Disclaimers: Only a very, very few of the characters herein belong to me - seriously.  However I can honestly say that story is all mine so.... If you’re still reading my stuff at this point, you pretty well know what you’re getting into.  If you don’t have an open mind, why exactly are you still reading?  If you do read it and you find something you think needs disclaiming, you are still more than welcome to let me know.  It won’t change anything, but it may make you feel better.   Ugliness will earn you a smack to the back of your head.

Thanks: To Phil and Mac for beta reading this for me.  They’ve picked up all kinds of dropped letters and missed quotation marks because Pink and Fluffy tend to leave a trail of them.  Their diligence is greatly appreciated.  Honestly I couldn’t ask for a better couple of women to beta read for me, and I am more grateful for them than they will ever know.  All errors belong strictly to me.

Author’s Notes: This multi-fandom comes to you courtesy of my friend and beta reader Phil, who asked for a simple, little five fandom crossover. Being the overachiever that I am, I went well beyond the original five, and this is the result. All the fandoms involved will be listed at the end of the story.

The Storyteller’s Cardinal Rule is in effect.

                                                                                 A Twist of Faete
                                                                                                                   By D

Prologue

The candlelight flickered as another cold wind blew through the cavern he was currently crouched in, but he smiled in satisfaction as the last charm snapped in place.  “Finally,” he grumbled.  “Finally, I have a way to take them all down and destroy them.  And when I’m done, there won’t be anyone left to worship... except me.”  His grin was demonic and harrowing, but his laughter was particularly bone chilling.  He lifted his hand nonchalantly and watched the bracelets rise with the motion.  With a wave, he banished them from his presence and nodded in satisfaction the next instant when they disappeared.  “Now all I need to do is to sit back and wait.”



Chapter I

It wasn’t the worst accommodation they had ever shared, but it certainly didn’t rank among the best either.  On the plus side, they were out of the storm, dry and relatively warm – that is to say… not completely frozen - and they were getting warmer by the moment.  Their clothing and the majority of their bedding would dry eventually.  For now, they were curled up naked together wrapped in the one dry fur they had salvaged.

Xena leaned down and brushed a kiss over the still wet blonde head as another shiver traveled through Gabrielle’s body.  “You feeling any warmer?”

Gabrielle jerked her head once sharply and burrowed further into Xena’s embrace.  “Y-yeah,” she whispered.  “At-t l-least it’s... n-not p-painful... anymore.”

“I wish we’d been able to build a fire.”

“N-not your f-fault... w-we w-were in the... m-middle of f-flat s-scrub... l-land with n-no s-shelter... in s-sight w-when the s-storm b-broke, Xe.  I’ll b-be... all right.  It j-just t-takes me a... little l-longer to w-warm up these d-days – you... know... that.”

“Doesn’t mean I don’t wish....”

“I... I know.  M-me too,” patting the warm chest over the strong heartbeat she could feel pulsing in her ear.  “B-but it... is w-what it... is.  Y-you’ve d-done all... you c-can for the m-moment.”  Gabrielle shifted slightly, snuggling her cold nose into Xena’s neck and licking lightly over the barely there mark she’d made earlier that was still visible to her glowing eyes... even in the darkness.  “W-when I get... a,... l-little w-warmer, we... we’ll s-see w-what we can d-do to t-take your... mmmind off... things.”

The raised eyebrow and patented smirk was apparent in her tone of voice.  “Maybe we should try to take my mind off things in an effort to get you warmer.  It’s never failed us before.”

Before Gabrielle could respond, the cavern lit up with an unearthly glow.  “Better listen to the Warrior Babe, Gabs.  I’m thinking she’s got a bitchin’ idea.  Love is always a rockin’ choice, and hot and heavy sex.... I mean – who doesn’t totally dig that??”

“Hello, Aphrodite,” Xena greeted dryly.  “What do you want?”

“Do I have to want something to come visit you two radically awesome chicks?” frowning when Xena and Gabrielle exchanged glances before turning to her with knowing expressions.  “Okay... fine,” she relented after only a few seconds.  She waved a hand, providing her with a comfortable place to sit and a bright, warm fire close to where Xena and Gabrielle were currently ensconced.  “Least I could do,” she replied to their unspoken question.

“So, what do you want?” Xena asked a little acerbically.  It bothered her more than a little that Aphrodite could provide Gabrielle with the warmth she needed with just a flick of her wrist.

“Xe,” Gabrielle chided lightly.  Then she leaned up to whisper in her ear.  “It c-can’t hurt to l-listen to her.”

“It’s gotten us into trouble every other time,” Xena commented wryly, then looked at Gabrielle’s warm expression.  She huffed an impatient breath.  “For you, my bard,” she growled.  “But if she asks to join us in a threesome....”

“... all b-bets are off.”  Gabrielle turned red-rimmed golden eyes towards Aphrodite.  “B-but she w-would n-never ask us s-something like that... would you, Dite?  Y-you would never j-jeopardize our f-friendship over something s-so p-personal to us, w-would you?”

“NO!  No, of course not!” she mumbled with a blush.  “Though I wouldn’t say no if you offered either.  I’m blonde, not stupid.”  She waved her hands before either of them could retort.  “So not the reason I’m here.”

“You gonna share that with us sometime this century?  Or are we supposed to guess?”

“Ya know, a little gratitude would go a long way here.”  Aphrodite glared at Xena, but the blue eyes held her gaze, and she snorted impatiently before looking away and meeting Gabrielle’s now green eyes.  “How do you put up with her?” waving her hands again.  “Doesn’t matter.  There is some radically uncool crap happening, and I need your fabulousness to totally find out what’s going on and who is, like, behind it.”

“You got proof?  Or just suspicions?”

“A little of both.”  Aphrodite sighed.  “More suspicion and speculation, but a little proof.  Something not-so-gnarly is happening to the gods.  All the gods... like worldwide.”

“And you know this how?”

Aphrodite shrugged.  “We talk, ya know.  It keeps us honest... to a point.  We tend not to, you know, cross boundaries or whatever.”

“So, what’s the word?” Gabrielle asked, finally warm enough to have lost the shivers and stuttering.

“It’s....”  Aphrodite shrugged and sighed.  “It’s weird.  You know... like totally bizzarro.  Let me start at the beginning.  Maybe you can, like, make sense of this.”  She conjured up a pair of glasses and a scroll. She unrolled the parchment and peered at them over the tops of her lenses before clearing her throat.  “So, um... ‘Once Upon a Time’....” glancing up to see two identical blank expressions staring back at her.  “Whaaaaat??” she whined.  “I thought that was the way all you gnarly bards started your stories.”  When their countenances didn’t change, she growled and returned her eyes to the scroll.  “Fine... whatever.  Don’t judge me.  Do you know your history?”

“Sure – which part?”

“No,” Aphrodite responded, glaring at them.  “Not your personal history, because DUH?  I mean your world history – the history of the gods.”

“We know enough to know….” Xena growled, but before she could continue her rant, Gabrielle interrupted.

“We know Gaia and Uranus created the Titans and that Zeus defeated the Titans to usher in the Olympian Pantheon.”

“I’ve heard a bit about a few of the Norse and Celtic gods and some about those from Chin,” Xena added, shaking her head silently when Gabrielle looked a question at her.  Gabrielle sighed and tucked her head back into Xena’s neck, knowing there wouldn’t be any answers from that direction any time in the near future.  “Why?”

“Because once, a long time ago, the world was a much different place.  And the gods….”  Aphrodite sighed.  “Once we were one world... one community... and everything had its place.  Light and darkness; yin and yang; strength and weakness; good and evil.  Everything existed in perfect balance and harmony.  Then evil got greedy and the world was thrown into Chaos.  When that happened, my great-grandparents – Gaia and Uranus – retired from the field of godhood, turning the ruling of the gods over to my grandfather Cronus and his siblings. Unlike the Titans, though, Gaia and Uranus still exist today on Olympus, but they mainly just watch the world going on around them.  They contribute very little to either the humans that once worshipped them or the family that tends to ignore their existence these days.”

“Okay, soooo...?” Gabrielle prodded when the silence started to lengthen.

Aphrodite pushed the glasses a little further up her nose and let her eyes refocus on the parchment.  “In the midst of the ensuing confusion and pandemonium, the Titans didn’t realize that a new threat had been awakened and let loose to prey not just on the human population, but the gods as well.  His name was Saligia, and greed was just the first indication of his presence on Earth.  It was because of him that Zeus slayed his father Cronus and assumed the role as King of the gods.  It was also because of him that the gods fractured – that we suddenly had Pantheons across the planet – each part of their own culture.”

“So, you’re saying it’s because of this Sal person that we have....”

“Sal introduced seven of the worst plagues possible into the world and made them part of our culture – humanity’s as well as the Pantheons.  He did far more damage than Pandora ever dreamed of causing.”

“He’s why her box was empty,” Xena stated flatly with an understanding look in Gabrielle’s direction.  Aphrodite just goggled at them.

“How did you...?  You know what? Nevermind.  I don’t wanna know.  But yeah, he is.”

“Okay, so what happened then?”

“This is where things get a little tricky – because there was obvious evidence of his presence, but we could never actually find him.  Not a flesh-and-blood incarnation anyway.  But we lost a significant amount of power then.  We always suspected he was behind it in an effort to coup the Pantheons.”

“You don’t think it was directed at anyone in particular?” Gabrielle asked.  Xena remained silent, but it was apparent from her demeanor that she was taking Aphrodite’s concerns seriously.

Aphrodite glanced up, gratified to see they were listening with due consideration.  “No... because we all suffered this major drop in power and influence.  It was, you know, disconcerting.”

“What happened?”

“I dunno.  Saligia didn’t disappear, but he seemed to mellow a bit, if you know what I mean.  He was always there in the background, but kind of like a noise that you’re not consciously aware of unless it’s suddenly gone.”

“Except he’s not gone, is he?”

Blonde curls shook vehemently at Aphrodite’s negative reply.  “Not even close – except....”

“Except what?”

“We can’t find him.  Evidence of his presence has always been on a slight ebb and flow, but it’s heightening again, and this time gods are disappearing.”

“Like literally?”

“Well, yeah – I mean, no.  I mean – it’s not like they’re dying or vanishing from being or whatever.  They’re just not gods anymore.”

“He’s sucking their powers?”

“That’s the consensus among the gods, yeah.”

“Do you have any reason to think he’s responsible aside from ancient history?” Xena spoke for the first time in a while.  Aphrodite shifted her attention and met Xena’s eyes seriously.

“No.  But it makes the most sense and what is totally scary is that all the Pantheons are on the same radical page about this.”  She watched the skepticism pass over Xena’s face and rushed to qualify her statement.  “I know we can be rash and petty and hateful, and we probably meddle with humans more than we should....”

“Probably?” Xena snarked.  Aphrodite huffed, but shrugged apologetically.

“Yeah, well, anyway....  The gods don’t really mess with each other outside of our own Pantheons unless we’re, like, forming alliances or, you know, stuff.  We’ve got enough to do trying to maintain our own gnarly biz.  I know I so don’t have time for much else.  Do you know how much radical work goes into a totally bitchin’ love match??”  She fanned herself.  “Makes me tired just thinking about it.”

“Back on point,” Xena instructed.  

Aphrodite growled.  “Hey, this isn’t my fault.  I’m just looking for a little help here.”

“We get that, Dite,” Gabrielle responded, laying a light hand on Aphrodite’s forearm.  “But we need the whole story and you’re kinda running in circles instead of making your point.  We need to hear everything you know or suspect.  Aside from all the Pantheons agreeing, why do you think this Sal guy is behind the gods disappearing?   And how is he doing it?”

“Saligia makes the most sense, because frankly, no one else has stepped up to claim responsibility.  And trust me – no one around this joint could keep that kind of secret. We all like to brag about our fabulousness.”

Xena nodded her acceptance of the statement without making a comment.  “Okay, so how’s he doing it?”

“We’re not sure. I mean, we have a few ideas, but we can’t find much of a common thread aside from the fact that it only really happens on the eve of the Day of the Dead.”

“When the veil between worlds is at its thinnest.”

“Um hmm... exactly.”

“How long has this been happening?”

“We don’t know.”

Xena sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose.  “Okay. What ideas do you have about how he’s doing this?”

“The best we can figure?  Enchanted talismans.”

“Why?  What makes you think that?”

“Again... it’s just a hunch.”

“Why not just avoid them?”

Aphrodite exhaled in frustration.  “If only.  We’re not even sure what they are.”  She held up a hand and closed her eyes, rubbing her forehead.  “Here’s the deal – each god this has happened to so far has received a symbol of their godhood shortly before their powers began waning.  They’ve all been among the offerings and they’re never found until the offering is accepted by the priest or priestess on behalf of the god or goddess in question.”

“What do they look like?”

“We’re not sure.”  She shrugged.  “They’ve all been different so far... at least as far as we can tell.  They seemed to be tailored to not only the god, but also the culture and Pantheon they belong to.  If we’ve guessed right about what they are, they’re not even made of the same material.  The only thing they have in common is their size and shape.  That’s what made us start noticing them to start with.”

“Which are?”

“Huh?  Oh… you mean the similarities.   Sorry.  It’s been a really crappy day around here lately.  Anyway, it’s about an inch square.”

Xena’s eyebrows went into her hairline.  “That’s it?”

Aphrodite nodded.  “That’s it.”

“And are they hidden within the offerings or blatantly laid on the altar?”

Aphrodite scrunched up her forehead in thought.  “I haven’t actually seen one before it’s been accepted.  The gods who have been affected just started sharing with the rest of us, and of course it’s been after the priests and priestesses have collected the bounty for the day.”

“So, the god in question doesn’t actually have to come into physical contact with the talisman.”

“I don’t think so,” Aphrodite replied.  “Do you think you can help?”  She paused a beat, then continued.  “I know we can be real assholes sometimes and we probably shouldn’t mess with you guys because we’re bored or playing games or whatever, right?  Because maybe you deserve better than being pawns or wagers.  But better the gods you know, right?  I mean, at least we kinda know and respect one another a little bit.  I’d totally help you guys out if positions were reversed.”

Xena and Gabrielle turned to one another, conversing silently while Aphrodite watched in fascination.  Finally, Xena sighed and kissed Gabrielle’s forehead before Gabrielle gave Aphrodite her attention.  “What exactly are you asking us to do, Dite?”

Aphrodite broke into grins and clapped her hands together in excitement.  “So, you’ll do it??  You’ll help me... us??”

“We can try.  Depends on what you want us to do.”

Aphrodite took a deep, calming breath.  “Oh.  Well, the best scenario for us would be that you get rid of Saligia and all those talismans we suspect he has.  Barring that?  Either option would be nice, but I think it might be easier to find the talismans than destroying Sal.”

“Why do you believe that?  This Sal person is just one man.”

“He’s more than a man.  I don’t know that he’s a god exactly, but he has the means to become one if he’s the one collecting the powers that are being lost.  Besides, he unleashed the seven plagues – there’s power back of him somewhere.”

“Do you have any idea where he is or how we can find him?”

“Notta clue, really – given the fact that he’s affecting all the Pantheons at once.  We’re not even sure what he looks like.”  She sighed.  “I know it’s not much to go on, and it’s a lot to ask, but I don’t know what else to do.  Given the Chaos he caused with his introduction, I’m not sure any of us will survive – humans or gods - if he’s successful in his coup.”

Gabrielle stared at Xena a long moment before she turned back to Aphrodite.  “We’ll do our best, Dite. That’s the best we can promise.  But you need to make sure the Pantheons need to know not to accept any more offerings until we can figure this out.  And that’s likely to take a while.”

“It’s more than I hoped for.”  She kissed them both briefly on the lips before shimmering out of sight.  “Thanks, you guys!  You totally rock!”

They gazed at one another in silence for a full minute after the rose petals settled on the floor around them.  Then they reclined in the warmth now completely surrounding them, and began making tentative plans to find Saligia.


Chapter II

Word spread quickly between the Pantheons, and soon offerings were being left to molder and ruin until they could be combed through thoroughly to weed out anything that could be considered a talisman.  That, of course, created even more issues - the largest obstacle being that it could not be an acolyte or priest of the god for whom the talisman was intended who found it as that was construed as acceptance.  There was a shuffling of acolytes between Pantheons and gods in an effort to prevent the talismans from activating accidentally, which caused any amount of heartache and discontent.

Xena and Gabrielle tried to collect the talismans as they were discovered in their travels, though it was extremely difficult... especially given the trials and tribulations they suffered through during their journey.  And those difficulties made them overlook the influences the talismans exerted over them both.  They didn’t even recognize their anger and wrath until it was almost too late.

Hope pulled them off track for a long time and they were months recovering the faith and trust they’d had between them.  When Gabrielle took Hope into the pit, Xena lost sight of everything for a very long time.  It wasn’t until Aphrodite admitted to saving Gabrielle and telling Xena where to start looking that Xena remembered their task; she resumed collecting the talismans as they surfaced.  They were coming less and less often and Xena chanced to wonder if Saligia had discovered their activities or if there just weren’t that many left.  Then she found Gabrielle in Potadeia and everything else went to the wayside for just a little while, even as things continued to bubble and ferment just under the surface.

There were a few talismans in India – not as many as she expected, but enough to assure them both that Saligia was still busy at whatever game he was playing.  Their lusts and desires increased exponentially but it wasn’t really talked about... much like their Bacchae natures. It was simply something they enjoyed to the point of over-indulgence.  Then came their crucifixions and months of anger and distrust and frustrations after Eli revived them.  A few more lesser gods were lost, but Xena couldn’t bring herself to care and neither could Gabrielle.  They had far more important – and selfish – things to focus on... until everything between them exploded and nearly destroyed them.

It was when Gabrielle lay recovering after being healed from the debilitating head wound Xena had inflicted that Xena began recounting their journey in her mind… from the moment things had started going so wrong for them.  Every instance of increased anger; of greater selfishness; of intensified greed; of augmented hatred; of amplified pride or desire or jealousy – every single incident could be traced back to the discovery of another significant talisman placed in their possession.  Then she thought back to Aphrodite’s words to them years before – about the plagues Saligia had released and how they had been meant for gods and man.  And she realized that though each of the curses resided in mankind now as a matter of course, the talismans enhanced their effects exponentially.

