XENA - The Story Of Queen Ephiny

[Lady Lee-o]

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Fandom: Xena
Status: WIP
Rating: PG-13+
Warnings: Blood, War, Death
Summary: The life story of Amazon Regent Ephiny of the Telaquire tribe. From childhood up through her death and rebirth.

Part 1-2

PROMISES & FRIENDSHIP

Ephiny grew up under the rule of Queen Lucina and her daughters, Melosa and Terreis. Queen Lucina was a wise queen, strong and the bravest warrior since her grandmother was born. It was an honor to be raised under such a strong and fair Queen. Times were hard and war was around the corner, Lucina prepared her girls for an easy fight. The village of men they used for procreation was unhappy and decided to do something about it. During the season the Amazons would go and use them for breeding purposes, to bring new life into the world. For many years they did not fight back because when beautiful women came to you for sex, you didn't say no. The men lost the battle, "You fought well Phildon, but you have lost and I expect you to obey. Next time I will not be so hospitable," However, men were not the only problem, they also had centaurs.

The men decided they were not going to obey and joined with the centaurs; this would lead to a decade-old battle. It was always about lands and freedom, it wasn't easy for both sides. Many were killed on both sides, among the loss was Queen Lucina. This left her oldest daughter, Melosa, as the new Queen at the age of sixteen. Her sisters, Terreis was only ten.

Melosa had a hard time letting her mother go, they mourning period lasted longer than most. "My queen," Fara, Ephiny's mother walked in and placed a hand on her shoulder. Fara had helped raise both of Lucina's daughters, training them to be great warriors. "It's time, you must let her go. She would not want this for you, the pyre is ready." Fara cupped her face and looked into her eyes, "This is not goodbye," Melosa nodded in agreement.

"We'll see each other again, you're right. Thank you, Fara, I'm sorry for being so weak."

"Emotion is not weakness, so long as you don't let it rule your judgment. You will find a balance, your sisters will help you."

"I have waited well beyond the mourning period, I let it rule me. We will allow her spirit to soar and then we will get our revenge on those responsible." Melosa wanted justice for their mother's death, she wasn't the only one who wanted action.

"War is what killed, mother, why would you want to start another?" Terreis tried to talk her out of it, but she wasn't listening. "Melosa, let the men be. They didn't kill her,"

"They sided with the enemy, they will suffer under my hand."

Ephiny was only eight years old when Queen Lucina died, she saw how everyone mourned. The entire tribe was stricken with grief and anger. The anger behind Melosa's eyes, the sorrow in Terreis'. "Come sit with me," Ephiny held onto her own mother, fear that she would one day be without her. Fara took her place by Melosa and Terreis, Ephiny standing awkwardly at her mother side. She looked out at the dancing amazon's, watching the grieving dance, hypnotized. She rubbed at her eyes, some tears falling down her face, The Queen was gone and her heart was breaking for her friend, Terreis.

"Don't be sad my chariot, Queen Lucina would not want you to be. You will see her again and all our sisters when we pass through the gate of eternity. You are strong and destined for great things." Ephiny would never forget her mother's words.

Ephiny walked over to Terreis first and gave her a huge hug, then she turned to Melosa, bowing on one knee with her hand over her chest. "I will grow to be a great warrior, I will help you defeat our enemy and make them pay for what they have done." She looked up to see a smile on Melosa's face, she stood and Melosa wrapped her arms around her.

"I have my eyes on you, Ephiny. You will be a great warrior because your mother is a great warrior." It was at that moment she would dedicate her life to being the best warrior she could be.

After Queen Lucina's spirit was sent to soar, three days later, Melosa marched her sisters into the men's village. She obliterated them and those who survived escaped to the centaurs. Melosa wanted to follow after them but Fara and several of the other high ranking amazon warriors suggested they wait. Reluctantly she agreed and returned her tribe home.

At this point, Ephiny had started to take her training more serious. Math, Science and history, they weren't her best subjects but she was trying harder these days. The art of war is where she excelled and passed most of her sisters right by.

For two seasons, Ephiny had trained harder than any underage warrior. The patrons were impressed by her ability to learn and told Fara she would make a great leader one day. "Mom, train with me!" Ephiny held a staff in her hand, a look of determination on her face.

"I have to meet with the queen, but we will spar later. Why don't you relax, Chariot? You're going to hurt yourself if you keep moving at such a wild pace."

When Ephiny was thirteen seasons, a war was close to the amazon nation. Tyldus and Melosa could not agree on much of anything. According to Melosa, Tyldus was starting to encroach on amazon lands; which was a part of the treaty they set up a year ago. The centaurs had an advantage over the amazons, an older leader with more experience. Tyldus had been in many wars, Melosa hadn't seen many battles at this point.

"Ephiny, go with the other children."

"I can fight them, just give me a chance!"

"No, I must protect Melosa and Terreis. I can not do that if I'm worried about you. You are not old enough to fight, now do as I say."

"But mom-"

"You will have many more times to be brave, today is not one of them. Go with the children and protect them, they need you there. Melosa has already sent Velasca," Velasca and Ephiny were the same age, they grew up together and both were strong warriors in training. When Velasca's mother was killed, Melosa took her in as a sister and daughter. They were only eight years apart but Melosa saw something in Velasca.

"Only cowards run and hide, amazon's don't hide."

"Chariot," Ephiny's fists clenched, she didn't like it when her mother used that name. "You will have many opportunities to fight our enemies, but you are not ready to face a Centaur." She leaned in and kissed the top of her daughter's head. "I will return to you, take my staff and hold onto it for me." Ephiny pulled away, leaving the staff behind. "Ephiny, you will go to the cave and stay there. If I catch you on the battlefield, you will never see another war until I soar." Ephiny screamed out in frustration and headed to the door. "Where are you going."

"To the stupid cave's!" She headed outside and helped round up the amazon children, "let's go, stay close." She herded them along and sighed when they finally got to safety, Velasca was already there, twirling her dagger between her fingers.

"This is stupid, we should be out there," Velasca growled.

"Queen Melosa wouldn't let you fight either?" Velasca shook her head.

"We are just as good as any of those warriors, it's not fair we have to be stuck here. I want them dead, I want to avenge my mother."

"And we will, I promise, we'll make them all pay," They made a few trips, getting everyone to safety. They sat down close, leaning against each other for silent comfort.

The battle lasted a week before both sides pulled back. Many lives were lost and Melosa finally saw what she was warned about, how war should always be a last resort. Melosa wouldn't have anymore bloodshed. Peace talks began and within another week the children were brought back to the village. The younger children were taken around and brought to the schoolhouse. They were being sheltered from the dozens of warriors bodies laid out for burning. They would be getting a funeral pyre within a day, once they were prepared.

