Disclaimer & Notices
Copyright: Many of these characters do not belong to me, and we know which ones do not. I, however, own the plot and other certain characters.
Violence: There is violence in this story.
Subtext: Any subtext becomes main text here.

Summary: This dramatic epic opens up to Xena and Gabrielle's childhood when they are best friends with an growing friendship. One day, Gabrielle's hometown is attacked while Xena is visiting her. Xena tries desperately to protect Gabrielle but ultimately fails. Xena will not stop believing that Gabrielle is alive, and she hunts for her friend. Along Xena's journey, things become darker and lead her further from Gabrielle and the memories. Meanwhile, Gabrielle is taken into slavery but it isn't for some time before her luck comes back. She meets a very caring master, who sends her away to be schooled as a bard. Later, Gabrielle befriends a very unusual girl, and the girl claims to be an Amazon. It isn't long before Gabrielle discovers how real the Amazons are, and that she's fated to be more than just a slave.

Feedback: redhope@redhope.net
Homepage: http://www.redhope.net
List: http://tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/redhope/

Started: March 33, 2003
Ended: April 24, 2007
Series 9: Destiny of Mine – Story #1

To Find What was Mine
by Red Hope

Section Three
Part 5: Gabrielle's Fourth Year

"The pair continued their journey down the road, not really sure where this road would lead them." Gabrielle saw how the audience's faces were lit up and she concluded her story. "They weren't even sure what their next adventure would be but they did know they had each other." She suddenly smiled and proudly finished, "The Warrior Princess and her bard." She slowly bent forward and bowed to her fellow classmates.

The classroom of students all clapped and few cheered out for her successful story.

Gabrielle straightened up and her happy expression was glued in place by a huge smile. Her eyes finally focused on her best friend, Ephiny, who sat in the middle but off to the right.

The master bard was clapping as he approached the young bard. "Very nice, Gabrielle."

Gabrielle faintly lost her smile when she looked to the serious master bard. "Thank you, sir." He patted her back and she took that as the signal to go back to her seat beside Ephiny.

The master bard shifted in front of the class of twenty students. "As you see, everybody Gabrielle had a very smooth way of telling her story." He slightly smiled. "Although Gabrielle was nervous at the start she managed to control that."

Gabrielle was carefully listening to the master bard's assessment as she slid into her spot beside Ephiny.

"Nice job," whispered Ephiny and she patted her friend's leg. "You were wonderful."

Gabrielle felt relieved and her stomach started to unknot.

"Gabrielle also used her hands to help describe the story," continued the master bard. "Fortunately she didn't over use her hands or body motions to take away from her words." His eyes slightly rested on Stallonus, whom was known for over dramatics at times. He then glanced over at Gabrielle. "You did a nice job, Gabrielle but you still have plenty to work on." He did give her a warm smile. "You've made much improvement since last time."

"Thank you, sir," called back the young bard. She tried to hold back her smile when he spoke to her but it was undoubtable hard to do.

The master bard looked back at the students and asked, "Who is next?"

Ephiny chuckled and reached over to hold Gabrielle's hand in her own. "Aren't you glad that's over?"

Gabrielle grinned and sensed Ephiny's warm hand help calm her. "Yes, really glad."

The Amazon squeezed the smaller hand then released her hold as she looked up when Orion stepped up next. "Oh this should be good too."

"Better even," whispered Gabrielle.

Ephiny rolled her eyes and decided not to argue that Gabrielle was the best bard out of the class. She knew her attempts were fruitless but that's what she decided that made Gabrielle so good. The fact was that the slave never even recognized her own brilliance for story telling.

Ephiny had yet to approach the front of the class to tell her story. She decided she want to go near the end of the class because it would help her to decide on which story to tell. She felt rather nervous because this story telling was one of the large tests to see how much each student had learned. She was confident yet worried she hadn't picked up enough from the teachers but Gabrielle had reassured her on several occasions that she would be great up there.

Gabrielle dipped her head some and stared at her linked hand with Ephiny's. She tried to focus on Orion's story but her mind was slipping to sadder thoughts that she'd been trying to ignore. She tried to hold back her tears when her heart ached yet again because today was Xena's twentieth birthday. She attempted to force the thoughts away as she lifted her head back up.

Ephiny stole a quick glance and she saw how watery Gabrielle's eyes were and she didn't understand why. For the past three days her best friend had been rather upset and down but refused to explain anything. She knew this wasn't anything new however it bothered her. She offered some comfort by squeezing Gabrielle's hand then she started rubbing her thumb across Gabrielle's hand.

Gabrielle felt some comfort by her friend's idly caress but nothing to stop her emotions. She instinctively reached up with her left hand and tried to clasp the necklace Xena had given her almost three years ago. Yet her hand only touched her bare chest, her necklace long gone since the attack on her village. She'd never known how she lost her necklace but to this day it still seemed to weigh around her neck.

Ephiny took a steady breath then leaned over closer to her friend. "Are you okay?" she whispered. She almost thought Gabrielle didn't hear her but she finally saw Gabrielle nod. She inhaled deeply and straightened back up. Apart of Ephiny couldn't wait for the arrival of spring because it would bring not only new hope but also Gabrielle's sixteenth birthday. She was already considering plans to make Gabrielle's birthday something rather important and large in hopes it'd help her friend.

Gabrielle was rather worried not only with her work as a student bard but as an Amazon Princess. Ephiny had never felt so relieved to have Gabrielle accept the caste as princess until she saw how it bore more weight on the slave. Ephiny started to realize just how hard Gabrielle's life was and especially when she later met Hecuba during their fall vacation.

Ephiny and Gabrielle had stayed in the Amazon Nation for about five days and tried to get over Terries's death. Afterwards, they went to Cornelio's home outside of Articia and visited with them until they were due back at the Academy. For several months, Ephiny and Gabrielle continued with their education as bards and learned much until Solstice break arrived. This time, Ephiny and Gabrielle went their separate ways as Gabrielle went to Cornelio's while Ephiny went to the Nation for the Solstice season.

It wasn't until a few days before the infamous twelfth moon that Ephiny saw Gabrielle again when Gabrielle came to the Nation. Gabrielle had decided since she was the princess that she was expected to show up in the village during the Solstice break. Ephiny and Gabrielle then made their way back to the Academy three days after the twelfth moon celebration. And now for the past four days the class was taking various exams for the midyear and telling a story in front of the class and master bard was one of the tests.

After a few more bards' tales, the master bard decided to end the class and announced tomorrow would be the final day of tests and everybody was expected to complete their work. Ephiny and Gabrielle had tugged on their cloaks and walked out into the brisk winter air as they made their way across to their dorm.

"Wait up, girls!" called out Stallonus; behind him were Orion and Twickenham.

Ephiny and the Amazon Princess both stopped and waited for their friends to catch up.

Orion came up beside Gabrielle and slipped his arm through hers. "How'd you think I did?"

Gabrielle warmly smiled. "You were amazing." She continued walking to the dorm with her group of friends. "The master bard favours you."

"No he doesn't," protested Orion. "He likes you better."

Ephiny just rolled her eyes at the pair.

"Oh come on, Orion." Gabrielle laughed at her friend's disbelieving look. "I was the one that made him look dumb on the first day of class."