But instead of calling for Aphrodite and railing at her for putting her – them – in such an untenable position, Xena traced Gabrielle’s face with the back of her fingertips, leaning forward and murmuring apologies that only she could hear.  She let a single teardrop roll down her cheek and drip onto Gabrielle’s lips before she leaned forward and brushed a kiss over her forehead.

“I’m sorry, Gabrielle.  So, so sorry,” she whispered.  “If I could turn back time and do things differently....”  Then Xena turned abruptly, jerking the pouch holding the talismans from the saddlebags and striding out the door into the stormy darkness.  She never saw the tears that leaked from Gabrielle’s still closed eyes.

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

Xena stood in the center of the courtyard, letting the rain wash over her until it wasn’t cold any more.  Then she tied the pouch to her armor, clutching her chakram in her left hand and raising her sword high in her right.    Then she lifted her voice to the heavens... and bellowed.

“SALIGIA!!”

There was no sound beyond the rumble of thunder for several long minutes, but Xena waited patiently.  She knew he would come to her on this day of all days... especially when he realized the power she held in her hands.  She nudged the pouch gently, allowing the talismans to jingle together, and within seconds a figure started to form in front of her.

He wasn’t attractive – not to Xena’s way of thinking anyway – though it was obvious by his expression that he was a very vain individual.  He maintained a completely dry circle around him and looked her up and down with disdain, unimpressed by her appearance.  Then she jingled the pouch again and his eyes widened when he recognized exactly what had conjured his physical presence.  His round, double-chinned face grew purple with apocalyptic rage.

“YOU!!!” he screeched.  “YOU’RE THE REASON MY WORK HASN’T REACHED FRUITION!!!”

Xena gave him a half-smirk and shrugged.  “Yeah... what about it?”

“WHAT ABOUT IT?!?  DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOU’VE DONE???”

Her eyes narrowed and turned to ice.  “Not nearly what you did... or what I’m going to.  The suffering you’ve caused....”

“Oh blah blah blah and boo hoo.  I’m no worse than the cancers known as gods that you pathetic creatures worship.  And at least I offer some fun.”

“Fun?!” Xena mocked.  “Really??  You call what you did to the world fun??”

“Well, yes.  It was all rather boring before.”

“I see,” Xena replied as she dropped her sword to rest on her shoulder and started walking around him.  He spun to keep her within his sight and frowned when he realized she was dripping into his dry sphere of existence.  She pretended not to notice and continued her circle.  “What are the talismans for?”

“You mean you don’t know?” asked slyly.  “I expected you to know, given that you’ve been collecting them for years by the sound of it.”  He reached a hand forward and she swatted at him lazily, grinning when he jerked his hand back and cradled it protectively.  “You cut me!!” he wailed when black blood flowed sluggishly from the wound.

“Yep.  And I’ll do it again if you try putting those hands where they don’t belong.”

“But those things... those talismans – they belong to me.”

Xena snorted.  “Not anymore they don’t.  Finders keepers and all that.”

“But they’re MINE!!!”

“You got rid of them – gave them away.  I found them.  Therefore, they’re mine now.”

Saligia smiled craftily.  “And how’s that working out for you, my dear?  I created them – I know the power they possess and the purpose they were intended for.  They can’t give you anything that’s not already there, but they can enhance your desires to the point of insanity – to make everything else in your life lose its importance.  Tell me... have they driven you mad yet?”

Xena let every single negative emotion she could feel come to the forefront of her mind, then she turned wild eyes in Saligia’s direction.  “I dunno, Sal – what do you think??” raising her sword and taking a swipe at him.  He screeched when a lock of his curly hair fell to the ground and realized with a touch that she had shaven him almost to bare skin on one side of his face.

“HAVE YOU LOST YOUR MIND???  WHAT DO YOU THINK...??” screaming again when she did the same to the other side of his face.

Xena chuckled lowly.  “You asked.  I just thought I’d demonstrate.”

Saligia held up his hands in surrender and stepped back a pace, dismayed when Xena followed as a matter of course.  “I can help.  Just give me the pouch and you’ll be back to normal.”

“Yeah... no.  ‘Cause see... if I give these back to you, it won’t remove the plagues you left.  It’ll just mean you go back to killing gods.”

He shrugged.  “Why do you care?  You don’t worship them - it’s not like you even believe in them.  So what difference if I rid the world of them and take their followers for my own.  We’ll have fun....”

“Until you destroy the world.”

“Oh, pish posh.  Again... why do you care?  You won’t be around when it happens.  Humans aren’t cursed with the boredom of immortality.”

Something flashed through Xena’s eyes then, but it was gone so quickly, Saligia didn’t even notice it.  She sneered at him.  “Doesn’t matter.  Mankind deserves the right to choose for itself – not rely on the whims of some bored immortal being.”

“Aren’t you already subject to the whims of bored immortals?  You can’t tell me they don’t interfere in your life – we wouldn’t be here otherwise.  Because those talismans?” gesturing to her waist.  “They were meant for them... not you.”

“Perhaps.  But their powers will wane and wax according to mankind’s beliefs and choices – not because some punk wannabe wants to be more than he is.”

“Punk wannabe??  Do you know who you’re talking to??

“Yeah – I’m talking to the punk wannabe that tried stealing the powers of the gods with subterfuge and trickery.  You think you can win in a straight up fight with a real warrior?” mocking him and swinging her sword again.  She grinned maliciously when she left a reverse Mohawk across the top of his skull.  He screamed again and drew a sword from within his robes.

“Prepare to die, Mortal.  I have nothing to fear from you!”  Then he swung and found his sword caught and held in her hand and his eyes widened.

“Maybe not yet, you don’t,” she challenged and shoved him away from her.  She licked the blood from her hand and felt her incisors elongate and her eyes flash.  “But you will.”

Saligia recognized in that moment that Xena was both more and less than he expected.  And he knew he was in trouble when keeping up was a problem.

Saligia lost his protected circle almost immediately and had to adjust to the storm that surrounded them.  Back and forth they went, neither gaining nor losing ground, though he got the distinct feeling he was being toyed with.  He spared a thought to wish for some kind of power to defeat this inhuman woman who stood in front of him when she hesitated.

Saligia grinned at what he perceived to be a weakness he could exploit, and swung with every ounce of strength he had left.  He had no way of knowing what his actions were going to cause.

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

Xena was focused on her fight with Saligia – despite the despair she felt, she didn’t intend to lose.  She had things to do that didn’t involve some half-wit upstart.  Aside from not wanting to owe Ares anything, she needed time with Gabrielle to fix all that was wrong between them.  So she was focused on defeating him while she exorcised some of the rage she could feel coursing through her veins – which at the moment involved allowing him to wear himself out until she was ready to destroy him.

Then she heard Gabrielle call her name softly, and she hesitated.  Without warning, Saligia aimed for her neck, knowing even a Bacchae couldn’t survive decapitation.  Almost immediately, she felt Gabrielle’s touch on her hips and she moved her sword with lightning speed to block his blow.  His blade slid off hers and hit the pouch, knocking it from her waist and causing the talismans to scatter.

It was all the distraction Xena needed.

With a mighty roar, she swung, hitting Saligia in the jugular and following through across his neck and spine with a clean, smooth slice.  But instead of his head falling to the ground and his body toppling over unsteadily, a bright light blinded them and they were forced to look away.  When they opened their eyes again, the talismans were gone and only his sword and the sound of his laughter remained of Saligia.

Xena stepped forward and the sword shimmered as Saligia spoke.  “Oh Xena... don’t you know you can never defeat me?  I am ingrained in the fabric of the world.  It may take a while, but we will meet again, my dear.  And when we do, I shall emerge victorious.”  The sound of laughter rolled as the shimmer faded, then a bright flash followed, removing the sword from their purview.  Xena and Gabrielle remained still for a moment longer, then Gabrielle clenched her hands on Xena’s waist.

“We need to talk.”

“We do... I know we do, Gabrielle.  But I think we need to take care of this first.  Wait... hear me out,” Xena asked, turning to face Gabrielle, but allowing her to choose their distance.  Gabrielle didn’t move closer, but she didn’t move further away either and Xena breathed a sigh of relief.  “You need to feed and you need some more time to heal.  But we also need to send some scrolls.”

Blonde eyes went into an equally blonde hairline.  “Huh?”

Xena smiled briefly, then it fell.  “What happened... what’s been happening....  Gabrielle, I know I’ve made some bad mistakes.”

“We both have.”

“No... not like....”  She stopped when Gabrielle held up a hand.  “Okay, yeah, we’ve both made mistakes.  But things seemed to snowball and get worse every time we picked up a new talisman.  Even our good adventures had undertones of uncontrolled emotion.”

Gabrielle nodded slowly.  “Okay – so what do you want to do?”

“I think we need to set up some kind of avant-garde – people that will keep an eye out for the talismans... who will collect them and keep them safe.”

“You think it’s necessary?”

“Yeah.  You heard him – we’re gonna meet again.  I just don’t think we should be the ones looking for those things anymore.  It’s been killing us, Gabrielle... tearing us apart.  You can’t tell me you don’t feel the difference in having them gone.”

“I do.”

Xena clasped her hands and brought them to her lips, brushing them with kisses and bathing them with her tears.  “I can’t.... Gabrielle, if we ever made a conscious decision to not be together anymore – it would be your choice.  I made my choice years ago when I offered you a bedroll outside of Amphipolis.  That hasn’t changed despite everything – madness, anger, disappointment or misunderstandings.  But those talismans...  they were meant to destroy gods, Gabrielle.  They were destroying us.”

Gabrielle leaned forward and kissed Xena’s forehead, causing both of them to close their eyes in benediction.

“All right, Xe.  We’ll feed, then you can write out the scrolls.  I think you’ll need one for each Pantheon, so seven? Eight?”  She shrugged.  “We’ll figure it out and then ask Aphrodite to deliver them.  We’ve still got some things to talk about and you’re right – I still need some time to heal.  But we’ll get through this.”

“I love you, Gabrielle.”

Gabrielle leaned forward again, this time meeting Xena’s lips with her own and allowing her incisors to scrape across the fleshy part of her lips.  Xena moaned and felt her incisors lengthen when the coppery scent of blood filled her senses.

“Take me to bed, Xena.  Tomorrow will be soon enough to worry about Saligia and talismans and avant-gardes.  Tonight is for us.”

“Tonight and every night... for as long as we live, my bard.”

It would be a very, very long time before they ever discussed Saligia again.


Chapter III

“Dinah, are you certain you should do this?”  Barbara held up a hand to stave off her immediate answer.  “I know you’re strong, but this seems a lot like tempting fate.”

“I’ll be fine,” offering Barbara a smile as she tucked her hair behind her ear.  “You saw Helena strengthen my barriers before we came here, and I haven’t had any problems.  Besides, we see real monsters every day.  I don’t think any of this is truly authentic; I think it’s a bit of fun the locals put on for tourists to make a little money.”

“You sure you don’t want to go, Red?” Helena asked with a hint of longing.

Barbara pinched the bridge of her nose.  She knew Helena meant well, but she was fast developing a headache.  She released a breath slowly, then looked up at Helena with a smile.  “I’m sure, Kitten.  I don’t have any desire to go rolling up and down the road in the dark, and I’m pretty sure the cemetery isn’t made for people like me.  And no... you’re not going to carry me, so don’t even ask.  Besides, I’m going to be downstairs with the caterers setting up food and drinks for the party when you guys get back.”

Dinah’s eyes brightened.  “Oh yeah... did you see the menu they’re bringing in?  It’ll be better than Pop-tarts.”

“Watch it,” Helena growled.  “Nothing’s better that Pop-tarts.”

Barbara grinned slyly, though she couldn’t stop the blush than ran up her face at the thought running through her mind.  “Really, Hel?  Nothing?”

Helena leered at her.  “Nothing I’m willing to share with the Kid.”

“GUYS!” Dinah cried as she clapped her hands over her ears and slammed her eyes closed.  Helena took the opportunity to kiss Barbara fast but thoroughly.  She pulled back, licking her lips, then pulled Dinah’s hands from her ears.

“Let’s go, Kid.  Time to find some ghosts to scare.”

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

“This should be fun,” Kara whispered to Diana as they stepped onto the elevator together.  “I’ve never done anything like this before.”

Diana grinned.  “That’s because you fight real scaries on a regular basis.  But yeah,” she agreed as the door slid open, and they crossed into the lobby of the Bourbon Orleans Hotel.  “It should be entertaining at least.  I’m glad we’re going in small groups, though.  At least we should be able to anticipate any funny business they’ve got planned.”

Kara frowned.  “You think there’ll be funny business?” pulling her glasses down just slightly and scanning the room over the rims.

“I think it is all good fun, and if they can do things to scare folks, well... that would just make it a better experience, right?  Either way, we’re going to have a good time.”  She looked up and nodded, then ushered Kara toward Xena and Gabrielle.  “C’mon.  We should be starting soon.”

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

Emma was standing next to Gabrielle, hands tucked in her jeans as she scuffed her foot along the floor.  She was a little embarrassed that her parents thought she needed a minder - she was fifteen years old, after all - but she really wanted to go on this tour.  So, she kept her mouth shut and waited for her mother to finish talking.  While she was waiting, she felt Carter come up behind her, barely touching her arm to let her know of his presence without scaring her.  She smiled bashfully and knew he was doing the same in return.  She wasn’t surprised to hear Cat Grant speak into the silence that followed her approach.

“Are you sure you don’t mind keeping an eye on Carter, Xena?  He really wants to do this tour, but I’ve got so much....”  She stopped talking when Xena held up her hand - a fact that still surprised her whenever it happened.  Cat was used to being one of, if not the most important person in the room.  But she knew well enough to recognize when she wasn't and naturally deferred to the one who was.  She waited for Xena to speak.

“I promise you, he’s in good hands, Ms Grant.  We’ll look after him like he was ours,” Xena said, giving Carter a wink.  He smiled.  They had only been here a couple days, but he already liked Xena and Gabrielle, and, of course, Emma and her family.  He looked at his mother, and grinned when she nodded her head and gave him a fond smile.

“All right.  You all have a good time.  Thank you, ladies.”  She turned to Carter, who reluctantly gave her a quick hug.   “I’ll see you later, Carter.  Have a good time, okay?”

“I will, Mom.  Thanks.”  She strode off without a backwards look.  Olivia and Natalia stepped up beside Emma.  

“Same goes for you, Bean.  Don’t get into any trouble, all right?  And have a good time.”

“I will, Mom.  You and Ma enjoy your dinner.”

Olivia brushed a kiss across her forehead, then stepped aside for Natalia to do the same.  “We’ll see you when you get back, Jellybean.  Love you.”

“Love you too, Ma.”  Then she shooed them away.  “Go... have fun.  We’ve got this,” motioning to the circle of people around her.  They laughed and Olivia and Natalia walked away with smiles on their faces.

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

Catherine nudged Sara with her elbow.  “What do you think?  Is it all going to be fake like the haunted house we go to in Vegas?”

Sara smirked.  “I think it’ll be a little better.  New Orleans has had time to get this down to a science, after all.  But yeah... I’m pretty skeptical of the validity of the whole spirit thing.”

“Careful, Sugar,” Wendy deliberately drawled like her half-sister.  “To hear Nikki tell it, this stuff is real.”

“So, you believe in this stuff?”

“Let’s just say I’ve seen enough not to dismiss it out of hand.”

Sara shook her head. “I think it’ll make for some good stories to share with the guys when we get home, but other than that....”

“Other than that, there’s fantastic food waiting for us at the first two stops, and I for one intend to eat my fill.” Gail Peck said with a smile as she looked around at the Vegas contingent. “Good evening, ladies,” greeting the group to which she’d already been introduced.  “Have any of you seen my better half?  She promised to meet me down here, but I’ve been round the room twice and have yet to spot her.”

“Your girlfriend - ‘bout my height, brown hair and eyes, oblong glasses, and talks like a nerd?” A gravelly voice spoke from behind her.  Gail whirled to find one of the triplets - as she’d come to calling the three women that looked so similar they should have been - and tilted her head to meet a woman twinkling brown eyes and her hand extended.  “Jane Rizzoli.”

“Gail Peck.  And yeah... how’d you know?”

“Because mine caught yours and a Claire Washburn and a Temperance Brennan in a discussion about coronary arial psoriasis and autopsies or something.  I figured I’d let them... do their thing until the tours start.  It’s not like I was getting one word in ten anyway, and we may not all end up in the same group together.”

Gail nodded.  “So, what do you do, Jane Rizzoli?”

“I’m a trainer with the FBI in the Boston office,” tucking her hands under her arms.  “You?”

“I’m a Constable Second Class in Toronto.”

“You like it?”

Gail shrugged.  “I like being a training officer.  Not quite as crazy about walking a beat.  But you do what needs to be done, right?”

Jane smiled.  “Yeah.  I felt the same.  I was so happy the day I got my gold shield... mostly because it got me out of that uncomfortable uniform.”

Gail made a face.  “Yeah... not a big fan of those either.  It’s like they deliberately made them as ugly and uncomfortable as they can just to make us miserable.  But I’m also not sure becoming a white shirt is the right career path for me.”

Jane nodded.  “It’s not for everyone, that’s for sure.”  She looked up as her name was called.  “Looks like they’re splitting us into groups.”  She held out her hand.  “It was nice to meet you, Constable.”

“Just Gail,” she said, accepting Jane’s hand.  “It was my pleasure.  Maybe we can talk again later?”

Jane smiled and nodded her head.  “I’ll look forward to it.  See you,” she said as she moved to catch up to Maura.  Gail watched her go, then smiled when she saw Holly coming her way.

“Making friends?” Holly asked as she approached.  Gail took her hand and twined their fingers together.  

“Maybe,” she said with a sly smile.  “Are you done geeking out for a while?  I’m hungry.”

