The demigod brought the ax down again to splinter more of the log. Damn! This thing has gotten out of hand. I can't go to her tonight. I can't just use her. How or why I don't know, but I have feelings for her. To take advantage of her would be the worst of sins. Besides that, what of Sira? I know my feelings for her won't change. How can I love another woman when I love her? It would be unfair to both of them.

I can't meet her tonight. If I get that close to her in the moonlight, I'll be lost. Not meeting her will hurt her, but not like my betrayal of her if I do meet her. Tomorrow I'll talk with her. I've got to make her understand.

The ax blow rang in the air. Damn. There's no way in the world I'm going to be able to do this without hurting her. I don't want to hurt her; I want to love her. Damn!

Sira found a place among the tall trees along the river to spread one of the blankets. With a few pats here and a tug there she was satisfied with the smoothness of their bed. The hunter stood back watching her with a tolerant smile on his face.

The girl looked up to raise an eyebrow at him. "What is so humorous?"

"You are. The blanket isn't going to stay nice and neat like that for long."

The empath smiled. I certainly hope not."

The hunter pulled her to her feet and into his arms. Burying his face in her hair he shivered with anticipation. "You smell wonderful."

She nuzzled his ear and he shivered again. She slipped her hands up under his vest to touch his back. Her hands sent a tingle across his skin that raised goose flesh. His mouth sought hers and she turned it to him willingly. His caresses were gentle and loving, his tongue on her neck light and delicate.

Her breathing became labored as he gently untied the laces of her dress then pulled the bodice aside to reveal her woven moss undergarment.

The flesh at the top of the brownish green camisole was white and soft and he kissed it, drinking in the scent of her and letting it arouse his desire with its teasing reminder of how sweet her flesh would taste.

Night descended as they made love beneath the trees.

A man who was once a god sat on a bench outside a mud hut, the hand of the woman he cared deeply for resting lightly in his, the sweet smell of her clean hair intoxicating him. He watched the boy who was his son as he played on a grassy patch near the hut with the empath's son. They played with small wooden figures the half yosemin boy said Hercules had made for him.

The demigod sat outdoors also, sharing easy conversation with the man he called father, since he was both father and friend in the tie of the earth.

A young girl, her mind strong with the earth bathed and perfumed herself in anticipation of the lover she hoped would come to her. She had meditated and prayed to the earth. She knew many of her village would think what she felt in her heart was sinful. She knew the danger to her if she were caught was a real one. The least she could expect was a severe reprimand. She would be left in shame, for this kind of punishment would be a public one. She could be banished from the healer's hall. The elders could shun her from all contact or even banish her from the village. Her clan standing could be stripped away, and with it her hope for the future of the young apprentices she hoped someday to guide.

And if she weren't caught? What then?

She realized using Hercules was unfair. Could she expect him to understand the tie of soul that drove her to her action. She knew without question what might happen between them was something he could never take lightly.

She was honest with herself and the earth. She wasn't just looking to experience life. She wanted the love the half god offered her and that she offered in return. She knew there could never be a total commitment between them. They were not mates of the soul. Somehow she was sure the half god had already found the one who would command that part of him completely. She hoped someday to find that for herself. But, she reasoned, since he could not have his soul's mate and she had not found hers, the feelings they had for each other could still be rewarding and lasting.

Would he be willing to go into promise with her? Would he want more and wish to become her mate? Would her people allow this even if he wished it? He had no real clan standing. He could, however, request entry into his sister of the soul's clan.

Would his request be granted? Would the earth approve? Here she felt an easing of her tension. She felt no disquiet in talking with the earth. She knew for her and Hercules to grow so close so soon the earth must be a part of this. Could the earth have a reason for bringing them together?

I must trust the earth, she told herself. I have never before felt such strength from my mother.

The earth's daughter lay in the hunter's arms, warm and comforted despite their state of undress.

"Iolaus, my soul. There is something you must know."

The golden one was mellow and relaxed. "Hmm?"

"Very soon I must do a healing and you may not approve."

"A healing on whom?"

Well, here it was. She dreaded telling her lover this. "Thysis and I both believe that Ares' powers of godhood are returning. I believe by healing him I can hasten that eventuality."

The hunter sat up then turned to study her face in the dim light of the moon that filtered through the trees. "You're serious," he stated rather than asked.

"Yes."

"I see. Your thought is, he recovers his powers then takes back his old job."

"Yes."

"He would again be the god of war."

"Discord must be stopped."

The hunter reached for his pants and pulled them over his hips without rising. "You really believe Ares is any better?"

"Yes, and so do you. There must be a god of war."

"This isn't going to be easy. It's been kind of nice having him around as plain old mortal Ares."

"I know. But that would be gone soon anyway. His powers are growing stronger. There is no way of knowing how quickly they will return or how completely. If I do not help him, he may not wait for his full strength and may go after Discord before he is once again immortal. I have no way of knowing just what parts of his godhood will come first."

"He may decide not to go for this. He stands to lose a lot."

"Yes, Nemesis and Evander. But I do not believe he would wish to remain mortal."

"You have to give him that choice, Sira."

"I know. Still, as I have said, his powers are returning anyway."

"This is going to kill Nemesis." The healer said nothing and the hunter took her into his arms. "You don't want to do this, do you?"

"No." Her voice broke. "I do not want to give him up, nor do I wish to hurt him, Nemesis, or Evander. I wish there were another way. I have prayed to be shown one, but the only thing I sense from the earth is that this is her will. I hate making decisions that mean pain and sorrow�" Her words trailed off. "And even death to a few to save the greater number."

"You're still bothered by that boy's death."

"I will always be bothered by his death. I could have saved him, Iolaus."

"And how many others might have died?"

"That is exactly my point. Now I must sacrifice a mother and her son's happiness to save the world from Discord."

"We may be selling them short, you know. They do care for each other. Even if he is a god once more, it doesn't mean he can't love and protect both Nemesis and Evander."

"Yes. It may not be the fairy tale ending I had hoped for, but there is still a chance for them."

The hunter pulled his vest on. "How dangerous is this for you?" The healer sat up to pull her undergarments over her hips then to slip her camisole over her head. "Sira?"

"I do not know the answer to your question. I have never done anything like this before. What will pass to me in the transfer is hard to say."

"Damn it, Sira." He rose and began to pace. "You're putting yourself in danger once again. I hate this."

Tears filled her eyes. "Then you hate me. For this is who and what I am."

He went to his knees beside her to pull her into his arms. "I'm sorry, Sira. I just can't stand to see you hurt."

"And I cannot stand by and allow innocent children to be slaughtered."

"Damn it, that boy's death wasn't your fault."

"Maybe. But if I do nothing to stop Discord, the next boy's death will be."

"How many innocent lives has Ares taken?"

"I know, my soul. Still, there must be a balance. And Ares has changed. Do not get me wrong. I do not profess to believe he is a saint. I know he is still filled with hate and anger. But these things are tempered with reason and even decency now. I also believe he will have learned much from his little journey through the mortal world. Buried deep beneath the anger and hate is love and compassion. We have been granted a glimpse of these hidden emotions. He has gotten a feel for the earth, and she for him. She would not be leading me to this if it were not what she wished for him and for those on her surface. Please, my soul. I must know. Will you be with me in this?"

"How can you ask? You know I will. I'll be there for you. Forever, one soul throughout eternity." She cried openly and he tightened his arms around her.

It was late before they returned to the hut. The cold drove them to seek its offered shelter. The demigod heard their return. He knew full well where they'd been and his imagination could supply an adequate picture of their reasons for staying out so late.

He'd retired early, hoping to fall asleep and avoid his loneliness and guilt. He knew Dasay had waited for him. He'd wanted to go to her, but didn't trust himself to keep his hands off of her if he did. They needed to talk. He had to at least try and make her understand.

He hadn't been able to sleep and the last few hours had been torturous. A dozen times he'd start to rise to go to her, and a dozen times he stopped himself. Better she be hurt now and hate me for it than to lose her innocence to me and hate me for that later.

You're a coward, he scolded himself. Have the common decency to go talk to her. No! I might not be about to resist her.

He rolled over. His body was on fire. He shifted positions again. With a sigh he rose. He'd dressed in his woven moss trousers after his bath then simply gone to bed in them. He pulled a long sleeved shirt of woven moss over his head and slipped his feet into suede moccasins. With a squaring of his shoulders he left the hut. He wanted to turn to his right. Maybe she still waited there. He forced himself to turn to the left, heading toward the river instead.

The healer rose from her place on the bench beside the hut. When the demigod hadn't come to her she'd walked about for a time then come to sit on the bench to be near him.

She wasn't hurt that he hadn't come to her. She had been at first, but the earth had comforted her. She knew why he'd stayed away. It only made her love him all the more.

With the silence of the forest creatures around her in the night she followed the half god. She found him standing near the river, his back to her.

She sent her mind to touch his and he jerked around as if shot with an arrow. "Dasay."

"I did not mean to frighten you."

"You shouldn't be here."

"I came to you, when you did not come to me." She took a step toward him and he stepped aside.

"It's wrong for you to be here."

"Why? You cannot tell me you do not care for me."

"I hardly know you."

"You still care, just as I care for you."

"You don't know what you're saying."

"I do know. We are meant to be together. Nothing you say will change that."

He turned away from her to look over the water. "I wish it were that easy. I'm not free to follow these feelings."

"I understand."

"No, you don't."

"I know you love the empath. I know you wait for her, and she for you."

"I'm sorry, Dasay."

"Do not be. I am not free to be all to you that I wish I could be, either. I long to someday meet my mate of the soul, and I owe myself to my people. Someday I will be the healing elder and a member of the council. My time then will be very limited. I know that we are not mates of the soul. I wish that we were."

"This is all the more reason why this thing between us must be stopped before it's too late."

"No. To embrace the feelings we have for each other is good and right. There can still be love between us, Hercules." She moved up behind him to put her arms around him. She rested her cheek against his broad back.

"Please, Dasay. I can't do this. I love another. This would be unfair to her, and to you." The girl's hands slipped to below his waist and he jerked away.

"I do not care that you love Sira. It takes nothing from our feelings for each other. Just as she loves Iolaus at the same time she loves you."

"There isn't a physical relationship between Sira and myself. There never will be while Iolaus is with us. That's the way we both want it. We both love Iolaus too much to hurt him like that."

"I would not care if there were a physical relationship between you. She is not free to be with you as a mate. Not yet, anyway. It really has nothing to do with the love you have for me?"

"We just met. How can you talk about love?"

"Because it is what we both feel." She came to stand before him.

With a moan he pulled her to him. "There could never be anything more between us than this. I can't marry you, Dasay. Not when I love Sira."

"I know. There could be the vow of promise between us, however. It would be a commitment to each other, meaning we are not free to be with another or to pursue another, while still leaving you free to love Sira, and for my heart to wait for my soul's mate." He said nothing. "I am not asking you to service me like some concubine. I love you. I want to be free to explore these feelings."

He moaned. She smells so sweet. He kissed the top of her head and she turned her face to him. His lips took hers. The kiss was meant to be a brief one before he sent her away. Her lips parted on his. Her tongue parted his lips with an urgent appeal and the kiss was anything but brief.

He pulled away. He couldn't seem to catch his breath. What is it that has captured me so completely? Then he knew the answer. She reminds me of Sira. Not the outward appearance, for one was dark, the other fair. It's their carriage and poise. It was the healer's gentle touch on his mind that stimulated him even more than her physical beauty, and the reason it touched him so deeply was because it reminded him of Sira.

He dropped his arms away and stepped back. "I can't do this."

"I know what you are thinking. It changes nothing. Call her name as you take me; I will not care. Make love to her through me. We are sisters. It will take nothing from the feelings I have for you."

He pulled her to him in anger and frustration. His hands on her arms hurt. His lips were demanding and insistent. Rather than frighten her, it excited her and she responded in kind.

He couldn't breathe. Her hands on his chest seared his skin even through his shirt. His kiss turned gentle and loving, and she moaned with her need to be with him.

Her hands began to unlace his trousers and he began to tremble. Stepping back she pulled her dress over her head in one fluid movement. She wore nothing under the dress.

She stood in a flood of moonlight, her nakedness an invitation to him.

"Dasay."

The single word was a caress and she threw her head back. He kissed her neck then slid his tongue down her throat, and lower to set her flesh on fire. His lips caressed her and she cried out with the feel of his lips on her heated flesh.

She unlaced his pants and slipped her hands below his belt and he grabbed her hands to stop her.

"Please Dasay. If we don't stop now I may not be able to."

"I feel your desire for me, my lover. Do not be afraid." His moan sent desire to overwhelm her and she reached for him to steady herself.

His arms around her and his mind on hers touched something deep inside of her. Her mind on his opened his emotions to the earth and the things the empath had taught him.

This time when her hands slipped below his waist he didn't stop her. He was lost in their mind's touch, surrounded and comforted by the familiar feeling the earth brought to him. He did love her. Not like he loved Sira. Not like the love he'd felt for Deianeira, or Serena. But love was the only word he knew of to describe his feelings for her. They went way beyond the physical need. He admitted he also relished the feel of the empath the healer's caresses brought to him. Feeling guilty about both girls, he couldn't seem to keep his hands off of her.

She helped him remove his shirt. The hair on his chest sent shivers up and down her spine. He sat on the grass to remove his shoes, but before he could rise she joined him. The grass on her naked back was like a lover's caress, and she arched her back to receive his lips on her abdomen. His hands caressed her, tickling and stimulating her. Setting her on fire.

He kissed her thigh on one side then the other, then slid his tongue across her middle. She wove her fingers in his hair to pull him tightly against her. She couldn't breathe. Her mind felt lost in her emotions as if she no longer controlled it, or her body.

When he moved to hover above her she begged him to take her, lifting her hips in invitation. He kissed the swell of her breasts and she moaned.

"It's not too late, Dasay. We haven't gone too far."

"Yes, we have. I want you now. Take me, my lover."

Her cry of pain and pleasure touched his heart, and tears filled his own eyes. What am I doing to her, and to Sira? Why must the flesh be so weak? "Dasay."

She moved her hips to receive him. "It is all right, my lover. I sense your thoughts. But surely you feel the earth as I do? How can this be wrong if the earth is with us?"

"I feel the earth, and I feel you, but I also feel someone else. This is unfair to all of you."

"I feel the empath, as well. She will not condemn you for this. She wants your happiness. I say again, call her name. I do not care. I know you have feelings for me beyond the ones you have for her."

"Dasay."

"I know, my, lover. I feel it too. Do not fight it."

His cry sent pain and pleasure through her, sending her body to a place it had never been before. For the first time since rising from the bench outside his hut she felt fear.

"It's all right, little one," he whispered. "This is as it's supposed to be."

"So intense?" Her words trembled with her emotions.

"Yes." He rolled over on the grass to pull her to him. "Don't cry. I'm sorry, Dasay."

"No. I cry out of love, not because I am sorry. I thought I would never find love."

"I can't be a yosemin villager."

"I know. I cannot leave my people for long."

"I know. So what now?"

"Now we find a way to slip away again when it is safe, and we love each other."

"What if the villagers find out? What if you're left with child?" His thoughts sent fear up and down his spine.

"I am not in season. If my people find out, then I will face that then. I will not give you up."

"This is so unfair to you. The risks are all yours."

"I do not care." She rolled over to watch him beside her. "You are so beautiful." Her hand moved to touch him and he reached up to caress her breast.

The chosen one was awake when the demigod slipped through the leather covering over the door to the hut. He stopped short as she looked up to watch his face.

He wanted to keep this from her, and yet his mind shouted to her with his guilt and his pain at what he felt was his betrayal of her. Setting aside the dish she'd been drying she came to stand before him. After a moment she took his hand and led him from the hut, out beyond the clearing and to the forest.

The morning was cold. The sun hadn't yet chased away all of the stars and the empath took a moment to watch them. She said nothing until they were past the village and her feet could feel the rich forest soil.

"You have done nothing wrong, my more than brother. You do me no discredit by loving another."

He turned to pull her into his arms. "I kept getting a sense of you, Sira. It wasn't only wrong for your sake, but for hers."

"No. There is nothing wrong with loving more than one. I love you and Iolaus."

"But to make that love physical."

"I am very physical with Iolaus. Since I cannot satisfy that part of you and she can, then I am glad for you both."

"What about later? What about us?"

"There will still be an us. She is not stupid, my more than brother. She well knows that in time you and I fully expect to have a physical relationship. On that I will not compromise. I want you in my bed when the time is right."

"Don't joke, Sira."

"I am not joking. If you and she are still together, then I guess we will have to share you."

"Sira!"

"I know you do not fully understand the workings of the earth in this, my soul. I wish I could relieve your dilemma. I would not ask you to give her up, but I will not give you up, either. Loving her, even in a physical way will take nothing from our love."

"Even if that's true, what about her? Would she be as open?"

"I believe she proved that last night."

"What about the danger to her in this?"

"Yes, she does face a real danger. The punishment for something like this, especially since she is the Dea and since you are not yosemin could be severe."

"As in how severe?"

"She could be stripped of her clan right and asked to leave the village."

"They wouldn't harm her."

"Not physically. Still, she is the Dea. She has been preparing for this for a long time. I believe she wants this chance to make some changes here in the village, and I believe she could make a real difference. She would be hurt deeply, I believe."

"Knowing all this, why did she take such risks?"

"Because the earth led her to you. I have prayed long and hard for you to find a mate."

"What happened last night was more than lust. I do have feelings for her. But mate? I don't think I'm capable of loving two women at the same time."

"But you already do, my more than brother. You love Xena. You still have feelings for Nemesis. Your love for both Deianeira and Serena still hold a part of your heart and soul. You love me and now you have feelings for Dasay."

"You make this all sound so logical and sensible."

She smiled at him. "I love you, my soul."

He took her lips in a lover's kiss and she melted into him. When he at last broke away from their embrace he had trouble breathing. "How is it possible to care so much for two women?"

"It is a gift from the earth, my brother." She changed the subject. "There is something I would ask you."

"Yes?"

"Thysis and I believe that Ares is slowly recovering his godly powers..."

The big man interrupted. "I wondered. He showed some real strength in bringing in that log from the forest to use as firewood. Then every once in awhile he gets this look."

"Yes, or his voice changes slightly." The girl nodded. "Thysis and I both believe he should try to reclaim his place as god of war."

He studied her face a moment. "I'm sorry, Sira."

She leaned into him and he offered his arms. "Yes. I will miss him very much. I also fear the pain this will put Nemesis and Evander through. Still, Discord cannot remain in power." Hercules said nothing, his mind lost in thought. "I know, my brother. You will miss him also. You have found a liking for your brother as the man."

"I never would have believed it possible, but that is exactly what's happened. Who'd have thought Ares would make a good husband, father, or brother?"

"I believe the things about him that have made him all of these things will reflect at least in part in his future dealings as a god. We can at least hope that is the case. Either way, he is the lesser of the two evils, if you will allow the crudeness of this statement."

"So, little one, what is it you wish of me?"

"I believe I can hasten his return to godhood by healing him."

"Now wait a minute here. You're talking about bringing back all the evil emotions that make him what he is and sharing them with him in a healing. Oil and water don't mix, Sira. He is evil, you are love. The potential for danger is far too great."

"He is not all evil, Hercules. At least not any longer. Being evil is not what made him a god, anyway. His evil came from anger and frustration and hate. These things came from a childhood of pain and from his mother's warped mind. Then add to this the power and arrogance being a god brings and you have a volatile situation. Much of that has changed. He has changed."

"Yes, he has. I only hope these changes will make the difference."

"I will not be alone in this. Thysis has agreed to help, as has Iolaus." She looked up to search his face. "I would be comforted to know you were there also."

He looked hurt and she reached up to smooth the frown from his brow. "Did you think I wouldn't be?"

"I had to ask. I know you are still not comfortable with Ares. At least the godly one."

"I couldn't stay away. Not when you're in danger."

"Thank you, my more than brother. I try not to assume on our love for each other. I have no real claim to you or your loyalty."

"Sira, how can you say that? Our feelings for each other make that claim."

"I feel this way also. Still, it would be unfair of me to assume on this."

"No, Sira it's not unfair. I will be there with you. Whatever my mind's power might lend to the healing will be there to help you."