"That's t-t-true," agreed Twickenham.

"Yeah, you sure did show him," agreed Stallonus and he laughed. "I loved the look on his face."

"It doesn't matter." Orion brushed back a curly lock of hair. "Gabrielle is a natural talented bard." He suddenly grinned at the young Amazon Princess. "You'll have the 'A' out of the group."

The slave huffed at his confidence because she wasn't so sure herself.

"I know I won't," spoke up Stallonus. "The master bard hates me."

"Stall, you just have to control your acrobatics on the stage," persisted Ephiny.

"Yeah right," chided Orion, "That's like tell Twickenham not to stutter."

"Y-y-yeah," agreed Twickenham. "I c-c-can't help it-t-t either."

Ephiny sadly smiled and shifted closer to the young boy. She rubbed his back in sympathy. "I think I rather stutter or do acrobats on the stage than freeze-up."

Gabrielle glanced over at her friend then slightly shook her head. "You'll do fine, Eph."

"Just try to image everybody in just their britches," suggest Stallonus.

The Amazon groaned and her eyes closed as she tried to wipe away the mental image.

"Stallonus!" Gabrielle laughed at him and looked at Ephiny again. "Just focus on the story, Eph… that's all you need to do."

"I try," persisted the Amazon, "but it doesn't always work."

Orion slipped his arm free from Gabrielle and hurried up the steps of the dorm. He pushed open the door and let everybody in first. After everybody was inside, he closed the door and turned around. "Ephiny, we're all in the same boat as you," he reminded.

Ephiny sighed as she sat on the foot of Orion's bed. She scooted over some when Gabrielle sat down beside her. "Yes but I feel like an idiot every time."

"You're n-n-not." Twickenham sat down on the floor and rested his back against the foot of his own bed. "You're very g-g-good, Ephiny."

The Amazon smiled at him and felt warmed by his genuine comment.

"Just tell a story about the Amazons fighting the centaurs." Stallonus fell back into his bed but sat back up.

"I don't… think so, Stall." Ephiny chuckled and crossed her legs at her ankles.

"Do you know what you're going to tell?" inquired Orion. He moved over to Twickenham and sat down beside him.

Ephiny shrugged then replied, "I'm between two stories."

"Which ones?" urged Gabrielle; she nudged her friend with her elbow.

The Amazon chuckled at Gabrielle but she shook her head. "I can't say."

Before Orion could pursue the issue anymore, he heard a knock at the door so he yelled, "Come in." He suddenly felt a smile take his lips when Euripides entered. "Hey, Eurip."

"Greetings." Euripides kept his normal stoic expression as he joined the group. He slightly inclined his head to Gabrielle and said, "You outshined the average learning bard today."

Gabrielle felt her cheeks flush. "Thank you, Euripides." When she felt her blush settle back down, she added, "You did a wonderful job today too."

Euripides faintly smiled at the compliment and took a seat beside Orion and Twickenham while saying, "I do believe the master bard may not be so proned to agree."

"He will, you'll see." Gabrielle tried to reassure the young man with a confident smile.

"You just have to slow down with the big words," reminded Ephiny.

"Correct," agreed Euripides.

"And add-d-d more emot-t-tions too," reminded Twickenham.

Stallonus suddenly brightened up. "You could try adventures too, Eurip."

Euripides felt his confidence getting deflated really quickly.

Orion sighed at hearing all the rebukes his friends were making to Euripides. "Or you can just be yourself, Eurip."

Euripides lifted his head and one of his rare smiles shaped his face.

"Orion is right," agreed Gabrielle, "just be yourself."

Suddenly there was another knock at the door and they group knew it wasn't any of their friends. Ephiny slid off the bed and walked down to the door. She opened it and poked her head out into the wintry afternoon.

"Hi, Ephiny." Feodoras offered a smile. "Is Gabrielle around?"

"Yes." The Amazon had a concerned look when she noted how serious Feodoras was. "I'll get her." She turned around and called for her friend.

Gabrielle felt her stomach twist for no real reason but she hurried to Ephiny's side. "Hey, Feodoras."

"I need to talk to you, Gabrielle." Feodoras's eyes flickered to Ephiny then back to Gabrielle. "Alone."

The Amazon Princess swallowed but she nodded and buttoned her cloak as she stepped out of the dorm. After Ephiny closed the door, she went down the steps and curiously looked at Feodoras.

"I have some bad news, Gabrielle," carefully started the older man. "We received a letter today from your grandfather."

"Is he okay?" hastily asked Gabrielle.

Feodoras slightly nodded then saw how frightened the teenager had become. "It's your mother, Gabrielle." He paused as he tried to think of the right words to say but none could be right. "She's very ill… your grandfather doesn't expect her to live much longer."

Gabrielle felt this one strike her harder than anything else in a long time. "Gods… no," she rasped and she searched Feodoras face hoping it was some joke or dream. "She… can't be." Her eyes were already stinging. "She was just fine… when I left after Solstice."

"I know, Gabrielle." Feodoras reached in between his cloak and produced an open scroll. "That's why I brought your grandfather's letter." He held it out.

Gabrielle carefully took it, her hand trembling. She couldn't stand any longer so she took a step back and almost fell onto the bottom step.

Feodoras sadly watched but he bent down onto one knee and grasped the young woman's shoulder. "Your grandfather requested you return home for awhile." He searched Gabrielle's dulling green eyes. "The master bard granted it so you may leave tomorrow at dawn."

Gabrielle's lower lip quivered and she shook her head as her attention centred on Feodoras. "Thank you, Feodoras."

"I'm sorry," whispered Feodoras and after he squeezed her shoulder, he stood up and walked back to the Academy building.

After he was well out of distance, Gabrielle dropped her face into her hands and started to cry. The message from Cornelio rolled out of her lap and fell onto the frozen ground. Gabrielle remained on the step and cried for a long time and it wasn't until the creak of the door behind her caught her attention. She heard somebody coming down the steps but she didn't bother to look but warm arms wrapped around her and pulled her into their lap.

Ephiny exhaled deeply as she hugged her friend in her lap. She knew today was hard enough but whatever news that Feodoras just brought made it even worse. She lowered her head onto Gabrielle's and continued to rock their bodies together some. When she sensed the slave settling down, she whispered, "What's wrong?"

Gabrielle just shook her head and clutched Ephiny tighter.

The Amazon felt her heart drop but her eyes drift past Gabrielle and rested on the open scroll on the ground. She could just make out the handwriting and she was able to read the first paragraph. After she'd read it, she knew why her friend was so upset and it only made her tighten her hug on Gabrielle. "It'll be okay," she whispered in a shaky voice.

"No… no it won't," replied Gabrielle's muffled voice. "She's dying."

Ephiny closed her eyes and lowered her head back onto Gabrielle's. She felt her cheeks warm with hot tears when Gabrielle started to whimper. "Ssssh," she whispered and continued rocking their bodies. "It'll be okay, Gabrielle." She ran her hand up and down Gabrielle's cool back.

Eventually Ephiny was able to help Gabrielle into their bedroom and asked the boys not to bother them. The four boys were curious as much as worried about what happened to Gabrielle when they saw her but they said nothing. Instead the group broke up and went to dinner without the girls.