Holly rolled her eyes, then tugged her towards the entrance where their group was standing.  “C’mon, you heathen.  We’re in the next group to leave.  I’m sure there’ll be plenty for you to eat along the way.”

Gail leaned in and tucked her nose into Holly’s neck.  “Omnomnom,” she muttered, causing Holly to blush and laugh out loud.  The rest of their group smiled, and they made their way out the door.

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

Xena and Gabrielle watched as the groups slowly made their way out of the lobby and into the night.  They hadn’t expected quite the overwhelming response they’d gotten for the tour, and as a result, had ended up breaking the larger group into several smaller ones to accommodate their needs.  Nikki and Nora had called on some of their friends to lead the other tours, though suspiciously, none of them was Darius.  Xena and Gabrielle both had recognized him as fae and figured he was going to provide some of the more special effects they anticipated seeing.  Xena particularly wished she knew what he was doing - she wanted to have a little fun on her own... especially since all the superheroes were part of their group.  Still, she knew she’d be able to figure out something - she’d learned to think on her feet a long time ago.

They watched as Nora took the next to the last group, and turned back to Nikki who was smiling at them.  “All righty, y’all.  I think most of you know me, but just to be sure, my name is Nikki Beaumont, and I’m going to be your tour guide tonight.  For the record, I was born and raised here in the Big Easy, and I have done this before - I am a certified tour guide here in New Orleans.  We actually put together this tour specifically for the conventions, and we will be the only ones out there tonight, because we mixed up two or three other tours to choose the spots we wanted to take you.”  She looked around at the group, noting excitement, skepticism and humor among the women standing in front of her.  She grinned.  “C’mon, y’all.  Let me show you a part of New Orleans most people never get to see.”

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

“Our first stop is the Omni Hotel,” she said as the stepped inside the building, leading them into a conference room that was set up with several choices of bite-sized desserts and some craft beers and wines.  There were a number of comfortable chairs and couches scattered around the room, and she encouraged them to help themselves to food and beverages before taking a seat.  Kara spied the chocolate pecan pie, and made a beeline in that direction even as Helena started towards the raspberry white chocolate cheesecake.  Alex and Maggie figured out the snickerdoodle creme brûlée was a safe bet in the meantime, and soon everyone else was following in their wake.  They descended like a horde of locusts, and Xena and Gabrielle watched with amusement as the staff scrambled to keep up - none of the other groups had been quite so ravenous, and they had expected much the same from this group as well.

Nikki let them go for a few minutes, enjoying the beer she’d chosen, and observing with delight the enjoyment she could see around the room.  She was thrilled to know these women she called friends were happy to be in her hometown.  She spied Darius just beyond the doorway, and he nodded shortly to let her know he was ready whenever she was.  Because despite the reality of ghosts in these buildings and her hometown in general, ghosts could be rather stubborn creatures, and she wanted to guarantee that these women - all of them - were able to experience some of its more fantastic aspects for themselves.  She didn’t ask, and he didn’t tell, but Darius had enlisted a few of his friends to ‘go along’ with each group to ensure there were at least a few paranormal sightings.  Though she didn’t understand why, Nikki just knew with him being there, their chances had increased dramatically.

With a shrill whistle, she brought silence to the room, then looked around with a smile.  “I’m so glad you ladies decided to join me tonight for our little tour.  I know a number of you are skeptics, and I really can’t blame you.  You’re all women that require facts and proof in your jobs - it’s what makes you good at what you do. But I promise you that what you’re going to see tonight is real.  Every place we’re going to visit has documented ghosts and paranormal activity.  Some of the ghosts are fun and playful; a few are mischievous.  But some?”  She shook her head.  “Some are downright terrifying.”  She looked up with a teasing grin.  “I know you don’t believe me now, but I guarantee you’ll be singing a different tune when this is all over.”

She looked around the room again, noting she had their rapt attention, even amongst the skeptics.  She dropped her voice until it was little more than a whisper.  “I have it on good authority that several of the ghosts that should be present at our host hotel - the Bourbon Orleans - have temporarily vacated the premises due to the presence of some of the more… formidable members of our gathering,” drawing laughter from around the room with many covert looks in Xena and Gabrielle’s direction.  “That’s kind of a shame, because I was really hoping to introduce you all to the smoking man… or the lonely dancer.”

“Wait… what smoking man?”

Nikki whirled, not expecting the interruption… especially from the woman who reminded her more of a human puppy more than anything else.  She took a couple steps, moving her closer to where several groups of women were clustered closer together.  “What’s your name, Sugar?”

A nervous hand pushed a pair of glasses up her nose and continued on to sweep back an errant lack of hair.  “Oh… um, me?” waiting for Nikki to nod.  “I’m Kara… Kara Danvers.”

Nikki took her hand, surprised it wasn’t ice cold by the way the other woman was reacting.  She clasped the hand she held and tugged Kara toward her gently.  “Tell me, Kara Danvers - what did you see?”

Kara shoved up her glasses again.  “Oh… just….”  She sucked in a deep breath and tried again.  “I was down in the lobby this morning early, and there was a man there.”  She frowned as she thought back on the encounter.  “I didn’t think anything of it; I-I mean… p-people read papers and smoke cigars before breakfast, right?”  She giggled nervously and adjusted her glasses again.

Nikki looked at her seriously.  “Could you describe him?  Describe what he was wearing?”

“Uh… yeah, yeah.  He was wearing a three-piece suit.”  She scrunched up her brow as she called up the memory.  “He had a weird looking tie… you know, the kind that kind of folds over instead of knots?” biting her lip while her eyes darted back and forth.  “He was reading a Times-Picayune, but he had a couple more tossed on the seat beside him.  I noticed it because it was… weird.  They were….”  She glanced down at her feet before looking back into Nikki’s brown eyes and shaking her head..  “I haven’t really seen them around here.”

Nikki nodded sagely and prompted softly.  “Did you speak?  Or rather… did he speak to you?”

“Um… sorta?” Kara hedged.  She would have been twisting them together if Nikki hadn’t been holding them.  “I said ‘Good morning’; he kinda grumbled back at me… something about the state of the world today.”  She shrugged.  “I didn’t really… I mean, a lot of people do the same thing, like… all. the. time.  When he didn’t look up from his newspaper, I just went upstairs to get ready for the day.”

Nikki squeezed her hand briefly and grinned.  “Congratulations, Sugar!  You met the smoking man.  He’s one of the most consistent apparitions in our hotel.”

Kara beamed as Nikki released her grip.  “Really?” she asked, excitement clear in her gaze.  “That is so cool!”

Her enthusiasm was contagious, and the women clapped and cheered as she returned to stand next to Diana.  “So…” Nikki said as the noise died down and she looked around the room.  “We’ve already had one ghostly encounter.  What about the rest of you, hmm?  Has anyone seen the dancing lady? Or the Confederate soldier? Or the kissing bandit?”  She waited, but no one stepped up to confess.  She smiled.  “That’s okay… we’ve got all weekend, and odds are, we’ll run into some of our haunters tonight.  After all, we do love a good show here, and everybody loves to show off,” garnering more laughter from her group.

“Now,” she continued without missing a beat, “here at the Omni Royale, the most famous….”  Before she could continue, the lights flickered three times before settling into complete darkness.  The staff, who had stepped in to begin their cleanup, simply reached to their sides and removed flashlights from the holsters that were attached to their belts.  They snapped them on and continued their work in the eerie glow.  

“As I was saying,” Nikki spoke into the strange light, gathering the attention of her group slowly, “The most famous ghost here in the Omni Royale is the 18th century maid who lives on the second floor.  She tucks guests into bed, runs baths… even flushes the toilet.  However,” she motioned around her, “as you can see she’s not the only one.  Many of the ghosts that live here like to play with the lights and follow guests around the property.”  

She saw Helena Kyle, Kara Danvers, and Diana Prince clap their hands over their ears at the same instant Dinah Lance tilted her head and shook it, as though to rid herself of a buzzing annoyance.  It only lasted a moment, but it was long enough to catch Nikki’s attention.  The very next second, the lights came back on and the staff grabbed their flashlights and shoved them back into their holsters without even a pause in their work.  Nikki looked around and saw Darius giving her a thumbs-up and she turned back to the women now watching her with more interest and slightly less skepticism.

“What do y’all say to moving on to our next location?”  The women gathered quickly, not wanting to miss anything.  They looked around carefully as they exited the conference room and stepped back into the lobby.  The lights flickered again, though they didn’t go out again, and a gasp went up from the group as they saw an ethereal woman pass through them as though they weren’t even there.

Nikki didn’t stop but led them outside and toward their next stop - the Hotel Monteleone.


Chapter IV

They stepped into the lobby and through to the convention room that had been reserved for them.  Nikki noted that Kara and Helena were a little slower to move toward the food that had been set out this time, though the rest descended upon the numerous bar bites snacks that had been chosen for this venue.  Alex Danvers noted that her sister didn’t even give the potstickers a look, which was so unusual that she released her girlfriend’s hand and, with a whispered word in Maggie’s ear, made her way to stand beside Kara.

“Hey,” she greeted, frowning when Kara tilted her head slightly to glance at Alex with an unhappy expression.  She grabbed her by the shoulders and turned her so their eyes could meet fully.  “You all right?”

Kara shook her head.  “There is a high-pitched….”  She shook her head again.  “It’s gone again,” she smiled.  

“Again?  Is that why you grabbed your ears earlier?”

“Yeah… it was… unpleasant.”

Alex nodded and looked around, seeing the other women that had reacted similarly to Kara, finally moving towards the refreshment tables.  “You feeling better?  Ready for some potstickers?”

“Always,” Kara confirmed. “Though I also want to try the crab and crawfish beignets, and maybe the po’ boys and the turnovers, and the….”

Alex laughed and took Kara by the elbow, leading her toward the tables.  “I get it.  You’re feeling better, and you’re starving… again.”

Kara would have pushed her sister, but they both would have fallen over.  Besides, Alex had told the truth - she was starving.  Instead, she laughed and pulled them closer to the table, stopping to grab Maggie’s hand and drag her with them.

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

Xena and Gabrielle watched their antics with a hint of a smile before turning back to one another.  “Are we going to say something to Darius?” Gabrielle asked.  “I don’t think Nikki knows the truth of his fae heritage, but Helena, Kara, and Diana are sensing it, and I fear for him… if Helena especially figures it out.  Despite her maturity, she has little tolerance for what she would perceive as him making a fool of her.”

“We’ll keep an eye out.  He hasn’t really done much… yet… aside from emitting that infernal pitch,” Xena growled, rubbing her ear.  “It just makes the women more susceptible to Nikki’s stories.  They’re lucky they can’t hear it.”

“Even through the earplugs?” Gabrielle asked.

Xena nodded miserably.  “Yes.  If I’d thought he was gonna do something like this, I’d have brought the industrial strength ones instead of relying on the over-the-counter kind.”

“At least they block the worst of it.  We’re not hearing what the supers are.  Maybe we should share?”

“I’ll take care of it,” Xena frowned.  “His antics have kept me from playing with them a little bit.  A little teasing is one thing, especially since I’m pretty sure Helena and Diana, at least, kinda expect it, but I can’t do that if he’s causing them actual discomfort.  The only reason I didn’t duct tape his mouth shut is the earplugs.  Can’t guarantee the others won’t if they figure it out before we get done with this tour, and without them to block some of that noise.…”  She lifted her chin.  “Looks like Nikki is ready to start.”  She slid up beside Diana and whispered in her ear, covering the hand the lifted automatically at her request.  Diana smiled when she realized what Xena had given her.  She put her own set in with relief and indicated she would take care of the rest of the superheroes in their midst.

Nikki stepped to the front of the room.  “Everybody getting plenty to eat?” she asked, chuckling when various foods and beverages were lifted in her direction.  “Great!” she cheered.  “The Monteleone has some of the best bar food in the Quarter.  Now let me tell you about some of the ghosts that reside here.”  At that moment, the sound of jazz music could be heard as well as the echoes of singing.  Nikki gestured around the room.  “The jazz singer is one of the most popular apparitions here; her music has been enjoyed for decades.  She is usually accompanied by the original owner, but you’re only aware of him if you see her… not if you simply hear her.”  The music faded away, but before Nikki could continue, it resumed, only louder and more mournful than it had been.  They listened for a long moment, looking around in the hopes of spotting the elusive singer.  Without warning, the music stopped and the lights went out, but before the women could even react, they flickered back on.  “Well,” Nikki said, looking around the room.  “I guess she wanted to make sure y’all noticed her before we left.  Fortunately, we haven’t seen the masked man.  He nearly made my eyes bleed… running around in his all-together like that,” causing the women to howl in laughter at her horrified expression.  “I’m guessing his Mama didn’t teach him better… especially since his all-together wasn’t all that impressive.  My Grandmere would have walloped my behind but good for showing out my ass like that!” causing the room to break into laughter again.  “As we leave, y’all take a look at the grandfather clock in the lobby.  There is a clockmaker that tends to it all hours of the day and night.  If we’re lucky, he’ll show up for us.  He’s here a lot, but he’s a little unpredictable in when and how he appears.”

“Nikki?” a voice called out, and she turned to meet Penelope Garcia’s eyes, curious as to the sadness she could read in them.  

She tilted her head in question.  “Penelope?”

She shook her head and wiped at her eyes to hide the tears.  “Are there children here?”

“There are several,” Nikki confirmed.  “The two most famous are a little girl who will come up and hold your hand momentarily before she turns away and disappears.  The boy named Maurice lives on the 14th floor, and he’s searching for his parents.  They died suddenly while they were all staying here, and his parents weren’t with him when it happened.  There are a few others, but they seem to go in and out throughout the lobby area.” She looked where Garcia’s attention seemed to be focused and swallowed hard when she saw a little girl that disappeared even as she watched.  She shook her head; she wasn’t supposed to seeing apparitions like that… wondering a little too late if she shouldn’t have left well enough alone and not relied on Darius to help her out.  She cleared her throat.  “Anyone else?”  She nodded firmly when no one spoke up.  “All righty then… time to head to the cemetery.”

Helena hung back, grabbing Diana by the wrist.  Diana looked down but met Helena’s gold eyes without flinching.  “Something is going on here… besides this tour.  Someone’s playing with us.”

Diana tilted her head.  “Are you certain?”

Helena cocked a disbelieving eyebrow at the question but nodded tersely.  “Yeah.  Whatever that sound is?  Yeah… it’s not human.  Besides, something is setting off the Kid’s squick meter, and we both know if this was just a fun, little squeeze to make some money from the tourists, it wouldn’t even register for her.  Not with the shields she’s got up.  We strengthened them deliberately before we came here.  Gotham isn’t as haunted as this place is rumored to be, and it’s still draining for her some days.  This?  Yeah… it was the only way she could come.”

Diana covered the hand that still held her wrist.  “Here,” she said placing two pairs of earplugs in her palm, and smiling at Helena’s unspoken question.   “A gift from Xena.  It won’t block it all, but it will make it more bearable.  Meanwhile, we’ll keep an eye out.  Aside from that unpleasant sound, have you seen anything that…?”

Before she could finish her question, Xena and Gabrielle came up beside her.  “Is everything all right?” noting the gold flash of Helena’s eyes.  They watched as the younger took a deep breath, having learned not to snap out an impatient answer.  Diana patted her hand.

“We’re not sure, Consort.  We think someone is playing with us, but we haven’t decided if it’s all in good fun or something more… malevolent in the works.  Thanks for the plugs.  I need to make sure Kara has hers.”

Helena wanted to ask, but instead turned back to Xena and Gabrielle.  “Thanks,” she said, holding up the hand that held Dinah’s earplugs.  “I should go find D before that sound starts again.”  She rubbed her ear.  “Can’t say I’m a fan of this whole haunting thing so far.”

Xena nodded and ushered them out the conference room doors and towards the lobby - only to find the majority of their group standing around the grandfather clock Nikki had mentioned.  There, broad as daylight, knelt a man working on the innards as though it was an immediate necessity.  It wouldn’t have seemed quite as unusual a feat… had he actually opened a door to reach them.  After a moment, he stood and looked around casually, then walked away as he disappeared into the ether.

The women fell into complete silence, stunned by what they had just witnessed.  In another moment, Nikki cleared her throat.  “I did tell y’all there was a lot going on around here. C’mon… we’ve still got a lot of ground to cover tonight, and we don’t want to get back too late.  Pretty sure the party scheduled for the end of this tour is not to be missed.”  She grinned.  “I’ve seen the menu.”

With that, the women relaxed and began chattering among themselves again, speculating on what could possibly top what they’d already had.  And so they walked on towards the St Louis Cemetery.

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

Carter sidled up beside Kara, who struck him as more nervous than usual, which explained why she literally jumped when he grabbed her hand.  He held on but took a step back, watching as she put a hand over her chest and took a deep breath and released it slowly before she spoke to him.  “Carter?!  Are you all right?” looking him up and down.  “What’s wrong?”

He dropped her hand and put his on her shoulders.  “Nothing’s wrong, Kara.  I’m okay.  I was just hoping you’d tell me more about the ghost you saw this morning.  It’s like the coolest thing… I mean, not like meeting Supergirl cool, but it’s pretty high up there.”

Kara closed her eyes and took another deep breath, calming her heartbeat, though she couldn’t quite hide the smile his words brought to her face.  “I promise to tell you all about it,” she swore.  “We’ll meet for breakfast in the morning, all right?” giggling at the face he made because she knew it was going to have to be early.  “I’ll tell you everything I remember.”

“Okay,” he agreed slowly, then smiled at her.  “Thanks, Kara.”

“Anytime, buddy,” she said, and watched as he moved back to walk with Emma Spaulding.  She smiled, remembering not too long ago when he shied away from any sort of human contact that wasn’t from his mom.  She liked to think she had a little to do with that.  She felt Diana come up beside her, and she turned her smile that way.  Diana smiled in reflex.  “What?”

“I was just wondering what that smile was for,” asked as she handed over a pair of earplugs.  Kara looked at them a moment, then her eyes widened, and she shoved them in her ears.