Ephiny looked around for her mother but couldn't find her. "Solari, have you seen my mother?" Solari was a couple years older, a great sparring partner, and very pretty.

"I'm sorry, Eph, I don't know where she is." She clasped hand with Ephiny and smiled, "I'm sure she is fine, hey, a bunch of us are meeting for food soon. Come by the tent and we'll fill you in on everything, it was a hell of a fight." Ephiny agreed to meet up later and headed off to find her mother. More warriors were brought in but none were her mother, she was starting to get concerned.

"Ephiny," She turned to see Terreis coming towards her, a somber look on her face. "Come with me," She was about to object but she followed after Terreis, they were heading towards the burial tent.

"I should go find my mom," She felt the lump in her throat, her stomach hurt and the looks on the high guard told her everything. She made her way inside and spotted her mother on the ceremonial altar. She was dressed for the fires.

"She is not long for this world, I'm sorry, Ephiny-" Terreis was about to place a hand on her shoulder, but Ephiny walked over to take her mother's hand.

"Mama," She gave her hand a squeeze, letting her mother know she was there. "You can't leave me, I'm not strong enough yet, remember? You have to teach me, you have to see me become a warrior." Tears rolled down her face as she spoke, Fara allowed a smile on her face, giving Ephiny's hand a squeeze back. "mama?"

"Chariot," She breathed out, "don't lose your fire or love, you were born for great things." Her words were barely above a whisper, breathing shallow. "You are a warrior." She watched her mother smile, "my girls," She smiled as Melosa and Terreis came close, "be strong." Fara took her last breath, clutched onto her daughter's hand. The healer checked her over and officially called her death.

"I always considered your mother my own, she took care of Terreis and me. She will be given a royal funeral, in honor of her service to Queen Lucina and Myself." Ephiny felt proud that her mother would be given such an honor, she accepted the comfort of both sisters. "Stand with us, as you once did when our mother passed. The nation mourns the loss of our sister, Fara." Ephiny spent three days mourning her mother's loss, she refused to see anyone but Melosa and Terreis. At the end of those three days, she forced herself to allow the ceremony. She could not be weak, she could not be selfish and hold her mother here.

The sounds of the drum beats broke her out of her trace. That is what it felt like, it felt like a really bad nightmare. She joined Melosa and Terreis on the dais, staring at her mother's pyre. She tapped the archer on the shoulder, "May I?" She wanted to be the one to send her off, the warrior looked to Melosa and the Queen nodded. Ephiny waited for the signal and turned, shooting the bolt of fire into the wood. Ephiny just stood there now, dead eyes and watched the amazon's dance around the fires. Her mother was gone...

Ephiny had done her best to keep love in her heart, but she was angry. She spiraled downward quickly, her mother's death was too much for her. Each amazon that died after, it only fueled the hatred she had for Centaurs. She finally understood the anger inside of Velasca, she became just as angry and bitter as her friend. She wanted justice for her mother's death, she wanted every centaur to pay with blood, but war never came. A treaty was signed and the war was over within a month, all hope of revenge, shattered.


BECOMING A WARRIOR & LOSING A FRIEND

The day of her fifteenth birthday, she joined the ranks of the amazon warrior. Velasca was a couple weeks older but Ephiny convinced her to wait, so they could join at the same time. She had been waiting for this day for so long, but Velasca reluctantly agreed. They had joined the younger group of amazon warriors, which was run by an older amazon, her name was Jessah. Each younger group was run by an older warrior, who would help prepare them for battle.

"New girls, to the left and the others to the right. Today we start drills and figure out where you stand among your sisters."

Melosa had stopped by in the middle of the day, "How are they doing, Jessah?"

"They are remarkable, Fara trained them well. She is smiling on them this day, Queen Melosa."

"Keep me up to date, I want progress reports on these two."

"You got it," Jessah called out and the sparring stopped, "Time for drills ladies, Solari," She tossed the rope to her. "Show the girls how we scale trees properly in war."

Ephiny continued to stay focused during all her warrior training, she wanted to master everything she could. As a young amazon, you learned the basics but until you were a warrior- so much was kept from you. She came to the realization that her mother was right, she wouldn't have been ready to take on the centaurs.

At the end of the day, Ephiny and Velasca were laying back near the river. Both sore from head to toe, "It gets easier, I could barely move my first day." They looked up to see, Solari, she was smiling down at both of them. "You two were great out there, great warriors."

"Thanks, we've been waiting for this day." Velasca slowly sat up and watched as the group gathered around, sitting down to chat and congratulate.

"You two have a lot of anger inside, those Sparring dummies didn't deserve to be decapitated," Solari smirked and placed a hand on Velasca's arm, she pulled away from the touch. "Sorry."

"My anger is my own, It keeps me focused and alive." She stood up and looked down at Ephiny, "You coming?"

"I'm just going to sit here for a bit, still hurt to move." Velasca left and Solari sighed, "She has a right to be angry."

"We all have a right to be angry, Ephiny, but it is not healthy. I lost my entire family to war, sister, my aunt, my mother and many amazons I called friends. I was angry but anger clouds judgment in a battle. One day that anger will get Velasca killed, maybe even you. Your mom was a great warrior and a good teacher, she taught us that anger consumes your soul. To hold it inside, it will damn you to the land of the dead." She remembered her mother's teachings, but it was hard to ignore all the hurt.

"Hey, Eph!" Eponin came charging over and plopping down next to her, "we haven't seen you in a while, you have been neglecting us." Ephiny mostly stayed with Velasca these days but she did have other friends. When her mom died, she shut herself off and ignored most people.

"Haven't been feeling social, kind of keep to myself and Velasca."

"Listen, Eph, I know she's your best friend but she's pulling you down a really bad path. You don't have to follow her down it, you can break free from that anger." Solari was trying too hard to make her see but Ephiny wasn't ready to listen. "We can help you find peace when you are ready." It took some time but eventually, they started to get her back on the right path. Her light was still extinguished but she was making better choices, whole days would go by without her losing her temper.

Over the next years, Solari and Ephiny had become closer. Things were starting to get serious and she was starting to feel happy again, genuinely happy. She wanted to share her happiness with Velasca, she had been a bit distant. "Hey," her friend had found a new group of amazon friends, young amazons who shared her views. She took her friend into a hug, "Came to check on you."