Ephiny put Gabrielle into her bed then she removed her boots and got into bed with Gabrielle.

Gabrielle instantly rolled over to face Ephiny and she buried her face into Ephiny's neck.

The Amazon pulled her friend into her arms and held her close as possible in hopes it'll help her fears. She didn't know what else to do or even say but her mind tried to come up with something. When she felt Gabrielle drift off to sleep from being so tired from crying, she slipped out of the bed carefully. Ephiny didn't waste a minute to put her boots on, grabbed her cloak, and ran across the campus to the Academy building. She went in search of the master bard or even Feodoras but she was lucky enough to find the master bard still in his office. She could only hope he would at least hear her out before saying no to her question.

The next morning, Gabrielle came out of her sleep and found she was being tightly held by strong arms. She opened her eyes and slightly pulled her head back to discover it was Ephiny, it made her smile sadly.

Ephiny felt the motion and gradually opened her eyes. "Hey," she whispered. "How you feel?"

"Like a herd of centaurs rolled over me," confessed the small bard. She then had a perplexed look but asked, "You stayed with me last night?"

"Yeah," quietly whispered the Amazon. "I was worried."

Gabrielle hugged her friend then released her but said, "Thank you."

Ephiny reached up and brushed back some of Gabrielle's stray hair. "You're welcome."

The slave sighed as her eyes dropped and stared at Ephiny's neck. "I have to head to Articia today."

"I know," uttered the Amazon.

Gabrielle lifted her eyes to meet with Ephiny's. "You know?"

"Not all of it," admitted Ephiny, "but enough to know what's going on." She paused and pressed her lips together. "I read the first part of the scroll." She inhaled deeply and carefully added, "I can go with you if you'd like, Gabrielle."

"But what about…."

Ephiny faintly smiled and answered the unfinished question. "I talked to the master bard, he gave me permission to go. I'll be doing my test when we get back."

"I…." Gabrielle felt her sore eyes actually sting again. "Thank you, Ephiny."

The Amazon hugged her friend briefly but released her. "We should get ready so we can go soon."

"You're right," sadly agreed the Amazon Princess. She forced herself to get out of bed and when her eyes rested on her desk, she noted the scroll from Cornelio sitting there. She looked over at her friend, who was at her dresser pulling clothes out. "Ephiny?"

The Amazon paused and turned around, an inquisitive look on her face.

"Thank you for last night."

Ephiny faintly nodded. She faced her dresser again and decided to wear her Amazon attire for the journey to Articia. From the corner of her eye, she saw Gabrielle debating about what to wear but she'd decided on her long brown skirt and sky blue top.

It wasn't long before the two young Amazons were dressed in travelling attire and had their saddlebags packed. Ephiny tossed her saddlebag onto the bed then looked over at her friend. "I'm going to take my short sword."

Gabrielle was tightening the buckle over the right flap on her saddlebag when Ephiny told her. "Are you sure?" She looked up from her bag and saw her friend was serious.

"Yes, I'll feel better if I have it." Ephiny knelt down and pulled up the sheet that draped over her bed. She reached under and pulled out the short sword then rose back up.

"Here." Gabrielle quickly came over and helped Ephiny hook the sword onto her back. "Make sure you put your cloak on before we step out of the room."

Ephiny slightly grinned and teased, "Yes, my princess."

Gabrielle just rolled her eyes and walked back to her bag. On the way over, she grabbed the scroll off her desk and shoved it away in her saddlebags. She went over to her desk again and picked up her cloak from the chair where Ephiny must have put it last night. She threw it on and turned around to find her friend had her cloak on too.

"Can you see it?" asked Ephiny. She turned her back to the princess.

Gabrielle shook her head. "No, you're safe." She tied her cloak into place under her chin as she walked to her bed again. "Are you ready?"

"Yeah… how about you?" Ephiny picked up her saddlebags and held it with both hands.

"Yeah, I think so."

Ephiny tilted her head as Gabrielle crossed over to the door with her saddlebags in arm. "We should tack up the horses first, eat, and then let the Feodoras know we're leaving."

The Amazon Princess slightly sighed but she knew her friend was right. "Okay." She opened the door and headed out leaving a baffled Amazon.

Ephiny decided Gabrielle was just trying to retain a strong composure so she let it go for now. She gathered herself and stepped out of the room but shut the door behind her. She saw none of the boys were in the dorm and she decided it was for the best. She hurried to the stables to catch up with Gabrielle and it didn't take either of them long to have the horses tacked.

Afterwards, the pair of friends went to the mess hall in the Academy building and had a brief breakfast. Ephiny also made sure to retrieve two rolls of bread incase she or Gabrielle got hungry on the ride to Articia. She knew it was only a day's ride but one could never be safe enough. The two girls then went to the main office where Feodoras would work. They let him know they were leaving and he wished them safe travels.

Gabrielle and Ephiny mounted their horses and quickly trotted out of the Academy grounds until they got on the road. Once they were far enough, Gabrielle spurred Torqueo into a full gallop. Ephiny sucked in a cold breath of air then urged her mare into a gallop to follow Gabrielle. Ephiny and Gabrielle rode non-stop to Articia and it wasn't until they approached the town did they slow down to a walk.

Ephiny came up along side Gabrielle. "Saddle sore?"

Gabrielle picked up on the light tease and it made her grin a little. "Not too bad." She looked at the young Amazon. "How about you?"

"About the same," admitted Ephiny. She shifted some in her saddle and felt her legs throb a little. "Not a sore spot at all."

The Amazon Princess could tell her friend was fairly stiff much like Gabrielle but she declined from saying anything. Her thoughts were on her mother and she wondered what her mother's condition was like. She knew she'd find out shortly.

Gabrielle swept a loose lock of her blond hair behind her right ear. She straightened up when she and Ephiny started down the short drive to Cornelio's home. The dirt road was perfectly straight and on both sides leafless olive trees lined the road. Gabrielle never realized how deathly winter could feel like until now as she took in how barren the fields look, the olive trees with no leaves, and the sky was a cloudy grey. The air was so chilled that it seemed to even nip at Gabrielle's heart.

Ephiny had fallen silent like Gabrielle as she took in the quiet grounds. She then realized on the porch of the large white house was a young girl, very young. "Who is that?" she whispered.

Gabrielle focused on the small girl on the porch, whom was sweeping everything clean. "I'm not sure." She considered everything for a moment.

"She mustn't be no more than ten years old," quietly observed Ephiny.

Gabrielle made no response but she agreed with Ephiny. She also had a fair idea that the girl was a new slave that Cornelio may have taken in to help. She looked over at Ephiny. "Let's go to the stables first."

The young Amazon's eyes flickered over there and she saw the stables just offset behind the house.

"Come on," urged Gabrielle and she pushed Torqueo to walk faster.

Ephiny briskly followed behind and she was still amazed by how nice the stables were. It took her all of five seconds to conclude that Cornelio had a lot of money since the stables were well kept, perfectly painted white, and some kind of coble stone was used as a floor in the stable except in the stalls.

After the girls had their horses untacked and settled in with some grain feed, they made their way out of the stables. They each had their saddlebags slung over their right shoulder and they approached the front of the house.