“Well, it doesn’t block everything, but it’s sure better than nothing.  Thanks, Di!” she said with a grin, then nudged her chin in Carter’s direction.  “I was just thinking about how much he has changed in the few years I’ve known him.  I wouldn’t recognize him from the boy I first met if I hadn’t seen him grow up.  And I like to think I had a little to do with that change.”

Diana’s smile widened as she nodded her head.  “You probably did.  Kara Danvers is a pretty special person.”

Kara blushed, but before she could retort, Sara came up to stand on her other side.  She extended a hand, which Kara accepted without hesitation.  “We haven’t met, since we’re on opposite sides of the room,” referring to the conventions, “but my name is Sara Sidle.”

“Kara Danvers.  This is my friend, Diana Prince.  Nice to meet you.”

“Likewise,” Sara replied, waving at Diana, who nodded her greeting since they had already met.  “I was wondering - if you meet another… anomaly… would you give me a call?  I’ve got a couple theories I’d like to test out, but given my skepticism, I don’t think they would approach me.”

Kara’s brow furrowed.  “You think he talked to me because I’m gullible?” getting just a little defensive and angry.

“No!” Sara answered firmly.  “I figured you were probably a little more open-minded… you know, since you’ve already talked to one.”

“Oh,” Kara said, deflating.  “I never… I didn’t think about it like that.  Um… I guess I could.  Do you, um… how can I reach you?”

Sara grinned, showing the gap between her teeth.  “Here,” proffering a card.  “That’s my cell and work numbers, but if you call from a hotel phone, my room is 208.”

Before she could say anything further or Kara could respond, her head swung towards Nikki, who was calling for their attention.  She didn’t see Diana or Kara wince, but she certainly felt compelled to move further into the cemetery to see what was going on.  Sara walked in through the gate, not surprised when several hands reached out and pulled her towards them.  “Can you feel it?” Catherine whispered.  Sara stood still, looking at Catherine, then glancing around to see if anyone else was doing the same.  She noticed most were looking around as though trying to discover the source of their unease.  Into their midst wandered Nikki Beaumont, now wearing a long, draping cloak.

“You can feel it, can’t you?” she asked as she passed among them.  “You can feel the restlessness of the spirits that abide here.”  She looked around solemnly.  “I’ll tell you - Katrina was hard on these folks.  Because New Orleans is below sea level, our bodies are buried above ground.  But Katrina… she was strong enough to push even the most restless spirit up and out of their grave.”  Nikki shook her head.  “I won’t lie to you - Katrina was a bad storm for this city for a lot of reasons, but mostly because of what she did to our dearly departed.  It was a long time before they settled down again, and even now they tend to act out more when the weather turns.”

As if on cue, the wind picked up and the rumble of thunder could be heard in the distance, even as rain started to lightly fall on them.  The women began to murmur, not truly happy with being rained on but resigned to endure it until they could move on to some place drier.  Nikki chuckled and pulled her hood up, not surprised when a number of women popped open the umbrellas she’d advised them to carry.  They circled in closer until everyone was covered and Nikki raised her voice to be heard over the patter of raindrops.

“I want to introduce you to my friend, Darius.  Darius comes from a long, proud line of voodoo practitioners.  He’s going to share with you the story of our next spiritual encounter.”

“Good evenin’, ladies,” Darius offered as he stepped from behind a crypt nearby.  More than one woman jumped at his surprise entrance.  “One of the most famous peoples here in Ne’Orlins be Marie Laveau - the Voodoo Queen.  Marie Laveau and I be kin, though I have never seen a priestess as powerful as her in my lifetime. Now, despite what you’ve prob’ly heard or seen on television, lots of what Madame Laveau practiced wasn’t evil.  She jus’ had a flair for dramatics and made a lots of money from it.  That’s not sayin’ she wasn’t a powerful priestess - by everythin’ I’ve ever been tole, she was.  But mostly, she was known for bein’ a good person and helpin’ others.  However,” Darius said, pulling a token from his pocket and placing it on the gravesite, “it never hurts to pay your respects.”  He gave the listening women a smile.  “Sometimes, she even listens and’ll grant the requests made by those what ask… provided their offerin’ be acceptable, of course.”  His laugh was charming even as his eyes flashed, and many of the women smiled as they dug into pockets and purses to come up with suitable tribute.  They never noticed him slip back into the shadows, though a few eyes saw him disappear.

Xena and Gabrielle stood back and watched, amused; glad the women were not only enjoying themselves but also willing to play along.  They noted that the four ‘supers’ were standing back, separated from the rest and still showing signs of discomfort, though it was minimal compared to what it had been.

As the group started to follow Nikki out of the cemetery, she turned back, suddenly solemn.  “I realize everything up til now has been a lot of fun.  Most of the experiences we’ve had or I’ve told you about so far have been playful or sad, or in some cases, entertaining.  But our next stop is none of that.  Our next stop is the LaLaurie Mansion, and it is nothing short of terrifying.”  As a whole the women slowed their steps - no longer able to dismiss the possibility of ghosts out of hand because of what they had seen - but unwilling to miss out on the next part of their nights’ adventure… even if it was a little scary.  After all… that’s what this Halloween tour was all about, right?

Gabrielle turned to Xena as they brought up the tail end of the group.  “I’ve got a bad feeling about this.”

Xena nodded slowly and looked around, taking Gabrielle’s hand in her own.  “Yeah… so do I.  Keep your eyes and ears open; there’s something going on here that hasn’t happened in our other visits.”

“So, it’s not reacting to us.  You think it’s the ‘supers’?”

“I’m thinking this might have been a bad idea.”  They moved quickly to keep from getting separated from their friends.

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

Nikki waited until all the women from her group were gathered at the corner of the LaLaurie Mansion before she started to speak again.  “I’m sure most of you have heard of the LaLaurie Mansion and Madame LaLaurie herself.  To this day no one really knows what changed for her… what caused her to chain and mutilate and starve the slaves that belonged to her.  Until she met Dr. LaLaurie, no special notice was made of her mistreating her slaves in such a fashion.  Regardless, when the fire broke out, she was discovered, and her horrible atrocities were brought to light.  The neighbors - black, white, Creole, rich, poor - destroyed her mansion and chased her in an effort to exact retribution.  She was able to escape, however, and went to France where she remained until she died fifteen years later.”  Nikki looked around the group slowly.  “Despite the destruction that was wrought here in an effort to provide justice,  the savagery that was committed here by her became embedded in the walls and floors of this place.  You can feel the misery of those that lived here, but sometimes it’s stifling.  Sometimes, you can hear the screams and their cries; sometimes you can smell the blood and the excrement they left behind.”  She shuddered, and several of the women did as well as a chill breeze skittered around them, exacerbating the rain that still fell.  “Sometimes, you can still see them as they were when they were found.”  She looked around again, noting the sombre expressions reflected back at her.  “I’m not saying this to scare you.  I’m telling you this so you can be prepared when we go inside.  This place, more than any other in the City of New Orleans, has made true believers out of the staunchest skeptics in the world.”  She stepped forward and unlocked the door, motioning the women inside.

They stepped slowly, one by one, over the threshold, each turning around to view their surroundings, spreading out until they filled most of the downstairs foyer.  Diana and Kara came in towards the last and crossed the threshold together - Kara with her glasses down her nose so she could use her x-ray vision to look around; Diana with her head tilted to better listen for any hint of an attack.  Helena and Dinah walked in behind them side by side - Helena, with her eyes feral and her senses set to detect the slightest anomaly; Dinah keeping hold on Helena’s arm… for her sake as well as Helena’s.

No one saw Darius hidden just out of sight… until Xena and Gabrielle walked in last and met his eyes unflinchingly.  His eyes widened and glowed as he bowed his head slightly in deference, then several things happened at once.

Sara Sidle and Catherine Willows both shivered as they felt the cold touch of a hand cross their shoulders.  Miranda Priestly gagged at the scent of blood and shit that filled her nose.  Maggie Sawyer closed her eyes at the waves of misery she could feel.  But all that - and every other minor reaction that could be felt - was dismissed when Dinah screamed and clutched at her head.  She would have dropped to the floor had it not been for Helena’s quick reflexes in scooping her up into her arms.  She turned to Xena, but before she could utter a word, Xena turned to Darius and simply raised an eyebrow.  He moved around the room like a proverbial ghost, stopping when he was standing in front of Helena.  He reached out a hand….

… but Helena growled and took a step back from him, turning to put herself between him and Dinah.  Darius walked forward again, though this time he didn’t move his hands away from his body.  Instead, he let his eyes glow just slightly and met Helena’s without flinching.  “I can help,” he said, so softly she almost missed his words even with her enhanced hearing.  She glanced at Xena and Gabrielle, both of whom gave her the slightest nod.  She studied him again for a long moment, then nodded.  “C’mon. Little Sister… let’s find a quiet place away from here,” he said, motioning her towards the door.  Helena hesitated, until she felt Gabrielle come up beside her and place a comforting hand on her back.

“C’mon, Hel.  Let’s let Darius take care of Dinah.  I promise he won’t hurt her, and he can help.”  Helena stared for another moment, then moved forward until they were crossing the threshold and being met by a limousine.  Gabrielle smiled at Helena’s startled look.  “I have many skills,” she parroted, but it got her the smile she was looking for.  In an instant, the four of them were ensconced in the back and headed back to the Bourbon Orleans.

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

“Well,” Nikki said into the silence that followed their departure, “that was… unexpected.  Most reactions to this place aren’t that strong.”  A beat.  “Is everybody else doing all right?  No sharp pain or dizziness?”

Everyone looked around at each other and shook their heads.  “Is she going to be okay?” Holly Stewart asked from a far corner of the room.  All heads turned her way, then immediately swung back to Xena, who was casually leaning on the wall next to the now closed door.  She straightened up and nodded.

“She’s in the best possible hands,” Xena responded.  “I know several of you in this group are doctors,” acknowledging Holly primarily, “but the fact is, this is probably more supernatural in nature.  Might be for the best that we let the voodoo doctor help her first.  He’s more in touch with all of this than any of us are.”

Heads nodded in agreement before one voice rang out above the murmurs of the rest.  “I wanna know how he knew just where to be at the right time. Seems awfully convenient and suspicious if you ask me.”

Before Nikki or Xena could speak up in Darius’ defense, Abby Sciuto stepped forward.  “Darius is a good friend,” she said into the mumbling, and it became quiet once more.  “I’ve known him all my life.  If he was here, there was a good reason.”

“Like trying to make us believe in ghosts?”

“No… because ghosts and the supernatural are real; you’ve seen that… especially here.  But there is every chance that he was warned about something like this happening - something his skills would be necessary to help someone else - and he did what he could to make sure he was where he needed to be when he had to be there.”  She looked around at the crowd of women listening intently to her words.  “For now, I would love to get out of here and move on to our next spot.  This place has always given me the creeps.”

“Me too,” Nikki agreed.  “So unless anyone just has to go upstairs, I say we move on to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar and pick up a Hurricane before we head back to our hotel and the party that should already be in full swing!”

A rousing cheer met her words, and it was almost enough to completely drown out the mourning that could still be heard coming from upstairs.  The women were quick to get out of the mansion and follow Nikki down the road, relief evident in both their voices and mannerisms.  They were louder now, and occasional nervous laughter could be heard coming from one or another of them, and it was in this rowdy mood that they entered Lafitte’s.

Xena hung to the back of the group again once more, waiting for a pale-faced Carter and Emma, who were holding hands to hide their shaking.  She placed a hand on each of their shoulders, stopping them just before they went into the bar.  “Hey… you two all right?”

Carter nodded and swallowed hard.  “Yeah… yeah.  That was kinda intense, though.”

Xena smiled wanly.  “For everyone,” she agreed.  “It was certainly… unexpected.”

“And scary,” Emma whispered.  “I wasn’t… I didn’t think….  How’s Dinah?”

“She’s gonna be all right - Gabrielle will make sure about that.  You gonna be all right, Em?  Would you prefer to go back to the hotel?  I know Nikki arranged for a special non-alcoholic drink for you both, but if you’d rather….”  Carter and Emma exchanged glances, then turned back to Xena, shaking their heads though they never released each others’ hands.  She smiled.  “All right - go on in, but let me know if things bother you later on.  Gabrielle and I will be available if you, ya know… can’t sleep or something.”

Without warning, they both leaned up and hugged her tightly, only releasing her after she returned the embrace.  Xena stood back and watched them enter the bar, bumping each other’s shoulders and grinning nervously again.  She smiled, and wasn’t at all surprised to feel Diana’s hand on her arm as she came up behind her.  “That was really sweet of you,” she whispered as Kara walked past them to catch up to Alex and Maggie who were waiting at the door.  It was only when the three of them stepped into the bar that Diana spoke again, ignoring Xena’s glare.  “Any news, Consort?”  Xena held out her phone, and Diana accepted it with alacrity and a hint of relief.  Gabrielle had sent a picture of Dinah sitting up against Helena, looking tired but happy.  Darius was beside them giving a thumbs up, and Helena didn’t appear to be particularly disgruntled.  Diana nodded as she handed back the phone with a smile.  “Can’t wait to hear that story.”

Xena grinned, then accepted her phone back and slid it into her pocket as she opened the bar door.  “C’mon.  It can’t really do anything for us, but I could still use a drink.”


Chapter V

The door had barely shut on the quartet when Helena turned and glared at Darius.  “First you’re gonna tell me who you are and what you did to her.  I’m pretty sure you’re the reason we’ve been miserable all evening,” staring at him hard enough with her feral eyes that he could almost feel the burn in his soul.  He bravely held her eyes, putting a hand on Gabrielle’s knee to keep her from interjecting.

“I be Fae - a Siren, to be exact.  I can… influence… people’s minds; ya know… make them more open to suggestion.  I didn’t know there was other fae in the audience, or I wouldn’t have been quite as enthusiastic in my efforts.”

“Metahuman,” Helena growled, sighing loudly at his raised eyebrow.  “We’re not Fae - we’re metahuman.”  Interest dawned in Darius’ golden eyes, but he held his tongue.  He could literally feel Helena’s impatience roll over him like a wave, and he swallowed the nervousness it made him feel.  Before he could speak, Helena continued.  “What did you do to her?” glancing down at Dinah, who was still unconscious in her arms.

Darius shook his head.  “That wasn’t me,” holding up his hands when Helena’s lips pulled back from her teeth in a snarl.  “Let me clarify.  That high-pitched sound you heard - the buzzin’? - that was me.  As I said, I was helpin’ open some minds to the… possibilities… Nikki was showin’ ‘em.  But Madame LaLaurie?”  He shook his head.  “Uh uh… I don’t mess with that juju.  Very dark… very evil.  I was only there to keep an eye on things because Nikki asked.  I don’t like bein’ there.”

Helena snorted.  “Yeah… I can see why.”  She glanced back at Dinah.  “So, what happened to her?”

Darius reached out a hand, then hesitated to meet Helena’s eyes.  “May I?”  She stared at him a moment, then nodded.  He placed his hand in the middle of Dinah’s chest, and put two fingers from the other hand at her temple.  Then he closed his eyes… and gasped.  His eyes flew open, but he was unseeing, the glow coming from them reflected in his hands where they touched Dinah.  He moved his mouth silently, and Helena felt Dinah take a deep breath as the glow began to fade.  Darius sat back with an exhausted smile, and Dinah looked up and grinned into Helena’s face, though she did nothing to leave the strength of her arms.

“You all right, D?” Helena asked in a whisper.

Dinah nodded slowly and offered a half smile.  “I feel like I got hit by a bus, but yeah.  At least my head doesn’t feel like it’s gonna explode anymore.”  She closed her eyes and winced.  “What was that anyway?”

“That, young lady,” Darius said from a darkened corner of the car, “be what happens when a sensitive goes into a place that’s full of misery.”  He opened his eyes and she turned her head to meet his, gasping when she saw the residual glow in them.  “Didja not know to leave well enough alone?”

A hand on Helena’s arm was enough to keep her still, and Dinah turned enough in her arms to be able to look Darius in the eye.  “I’m a touch telepath, and I actually have an incredible amount of shielding.”

Darius leaned forward, his arms on his knees.  “Maybe, but there ain’t no amount of protection people like us can use to hide from that kind of terror.  It reaches out and grabs, and for compassionate people like you be, it holds on as tight as it can.”

“Lesson learned,” she said tiredly.

“Hey,” Gabrielle called softly, “do you feel well enough for me to take a picture to send to Xena?  You know she’s gonna worry until she hears something.”  For her answer, Dinah scooted up enough that she could keep her head on Helena’s shoulder, and Darius leaned forward and offered a thumb’s up and a smile.  It only took a second before it was on its way, and Dinah slumped back down slightly.  “I told the driver to take us back to our hotel… unless you all feel like stopping at Lafitte’s?”  She chuckled at the look they gave her.  “Right… didn’t think so.”

“No,” Helena purred softly.  “I’m going to tuck Dinah into bed for the night, and then Darius and I are going to sit down and have a little chat.”  Darius nodded his head, and Gabrielle sighed.

“Do I need to be there?”

Helena looked at her directly.  “You can if you want to, but I promise it won’t be necessary.  We’re just going to talk.”

“All right,” Gabrielle agreed with a smile as the car slowed to a stop.  “Let’s get Dinah upstairs and then I’ll go check in on the party while you two have your talk.”  She opened the door and slid out, before ducking her head back in.  “Do you need some help or…?”

“I c’n w’lk,” Dinah mumbled as her head lolled into Helena’s neck.  Helena chuckled and brushed a kiss over her forehead, flexing her arms just a little to curl Dinah into her a little more.

“What? And miss the excellent to-the-door taxi service I provide?  I don’t think so.”

“S’fest pl’ce inna worl’,” she muttered before falling back asleep.  Helena blushed, but no one commented on it as she stepped from the vehicle.  Darius followed, then motioned her ahead.