"You have nothing to worry about, I haven't changed but you have." Velasca smirked, "I see you and Solari have become closer?" Ephiny blushed, "I'm happy for you, so happy that I'm going to give you what you want... revenge." Ephiny was confused but Velasca told her it would all be clear in time. It didn't take long before she found out, a few days later, a fight had broken out in the center of town. Velasca held chobos in her hands and smiled at Queen Melosa, who was now nursing a busted lip. "I demand the challenge," Ephiny rushed forward and pushed her back.

"What are you doing, you can't just demand something like that, she's could kill you." The look on Melosa's face was hurt, but she stood and prepared herself for the fight. "This is madness, she took you in, she cared for you-"

"She keeps peace with murderers, beasts that hide behind a scroll. Will a scroll stop them from hunting on our lands, no!" She yelled out so everyone could hear, quieting down during her last part. Taking Ephiny's shoulders in her hands, "We have been waiting for this since our mothers' were taken from us. Think of the peace we will feel, once these beasts are gone!" Velasca smiled, "Once I win, we will discuss our future." Velasca stood in the center of the circle, anger on her face. "You let our enemy live, you wish to keep the peace, we should rid the land of them. The mask will be mine when I win, I will go after her next-" She pointed to Terreis, "no one will stand in my way."

"I keep us alive, we have no reason to fight with them now. I hate them just as much as you do, disgusting creatures but we are not ready."

"You're not ready but I am." Velasca got into position.

"If you lose, you will be banished from this tribe. Your title as my daughter, as my sister- gone." She looked around at the sisters, "Anyone who sides with her, you will join her in exile. Pick your side, sisters and choose your fate." Ephiny felt sick to her stomach, she didn't want this but she had to pick a side.

"Ephiny?" Velasca watched as Ephiny walked over to Melosa, "Betrayer!"

"I'm sorry but you are wrong, war will come but not before a just cause." Ephiny didn't want this to happen, she was angry she was about to lose her friend.

Melosa had Velasca pinned to the ground, Chobos pressed into her neck. "You were a daughter to me, I took you in, loved you, even with all your anger. You and your new tribe will leave here and not return. Get your things and get out before I doom you to the land of the dead."

"You should have killed me," Velasca simply stood and went to pack her things, she mounted a horse and looked over her shoulder and promised that she would come back to take what she deserved. Ephiny hoped that day would never come because she was sure next time Melosa wouldn't hesitate to kill her.

[Lady Lee-o]

(Part 3-4)

FRIENDSHIP IS NEVER EASY... OR LOVE


Ephiny's anger had returned full force when Velasca was banished she had lost her best friend. It caused a rift between Ephiny and Solari's relationship, they were off and on again. They still remained close but Solari was unable to help Ephiny. Her happiness was depleted and no one could help her get over it, but it didn't stop Terreis from trying. "Ephiny, let's take a walk." They walked side by side along the forest, Terreis smiling all the while. "Things seemed simpler when we were children, all of us were such good friends. I know it's been hard for you, losing your mother, losing Velasca, everyone is worried about you and your path."

"I lost my best friend, Velasca and I were born in the same season. Our mothers would lay us next to each other, we had our first everything's together. I'm mad because she went against our queen, she got herself banished and I can never see her again. I might not have agreed with what she did but I share in her beliefs. The Centaurs deserve to die and when war happens, this time I will be at the front of the line."

"Your anger is noted, but remember it was war and feuding that killed out mothers. The battling had to stop and my sister put her anger aside. Melosa, she saw what it was doing to this nation. I hope you will continue to respect her for her decisions, as you promised your queen years ago."

"I swore my life to her, I will always respect my queen's decisions. Melosa, she is a great queen, my sword is her sword. I will follow her commands, just as my mother did." Ephiny placed her hand on Terreis shoulder, "My sword is yours too, my friend."

Within five years, Ephiny had moved her way up the rank of warrior. She had quickly become Melosa's top warrior, along with Solari, Chilapa, and Eponin. Terreis led them and when she wasn't on watch, Ephiny or Solari was in charge. Ephiny still had a hard time letting people in, she and Solari had drifted apart romantically, but they were still friends. They would talk strategy and techniques and anything unrelated to each other. If Solari dares bring up their past, Ephiny would change the subject. "Will you ever settle on one amazon?" Ephiny came to know many of her sisters, not caring if it hurt the people around her. "Or will you continue to sleep with every warrior of age?"

"Someone has to teach them the ways of lust," She continued to eat her meal, not bother to look up. "Plus, they don't bother me while I'm eating or nag me about love. And when we are done, they go home." Anger got the better of Solari, she knocked Ephiny's bowl off the table.

"You have forgotten everything your mother taught you. This is not the path she laid out for you, you shame her!" Ephiny stood up, jumping onto the table and stepped down onto the bench, squaring off with Solari.

"My path is my own, leave my mother out of it. You are angry, I get that. We are not together anymore, Solari, so back off. I can do what I want with my body and still get into eternity." She stepped past her and stormed off, "Get over it, I'm not yours anymore."

Solari was about to go after her but Eponin stopped her, "let her go, she is not your problem anymore."

"She is our friend, Nin, we do not give up on friends." Chilapa sighed and placed a hand on Solari, "I will go talk with her, you cool down."

"Don't bother, just leave it." Solari sighed, hurt that she meant so little to Ephiny.

Ephiny and Solari eventually made up, staying friends. Solari never mentioned their past again, she kept her distance. Ephiny continued down the path of partying, sex and hard of head- until her mid-twenties. That is when a warrior and bard came into her life.


HOOVES & HARLOTS

They had been following two women since they entered amazon land. They were taking their time, walking normally, the tall one knew they were being followed. The short, bubbly, chipper blonde had no clue. Ephiny didn't like strangers, she didn't like anyone really- not these days. If she had a choice, she'd send them back but Terreis was leading patrol today. "What was that thing hanging back there from the tree?"

"No trespassing sign. This is Amazon country."

"Amazon? Do you think we'll see any?"

"Almost certainly..." They sent the wave of arrows to stop them, before scaling down the trees. They gave the symbol of peace, Terreis was the first to speak.

"You know the amazon symbol of peace."

"We'd like safe passage through your hunting grounds."

"My name is Terreis. You know the Amazon ways, and yet, you're not one of us. And you're really not one of us." That was for sure, what was a warrior doing with a girl like this?

"Hey, don't judge a scroll by its paper." Ephiny stepped up and spoke clearly, making sure everyone heard her.

"They invade our territory. We should take them to see Queen Melosa."

"Ephiny is right; we have to let Melosa decide. Don't worry, she's fair."

"Going to see the Amazon Queen! This is fantastic. I'm so excited. I wonder what she's like?" Ephiny hoped this girl wouldn't talk the entire way back to camp. She might just stab herself in the head, so much talking and Terreis wasn't helping. "I want to read philosophy and learn about history and science. But they didn't consider me a normal girl."