She put her cheek against his chest, letting her feelings for him flow between them to comfort them both. "The healing will be greatly enriched by your earthly powers. If you have no objection, I would also like to ask Dasay to join in the healing. There is much she could learn from it."

"Why would I object?"

"Because she will also be exposed to the negative emotions that we both know are a part of Ares."

"Yes. Still, I have nothing to say about what she does."

Sira smiled at him. "Just as our feelings make the tie between us, the feelings you share with Dasay makes my asking you first the right thing to do."

He smiled at her. "If I said I didn't want her involved in this, would you not ask her?"

"Not necessarily. But at least I would know before asking her how you would feel about it and could pass that on to her."

"If she is anything like you, I don't think she would appreciate being told she can't do something."

"You have a point. She might just do it to spite you."

"Let it be her idea to help you," he teased.

"Then I will ask her today."

"Sira? Have you talked to Ares about this?"

"No, not yet."

"I sense your reluctance. You worry about Nemesis and Evander, don't you?"

"And Ares, as well. There is much he will miss in being a god once again. I believe he will wish my help, but I know there will be regrets also."

"Do you want me to talk to him?"

"Yes. But I will do it. There are things he may ask that only I can answer."

He nodded. "When you're ready, I will be too."

"Will you seek out Dasay, my brother?"

"No. I don't want to get her in trouble. I'll wait for her to come to me."

The healer smiled. She'd feared he would avoid the girl now because of the guilt he felt over what had happened between them last night.

"I hope I can stay away, that is. She's really gotten under my skin. I haven't slept, and yet rather than being tired, all I really want to do is take her in my arms and love her."

"I am glad, my brother."

"I'm sorry, Sira. That was unfair of me."

"No. What you have told me makes my heart soar. I am glad that there is someone in your life now that can share that part of you that I cannot."

"I know what you're telling me is the truth. I can sense that much." He shook his head, not sure how to put his thoughts into words. "I still have a hard time believing it, however."

"Did you think I would be jealous?"

"In a word, yes."

"You are not jealous that I have Iolaus."

"Sometimes I am."

"Not jealous, as much as envious?"

"Okay then, envious," he capitulated.

"I am envious of Dasay. You well know how I feel about you. I meant what I said about wanting a physical relationship with you when the time is right. I know how important the physical side of love is. I love you too much to want you denied that. I know you fear that you betray me, but you do not. No matter how much you love Dasay, and I hope the feelings you have for her grow, it will take nothing from me. Our love for each other will not change. Just as in loving you, my love for Iolaus does not change.

"The physical needs of the body are not the only things that make love worth having and sharing. It can be an important part, but not the only part. When you make love to her, you make love to me also. She and I are sisters. I know our love for each other will grow and mature, and that our tie of the soul will be a deep and lasting one. The fact that we both love the same man will only strengthen that, just as you and Iolaus loving me has strengthened the bond between you two."

"Then if that's the case why aren't you and I rolling around in the grass right now?"

The empath laughed. "Because Iolaus is not yosemin, and neither are you. You both feel very differently about such things than Dasay and I do. To become physical with you while Iolaus is still with us would hurt you more than it would him. He has found a way to see beyond the physical tie and embrace the soul's tie. Still, he would feel he had lost something in me if this were to happen and I do not wish to put him in this uncomfortable place. I do not want to heap guilt on your head, and being with me would do just that. I know how you feel about such things. This conversation proves that you would never forgive yourself for sleeping with your brother's wife."

"Are you saying you'd sleep with me if I felt differently?"

"I do not know. I fell in love with you as much because of your sense of values and your sensitivity. I cannot say I would love you if you felt differently."

He laughed. "I have a strong suspicion I won't find it easy to look past my guilt in this matter either."

"I know, my brother. I wish I could take that from you so that you could truly embrace your feelings for Dasay. But as I said, it is a part of you that I love."

He chuckled. "Okay, little healer. I guess what you're trying to say is I should follow my heart."

"Yes."

"I do want to be with her."

"Good."

"By making love to her, I make love to you. That doesn't take something from either of you?"

"No. It does not take from it, it adds to it. Love me, love my sister."

He kissed her again. "In that case, can we get back to this sharing thing?"

The empath laughed now. "Maybe not at the same time, but within the same week."

"I better hope my godly strength doesn't diminish."

"We might give you a day off once in awhile."

"Oh, thanks. Not at the same time, huh?"

"Well, we would have to see about that. Hercules and his harem. It does have a certain ring to it. Maybe we can get Xena and Nemesis to become your concubines as well."

"Now you're talking. I'm sure we can come up with a few more. Maybe the fifty daughters of Thespius?"

"Then maybe you had better ask Ares for a little of his Ambrosia once he has it back, because you are going to need it." He laughed and pulled her to him for a kiss. "If that is a promise of what will come, then I guess maybe you will be worth sharing."

"Oh, Sira. You always make me feel better." He covered a wide yawn.

"Go sleep, my brother. I will give the Dea your regards."

"You do that."

Sira called at the entrance to the healer's hall and a young girl came to answer the call. With lowered eyes she greeted the empath. "Honored one. How may I serve you?"

"I wish entry into the healer's hall in the name of the earth. I would like to speak with your Dea."

"Please, honored one, I am but a lowly apprentice. Will you wait while I seek one worthy of granting your request?"

"I will wait."

The girl stepped from the door, her eyes still lowered. "I will show you to a shaded area where you will be comfortable."

"Thank you, healing sister." The girl looked up to give her a quick smile and Sira smiled back.

The girl left the empath on the bench near the outdoor healing shelter and entered the hall through a back door.

It wasn't long before Melay came to her there. "You honor us, chosen one. What is it that you wish?"

"I would like to speak with the Dea if I may."

"She is resting. She was not well last night and asked to be excused from her morning lessons."

"I am saddened to hear that. Would it be possible for someone to come for me once she is well enough to accept visitors?"

"Perhaps I can help you."

"No, healing mother, but thank you for your generous offer. I wish to speak with the Dea, but there is no need to do so immediately. Later today or tomorrow will do."

"I will send a messenger if we are not in our lessons. Otherwise you may return tomorrow to inquire."

Sira had kept her eyes lowered in respect to the elder. Now she raised them to give the woman a narrow eyed look. "I do not mean to intrude."

"I will send a messenger."

"Good." The empath rose to take her leave, but as she turned she saw the Dea hurrying to meet her.

"Forgive me, my sister. I have only just learned that you wished to speak with me."

The elder looked displeased.

"You are feeling better?" the empath asked. The girl looked confused. "I hope you were not called from your rest to meet me."

"No. Lea told me you had asked for me."

Sira turned deliberately to the elder. "Thank you, healing mother. You have been most courteous." The dismissal was more than apparent in the empath's tightlipped words.

Melay turned to the Dea. "Do not be long, Daughter. Your lessons await."

"Yes, my mother."

Sira waited until the elder was once again behind the door of the hall before turning to the beauty beside her. "Will you walk with me, Dasay?"

"If you wish."

Sira led the way with the girl slightly behind her. "Come, we are sisters. Walk beside me." The girl moved forward but refused to raise her eyes. "So things have become awkward between us?"

"I know why you are here. I am not sorry for what happened last night and I refuse to make excuses."

Sira smiled then linked her arm through the other girl's. "I have not come here to reprimand you for caring for my more than brother. You are right; I do know about you and Hercules. He tried to keep it from me for your sake as well as mine, but he needed the comfort our closeness could bring."

"Comfort for what?"

"His guilt. He is a man of deep emotions. His morality and sense of values run even deeper. He feared he had done us both a disservice. You might have been wise to allow your feelings for each other to mellow before acting on them."

The girl stiffened. "I thought this was not a reprimand?"

"It is not. I meant only that with time he would have come to me first and been spared the pain of his own conscience. I did not mean that your feelings would lessen or that what you did might have been avoided with time to sort out your feelings. I understand the needs of the body and the needs that loneliness can manifest in all of us."

"I care for him, Sira. I never meant to hurt him. I thought he felt the same." Tears filled the girl's eyes. "I threw myself at him, practically forcing him to� To..."

Sira stopped walking to stand before her. "No, my sister, I did not come her to make you feel guilty. He was with you because he wanted it as much as you did. Knowing his strong emotions, maybe even more than you did. Still, his sense of guilt was inevitable. Humans view these things differently than the earth's people."

"I did not mean to hurt you, Sira."

"You did not. He is free to be with you whether he believes this or not. I was not hurt. I am filled with joy that he has found someone special to share his feelings and his needs with. I am concerned for you. You put yourself at great risk."

"I know. I was foolish to be so careless."

"Did you say that you were ill during the night?"

"Yes. Melay never misses anything and commented on the dark circles under my eyes. I said that I had not rested well during the night and she excused me from my lessons so that I could rest."

"But you were not resting when I arrived."

"No, I was in the kitchen. Lea came to tell me that you were waiting to speak with me. I almost feigned illness again to keep from having to meet with you."

"Why?"

"Because I feared you would hate me."

The empath put her arms around the girl. "For loving my more than brother? I know how easy he is to love. But your being with him takes nothing from me."

"At first I kept telling myself you would accept this with grace. Then I became afraid and began to make up all these arguments I could use to convince you what I did was right if you did take this badly. Now they all seem foolish."

"Arguments like I am being unfair to him? Like the earth brought you together? Like I should not stand in the way of his happiness even if it means he is not free to be with me once I am free to be with him? "

The Dea lowered her eyes. "I am sorry, my sister."

"Do not be. I would have thought of the same things. You are right. As for being free to be with me, only the earth can answer that. I would not want to give up a chance to be with him in the ways of the soul or of the body."

"I would step aside to leave him free to be with you. I know how deeply he feels for you."

"He would not find giving you up that easy, my sister. He is not the type to take his pleasure and say goodbye. I suggested we might share him."

The Dea nodded. "Yes, I know that is sometimes done when one or another of those mated find their soul's mate. It is from the time before the remembered time, but the law has not been changed."

"You have done your research."

The girl blushed. "I have done some, yes. Yesterday, before I asked him to meet me."

"What did you find about going into promise with one not of our people and with no clan standing?"

"That is different, I am afraid. It does not help that I am the Dea. I am supposed to set an example for the other apprentices."

"Have you spoken to him about this?"

"No." The girl sighed. "We did not talk much last night."

The healer chuckled. "He could ask for permission for clan status as my brother and as the chosen son of Thysis. Thysis would have a great deal to say about this since he is the elder of the clan of the wolf and the lion."

"He should still have the backing of others of the council."

"Yes. It must be Hercules who asks this of the elders. It cannot be asked for him."

"Iolaus has clan standing, does he not?"

"Yes. Thysis granted him that."

"So if one outsider can be a member of the clan, another one can."

Sira smiled. "I like the way your mind works so quickly, my sister."

"You really are all right with this?"

"Yes." Sira hugged her again. "I want your promise that you will be open and honest in your dealing with both Hercules and myself. No secrets. There may be times when you feel jealous. Together we can work on this. There may be times when you will need him and he will be with Iolaus and myself. You must understand he would not willingly give these things up."

"I know that. You also may at times be jealous. I have no wish to steal him away from you, only to love him."

"I know. You must understand that you could not steal him away. Our minds and souls are too tightly linked for that to happen."

"Then I will learn to share him. But I will not give him up of I do not have to. Who is to say that I will not find my mate of the soul? Then things might change. A physical relationship between us might cease, but my feelings for him will not."

The empath nodded. "I can sense your feelings for him and am filled with joy. He is a very lucky man to have inspired such feelings from one he has known such a short time. The earth is indeed strong in you, my sister. Which brings me to the real reason for calling on you. You can believe it was not because I enjoy trading pleasantries with the healing mother."

"She can come on strong at times, but she has her tender moments."

"You are a true earth's child. The reason I came to you is to ask if you would like to help in a healing I feel sure will come about soon."

The Dea was shocked. "You would allow me to participate?"

"Yes, I would welcome your strong mind in the healing."

"What kind of healing will this be. No one is ill."

"Not in so many words."

The empath went on to explain about Ares. The Dea listened to all that she had to stay, asking intelligent questions when she felt the need of clarification. Sira could feel the girl's mind on hers, listening with her mind as well as her ears, and Sira's friendship toward the girl who loved her more than brother deepened.

They'd taken seats on the grass, and as they talked the grass bent to surround the empath in its comfort. The Dea was fascinated by the earth's response to one of her own. A blue-white light surrounded the empath, and through her the Dea could feel the energy of the light on her skin. With a rush of insight she realized she really knew very little about the powers of the earth she hoped to someday command and be able to teach others about. She felt innocent and naive in the chosen one's presence. The power she seemed to sense beneath the empath's calm exterior sent a feeling of almost fear through her. How could this quiet, pale beauty possess so much of the earth? Was she the earth's chosen one, or the earth herself?

"So, my sister, would you be willing to help me in this?"

"Yes, my sister. I know I will learn much. I want this chance to learn at your side."

"You understand the dangers?"

"Yes."

The empath smiled. "Hercules has also agreed to help in the healing."

The girl's face lit up. "I will get a sense of him through our minds linked in healing."

"Yes. Thysis and Iolaus have also agreed to help."

The girl looked disappointed. "Then I should guard against my feelings for Hercules."

"No. There will be no censure from them in this."

"What about Ares? Would he use this to harm Hercules or myself?"

"No. I do not believe he would do that. He would have no reason to harm you, and his feelings for Hercules have changed. I think it will be safe for all of us to be in the healing together."

"Will you speak with the healing mother, or shall I?"

"It might come better from you than me. I do not think that she likes me very much."

"She was not pleased with all that you told us yesterday. She is not as open minded as you are, my sister. She has never been away from the village. In her secluded life as a healer she has had very little contact with the outside world. She knows only what her healing mother taught her."

"What of the history of our people that you keep in the council hall? Surely she has been trained in this as well?"

"No. That is not a part of our education. The council hall is open to any of us but the education of our ancient ways is reserved for our scholars."

"The problem with that kind of education is it gives only the one view point."

"Are you saying that our training may be incomplete?"

"Very much so. Despite being ostracized from his village Thysis did retain the scholar's training he received as well as his own book of our legends that pass from one generation to the next. He has studied again in his pilgrimage to the yosemin villages. He knows much. He should spend time with the apprentice healers each day to help broaden their knowledge."

"Melay would never permit this."

"No, but she should."

"I will speak with Melay and ask her permission for me to participate in the healing."

Sira smiled at her. "I am sorry. I should not have questioned your teacher or her way of teaching. I did not mean to make you uncomfortable."

"I understand. I must go now, my sister. I have kept the healing mother waiting far too long. I will seek you out tomorrow and let you know what Melay has said."

"Thank you, Dasay. Promise me you will be careful." They both knew what the chosen one referred to. The Dea nodded then rushed back to the village.

Sira followed behind her, taking her time. The forest was pleasant, but she admitted she wasn't really dallying because of this. Her next move should be to speak with Ares. She was putting this off and she knew it. It did her no credit, but she decided to go with the impulse for the moment.

She returned to the hut. It was almost midday and she hadn't eaten yet. She found the former executioner in the corner of the hut that did duty as a kitchen busily cutting up a melon to be arranged on a pottery plate. The clan markings on the plate were the sign of the eagle and the wolf. Many of the clans had chosen the wolf as their symbol. The wolf was the protector of the earth's people and of the forests where it made its home.

The dark haired girl looked up to smile at the empath. "I looked for you earlier. I wanted to thank you."

"To thank me?"

"Yes, for bringing us here. Everyone has been so wonderful. Yesterday after you went to the forest Evander and Hercus were playing together. Evander used his powers where several people could and did see him. No one seemed to mind. They smiled at him as if this was something he should be proud of. Thysis has commented more than once on his strength of mind and has offered to help him find a way to bring that power under control.

"Hercus has been so good with him. Your son is just so wonderful. He's kept Evander occupied as if he were no older than Evander himself. He seems not in the least embarrassed to play in the dirt one moment then to be taking my son to task for a misdeed. The boys don't seem to talk much, but I know they're communicating with their minds the whole time.

"Look, we now have a table and two benches. Made just for us. There are two chairs to come." The former goddess put down the knife she was using and came to hug the empath. "Oh, Sira. I never knew people could be so friendly. Through Thysis the council has now said that I can stay as long as I wish."

The empath smiled at her. "I am overjoyed that you have found a place for yourself and Evander here among the people of the earth." What the healer didn't say was that she feared her friend would soon need a safe haven more than ever.

The healer avoided Ares deliberately. She knew she must talk with him, and to delay was foolish, but that did little to relieve the ache in her heart. What she must soon do frightened her, but that wasn't the reason she hesitated to speak with her brother. She dreaded what his return to godhood would do to him. Would he be strong enough to retain some of his humanity once he was a god once more? She just wasn't sure. She knew how much she would miss the mortal Ares. Their bond had deepened and strengthened in the weeks just past.

It was Thysis' tug on her mind that pushed her to seek out the dark warrior. He was with the elder at his hut. With shoulders hunched by what must come the healer sought out the former god.

Both Ares and Thysis looked up from their game of chips to greet her. "My brother. I would like a word with you, please."

Ares gave her a tolerant smile. "Yes, my sister, in just a moment. I'm winning and I have no intention of stopping now."

Sira watched the play a moment, not really following the intricacies of it. She was too nervous to concentrate.

"Ah ha. I got you, my father," the dark one bragged.

"Yes," the elder agreed calmly. "Now you only need to beat me ten more games to catch up."

Ares moaned. "Well, it'll have to wait. It looks like I'll have a much prettier companion for a time."

The old one nodded. "Yes. She is also a better chips player."

Ares moaned again.

Sira offered her hand and the former god took it to follow her. "What is it, Sira?"

"Not here. Walk with me by the river."

"Is something wrong?" The empath sighed but made no answer. She wasn't sure how to answer. "Sira?"

The girl stopped by the river to turn and face him. "Please, my brother. Will you trust me for a moment and do as I ask?"

"I guess so, but what's this all about?"

"Just trust me." He shrugged in capitulation. The girl closed her eyes, willing her mind to relax. "Open your mind to mine. Just like you did in the healings. Let me guide your mind for a moment." With a sigh of resignation he closed his eyes and did as she'd asked.

"Feel the earth around you. Let your mind flow with it. Now, my brother, look deep inside. Follow my lead."

He drew in a quick breath and reached out to grab at her to steady himself. She opened her eyes to find him staring hard at her. "What is it, Sira?" he whispered.

Tears filled her eyes to splash from the corners and stain her cheeks. She'd hoped against hope that she'd been wrong, and that when she touched him with her mind she would find nothing of the god still a part of him. But now there could be no doubt.

"What you felt, my brother, was the returning of your godly powers."

His eyes narrowed accusingly as if he feared he was the brunt of some sadistically cruel joke. She searched his eyes, letting her mind touch his. "You mean this, don't you?" he whispered.

"Yes. I have suspected it for some time, but was not sure until just now."

He grabbed her shoulders. "Why didn't you say something sooner?" There was anger in his voice; a strength in his hands that spoke of his return to godhood.

"You are hurting me."

He shook her. "Why, Sira? Why didn't you say something and spare me these weeks of anguish?"

"Because I was not sure. It would have been even harder on you to have your hopes build, only to find I was wrong. Because I wanted you, Nemesis, and Evander to be together. Because I wanted you near me as Ares. I wanted to be wrong." Her voice had risen as she spoke but now it softened as she whispered, "Because I do not want to let you go."

He pulled her into his arms. His lips were gentle on hers and she responded. His kiss became demanding and she responded to this as well. His hand moved to cup her breast for just a moment then he pulled violently away.

"I'm sorry, Sira. That was wrong of me. You know how I feel about you but it was wrong of me to take advantage of you."

"I love you also."

"I've hurt you." His whispered voice was filled with compassion as he eyed the darkening marks his hands had left on her shoulders.

"It is nothing."

"I'm sorry, my sister." He turned to look out over the river. "Only days ago I would have ended my life because the thought of living it without my powers was more than I could stand. Now�" He didn't complete his sentence but his mind on hers told her much.

"Now you will miss this world as much as you will be missed in it."

"So now what?"

"Discord must be stopped."