“I’ll help ya get her settled, then we can go wherever you want to talk.”  Helena nodded and strode in, and he rushed to get ahead of her and open the elevator doors.  Gabrielle watched until they closed, then turned and made her way down the hall to the convention hall, where she could already hear the revelry emanating from behind closed doors.  She smiled, glad at least some of their guests were having a good evening.  She turned back and made her way toward the lobby, hoping Xena and the rest would be joining her soon.

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

Xena and Diana crossed the threshold into Lafitte’s and were met by a server carrying a tray of Hurricanes.  They helped themselves and took a deep draught as they looked around the room, studying the layout with practiced eyes.  They smiled as they noted Carter and Emma sitting at one corner of the bar - out of traffic where they could watch everything and laugh at the antics they’d be telling their kids and grandkids about in years to come.  It was plain to see that all the women of their tour were relaxing and having a good time.  They were pretty mixed together at this point, sharing stories and laughter without barriers, and it was nice to feel the difference in the atmosphere.  Then Xena turned towards the bar and nodded slightly at the deep bow the bartender afforded her.  Diana turned and met her eyes.

“Did that bartender just…?”

“Yep.”

“But isn’t he…?”

“Yep.”

“Okay, so how…?”

Xena chuckled darkly.  “Remember your queen has been around for a very, very long time.  She actually introduced me to Jean… or rather, his ghost, the first time we came here together.  She knew him when he was still alive.  Pirate that he was, he was a good friend to her, and she never forgot him for that.”

“And the women here can’t tell he’s just a ghost?”

Xena shrugged.  “After what they just witnessed, I don’t think they care… especially since he seems to be plying them with alcohol.”  She raised her glass in his direction, and he nodded and grinned in return.  “C’mon.  I think we need to round everyone up and get back to the hotel.  It’s not that late yet; I’d prefer to be there when it is.”

“Don’t want to have to try to get everyone home by curfew, Consort?” Diana asked with a smirk.  Xena just glared and then crossed her eyes before both of them laughed.

“Something like that,” she said, and started wading her way into the middle of the room.  As she passed, she could hear various bits of conversation and smiled at the concern she could hear for Dinah, and the curiosity about whether the bartender was real or another ghost.  She made her way to the bar, and before anyone could actually move out of her way, she gave her warrior yell and flipped over them all to land neatly on the bar itself.  Her actions garnered her attention and applause.  She bowed and grinned as the cheering grew louder.  “Thank you, Ladies, thank you,” holding up her hands.  “I’m guessing you’ve enjoyed the Hurricanes Jean here has prepared for you,” which was answered with the raising of glasses and raucous cheering.  She smirked.  “However, it’s time for us to go and join the rest of our friends back at the hotel,” cocking an eyebrow when they started booing.  “Don’t forget - the party’s already started there, and I have it on good authority they’ve got more booze.”  Another cheer.  “So, grab your drinks, and let’s hit the road.  Oh,” she added.  “Don’t forget to tip your bartenders,” motioning to the young man and woman currently behind the bar.  She did a lazy flip into the clear space the women made at her motion and moved to the door where Diana stood with a curious look.  “What?”

“That’s not….” gesturing towards the bar.  “What happened to…?  Where’s the pirate?”

“Right here, lass,” a voice whispered from behind her.  “You be needing something from me?”  Diana whirled so quickly she almost fell over, only to find a pair of sparkling, ghostly eyes twinkling back at her before looking at Xena.  He put a hand to his chest.  “Was it something I said?”

“Likely,” she laughed.  She waited while he looked around her pointedly, then turned back with a clear question in his eyes.  “She had to take care of someone; one of the young women on our tour was unduly affected by the LaLaurie House.

Lafitte made a face, his expression full of distaste.  “Never did care for that woman.  She gives the rest of us a bad name.”

“Yes, well… she also makes for good tourism, unfortunately.”

Jean snorted.  “Not like I can complain.  It’s done all right for me.  Give Gabrielle a kiss for me, and try not to be so long between visits next time,” he said as he disappeared.

Diana smirked.  “Glad to know it’s not just the Amazons.”  

Before Xena could comment, Nikki came up beside her.  “We’re ready whenever you are, Sugar.”  Xena opened the door and held it as she beckoned the rest to follow.

“Lead the way,” she instructed Nikki.  “You’re still the tour guide here.” Nikki didn’t reply; she simply led the parade back to the hotel to meet up with the rest of the conventioneers.

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

Gabrielle remained in her seat as the women passed her on the way to the hall where the party was being thrown.  She was happy to escape their notice if only for a few minutes.  She knew immediately, of course, the moment Xena crossed the threshold.  She tilted her head in acknowledgement as Diana offered her a swift nod before she was swallowed up by the Danvers sisters and their friends.  They made their way down the hall noisily and soon disappeared behind the large doors concealing the remainder of the party sounds from the rest of the hotel and its guests.  She smiled and looked up when a tanned hand reached out to her and helped her to her feet.  She wrapped herself around the solid body, and they swayed in place to the sounds of their heartbeats for a timeless moment.

“How’s Dinah?” Xena whispered, her cheek pressed against the top of Gabrielle’s head.

“Better than Barbara,” Gabrielle said, eyes closed and a contented smile on her lips.

Xena waited, but when Gabrielle didn’t continue, she prompted, “That bad?”

Gabrielle leaned back until she could meet Xena’s eyes.  “I don’t know.  I looked in to make sure everything was going well inside. Lucy and Barbara had everything well in hand, and folks seemed to be enjoying themselves.  So I came back out here to sit for a few, ya know?  Just a few minutes of peace and quiet; besides, I was waiting for you.”  Xena nodded, but she didn’t interrupt.  “I hadn’t been sitting here very long when I saw Barbara come racing down the hallway toward the elevators.  I started to get up, but when the elevator doors opened, Darius stepped out.  He actually signaled me to stay put, while he had a word with Barbara.”

“Was it a good word?”

Gabrielle smiled.  “It was a good word, and apparently the right word as well, because he got her calmed down, and she allowed him to push her onto the elevator and ride back up with her.  I haven’t seen or heard from them since, so I’m assuming everything worked itself out.”

Right at that moment, the elevator doors pinged open again, and Darius emerged, not only intact, but with a secret smile across his face.  He noticed them hiding out in the corner and raised his eyebrow in question, only angling their way when he had gotten nods from both of them.  Xena seated herself and pulled Gabrielle down beside her, motioning Darius to a chair across from them.

“Everything all right?”

He smiled.  “Everythin’s good.  Helena and I have come to an understandin’ or two; Dinah will be fine after a good night’s sleep; and Miss Barbara has calmed down consider’bly since she was able to see things for herself.”

“And how are you?” Gabrielle asked, her head tilted in observation as she carefully looked him over.  

He smiled.  “I think I be okay.  Even better, I think I may have made some new friends.”

Gabrielle grinned.  “That’s a good thing.  You can never have too many of those.”

Darius snorted.  “‘specially in our business.”  He looked around carefully, then leaned forward.  “Listen, I know it may not be my place, but y’all needs to be careful.  I think that what happened tonight… what I’m sayin’ is - what happened tonight wasn’t normal.  Goin’ to Madame LaLaurie’s house always be a crapshoot with how bad it can get, but I ain’t never seen - or felt - it as bad as it was tonight, and I been livin’ here all my life.  I don’t claim to be no seer, but I’m tellin’ you, there was somethin’ else goin’ on there.  Somethin’ bad… evil bad.”

Xena met his eyes squarely.  “Can I asked why you think that?  Why you’re describing it that way?”

Darius sighed.  He’d hoped to avoid questions like that.  “It’s just a feelin’,” he finally said after several moments of consideration.  “For all the misery and discontent I felt in that house - and I be feelin’ it a lot - it’s never been like that.  It’s never been so… angry.”

“And do you think the anger was directed at Dinah, or was she just a case of wrong place, wrong time?”

Darius stared at Gabrielle as he thought about her question.  “All things taken into account?  I’m gonna say wrong place, wrong time.”  He sighed and shook his head, looking down and studying his feet.  “I be pretty sure I didn’t help with that, but I didn’t know… I didn’t realize….”

“You wouldn’t have.  Her shields were strengthened substantially just to allow her to come here.  That’s one reason she didn’t react the same as Helena did - she had a barrier against it.”

“Why didn’t y’all…?” his eyes widening when Xena opened her palm and showed him the earplugs.

“They didn’t eliminate the sound, but they filtered it enough to make is more tolerable.”  She looked at him hard, and he straightened, knowing whatever was coming was less a request and more of a directive.  “I want you to keep an ear out - put it out to your network to do the same.  If something vindictive or malicious is happening here… whether it’s at the LaLaurie House or somewhere else in the City, I want to know about it.”

“You think there’s somethin’ evil lurkin’ ‘round here?  More than the usual haunts, I mean.”

“I think I don’t want to be caught by surprise by it if there is.”

He studied her for a minute, then nodded his head.  “You’ll be the first I call as soon’s I hear.”

“Thank you, Darius.”

He stood, then took her hand and lifted it to his lips, doing the same to Gabrielle before he straightened to his full height.  “We take care of our own,” he promised, then headed out of the hotel without a backwards glance.

“This is gonna get complicated, isn’t it?”

“It already is, my bard. I think it already is.”


Chapter VI

“I don’t know about this Xena,” Gabrielle muttered as she placed their dossiers on the table as Xena turned and closed the door.  “I mean after what happened to Dinah last night, and talking to Darius….”

Xena stepped into Gabrielle’s space and took cold hands in hers, rubbing them immediately to begin chafing warmth back into them.  “Talk about déjà vu,” she murmured with a soft smile, though her eyes held nothing but serious concern.  “What happened to Dinah had as much to do with where we were as anything else.  No one except Barbara gave a second thought to what might happen, and Dinah’s a grown woman who can make her own choices.  As for talking to Darius, that was for precaution as much as anything else.  We both know something was going on in that house; we don’t know if it was about us, though.  Now, we’ve been working on this for months and you’ve been nothing but enthusiastic about bringing the cons to New Orleans.  We’ve had a successful first couple days and you have to admit, the ghost tour last night was kinda entertaining... aside from what happened to Dinah.”  Gabrielle looked up with twinkling green eyes and Xena smirked.  “Completely unrealistic, but still a lot of fun.”  Gabrielle nodded, but her expression lost its mirth.  “Gabrielle?”

Gabrielle clutched Xena’s hands, stilling them while holding onto their warmth.  She dropped her eyes to the ground and shook her head.  Xena let her be, knowing she was gathering her thoughts. After a few moments, Gabrielle caught blue eyes gazing at her with love and concern.  Xena loosened the grip on one hand, transferring both of Gabrielle’s hands in one of hers as she raised the other hand to cup a smooth cheek.  She smiled when Gabrielle nuzzled her face into the touch, and Xena quirked an eyebrow in question.  Gabrielle shrugged and shook her head again.

“I don’t know, Xe.  I can’t really explain it.  I’ve just got a bad feeling.”

Xena nodded slowly.  “Okay.  When did it start?”

“Honestly?  I’m not sure.  Before last night, though; last night just compounded it.”  She tugged on the hand still holding hers and led them over to the bed to sit down.  Xena slid back against the headboard while pulling Gabrielle down to sit between her outstretched legs.  When Gabrielle was situated, Xena wrapped her arm around the bard’s middle and embraced her.

“Talk to me.”  Gabrielle intertwined their fingers, keeping her eyes focused on the contrasts between them.  Xena could feel the slight trembling in them, and squeezed lightly in reassurance.  Finally, Gabrielle sighed and leaned her body back into the one behind her, relishing the feeling of support and quiet strength.

“Do you remember...?  Do you remember Saligia?” feeling the body behind her stiffen and tense.  It was her turn to reassure, and she let her thumbs rub against Xena’s finger and thumb.  Xena tightened her hold, but didn’t speak, confident Gabrielle had more to say.  “Exactly,” she said wryly.  “Your reaction describes my feeling perfectly.  It feels like it did then.  I feel like I did then... just not to the same degree.  Kind of like when things first started falling apart for us.”

“Do you think they’re falling apart now?” asked so softly, Gabrielle felt more than heard the words.

“No!” A deep breath.  “No,” again, but quieter and with much less force.  “It just... it’s like... it feels like the same kind of evil.  But I don’t know if it’s because of the maelstrom of supernatural forces that have been drawn to this place or because of something more sinister.  I just....”  She huffed impatiently.  “I think my unease started when we got here, and it’s grown exponentially.  I’m not sure what to do about it.”

“Not sure there’s much you can do about it, Blondie,” a deep voice replied as Ares’ appeared before them.  Neither woman moved, and Ares raised an eyebrow at their lack of reaction.  “I think I’m insulted, Princess,” he commented with a pointed look at Xena.  “Or don’t you care enough to protect the weak anymore?” sneering in Gabrielle’s direction before giving her a saucy wink.

Xena snorted.  “She’s the one who broke your nose, War God.  Pretty sure she’s not the one who needs protecting here.”  Gabrielle snickered, and Ares crossed his arms over his chest and glared.  Xena simply gave him a bored stare.  “Whaddya want?”

Before he could reply, rose petals fell from nowhere, leaving a scowling Aphrodite in their place.  She drew back and punched him in the arm.  “Yo, Bro – didn’t I tell you to let me handle this gnarly situation?  What’s up with this?” motioning around the suite.  She smiled at Xena and Gabrielle curled up together and gave a little wave.  “Hi, girls.”

They exchanged a look before turning their attention to Aphrodite, patently ignoring Ares.  “Hello, Aphrodite,” Gabrielle greeted.  “What brings you here?

Ares huffed impatiently and opened his mouth to speak when Aphrodite shook her head at him.  “I’m taking care of this, bro.  So, you can either take a seat and listen quietly, or head back to Olympus.  Your radical choice, of course, but those are your options. I’d suggest you choose wisely.”

He looked at her a long moment, then sighed in disgust and waved a hand to produce a throne-like chair to sit in.  He fell gracelessly into it and crossed his arms over his chest, giving her a petulant look.  “You’re not the boss of me,” he muttered.

“Yeah, I really kinda am,” rolling her eyes when he huffed and looked away from her.  She turned back to Xena and Gabrielle, who were waiting patiently, eyes twinkling with humor, though that was the only sign of their amusement.  “So,” she offered, “as to why I’m here,” watching the mirth fade from their expressions as they settled into serious business.  “It seems like that totally uncool douche is back… or is trying to be at any rate.”

“Douche?  You mean Saligia?”

“Of course she means Saligia,” Ares grumbled.  “Why else would we be here??  I swear sometimes….”

“You swear a lot of the time, actually,” Aphrodite countered, “but I’m pretty sure I totally told you listen quietly.  So, unless you want me to send your not-badass-enough self back to Olympus in less than desirable circumstances, you’ll zip that lip and keep it shut, until and unless you actually have something of consequence to offer.  Am I clear?”

He didn’t deign to answer; he simply dropped his body against the chair back and pointedly looked away from her.  Aphrodite gazed at him a moment longer, only turning back to Xena and Gabrielle when Ares shoulders slumped just slightly in acceptance of his defeat.  They looked their questions at her, but she waved a hand.  “Now’s not the time,” was all she said, and they nodded their acceptance, knowing eventually she would share with them… especially if it had any bearing on what this was all about.

“So… Saligia?” Gabrielle prompted.

Aphrodite sighed.  “Yeah.  I mean, we don’t have any concrete proof.”

“Like the last time.”

She glared at Xena for the interruption, but she simply held the stare until Aphrodite was the one to look away.  “All right - fair… like the last time.  But like the last time, the indicators are there… especially since we know better what to look for this time around.”

“Gods are disappearing again?”

“We think so.  It’s a little harder to tell nowadays.  We haven’t really kept in contact with each other regularly; we just don’t talk as often as we used to.  So, unless something radical happens….”  She sighed again and looked away.

“What brought this to your attention if you’re not even sure?”

“Discord was affected,” Ares supplied when the silence dragged out too long for his liking.  “She’s no longer a goddess.”

Aphrodite nodded and continued his thought.  “Like before, it seems to be only minor gods being affected… for now, anyway.  When we finally discovered Discord had become powerless, I started sending out feelers - to find out if it was just an anomaly… a fluke, ya know?  I mean… it’s not like people bring in sacrifices and offerings anymore.  And most of the Pantheons are like, retired.  Ares and I  - and all of our counterparts in each Pantheon - are the busiest and most powerful these days, just by virtue of what is happening in the world.  Which made what happened to Discord kinda stand out, ya know?  Because she’s one of Ares’ - she had plenty of strength.”

“What did you find out?”

“Well, every Pantheon has lost a minor god or two in the last decade or so, but most of them were gone… like totally disappeared.”

“What happened to the godweb, Dite?  I mean, for a while there, you were all so excited about it - you were in touch with each other, and sharing, and having fun, and….”

Aphrodite looked down.  “It was creating some issues between some of the Pantheons, and taking a lot of time I should have been focused on other things… like work.  So, we decided to take a break from it for a while - just to give everyone time to settle down and remember they are actually grown adults, and start, you know, like… acting like it.”

“We the Greek gods or we the gods in general?”

“We… generally speaking.  We kept an eye on our own business of course, but we stayed out of anyone else’s.”

“I’d love to know what caused that,” Gabrielle whispered to Xena, and although both Aphrodite and Ares heard her, neither responded.  “So, it wasn’t until Discord lost her powers that you started looking.  Did she disappear as well?”

“Not so far,” Aphrodite replied, “but we don’t know if it is a temporary thing or if the others disappeared by choice.”  She huffed.  “We have a lot of unanswered questions, and we’ve only just started to look for answers.  We came to you as soon as we realized it wasn’t a singular quirk limited to Discord.  The other Pantheons are re-establishing the world-wide part of the godweb as we speak.  It should be back online by the time we return home.”

“What do want from us?”

“I know at one point you set up an avant-garde to oversee the talismans - to ensure they couldn’t bother anyone… god or mortal… ever again.  I think it may be time to bring them together… so we can destroy them and crush Saligia once and for all.”

“And you have a plan for how you’re going to do this?”