"Philosophy and history are among the first things taught to Amazon children."

"Really?"

"It is a man's world, Gabrielle, Not because it should be, but, because we let them have it. It's based on a woman's weakness."

"Yeah?"

"The Amazon world is based on truth and a woman's individual strength."

"Well, I'm all for that. I've always considered myself a single-minded person. Of course, if I got married I'd have to ask my husband if that was OK-- That was a joke." oh great, she had jokes. Ephiny needed to get some distance and decided to keep an eye on Xena. The warrior didn't like it all that much, she got a bit testy.

"Something about me you find interesting?" Xena asked.

"Yes."

"Wanna tell me?"

"No."

"Then stop staring at me, before I take your eyes out." Ephiny never got to say a retort before arrows started to rain down from the sky. Quickly, the amazons escaped into the trees but Terreis was hit with an arrow and fell to the ground. "Terreis!" Ephiny was pinned down for just a moment, unable to get down without getting an injury. She watched as Gabrielle ran over to cover her fallen sister, she quickly scaled down and made her way over.

"What you did, only an Amazon would do for another Amazon. I want you to take my right of caste."

"Terreis," Ephiny was in shock, how could she just give her something like that? This girl wasn't a warrior, she wasn't prepared.

"Please!" Terreis winced.

"OK, I'll take it. Just, don't, don't--" Ephiny didn't know why this girl would risk her life for a stranger? She didn't have time to think about it, she sent them back to the village with some of the others and went hunting for the person responsible. She couldn't think about Terreis right now, she needed to focus on searching the area. She saw the centaur cutting across the river, she needed to grab him before he reached the open field. Melosa would want him alive, even if she wanted him dead.

"Animal!" She got him and it was a nice catch too, she jumped on his back and held the sword to his neck. Making him stop with a threat of slicing his neck wide open. She pulled him through the angry crowd and brought him close to Melosa.

"Hands off, witch!" Ephiny gave a bow to Melosa, making sure to hold tight to the rope that held the Centaur.

"These were his. I brought him down as he was escaping across the river." She handed Melosa the arrow, a match to the one that ended Terreis' life.

"You would never have caught me in the open field." She yanked on his rope, glaring right into his face.

"I did catch you, on our land," Melosa demanded he be taken away and she pulled him along. She made sure he was secure before leaving him in the hands of her sisters.

Ephiny needed to talk with Melosa but she was about to meet with Krycus, the stinking warlord. He just sat out there beyond both Amazon and Centaur borders. While she waited, she went to get some food. Her friends tried to talk with her but she needed to be alone, "I don't want to talk about it right now, just let me be!" She stormed off, heading towards the queen's tent. She knew Melosa would be grieving but she needed to talk to her. "I'm sorry to bother you," She walked in to see Melosa staring into the flame, watching the sword burn.

"It's okay, come in," She took Ephiny into a hug and for a moment they stayed silent. "What is it?"

"It's about Terreis and that blonde girl," She took a breath to steady herself, "She gave her the right of caste." Melosa looked shocked, about to argue the point. "I know, trust me I know. I don't know what she was thinking, but it happened."

"What happened between the two of them?"

"Naive young girl, taking an interest in our ways. Talking about how she was always the odd girl and wanting to learn things she wasn't allowed. When the attack happened, she tried to save Terreis' life. She covered her with her own body, trying to keep any more arrows from hitting her."

"This young girl threw herself into harm's way, trying to save my sister. I think the caste is valid, let's talk with her." They headed out of the tent and towards the two strangers, Xena left but Gabrielle stayed behind.

"Gabrielle."

"So are we going to talk about this right of caste thing?"

"With her dying wish, Terreis bestowed all her rights and possessions to you and her position."

"Wait. You mean, I'm an Amazon?"

"Terreis was my true sister, the next in the royal line. You're an Amazon Princess," Melosa looked at Ephiny, "Make sure she's taught." Melosa had to be joking? No way would this girl ever be an amazon, she didn't have what it took.

"Take the princess and get her dressed, I'll catch up." Eponin nodded and led her away. When she met up with them at Terreis' home, she felt the anger bubbling up inside of her again. Seeing her wearing Terreis' things, it rubbed her the wrong way. "Come, now."

"I'm sorry, you must have me mistaken for a pet." Ephiny rolled her eyes and took a calming breath.

"Would you come with me?"

"That's better."

"From birth, every Amazon is taught to use weapons. Pick your first weapon," She watched as Gabrielle went down the line, deciding on what weapon she wanted. She landed on the fighting staff and asked what it was. "That is a fighting staff. Eponin." She tossed the staff to her friend and the warrior started to twirl it around with ease. Eponin was a weapon's master, she knew how to use all types. "Train her, I have something I need to do." Ephiny left her alone with Eponin for a while, before returning some time later. "Report,"

"She's not bad, a little rough."

"I'm getting the idea, though. You know, it's pretty fun when it's working."

"Fun?" Ephiny would have to set her straight because this was not fun. This was life, this was a heritage but that speech would come later. She took hold of her mother's fighting staff and stared right at Gabrielle. "This fighting staff was my first weapon. My mother passed it on to me. It saved my life more than once. Centaurs have certain strengths and weaknesses. They're fast and agile. We use that to our advantage. As a centaur passes at full gallop, the staff goes here, to crack the knee at the joint. This splits the leg forward and drops him to the ground. As the centaur falls, a strike to the lower shoulder dislocates the two front legs. Once the centaur is on the ground, an overhead strike breaks the neck." The melon smashed and she knew she got her point across, "death is immediate if they're lucky. Still fun?"

Ephiny wanted to see the beast, the man who killed her friend in cold blood. Her hate for the centaurs was multiplied at the sight of him, he was breaking free from his ropes. "Planning to take a little trip? Her sword went to his throat and he stopped.

"How did you get in here without me hearing you? I wouldn't have left, you know? Not until I'd killed everyone in this village." Ephiny was a bit amused by this.

"You talk big, even for a Centaur."

"What would you know about Centaurs? You despise us, You spit on us." Her grip tightened on her sword.

"I had a friend who admired the Centaurs. She didn't see you for the beasts you really are. She felt that one day, we would work together. She thought you were brave and noble people." It was true, Terreis had changed her tune and come to realize, war is war. Everyone fights, people die, and it didn't make the other side any less wrong or right.

"Well, if your friend likes Centaurs so much, where is she now?"

"You killed her." She wouldn't cry in front of him, she wanted to scream but she held it in.