When Gabrielle came to the first step, she saw the small girl had frozen at seeing their arrival. "Hello," she gently greeted and smiled at her.

The small child stepped back and seemed to shield herself with her broom. Her eyes flickered from Gabrielle and to Ephiny at her side. She didn't like how Ephiny was dressed and perceived her as a threat.

"It's okay," reassured Gabrielle. She'd caught how scared the girl was of Ephiny and probably because of the Amazon attire underneath of Ephiny's cloak. "I'm Gabrielle."

The girl's eyes instantly widened in worshipping awe. "Grandfather said you would be coming."

Gabrielle took a step up but signalled to Ephiny to wait. "Yes, grandfather asked for me to come home because my mother is sick."

The girl instantly frowned and her head dipped forward. "Auntie Hecuba has been sick for awhile now." Her eyes lifted up to Gabrielle but her head was still tilted forward. "She spoke a lot about you during her long feverish nights."

Gabrielle felt a lump develop in her throat. "Is grandfather home?"

The girl slowly nodded and lifted her head back up." Grandfather is in his office."

Gabrielle nodded then she climbed the rest of the steps up to come to the top. "What is your name?"

"I'm Mary," quietly replied the girl.

"It's nice to meet you, Mary." Gabrielle held the young girl's gaze and she softly smiled at her. Gabrielle felt her heart warm to this girl because she reminded her very much of Lila but Lila was never quite as shy. "And...." She looked back and held her hand out to Ephiny. "This is my friend."

The Amazon slowly went up the steps and carefully approached the child. "Hi," she warmly greeted.

"H-hi." Mary shyly smiled at the teenager that seemed imposing but was very kind too.

Ephiny felt a smile take her lips and she knelt down onto one knee; she became eye level with the young girl. "I'm Ephiny."

"Ephiny?" repeated the small girl.

Ephiny just nodded her head.

Mary tilted her head and her curiosity got the better of her. She lowered her broom to her side and stepped up to Ephiny. She carefully and slowly stretched her hand out and her fingers wrapped around the feather in Ephiny's hair. "Why do you wear bird feathers in your hair?"

"Ephiny is an Amazon," explained Gabrielle; she then caught the rich brown eyes flickering up to her.

Mary's expression brightened when she realized Gabrielle also had a feather attached in her hair but it was further back so she hadn't seen it earlier. "You're an Amazon too, Gabrielle?" She'd released Ephiny's feather earlier and pointed at Gabrielle's one.

The princess felt a bit of nervous come into her. She also knelt down and adjusted the saddlebag on her shoulder. "Yes, Mary… I'm an Amazon too."

Once again that awed expression appeared on the child's face. Mary stepped closer to Gabrielle and grasped the colourful feather in her hand. "Does grandfather know you're an Amazon?" She saw the grin on Gabrielle's face and it made her giggle. "I bet he doesn't."

"No, Mary grandfather doesn't know I'm an Amazon." Gabrielle gently smiled as she reached up to take Mary's small hand into her own. "And you can't tell grandfather either. Okay?"

The girl frowned. "Why not? Grandfather should know everything… he loves us very much."

"Yes he does," agreed Gabrielle, "but I will tell grandfather I'm an Amazon when it's okay."

"Why isn't it okay right now?" insisted the child.

Ephiny inwardly chuckled at the curiosity the child had because it reminded her of Gabrielle's own. She was wondering how Gabrielle liked getting little of her own medicine. "Because Mary, right now Gabrielle's mother is sick and that's who we should be focusing on."

Mary studied Ephiny now and she slowly nodded her head. "Auntie Hecuba is very sick." Her frown grew deeper. "Grandmother and Auntie Maria are not sure she'll live."

Gabrielle felt the lump in her throat return and her stomach sank. "Take us to grandfather, Mary."

Mary nodded and stepped back then turned around.

Ephiny had lost her smile earlier and just quietly followed behind Gabrielle into the gigantic home.

Mary led them through the large house until they came to the far end in the hallway. She stopped at the closed double wood doors and she carefully knocked on it.

"Come in," called a deep male voice.

Mary pushed open a door but had a little trouble until Ephiny helped her. She paused and peered up at the Amazon. "Thank you," she whispered.

Ephiny smiled and pushed the door the rest of the way. "Go ahead, Mary."

Mary went in first, Gabrielle followed, and Ephiny came in last.

Gabrielle set her saddlebag down on the floor in front of the other door and took Ephiny's from hers.

Mary approached the large oak wood desk but stop in front as she watched Cornelio continue to write. "Grandfather?"

"Just a moment, sweetie." Cornelio continued scribbling something, his full attention on the scroll. Yet as he tried to finish his thought, he realized two bodies were behind the small child and a very familiar hand grasped Mary's shoulder. He lowered his quill quickly as he lifted his head. "Gabrielle," he breathed in relief and a smile broke out across his tired face.

Gabrielle returned the smile but worry shined in her eyes.

Cornelio was already out of his chair and he went around his desk.

Gabrielle met him halfway and she was swept into a warm embrace. She buried her face into his chest and her emotions surged to the top. She tightly closed her eyes and held onto Cornelio.

Ephiny dipped her head forward and put her hands behind her back. She felt a little out of place but at the same time she was happy Gabrielle had Cornelio in her life. She knew Cornelio had given so much to Gabrielle and he would continue to support her despite the brand on her.

"I'm so glad you made it, Gabrielle," whispered Cornelio. He loosened his embrace and peered down into emotional green eyes.

"How is mother?" Gabrielle's voice was shaky and raw with emotions.

"Not well at all," sadly replied Cornelio. He finally separated from Gabrielle but he remained close so he could physically look over her. "You look well though, Gabrielle."

The small bard nodded her head. "I have been… well until…" She didn't bother to finish her words; instead she held her hand out to Ephiny. "Cornelio, I'd like you to meet Ephiny."

Cornelio straightened up and clearly inspected the young Amazon that flanked Gabrielle's side.

Ephiny approached the older man and held out her hand. "It's nice to meet you, sir."

"I've heard a bit about you, Ephiny." Cornelio took the offered hand and briskly shook. "Gabrielle spoke highly of you when she was here for Solstice."

Ephiny felt her flush even though she tried to hide her embarrassment. She released the much larger hand and replied, "Well Gabrielle can talk."

Cornelio heartedly laughed.

Gabrielle shot a glare at her friend for the remark.

Cornelio settled down and a soft smile swept his lips. "Gabrielle mentioned you are an Amazon." He'd already noted the revealing leathers she wore under her cloak.

"Yes, I am," replied the proud Amazon.

"Grandfather, did you see Ephiny's feather?" spoke up Mary from her spot behind the group.

Cornelio's expression brightened at the young girl. "Yes, sweetie I did." He bent forward and held out his arms.

Mary took the invite, came over, and had the sensation of flying as Cornelio lifted her up. She then was lowered onto the edge of the desk and she wiggled more onto the desk.

Cornelio took the broom from Mary's hand and set it aside. "Mary, were you outside sweeping?"

"Yes, grandfather."

Cornelio thoughtfully rubbed his trimmed, white beard and studied the girl. "Did you wear your cloak outside?"