“Not at all.  But I don’t think we’re going to have much of a choice.  There are too many forces at work here - the darkness is coming and Saligia with it whether we’re ready or not. I think it’s going to be our best chance to defeat him.”

“Our only chance,” Ares retorted seriously, and no one contradicted his statement.

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

“Not sure you should be bringing her along, Bo.  Trick didn’t ask for her.”

Before Bo Dennis could reply, Dr. Lauren Lewis spoke up, only a hint of derision in her tone.  “Don’t worry, Dyson.  Trick likes me.”  She patted his shoulder lightly as she brushed by him.  “I’ll protect you.”  She stepped into the room and crossed to Trick McCorrigan’s side, engulfing him in a hug and laughing as he returned her clasp with enthusiasm.  Dyson Thornwood rolled his eyes and turned to Bo who had only just managed to contain her mirth.

“It’s not funny.”

She snorted.  “Yeah, it is,” walking past him and into the room more fully.  “Can anyone get in on this action?” she asked, striding forward with her arms open wide.  Lauren and Trick turned at the sound of her voice, and opened their arms to accept her into their embrace.  Trick cast an amused glance at Dyson, who remained in the doorway with his arms crossed over his chest and a petulant expression on his face.

“Come along, Dyson.  Wouldn’t you like to be part of this?” extending a hand.  “It’s only going to get worse from here.”

“Not sure how,” he muttered, though loudly enough for Trick to hear him.  The older fae frowned.  He knew there were jealousy issues, but they really didn’t have time for them.  There was too much at stake and despite everything, Trick couldn’t see how long they had before things went to hell.  He squeezed Lauren and Bo once more before releasing them, and they could see from his demeanor that things were serious.

“Trick?” Lauren asked gently, holding his hand lightly and looking at him with a physician’s eyes.  He patted her hand twice before pulling his hand away.

“I’m glad you’re here, my dear,” he said with a soft smile.  “Perhaps....”  He trailed off.  “Come – take a seat,” motioning them to a table in the currently closed bar.  “I have a tale to tell, and well... maybe you can tell me afterwards.”

“Tell you what?” her face full of confusion.

“Listen,” sitting back in his chair and closing his eyes, hands clasped across his chest.  Then he began to speak.  “You know that I’m the keeper of the books – one who at one time would have been known as a bard or shaman.  It’s been thus for most of my time on this planet.  For many of the stories, I was there... either as a watcher or a participant.  But I haven’t been around forever, and some things were passed on to me from others of my ilk, if not my gifts.”

“So not Blood Kings then?”

“Among other things,” he agreed, “though they did have gifts of their own.  We’ll get to that,” he promised, waving off any potential questions.  “What concerns us now, well... the original story goes back more than two millennia, but it’s what’s happened more recently that we need to focus on.”

Bo rolled her eyes.  “Could you be a little less cryptic?  I got the feeling from your message that this was important, but right now, I’m just confused.”

“And it makes you impatient,” Trick replied drolly.  “I know.  I’m not explaining this well.  Let me begin again.  There is a little town in Maine known as Storybrooke.  Thirty-five years ago, it didn’t exist, and then one day... BAM!  There it was.”

“Bam – there it was?” Lauren questioned.  “I don’t understand.”

“I didn’t either,” Trick conceded, “until I realized it had been magicked into being.  A portal from another land – a land with magic had been opened and deposited it into place.  I didn’t really think too much about it, though, because nothing else happened... not for a long time. Then a few years ago, magic returned within the confines of Storybrooke, and I started doing a little research and a little watching. There was light magic and dark magic and for a while that wasn’t a problem, because there was balance between them.”

“What happened?” Dyson asked.

“Light sacrificed herself for Dark and the strength of her power caused fissures in the magical realms.  It wouldn’t have mattered, except....”

“Except...?  Why do I get the feeling we’re getting to the crux of the story?” Bo broke in when Trick stopped speaking, tapping his fingers thoughtfully on his chin.

“Because you, my darling granddaughter, are brilliant,” Trick answered with a wry smile.  “Back in the days of my relative youth, I met a woman named Gabrielle – lovely woman... full of passion and life.  Pretty sure she would have been something incredible to bed had she allowed such a thing.  Alas, she was bound to another, and she was unwilling or unable to break that bond – I was never sure which.”  He waved a dismissive hand.  “Doesn’t actually matter at the moment.  What does matter is that she is an immortal… a bacchae, predecessor to vampires... and as such, someone beyond even my scope.”  He turned to Bo.  “Your father knew her before she was turned – had some interesting tales of her and her companion.”

“And that’s important?”

“Yep.  He vouched for her, for one thing – assured me they were Children of the Light, brought to bear long before bloodsuckers became dark fae. In fact, she and her mate – a warrior called Xena – managed to save the ancient gods from being annihilated by an entity only known as Saligia.”  He paused and waited, wondering who would put the pieces together first.

“Saligia... really?” Dyson asked with surprise.  “I haven’t heard that name in....”

“I know – neither had I.”

“Not to appear stupid,” Lauren broke in after a moment’s silence, and Dyson let the comment pass after looks from both Bo and Trick.  “But who is Saligia?  And who are Xena and Gabrielle?  And how do they tie in to Storybrooke?  And...?”

Trick gave Bo a sly glance.  “She’s an impatient one as well.  You appear to collect them, my dear,” glancing at Dyson before returning amused eyes to meet Bo’s.

“Perhaps,” she allowed with a graceful shrug.  “But she asks some good questions.”

“She does.”  Trick looked back at Lauren.  “Allow me to explain what little I am at liberty to share at the moment.  When Light sacrificed herself for Darkness in Storybrooke, it shook the foundations of every realm in existence, and the fissures it created seemed to have awakened Saligia from what had been hoped to be an eternal sleep.  I suspect he will try to find a portal to enter this realm from there.”

“I still don’t....”

“Hush,” Trick commanded sternly.  “Bo, I need you to find Gabrielle and her mate... let them know what has happened and why.  They need to be aware so they can formulate a plan of action to defend themselves and the rest who will ultimately need to stand beside them.”

“Is there a reason you keep referring to them as mates?  Can’t you just call them lovers or something?”

Fire flared in Trick’s eyes at the almost insolent tenor of her question, and Bo was taken aback by the anger she witnessed turned in her direction.  “Be careful with your tone, young lady, and with what you choose to disregard and insult.  It might be all casual with you kids these days, but they have been around and together for a very long time.  It would stand you in good stead with them to show the proper respect for that.”

“I just....”

“Enough!  Dyson, I want you to go to Storybrooke.  See if you can find this portal.  If we can stop Saligia there, so much the better for everyone.”

“Trick, why can’t you just write the ending you want to this?” Lauren inquired softly.

Trick sighed.  He’d been hoping to avoid this question.  “Two reasons, honestly.  One selfish, the other less so.”  She nodded and he sighed again.  “The truth is, every time I’ve written a blood ending, I’ve paid the price for it... dearly.  That alone makes me hesitate.  But the truth is, I can’t.  This story began long before my time and utilizes a magic older than any I’ve used... or seen.  It’s not in my power to change the outcome of this.  That duty belongs to those who began this story millennia ago.”

“Gabrielle and her mate,” Bo stated unequivocally.

“Exactly.  Now go quickly.  I don’t know how much time there is before this becomes our fight.  But I suspect it will be soon.  After all... Halloween is coming.”


Chapter VII

Low heeled boots clicked steadily on the stone as Emma Jones, nee Swan, made her way down the long hallway towards the throne room.  She shook her head as she regarded the massive doors that opened on her approach, chuckling at how swiftly they reversed course as she crossed the threshold.  Her smile remained intact, even as she bowed her head slightly at the figure regally seated upon the dais.  

“My Queen,” she proffered, meeting twinkling brown eyes with mysterious green.

“Miss Swan,” Regina Mills replied softly, but with a hint of a smile.  “How are things in my empire?”

“Should I have referred to you as my Empress instead?” Emma asked as she bowed a second time, low to the ground and as perfect as any Regina had ever seen.  She still rolled her eyes at Emma’s words.

“Get up, you idiot,” Regina said with an indulgent smile.  “Honestly, Miss Swan, some days I wonder about your sense.”

“Just remember… you’re the one that hired me, Regina.  And by the way - are we ever going to get past that ‘Miss Swan’ thing?  I’ve managed to move on from ‘Madame Mayor’, and I do have another name, you know.”

“Well, Em-ma, I could address you as Princess, I suppose, but you’ll always be Miss Swan to me.”

“Even though I’m actually Mrs. Jones?” said with a smirk.

Regina rolled her eyes again.  “Even though.  Honestly, it’s such a bland, boring name, and if there are any maladies you’ve never suffered from, bland and boring are right at the top.”

Emma regarded her a moment longer, then her lips twisted into an all out grin and she laughed.  “Yes, I think that could probably be said about both of us and our entire relationship.”  She moved forward at Regina’s beckon, and extended a hand when Regina rose from the throne, holding on lightly until she reached the chamber floor.  Regina motioned them towards her smaller receiving room as she released the helping hand, and Emma tucked her hands behind her back as they strolled together.  When they reached the room, Emma opened the door as a matter of course and held it as Regina passed through, turning to shut it firmly behind herself before crossing the room and taking a seat in front of the desk.  She slouched slightly, knowing it would earn her a narrowed-eye glare and pursed lips.

“Must you?” Regina asked out of habit, gesturing to Emma’s poor posture.

Emma chuckled and straightened.  “Of course I must.  It’s guaranteed to get a reaction.”

“You are definitely your son’s mother,” Regina mutter with a frown, though her eyes glittered with humor.  “Now, what’s the news from the other realms?”

Emma rolled her eyes and leaned forward, elbows on her knees and hands clasped together.  “Your regents are doing an acceptable job.  There is peace throughout each land; the little mumblings and murmurings I heard are being watched, though most of it had less to do with you and more with the fact that some magical practices are creating issues.  They’re being monitored as well, but I expect sooner rather than later they’ll come to you for a decision on the whole business.  Otherwise, the people in your empire are happy, even with the magical challenges they face.  Each realm is fairly prosperous, and everyone is making plans for the Halloween celebration.  From what I could gather, it’s gonna be some kind of blowout.”  She leaned back and tilted her head as she studied Regina’s countenance.  “I didn’t realize Halloween was such a big deal in some of those places.”

“Oh, Miss Swan - it’s not Halloween that’s the big deal.  It’s the celebration.  It’s the opportunity to have a party.  That’s reason enough.  The fact that it is Halloween - or harvest - just means it’s that much more important, which in turn means a bigger, better celebration.”

“Of course it does,” Emma replied, though her smile never left her face.  “Anyway, your regents will be here November first.  If it all goes well, they should be returning home on the third or fourth, which will give them plenty of time to prepare for the Yuletide holidays.”

“Anything else?”  Regina noted something in the open book before her, then placed her pen on the desk as she rose. Emma followed automatically, though it was clear from her expression that something was occupying her thoughts.  Regina let her be until they reached the small dining room, where Emma’s husband, Killian Jones, and her parents, David and Snow White Charming were already seated.  They rose as Regina crossed the threshold, motioning them back to their seats immediately.  “No need for ceremony when it’s only family,” she commented with a warm smile.

“Thank you, Regina,” Snow said graciously.  She looked at Emma.  “Is she all right?” causing Emma to come out of whatever brown study she’d fallen into.

“I’m fine, Mom.  Just going over some of the reports I got this morning from the other realms.”  She smiled, though Regina could easily see the concern behind it.  “Looks like Halloween should be quite the party in all the realms.” She glanced at Killian.  “How’s things at the shipyard?” drawing everyone’s attention away from her when Killian and David took over the conversation.  Even Snow was pulled into the discussion, allowing Regina and Emma to exchange looks.  Regina indicated her desire to continue their talk with a single raised brow, and Emma acknowledged her agreement with the slightest nod.  Then with bright smiles, they turned to join in a conversation that was already quite lively.

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

Dessert was being passed around - apple tarts, of course - when a stableboy darted into the small dining room at rapid speed… as though he were being chased by the hounds of hell.  Emma intercepted him immediately, recognizing the fear and desperation on his pasty, white face, something he’d never worn in her presence before.  She knelt to his level and placed a hand on his heart, hoping to slow his breathing enough that he could speak clearly.  In only a moment, he nodded his head, and she removed her hand from his chest.  He immediately turned to Regina and gave a swift bow.

“My Queen,” he gasped.  “There’s an intruder - a man… a wolf… a… a….”

“A shapeshifter?” Regina questioned sharply.  The boy nodded his head rapidly.  

“He changed… right in front of us… then took off.  I was sent the back way to warn you, but….”

At that moment, there was a scuffle outside the room as the doors swung open.  Emma stood and shoved the boy away from her, knowing the others would ensure he was safe.  And when the wolf jumped, she was ready, grabbing him around the throat and slamming him to the ground unceremoniously.  The wind was knocked from his lungs, and he began to choke as he shifted back towards his human form.  She glared down at him and tightened her grip.

“Give me a reason, buddy… just one good reason.”  The man went perfectly still, trying to breathe as shallowly as possible and not choke.  She held him down for another full thirty seconds, until a soft touch on her shoulder reassured her.  Still, she didn’t relax or relinquish her hold until Regina spoke.

“Let him go, Miss Swan, and let’s hear what he has to say for himself.”  She lifted her hand from Emma’s shoulder and stepped back.  She turned her attention to Dyson, pinning him with cold, brown eyes.  “I’m sure we won’t have any more trouble from him, will we, Mr….?”

“Thornwood… Dyson Thornwood,” he croaked.

“Well, Mr. Dyson Thornwood.  I’m going to have Killian and David escort you… somewhere… so you can put on some clothes.  And when you return, we’ll discuss your need to come crashing into my castle.  Uh uh,” she cautioned, waving a single finger at him when his lips parted to speak.  “Whatever you have to say will wait until you’re dressed.”  She turned to David and Killian and motioned them forward.  “Gentlemen, if you would take care of our unexpected guest,” waiting until they stepped up and helped Dyson to his feet.  Then she turned to Snow.  “Would you be a dear, and ask Miss Lucas to join us?  She might be able to shed some light on our intruder.”  Snow nodded, and walked off to contact Ruby.  Regina turned to Emma, who was still kneeling on the floor.  She offered her hand, and Emma glanced at it, before turning to meet Regina’s eyes.  Regina smiled.  “Come, Miss Swan - off the floor.  There’s nothing more to be done until we speak to Mr. Thornwood.”  She smirked.  “That was a pretty nice catch, by the way.”

Emma smiled smugly and flexed her arms and shoulders slightly.  “Yeah… nice to know that I still got it.”

Regina snorted and Emma laughed.  “Come on, you idiot.  Let’s finish dessert.  I have an idea this might take a little while.”

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

Xena and Gabrielle turned to one another after Ares spoke.  After a moment, Gabrielle sighed and picked up her phone, putting it on speaker when it was picked up after the first ring.

“Gabrielle?  Is everything all right?”   

Gabrielle smiled despite herself, glad beyond reason they had offered this woman a job when she’d come to them for help. There was no one more indispensable or dedicated to them than she had become in the last year, and neither of them could imagine running their business without her now.

“Gabrielle?” came the concerned voice again when the silence grew long, but it was Xena who answered.

“We’re both here, Casey.  We need a favor.”

“Sure, Xena - name it.”

“Can you call the girls and ask them to be in the office first thing tomorrow?”

“Early, Casey,” Gabrielle emphasized.  “By seven.”

“Yeah, sure.  I’ll call them as soon as we hang up.  Do you want me there as well?”

“Please.”

“All right.  I’ll be expecting your call in the morning then.  Anything else?”

“No.  Go enjoy your evening.  Tell Ian we said hello.”

“I will,” she replied with a chuckle.  “Break a leg tonight, Gabrielle.  Night.”  Casey hung up without another word and Gabrielle tucked her phone into her back pocket.

“All right.  That’s started.  Now if you’ll excuse us….”

Ares reached out a hand and grabbed her by the arm, halting all movement in the room.  Xena glanced at Gabrielle, but the barest shake of her head kept Xena in place.  She turned green eyes that were morphing toward yellow in Ares direction, and it took all his strength of will not to shudder or pull away from her. She cleared her throat softly.

“Ares,” she stated calmly, “I’m going to give you one chance… a single opportunity… to remove your hand from my person.  The next time, I’m not going to ask.  I’ll break it.”

Ares studied her a moment, trying to gauge her seriousness, but when her eyes flashed red-rimmed yellow and she bared her fangs at him, he slowly lifted his hand and crossed his arms over his chest.  He remembered all too well this woman not only had the power to hurt him, but, in fact, had done so… much to his unpleasant surprise.  He really didn’t want a repeat, but he needed her to understand the gravity of their circumstances.

“I don’t think you’re grasping the importance of the situation, Bard,” forcing himself not to step back when she hissed at him.

“I understand things just fine, Ares.  I still remember Dahok,” her cold voice causing flames of ire to appear in his eyes at her impudence in reminding him of his shame.  She gave him a vicious smile - the fire died and an almost imperceptible flinch shuddered through Ares’ frame..  “Even after your betrayal, you expected us to clean up your mess.  Now, you need our help - again, I might add - to take care of a problem you and your compatriots should have resolved a very long time ago.  We’ve agreed to help, and have actually taken the first steps necessary to do what needs to be done.  There is nothing else we can or will do about it tonight.  Tonight, we have other responsibilities.”

“You think your storytelling is more important than a creature who can kill gods??”

Xena put a hand on Aphrodite’s arm to keep her from interfering.  When she cocked her head in question, Xena merely jerked her chin in Gabrielle’s direction, showing her hand held up in a halting motion, though she and Ares never looked away from one another.

“This creature who can kill gods has been around for millennia, and he’s obviously not ready to face the big gods yet, regardless of what you think.  Meanwhile, we still have two conferences full of women who are waiting for the annual storytelling event that has become a major part of both cons - a part that brings everyone together; a part that allows any of them to becomes storytellers themselves for a little while if they are so inclined to try.  We’re not going to disappoint them just because you’ve suddenly decided this is an emergency.”