"I didn't." She paused and turned back to face him, he didn't turn around. She wondered if he was telling her the truth if only she could see his face.

"She also told me that Centaurs have a high sense of honor. Is that true? Could you swear on your father's name?"

"I swear on the name of Tyldus the Great, I didn't kill your friend. Not that the oath of a Centaur means anything."

"Not to many." Ephiny left him, knowing even if he escaped her sisters would stop him. She headed back to the scene, imagining the scene over and over again. Xena was out here too, she had watched her slip away and wanted to know what she was up too. She wanted to see what this warrior princess was all about, deciding a little hand to hand wouldn't hurt. After a little fight; which she lost, Xena saves her life from a Centaur. She told Ephiny that the killer was Krycus and she had proof. The hay sprouts proved that Phantes didn't kill anyone, and of course the fact that the front hooves were made from a normal horse. Next, they went to Krycus camp and she snuck into the weapons tent and found centaur arrows. Ephiny told Xena what she found and they headed back for amazon territory. They made it just in time to stop the execution but all things come with a price and Ephiny was about to pay hers. "You made the challenge, Gabrielle. You have to follow through. Choose your weapon, or, choose your champion." She saw the look of disappointment in Melosa's eyes, but Ephiny had to do what was right. Gods she hoped Xena won, she did not want to die...

"There will be no execution, by order of our new Queen." Ephiny was finally able to breathe and she hoped that Melosa would have Mercy for not picking her side. With the help of Xena, they defeated Krycus and made peace with the centaurs, it wouldn't be easy but Ephiny knew it was the right thing to do. She had to admit, Gabrielle had grown on her and maybe it had something to do with Terreis? She would honor her friend's decision, but it didn't mean she couldn't be annoyed with her. She talked way too much...

"Now, I see why you ride the horse."

"Now, what's that supposed to mean?"

"Eponin?" Gabrielle had saved her life, something only a true amazon would do for another. She would try and accept her sister's death by welcoming a new one. She caught her mother's staff and held it out for Gabrielle, "This is yours." she owed her a gift and what better gift for an amazon coming of age?

"I can't take this. Your mother gave it to you,"

"An Amazon Princess doesn't refuse a gift from another Amazon. Please, I want you to carry it."

"If you're sure, I will gladly carry it."


Xena and Gabrielle stayed for just a bit longer and before they left, she took Gabrielle aside. "You were not born an amazon, you will not know all our ways. I just need you to understand something, I need to make sure you know what it means to be an Amazon." Ephiny sucked in her lip, exhaling a breath. "I don't know how qualified I am to give you this speech, but here it goes. She gave you the right of caste because you are pure of heart. You did what any amazon would do for another, you risk your life for hers, no hesitation. You showed courage, strength, and love for a stranger. My mother had a saying, one she quoted from time to time. You can have all the strength, courage, and power in the world but you are not a true amazon without love in your heart. I lost my way for a long time, my friends tried to bring me back but none of them could do it- until you. She gave you the right of caste because you deserve it, she saw something in you and so do I. So, Princess, keep training and maybe one day you'll be able to take me on." Ephiny was a work in progress, but she was going to try something new; forgiveness and possibly friendship.

[Lady Lee-o]

(Part 5-6)

THE WARRIOR & PRINCE

Peace was never easy if it was everyone would do it. Relations were better now that Tyldus and Melosa worked as a team. They stayed in contact and worked on issues, making the area safe by keeping warlords away from their bordering lands. They decided to share the hunting grounds, within reason and as long as neither side caused trouble, they could pass over the border without conflict. It was a change and some Amazons and Centaurs didn't like it, but they didn't have too. Tyldus and Melosa were in charge and they would follow their orders.


Ephiny, Solari, Eponin, and Chilapa sat by the river, with a few other sisters as well. This was the first time they could just relax and not worry about constant patrolling and fear of an attack. It was early evening and they were enjoying the water, their clothes discarded on the river bank. They washed the warrior sweat away from a hard day's training, "I don't know why we have to train so hard, we're at peace now." Traya, she was one of the new warriors come of age. Now that the peace was set, she didn't see the point of training every day.

"We must always be ready for an attack, especially you young warriors. We might be at peace with the Centaurs, but that doesn't mean the rest of the world is. We have a new alliance with them and we need to be ready." Ephiny scooted into the water, enjoying the feel of the cool water and warm sun on her skin.

"Ready for what? Traya is right, we are finally at peace." Eponin yawned and collapsed back in the grass. "It feels nice not to spend my days in the trees, I can relax back on the grass and enjoy the summer sun. Remember when we were kids and this was all we did? What is wrong with wanting that?"

"Nothing but Ephiny is right, we have a responsibility to the young ones. We have to be an example and show them what is it to be an amazon like Fara taught us to be." Eponin swallowed hard and placed her hand on her chest in respect for their fallen teacher. "We can not become complacent, the world won't be and neither can we."


"Is this what you Amazons do all day?" They heard a voice call over from the opposite side of the river, they were quick to reach for a weapon before their discarded clothes. They relaxed a bit when they saw it was Phantes, "Gossip about war and swim naked for the known world to see?"

"It's one of our favorite pastimes, Prince, now avert your eyes so we may dress." When he turned his back, they slipped on their clothes properly and put away their weapons.

"Always like a woman to leave herself vulnerable and open once the danger has subsided." He spoke clear as day, Ephiny's eyes narrowed at his words.

"And what do you know of Women?" Ephiny wasn't going to like his answer, she could already tell by his smug royal face.

"I know much about women, Amazon. Warrior or not you all think with your hearts, letting emotions get the better of you." Many of the younger girls got up and left, worried they might say something to offend the prince and start a war. "You see, I speak truths and they storm off."

"Your words offended them, they are young and irrational," Solari spoke calmly, standing in front of Eponin to keep her at bay. "They prefer to leave than fight and that shows restraint." She said, giving Eponin a kick with her foot.

"I never said using your heart was a bad thing, allowing your emotions to reign over your sensibility. It can cause conflict in battle, get people killed."


Ephiny was doing all she could to hold onto her own temper. Something about this Centaur grated on her last nerve, "and you think this is just a woman's quality?" She wasn't going to sit back and let him continue, she was going to enjoy countering his stance. "I've seen many men do stupid things for a woman's affection. Men are just as careless with their heart and appendages, they rule over nations because they were born men. In our society, we're born as women and we rule as women." She watched Phantes smile only grow, he crossed the river bringing himself closer to her. "All the great wars were started by men, men, and their ego." He was close to her now, so very close and she didn't like it.