"So once I'm a god again, I recover the sword and go back to being Ares, god of war." The healer didn't say anything, but she did increase her depth of mind power to send him comfort. "The problem is, there is much here I will miss." Still the girl said nothing. "I don't know if I can be the god of war any longer."

The empath sobbed and he turned to her. The look on his face sent pain through her and her breath caught on another sob.

He came to take her into his arms. "So, when is this return to godhood thing going to really happen?"

"I do not know for sure. You must think about this, my brother. Thysis and I feel sure you will once again be a god, although just how much of your powers will return we cannot know. But even if you once again possess them all, you do not have to accept the god of war's sword."

"Then how do we stop Discord?"

"You said yourself I could take the sword. I would not wish to keep it, but it would buy us some time."

"You'd do this for me?"

"Yes."

"I guess I'll have to think about this. This should be an easy decision, and yet it's not. The sword is mine. I will be a god again. Ares, god of war." He sighed. "All I can think of is Evander and Nemesis. Damn it, I love them. I don't want to give them up."

"I am sorry, my brother. There is something else you should know. Thysis and I both believe that if I were to heal you, your return to godhood would be a matter of days only."

"You could heal this also?"

"I believe so."

"Why would you be willing to do this?"

"Because the stakes have changed. A little boy lies dead in the earth because of Discord's evil and hate. But also because I told you once that if there were a way to return your powers to you, I would. And also, because I love you and I fear you will never really be content in the role of a mortal."

He rubbed a knuckle across her cheek. "Will this healing put you in danger?"

She hesitated. "I do not know." He looked skeptical. "I have never done a healing like this one. I have no idea what might pass to me. I must be honest. I am not even sure how to proceed. I will simply follow my heart and the earth, and let my training guide me."

"I wouldn't want to put you in danger, Sira. What does pass to you, would it� I mean..."

"No, my brother, I do not believe it would be permanent. A healing always leaves the healer changed in some ways. To touch another so profoundly is to be influenced by that person."

Now the former god looked uncomfortable. He wasn't sure he wanted this girl he cared so much for to feel his inner demons. He was smart enough to know that with a return of his powers, the things that made him the god of war would also return. Dare I risk her wrath if she knows the real me? Do I have the right to risk her?

"Sometimes we must take risks to help people." She'd read his mind. "The risk to me is nothing compared to the risk the world is in at the hands of Discord. I know there will be anger and hate. Frustration and maybe even evil in this healing. I am frightened, but I am ready to take the risks needed to make your return to godhood a speedy one."

"The things you just described are all the things you're not. You're the balance of good to my evil. Can we temporarily mix the two?"

"I do not know. To my knowledge nothing like this has ever been attempted."

"What if I chose to simply let my powers return on their own?"

"There is no telling how long that might take or how complete the return to godhood would be. There is much at stake here, my brother. To delay only puts a greater number of innocent lives in danger. It is, of course, your choice. But if you do decide to wait I will try to recover the sword myself."

He turned to pace before her. The empath could feel his churning emotions. How can I weigh something like this against my feeling for my son and his mother? What of Sira? I could be putting her in real danger. Then there are your feelings for her to consider. But then if you're a god again you'll be able to wait for her. She may well be yours someday if you're immortal. But to risk losing Evander. What of the world, itself? Will Discord stop with the death of just a few? Then, too, she could be a real threat to those I care for. Somehow I don't think she's just going to forget about me. Would Sira be able to take the sword from her? What if she couldn't? She's not immortal; she could easily die. But another god could fight Discord. Another god, or this god?

"When could you do this healing?"

"You have decided, then?" The girl's voice was filled with despair.

"I think you knew before you told me of this what my answer would be."

"I could do the healing when you are ready. I have a request first, however. You must promise me something." He stopped his pacing to watch her face but he said nothing. "Once the healing is complete I must sleep for a time. Promise me you will not attempt to recover the sword, yourself. You must wait for the rest of us."

"Don't be foolish. If haste is important, why wait? I can pop in there, get the sword and pop out, just that quick. I don't need your help or the help of the others."

"Like you popped in and rescued your son? If you had waited for the rest of us you might never have lost your powers in the first place."

His face darkened with anger. "What makes you think you could do anything, anyway?"

"I am stronger than Discord. At least I was when we confronted her the first time. I do not believe she has found a way to use the power of the sword yet, or she would have come after you. My powers of the earth might just be able to stop her. With our powers combined I know she can be stopped. Remember, you no longer retain the sword's powers. You may be a god, but will you be immortal without the sword? Will you have all of your powers without it?"

"Very well, then, you have my word. I will wait."

"Your word as Ares, and as Ares, god of war?"

He looked annoyed. "Yes, as Ares, and as the god of war." His voice was harsh.

"There is one more promise I wish you to make." Not waiting for his reaction she rushed on. "You promised me once that you would not harm me or my family. I would like that promise again."

"That's an easy one. You have my word, and the word of the god of war."

"Including Hercules."

"Damn it, Sira, you push your luck."

"I want your word."

"And if I refuse to give it?"

"Then I will go for the sword myself. You will have to wait for your godly powers to return."

He looked amused. "Then you have my word. I will not harm you, your family, or Hercules."

"This includes Nemesis and Evander as well."

Now he looked hurt. His voice was whispery. "Do you really think I could harm them?"

"Not you, but Ares, god of war."

"The two aren't as individual as you seem to think. I couldn't harm them."

"You will allow Nemesis to stay here and to keep Evander with her?"

"Yes, if that's what she wants. I hope I can convince her to allow me to see both her and the boy." He turned eyes filled with emotion to her. "I don't want to give them up."

The healer nodded. "Should Nemesis seem resistant to this I will talk with her."

"Aren't you going to ask for my word as Ares, and the god of war?"

"No. You said yourself they are not such individual beings as I had once thought. Now I am glad. It means you will retain something of the man you have become once you are a god once more."

"Yes, I will retain something from it. I can't guarantee how or how much it will change the god of war."

"You could allow it to be a major influence."

"As the god of war I was often worse than even Discord can imagine."

"Then do not be that way. You have seen and felt another side of yourself. Let that other side control you."

"There has to be war, Sira. It's a fact of life. It's human nature."

"Then let the wars be started by human nature, and not by you."

"What if I can't live up to your expectations?"

"Then you and I may battle someday."

He laughed. "You truly are my little warrior. This has done me good, my sister. To do verbal battle with a worthy adversary has stimulated me."

"Now you sound like the god."

He laughed again. "You make me feel like a god again already."

She nodded and he came to take her into his arms. "I'll miss being so close to you."

"I will miss it also. In the healing we must be as one. Our bodies, our minds, our souls. We will have to get along and not fight."

"Are you telling me to behave myself?"

"Yes."

"Now you must make me a promise."

"What is that?"

"If we start this and you find that it is too dangerous, I want your word that you will halt the healing." She searched his eyes. "I mean it, Sira. I want your word."

"I could not just stop the healing. That could bring us both harm. But I could slow it down and sever our tie after the time of physical touch had passed."

"Your word, my warrior."

"Very well. You have my word."

He nodded. "There is something I must do first. Give me what remains of this day and night. I'll come to you then."

"Not too long, my brother. I fear for the innocent people out there."

He kissed her, parting her lips with his. She could feel his hunger in the kiss. She wasn't frightened by it, however.

After a moment he pulled away from her. "As a god I can wait for you, my sister."

"Will there be Ambrosia left, do you think?"

"I'm sure there will be. But if not, as a god I can find it."

"Then save a little for me. Someday I may want it."

He smiled at her. "You will rule beside me, Sira. An equal in all things."

"It is something to look forward to, my brother."

He pulled her back into his arms, opening his mind to her as he did. Its touch on her mind gave her comfort. When he broke away from her she felt bereaved. Without another word he turned away and headed up the riverbank. Nemesis was at the river washing her clothing with the young apprentice healers from the hall.

Sira went to her knees on the grass at her feet then laid down on her stomach, her arms spread wide to embrace the earth. Her prayer to her mother was not spoken in words, but in the way of her people; with the mind. Coming here had been hard for her. Being near her people had frightened her. She remembered now many of the things she had always felt held her race back, making their end a promise when it could be made a lie if the yosemin people could but learn to adapt to the changing world around them.

Perhaps she wasn't the hope for the future as these strong minded people seemed to think. Perhaps their real hope lay with the Dea. Once she was a healing elder and a member of the council she would have real power among her people. If the Dea could be made to see the danger in continuing with the old superstitions and fears she could quite possibly turn this small group of earth's people around.

The dark warrior found the former executioner at the river washing her clothing in the water of the large pool that ran close to the village. She looked up from her task to give him a warm smile. His heart constricted. She really is beautiful, he thought. There will be much I'll miss about being here as a mortal. He looked passed the mother to the boy playing on the grass nearby.

He offered his hand to the boy's mother. Without hesitation she took it and he pulled her to her feet. "Walk with me?"

"I'm almost done here, then I can."

"It is well, my sister," the Dea told her. "I will finish your things and take care of Evander. Take your time." The young healer had a good idea why the former god had come to ask Nemesis to walk with him. "If you are long I will keep Evander with me at your hut."

"We shouldn't be long," the former goddess stated.

"Still, should you be, do not worry."

"Thank you, Dasay."

Ares sent a smile of thanks to the girl as well, then turned to lead Nemesis back the way he'd come.

Dasay finished washing her clothing and that of her new friend then spread the clothing on bushes to dry. Taking two apples from the pack she'd brought with her she took one to Evander and kept the other one for herself.

The boy took the apple, taking a large bite. "Where is Mommy going?" he said around the apple he still chewed.

"She has gone for a walk with your father. I get to watch over you."

He took another bite. "Can we watch Hercus at target practice again?"

"I do not see why not." The girl took a bite of her own apple.

"Want to play with me? These stones are the villagers and this bigger stone is Uncle Hercules. The village is being attacked by some bad guys and Uncle Hercules is going to rescue the village."

"I would love to play with you. What part do I play?"

Ares walked slowly along the river, simply enjoying the feel of the hand he held in his. He found a quiet place to stop, well away from the village. There was an old tree trunk for them to sit on and he motioned the girl to it. He hesitated, having no idea how to start this conversation.

"Something's wrong, isn't it?" There was fear in the girl's voice.

He sat beside her and once again took up her hand. "My godly powers are slowly returning." He stated it bluntly, because he could think of no way to do otherwise.

The former executioner gasped. "How can you know that?"

"I've felt it, and so have Sira and Thysis. There's no way of knowing just how much will return to me. I won't have the power of the sword, and I can't know if I'm immortal." Nemesis tried to pull away from him but he held her fast. "We need to talk."

"You're going after the sword, aren't you?"

"It's one way of guaranteeing my complete return to godhood."

"You don't have to go for the sword. Even if you're a god again you don't have to be the god of war."

"There must be a balance and Discord must be stopped."

"Let someone else be the god of war."

"Who, Nemesis?"

"It's not really that, anyway. You want this again. You haven't changed. You want the hate and evil back. You enjoy being cruel and sadistic."

"I did once. You're right, I do want to be the god of war again, but not so that I can be evil and cruel. Don't you see, Nemesis? I am the god of war. The position of the god of war was created for me. I was born to do this; tortured and abused as a child to prepare me for this. I crave the power being the god of war gives me. I wish it were otherwise, but it isn't. This is who I am."

"What about..? I'd hoped�" She stammered as tears spilled from her eyes.

"I know. I hoped for that also. You could come back with me. I could still make you a god or you could stay as you are now. I swear I'll take good care of you and Evander."

"No. I don't want Evander raised that way."

"He is half god."

"Yes, but he doesn't have to be like the gods. Hercules isn't. You forget, I was raised a god. I know how petty and selfish they are. Every one of them is self important and arrogant. I don't want that for Evander."

He nodded as he let his breath out with a sigh. "Very well, but I would like to see him. I would like to see you." She stiffened. "I swear to you, I won't harm you or Evander. He'll remain with you. I only wish to visit him once in awhile."

"You say that now, but what about once you're a god again? What then? Will your word mean anything, then?"

"Yes, Nemesis, it will."

"Have you thought about what this will do to him? He loves you so much. You've forced your way into our lives and made us love you. Now that we do you want to rip all that from us."

"It won't be like that, Nemesis. I'll visit often."

"I don't believe you." She tried to pull away from him. He stood up but refused to release her. "You can't keep running, Nemesis."

"Let me go. I hate you!"

"No," he whispered. "Don't say that."

"Why can't you leave me alone? Leave Evander alone? You've brought us both nothing but sadness and pain. I hate you, and I hate what you're doing to me now." She tried to hit at him but her pinned her arms against his chest.

"I can't, Nemesis. Damn it, I need your love as much as you need mine. I do love you. Why can't you believe that?"

"No!" She screamed in anger and pain. "No, you have no right," she sobbed, leaning toward him for support. "Let me go," her voice was now a whisper. "I hate the things you can do to me. You don't need me; you never have. You don't care for anyone or anything besides yourself."

He turned her face up to him and took her lips gently. "I do care, Nemesis. I always have." He kissed her again.

She kissed him back, then her kiss became demanding. She kissed his neck and his bearded chin, his eyes, his lips. "I don't hate you. I'm sorry I said those things." She put her hands in his hair to pull his mouth tightly against hers, seeking his tongue with her own. "I don't hate you. I love you." She slipped her hands under his vest to caress his chest. He's so powerful! her mind shouted with desire.

"Promise me you won't hurt me or Evander."

"I swear it."

She bit lightly at his lower lip. "He can stay with me?" He nodded then kissed the cord that ran from behind her ear to her throat. "Will you come to me as Ares sometimes? Not as the god of war, but as you are now?"

"I'll do my best. I would like that very much." He kissed the pale skin that showed at the top of her dress's neck line and she threw her head back to expose more of herself to him.

With hands that trembled he began to unlace the back of her dress. She caressed him with her hands. Even through the leather he wore her hands set him on fire.

His kisses stayed gentle even though his mind screamed at him to hurry. He helped her pull the dress over her head. She wore a silk half shirt to match the silk underthings she wore. He pulled her to him to caress her flesh with his tongue and teeth through the material. Cupping her breast he brought it to his mouth and she whimpered.

His hands slipped beneath her undergarment and she began to tremble. Her hands were so unsteady that she could only fumble with the laces of his trousers. With his mouth still teasing her he unbuckled the belt that held his vest together then removed it and the vest.

Her hands dug into his back and he moaned. She moved her hands back to their objective. Still her fingers refused to cooperate and the lacings of his trousers refused to yield to her insistent tugging.

He unfastened them for her and she slipped her hand beneath the restrictive confines of his pants.

"I need to take off my boots."

"Then hurry."

He sat on the grass to pull his black leather boots off then rose to step from his pants. He never wore anything under the pants, and as they passed his hips the girl took in a deep breath. A hand to her chest spoke of her difficulty in breathing past the constraints her passion put on her lungs.

He pulled her top over her head slowly, letting the soft silk garment caress her. He was rewarded for his effort by the puckering of her skin with goose flesh.

He cupped both breasts in his hands then took her lips again.

"I want you," her words were breathless. He kissed where his hand had just been then slipped his hand once again past the draw string of her undergarments. "Please, Ares. I can't wait."

"There's no hurry."

"You're driving me mad."

He knelt before her to slide her undergarments down over her rounded hips then leaned forward to kiss her inner thigh.

She moaned. His arms around her legs were the only things that made standing possible. Her legs were too weak to hold her up on their own.

She went to her knees beside him, moving her hand to caress him. He took her shoulders and gently laid her on the grass.

He kissed her thigh, then trailed kisses higher. The touch of his lips on her sensitive flesh wrenched a sob from her that set him on fire.

She moved her hips in a circular motion, lost in her fervor. Her tension built until she thought she would scream. When her release of pleasure came she tightened her knees around him as her cry echoed along the river.

Not waiting to let her rest he moved to hover above her, going gently, letting her set the pace. Her eyes grew large as he took her. Deep in their brown depths he read her thoughts. He knew she feared for the future. His own fear of what was to come reflected in his own eyes and she reached up to caress his cheek.

Somehow she hadn't given any thought to his feelings in this. She knew now he, too, would have regrets at the choice he'd made. Her heart swelled with her feelings for him and she began to move her hips faster.

His breathing was ragged. His pulse raced, and yet each time he could have ended their lovemaking he stopped to allow his body to relax for a moment, putting off what he feared might be an end to even more than his body's needs.

"I'll welcome you in my home, my lover," she whispered. He closed his eyes at her words. "You mustn't stay away for long. We need you."

He quickened his pace and she began to moan with each thrust. Her cry of release joined his to be lost in the dense forest and he slumped down beside her in the grass. She moved to rest her cheek on his chest and his hand encircled her to pet her hair.

"I love you, Ares."

"I love you, too. You and Evander. You have my word, I won't harm either of you."

"I believe you." His arm tightened around her.

The Dea gathered the last of the laundry, and taking Evander's hand headed back toward the village. The other girls had already returned. She'd stayed longer than was needed for the clothing to dry because she felt the need of the forest around her.

She wasn't really sure why, but she felt melancholy. Perhaps it was just for those in turmoil around her. She longed to seek out the demigod but had vowed to herself that she would not. He must now come to her. He'd said she took all the risks, but now she knew this wasn't really true. He risked his own feelings of self worth. His sense of values had been tested last night at her insistence, and she felt guilt of her own that her lust had caused him to doubt himself.

She also felt apprehension at the upcoming healing. She'd never been in a serious healing. While Ares wasn't wounded or ill, the young apprentice knew the healing would test her knowledge and her earthly powers. Melay had not taken the news well.

"You are not ready for such a monumental undertaking. Besides, what do we know of the human gods. This is not for you, Dasay."

"But it is. I cannot afford to pass up this chance to learn from the chosen one. There may never be another opportunity."

"I must think on this, my daughter."

Would she deny me this chance? the girl wondered.

She left Nemesis and Evander's things neatly folded on the table, then taking up her own laundry she took Evander to the healer's hall with her. He was too young to make his entry into the hall a problem. The other girls welcomed them both and Dasay asked to be released from her lessons until Nemesis was free to take back over the duties of motherhood.

Melay wasn't pleased, but she agreed. The Dea put away her own clothing then took Evander to watch the young apprentices who hoped someday to be the hunters of the village. The demigod worked with the boys, as did the hunter. Sira sat on the grass nearby watching them.

The Dea asked permission to join her on the grass and she gave it readily. Evander went closer to the boys, then finding a place where he wouldn't interfere with their lessons he sat on the grass to watch them.

Sira smiled at the Dea. "Thank you for watching Evander so that Nemesis could be with Ares."

"You read my mind, my sister. So he did wish to speak with her about the healing. He has decided to try and become a god once more then?"

"Now you read my mind."

Both girls smiled at each other then the Dea turned her attention to the scene before her. Sira could guess what she was looking at. Sensing the eyes of both girls on him he looked up to smile at them. Sira almost flinched at the blast of emotions she felt from the girl beside her.

The demigod came to squat on his heals beside the girls. "It's a lovely day."

Sira nodded, waiting for Dasay to speak. When she didn't the empath smiled to herself. "Yes, it is quite lovely. Watching you and Iolaus makes it all the more lovely."

"Flattery. I like that from my women."

Sira laughed. "You would. Men always do. It is an ego thing."

"It's just that we know we're worthy of your adulation." The healer shoved him and he sat back on the grass.

"First you tell me I'm lovely, then you get rough with me. Are you flirting with me, little empath?"

"You wish. Why do you not go play with the other little boys?"

"It's much more pleasant here with you girls." He looked directly at the Dea. "Much more pleasant."

The girl blushed. "You do not hate me for what happened last night?" her mind touched his.

"No. I was a willing party to last night's encounter." The girl's blush deepened. "When can I see you again?"

The girl's heart soared. "I am not sure. We must be careful."

"Then you better not look at me the way you are now, or the whole village will know how we feel about each other."

The girl looked sheepish and the big man laughed. The empath knew that her more than brother had been communicating with the Dea and had discretely closed her mind to their conversation.

Dasay tried to take on a look of pleasant interest in her surroundings but failed miserably. "You are really all right with what happened between us?"

"Yes, but even if I wasn't I'd have very little hope of doing anything about it. I can't seem to resist your charms."