“You’re serious,” he said flatly.

“Yes.  My memory is long, and we are long, long past the time that you can scare or manipulate or guilt us into anything.  So don’t even try.”  She sighed and closed her eyes.  “Go home, Ares.”

Now Aphrodite stepped forward and took his arm.  He considered jerking away from her to make a point, but recognized it might not be a point worth making.  He settled for giving her a look, but she ignored him and turned back to Xena and Gabrielle, who were now wrapped around one another.

“I’ll take him home,” she asserted.  “I’d appreciate it if you two bodacious dudettes could give me a shout when you, like, know something.”

“You’ll hear from us soon, Dite,” Gabrielle promised, though she never opened her eyes nor lifted her head from where she was tucked into Xena’s neck.

“Let’s go, bro,” Aphrodite demanded as she shimmered from sight.  “You’ve screwed up enough for now.”  He opened his mouth to respond, but they were out of sight before any words managed to escape.

“You know,” Gabrielle said softly when the sparkles and petals disappeared, “now I wonder if the bad feeling was really Saligia or just Ares being an ass.”

Xena’s laughter was silent, but Gabrielle felt it in her bones, and it made her smile.  “I don’t know, Bard-of-Mine, but we have a date to be elsewhere.  What say we go find a bonfire and you and some of our friends tell some scary stories?”

Gabrielle leaned up and caught Xena’s lips for a long moment, only pulling away when they were both a little breathless.  “Sounds like an offer I can’t refuse, Warrior.  Let’s go find some fun.”

Then they exited their room and headed to the lobby where everyone was gathered to catch buses that would take them to their gathering place.

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

“Helen?” Kate Freelander called out to her boss even as she knocked on the open door of her office.  “Do you have a minute?”

Helen Magnus glanced at Will Zimmerman, who nodded and rose from his seat.  “I’ll go get started on these,” hefting the tomes and pad of notes he held.  “I’ll let you know if we make any progress.”

“Thanks, Will,” Helen said with a smile, turning blue eyes to Kate, who was hovering in the doorway.  She waved her inside, and Kate held the door open for Will, thanking him quietly as he passed her.  He smiled his acknowledgment, and she closed the door firmly behind him, causing Helen to raise her eyebrows.  But she waited patiently, gesturing for Kate to take a seat before she spoke.  “What can I do for you, Kate?  Water?” motioning to the pitcher that sat on the sideboard.

“No, thank you. I, um… I…. Have you…?  Is there…?”  Helen held up a hand and Kate snapped her jaw shut, almost biting her tongue in the process.  She frowned, but relaxed when she met Helen’s gaze.  “Sorry,” she muttered.

Helen shook her head.  “Don’t be sorry.  Take a moment to get your thoughts together, then try again.”

“Right,” she agreed after a few moments of silent introspection.  “I was wondering - has there been an increase in abnormal activity lately?”

Blue eyes sharpened and drilled into brown, even as Helen cocked her head in question.  “Why do you ask?”

Kate shrugged and looked down at her lap.  “Nothing particular,” she replied slowly.  “It’s just….”  She sighed.  “For many years - I mean like, centuries, possibly even millennia - my people… my family… have been caretakers - guardians - of a talisman.  It’s believed to be one of a set, but not much is known about it, really… not even what it represents.  The only thing we know clearly is that it is our responsibility.  It is never to pass out of our hands, except to the next family member when a caretaker dies.”

“So you don’t know what it does or why it was created,” Helen stated.  “Do you know why your family was chosen as its guardians?”

Kate shook her head.  “Only that the ancestor was considered ‘worthy’… whatever that means.”

“May I see it?”

“That’s the funny thing,” Kate said as she reached into her jacket pocket.  “Not too long ago, it wouldn’t have been possible.  For as long as can be remembered, the box has been locked,” placing an ornate wooden box on the desk between them.  “And now suddenly….”  She pushed on the top, and it sprung open, displaying a gorgeous sapphire that had been crafted into the shape of a peacock.  It wasn’t large - maybe an inch or so in size - but when Helen laid eyes on it, she was compelled to have it.  The desire - the envy - she felt was overwhelming, and she forced her hands together tightly to keep from reaching out for it.  Kate lifted it from the box, and Helen could feel her desire grow as though it was a living thing.

“Put it back,” she growled.  “Put it back now,” she commanded.  Dark eyes had snapped up the moment Helen had begun to speak, and now they followed her command without hesitation.  She closed the box as soon as the talisman was in place, and she could see Helen visibly relax, closing her eyes and blowing out a deep breath.  She sat perfectly still for a long moment, before meeting Kate’s eyes again.  “Did you feel it?”

“Feel… what?”

“I think we need to take it to the lab for testing.  I’ll explain more when we get there.  If you’ll take that,” motioning to the box with a nod of her head, “I’ll find Will and Henry.  This may take a little more investigation that I originally thought.”

“Whatever you say, Doc.  I’ll meet you in the lab.” Then Kate rose and made her way out of Helen’s office.  It was more than a full minute later before Helen stood to follow her out.


Chapter VIII

Maura Isles tucked her hand into the crook of Jane Rizzoli’s elbow, and covered it with her other hand.  She looked down and the sturdy walking boots they both wore and sighed.  They weren’t nearly as fashionable as she would have liked, but she trusted that Jane wouldn’t lie to her about how necessary the hiking shoes would be for this excursion.  She let out a sigh of relief when she looked around the lobby, noting everyone - even Miranda Priestly - was similarly shod.  She turned her attention to Jane, who was smiling indulgently down at her.

“Feel better now?” she asked with a twinkle in her brown eyes.

Maura squeezed the arm she held.  “Yes.  Are you sure about the jackets, though?  The probability of needing outwear seems minimal.  Surely with having a bonfire this far south….”

“Remember how chilly it got on the ghost tour last night?  I know there will be a bonfire, but with the number of women here, there’s no guarantee we’ll be anywhere close to its warmth. I’d rather have and not need….”

“…. than need and not have,” Maura agreed.  She looked around again.  “I’m really glad we came here… despite the oddity that finding doubles and triples of ourselves has been.  I’m going to do a bit of research when we get back home.  There has to be some kind of science behind it, though it’s obviously not been documented in any way.  I might get another paper out of it.”

Jane pulled her hands from her pockets and took Maura’s in hers.  She’d been surprised when Maura had asked to come to the law enforcement convention… especially since she had formally retired from public service and settled into life as a writer.  Then she realized that Maura was coming for her, and she had immediately agreed, reminding her partner that she was eligible to attend both if she wanted.  The smile that had settled on Maura’s face could have lit up the whole room, and Jane was glad they had come… even though seeing Lindsay Boxer, Abby Carmichael, and Kate Todd had thrown her - thrown them both, to be honest - for a loop for a while.  She could see how the mystery tickled Maura’s big brain, and she looked forward to seeing what kind of paper she would write about this.  And she wouldn’t be surprised to find something included in an upcoming novel either.

“I’m looking forward to reading it,” she confessed, managing an affronted look at Maura’s disbelieving one.  “What??  I am.  I’d love to know how I ended up with two dopplegangers who are both in law enforcement like me and how you ended up with one also.  The odds on that have to be….”

“Astronomical,” Maura assured her.  “I could calculate it for you if you’re….”  She stopped speaking and frowned when Jane’s fingers covered her lips.

“Astronomical is close enough, Maur,” Jane confirmed, removing her fingers and brushing a kiss over her lips.  “Let’s go look around in the gift shop for a minute.  I promised Ma I’d bring her back something nice from New Orleans, and I really haven’t had a chance to look,” trying to look innocent at Maura’s knowing expression.  “What??” she defended, even though Maura hadn’t said a word.  “I haven’t… we haven’t,” knowing she was responsible for the fact that they had only left their room for the scheduled conference events, though Maura certainly hadn’t been complaining at the time… nor was she complaining now, in point of fact.  Jane glanced at her again and saw a distinct twinkle in her hazel eyes and a smirk on full pink lips.  “Yeah, yeah,” she complained good-naturedly.  “Everyone’s a critic.  C’mon anyway.  It looks like we’ve got a little time to kill yet.  Xena and Gabrielle aren’t here yet.”

Maura squeezed the hand she still held and tugged Jane in the direction of the store.  Lindsay and Abbie watched them go, then turned back to one another with a sigh, wondering again how they had ended up with another lookalike… especially a damn Yankee one they couldn’t find on any branch of the family tree.

“You figure it out yet, Inspector?” Cindy Thomas asked as she and the rest of the Women’s Murder Club came up beside her.  Though she and Lindsay hadn’t worked out as a couple, they were still best friends, and she wrapped an arm around Lindsay’s waist, even as she felt a lanky arm curl around her shoulders.

“You two need to stop,” Jill Bernhardt complained.  “You’re doing that whole ‘being exes’ thing wrong.”

“Shut up, Jill,” Cindy grumbled, tucking herself further into Lindsay’s side.  Lindsay chuckled and brushed a kiss over her forehead.

“Yeah, shut up, Jill,” Lindsay repeated.  “It works for us.”

“Leave them alone, Jill,” Claire Washburn instructed before Jill could retaliate.  “It works for all of us for it to work for them… however it works for them.  Let it be.  Besides, I’m still waiting on an answer to Cindy’s question.  Have you two figured it out yet?”

“No,” Abbie replied.  “Mama didn’t even believe me until I sent pictures.”

“Well, if your Mama doesn’t know, odds are nobody does.  Have you talked to her?”

“A little,” Lindsay said.  “It’s hard to fit in time for that kind of discussion with everything we’ve got going on over the weekend… especially since she and her partner seem to be on some kind of a honeymoon.  We’re hoping for some more time once the conference is over.”

“Sounds reasonable.  It might be something you can put some of the evidence experts here on.  Surely they could help you find your answers.”

Lindsay chuckled.  “We’ve already talked to Sara, Claire.  She’s agreed to help out.”

“Good.  She did good work with Wendy and Nikki.  I’ll bet she can do the same for the three of you.  I have to admit - everybody’s pretty curious.”

“I’ll bet,” Abbie muttered, arms crossed over her chest.

Claire frowned at Abbie’s tone, and placed a hand on her arm.  She felt the muscle tense beneath her touch, but to her credit, Abbie didn’t pull away.  “Are you all right?” warm concern in her tone.

Abbie nodded jerkily.  “Yeah.  I’m just tired of being looked at like some kind of circus freak,” not mentioning it had less to do with Jane and Lindsay and more to do with her.

Claire lifted her hand and nodded slowly.  “I can understand why you’d feel that way, even though I don’t think anyone intends it like that.”

Abbie sighed, and Lindsay spoke up.  “I’m sure they don’t, but put yourself in our shoes.  And the worst part is, we haven’t really had an opportunity to sit down and talk to her a lot.  I think that might help ease our… discomfort… as well.”

“So why not skip some of the extracurricular activities, like this bonfire?  Surely something this important….” Jill asked.

“Because we all know we get as much out of the after-hours stuff as we do the actual conference.  And it’s not fair to ask them to miss anything… especially on their first time here.”

“All right.  I see Xena and Gabrielle.  It must be about time to board the buses.”

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

“I’m a little concerned, Liv,” Alex Cabot said to her partner, as she turned away from her observation of Abbie Carmichael.  “I still haven’t seen Casey, and it feels like Abbie is intentionally avoiding us.”  Olivia Benson tilted her head slightly and shifted her glance from Alex’s blue eyes to the spot across the room where Abbie stood with her cousin and her cohorts, arms crossed defensively over her chest.

“When was the last time you spoke to her?”

“Casey or Abbie?”

Brown eyes turned back to blue.  “Either.”  She let her eyes wander the room, holding up a hand when she spotted Jo Polniaczek and Blair Warner headed their way.

“I spoke to Abbie briefly when we checked in a couple days ago, and we’ve greeted each other every morning, but otherwise… we haven’t really sat down and talked.  In fairness, we’ve been going and doing since we got here.”

“And Case?”

“Not for a while,” Alex frowned, trying to remember the last time she’d spoken to Casey.  “The foundation is practically running itself these days, so we haven’t needed to be in touch constantly like we were at the beginning.  And you know how crazy the last few months have been for us.  I just assumed they’d been the same for them, since she hasn’t called - assumed we’d all have a chance to catch up once we were together in the same place again for a few days.  Now I wonder.”

“Do you think they broke up and no one told us?” looking back at Alex.

“I think it’s a distinct possibility.”

“What is?” Blair asked as she and Jo reached them.

Olivia and Alex gazed at one another, before turning back to address Blair’s question.  “That Casey and Abbie are no longer together,” Olivia replied.  “The evidence is only circumstantial, but it’s there.”  She shook her head.  “Not our business, really, but we’re concerned… especially since Casey isn’t even here.”

“You could just ask,” Jo stated.

“Yeah… somehow, I don’t think Abbie would take too kindly to that, and I haven’t been able to reach Casey,” Alex said, clenching her hands together when she felt them start to shake as Xena and Gabrielle emerged from the elevator and crossed to the center of the lobby.  Olivia reached out and took both hands in hers, stroking her thumb over the back until she felt Alex begin to relax.  Then she twined their fingers together and offered a half-smile.  Blair tilted her head in question.

“Is it bothering you that badly?” watching Alex’s blonde head shake rapidly in the negative.  “Then…?”

Alex flicked her eyes between Olivia’s warm gaze and Blair’s confused one.  She smiled wanly.  I, um… I….”  She blew out an impatient breath, then breathed in slowly.  “I’m going to try telling a story tonight.”

“That’s great!”
“How wonderful!”

Olivia turned and gave Alex her brightest smile.  “I told you….”

Alex stuck out her tongue, but didn’t release the hands she held.  “Yes, you did,” she admitted.  “It’s still scarier than presenting any case I’ve ever put before a judge.”

“So what story are you going to tell?  Or should I not ask?” Blair queried.

“Excuse me?” a young male voice spoke from behind Olivia.  They turned as a group to find Carter Grant standing behind them, looking mostly at the ground.  Olivia stepped forward and tilted her head down until she could catch his eyes.

“You’re Carter, right?” having seen him around in the lobby with his mom.  Everyone in attendance knew who Cat Grant was, though she did nothing to bring more attention to herself.  He nodded, meeting her eyes briefly before dropping his gaze back to the floor.  “My name’s Olivia, and I’m a police officer.  How can we help?”

“I was just wondering if you had seen my mom.  She told me to meet her here, but I can’t find her, and she’s not answering her phone.”

At his words, the others turned to search for Cat Grant, but instead, Jo spotted another blonde headed their way with intent.  “I’m not seeing Miss Grant, but we’ve got incoming at twelve o’clock.”  Everyone looked in that direction - even Carter - and his face lit up with a smile.  The woman visibly relaxed, but did not alter her speed or course. Carter stepped right into her embrace with a happy cry as she reached them.

“Kara!”

Kara Danvers folded Carter in a hug and lightly kissed his brown locks as she looked around the circle of women watching her.  She nudged the boy gently.  “Are you going to introduce me to your new friends, Carter?” giving him a smile.

“Oh… um….” he stammered, pulling out of her arms and straightening his clothing as he turned back to them.  

“We didn’t have a chance to be introduced,” Alex inserted, stepping forward with her hand extended.  “I’m Alex Cabot; this is my partner, Olivia Benson.”

“She’s a police officer, Kara,” Carter piped up, meeting Olivia’s eyes with a nervous smile.  She nodded and grinned back at him.

“And we’re Blair Warner and Jo Polniaczek,” Blair explained, offering her hand.  “Jo is also a police officer.”

“I’m Kara Danvers,” taking each hand in turn as she was introduced.  “I was Miss Grant’s assistant before she became Press Secretary,” glossing over the interim.  She looked at Carter.  “Looks like you chose well, Kid.  Let’s go find your mom before she sends out the big guns looking for you.  Ladies, it was a pleasure to meet you.”

“Thank you,” Carter said with a wave of his hand before he walked away with Kara.  The four women looked around and noticed the rest of the convention goers headed toward the front doors.  Without hesitation, they moved to follow along behind.

“Wonder if we’ll find out what that was all about.”

“Not if we’re lucky,” Jo quipped, and the rest agreed, knowing that kind of news generally ended up on television.  And no one wanted that.  With light chuckles, they checked in with Xena, and entered the waiting bus.

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

“You all right, buddy?” Kara asked Carter as they got into the elevator and he relaxed.

“Yeah.  Thanks, Kara.  Where’s my mom?”

“In her room - on a call with the President.”

Carter rolled his eyes.  “Of course she is.  I don’t think President Marsden is happy about her wanting to leave Washington.”

“Probably not.  Cat’s been good for the President’s image.  The press doesn’t get away with much with her at the podium.”  The elevator doors opened into a large hallway, and they stepped out, then crossed to the doors that led into the large suite.  Cat turned around at the intrusion when the doors opened without a knock, then her whole body relaxed, and she smiled as Carter and Kara walked into the room.

“I’m going to have to call you back, Olivia.  My son just got here.  Don’t worry about the other.  It’s under control, and I’ll make sure Anita understands what to do.  It’ll be fine.”  Several beats of silence, then…. “All right.  Will do.  Bye.”  She shut off her phone and dropped it to the table in front of her, opening her arms to her son, and gratified when he wrapped his arms around her without hesitation.  She held on tightly and breathed him in, glad beyond measure to see him again.  “Oh, my Boy… how was your day?  Are you all right?” leaning back to cup his face in her hands and look up into his eyes.  When did that happen? reminded again that her little boy was quickly growing into manhood.

“I’m fine, Mom.  I found some police officers downstairs and then Kara found me.”

Cat turned bright green eyes to her erstwhile assistant and smiled into bright blue.  “Thank you, Kara.”

“You’re welcome, Miss Grant,” said with a smile.  “If there’s nothing else….”

Cat rolled her eyes.  “You’re not my assistant anymore, Kara.  Go enjoy your evening.”

Kara nodded and gave a little wave as she stepped back into the elevator.  Cat turned back to her son, and they moved over to the couch to catch up on the time they’d been apart.  