Mary's eyes dropped. "No, grandfather."

"See that you do for now on… I don't want you getting sick."

The girl just nodded her head but she straightened up again.

At the mention of sicknesses, Gabrielle let out a deep sigh.

Cornelio heard it and knew what was on Gabrielle's mind. "Gabrielle, you should go up to see your mother." He now faced the teenager. "She's missed you."

"I know," whispered the Amazon Princess.

Cornelio looked back at Mary and held out his hands again. "Mary, take Ephiny and Gabrielle upstairs, please." He locked his eyes with the small girl. "Gabrielle and Ephiny are staying in the guestroom. You remember where that is, right?"

"Yes, grandfather." Mary was suddenly lifted off the desk and lowered back to the floor.

"I'll speak to you soon, Gabrielle," reminded the older man. His dark eyes then went to Ephiny. "I'm glad you came, Ephiny."

"Thank you, sir," politely replied the Amazon.

Mary had already retrieved her broom from earlier and was headed towards the doors.

Ephiny and Gabrielle followed behind while Cornelio went back behind his desk. The two Amazons collected their saddlebags and quietly left the office. Mary led them upstairs and made a right at the top of the steps.

Gabrielle had climbed the steps and paused at the top, she gazed off to her left at the end of the short hall. She knew her and mother's old room was down there. She slightly jumped when Ephiny touched her back.

"Come on," whispered the Amazon.

The princess nodded her head, turned right, and followed Ephiny down the long hallway.

Mary was already at the door to the guest bedroom. "How long are you staying, Gabrielle?"

The small bard gave a faint smiled and replied, "I'm not sure, Mary."

Ephiny stepped forward and opened the bedroom door. She quietly went inside and lowered her saddlebag onto the bed. She sensed Gabrielle behind her and she took Gabrielle's saddlebag from her.

"Would you like to see Auntie Hecuba?" asked Mary. "She's usually awake by now."

"Yes, Mary." Gabrielle then glanced at Ephiny in question.

Ephiny just shook her head then whispered, "I'll take care of our stuff while you visit."

"Thanks, Eph." Gabrielle then looked at Mary and held out her hand.

Mary understood the signal and took the larger hand into her own. She then led the teenager out of the room and down the hallway.

Ephiny stepped into the doorway and simply watched her friend walk down the hallway, hand in hand with Mary. Ephiny let out a heavy sigh as she folded her arms over her chest. She knew what Gabrielle was going through with losing her mother and it worried Ephiny. She couldn't imagine how Gabrielle would react after the initial shock. Between Gabrielle's slavery, the loss of her sister, and now her mother's sickness would just build on Gabrielle. How much could her friend take before she broke?

Mary stood on her tiptoes and turned the doorknob but it was Gabrielle whom opened the door. The girl then silently directed Gabrielle into the darkly lit bedroom.

"Who is that?" called a scratchy voice.

"It's me, Auntie Hecuba," called the small girl.

Hecuba pushed up in her bed a little to get a clearer view and her eyes adjusted to the darkness in the room. She quickly realized somebody else was with Mary and for the first time in several days, her expression brightened. "Gabrielle."

Gabrielle squeezed Mary's hand then released it. She came over to her mother's bed and came into a better view for Hecuba. "Hi, mom."

Hecuba's smile grew more when she saw Gabrielle's face better and even better when Mary had open the shades by the window. "You look beautiful as ever, honey."

Gabrielle sadly smiled then leaned forward. She embraced her mother in a strong but gentle hug. "How are you, mom?"

"I'm better, honey," replied Hecuba but her words were a clear lie for Gabrielle.

The young bard sadly smiled and she eased herself down onto the edge of the bed by her mother's side. "Cornelio said you were sick," she whispered.

"Just a bad cold," refuted Hecuba.

After Mary had opened the shades by the window, she'd gone to the bed on the opposite side of the room. She'd climbed up into it and quietly sat but fiddled with the stick of her broom.

"How is the Academy?" inquired Hecuba in a low, raspy voice.

"It's going well," replied Gabrielle. Her right hand stretched out and she brushed back a stray, slightly matted piece of her mother's dirty blond hair. "We just finished exams."

Hecuba smiled happily at the news. "How'd you do?"

"I'm not sure yet," confessed the small bard, "but I think I did well."

"I'm glad," replied the proud mother. She reached forward and clasped her hands with Gabrielle's.

Gabrielle remained silent as she studied her mother's worn face. She could see the dark circles that developed under her mother's eyes. It also seemed as if her mother had aged by ten to fifteen years, her skin more wrinkled than normal, and even her fingers were thinner.

"You've done well at the Academy so far," finally mentioned Hecuba.

"I am trying," encouraged Gabrielle, a faint smile on her lips.

"I know you are." Hecuba squeezed her daughter's hands tightly.

Gabrielle squeezed her mother's hands back and she took a moment to appreciate her mother's crisp green eyes. She knew she could thank her mother for receiving the same radiant and bright green eyes but right now wasn't the time. Instead she noted the deep sadness hidden in them and it sank in Gabrielle's stomach like a heavy boulder. "I think I'll be staying for awhile, mom."

"Honey, you need to be at the Academy." Hecuba had shaken her head in protest and now tried to sit up better but it took too much energy.

"Rest, mom." Gabrielle had freed her right hand and pressed it against her mother's shoulder. "You need to relax." When her mother agreed by lowering back down, she pulled her hand away. "And don't worry about school… the master-bard said it's okay." She noted her mother gave out a sigh of relief.

"I'm glad to hear that," agreed the mother. She shifted a little to get more comfortable. "How is your friend Ephiny?"

"She's great, mom… actually she came with me."

Hecuba's smile suddenly reappeared. "She travelled with you?"

"Yes," answered the bard, "she's here."

"I would like to meet her."

Gabrielle simply nodded but said, "Later, I promise."

The mother let out a faint sigh yet she softly grinned "You're always looking after your mother."

"Always," promised Gabrielle. She leaned forward and kissed her mother's forehead. "You should rest some more, mom."

"Yes," quietly agreed Hecuba. "I feel tired already."

"I know," whispered Gabrielle as she squeezed her mother's hands. "Dinner will be in a few candlemarks so I'll bring it up to you."

"Thank you, honey." Hecuba pulled her covers back up when she felt a cold chill settle over her.

"Sleep well, mom." Gabrielle again bent forward and placed a kiss to her forehead. She then rose up and looked over at Mary.

Mary knew it was time to leave so she slid off the bed and went to the door. She sensed a warm hand touch her midback.

Gabrielle took one last look back at her mother then her eyes flickered over to the open window. She decided the curtains were best left open so her mother would feel better at seeing the sunlight and not so cooped up. She turned back to the already open door and ushered Mary out first. Gabrielle closed the door behind her then focused on the small girl. "Do you have to finish your duties?"

Mary briskly nodded her head, her brown hair falling around her face.

"Okay, go ahead and finish up. I'm sure I'll see you soon."

Mary faintly smile then hurried off to finish her small chores.

"And if you go outside, put your cloak on," called Gabrielle.

Mary was at the top of the stairs but she paused and smiled at Gabrielle.