"I will try and make it soon. I must be careful. I will touch your mind with mine when it looks as if I can get away."

"Then I'll keep my mind open to you."

"We will be together in the healing."

"I look forward to it."

Dasay stayed at the hut with the others, keeping her promise to watch over Evander. She admitted she was in no real hurry to return to the healer's hall. There was an easy, friendly feeling she got from being around the empath, the hunter, and the demigod that she hadn't known before.

She stayed in the kitchen to help the chosen one prepare a meal while the men kept Evander entertained outside in the dwindling, softened light of the approaching evening.

With the empath, the Dea seemed to lose some of her reserve, and Sira found she had a quick wit and a lively sense of humor.

"Hercus and some of the other boys tell me you are very good at archery."

Sira looked up from the melon she was cutting. "I guess I made quite a stir with that, did I not?"

"So it is true that you know of these things?"

"Yes. Is that really so surprising?"

"Yes. For a healer it is."

"Why? There is nothing wrong with wishing to know how to defend one's self."

"You have practiced in archery?"

"Yes, and I hope to keep on practicing. I have also learned to use my hands to defend myself and strengthened my abilities with the staff."

"Why?"

Sira laughed. "Because I like doing so. There is a certain sense of invincibility that comes with knowing you have these kinds of skills."

"Could that not be dangerous?"

"Yes, I suppose it could be if one were to take these feelings too far. It must also be tempered with wisdom and caution."

"I wonder still if this is a safe course for one of the earth's people?"

"I know. It does go against our training. But it did not always. Our people used to be warriors."

"And where did that get us? We could not hope to defend ourselves against the mass of humanity that came to our shores ready to hate us on sight. Ready to kill us for the simple pleasure of doing so."

"You have been taught well, my sister. You are right, we could not hope to force these people from this corner of the earth. We could never win as the aggressors against them. But we could learn to use our minds and our skills to defend ourselves while we do our best to establish friendly relations with them. Hiding out in the mountains has done little to preserve our race. One thing it has done is to allow the humans' fear of us to lessen. There are not so many that remember us now. Now is the time to use this to our advantage. Only through association will we ever be able to set the prejudice aside. Most of the fear on our part and on the part of the humans comes from ignorance."

"But if we mingle with them freely we will lose our heritage."

"Yes, some loss of heritage is inevitable. Still, there has been much loss of this, anyway. The breaking up of our people into individual clans made the deterioration of our original culture just as inevitable. Now the only way to preserve what remains is to find a way to be accepted in the outside world where we can continue to practice our ways without the threat of persecution."

"Is that really possible?"

"So far, I have found it to be. But then I have the protection of my family." Sira smiled at the girl. "I sense your thoughts, and days ago I had the same doubts. Yes, I have changed. But rather than diminishing my earthly association, it has enhanced it. Some of my ideas and beliefs may differ from yours, but the earth burns strong inside of me. I serve the earth with my heart and my soul. What more can our people hope for, now that the land is no longer ours alone?"

"It never really was ours alone. Were there not other races here with us in the time before the remembered time?"

"Yes, but the yosemin nation was the strongest. That is no longer true. The earth people's slow gestation period has contributed to this, as has interbreeding among ourselves within individual village units. The diseases and illnesses of the outside world have also taken their toll."

"Are you advocating the breaking up of the clans and the scattering of our people among the humans?"

"On the contrary. I think the individual clans and villages should band together. But they must also allow association with the humans we share this part of the world with."

"Still, to learn ways of harming others seems an extreme measure for any earth's child, and especially for a healer."

"I suppose you could look at it as learning ways to hurt others, or you could see the bigger picture and realize for us to survive we can no longer stand around like sheep ready for the slaughter. I do not suggest that we take up arms in the hope of killing as many as we can, but I will be damned if I will sit idly by and allow an aggressor to harm myself or those I love. If it means hurting someone to survive or to protect my family, then so be it. I have been given skills to defend myself. And by the earthly god I intend to use them."

Dasay smiled. "I did not mean to anger you, my sister."

"Yes, you did. Your argument had its desired effect. Now you have not only felt my reasons for learning to defend myself and those around me, but heard them out loud as well."

The Dea laughed. "Yes, and I begin to see your point. I wish I were free to pursue these same skills."

"Yes, my sister, that would be good. It would do much to heal your village."

"You think my village needs healing?"

"Yes. I sense a resistance to the earth here. Perhaps it is just the way of our people now. It was not so in my village, but we were very isolated." Sira smiled at the dark haired girl. "Now I have angered you."

"I wonder if you are judging the village fairly."

"Perhaps not. I have not had an opportunity to get to know the people here. It was presumptuous of me to make such a snap judgment. Forgive me."

The healer smiled at her. "There is nothing to forgive. I sense you meant no disrespect. I guess I am just quick to defend those of my village."

"An admirable trait, my sister. Your sense of loyalty does you credit."

The Dea stayed to eat with them. It was good to be near the demigod. He was affectionate when he was alone with her and she longed to take him in her arms. She wanted again to feel his lips on hers. As the hour grew later and still Ares and Nemesis did not return, Dasay grew concerned. Sira assured them all that there was no need to worry about the couple, but Dasay knew she needed to get back to the healer's hall.

"Do not worry, my sister," the empath reassured her. "I will take over the duty of watching the little demigod. Return to the hall with a clear conscience."

"I promised Nemesis I would care for him."

"And so you have. Now you are delivering him into safe keeping. Nemesis will understand that you have duties."

Hercules rose. "Come on, I'll walk you back."

She knew she should refuse his offer in the interest of keeping their feelings for each other a secret, but she couldn't resist the chance to be with him. "All right."

Iolaus watched them make their way across the clearing. "Boy, they've both got it bad, haven't they?"

Sira smiled. "Yes."

He turned to the healer. "I'm glad for them."

"Yes."

"I'm sorry, Sira."

"No, my soul. I feel no jealousy. I have long wanted him to find someone to fill his heart and his bed. I am overjoyed that he has found this with a child of the earth. It makes things much easier. Dasay can accept his tie with me and I can accept her tie to him. It is a perfect solution to the problem of our brother's love life."

"He won't give you up, Sira. His loyalties and his loves reach far too deeply."

"I know. This is why I have no need to be jealous. Neither he nor I are free to be together. That part of my soul belongs to another." She smiled at him.

"Have you felt that our tie has deepened over the years rather than diminished?"

"Yes, my love, I, too, have felt it. It is the way of the soul tie of mate." He reached for her hand as she reached for his.

Hercules and Dasay reached the healer's hall. The Dea stopped just outside the door. "I would invite you in but you would not be allowed to enter."

"Because I'm a man?"

"More because you are not of clan and therefore thought of as an outsider. It would be a serious breech of ethics to even ask permission for you to enter." He gave her a serious frown. "I am sorry, Hercules. I do not mean to offend. In truth, having you in the village at all is a concession. It is only because of your tie to Thysis and Sira that you are allowed to stay here at all."

"Does that mean all of us?"

"Nemesis and Evander are protected under the clan banner, therefore they may stay. Iolaus has taken the vow of clan, therefore he is not considered an outsider."

"He has? I wasn't aware of this. So it's just Ares and myself who are intruders."

"I did not mean that, really. As I have said, as Thysis' chosen son and the empath's chosen brother you are accepted. Still, without clan protection or clan status you might well be denied entry into the village if you were to come here alone."

"This clan thing is very important to your people, isn't it?"

"Yes, it is of the family and the soul's tie. It is a sacred trust."

"So if I should wish to visit here again I must come with Sira or claim clan protection?"

"Or take the vow of clan, yes. Now, forgive me for being rude, but I really must go."

He touched her mind with his. "I'll miss you."

"And I will miss you also."

The former executioner of the gods lay cradled in the dark warrior's arms. Ares had sensed from Sira that Evander was well and passed the message on to Nemesis.

"I guess I should feel guilty that I'm not watching him. But I don't. This may be our last chance to be together at least for a time." She raised up to try and see his face in the dark. "How soon will your return to godhood be?"

"That's something else I needed to talk to you about. Sira seems to feel she can heal me and hasten the return of my powers."

The girl was silent for a moment. "You've agreed to do this?"

"Yes. Not so much because I'm impatient to leave you or Evander, or this life behind, but because Sira and I both fear what might happen if Discord should find out how to use my sword to her advantage." The girl sighed. "Don't you see, Nemesis? If she learns how to channel her godly powers she'll be a real threat to you and our son." Still Nemesis said nothing. "I can't get the image of the boy from the village out of my mind any more than Sira can. He died in my arms, Nemesis. I felt the life drain from him. I can't let that happen to Evander."

"I'll be near you in the healing, then."

He pulled her back to him to take her lips with his. Her lips parted to receive his tongue and he moaned with desire.

"Do you think Sira will mind watching Evander for the night?" the girl asked. "I just don't want to give you up yet."

"I'm sure it'll be all right. He's in good hands."

The girl's hand slid down his chest, his abdomen and lower. "Good, because I have plans."

It was morning before the lovers returned from the forest. Sira sensed their return and went to the door of the hut to watch them walking across the clearing. The dark warrior had his arm around the girl. Her head rested on his shoulder.

Sira was a little apprehensive of her reception from the former goddess. After all, she was soon to take her lover from her.

She need not have worried. When they reached the hut Nemesis hugged her. "Thank you for restoring my shattered heart. You truly are a healer." Sira searched her eyes. "I may not be telepathic but I know what you're thinking." She turned to take the former god's hand. "At least I have him for the moment, and maybe in the future. Before, when my heart was closed to him there was pain and anger. I felt guilty for my part in making a child. Now I know I did it out of love."

"I am glad, my sister. You have received the earth into your heart and soul. You are yosemin."

The former executioner wiped a tear from her cheek. "You'll never know what hearing that means to me."

Sira looked to her brother of the soul and he reached for her hand. "I want the morning and afternoon with Evander. Then I'll be ready."

She nodded. "There is food ready and hot water to bathe with. Evander is at the meadow with Hercus and Hercules. The hut is yours."

"Thank you, my sister."

Nemesis gave the dark one a leering look. "I'll wash your back if you'll wash mine?"

He raised an eyebrow. "Best offer I've had all morning."

Sira chuckled at their foolishness. Taking up a basket of mending she headed toward the meadow. Iolaus had gone with two men of the village to hunt. She felt at loose ends.

Before she had crossed the clearing she heard her name called and turned to see the Dea running toward her. Tears streamed down the girl's face.

"What is it, Dasay?" She tried to touch the girl's mind to find the source of the girl's emotion. She feared the thing between her and Hercules might have been found out. "Dasay. What has you so upset?"

"Melay has just told me I will not be allowed to be a part of the healing of Ares."

"Why?"

"She says that it is too dangerous and that I am too inexperienced."

"How are you to gain experience if you are not allowed to be in a healing?"

"I so wanted this chance to learn from you."

"I will talk to the elders. Does Melay know you are here?"

"No. She has forbidden me to leave the healer's hall at all today."

"Then return there now. I will speak with Thysis first, then we will see what can be done."

The healer kissed her cheek then hurried back to the hall of healers. With a determined step the empath made her way to her chosen father's hut. He sat at the outdoor table writing on a thin leather scroll. He looked up to greet the one he called daughter.

He could see and feel that she was angry. "Have a seat, my daughter."

"I am too angry."

"I can sense that. Do you wish to discuss it?"

"They have denied Dasay the opportunity to assist in the healing of Ares."

"They, as in whom?'

"I do not know for sure, but one would assume the council."

"The council, or Fahr and Melay? Bring your anger under control and we will go together to speak with them. We can at least try to convince them their judgment is poor."

"I say they are being damn fools."

"Yes, and you would tell them so if we seek them out before you are calmer."

"They treat healers as if they are some precious possession that must be kept wrapped in velvet to protect it."

"You were raised thus."

"Pretty much, and it was just as stupid then as it is now. My ability to heal and to be one with the earth has grown since leaving such restraints behind."

"Yes, and this may be what frightens them."

"Why would they want to limit the power of their healers?"

"Because there are so few left."

"But to hold them back defeats the whole purpose of having a healer in your village to begin with."

"Yes. I have tried to persuade them that the reason their strength of mind is dwindling is because they have closed it to the earth around them. I fear my concerns fall on deaf ears."

The nature child offered a hand to her father of the soul. "Come, my father. It is time."

"Try to behave yourself, empath."

"I make no promises."

"I was afraid of that." He tried to hide his smile but failed.

A young apprentice came to the suede covered door at their call. He bowed to them both then waited for them to address him.

Thysis, as a member of the council had no need to ask permission to enter, but out of respect to tradition Sira would be expected to.

"In the name of the earth, I, Sira, of the clan of the wolf and the lion and my father, Thysis request an audience with the council elders."

The young apprentice inclined his head. "In the name of the earth, you may enter." He motioned them to the first row of benches that faced the elder's platform near the rear of the long wide room then left them to go for the village leader.

Along both walls of the council hall was a wide aisle where the senior apprentices would stand should the council call for a gathering of the people. To the left of the platform that seemed to draw one's attention were the shelves and tables that held the village's leather and suede books. It was here the village's history was kept. Here that the young apprentices copied the history as told to them and as read in the books.

To the right of the platform on a raised dais sat the book of clan Thysis had returned to the earth's people after Sira had recovered it from the old temple in the Neberous forest. The book still remained closed, its secrets still hidden behind the heavy leather cover sealed with a metal hasp. Whether Strabiss had opened the book then resealed it was unknown, but when the earth's chosen one had found it, it was sealed.

Would she be the one to open the book? If she did, would she sense her ancestors from the time before the remembered time who had painstakingly recorded their history and the forming of the original twelve clans in an effort to set to some kind of permanency the wisdom of the earth's people?

Fahr and Melay entered the hall from behind the council platform and stood near it. Thysis and Sira approached them. The empath kept her eyes lowered as was expected of her. She bowed to them both, still not raising her eyes to meet their gaze. "Honored Father and Mother."

"What is it you wish, empath?" Fahr's words were spoken in a noncommittal tone.

"I have been informed of your objection to the Dea assisting in the healing of my soul's brother. May I ask why?"

Fahr and Melay exchanged looks. "Did the Dea tell you this?" There was no friendliness in the old woman's voice.

"Does it matter how I have come to know this? I can sense that it is the truth. I ask again, why have you made the objection?"

"We fear the girl may be in danger from such an undertaking. She is young and inexperienced. As the Dea of the village she is our strongest healer and valued as such. We would not wish to risk harm coming to her."

"You wound me," Sira whispered for effect. "You think so little of me and my abilities that you believe I would allow her to be harmed?"

Melay sighed in annoyance. "We have no wish to slight you, my daughter. Would you answer a question honestly for me?"

Sira raised her eyes to meet those of the elder. "Should I choose to honor your question the answer I give would be an honest one." There was a bite to the empath's voice.

Melay chose to ignore it. "Did you tell Dasay and the other apprentice healers that they should not limit their emotions in a healing?"

"Yes, I told them this." Sira knew full well it was the healing mother who taught them differently. "Whoever told them otherwise was very foolish. The ability to heal lies in the depth of compassion and love the healer can bring to the using of the earth's powers. To limit this is to limit the healing."

Now Melay was impatient. "What of the danger to the healer? What of the danger of attachment?"

"It is the earth's will for the healer to sacrifice herself. A healer is granted the earth's favor to do her bidding. Her life must be given to others if she hopes to retain the earth's favor. We are led by the earth to do what must be done for the individual or for the greater good of the greater number. It was always thus in the time before the remembered time, and still so now. Surely you have not lost sight of this?'

Thysis laid a hand on the empath's arm to calm her and she took a deep breath. "Mother, I sense that you were once a healer. Surely you of all wise elders should know that limits are the real danger in a healing."

"I am still a healer. How dare you infer otherwise."

"I am sorry, Mother. I meant no disrespect." Sira paused. "Your shallow depth of feeling and closed heart prevented me from sensing your gifts."

Melay turned red with anger. "You are insolent and disrespectful, empath."

Sira sighed. "Perhaps I am. Still, for you to question my healing abilities is the greatest of insults. Your Dea could learn much about the true meaning of the gifts the earth has granted her and about healing by assisting in this healing."

"Dasay shall not assist you."

Sira narrowed her eyes at the elder. "The earth is dead inside you, my mother. I am sorry you have lost your way. If you would allow me I could heal you and help you to once again find the earth." The nature child's voice was filled with compassion.

There was shock and disbelief plainly written on the old woman's face. What Sira had said was the deepest of insults, but even Melay had felt the sincerity in the girl's offer of assistance.

"Open your heart, honored mother. Let it fill with the love I sense behind your mind barriers." Sira stepped forward to place a hand on the old one's arm. The skin was thin and brittle like the woman herself.

Fahr made a move to stop the empath and Thysis put a restraining hand on his arm. "She knows what she is doing."

Fahr jerked his arm away but made no further move to stop the girl. He watched as a glow of pale blue light surrounded the empath and the healing elder. He could feel the energy in the air around him. He was shocked that anyone could call upon the powers of the earth so quickly. How had she gained such strength without meditation?

Sira closed her eyes as she sent her mind to the old woman. She let her love and compassion build as she sent the earth's powers to claim the lost soul of one of its own.

She could sense loneliness and resentment at the forced manipulation of her spirit the elders of the village had bombarded her with. So she had not liked the restraints put on young healers either. Behind the bitterness that now possessed the old one Sira sensed humor and a depth of love one might expect to find in a strong minded healer.

"Open your heart," Sira chanted. "Let the compassion build. Let it guide you and wash away the years of pain and loneliness that have eaten away at your soul and at the tie you have with the earth."

Tears glistened in the faded eyes of the old one. "I am sorry you have been so alone, my mother," Sira continued. "I am sorry I was so rude. I was very wrong. You are indeed a healer. I lost sight of my way and forgot to look beyond your pain to see the real you. I did not at first see your need, and I am sorry. Forgive me."

Despair, resentment, loneliness. They all seemed to swirl around the elder, smothering her heart and soul and shrouding her goodness in obscurity. "Let it go now, my mother. Let your own healer's heart heal you with the power of the earth that is so strong beneath your pain. Open your heart, my mother."

With a rush that rocked the empath and the elder, the barriers the old one had so carefully erected over the years to shield her unhappiness fell away. Sira could sense them peeling away in layer after layer of pain. Melay's deep resentment of living a life alone and apart from others flooded over the empath. The old one's sadness at never having found a mate or never having produced offspring tore at Sira's heart.

The empath sensed the old one's resentment that the gifts she'd been given from the earth had never been allowed to reach their full potential, and that because the earth had chosen her for healing she'd been forced to sacrifice her own happiness.

"Do not do to these young girls what superstition and fear have done to you. Open your heart to the earth, my mother. Feel her surging through you to guide you in this. Give the Dea her chance to learn and grow in the ways of the earth."

The old one leaned on the girl for support and she gave it willingly. "I have been such a fool." The words were whispered. "You are right, my daughter. I had lost sight of the earth. Thank you for bringing it back to me."

"I am sorry, my mother, for being disrespectful. You deserve much better."

"I did not, but perhaps now I will again. The Dea needs your help. She is strong of mind, but she has not had the opportunity to use her strength and has no idea of her potential. You must go slowly with her and not frighten her."

"I will, my mother."

"Such strength I feel from you, empath. You truly are the earth's chosen one. Never before in the remembered time could such power be harnessed. Your coming is said to be foretold in the book of clan. We must open the book and search out its wisdom."

"Yes, the people need this now more than ever."

The old one patted the girl's cheek then stood on her feet, her back straight as she turned to Fahr. "I rescind my objection to the Dea being a part of the healing." She turned back to the empath. "The healing shelter will be made ready for you, my dear."

"Thank you, my mother. Will you also help in the healing? Your strength would lend much."

"I just may do so. But first there is someone I wish to visit. He is alone again, now that his mate has gone to the earth. There was a time I found pleasure in his company, and he in mine."

Sira gave the elder a warm and knowing smile. "The earth is with you."

"Yes, thanks to you I believe it is."

The three of them watched as the elder made her way behind the council platform and to the door to the chambers behind that would take her to the back door and the way out.