"A few of those were because of a beautiful woman." He smiled, reaching out to tuck a curl behind her ear. "A beautiful woman can bring a man to his knees if she offers all the right things." Ephiny looked over her shoulder and saw her friend stare, they had straight faces but body language spoke volumes. Her sisters were prepared to remove a hand if they had too.

"So, Prince Phantes, any reason you grace us with your presence?" Solari moved forward and pulled Ephiny away from him, waiting for him to make his next move.

"Fishing, I didn't expect to find half-naked Amazons. Now that we have an alliance, this river belongs to both villages." Phantes smiled, "Ladies, I hope you have a pleasant evening." He bowed a bit before heading back over the river and finding a perfect fishing spot.


For the rest of summer, every time Ephiny went for a swim, Phantes was there fishing. It was like he knew when she would be there. He would just smile at her and go about his business. The days started off with just a hello then, they started having conversations. She was starting to enjoy his company, they argued a lot but not in the way you would think. It was a battle of minds, of intellect and they shared victories. He would look at her with such passion, it caught her off guard and it wasn't like anything she felt before. They had shared a kiss one night, drunk off wine and enjoying the glow of the moonlight. Ephiny freaked out a little and left, her sisters were starting to talk but she ignored them.

Days passed and finally, she made her way back down the river, to relax and possibly run into Phantes? She sat sharpening her sword, smirking when she heard a branch snap behind her. "Phantes, why are you sneak-" but it wasn't him, the butt of the sword hit her temple hard and she fell. She was quick to her feet, grabbing her weapon and squaring off with him. He looked like he belonged to Krykus army, she was going to enjoy killing him. Mid Swing, she became dizzy and he got a lucky hit in, the sword went clean through but luckily hit nothing major. She was able to retaliate and kill him but the damage was done. She stumbled back through the woods and towards the Amazon village, she could see it but her legs gave out and she collapsed.

When she woke up she found herself in the healer's hut. She wasn't sure how she got there but the first person she saw was Phantes. "You'll be okay, Amazon."

"I have a feeling that is because of you?" He nodded, "Thank you, I owe you my life."

"I know," Every day he would come to see her when she woke he was there and the last day he had brought her flowers. "Last pick before the snow comes."

"My sisters are starting to talk, what do you want from me?"

"I-" for the first time since the truce, Phantes was speechless and Ephiny found this very amusing. "Do not laugh at me."

"I can not help it, you are finally speechless, the gods have answered my prayers." She teased but she saw that he wasn't joking, so she got serious. "Phantes, what is it?" She could see how anxious he was becoming, it was starting to worry her. She couldn't understand what had him so worked up. Nothing had seemed to shake the Centaur prince before, until now.

"I have something I need to say, so please let me say it before you throw me out." Ephiny sat up and started to get on her boots, she had been given permission to head back to her own home. "Are you up for a walk?"

"A slow pace but yes we can walk." She finished getting dressed before joining him on a stroll. "Now tell me what is troubling you, Prince."

"When I found you, I thought I was too late. You barely drew breath and I felt-" He stopped to look at her, "-scared." She said nothing because he asked her not to but she did reach for his hand. "I have never felt this way about anyone before. You have taken my heart Amazon, from the moment you held me at knifepoint." She smirked, shaking her head at him but she didn't laugh. "Go on a date with me?"

"Phantes," She took both his hand in hers and smiled. "This can not work, I'm an Amazon warrior and you a Centaur prince. I like what we have now, I do not want to ruin that." Ephiny could see the hurt in his eyes but he smiled and nodded his head.

"We should get you home." he looked defeated and Ephiny felt horrible.


Solari came to check on Ephiny later that night, to help change the bandages off her wound. "I saw the prince, he looked like he'd been kicked in the face. Figuratively, what happened?"

"He asked me on a date and I said no."

"You told him no?" Solari didn't expect that, not after how close they had become. A part of her was happy but she couldn't let Ephiny throw this away. "What are you stupid?"

"I'm realistic."

"He was by your side for three weeks, he never left the village." She could see the surprise on Ephiny's face, "Did he not tell you that part?"

"No."

"I know you better than I know myself, I can see how much you love him. We have not been together for several years, I want you to be happy. I know you don't need it but I give you my blessing. If he makes you happy, your friends will support that."

"I do care for you, Solari, you have to know that." She placed her hand on Solari's and squeezed, "You are my dearest friend."

"And you are mine, now think about what I said." It took her another week to think It over but eventually, she decided to take the leap. She left by horse and headed for the Centaur camp, some greeted her but most ignored her.

Phantes was a bit surprised to see her but he greeted her with a smile. "You came?" He kissed her hand and she rolled her eyes.

"I had some time to think," She swallowed hard and glanced around, she didn't want to do this here. "Can we take a ride?" He grinned and moved alongside Ephiny and her horse. They traveled down the river and met at the spot they frequented. "I need you to know why I said no in the first place." She dismounted and sat on a boulder, it was the perfect height for Phantes to gaze into her eyes. "It's true that I don't want to ruin what we have but it's more than that. All my life I hated your people, my whole world was trying to get revenge. Because of Xena and Gabrielle, I finally put my hate aside, war isn't the answer and I know that now. Both sides have done a lot of killing, I want that to stop." He reached out and tucked a curl behind her ear and smiled. "I- I don't know how to do this. I'm not good at dating, I don't date, I do-"

"Me too." Phantes held her hand, "We have to start somewhere, right? So, how about we start with trust?"

"Good place to start." Ephiny agreed and leaned in to share a kiss.


THE CENTAUR PRINCE


By the next spring they were married, a baby on the way and they still couldn't decide where to live. Phantes kept insisting that they stay with the Centaurs, Ephiny said she wouldn't leave her sisters. Tyldus and Melosa decided to intervene and help them fix the problem. "Why don't you two meet in the middle, if you catch my drift?" Melosa waited for them to understand, it took a minute but they both smiled and nodded her head. "That way you two will stop fighting and not drive the rest of us insane."

"Amen!" Ephiny heard the disembodied voice of Eponin from outside the tent flap.


They decided to build a small home by the river, where they first agreed to be together. The Amazons were happy to help and within a week the work was done. They moved in and just enjoyed being together, but the closer Ephiny got to giving birth, the closer she started to feel uneasy. "We should go to Athens for the birth, it will be easier for you." Phantes held onto Ephiny, rubbing her stomach. "The babies are a lot more tolerant."

"Okay, we should probably plan ahead. Who knows when this little one will come," she craned her neck up to kiss his lips.

"We'll leave in a week," Ephiny could feel the baby moving a lot, she hoped he'd wait a week. They ended up leaving for Athens a few days early, Ephiny felt a few contractions. She said they could be a false alarm but Phantes didn't want to chance it.