Gabrielle merely smiled back then watched her disappear down the steps. She then wondered down the long, lonely hallway until she came to her and Ephiny's room. She grasped the cold brass doorknob but she hesitated as she gazed down the hall to her mother's room. After an emotional sigh, she opened the door and went inside to find Ephiny resting on the bed.

Ephiny opened her eyes and turned her head to Gabrielle. "Hey," she quietly greeted.

Gabrielle admired her friend on the bed for a moment then let out a smaller sigh. "Hey." She came over to the bed and crawled into it.

The young Amazon unfolded her arms and opened them in offer.

The bard didn't wait to fall into her friend's arms and become surrounded by her warmth.

Ephiny tightly held on to Gabrielle and kissed Gabrielle's temple. "How is she?" she whispered.

Gabrielle had her face dug into Ephiny's neck but now she pulled back and rested the side of her head against Ephiny's chest. "Very sick, Eph."

"Mmmm." Ephiny tightened her embrace then wrapped her legs over Gabrielle's. "It'll be okay."

Gabrielle didn't have as much faith and she merely buried her face back into Ephiny's neck. She squeezed her eyes shut and tried to not think about her sick mother but it was too hard. She let out a ragged breath and whispered, "She won't make it, Ephiny."

"Sssh." Ephiny again kissed Gabrielle's temple and soothingly rubbed Gabrielle's back. "It'll be okay… promise."

Gabrielle knew it was a futile promise but it did reassure her just a little because she knew Ephiny was there for her. Her arms tightened around Ephiny's side and she worked hard to lock down on her emotions just as she had in the past on many occasions. She couldn't believe this was happening to her when she'd already lost so much. Hadn't she given enough sacrifices in her life already?

For about a candlemark, Gabrielle and Ephiny remained in that position until Gabrielle rolled off Ephiny. Ephiny though didn't let her get away and instead rolled to her side and pulled Gabrielle into her arms. At first Gabrielle didn't give in until Ephiny's kissed her cheek only then did Gabrielle turn in Ephiny's arms and wrapped herself tightly around Ephiny.

The young Amazon held Gabrielle and it wasn't even fifteen minutes when Gabrielle dozed off. Ephiny sadly smiled at her sleeping friend then closed her own eyes. The young pair slept for a little over a candlemark before either one of them awoke. Gabrielle was the first to wake up and she felt a little better at getting some sleep. She lifted her head and glanced out the window to see it was near sunset and she knew dinner would be served soon.

"Ephiny," whispered the bard.

The sleeping Amazon mumbled something incoherent.

Gabrielle grinned a little then reached up to brush back some of Ephiny's long locks of curly blond hair. "Come on, featherhead… wake up."

"I heard that," muttered the Amazon.

The bard chuckled when rich amber eyes focused on her.

"You're a featherhead now too," reminded Ephiny.

The Amazon Princess smirked and teasingly replied, "At least I'm not by birth."

Ephiny chuckled then decided to tease Gabrielle back. "Wait until you have a girl and she's old enough. I'll torment her as a featherhead since she'll be direct line."

Gabrielle merely rolled her eyes and patted Ephiny's side. "You wish, Eph." She then quickly rolled out of her friend's arms and got out of bed.

The young Amazon gave a grunt then got out of bed too. "You think I should change out of my leathers?"

"Up to you," offered Gabrielle.

Ephiny lifted an eyebrow from the opposite side of the bed. "You're the princess so I have to follow your orders."

"Like you would anyway," taunted the princess. She then brushed off Ephiny's question with a wave of her hand and said, "Keep them on, Eph."

"Yes, my princess," teased Ephiny as she came around the bed. "I think I'll put my cloak back on… it's a bit chilly."

"I know," agreed Gabrielle. She'd kept hers on while she was in bed earlier, too lazy to bother with it. She glanced over at Ephiny, who was getting her cloak, and Gabrielle realized Ephiny had taken her sword off. She scanned the room quickly and saw Ephiny's sheathed short-sword tucked under the Amazon's saddlebags. "I'm glad you removed your sword." Her eyes lifted and locked on Ephiny.

The young Amazon nodded and came over as she tugged on her cloak. "Yeah, I didn't think it was polite to wear it around." She straightened the collar out on her cloak. "You think Cornelio saw it?"

Gabrielle quickly shook her head. "Your cloak covered it."

"Thank Artemis," whispered Ephiny in relief.

"Come on… let's see what's happening down stairs." Gabrielle left the room with Ephiny at her side.

Together they went down stairs and Gabrielle decided the kitchen would be the best place to start. She slipped into the kitchen with Ephiny behind her. She and Ephiny were instantly surrounded by the wonderful smells of a cooking dinner.

Gabrielle smiled some when she saw Maria and Adara looked to her and Ephiny.

"Gabrielle," happily greeted Maria and she quickly left her pot of boiling water to hug the teenager. "I'm happy you're home."

Gabrielle nodded and gave a half smile. She then was embraced by Adara as well. When she broke the hug with Adara, she asked, "Do you need help cooking?" Her eyes flickered over to Maria.

"I think Maria could use a break," replied Adara, "so she can check on Joseph."

"Joseph is fine, mother," called back Maria. She stole a quick look at her mother-in-law then at Gabrielle.

"No, Adara is right," argued Gabrielle. She came over and took over Maria's duties.

Maria came over to the door and for the first time noted the young Amazon. "Oh my, I'm sorry." She smiled warmly at Ephiny, wiped her hand on her apron and held out her hand. "I'm Maria."

Ephiny shyly took the large hand and gave a good shake. "I'm Ephiny."

Adara was beside Maria and her face broke out with a smile. "You're that young Amazon."

Ephiny instantly blushed.

Gabrielle rolled her eyes and looked back at the cooking water. She knew it was being cooked and warmed up for a soup.

"Yes I am," replied Ephiny in a small voice.

Maria and Adara took several minutes to quiz the Amazon while Gabrielle took over watching over the dinner. Eventually Maria left to check on her son while Adara returned to slicing up the vegetables for the soup.

"Have either of you seen Mary?" inquired Adara from the other side of the kitchen.

"No," replied Gabrielle.

Ephiny was sitting at the small kitchen table set off to the side.

"Hey, Eph…" Gabrielle gazed over her shoulder at her friend. "Can you go find Mary?"

"Yes m-"

"Ephiny," warned the bard in a low tone.

The young Amazon hid her wince when she remembered that nobody knew of Gabrielle's Amazon caste. She quickly excused herself and left the kitchen to find Mary.

Adara was quiet for awhile then finally spoke up. "Your mother hasn't been well."

Gabrielle held back her sigh and only nodded.

"Did you visit with her?" urged Adara. She looked over at her slave and felt her heart drop at how distraught Gabrielle was right now.

"Yes," quietly answered the bard. She picked up the bowl of thick powder on the counter and carefully dumped it into the pot of hot water. She started mixing it in carefully. "Adara?"

The older woman looked up from her cutting.

Gabrielle paused in her stirring motion and her eyes met Adara. "Do you think mother will die?"

Adara studied Gabrielle then her gaze eventually dropped. "She's only been getting worse," she honestly confessed.