What Sira had done in confronting an elder and in touching her without first asking permission to do so was a serious breech of conduct. Thysis knew that she could be asked to leave the village if Melay wished to pursue it. He was sure the healing elder would not, but Fahr might. Thysis wasn't sure how the other council members or the other villagers might react to the charges the village leader might bring against Sira. He was fully prepared to defend his chosen daughter should it become necessary.

Fahr waited until the healing elder was beyond ear shot then turned on the empath. "You were very disrespectful, empath."

Sira met his gaze. "I have apologized for that. You are right that I was disrespectful. Unfortunately, harshness may be the only way to reach some people. It is also sometimes necessary to speak one's mind when one witnesses a grave injustice."

"You have been in the outside world too long. It has made you bold beyond your years and station."

"Perhaps you are right, my father." There was no subjugation in the healer's tone.

"You may be able to manipulate an old woman's mind, but your tricks will not work on me. Your tone is an insult to all that is yosemin and they do you no credit."

"Being yosemin means being of the earth. The word yosemin means those who worship the earth." She gave him a serious look. "If you would let me I can help you find the earth once more."

"I have no need of your assistance. It is not I who has insulted the teachings of the earth."

"Teachings of the earth, or narrow minded, superstitious people?"

"Do you realize that I could bring you before the council on charges of insubordination and breech of conduct?"

"I am fully aware of that. You seem to think that this is a threat. It is not. I would show any who deserve it my full respect. Remember, Fahr, I can read your mind far better than you can read mine. Your thoughts betray you. I say again, I can help you find the earth." Now her voice softened. "I would like to help you. I know it is not easy living without the strong pull of the earth. You have not lost it; only buried it as Melay had."

"I say again, you have been in the outside world too long. Learn your place, empath."

"You are right. I cannot force you to accept my help. For that I am truly sorry. Your mind is very strong. The earth only waits to surge through you."

The village leader turned toward Thysis. "You should teach your chosen daughter some manners, my friend."

"She is bold, but she has earned the privilege. She is the earth's chosen one. No one else can claim her place as the true leader of the yosemin people. Besides this, before her village was wiped out by the evil sorceress, she, too, was an elder. Therefore she has elder standing even now. She is the last of the empaths, and she can trace her lineage to the original clan of our nation." The old one shrugged.

Fahr addressed the empath once more. "You may have the Dea with you in the healing on one condition."

"Which is?"

"Should harm come to her you will take her place as the village's hope."

"I would think that you would be glad to be rid of me."

"No, empath. You may think I have lost the earth but you are mistaken. My interest has always been for the betterment of the village and of the earth's people as a whole. Your strength of mind would add much to the village, and living here might bring back the humility you have lost in your unsheltered life among humans."

Sira narrowed her eyes at the man before her. "Very well. I agree to your terms. I will take the Dea's place should she be harmed in any way by the healing. But remember this, my father. Should this come to pass it may well be you who will learn humility to me and to the earth."

"I accept your challenge, empath. In fact, I find myself looking forward to the prospect of butting heads with you again."

"You and the god I call brother might get along well."

He inclined his head, then with a nod to Thysis he turned to leave them standing in the hall as he also disappeared behind the platform.

Thysis turned to the empath. "You enjoy living on the edge, my daughter."

"I am sorry, my father. It is by your grace that we are allowed here at all. I should not have been so rude to the people of your village and of the village that has so welcomed my son."

He linked his arm through hers to lead her toward the main entrance to the council hall. "It is not really my village, although I have found friendship and even companionship here. I stay more for Hercus' sake than my own. Sometimes living and experiencing a way of life is much the better teacher than all the books and tales in the world. Hercus has grown and matured far beyond his years, and sometimes I find it hard to keep up with his active and strong thoughts. He is male and therefore not an empath, and yet his powers are akin to those once found in the earth's daughters who possessed the ability to bring another's pain and suffering to themselves."

"You truly believe he possesses such powers of the earth?"

"Yes, my daughter, I truly believe it. You have begot a child to rival your own earthly gifts."

"Then perhaps I am indeed the hope of the future, or more precisely, Hercus is."

"I believe the earth has something in mind for my grandson. I felt compelled to bring him here and I do believe it has done him good. Still, I would not wish for you to compromise your feelings or your sense of the earth to appease the pigheaded, narrow minded fools who hold a place of power here for the sole purpose of insuring your son's continued welcome."

Sira smiled at the man she called father. "Fahr got in a few good jabs of his own."

"Oh yes, he can be clever, and he believes he is doing the right thing for his people. Still, more lives have been lost to this kind of unbending assurance in one's own righteousness than to war or famine. There can be no growth or enlightenment in a mind that is closed."

The hunter returned from his hunting trip to leave a large portion of venison at the doorstep to the healer's hall and at the former executioner's hut. A woman passing saw the former goddess' look of apprehension and offered to show the girl how to make a start at extracting the meat for use. Nemesis found conversation easy with the woman, and when the work was done offered half the meat to her new friend.

"There is only myself and my mate now. We would not need so much. But a bit of fresh venison would be welcome."

"Then take as much as you'd like, and welcome."

Evander, playing on the grass beside the hut under the watchful eye of his father, used his godly powers to lift a log and bring it to him. Nemesis gave the woman who'd offered her help and friendship an apprehensive look.

The woman laughed. "Do not worry, little mother. When your son uses his gifts the earth shines around him. He may use the earth's gifts in different ways than we are used to, but that the power comes from the earth cannot be denied." Nemesis looked surprised. "Yes, I know the powers came to your son from his godly father. Still, he has opened his heart to the earth and she has seen fit to grace him with her benevolence. His strong mind adds much to our little hamlet."

"Your words and acceptance of my son and of me makes me feel warm and comforted."

"It is the earth, my friend."

"Would you and your mate share a meal with me and my son soon?"

"We would be honored."

"I wish it could be now, but soon my mate must meet with the empath for the healing. I will want to be with him in this."

"When the healing is over and your man must return to his duties in the outside world we will work together, you and I, to prepare a meal."

"Thank you for understanding."

"Do not be afraid to come to me. I will be there should the loneliness become too much."

"Thank you."

"It is not only for you that I say this. I, too, get lonely. My daughter has taken a mate in the outside world and I do not see much of her. Malleous has his work to keep him busy, but there are times when I feel the hours of the day weighing heavily upon me."

"My door will always be open to you, my friend."

"I could help with the care of Evander while you are with your mate in the healing."

"You wouldn't mind?"

"I would welcome the opportunity."

Nemesis searched the woman's eyes as tears formed in her own. "Thank you, Clea."

Evander laughed at something his father did. "He is such a darling little boy," the woman stated. "He looks so much like his father. The same dark hair and chiseled features even on his baby's face. You are a very lucky woman."

Nemesis turned to watch father and son. "Yes, I am, indeed."

The golden one found the demigod at the river when he went to wash away the soil of the hunt. The big man sat on a large rock looking out over the river, his mind lost in thought. Knowing better than to startle his quick reacting friend Iolaus sent his mind to touch that of the man he called brother.

Hercules looked around and the hunter came forward. "Everything all right, Herc?" The half god only nodded. "Want to talk about it?"

"No."

Not in the least nonplused by the single word answer, Iolaus went right on. "This wouldn't have anything to do with a certain brown haired, brown eyed yosemin healer, would it?" The demigod sighed. "She's a beauty," the hunter coaxed. Hercules sighed again. "Really sweet too."

"It's just that� Well..."

"You don't have to explain."

"I� Then Sira�"

"I know, my friend."

"Damn it, Iolaus. I love your wife. There, I've said it. I love her. I would never presume on these feelings and she would never� Well, you know. It's not that we're waiting for you to� That is�" His words trailed off."

The golden hunter of the forest laughed. "I know you love her, Herc. I know she loves you. I can sense your soul's tie. It's all right. I told you a long time ago, I'm glad. I don't care if you two end up in bed together. It would take nothing from me. The love Sira and I have is apart and separate from the love you share with her. Our love is timeless and boundless."

"But now I have these feelings for Dasay."

"Yeah?"

"Well, damn it, no matter how Sira tries to rationalize it I've betrayed them both."

"Is it wrong for Sira to love me, you, and Ares?"

"No. She has very different loves for all of us."

"But it's not okay for you to have two different loves at the same time?"

"What about the physical side of this? Dasay and I� Well, you know."

"There's nothing wrong in that."

"I can't marry her, Iolaus. Not when I feel like I do for Sira."

"So you plan to wait for Sira, right? I mean you're not going to bump me off in the middle of the night so you can have her, are you?"

"Don't be silly. I hope you're around for a very long time. For Sira's sake and for mine. I'm content to wait for a chance for her and I to be together."

"So in the meantime you love another girl and find pleasure in being with her in a physical relationship. That's not wrong. There are many different kinds of love. When you fell in love with Serena it didn't change the way you felt about Deianeira. The love you have for Sira doesn't change the way you feel about either Deianeira or Serena. Loving Dasay won't change the way you feel about Sira."

"We're talking about openly living with a woman I can't marry. You don't see anything wrong in that?"

"I know you, my friend. This will never go any further if you don't want it to. And for you to want it to you would have to make some kind of commitment to this girl. Does she know how you feel about Sira?"

"Yes."

"And?"

"She says she's okay with it. She wants to keep herself free to be with a soul's mate should she be fortunate enough to find her other half."

"So she's not free to marry you either."

"No." The big man jumped to his feet and began to pace. "I can't seem to resist her. I've told myself to walk away from it, then I find myself daydreaming about her. I promise myself I'll stop this before it goes any further, then I touch her mind and�" He sighed, not sure how to put his thoughts into words.

"You feel the love between you and you're lost."

"That's about the size of it. We can't even acknowledge our feelings because the council would never agree to her seeing an outsider. She owes the village her loyalty as its Dea, so she won't leave here and I could never ask her to."

"So? You wouldn't have to remain an outsider. The yosemin have this thing they call promise. It's kind of like being engaged. You promise not to spew your seed all over town and to be loyal to the one you take into 'promise', but you're not really mated. It leaves you both free to go to your soul's mate should they come along."

"People who are engaged aren't supposed to sleep together."

Iolaus smiled despite himself. "Not in our culture, but the yosemin see things differently. They know how the touching of minds and souls can lead to a physical relationship."

"So what if I leave her with child? If I'm anything like my father I'll have her pregnant every year."

The golden one laughed. "The yosemin women only have the time of gestation twice a year. Still, if you should father a child you can then take the vow of mate and the child would be legitimate."

"Not in our culture. I've felt the sting of illegitimacy. I wouldn't want to do that to a child."

"You've got to stop thinking human culture and start seeing this as a yosemin."

"Okay, so we get married and have this legitimate kid. Then along comes Mister Right to steal Dasay's heart and she's not free to pursue her true love."

"You're thinking human culture again. There is a ceremony of release that would allow both of you to sever your tie of mate should one or the other of you find the true soul's mate. It only works in that case so don't get the idea you can marry them and leave them."

The half god picked up a stone to toss it across the placid pool of the river that ran near the village and the hunter continued. "The real problem in all of this is your heart. I know how deeply your emotions run. The one who stands to really be hurt by this is you. If things go this far then Dasay finds her soul's mate you'll do the noble thing and release her. But noble or not, it will tear you apart."

"She'd feel the loss too."

"Of course, and there would be the child to consider. But she would have her mate and you'd be left waiting alone for your soul's mate to be free to come to you." The half god turned sharply to search his friend's eyes. "It's all right, Herc. I really do understand and I really don't mind. I just wouldn't want to see you hurting. You've had enough loneliness in your life."

"I would never again really be lonely. Not with the tie of the soul between the three of us."

"So you must worry about what might happen to Dasay if you are suddenly given the chance to be with your soul's mate and Dasay still hasn't found hers."

"Sira said they could share me."

The hunter laughed. "That sounds like my little yosemin. She would too, and never feel slighted. How about Dasay? Would she share?"

"She said she didn't care that I love Sira."

"But you don't believe her." His friend shrugged. "You're thinking like a human again, big guy."

"Why does it always have to be complicated?"

"I think that's your lot in life, my friend."

"I really do have feelings for her."

"Now you're wondering how this could have happened so soon."

"You've been hanging around Sira too long. You read my mind as well as she does."

"No mind reading needed. Just simple logic. This thing between you and Dasay happened so fast because the earth made it happen. Call it mind control, or witchcraft if you want, but the earth is a part of this, or I'm a two headed viper." The hunter scratched at his chin. "I say follow the earth and your heart and go with it."

"Her mind on mine reminds me of Sira."

"And you think this is unfair to the Dea?"

"Yeah."

"Does she?"

"She says not."

"Maybe the earth sent you a yosemin girl so you would feel the mind's touch. It kind of becomes a part of you."

"I know. I'll never forget the bereavement I felt at its loss when Sira closed her mind in her grief over your supposed death."

"I remember how it hurt when she was kidnapped by Demos and the blow to her head made it impossible for her to touch my mind."

Hercules sighed. "I don't ever want to give that up, my friend."

"I know. Now you'll have a constant reminder of this through Dasay."

"After the healing, maybe Thysis and I better have a talk. If anyone can find a way to make this okay with her people, it will be him."

"Now you're being smart."

"Damn, I want her."

The golden one chuckled. "She's a lucky girl. I haven't seen you this giddy in a long time."

"Not since Serena."

"They're a lot alike."

"You sense that too?"

"Maybe it's just the forest in them both."

"Like in Sira."

"Yes. I never look at her without seeing the forest reflected in her beauty."

"I fell so softly in love with Sira I kind of forgot this almost nauseating eating away at my stomach like I had with Xena and Serena. With Deianeira it was slower and not so wrenching, either."

"Which is better?"

"I don't know. The deeper loves have been the slow ones."

With a thoughtful look on his face the hunter nodded.

The former god of war found the empath in the meadow sitting on the grass, her legs crossed, her mind open to the earth and the beauty her mother displayed for her pleasure.

He came to sit on the grass beside her, not wishing to disturb her. The shadows had lengthened to lend a benevolence to the deepening cobalt of the dome overhead.

The girl reached out to take the man's hand. She didn't open her eyes. Her mind touched his instead, sending him love; letting herself feel his love. Her depth of feeling for this once god ran deep and she tapped it now. The healing would depend on her ability to let the love between them flow freely and openly.

"It's time, my sister."

"Yes. Just give me this moment to draw you into my heart and soul. I will miss you, my brother."

"You won't lose me now, Sira. Our feelings for each other have grown too deeply for that to happen."

"I love you, my brother."

He rose to pull her to his feet and she melted into him, her cheek resting against his chest. She could hear his heart beating a slow even rhythm. Around him now surged an energy that spoke of his return to godhood. She could feel the warmth of him through his leather vest.

Turning her face to him he took her lips in a lover's kiss of passion. "It won't be easy waiting for you, little warrior." His arm around her, he turned toward the village, enjoying the feel of the evening breeze on his skin. "It's funny. Before loving you I never knew the mortal plain was so beautiful."

"It is the earth inside of you that makes you see it."

"You put the earth there."

"No, I only awakened it. It was always there."

They found the others at the healing shelter. Melay greeted the girl in the name of the earth. The apprentice healers lined the outside dimensions of the open sided, thatch covered shelter. Woven reed mats awaited the healer and the one to be healed. A fire lent warmth and comfort for those soon to engage in the workings of the earth.

Sira went to her knees before the healing mother. "Grace our endeavor with your love and strength, healing mother."

"Rise, my daughter, and greet the earth."

Sira sent her mind to the Dea standing slightly apart from the other girls. The chosen one could sense her nervousness and sent her mind to reassure her.

Hercules and Iolaus waited for her, and to the side stood Nemesis. "Seeing you all here to grace the healing gives me strength. Thank you all."

Melay offered her hand to lead the empath to the mats on the straw covered soil beneath the sheltered roof. Ares went to Nemesis to pull her into his arms. He clung to her for a moment then drew back to wipe the tears from her cheek.

Sira knelt on the mats and the dark one came to sit beside her. "Rest, my brother."

He laid down and the Dea put a rolled up mat at his head to cushion it and make him comfortable. Moving to his side she placed her hands on his chest as the empath took a place at his head. Her fingers at his temples sent a tingle through him and he closed his eyes.

Within moments the empath began to sway, and the demigod took a place beside the Dea, his hands resting beside hers, their fingers touching.

"Cantos, cantos, cantos." The chosen one chanted the yosemin word for earth slowly in a soothing rhythm meant to help them all open their minds and souls to the earth. She could feel the dark warrior's tension. "Relax my brother. You are not alone in this. I will guide you and the earth will protect you. Relax and let me lead your mind." She went slowly, letting her compassion build and grow. A blue light surrounded them all, filling the shelter with an energy that tingled on the skin as it undulated and ebbed about them.

Dasay was drawn into the healing, and she did her best to lend her strength to the girl whose power was almost frightening in its intensity. The demigod could feel the mind of both girls and that of his brother. He got a sense of the dark warrior's regret at what he was leaving behind and it touched his heart. He would miss Ares more than he wished to admit even to himself.

"See the light, my soul's brother. Let it fill your mind with its healing powers. Anchor yourself to the earth. See tentacles coming from your feet and reaching into the earth. See them curling around the core to hold you fast."

The hunter moved closer. He knew the time of transfer was beginning. This was when the empath was most vulnerable. Nothing must go wrong now or she could be harmed.

"Yes, my brother. Feel the power of the earth surge through us all."

The chosen one gasped as the transferred emotions of the one she healed flowed to her. A wave of power hit her and seemed to grasp her firmly in a tight embrace. She knew a moment of fear but pushed it aside to open her mind to the taking of another's mind and soul to her, and the godly powers that had frightened her eased to allow her to continue.

The Dea was lost in the transfer, drawn into it almost against her will. Never had she felt the earth so strong. Never had she known that these things were possible. The power the empath commanded was so far removed from her own limited hold on the earth that she felt shame and insecurity flood over her. How dare she claim to be a healer? She had no right to the title. She was nothing compared to the pale beauty that seemed to use the earth with such familiar grace and ease.

Sira sent her mind to the girl to comfort her. "Your powers are still growing. You have yet to tap your full potential. Do not stop now, my sister. I need you with me."

"I never knew. How are these things possible?"

"Anything is possible with the earth, my sister. Do not withdraw. Embrace the light and the earth, and grow powerful in your own right. Then you will truly be the healer that you wish to be. Follow my lead and learn from our mother."

The empath had never felt such negative emotions in a healing. The anger and pain of a small child lost in an unforgiving world of perpetual light tore at her heart. Not sure how to combat this kind of rage she did the only thing she could. She bombarded it with love and benevolence.

The dark one fought her. What she seemed bent on warping and changing to fit her sense of normalcy was the very thing he had thrived on to survive.

Night had passed, and morning was a promise in the east before Sira halted the first healing. She felt bruised and sore from her almost continuous battle with the godly influence that surged ever stronger in the dark warrior she called brother. With a whimper of fatigue she laid down beside him and curled herself against him.

He pulled her close. "I'm sorry, Sira. I don't mean to fight you. I can't seem to help myself."

"Just hold me. Let me feel your love, and my energies will be renewed."

He kissed her hair, still damp from the perspiration her struggle had brought to her.

"Iolaus, my friend," the warrior whispered, "bring her water."

The hunter did as he was bid, helping the girl he loved to take the gift from the sky to its lover the earth. He was torn with worry for her as her weakness touched his mind through their link.

"Sira?"

"It will be well. I must sleep. When I wake I will be rested."

Hercules rose and stumbled from the healing shelter.

Thysis rose from his place beside the former god. "Dea. Take him clothing and soap. You will find him at the river."

The emotions Hercules felt during the healing were hard for him. The hate and anger that tormented the healer through her link with his brother went against all that he believed in. But even more than this, he got a sense of the reason why the hate and anger were there. To torment a child to make them evil and sinister was something he simply couldn't comprehend. For Zeus to sit idly by and allow these atrocities to be perpetrated was unforgivable, as the young god's mother, Hera had never missed an opportunity to use her own evil to shape and form her son into the monster she wanted the god of war to be.

The half god made his way to the river, and not bothering to remove his clothing he waded into the icy water, letting the current wash away the sense of abhorrence he still carried with him. The Dea came to him, fresh clothing in one hand, a blanket for drying himself in the other. The look he gave her tore at her sensitive heart and she waded into the river to join him.