The road to Athens was a dangerous place and Ephiny didn't like it. She wouldn't be much help if something were to happen and now they stumbled upon a battleground. A war between the Thessalians and Mitoans had broken out and the carnage alone was enough to churn her stomach. She had spotted a village, nothing was left alive, nothing. "And they call out people barbarians." She spotted a mother holding her child, she couldn't have been more than four. She was wrapped around her, trying so desperately to protect her. "Phantes," He took her in his arms and held on, her hormones had made her a wreck and this was not helping. "We shouldn't be here, we need to go back. I can't help protect us, what if they are still here?"

"We can't go back, you won't make it to Athens if we do. I'm going to find us a way out of here, It will be okay." He kissed her lips, "I'll protect you."

"Big strong Centaur," She rolled her eyes and started to walk on.

"Where are you going?"

"I'm not staying here with the dead and you are not going in there alone. I'm coming with you, now let's go and don't argue with me."


They avoided most of the Mitoan raiding parties, they seemed to be the bigger aggressor when it came to strangers. They only had to talk directly with the Thessalians to be given a pass, but it wasn't easy to get them to listen.

They got deeper into Mitoan territory and Phantes knew this would be the most dangerous length of their journey. Ephiny needed to rest but they wouldn't be able to stay in one spot for too long. The sounds of war were getting closer and they needed to go. Phantes could hear the sounds of dogs barking, hoofbeats that weren't his own. "We need to move," He helped Ephiny up onto his back, she knew it was serious because he never let anyone ride him.

"How many?"

"Five horses, maybe six and a pack of hunting dogs. I won't be able to take them on alone, not if I'm worried about you." He placed a kiss on her lips and helped her down, giving her some food and water in a pack. "Hide under here and don't make a sound, I will come back when I throw them off our trail."

"Phantes."

"For once do not argue with me, I won't let anything happen to you or our son."

"You don't know if it's a boy," She groaned, he was adamant it was and he was probably right. Centaur boys were a lot more common.

"You want to have this conversation now?" he looked over his shoulder, the war party was close and he needed to lead them away. "I can't outrun them unless I go now. Stay hidden and-" The dog was on him in a second, he barely had time to react. One dog had him by the throat, a second came in and attacked at his side and a third joined the first.


The hunting party found her easily, a fourth dog sniffing her out. She used the branch to fend it off but the men took hold of her."

"Phantes!" She struggled to get to him but the men held her in place, laughing as they watched their dogs rip him apart. "You monsters!" She grabbed a sword from one of them and wasted no time in using it. She wasn't helpless and she wasn't just going to give up, she needed to help him. She wounded one of them, "we are just traveling through, we're going to Athens!" A dog snuck up behind her and took her down by the leg, she fell hard and hit her head on a rock; cracking it wide open. She groaned and reached for the sword, but it was kicked away from her.

"Don't think so, girly." A hard kick to her hand, she pulled it away from the sword. She watched as Phantes broke free from the dogs, fighting them off. She could see he wasn't stable, the loss of blood made him weak in the legs.

"Phan-"

"G-g-go!" He wasn't going to make it, he knew that and so did she. She stayed for a just second more before grabbing hold of her saddlebag and running. Her head hurt, it was hard to keep balance but she found a place to hide; the sap from the branches would help hide her scent. The dogs had pinned him again and this time, Phantes didn't escape. He could hear his screams, his final scream was her name and then nothing. She heard the men laugh, the dogs were praised for a good hunt and allowed to chew on his remains. They searched for her but they failed, she was far enough off the path, her scent masked by the sap and leaves she had covered herself in.


The men had dragged him around for a bit, trying to coax her out of hiding. The dogs told to attack him, to rip him, he wasn't breathing- she had to remind herself he was gone. They had gotten close, close enough that she could stare into those eyes, the eyes she gazed into many times. They were open, no light behind them and his face twisted in pain but she couldn't look away. She wanted to reach out and close his eyes, to touch his face one more time but she couldn't move. She fought back the sobs that threatened to escape her, she had to be quiet, they were still close by. They started to drag his body away, she stayed quiet for a while longer before she allowed the first sob escape her lips. She mourned him, the sounds of his screams played back in her ears and she couldn't shake the sick feeling in her stomach.


Ephiny needed to move but she knew she wouldn't make it far. The contractions had started and she was going to give birth, she wasn't even sure if she'd be able to do it on her own. The sounds of footsteps had her reaching for her crossbow, she hadn't protected Phantes but she would protect her unborn child to the death. The labor pains gave away her position, the groan escaping her lips and she knew she'd be found. The branches were pulled back and she was surprised to see two familiar faces. "Ephiny?"

"Gabrielle," She winced as Xena knelt down to inspect her head.

"It's a nasty gash but it'll heal. Your baby it's about due."

"I've already had some pain." Ephiny took a few breaths.

"What are you doing here?" Gabrielle kept looking around nervously.

"We were on our way to Athens. Phantes and I wanted to have the baby born there."

"Where is Phantes?" Ephiny steadied herself, she had cried so much since.

"He was trying to find a safe way around the battle. But he--" Her voice cracked, she didn't want to say it.

"What happened?" Xena prompted and she continued.

"He was captured and killed by Mitoans."

"When?"

"I've been hiding here for- I don't know, two, three days. Can't tell anymore. He died protecting me. Some Amazon, huh?"

"You can't blame yourself; there's nothing you could've done." Xena and Gabrielle moved away to talk, Ephiny keeping an eye out for anyone coming. Gabrielle looked worried as Xena walked off and knelt down beside Ephiny and took her hand.

"Where is she going?"

"Atoning." Gabrielle stayed close, giving her some food and water. "Ephiny, you don't have to talk about it, but I'm here if you do." She appreciated that and nodded her head.


Ephiny felt useless, she couldn't help anyone around her. All she could do was sit and relax, but at least she was inside and out of the elements.

"Ephiny!"

"I'm right here." She took Gabrielle's hand.

"I want- I want you to have my right- my rite of caste." She wouldn't take her damn rite of caste, she wasn't going to die.

"Stop talking like that."

"It's important. I won't need it." She refused to let her go, she wasn't going to lose another sister, not today.

"What did she mean- Rite of caste?" Ephiny looked over at the apprentice and sighed.

"It's a right passed on by Amazons on their death-- but I won't take it. I won't lose her, too."


This place was going to collapse and her contractions were getting stronger, the whole building was shaking and she had a feeling It would collapse any minute.

"We have to leave." Marmax came running over and tried to help her up.