Gabrielle didn't say anything or even nodded as she went back to the soup.

It wasn't for another candlemark until the dinner was ready and everybody, but Gabrielle, sat down at the table in the main dining hall. Gabrielle had taken two bowls of soap, bread, and utensils so she could eat her meal with her mother. That had left Ephiny alone with Cornelio, Adara, Maria, and Mary; she wasn't sure what to say so she remained fairly silent. It wasn't until halfway through her meal that Cornelio addressed her and he began his quizzing about Ephiny's lifestyle as an Amazon.

Ephiny noticed he was genuinely interested about the Amazon Nation and not prying. Near the end of the conversation, she was well convinced he actually accepted the concept of female warriors. She wasn't sure why he would but for some reason it stuck in the back of her mind that it had to do with all the women in his life. As Ephiny gazed about the dinner table, she understood now that Cornelio had a house full of strong willed women. And it seemed as if not only did Cornelio condoned it but inspired it for whatever reason. By the end of dinner, Ephiny had decided she really liked Cornelio and that he was probably one of the best people to come into Gabrielle's life.

Ephiny remained in the kitchen after dinner and helped Adara and Maria clean up. She would have felt guilty if she disappeared without offering some kind of help since they let her stay in the house. They all seemed to pick a particular duty: Adara stored away what food she could, Maria washed dishes, Ephiny dried them and handed them to Mary, whom put them away. Ephiny inwardly smiled at the order of operations and for some reason it brought a sense of home and family into her life. She secretly admitted to herself that being a little domestic wasn't all that bad as long as she agreed to it without being forced. She now understood it was a good way to get to know people and spend time with them as she was doing with Adara, Maria, and little Mary.

When they were almost finished cleaning up the kitchen, Gabrielle arrived with her dirty dishes. She handed them over to Maria and thanked her and Adara for dinner. Ephiny slipped closer to her friend and asked Gabrielle how her mother was tonight. Gabrielle had only replied with a sad 'okay' then kissed Ephiny on the cheek for her tenderness. Gabrielle then quietly left the kitchen and went back upstairs.

Ephiny blinked after Gabrielle had left. Never once had she received that type of affection from Gabrielle but she pushed it to the back of her mind. When she was finished in the kitchen, she said goodnight to Adara and Maria then went upstairs with Mary at her side.

"Is Gabrielle okay?" inquired the small girl as she lifted herself up each step, one at a time.

Ephiny smiled at Mary. "She'll be fine, Mary."

Mary sighed and put a lot of effort into getting up the next step. "Auntie Hecuba is not doing well… Gabrielle is upset."

"Yes she is," quietly agreed Ephiny. She shifted closer to the girl and bent down to one knee. "Come here, sweetie."

Mary came over to the much larger girl and was lifted into strong arms.

Ephiny hefted Mary up into her arms and briskly climbed the steps at a fast rate. "So do you know much about the Amazons, Mary?"

"I heard that you can turn into birds," whispered Mary, her eyes wide.

Ephiny almost laughed but there was a huge grin on her face. "Yes, that's why I have a feather in my hair."

"Really?" breathed the small girl in awe. "You can turn into a bird?"

The young Amazon's eyes just glowed at the child's enthusiasm. "It's a secret though, Mary… you can't tell anybody. Do you promise?"

Mary vigorously nodded her head then wrapped her slender arms around Ephiny's neck; her legs already locked around Ephiny's waist. "Can Gabby change into one too?"

Ephiny chuckled at the nickname the child just gave Gabrielle. "Yes, Gabrielle can too."

"Wooow," breathed out the child in awe. She looked at Ephiny as if she were Artemis herself. "Can you show me?"

Ephiny suddenly frowned and shook her head. "No, sweetie I'm afraid I can't as much as I want to."

"Why?" persisted the child.

"Because Artemis only likes us to do it when it's right to." Ephiny paused then added, "We're not allowed to do it for fun but only when we need to."

"Like if you're endangered or need to travel far?" asked the curious girl.

"Exactly," agreed Ephiny. She smiled then came to a stop by her door.

"Could you always become a bird?" further asked Mary.

Ephiny shook her head as she freed her right hand to grasp the doorknob. "No, sweetie… Artemis has to give us that power."

"You've met Artemis?"

The young Amazon chuckled as she pushed the door open. "No I haven't." She stepped into the bedroom to see Gabrielle sitting at a desk by the window; she was working on one of her scrolls. "Gabrielle?" she called.

The small bard pulled away from her scroll and looked at Ephiny. A smile instantly grew on her face at seeing the young child in Ephiny's arms.

"Mary wants to know how Artemis gave us the ability to turn into birds."

Gabrielle looked from the child and stared at Ephiny as if she had three heads. Ephiny lifted an eyebrow for emphasis then suddenly Gabrielle laughed and she smiled warmly at both Ephiny and Maria. "So Auntie Ephiny told you about our secret, Mary?"

Mary's face exploded with a full smile and her eyes lit bright. "Yes, she did."

"Now, you can't tell anybody, Mary… right?" Gabrielle stood up from her chair and approached the two. "Only Amazons are suppose to know about this but Ephiny and I trust you to keep a secret."

Mary thoroughly nodded her head then said, "I won't tell a soul, Gabby."

Gabrielle's smile turned lopsided at the nickname. "You promise?" she urged.

Ephiny chuckled as she stepped closer to the bed and lowered Mary onto the bed.

Mary scooted more onto the bed but her legs dangled off. "I won't, I promise."

"Okay," agreed Gabrielle and she came closer to Ephiny. "So you want to know how Artemis gave us the power to be transformed into birds?"

Mary bobbed her head up and down. "Please please, Gabby."

"Alright." Gabrielle had her hands on her hips then suddenly dropped them. "You see, when an Amazon is first born, Artemis comes down from Mount Olympus."

"What does Artemis look like?" interrupted the girl.

"She's beautiful," replied Gabrielle.

Ephiny nodded her head. "She's tall, Mary."

"Taller than you, Auntie?"

The young Amazon nodded and stretched her arm high up. "Much taller! About to here."

"Wow," squealed Mary.

"And she has hair dark as the night," added Gabrielle, "her eyes are a bright green."

"Like yours," clarified Mary.

"Yes but even brighter than mine." The small bard stepped closer to Mary, bent down to one knee and grasped Mary's knees. "When she looks at you, her eyes locked on yours, you can't help but fall into them. And if you stare long enough into her eyes, you'll be able to see a forest in them."

Mary breathed deeply and she almost thought she saw the trees and grass reflecting in Gabrielle's eyes.

Gabrielle slowly rose up as she spoke again. "Artemis wears gold plated armour and a sword at her side."

Ephiny stepped a little closer. "And on her back, Mary is a large bow that's almost as tall as her and she uses arrows with golden tips."

"She sounds beautiful," breathed out the child.

"She's one of the most beautiful on Mount Olympus," agreed Gabrielle. "Artemis is the best female warrior and she is very, very protective of her Amazons."

"Is that why she helps Amazons turn into birds?"

"Yes," replied Ephiny, "because she knows how much we fight and must have ways to protect ourselves."

"Exactly," agreed Gabrielle, "and Artemis's Amazons are born with the ability to turn into birds."