Not caring who might see, he pulled her into his arms. He felt her love and comfort enfold him. His mind on hers was strong and he pulled her offering of help to him, leaning on it for support.

He turned her face up to him and took her lips. Almost instantly he was on fire with desire and her own emotions matched his. She tore her dress over her head in a mad rush to cool the raging fire of love and lust that threatened to overwhelm her.

Their lovemaking was animalistic and primitive as he took her in the deep pool of icy water then again on the riverbank, bending her over to be with her that much sooner. Their cry of release blended to form one sound.

Picking her up he carried her back to the water to help her bathe, using the soap she'd brought for him. She helped him next, letting her love flow to him in comfort as she cleaned his body. Not caring that he was naked he wrapped her in the blanket before pulling his clean clothing on over his still wet body.

Now that their immediate needs had been fulfilled he knew concern. How in Tartarus were they going to get back to the village without everyone knowing what they'd been about?

Dasay dressed in her wet things then wrapped the blanket around her once more. "I can sneak back into the healer's hall from the forest behind the healing shelter."

"Come on, then. I can feel your exhaustion."

Going carefully they found their way around the village and to the back entrance into the hall. The big man pulled her to him once more. "Once I know you're safely inside I'll head back to the river and approach the village from there."

She raised up to kiss his lips lightly. "Be safe, my lover."

"More than lover, Dasay."

"Yes, much more."

She ran silently to the back door to the hall then let herself in just as silently. He waited to see if an alarm was raised. She sent her mind to him to let him know she had made it safely to her bed. With a sigh of relief he retraced his steps and returned to the village from the river.

He made his way to the healing shelter. Nemesis brought him a mug of Tassis tea along with meat between two thick slices of bread. "Are you all right, Hercules?"

He put an arm around her. "I just need rest. How are you holding up?"

She leaned her cheek against him. "Sometimes it seems my life is so mixed up. Maybe I should have taken you up on your offer and married you."

He found a seat on a log near the fire. "I was eleven when I made that proposal."

"But I never stopped loving you."

"I never stopped loving you either."

"There were times I wished Evander was really your son."

"Me too."

"Why did I have to fall for your brother?"

"It's our dashing good looks, I guess."

"Are you sorry we got together that last time?"

"No, Nemesis. Bittersweet though it was, I've never regretted any of the times we were together."

"I haven't either." She smiled at him. "Now go and rest."

"For what it's worth, I understand why you love Ares."

"You don't hate me for that?"

"We can't always control who we fall in love with. I never thought I'd say this, but he's not all bad."

"He can be very tender and loving."

The demigod rose from the log he'd sat on to eat the meat and bread. "I believe that now."

He took a blanket, and finding a place on the other side of the empath he rolled in it. He was asleep almost at once. The former executioner built up the fire then took a seat on the log the half god had just vacated.

Hercus found her still there when he came to check if those in the healing needed anything. He could sense her fatigue and her depression. "Go rest, Aunt Nemesis. I will watch over them."

"I promised Ares I would be here for the healing."

"You will be. My mother will sleep for a time yet."

"I do need to check on Evander."

"Clea is taking good care of him. I just checked on him."

"Then maybe I will go rest." She covered a yawn. "I really am tired."

The empath woke first. Taking a moment to check on herself she was pleased to find she felt refreshed. Careful not to break the physical contact with the dark warrior she sat up.

The hunter came to her at once. "Everything all right?"

"Yes, my soul. I feel quite well."

"Want some tea?"

"After you help me with other needs."

He smiled at her. "Oh, that."

"Yes, that."

He bounded up. "Okay, I'll help."

"Did you get any sleep?"

"Actually I did. I slept from the time you halted the healing up until about an hour ago."

"You are freshly bathed."

"Yes. Would you like me to help you with that?"

"Yes, please." He gave her a lecherous look and she laughed. "There are far too many people here for you to be getting any ideas."

"Damn." She laughed at his foolishness. He was very tender and considerate of her and she realized how frightened he was of this healing.

"I will be fine, you know."

"I can't help but worry."

"I know, and I love you for it."

"Promise me you'll go slow."

"I promise."

Sira sat beside Ares now, her brown spotted feet against his side to maintain the physical touch. Her eyes were closed, her mind open. She wasn't healing him, as much as drawing upon the earth in an effort to strengthen her powers for the healing to come. Sensing his eyes on her she opened her own. Dark forest green met his earnest gaze of rich brown.

"Are you all right, my sister?"

"Yes. I heal in my sleep. I am feeling fine."

"Things didn't go too well, did they?"

"It was a struggle, but we made progress. When you are ready we will try again."

"You sure you still want to do this?"

"I am quite sure." He squirmed uncomfortably and she smiled. "We must maintain the physical touch, but Iolaus can help you and I will turn away."

He blushed. "I'll be fine."

"Do not be foolish. There is no shame in the needs of the body. Let Iolaus help you."

He gave a deep sigh and nodded. The empath turned away, keeping her hand on his shoulder.

The hunter tried to keep the smile from his face but found it impossible as he came forward to help the embarrassed warrior.

In a transfer an empath could control certain of her bodily functions as well as those of the one being healed. Since there was no physical trauma in this healing Sira hadn't done so. She preferred to keep her mind for the healing itself.

"This is damned awkward," the former god complained.

"Shall I help you, my brother?" Sira offered.

"You just keep your back turned, Sira."

She smiled. "I would not mind helping you."

"Just behave yourself, little empath."

"Iolaus, is there water heated?"

"Sure."

"Then Ares should have a bath, as well."

"Now wait one damned minute here. This is bad enough. I'm not taking any bath with you looking on."

"There is nothing to be ashamed of in the human form. Especially not yours."

"The only reason you want me to bathe is so you can get a free show."

Sira laughed. "I want you to bathe so that you will be more comfortable. If you are comfortable you will find relaxing much easier. I can scrub your back."

"Somehow I don't trust you."

"I never thought I could so easily frighten the mighty Ares."

"Yeah, well, you have this way of looking at a guy that's kind of unnerving."

The hunter laughed. "Like the kind of look she gets on her face when she's lost in the beauty of the scenery?"

"That's the one."

"Are you saying there is something wrong with having an eye for perfection?"

"Does she mean you, or me, Iolaus?"

"Both, I'd bet. She's an insatiable flirt, you know."

"Yes, I am. And I refuse to apologize for it. Now stop stalling and get to bathing before the Dea returns and you have two women watching you make your absolution." Ares moaned.

With the help of the hunter he managed to bathe. He caught the empath sneaking more than one peek but said nothing. He couldn't think of anything to say that wouldn't embarrass him more than it would her.

Hercules had awakened before Ares was through and also caught the nature child taking advantage of the former god's awkward position.

He sent his mind to her. "Behave yourself, Sira."

She smiled at him. "I could not resist."

"You never can."

She chuckled silently, her eyes dancing with a mischievous light.

Thysis and the Dea joined them in the shelter, and moments later Nemesis followed. The dark warrior gave her an encouraging look and she smiled at him.

"Rest, my brother," the empath chanted. "We must heal again before what we have gained is lost."

Ares laid down, making himself comfortable. Before the others were ready the empath began to chant. Within moments her mind was entranced and she'd brought the former god's mind with her to touch the earth. She rocked back and forth with the emotions that bombarded her.

Anger, frustration, hate. These things were painful to her sensitive mind. Tears stained her cheeks at the pain this once child god had endured. His hate and corruption seemed to eat away at her defenses, leaving her emotions raw and exposed. Still, she took more on herself.

Hercules advised caution, using his strong mind to reach her. Her mind screamed at him in anger. Ares added his own plea for caution, and reluctantly Sira eased the intensity of her pull on his mind. Time and time again she assaulted the barrier that held the godly powers she wished to release at bay.

For a time Hercus joined in the struggle to return the man to god. Melay also was there at times. Their strong minds added much to the healing and Sira was glad for their help.

The day turned warm and perspiration dripped from her chin. Her mouth and throat felt raw and dry, her tongue was swollen, and still she refused to let it go. She must succeed in the healing. Discord must not be allowed to harm another innocent person. The image of the boy she'd failed to save in her effort to help the greater number swam before her eyes. She lowered yet another barrier on her mind and mounted a fresh attack on the wall the Brossus had built to hide the godly energy Ares was born with.

When at last she built the mind barriers needed to halt the healing she was too stiff to move. Hercules helped her to lay down on the mats, making sure she didn't lose the physical contact with Ares.

Iolaus brought her water. "Here, my love. This should help."

"Get away from me, you toad." Her voice was gravely with anger.

The hunter stood in stunned silence beside the girl he loved. She not only sounded different, but her looks had changed as well. He went to his knees beside her, the mug of water spilling into the straw that carpeted the floor of the shelter.

"Are you all right, Sira?"

"I said get away from me!"

Thysis put his hand on the hunter's arm. "This will pass, my son. Let her rest and come back to her own mind, and the anger will subside."

Nemesis handed Hercules a fresh mug of water and he moved to help the empath sit up. She jerked upright to snatch the mug from his hand. She downed the water then threw the mug to crash against one of the corner poles of the shelter.

Laying back down she turned her back to Ares and made herself comfortable, one foot against the former god's leather clad leg.

Ares waited until he was sure she was sleeping, then sitting up he turned to Hercules. "I don't like what this is doing to Sira. Can we stop the healing?" The big man turned to Thysis for the answer.

"To halt the healing now could be dangerous, both to the healer and the one being healed. Still, done properly, I would say it is possible."

"Then when she wakes we must try," Ares demanded.

"Sira will not stay as you just saw her, my son. She heals in her sleep. This will pass."

Iolaus paced the confined space of the shelter. "She even looked different," he mumbled under his breath.

"Look what this is doing to him," the dark warrior insisted.

"He is the soul mate, the Anmchara of the greatest healer since before the remembered time. He has accepted this and found his peace with the earth. I have seen and felt his strength. He will do what he must. Besides that, there is another you must consider in this. Do you really believe Sira would be willing to halt the healing?" The elder looked the former god in the eyes. "If you do, you do not know her well, my soul's son."

Ares turned to his brother. "You haven't said anything. I can sense that you're as concerned about Sira as I am."

The big man took a deep breath. "I don't like this healing one damn bit. But Thysis is right; Sira will never agree to putting an end to it. And I'm not all that sure she should. Her reasons for doing this are sound. We need Discord out of her place of power and we need someone to take up the sword of the god of war. If this doesn't work, I know Sira well enough to know she'll attempt to depose Discord herself and take up the duties as the god of war until your powers return. She's seen enough of horror and death. Even ruling as a saving deliverer of love and harmony she will be exposed to war and death. It will tear her apart. How many more children can she stand to see lying in death? She's too damn sensitive. She feels too deeply each death and injury. She's strong, but there is only so much she can take before she breaks."

Sira's sleep was disturbed. She moved almost continuously, moaning and whimpering in her sleep. The former god took a firm grip on her so that in her struggle to come to terms with the emotional pain the healing brought to her she wouldn't break the physical touch. He turned to the hunter, looking for support.

"What do you say, Iolaus? This is tearing you and her apart."

The golden one shook his head. "I won't ask her to stop doing what she must. Besides that, Hercules is right. What she goes through now will only be for a short time. There's no way of telling how long she'd have to be the god of war. Then there's still the question of fighting Discord. We don't even know if she could stop her, or if she did we can't know for sure if she could be the god of war. She's powerful, sure, but it's a far different power than the gods of Olympus possess. You want your godhood back and you want your sword back. It's the best possible solution and she knows it. I say we stick this out a little longer."

The empath settled into a deeper sleep, her mind more at peace. The Dea, despite her own fatigue, moved to sit beside the woman she'd loved almost from that first touch of mind she'd sent to the empath after the boy of the raided village had died. And while she'd felt the strong tie of soul with Sira, it wasn't until she'd felt firsthand the power the empath possessed that she'd realized just how special the pale blonde beauty really was. Her admiration for her new sister grew with each passing hour. Behind it all was the longing to strengthen her own earthly powers, and instinctively she knew the empath held the key to achieving her goal.

Using what healing powers she did possess she sent her own healing to the earth's chosen one. While she wasn't an empath and couldn't bring Sira's emotional pain to herself, she could heal, and she had every intention of doing just that. And as she healed the night passed to the new day.

Feeling exhaustion in every bone she finally laid down beside the empath to fall asleep almost at once. Hercules put a blanket over her since the morning was cold.

The hunter stirred up the fire then put the rabbits his bow had provided over it on a spit. He'd slept only for a short time since his mind refused to relax. Knowing activity would help calm him he'd left the village to do what he did best.

Hercules came to sit on a log near the fire and the golden one handed him a mug of strong tea. "Thanks, Iolaus. I need this." He held up the mug to make his point.

"I needed it, myself."

"She knows what she's doing."

"I know. I still worry."

"Me too. I had no idea this thing was going to be so hard."

Iolaus nodded. "The few times I've taken an active part in the healing it was damned uncomfortable."

"I never knew Ares had been through such a rough childhood." The demigod sighed. "Who would have thought? It's hard enough to imagine the gods having a childhood at all, let alone one of abuse and neglect."

"I wonder if anyone has ever loved him, before Sira that is."

"Or if he had ever really loved anyone."

"What about Xena?"

"That's different. I know he cares for her, but I don't think he knew what love was as far as she's concerned."

The hunter turned the rabbits on their spit. "Rabbits will be done soon. You hungry?"

"Starving."

Sira woke to the buzzing of a bee that found her pale hair appealing. She didn't want to wake. She felt groggy and out of sorts. She shooed the bee aside, and making herself more comfortable on the mats she tried to return to her slumber. After a moment she gave up and sat up. The others were sleeping despite the hour and she knew there had been little sleep for any of them the night before. Looking around she found a water flask within reach and used it. She felt dirty and soiled and wanted a bath in the worst way. As if reading her thoughts the demigod raised up on one elbow to watch her.

"Sira?"

"I feel like I have been dragged through a rock quarry behind a fast moving chariot. I am hungry and tired and dirty."

He chuckled. "Are you warning me not to push you, little sister?"

"Yes."

"I could help you bathe."

"Please? I cannot stand feeling this way."

In good humor the demigod moved to oblige. Sira, not in the least ashamed to have the demigod see her unclothed allowed him to help her with her personal needs and the bath. He kept enough water to wash her hair and when she was finished with her bath he washed her hair then wrapped it in a towel on the top of her head.

"If you're feeling better I'll get you something to eat.

"I am feeling much better. Thank you so much." She kept shooting looks at the hunter.

"He's all right. He didn't sleep much last night so I convinced him to take a nap."

"And Dasay?"

"She healed you after you fell asleep."

"She did?"

"We've all been worried about you. Ares has talked about putting an end to the healing."

"No. I have to do this. The world is in danger, my brother."

"I know, Sira. Thysis, Iolaus, and I talked him out of it."

"Why would he want to end the healing?"

"Because he loves you and can't stand to see you hurt by his inner demons."

"Does he think I blame him?"

"No, he's just worried about you."

The third transfer wasn't going well. There seemed to be an even stronger barrier holding godhood away from Ares. Sira could sense the pent-up power behind the barrier but seemed powerless to break through the dam to release it. She knew if she could make a crack in the wall, the power behind it would flood through, taking the barrier with it.

She admitted she was more than a little afraid of the godly powers she could sense and knew that this fear might be part of the problem. But even more than this, she sensed her brother of the soul's own resistance to her efforts. He wanted his godhood back, and yet subconsciously he dreaded the moment when he would once and for all leave this world behind and take up the duties he'd been groomed for from his conception.

"Please, my brother, I cannot help you if you do not let me. If you truly wish to remain man and not god we can stop the healing. I do not know of any way to halt the slow recovery of your powers, however."

"No. I have regrets, but I want this. I am the god of war, and nothing will change that. I could never really be happy as anything else."

"But you fear you will not really be happy as a god now that you have lived another life?"

"I guess that's it."

"I am sorry, my brother."

She pulled back for a moment, letting her mind rest. Then with a rush she sent her power to the former god. He cried out as her earthly powers hit him.

Hercules gasped. "Sira, not too much, my sister." He rose to put his hands on her shoulder and she shoved him away.

"You may help in the healing, but that is all. I know what I am doing."

She pulled back again, building her strength. Sensing what was coming the demigod pulled the Dea away, breaking her tie in the healing.

A low sound came from the empath; an animalistic growl, growing in intensity to a scream of anger and hate. Ares moaned with pain at the hold the girl had on his mind, trying to pull away from her. She was unrelenting and only strengthened her hold on him.

The hunter had never heard her make this sound. Fear swept over him. Sira screamed a high piercing scream that hurt the golden one's ears and he moved to her. He wasn't sure what he meant to do. Somehow he must stop her before she brought real harm to herself and to Ares. He reached to touch her.

"No, Iolaus!" she screamed too late.

A flash of raw energy and blinding light hit him to throw him back across the shelter to hit a tree and land in a heap.

Thysis ran to him. The hunter lay dazed, barely breathing. The old one shook him and he drew in a great gasping breath. His heart pounded in his chest. He felt numb and tingly all over, then he cried out as his body contorted in a painful spasm. It passed and the hunter tried to sit up.

"Not yet, my son. Let the shock wear off."

Again the hunter's body was drawn up in a spasm. "Sira."

"She is all right. Let us worry about you."

Spasm after spasm contorted the hunter's body painfully. Where the blast of energy had hit him, his chest was blistered and raw with a deep burn. His muscles cramped and he cried out again.

"Are you sure Sira is all right?"

Thysis glanced over to his shoulder to watch his chosen daughter. "She appears to be, and I do believe Ares is in possession of his powers."

Sira was awash with emotions she couldn't understand. She felt power like nothing she'd known before. A wickedness crept over her and she laughed a sadistic cackle.

Ares sent his mind to her. Through their mind's link he realized she was experiencing the euphoria of being a god. She reveled in the experience of power and invincibility. She was intoxicated by it, drugged with godly powers she had no defense against.

Ares knew real concern. "Hercules. Help me. We have to reach her. We have to bring her out of this. She's possessed by the power of godhood."

The half god sent his mind to his more than sister of the soul but found it unresponsive. Sending his mind to his brother instead he let Ares use it to plead with Sira.

"Release it, my sister. This is not for you. You have the earth's power. You don't need the power of the gods."

"Go to Tartarus! I will never give this up."

"Please, Sira. Call upon the earth."

Dasay joined her plea to that of Hercules and Ares, and still the empath resisted them. Thysis helped the hunter to his feet then steadied him with an arm around him. Iolaus wasn't a big man, but Thysis was even smaller. He tried to drag the hunter forward since he was still too dazed to manage on his own. Hercus rushed to help, and together they brought the hunter to Sira.

He slumped down on the mat beside her. He sent his mind to her as he reached out to place his hand on her thigh.

As he touched her she screamed. "I have hurt you. Forgive me!" With a rush that left the sons of Zeus dizzy the girl released her hold on the godly powers of Ares and fell into the hunter's arms.

"Sira." There was anguish in the hunter voice. "Sira."

Thysis went painfully to his knees to place his hands on the girl. His mind shot out to her and he breathed a sigh of relief.

"She is all right, my son. She has released the powers of the gods and reclaimed the power of the earth. She has fallen into a deep sleep that will do much to restore her health. She is going to be all right."

Iolaus rocked her like a child as tears stained his cheeks. He'd feared she'd given her life for the protection of humanity. Now that he was calmer he realized he'd never lost the touch of her mind on his. Still, the fear he'd felt twisted his stomach painfully to join with the spasms her blast of power had left him with.

Dasay put her hands on his arm to send him healing and the demigod followed suit. He clung so tightly to the girl he loved that he feared he might hurt her, and yet he couldn't turn her loose.

Thysis also joined in the healing, as did Hercus. Slowly the muscle cramps subsided and the hunter was able to lay down, the empath cradled in his arms. Ares kept a hand on her to maintain the physical touch.

The hunter and the empath slept, but not so the god. He was anything but tired, as wave after wave of energy surged through him. He, too, found himself intoxicated by the godly powers he'd thought were lost to him forever. This was a euphoria he'd missed. Still, he knew his powers were unfocused. He couldn't be sure his immortality had also returned. There was only one way to insure this, and that was to recover his sword from Discord. I must get the sword back! his mind shouted. He started to rise and the demigod put a restraining hand on his arm.