The elevator doors opened to a surprisingly empty lobby, and Kara’s shoulders sank to realize she had missed the buses taking them out to the bonfire activity.  She’d really been looking forward to that.  She’d heard the most amazing things from her friends about Gabrielle’s abilities, and she’d been anxious to hear for herself.  She could reveal herself, she supposed, but it had been so nice to just be Kara again for the weekend.  With a sigh, she looked around… and met eyes equally blue.  She frowned.

“Diana?”  Diana Prince pushed off the railing she’d been leaning against and smiled as she reached out a hand the Kara accepted without hesitation.  “Diana?” she asked again as the taller woman tugged on the hand she held and led her toward the back where the parking garage sat.  “Where are we…?”

“I promised your sister and her girlfriend that I’d get you to tonight’s storytelling.  Xena and Gabrielle gave me the use of their rental car to get you there.”

Kara’s smile was broad, but tears flooded her eyes.  “But… why?  How?”

Diana chuckled and squeezed her hand, then released her and unlocked the doors as she went around to the driver’s side door.  “I’m sure Xena and Gabrielle will explain it all to you later, but trust me when I tell you that they are much more than they seem, and know more than anyone realizes.  They’re good friends to have, and they’re on your side.”

Kara blinked back her tears and tilted her head in confusion.  “I don’t understand.”

“I know.  But you will, Supergirl.  I promise.”

Kara stared at Wonder Woman for a long moment, then nodded her acceptance.  “All right, Di.  I trust you.”  She tapped the dashboard.  “Now let’s see what kind of horses this thing has under its hood.  From what I’ve heard, we don’t want to miss a thing tonight.”

Diana revved the engine and shifted it into reverse as she backed out of the parking place with a wide grin on her lips.  “You’ve got no idea.  Hang on tight.”  And then she peeled out of the garage to the accompaniment of Kara’s delighted laughter.


Chapter IX

Arthur Beaumont’s eyes widened, and he paled at least two shades when he saw the line of buses waiting to turn into the old family homestead.  Once upon a time - before he had married Nikki’s mother - this had been all the home he knew, growing up with his grandparents.  Only when he’d set out to make his own way in the world had he left this place, and he still maintained it as a weekend getaway.  Now he turned to his elder daughter and looked at her with a concerned expression.  He cleared his throat and stroked his mustache with a slightly shaking hand.  “Nikki, my dear, I didn’t realize you havin’ a few friends over meant a half the city would be comin’ out to the farm on buses,” not quite questioning, but not truly stating either.

Nora Delaney smiled broadly and clapped him on the shoulder - an action he tolerated because he genuinely liked Nora, and he loved how she adored his daughter.  “At least it’s not at the mansion,” she offered, referring to the Garden District house that had been in Nikki’s family for generations.  “All in all, it could be worse,” she assured him, and he swallowed hard as he understood how right she was.

He watched in bemusement as the buses came in and up the long drive one at a time, depositing its passengers before returning to the bottom of the drive and parking along the fence row.  Wendy and her compatriots from Las Vegas were directing the women around the farmhouse and back to the barn where everything had been cleared out and cleaned in preparation for the evening.  Now he understood why everything had been done on such a large scale - this event was going to be huge.

The food and drinks had been put into the barn, and a small, makeshift stage had been erected on one side with a sound system so involved he wasn’t quite sure he wanted to know what strings Nikki had pulled to accomplish it.  There were four massive bonfires roaring in a half-circle some ways away from the barn, providing plenty of heat and light and giving adequate space for folks to find a seat to listen to the storytelling that was to take place that evening.

He nodded his head.  “It certainly could,” he drawled in response to Nora’s words.  “Might I be allowed to meet the women responsible for this gatherin’?”  He hadn’t had an opportunity when this was being arranged.  Nikki and Wendy had handled everything, and since this property would one day go to them, he could hardly tell them no.  It didn’t make his curiosity any less, however.

“Of course, Daddy,” Nikki replied, tilting her head at Nora and smiling when she went out to find Xena and Gabrielle.  “I’m sure you could even stay for the stories if you wanted to take a listen.”

Arthur chuckled.  “I’m not sure a New Orleans businessman would be welcome at a women’s conference.  But I would certainly like to meet the organizers behind… all this.”

“Well, I can say with certainty that you would be welcomed as our guest of honor, if you would like to attend our get together tonight,” Gabrielle said with a smile as she approached him.  “After all… you made this possible.  I’m Gabrielle, and this is my mate, Xena,” extending her hand.  He accepted it and brushed the lightest kiss over her knuckles as he bowed.

“It is delightful to meet you, Gabrielle,” releasing her hand to do the same to Xena, who wasn’t quite sure how to respond to such old-fashioned manners.  “And Xena, was it?  Is it Greek, by chance?” smiling when she nodded and loosening his hold on her hand.  “Don’t look so surprised, my dear,” chuckling at her mostly hidden astonishment.  “I studied a bit back in the day - such rich history and amazin’ stories.  I think your name is lovely, and I’m charmed to meet you.  I’m Arthur Beaumont.  My daughters have been full of nothin’ but excitement since you announced you were bringin’ your conferences to our fair city.”

“They’ve been a godsend - wonderful hostesses,” Gabrielle replied, seeing that Xena was trying to maintain her equilibrium.  Arthur had blindsided them both by recognizing the Greek origins of Xena’s name; most didn’t… or they just accepted it was a throwback to a long, lost ancestor.  But the things he said - Gabrielle knew she wasn’t the only one shaken to the core by his casual knowledge.  “I don’t think we could have pulled off the Cons without them.”

“Well, we’re happy to have you all here tonight.  Please don’t hesitate to ask if there is anythin’ you need.”

“Thank you, Arthur.  We appreciate you welcoming all of us into your home.”

He laughed and shook his head.  “I’ve never been able to tell my daughter no.  Her having a sister that looks almost exactly like her?  Well, I couldn’t really say no to her either.  Thank you for bringin’ them together.  We’d have never known otherwise… I’d have never known.  And I wouldn’t have missed knowin’ Wendy for anythin’ in the world.”

Gabrielle gave him a blinding smile.  “I think it’s brought together a number of folks that have been part of our conferences over the years, and it’s been good for us as well.  Now, please join us,” she asked.  “At least for a little while. I think you’ll enjoy it… even if you’re part of a vastly outnumbered minority.”

He bowed his head again.  “I’d love to,” he admitted, “if you’re sure I won’t be imposin’.”

“You can’t impose if you’re invited,” Xena assured him.  “Now c’mon.  I’m sure Scud and Darius will be thrilled to have another man around.”

Arthur had cut his eye at Nikki at the mention of Darius’ name, but he knew, better that most, that despite whatever cultural issues he had with the man, Darius always took care of his little girl… and her partner.  He could forgive a lot for that.  “I’ll be delighted,” he stated, extending an arm to either side for each woman to take.  Then he gave his daughters a wink, and escorted Xena and Gabrielle toward the barn.  Wendy, Nikki, and Nora exchanged relieved smiles.

“That went better than expected,” Nikki sighed aloud, oofing when Nora backhanded her belly.  She turned a fierce, brown-eyed glare on Nora and raised a brow.  “Really, Sugar?”

“Yes, really, Nik.  Let’s not jinx things, all right?  Not in this town, especially this close to Halloween.  That’s just asking for trouble.”  Brown eyes widened in horror as she slapped a hand over her mouth.  Wendy just laughed and Nora shook her head and grinned.  “We can always hope that works, darlin’.” She took Nikki’s hand from her mouth and twined their fingers together, brushing a kiss over soft lips.  “Now let’s go.  I don’t wanna miss any of the storytelling tonight.”

“Glad it wasn’t me,” Wendy mumbled, accepting Nora’s other hand and reaching out her other to her friends, so they didn’t miss out either.

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

The evening had gone well so far.  Gabrielle had opened up the storytelling with several old, old stories… only changing the names to protect her and Xena’s identities.  Everyone had laughed and cheered in all the right places, and she was feeling really good about things when she opened up the floor for anyone who wanted to offer up their own tale.  Sam McPherson was first - as she had been every year since all those years ago when she’d first asked for a storytelling seminar… and the next year, when she’d asked for the chance to tell her own story.  As always, she was well-received.

Others followed - Alex Cabot; Janet Fraiser; Jordan Cavenaugh; Natalie Green; and Andy Sachs.  And each was welcomed and appreciated for their efforts.  Some were funny; others were poignant; most were a little of both.  But none of them were scary.  When they broke for another break, there was a feeling of lightheartedness and relaxation that permeated the atmosphere around the campfires.

Most of the women headed toward the barn to serve themselves some refreshment, grab a drink, or raid the one table that was stocked to the brim with s’mores supplies.  Nikki kept a judicious eye on things, not wanting to run out before the night was over.  She chuckled as she watched the piles shrink significantly, feeling justified about her decision to order double the recommended amount.  She knew the supplier had nearly had a come apart when she’d ordered.

“Share?” Wendy asked as she grabbed a beer, popping open one and passing it to her sister, before taking one for herself.  Nikki took a deep draught, then tapped her bottle to Wendy’s.  “Just thinkin’… we did a good job with this,” motioning to the table.  “Even if I did nearly give Lulu a conniption when I made the order.”  She laughed.  “She made me repeat it three times.”

Wendy laughed too.  “I’ll bet.  I was a little skeptical myself, but you were right.  And Dad seems to be enjoying himself too,” gesturing to where Arthur stood talking to Miranda Priestly and Natalia Rivera.

Nikki shook her head.  “He’s always been quite the ladies’ man… even with they’re lady ladies.” They laughed loudly, and Emma glanced their way as she passed through the barn… hoping to find Gabrielle before the last round of storytelling began.

She found her beyond the barn, leaning against the corral fence and looking out into the vast darkness that marked the acres of pastureland Arthur Beaumont owned on this property.  Emma walked up beside her silently, knowing Gabrielle would recognize her presence.  She stood silently for several minutes, staring into the darkness and wondering what Gabrielle really saw.  Finally, she cleared her throat.

“Gabrielle?”  Emma was nervous and shy and self-conscious – something rarely seen in the outspoken, confident young woman - though at fifteen, she was much closer to a beautiful swan than an ugly duckling.  Still, she felt awkward and embarrassed around Gabrielle and Xena, and it showed in almost everything she did and said when they were near.

Gabrielle turned and gazed at her with compassion, remembering her own growing pains and Xena’s patience with her.  She laid a gentle hand on her shoulder and watched a blush travel up her features at the innocent touch.  She squeezed lightly and offered a smile.  “What can I do for you, Emma?”

Emma shook her head and dropped her eyes to the ground in front of her.  “N... nothing.  I mean... nothing really.  I was just... I was just wondering if you’d tell us your version of the Headless Horseman tonight.  I… I mean – you’ve told us so many interesting stories, especially Halloween ones, and I was just hoping....”

Gabrielle smiled again, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm and merriment, though she tried to maintain a stern façade.  “Did Xena put you up to this?”

Emma blushed a fierce red, meeting Gabrielle’s eyes with horror in her own. “What?? No!!  No!!  I just... I thought....  Nevermind,” letting her eyes fall to the ground again.

“Hey... it’s all right.  It’s one of her favorites – she asks for it every year. I thought she might have asked you to ask for it, hoping it might get a better response.”

Emma peeked up at Gabrielle.  “What’s your normal answer?”

Gabrielle just rolled her eyes, and Emma laughed.  “In fairness,” Gabrielle continued, “She generally gets a private performance... just to save everyone her theatrics.”

Emma giggled again.  “Let me guess... she acts it out.”

Gabrielle laughed.  “A little bit, yeah.  She really loves to go riding at midnight,” making Emma laugh again at the indulgent face she made.  “However, I think I could work that into my repertoire for the evening,” laughing again when Emma pumped her fist.

“Yes!” she exclaimed, clapping her hands together and jumping up and down.  “Thank you, Gabrielle!”

“You’re very welcome, Emma.  If you want to let everyone know I’ll be along in another minute or two to do my last set of the evening?” letting the thought hang.

“Sounds like a plan,” Emma agreed before scurrying off.

“That was really nice of you,” Xena commented when she stepped from the shadows of the barn as Emma ran off to gather the rest.  “She has a crush on you, ya know.”

“She has a crush on us, Xe.  She just as nervous around you.”

“I figured she was afraid of what she thinks I might do if I knew about her crush on you.  It’s kinda well known how protective I am about what’s mine,” arching her eyebrow as her eyes raked Gabrielle’s body from head to toe and smiling at the involuntary goosebumps that followed in her wake.

“I never would have guessed,” Gabrielle replied drolly, though she couldn’t stop the flush that flooded her body at the caress of Xena’s eyes.  “But no, she definitely has a crush on you.  I recognize the symptoms,” eyes twinkling in delight.

“Do you now?” Xena asked as she put her hands on Gabrielle’s waist and pulled them together.  Gabrielle wound her arms around Xena’s neck.

“Um hmm.  I’ve seen her with Carter Grant, so I imagine she’ll grow out of it eventually... find someone else to fixate on.”

“You never did.”

“Neither did you.”

Xena nodded her head in acknowledgement, then captured Gabrielle’s lips for a timeless moment.  “I never would have,” she confessed softly, “even if you had.”

“Not a chance, Warrior Princess.  You’re mine... and I don’t share,” allowing their lips to meet again.

“All right, you two,” Helena Kyle broke in.  “Get a room.  You’re killing me here.”

They continued to kiss for another minute, then broke apart slowly, leaning their foreheads together for a long moment.  Finally, Xena looked over Gabrielle’s shoulder.  “Don’t be hatin’,” she said slowly, watching the horror dawn on Helena’s face at her verbiage.  She snickered, then sighed when Gabrielle pinched her side in admonishment.  “Aren’t you supposed to be at the bonfire?”

“Yeah.  So are you.  I was sent to fetch you – everyone’s waiting.”

“Go ahead, Helena.  We’ll be there in a minute.”

“All right,” she agreed after a moment.  “I’ll let ‘em know.”

They watched her walk off into the darkness in the direction of the stage on the other side of the barn from where they were.  They could just hear the noise of the women gathered there – chatting and serving themselves from the myriad of refreshments that had been provided, and squealing and laughing as they made s’mores.  Gabrielle turned back to Xena.

“I guess you need to go get ready?”

“For...?” as innocently as she could muster.  Gabrielle just arched an eyebrow in her direction, and Xena smirked.  “Oh... heh – no.  Not yet anyway.  I need to be sure people see me.  You know,” shrugging nonchalantly.  “Kinda kills the effect otherwise.”

Gabrielle took Xena’s arms and patted the warmth beneath her hands.  “I know.  Walk me over and stay with me by the stage for a little while.  I doubt anyone will notice when you slip away.”

“As you wish, my Queen,” Xena offered with a slight bow of her head.

Gabrielle just snickered and rolled her eyes before sticking her nose up in the air.  And the two carried on in such ridiculous fashion until they reached the other side of the barn, where many of the women had already resumed their seats.  When they were noticed, a loud cheer went up, and they were welcomed with enthusiasm.  Xena collected more food and drink for Gabrielle, then stood silently behind her as she began to tell her last set of stories for the evening.  There had been several requests and she was slowly retelling old favorites.  Only when she got toward the end did she stop to introduce her final story.

“Emma asked for a story I have yet to tell – the story of the Headless Horseman.  Unlike the legend of Sleepy Hollow, however, which involves a human searching for his head, my story tells the legend of a fallen angel.  Her job is one of protection... as well as one of vengeance.

You see, once upon a time, she was a mighty archangel – one of heaven’s most beloved.  But in her desire to be right, she killed an innocent... someone destined to be a great leader for humanity.  As a result, her head was removed from her shoulders to force her to look at things differently, and she was cast from heaven with a commission.  From that day forth, she would ride a black stallion, carrying her head under her arm or over her head.  She would ride unceasingly, looking for innocents to protect.  When she found them, only then could she stop riding long enough to exact justice.  She would lasso those she found guilty of harming innocents with the spine of the human upon whom she had last wreaked vengeance.

Once her chosen victim was lassoed, she would raise her fiery sword of vengeance against the perpetrator and sever their head, cauterizing the wound without spilling a drop of blood.  Then she would reach in and remove the spine from the neck with a jerk, leaving them wrapped in the old one while their head looked on unseeingly as the body crumpled to the ground.  Only then did her ride begin anew, as she searched for the next victim of the Headless Horseman.”

The women gathered around the bonfire were silent, horrified by the new twist Gabrielle had put on an old, mostly laughable Halloween tale.  The realistic earnestness in her tone made it hard not to take her at least a little seriously despite themselves.

A horse’s whinny in the near distance startled everyone, and they jumped, then laughed nervously at their own ridiculousness.  Then the sound of hoof boots coming closer caused them all to look around in terror.  A red-eyed, black stallion rode toward them, carrying a rider with glowing eyes tucked under an arm and a fiery sword raised in one hand.  From the hip, hung a rope that looked suspiciously to be made of sinew and bone.  It came no closer, merely observing them with a malevolent glance.

Finally, Helena shook her head and turned to Gabrielle, laughing nervously.  “That’s actually a pretty neat trick.  How did Xena do it?” feeling the relief flow through the women around her at her words and relaxing slightly herself.  At least until Barbara Gordon grabbed her hand and shook her head as she pointed behind Gabrielle.  There stood Xena where she had been every time Gabrielle had been telling stories, only now she was holding tightly to Emma’s hand.

“Houston, we have a problem,” Helena muttered.

Gabrielle and Xena exchanged glances.  In all the times Gabrielle had shared this tale, nothing like this had ever happened.  They had a feeling this was the start of something much, much worse than simply another ride of the Headless Horseman.

It was a much more somber group that boarded the buses when it was time to leave, though most of them put the exhibition down to theatrics arrange by either Xena and Gabrielle or Nikki and Nora to add a bit of authenticity to the evening.  Only a few knew the truth, though that circle would grow larger as time passed.

The game was afoot.

Part 2