"I can't! The baby is coming, now!"

"Xena, Xena, Xena!" Xena had done all she could for Gabrielle and just in time because this baby was ready to be born. She kept pushing but nothing was happening, she knew if the baby didn't come out they would both die. At the mention of the word breech, she knew no matter what she needed to save her baby.

"Do it, Xena, save my baby."

"Ephiny, I want you to look at this candle. Concentrate. I want you to watch it very closely. Think of Phantes and how proud he'll be of this little child. Stare at it so hard that you can see his face in it." The focusing only helped a small but she focused on that flame. She felt the hot knife being pressed into her flesh and ignore everything else. "You have a son." She had never thought she would cry, but she did and held onto him. She was able to clean him off herself, Xena rushing away at the mention of Gabrielle. She focused on him now, knowing Gabrielle would be in good hands.


Ephiny leaned against the pillar, feeding her son as she thought of some names. The entire time he fed, he was kicking around and causing Ephiny some trouble. "You are going to give me a run for my dinar, aren't you?" She helped him stand, unlike human children- Centaurs were able to stand from birth if given enough incentive. "That's it, you can do it." his legs were shaky but he was doing well, she caught him and helped him up again.

Catching sight of Xena, she had a spark of inspiration. What better name could she give her son? "Xenan," She smiled at him, kissing his little face.

"How are you feeling?"

"It's going to take some time, but I'll heal."

"May I?" Xena motioned towards Xenan, offering to hold onto him.

"Of course," She watched as Xena check him over and nodded, he looked healthy. "Xena, I want to thank you. We owe you our lives," Xena just smiled and handed the baby back to Ephiny. "I decided on a name and I know Phantes would approve. I'm going to call him Xenan, named after a great warrior and friend."

"It was my honor, he's going to be a fierce little warrior. He's got some strong blood in him, from both sides."

"Xena!" Ephiny looked over to see Gabrielle waving her over. "I want to see my Nephew, either take me there or I'm walking." Ephiny chuckled as Xena grabbed hold of Gabrielle and brought her closer to Ephiny and Xenan. The little guy was put in her arms and he seemed to settle down, "Hello, I'm your auntie, Gabrielle." She cooed, kissing his little cheek. He reached out and grabbed her nose and squeeze, which caused Gabrielle to laugh.

"We're going to rest here for a couple days, you shouldn't travel either."

"I'm going to need to get back, but first I have a few things to do. I convinced Marmax to help me find Phantes before he leaves for those peace talks. I want to bring him home, it's not a conversation I'm looking forward too but I can't leave him out here." Xena and Gabrielle stayed long enough to help Ephiny with the funeral pyre. She felt Gabrielle's hand on her back and she leaned against her as the flames burned. She wouldn't cry, she wouldn't do that in front of her friends.

Ephiny secured Phantes' ashes in her pack, making sure they were safe. She wasn't sure how far she would get, but she started her trip back to Amazon lands. She needed to go at a slow pace but even at slow, she couldn't account for all the wiggling Xenan was doing. She ended up pulling some stitches, luckily she wasn't far from the next village. The local healer fixed her up and told her to send word, "You won't make it all the way to Amazon lands, you need to send for someone." She knew it was practical to do, she sent word and within two days Solari was at her side. She didn't say why she needed an escort, but it was apparent when you took a look at her.

"My Queen," The look of concern on Solari's face said how horrible she looked. "What happened?" She knew the moment she started to talk about it, she would cry.

"Not here," Solari didn't say anything else but she helped Ephiny into the back of the cart. She made sure she and Xenan were secure before heading back to Amazon lands. That night they pulled off the road to rest, Solari slipping in the back with Ephiny and Xenan.

"Talk to me." She reached out and stroked her hair, Ephiny instantly melted into her arms.

"I watched it happen, I couldn't even protect him - myself." She cried softly, finally allow more tears to come. She told her everything that happened, trying hard not to wake Xenan. "I just want him back, I love him-"

"I know," Solari held onto her and gave her all the comfort she needed. "But you need to be strong for Xenan, you'll need each other." After breakfast, they headed for Amazon lands. When they arrived she didn't say much, she just locked herself away for days and focused on only Xenan.


"Ephiny," She looked up to see Queen Melosa standing there. "You've been avoiding your sisters for days, you've barely eaten and it is not healthy for you or your son." Melosa walked over and sat down next to her, Xenan was napping next to her. "I know you wanted to be the one to tell Tyldus, but he arrived yesterday and I had to break the news."

"I understand."

"He wants to talk to you, he's outside." Ephiny swallowed hard and nodded her head. Slowly she got to her feet, Melosa opened the door and waved him inside. She greeted him with a hug and explained what happened, sparing the extreme details.

"If not for Xena and Gabrielle, both of us would have died." Tyldus watched as Ephiny led Xenan over, the little Centaur was now able to walk on shaky legs almost on his own. "I named him Xenan." Tyldus picked up the boy, he looked just like Phantes.

"It's a fine name," Ephiny moved to the Centaur village for a while, so Tyldus could have his grandson around. She learned a lot about raising a Centaur, about his people. They mourned together and shared stories of Phantes as a boy.


The Centaur people honored the new Centaur prince and mourned the loss of a great one on the same day. Ephiny had cried so much since his death, she didn't dare shed another one, not now. The Amazons and Centaurs gathered together to pay respects, most stayed stoic, warriors putting on brave faces in front of guests. Each of Phantes brothers stood and took a turn telling a story, but now it was Ephiny's turn and she could feel the emotion building up. She wouldn't cry in front of them, she couldn't.

"Phantes was persistent, infuriating at times and he knew how to press every button and make me angry. He fought to win my heart but I didn't know how to give it to him. I was stubborn, which I will begrudgingly admit to but we all have our reasons. I had closed myself off to love, for a long time. I had a lot of bitterness and anger- it ate away at me. We all have lost family because of differences, land, pride and this treaty hasn't been easy. Two women came into our lives and changed us all for the better, showed us we don't always have to go for the sword. Xena and Gabrielle saved our tribes, saved our families and we owe them a debt. But now we must continue to fight for this peace, without war. We must think of the children, we can not let them grow up in this world. A world of war, pain, and loss that tore us to pieces. Xenan will never meet his father in this life, but we're going to make sure he never forgets him. He will know of him through stories, dreams, and legacy. Peace should be our purpose, so our Daughters and sons may never know pain like we all have felt." She held up Xenan and smiled, "This child is our bond, our tie, our treaty. May our nations continue to grow together." She handed Xenan over to Tyldus and placed her hand over her heart, "I will miss you, my love, I will never forget you."

TBC...