"Not yet, Brother. You can't not break the physical touch."

"Why? Why must I be confined here?" There was a familiar bite to his question.

"Because breaking the physical contact now could reverse the healing and harm you both."

"Do you think I could lose my powers now? Don't be a fool. I know how to hold onto it now that I have it back."

"Perhaps, but I was thinking more of Sira. There's no way of knowing what this will do to her."

Ares studied his brother's face a moment then turned to watch Sira sleeping in the hunter's arms. "Very well, I'll see this through. I did promise her." He laid back down, closing his eyes. He consciously brought his breathing to an even rhythm and forced his muscles to relax. He wished he could sleep, but in that he failed.

Hercules rose to go to the fire. He stirred it up and placed another log on the coals. Nemesis was with Evander at the hut. She'd run from the shelter when Thysis made his declaration of Ares' return to godhood. The demigod realized he should go after her, but he lacked the energy. He could sense her with her son and knew she was safe. He also sensed her emotional state and was concerned. He started to rise then sat back down. He just couldn't do it yet. He was too drained. He shook the pot to see if tea remained, and satisfied there was enough he pushed the pot closer to the coals to heat.

He looked back at the mats where the two women he loved slept alongside Ares and Iolaus. Hercus still sat cross-legged beside his mother, his mind entranced in an effort to heal her.

Rising, the demigod gathered blankets and covered the sleepers. He knelt for a moment beside the Dea to gently remove a strand of dark hair from her cheek. He rubbed the hair between his thumb and first two fingers, liking the feel of it on his flesh. With a wistful sigh he placed the strand of hair back with the rest that fell in a rich dark brown cloud out behind her. He rose and returned to the fire. His back was turned to the healing apprentice so he didn't see her reach back and touch the hair he'd caressed. With a smile on her face she drifted back to sleep.

Thysis left his place on the mats, the blanket the demigod had covered him with wrapped around his shoulders and went to join his chosen son at the fire.

"What troubles you, my son?"

The big man removed the pot from the fire and poured the last of the tea evenly between two mugs then handed one to the elder before taking his seat on the log once more. "I don't know. The healing was damned uncomfortable, but�" He stopped, not sure how to put into words his sense of depression.

"I know, I will miss him also."

Hercules nodded. "Not him," the half god motioned with his head to indicate the god he thought was sleeping with the others, "but the man he was."

"Yes. You found common ground with your brother. The blood tie has always been there, but you went beyond this with the man."

"You read my mind again, Father."

"I always do."

Hercules smiled. "Then you must know about Dasay and myself."

"I know. I also feel your guilt. You are not being unfair to either of them, my son. You love two women. With the strong tie of the soul this sometimes happens. It is not something to be ashamed of."

"You know how it is with Sira and I. To love her like that, then to be with Dasay� Well, I do have feelings for her, don't get me wrong. Still, it's not the same as the feelings I have for Sira. I have enough guilt about that to sink a ship anyway, and now this."

Thysis laughed. "You have a special bond with Sira. A touching of soul that is wondrous and special. For now she is not for you. Her body is for her first soul's mate. That part of her she could not give to another as long as Iolaus is alive. Still, she loves you as much as you love her. You, too, are mates of the soul. You have made a commitment to each other, and in time you will be together. Until that time, why do you feel it is wrong to love another and to find pleasure in fulfilling your body's needs? The earth has given us pleasure in this most intimate of acts for a reason. The earth would not wish us to go without pleasure. We are given love to enhance this pleasure, and to give the act meaning and purpose."

"When I'm with Dasay I can't seem to separate the two women. I find the mind's touch stimulating because it reminds me of Sira. It's not that I'm comparing the two. It's more�" He shrugged.

"It is more that you are making love to them both at the same time."

Hercules squirmed uncomfortably on the log. "I guess that's it."

"Part of that is because they have the tie of soul as well, and part of that is because you and Sira's soul tie is so strong. Maybe you do not wish to hear this, but I fear you will always get a sense of Sira in your lovemaking with Dasay."

"And you think that's fair to Dasay?"

"She is yosemin. She understands the soul's involvement. Her feelings for you run deep enough that she wishes to be with you no matter your relationship with Sira. Just as Iolaus wishes to be with Sira even though she loves you, and Ares while loving him. Loving two women at the same time can be complicated, but it does not have to be."

"You don't think it unfair to Dasay that I can never give my heart to her completely?"

"No. You can give her love and the touch of the soul. Maybe not as a soul's mate, but still the love can be strong. She, too, waits for a soul's mate. She cannot give her heart completely to you. That does not mean there is anything wrong with sharing the love you have and enjoying the physical pleasure of that love."

The elder made himself more comfortable. "If anyone should find an unfairness about this, it should be you. You are not free to be with your soul's mate and you will always live with the possibility of losing Dasay to her Anmchara. It will take a very special person to live with the possibility of losing their lover to another.

"The joining of soul is something that happens to both, not just to one. It cannot be one sided. We all have the need to find our soul's missing half. This need is strongest in those of strong mind, which leaves healers the most vulnerable. Dasay has a better than average chance of finding her mate since her strong mind would know immediately if her mate were near. Before you go much further with your heart and soul, my son, you must acknowledge this fact and accept it. It is not that you do a disservice to the girl, or her to you. The vow of promise would help to protect her from ridicule and shame and it would be a verbal commitment between you two. It would mean you would be free to be with her in the village and outside of it. It is not really a license to have a physical relationship with the girl, although in the time before the remembered time it was designed for just that reason. Even then it was known that our numbers were dwindling. The vow of promise made it easy for those who wished, to have a relationship. And should the woman be blessed with child, the earth's people would be enriched in number. It has only been later, as human culture came to us that the stigma of illegitimacy was something to be ashamed of. It is the influence of outside cultures that has warped the original beliefs and made it seem wrong to have a child with a woman you were not married to. Still, we believe that to marry the woman will give validity to the child's birth. The major problem with this is the fact that then if one or the other of the people involved should find their soul's mate, they are no longer free to be with them. Unless of course, one or the other of you would be willing to step aside or if all parties were willing to share the tie of soul."

"People in my culture sometimes leave one mate to be with another."

"Yes, and the same is true in our culture. But then again, this is frowned upon and can be uncomfortable for both parties. One who has left a mate to be with another could never hope to be an elder or even an instructional master to the young. The problem lies in living in a close knit village where you cannot even sneeze without someone being aware of it. In your culture it is much easier to hide from those who know the truth."

"I wouldn't want to bring that kind of trouble to Dasay."

"I understand. And your feelings do you credit. The real problem lies in the fact that this has gone way beyond that."

The half god sighed. "You're right, it has. I don't think I could walk away from her and I don't think she could walk away from me, either."

"Which brings us back to what you will endure should she find her soul's mate."

"Bottom line, my father, I just don't care right now. I seem to need her more than I ever thought I would need any woman besides Sira."

Thysis smiled at the half god he called son, and loved as if he had indeed fathered him from his own seed. "So next you must find a way to look past your guilt."

"Or live with it. Somehow I've found a way to live with the guilt I feel at loving my brother's wife."

Thysis chuckled. "There is nothing immoral about that, either. You are content to await your chance with Sira."

"Not always, I'm not."

Thysis chuckled again. "But still, you do wait. Stop being so hard on yourself. You are, after all, not perfect. If you were you would be above all this."

The half god smiled at the elder. "I've always felt I had to be perfect to make up for the imperfection of my godly family."

"I know, my son. But you cannot heal the entire world, no matter how much you might wish it were otherwise. You and Sira still have not learned that."

"I guess Iolaus has found a way to deal with the unique situation between the three of us, and now Dasay. He spoke with me a little about it."

"Iolaus is a very special person. He has found a peace with the earth that comes to few humans."

"He is special. I envy him. I also sometimes find myself jealous of him. Not just because of Sira, either. Even as kids I was sometimes jealous of him. Even back then he was special. But somehow finding Sira has made him even more admirable. He's changed a great deal in the last few years, and all the changes are good."

"Yes," Thysis nodded. "What you see in him now was always there, but Sira seems to bring out the best in all of us."

"When did Iolaus take the vow of clan?"

"When it was near the time for Hercus to make an appearance. Remember when the three of you came to my cave? Sira and Iolaus arrived before you. Iolaus asked to be included in the earth and the clan of the wolf and the lion. As the elder of the clan I had the right to grant his request. Sensing his sincerity I did so."

"I never knew he'd done this. I wasn't even aware it could be done, especially with an outsider." He set his now empty mug aside. "Dasay told me that I might not be allowed to return to the village if I come alone."

"As long as I am here I could grant you permission to be among us. If I were not here�" He shrugged to complete his thought. "There is the protection of the clan like Nemesis has or there is the vow of clan. The vow means that you are free to come and go as you please and that you are entitled to entry into any village or gathering of the earth's people. With protection of the clan you are welcome for this visit no matter how long it might be. Once you leave the village for more than a day or so you might not be allowed back. Still, as my chosen son you would be welcomed by me and I do not think even Fahr would try to deny that. You are correct that the granting of clan is unusual for an outsider. It was easy in Iolaus' case because I had not yet found others of the earth and because he is the soul's mate to the empath. Still, you, too, are linked in soul with her and with myself.

"The vow of clan is a solemn thing, my son. It is not something to be taken lightly. The ceremony is simple, but not the vow itself. The one being asked for entry must feel the sincerity in the one making the request. To join a clan is to become a part of a family. You would be expected to put the needs and best interests of that family before your own. If the clan calls for your assistance, you must come."

The dark god took a deep breath. He still found sleep impossible. He'd heard the conversation between his brother and the elder. So Hercules will miss his mortal brother Ares. He refused to completely form the thought that came to him. He would miss Hercules as well. So now he admits his feelings for his best friend and brother's wife. He now has a thing with the Dea of the village. Surely I could find a way to exploit this. He's jealous of Iolaus and lusts after his wife. At least it could be interpreted as meaning that. Come on, Ares, this is the kind of thing you thrive on, he scolded himself. But try as he might, he couldn't make himself think of exploiting or using the information. Again he refused to fully acknowledge the thought that was forming in his mind. The truth was, he'd been touched by his brother's confessions.

Damn! The sooner this is over and I can get out of here, the better. I'll recover the sword and banish that insolent upstart to the deepest catacombs. He smiled with anticipation. I'll send her so deep she may never get out, then I'll go back to being the god of war. That's something I can be comfortable with, or at least I once was. Damn!

The empath woke, then wished she hadn't. She simply didn't want to face what had happened last night. She felt a deep shame at her behavior. She felt guilt tingle her conscience as she acknowledged the fact that she'd wanted to keep the godly powers that had come to her through the transfer. She vividly remembered the pain and terror that came to her when the dam holding the godhood in check broke, flooding her with the god's emotions as well as the power of the gods of Olympus. She seemed to still feel some of that power lurking behind her feelings, as if ready to pounce out at any moment.

With a sigh she sent her mind to the other half of her soul. She remembered hurting him and her guilt seeped deeper. She could sense that he was better and found comfort in this. She sensed the god beside her and turned in the hunter's arms to check on her brother. He searched her eyes a moment.

"Are you well, my sister?"

"Yes."

"You're sure?"

"I feel tired, but well."

"About what happened last night. I'm sorry you were hurt by it."

"I left myself open to it. I could have gone slower, and most likely still achieved my goal. It was my choice to push for an end to the struggle."

"So why do you feel guilty?"

"So you sensed that? My guilt comes from wanting to hold onto the power I gained in the healing and at hurting Iolaus."

"You weren't yourself once the power was unleashed. You can't be held responsible for what happened right at that moment."

"I lost sight of the earth."

"And now, Sira? Are you still lost?"

The girl sent her mind out and received an instant flow of comfort from the earth. She pulled it to her, wrapping herself in it like a blanket. "No. The earth receives me still."

"Then let your guilt go." She nodded but said nothing. "Now, how much longer does this physical touch thing go on?"

"I see your impatience returned with your godhood."

"That hardly answers my question."

"Since there is no physical injury and since you have recovered your powers there must be a transferring back of your mind and soul to you, then we can start the process of severing the physical touch. It could be very unpleasant if we go too quickly, but I would say no later than tomorrow. Most likely sooner. Once the tie is broken I must sleep for a time."

"Tomorrow, huh?"

"You have not forgotten your promise to wait for my recovery so that we can do this together, have you?"

"No, I remember. I don't like it, but I'll keep my word."

Sira smiled at him. "Why are you gods always so impatient?"

He shrugged. "It comes with the job."

Hercules had slept for a time. When he'd awakened he'd gone to the river to bathe then went in search of Nemesis. He found her at the hut. She took one look at him and went into his arms.

"He's really a god again?"

"I'm sorry, Nemesis."

"This whole thing stinks."

"I'm sorry I didn't come to you after the healing. I was just too drained to make the effort."

"I understood. I came back here to be with Evander and to feel sorry for myself. I never thought I'd be able to sleep, but I did, and the sleep did much to restore my spirits."

"I'm glad. I know this isn't easy for you."

"It won't be so bad now since I have a place to stay and friends to keep me company. I've learned so much already. I have a secure home for myself and Evander."

"It seems Sira has healed more than Ares here in the village."

"She has. Much more."

The hunter helped the empath bathe. The god beside her kept his back turned only with an effort. Iolaus had helped him first and he knew damned well Sira hadn't been as disciplined about keeping her eyes to herself. He smiled now at her unabashed admiration of the male physique.

They'd eaten a meal of venison hunted and prepared by the villagers. Iolaus promised to hunt as soon as he could, but no one seemed to mind sharing their food or their good wishes and congratulations on the successful healing.

When the healer's bath was complete she suggested they start the process of severing the physical tie. Ares was impatient to end his confinement and readily agreed.

The empath sat across from Ares, his hands in hers. She was entranced, her mind touching his. "Let me lead us in this, my brother. The severing of the physical tie can be painful if we rush. Just relax and let your mind drift for a time. There is no hurry." She could feel his impatience and sought to soothe him. She found it hard now to keep his mind directed on the task at hand. His emotions were stronger, his mind busy.

She had never touched his mind so deeply as a god, but her lighter touches in the past had always met with a firm barrier of hate and anger. Much of that was gone now, and below what still remained she could sense other emotions that lightened her heart.

After almost an hour of meditation he finally achieved a deeper entranced state, and now she could help bring him to the point needed to sever the need of touch that held them together so closely.

Morning faded into afternoon, and still the break had not come. The shadows had lengthened before she opened her eyes to meet his brown eyed earnest gaze.

"I will remove my hands from yours slowly. It will hurt, but it need only be for a moment." She removed one hand from his then waited a moment.

"Ready?" He nodded. She pulled her hand away. He gasped and grabbed for her.

"Sira?"

"It is all right, my brother. It will get easier."

He gave her a skeptical look, and when she started to remove her hand again he tightened his hold on her. "Wait."

"It will be well. It gets easier each time we break the contact."

"I'll miss being close to you."

"As will I, but we have a mission, my soul's brother."

"The four of us working together?"

"Yes."

"I'll wait for you to sleep the healing sleep. I promise."

"I believe you, my brother." She pulled her hand away, and this time she was the one to reestablish their contact.

"I will wait for. . . You."

She knew he referred now to a time when they might be together when her heart and soul were free to embrace his.

When the final break came the healer felt bereavement. It was always like this and she always dreaded this moment. The hunter helped her to her feet to lead her to the log near the fire. The Dea brought her a mug of water and a plate of food.

The god sat where he was. Now that he was free to leave the shelter he found himself reluctant to do so. Where would he go anyway? He'd seen nothing of Nemesis or Evander and he feared the girl would try to keep it that way.

Hercules offered him a hand up and with a sigh he took it. "Your family is at the hut. Nemesis wants you to come see her when you feel you can."

"You're sure?"

"Yes. Evander's been asking about you."

"I was afraid she was avoiding me."

"She was, but she still wants to see you."

"Thanks, Brother."

"Are we still that now that you're a god again?"

"Yes. At least as far as I'm concerned. We always were; we just didn't know it."

"Hey, I tried. Back when I was a kid, I tried."

"I know. I always hated the fact that you were Father's favorite."

"That wasn't really my doing."

"I know." He shrugged. "Maybe some of my resentment of Zeus carried over to you."

Hercules nodded. "You better not keep the lady waiting. Women can be so impatient."

Ares smiled, then nodding made his way from the shelter.

Hercules watched his back for a moment. "Damn!" He, too, felt a bereavement.

When Sira finished eating the hunter pulled her into his arms. "Shall I take you to the hut?"

"No. I want to bathe at the river first." She kissed his neck. "The weather is mild; could we not find a place by the river to stay?"

"Of course we can." He nibbled her ear.

They walked hand in hand toward the river. They didn't stop at the large pool near the village, but turned to make their way upriver past a massive jumble of rocks that turned the water white as it shot through a narrow channel. Just past this they found a quieter place to bathe that also offered shelter of sorts among granite slabs larger than houses. They'd only brought a few things with them, not caring at the moment about such human concerns.

Sira wasted no time in slipping her clothing over her head and wading into the snow fed flow. The hunter was right behind her. He moaned and complained about the temperature of the water until the nature child came to him and sent her mind to help keep the cold away.

He pulled her to him to take her lips with hunger. "Damn, I've missed you."

The healer placed her hands over the blistered area on his chest that she'd given him while the godly powers of Ares surged through her from the transfer. The golden one could feel her mind on his.

"You mustn't feel guilty, little empath. I know you weren't yourself when this happened."

"I could heal you."

"You already are. It's nothing, really." He kissed her neck as his hand cupped her breast. "Loving me will be enough."

"I always do." Her hand caressed his chest then moved lower and his kiss became demanding.

His lips on her flesh sent shivers up and down her spine. Leaving her for a moment he brought soap and a cloth back to her and they bathed each other, taking their time, letting their need for each other build.

His caresses set her on fire and she began to tremble. Her breathing was labored, her muscles tight. Not caring about his own pleasure he took his time with her; kissing and petting her until the tension threatened to overwhelm her.

He took her in the water, letting the reduced weight this gave her help him to position her in a way that brought them both pleasure. The icy water only served to prolong their lovemaking. When she called out in liberation it sent him over the edge and his own groan of ecstasy followed closely on hers.

She clung to him, unable to let go. He simply lifted her into his arms and carried her to the blankets she'd spread in the sheltered overhang of one of the enormous white and black speckled, igneous rocks they'd chosen to stop by.

The golden one helped the nature child dress. Before he was finished he sensed that she was fighting the need to sleep.

"Rest, Sira. I'll take care of everything."

"Hold me for a little while before you make camp."

He laid on the blanket and pulled her to him. "Sleep and I'll hold you. In a little while I'll gather wood and make a fire."

"Forever." Her words were slurred with exhaustion.

"Even unto death."

The hunter seldom left the healer's side. He gathered wood or checked his snares, but other than this he stayed beside her. On the afternoon of the second day he sensed the Dea's mind on his and he opened his mind to her. She followed his thoughts to find their camp. She'd brought food and a change of clothing for both of them.

"Thank you. Dasay."

"You are welcome. She still sleeps the healing sleep?"

"Yes. She hasn't stirred much since yesterday."

"I did not wish to disturb you or her."

"You're not. Want to sit for a bit?"

"No, I should get back."

"Well, thank you again." She gave him a warm smile and turned to leave. "Dasay." She turned back to him. "I'm glad for you and Hercules." She searched his eyes. "I guessed after seeing you two together while you were watching Evander."

"I am glad that his family is so willing to accept me. It lightens my heart and brings me joy."

Iolaus smiled at her. "I think Hercules is a very lucky man."

"It is I who has been blessed." With a smile and a wave the girl retraced her steps.

Before she'd gone far the demigod met her on the sandy riverbank. He was rewarded with a brilliant brown eyed smile that showed her even white teeth.

"What are you doing out here?" Her voice was soft with pleasure.

"Looking for you. Nemesis said you'd come to the river to bring some things to Iolaus and Sira. So I decided to follow." He reached for her hand and she slipped hers into his with a sigh of contentment.