Mary suddenly had a confused look. "But Auntie Ephiny said that Artemis had to give each Amazon the ability."

"They do," hastily replied Gabrielle, "because when an Amazon is born, Artemis descends from Mount Olympus as a bird herself."

"A big bird too," piped in Ephiny, "bigger than any other bird in the wild. And she's amazingly beautiful as a bird too."

Gabrielle nodded her agreement. "When she comes down from Olympus, she perches on a tree just outside the hut where the Amazon mother is giving birth."

"What does she do?" whispered Mary.

Ephiny knelt a little and said, "She cranes her neck out like this." She stretched her neck out and narrowed her eyes "And just watches the baby Amazon's birth just to make sure the baby and mother are okay and happy."

Mary happily smiled at that.

Ephiny straightened up and said, "Then Artemis swoops down onto the ground and transforms into her human form." She glanced over at Gabrielle to take the lead.

"Artemis then goes into the hut after the healer has left." Gabrielle took a step closer to Mary. "She then comes to the mother's side of the bed and smiles down at her and the baby Amazon."

Mary stared up at Gabrielle, utterly memorized by the story.

"Artemis then will lift her hand and place it on the baby's chest." The small bard lifted her own hand and put it on Mary's chest. "She blesses the child and gives her the caste as a true Amazon of Artemis."

Mary sucked in a deep breath and felt as if Gabrielle was doing just that to her.

"And then very slowly, Artemis will lower her head…." Gabrielle bent her head forward. "Her lips touch the baby's forehead." She pressed her lips briefly against Mary's forehead then straightened back up. "In the instant of contact, Artemis bestows the baby Amazon with the ability to turn into a bird."

Mary's eyes suddenly switched to Ephiny when she moved closer and spoke.

"Afterwards, Artemis whispers a word of thank you to the mother Amazon then quickly walks out. And as soon as Artemis steps out of the hut, she transforms into a bird and flies off back to Mount Olympus."

Mary suddenly let out her breath she'd been holding since earlier.

"But that's not all of it," cut in Gabrielle, who knelt down again. "When Artemis flew off she also left behind a beautiful feather of all colours from her own tail feathers as a gift and symbol to the baby Amazon. And when the baby Amazon is old enough, the mother takes the feather and ties it into their hair."

Mary was so taken with the story and all she did was stretch her hand out and took Gabrielle's feather into her hand.

Ephiny was happily smiling with her arms folded over her chest. She admired the scene of the wonder struck child and how her attention was being held by Gabrielle and the feather.

Mary blinked and finally let go of Gabrielle's feather. "I wish I could turn into a bird."

The small bard softly laughed and clasped the girl's tiny hips. "There are many better things than just turning into a bird."

"Like what?" asked Mary, her eyebrows creased together.

"Like family," replied Gabrielle in a warm voice. "Artemis can give us the ability to turn into birds but she could never give us a family."

Mary looked down at her legs then lifted her head back up. "I wish I knew who my real mother and father were."

"I know," whispered the bard, "but sometimes families change and it turns out for the better."

Mary had lost her frown and started to smile now. "Yes, I have grandmom, grandfather, Auntie Maria and Auntie Hecuba." Her smile grew even wider. "And you're my big sister plus Auntie Ephiny… even Joseph."

Gabrielle softly laughed and reached up to brush back a stray strand of Mary's brown hair. "See? You have a very big family."

"I do." Mary was swinging her feet gently and felt better now. "Thank you, Gabby and Auntie Ephiny for the story."

"You're welcome," replied Ephiny.

Gabrielle quickly stood back up and stated, "And it's time for bed, Mary."

Mary's shoulders slumped but she nodded her head. "I am tired."

"I know." The Amazon Princess picked up Mary and put her on her feet. "Come on, sweetie."

"Will you tuck me into bed?" insisted Mary; she took Gabrielle's hand.

"Welllll...."

"Please?" begged the small girl.

Ephiny chuckled when Gabrielle looked at her for help. She just shrugged in response.

Gabrielle let out a sigh but she was smiling. "Okay. Let's go." She led Mary out of the bedroom.

The young Amazon stayed behind and when her friend and Mary left, she just chuckled to herself. She then decided it was time to get ready for bed too even though it was a little early for her. She figured when Gabrielle got back they would probably do some talking like always.

After Ephiny changed, she crawled into bed and got under the cool covers that quickly warmed around her body. She closed her eyes and it wasn't long before she started to drift off but the door's creak made her open her eyes again.

The small bard slipped into the room and quietly shut the door. "Hey."

"Hey," greeted the young Amazon. "Ready for bed?"

Gabrielle simply nodded and crossed over to her saddlebags near the desk. She took a second first to roll up her scroll and placed her quill next to it. She then knelt down and dug through her clothes until she found her clean shift. After she was out of her clothes and in her shift, she blew out the surrounding candles on the walls. "Brrr it's cold."

"I know, get in bed." Ephiny blinked when the darkness fell over the room but she lifted the sheets some when she saw Gabrielle's figure. She sensed Gabrielle getting in and snuggled up to her side for warmth.

"Oh give me some of your heat," teased the small bard.

"Yes, my princess," joked the young Amazon. She then grunted from a poke she received in her side from Gabrielle. Ephiny then glanced to her right and was thankful for the streams of moonlight coming through the window.

"Are you tired?" whispered the slave.

"Mmmm." Ephiny turned her head back. "Not just yet."

"Neither am I." Gabrielle scooted closer to Ephiny.

"Wait, wait," protested the Amazon. "Scoot back to the middle and I'll come over. I'm not about to get pushed off this bed."

Gabrielle giggled a little but backed up some into the mid but cool part of the bed. "Hurry," she urged between chattering teeth.

Ephiny merely grinned as she scooted over and was instantly wrapped up by an arm and leg. "Better?"

The Amazon Princess nodded and rested her head on Ephiny's shoulder. "You're so much warmer than me."

"Oh yeah, I'm just so hot," joked Ephiny with a roll of her eyes.

Gabrielle chuckled as her eyes slipped shut. "Thank you, Eph."

The Amazon turned her head to the left and rested it against Gabrielle's. "For what?"

"Coming here with me." Gabrielle briefly shivered when a cold chill went down her back. "I really appreciate it."

Ephiny softly smiled and began rubbing Gabrielle's back. "You're welcome."

The small bard stifled the starts of a yawn. "You are going back to the Nation for summer break, right?"

"Oh yes," replied the Amazon. "Have you thought about it?"

Gabrielle let out a small sigh and considered her options. She finally answered the question after about a minute. "I think I might stay in the Nation but I'll have to get Cornelio's permission first."

Ephiny slightly raised an eyebrow at that.

"Not that I truly have to but I know he'd appreciate me seeking his approval before hand."

A faint sigh came from Ephiny. "Yeah, you're right… it's the right thing to do." She was quiet for awhile as she focused on rubbing her friend's back. "Eponin will probably train you to be an Amazon."

"Gods," breathed the bard in awe. "I guess so." A thought occurred to her that made her frown. "I guess I'll have to learn how to fight too."

"Yes," agreed the Amazon. She then furrowed her eyebrows because of Gabrielle's tone. "You don't want to?"

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