"I am most glad that you did."

"It's a cool day. Are you warm enough?"

"Yes, I am fine."

"Damn."

"What?"

"I was going to offer to warm you up."

The girl chuckled. They walked on in silence for a moment. "Hercules?"

"Yes?"

"I am rather cold, after all."

He turned to pull her into his arms. "I just knew you were." He took her lips gently. "You smell so sweet."

"It is lilac. I like to scent my soap with the flowers."

He kissed her neck, her throat then her lips again. She wove her hands in his hair to pull his lips tightly against her own. Her tongue sought his and he pulled it into his mouth.

His hands caressed her through the suede top she wore tucked into a wool skirt. He pulled the tails from under the skirt and pulled the top over her head. Moments later her camisole joined the top on the grass beside them.

He lowered her gently into the grass then turned away to remove his leather boots. When he turned back she'd removed the rest of her clothing. He drew a quick breath. Her dark brown hair was braided in one long plait that lay beside her to well below her waist. Her breasts were well formed and firm, her skin dark and dusky even where the sun couldn't reach. Her stomach was flat, her hips rounded.

"You're so beautiful."

She closed her eyes as a wave of desire swept over her. He removed his own clothing quickly then joined her on the grass. Before he could take her into his arms she straddled him. He took a deep breath of surprise at her boldness. He gave her her way for a time then turned her over to hover above her.

"Not too soon, my lover." His whispered words touched her deeply and tears shown in her eyes. Her mind opened to his to draw his thoughts to her where they blended and mixed with her own.

The touch of their souls and their hearts heightened the pleasure, and the half god found himself forced to slow down or end the lovemaking far sooner than he wished.

When he at last allowed himself to succumb to his need she'd been ahead of him twice before. Still, sensing his intention she was stimulated to join him and her cry joined his.

He rolled over to pull her against him, their bodies entwined, as were their senses. Her head was cradled on his biceps, her hands on his chest. He brought her fingers to his lips and kissed them.

Hercus offered to take Evander to the meadow to watch the young apprentices practice and Nemesis agreed. Since leaving the healing shelter Ares had stayed with the former executioner and his son. It was as if he couldn't get enough of their company.

Hercus and Evander walked side by side, the empath's son walking slowly to allow Evander to keep up. Nemesis stood in the doorway watching them walk away, then dropping the leather door covering she turned back into the room.

Ares looked up from his place at the table then rose to come to her and take her into his arms. He swung her around and she laughed. He nuzzled her neck, knowing full well it was a sensitive place for her. She threw her head back and he kissed her throat. She slipped her hands under his vest. His broad chest and tight muscles caused a tingle in her lower body that spread over her and she moaned.

He picked her up and carried her to the mats on the floor that she used for a bed. In haste they removed their clothing. He stood over her for a moment. Her eyes traveled over him in a caress that delighted him, then she held her arms out to him in an invitation that he quickly accepted.

His caresses were tender and sweet. She reveled in them, pulling to her the sensation of love they brought and storing it away for the future. The healing had changed the dark warrior, but not as much as she had feared. Why couldn't he stay this way and not go for the sword that would seal the healing and once again make him the god of war? She wanted to beg him to leave the duties of the one who brought a balance between good and evil to another, but feared his wrath. Still, more than this she knew his answer and dreaded to hear it put into words, thus making it impossible for her to hope.

The chosen one woke to the insistent call of a bird. Taking a moment to analyze her health she smiled to herself. She felt well, and what's more, she felt herself. The nagging sense of something not of her own soul now being a part of her was gone and she sent her mind to the earth to feel her mother's comfort enfold her.

She sensed the hour of the day as before midday then sent her mind out further to feel for the one she loved above all others. Sensing him sleeping near her she knew a moment of fear. It was unusual for him to be in bed at this time of the day. Could the injury that she'd caused with the hate and anger of Ares that had surged through her in the transfer, turned worse as she slept?

She strengthened her mind's touch on him and her fear subsided. She felt nothing amiss with him. He slept peacefully beside her and she rolled over to get a look at him.

She smiled. She was delighted at the blond curls that caressed his forehead. The crescent shaped scar on his right temple showed below the pale hair and she longed to touch a finger tip to it. He was turned slightly toward her and his vest had fallen open to expose the v-shaped tan down his chest; smooth and hairless except for a few pale shiny curls that never failed to excite her.

One hand was cradled under his head as a pillow, the other rested across him to hang down loosely. His hands were only slightly callused despite his hard work since part of their nightly ritual was for her to massage an oil into them to loosen and soften the skin. He kept his nails short by trimming them with a small knife he carried in his waist pack. She could tell by the shine of his hair and his clean nails that he'd bathed this morning.

A tingle started in her groin then spread quickly to set her on fire. The sight of him had never failed to stir her. She remembered the first moment she'd laid eyes on him. Even then with the evidence of his injury turning her stomach she'd been drawn to his masculinity. He wasn't a large man, not by human comparison, and yet he gave off a sense of strength in his well shaped, taut muscles and in his agility.

Her eyes traveled down his compact body and came to rest below his waste for a moment before traveling lower. They stopped at his thighs. The muscles bulged against his tight leather pants. She remembered all too well what it felt like to have his legs entwined with hers. The tingle in her loins grew in intensity to an almost painful need and she shivered.

She looked up to meet his blue gaze. The look in his eyes wrenched a gasp from a throat suddenly constricted with desire.

He studied the deep green of her eyes, reading easily her thoughts and he drew a quick breath. Her hair had pulled loose from its confining braid to surround her in a thick, pale, sun lightened halo. Her lips were slightly puckered with her need of him, and as he moved his eyes to watch their pink fullness she licked at her bottom lip as if savoring a tasty morsel of food.

His lower half was bathed in a painful tingle. His eyes moved lower to rest on the deep cleft between her healthy, soft fleshed breasts. Even through her clothing he could see the small round protrusions that spoke of her need.

Blinded with desire he reached for her and she whimpered with her need of him. "When I woke and found you sleeping I was frightened. I feared that your injury was worse than we had thought."

He kissed her lips lightly. "It's much better, really. I just couldn't seem to stay away from you. I needed to be near you so I laid down. I never meant to sleep." His hands caressed her. "You must be hungry. You've slept for three days."

"I am hungry, but food can wait. What I want now is a bath and you, in that order."

"You're going to need help with the bathing part, right?"

She smiled at him. "Of course. Lots of help."

"Well, I'm just the man for the job."

She laughed. "I will just bet you are."

The lovers stayed by the river for that day and the night. Sira knew that time was running out for them. Discord might learn the secret of the sword at any time. Then the chances of stopping her would narrow considerably. The empath wasn't sure how much help her mind powers would be against a god in possession of their full channeled power.

Each god had their instrument of power. For the god of war it was his sword. Once Discord learned how to harness the power of the sword they might not be able to stop her.

The earth's child knew they shouldn't take this time for their own pleasure when the world might be at stake, but she needed the time. Time to relax. Time to be with her soul's mate. Time to heal.

Soon they must face danger. Sira was smart enough to know the end might come for any of them at any time. If you take up the weapons of war you must be prepared for that eventuality. What lay ahead of them frightened the empath. Still, it was for her. The earth had called her to this in the destroyed village. She was being led to this as surely as the seasons changed each year. It was not her place to question the workings of the earth. She was but a servant of a far greater power, charged with a task that must be completed.

The creature of the forest and the golden hunter came together in the water and their lovemaking was primitive and animalistic. The untamed nature of it did more to stimulate the empath than simple caresses could have and her cry of pleasure startled the bird who had awakened her from his perch.

Her hunger appeased for the moment, their passion flared again once they left the water, and now there was time for patience and love rather than the lustful needs of the body.

What their first encounter in the icy pool had done for her physical needs, the hunter's gentle caresses did for her mind and soul.

Morning found them entwined in spirit and in body, their nakedness a natural part of their assurance in each other's love. Not bothering to dress they found food in the forest to fill their stomachs, then bathing once more in the river they dressed and gathered their things. They left the shelter of the mammoth sized slabs of rock, and hand in hand made their way back down the river and to the village.

Their arrival was heralded by many friendly waves and hellos. They made their way to the hut the village had built for the former executioner of the gods and her son.

Ares pulled the leather covering to the hut aside with a quick jerk. "Sira."

"My brother."

He pulled her into his arms. "When do we leave?"

"When you are ready."

He held her at arm's length, searching her face. "When you're well will be soon enough."

"I am quite well. If you wish we can leave tomorrow."

The god turned to watch Nemesis for a moment, then on past her to the boy who played on the floor. "Yes, tomorrow."

The former goddess turned away to hide her tears and the dark god turned eyes filled with emotion to the empath.

His look of anguish was met with a look of love and understanding. "We must remember the greater number, my brother."

"I'll be ready tomorrow." He turned away, and going to Nemesis he took her into his arms.

Sira wiped the tears from her own eyes and let the leather door covering fall back in place. The hunter put an arm around her shoulders. "Come on, let's find Herc. That will make you feel better."

They found the demigod at the meadow with Thysis and Hercus. Sira walked up to her brother. His back was turned, but sensing her he turned quickly to pull her into a tight embrace. "Are you well now, my more than sister?"

"Yes, thank you."

"Did you just arrive back?"

"Yes. We stopped to see Ares and Nemesis first, then we came to find you."

"How'd that go?"

"Not well."

"He's been with them every minute since you released him from the physical touch."

"His regret runs deep, but he is ready to once again take his place as the god of war."

"I take it, we leave right away?"

"Tomorrow."

Still with an arm around the healer, the half god offered his hand to the hunter. The golden one took his arm in a warrior's grasp.

Sira hugged her son and her chosen father. The old one took her aside. "I know this is something you must do, my daughter. But I want two promises from you. First, I want you to promise me that you will be careful. And second, I want your promise that you will return here once your mission is complete."

"We will return for a little while. Then we must leave again soon to return to Corinth."

"Yes. Your son and I have been talking of that. When you make your start for Corinth we would like to accompany you."

Sira turned surprised eyes to the man she called father. "You would do this for us?"

"For us, as well. We have been separated long enough. We would be welcomed by the brother of Hercules?"

"Yes, of course. He will gladly welcome you."

"Good. Once you have returned here and your mission in the village is fulfilled then we will be ready to go."

"You would be willing to leave once the book of clan has been opened?"

"For a short time, yes. Hercus has a desire to meet his Uncle Iphicles, and I have the desire to visit a large city. Should we stop for a day or so near the river, I will find pleasure in this as well."

Now Sira understood. Her father of the soul wished to visit his old village. "It will be so, my father."

Thysis invited them all back to his hut for the midday meal. His sensitive mind could sense the god's and former goddess' wish to be alone. Once the meal was complete Sira left the others to make her way to the healer's hall.

The healing mother herself greeted the empath, and the greeting was warm and friendly. "You have completed the healing sleep?"

"Yes, my mother."

"Now you wish to speak with the Dea."

"Your mind serves you well. Would it be all right? I make my request in the name of the earth."

"Of course. In the name of the earth you may enter." The elder held the suede curtain aside so that she might enter. "Lea, would you let the Dea know that the empath wishes to speak with her?"

The young apprentice bowed to the healing mother and gave a smile to Sira before moving smartly toward the back of the hall.

Sira smiled at the healing mother and the elder smiled back. "Her disrespect in looking you in the eyes should be punished."

"She meant nothing by it. She has a bubbly personality that gets the best of her at times."

"She is a good girl. Her mind is strong and she has a close tie with the Dea. There is a good chance that when I give my crystal to Dasay, Lea will take her place as the Dea."

"Is that what she wants?"

"I do not know. I have not asked her." Melay laughed. "I know what you are thinking. I would not insist. You are right, there was a time I would have. Now it would be up to her to accept the honor if she chooses to."

Dasay came through the doorway leading to the sleeping chambers of the apprentices, and with lowered eyes approached her healing mother and the empath.

"Honored Mother, thank you for allowing me to have a caller." Melay inclined her head and the Dea turned her attention to Sira. "I am honored that you would visit me so soon after waking from the healing sleep."

Sira held her hand out to her. "I wanted to thank you for your assistance in the healing."

Melay smiled at both girls. "It is a pleasant day. Why do you not take a walk in it? Then you will find it easier to talk. I am sure there is much you wish to share."

Sira leaned forward to kiss the old one's cheek. "Thank you, Mother. Your understanding is appreciated. You are indeed one with the earth."

"Not yet, but I am finding my way."

"There is a glow about you."

"I have found a happiness of sorts, already. I might even say I have been reborn. And I have you to thank for that."

"No. It was your own heart that found the way." Sira gave her a mischievous smile. "So, how is your old friend?"

Melay actually blushed. "He is wonderful. Quite wonderful."

Sira laughed. "Yes, there is a definite glow about you."

"You are very naughty to bring this up in front of Dasay. I am supposed to be setting a good example for the girls, not be a giddy little apprentice, myself."

Sira laughed again. "You carry it very well, my mother."

"Go on, you two, before I start to giggle like Lea."

Sira took Dasay's hand to lead her from the hall since she could only stand in stunned silence staring at her healing mother.

Melay laughed at her and left the girls, her step light. The moment they were out of the hall the dark haired girl turned to Sira.

"What was that all about?"

"It is not for me to tell. But you might ask Melay."

"She has a male friend, does she not?"

"I say again, I cannot say. But ask her. I think she just might like to talk about it."

"Not to me."

"Yes, to you."

"I cannot believe she has gone so far. I knew she was different. Right after you spoke with her about allowing me to be a part of the healing, she locked herself in her room and refused food or water. Then while I was in the healing with you, Lea tells me Melay was gone a great deal of the time, even at night. She also said that the healing mother walked around with a perpetual smile on her face and she has even been caught humming a time or two. What is more, she has let the girls out for an outing twice now and has gone so far as to laugh at some of Lea's foolishness."

"She has changed a great deal. I suspect that some of what you see in her was always there. It was just buried beneath resentment and loneliness."

"You did something, did you not?"

"I helped her find the earth once more. The rest has been her doing."

"You healed her. But how?"

"It was not like that. I helped her open her heart."

"I cannot believe the change in her."

"Yes, well, love will do that to a person."

"So she does have a suitor."

"Did I say that?"

Dasay laughed. "No. You have kept her confidence, my sister."

"You seem to have a glow about you also, my sister."

"I cannot stop thinking about him. I have not slept in nights and I do not care. I see him in the water bucket, or the well, or the river. Whenever I am outside the healer's hall I listen for his voice."

"So I take it, he has sought you out since we spoke last."

"Yes. After the first healing he was left with emotions that were uncomfortable to him. He sought the sanctuary of the river. Father Thysis suggested I take soap and a blanket to him. I was frightened to do so. I wanted him so badly but I feared he would resent my intrusion. I was afraid he would try to avoid me."

"He welcomed you, then." It was not a question.

"Yes. Then he sought me out at the river when I brought some things to you and your soul's mate, while you slept the healing sleep."

"I wanted to thank you for that, as well. It made it easier on Iolaus and meant that we could stay one more day after I woke."

"It was my pleasure. And besides, I was amply rewarded by your brother."

Sira laughed. "Love is definitely in the air."

"I will miss you all when you leave."

"But most of all, Hercules."

Dasay giggled. "I cannot seem to help myself."

"We will leave tomorrow."

"So soon? I thought there would be more time."

"We will be back. It will only be for a short time, however. I must be in Corinth when my soul's sister has her baby." Sira smiled to herself. "Tonight, Hercules will be walking near the river."

Dasay smiled. "Does he know that?"

"Not yet. But he will. If you were to send your mind to him he will know."

The Dea stopped walking, and closing her eyes she did as Sira had suggested. Sira watched a blush creep over the girl's face as a smile played about her lips. After a moment the girl opened her brown eyes to smile at the empath.

"You are right. He does plan to walk along the river tonight."

"I thought so."

"I wanted to thank you for letting me be a part of the healing. I have learned so much."

"Keep your heart open to the earth and you will learn even more. If you would like, we can continue the lessons with mind. Not this time, for I fear I will need my thoughts for what is to come. But after that. When we go to Corinth. Then we could work together in mind to help you learn, as I will also learn."

"I would like that very much, my sister."

The empath returned to her father's hut to find the only one still there was Hercules. Iolaus had gone hunting and Thysis had taken Hercus into the woods for a lesson in horticulture.

The big man looked up from the thin leather strips he was braiding to smile at her. She took a seat across from him.

"So you've been playing the matchmaker, have you?" He did nothing to hide his smile.

"I do not know what you are referring to."

He laughed. "I had no idea I had made plans to walk by the river tonight."

"You had thought of it; you just had not yet fully planned it."

"Well, that's news to me."

"It should be a pleasant night."

He laughed again. "I love you, my more than sister."

"I love you also. That is how I knew you would want to take a walk tonight."

He smiled as he studied her face. "I see the light of adventure in your eyes, my sister."

"You know me well, my soul."

"This won't be some cake walk. There is a real potential for danger in what we're planning to do."

"I am aware of that. You do not fool me for a moment, dear brother. I see the same light reflected in your own eyes. And we both know where Iolaus' heart lies."

The half god chuckled. "The three of us are well suited. We're all three damned fools."

Hercus and Thysis approached them from the clearing. "You are all three warriors," the elder corrected.

The morning sky was shrouded in clouds when they met in the village clearing. Nemesis walked with Ares from the hut, Evander in her arms. The others had stayed at the elder's hut to give the lovers a chance to say their good byes.

Hercules took the little demigod into his arms for a warm hug then passed him to Iolaus. The hunter tickled the boy's ribs as he finished his hug then passed the laughing child to Sira who hugged him then kissed his cheek. The empath's son took Evander and suggested they take their bows and join the other boys in hunting. Evander was far too young to really hunt, but it would serve to entertain him and help ease his sadness at his father's departure.

The child went to the god and raised his arms to be picked up. Ares lifted him into his arms to hug him. "I'll be back. There is an important job I must do. I'll be gone a great deal of the time doing this important job, but I'll come to see you often."

"I don't want you to go, Father."

"I know. We talked about this last night. You said you understood."

"I don't. I want you."

"I'll always be your father. I'll come as often as I can. This I give my word on. Now go with Hercus and make me proud."

Hercus hugged his family. He, too, hated to see them leaving to once again embrace danger. He sent his mind to the earth to find comfort, then taking a firm grip on Evander's hand he led him away.

Hercules looked up to see the Dea watching them from a short distance away. He longed to go to her and take her into his arms. He'd only left her about an hour ago, but the need to hold her before he left was strong.

The girl came forward, and not caring if she was seen she put her arms around him. "Hurry back, my lover," she whispered in his ear then stepped back to hug the empath. "Take care of him, my sister."

"He is under the protection of the earth, and I will watch over him for you as well."

"Thank you, Sira."

The girl hugged Iolaus then turned to the god. "I hope you find what you seek, my brother. I will watch over your family for you. Should you wish to know how they are doing and cannot leave your duties to see for yourself, touch my mind and I will know. I could lead your mind to Nemesis if you wish it."

"I know you'll take good care of them. I will ask for your help in getting a sense of them if you really wouldn't mind."

"I would not mind. I look forward to touching in mind with you soon."

"Thanks for the help in the healing."

Sira took the former executioner's hands in hers. "You are of the earth, my sister." Nemesis nodded as the tears came and Sira hugged her. "Do not be afraid to go to the Dea. Her mind is strong, and the earth surges through her. She will help to fill the loneliness."

"I will."

Ares offered his hand to Thysis. The old one studied it a moment then hugged the god instead. "Come to visit me, my son. I will welcome your visits. Besides, you still have several games of chips to win before you can claim to have beaten me."

Ares laughed. "I will, my father. Take care of my family."

"You know that I will."

The elder took Sira's hand. "The book awaits your return. Go with the earth, my daughter."

He hugged both Hercules and Iolaus then turned to leave them. He found good byes as hard as Sira did.

The travelers turned away from the village to make their way to the forest. At the edge of the clearing Ares looked back.

With a sigh he turned forward and walked on. "I never thought I would resent the idea of being the god of war."

Sira stopped to take his hands. "If you feel that strongly about this then you must not take up the sword."

He pulled her into his arms. "No. This is for me. I can't turn my back on it. No matter how much I love them and want to be with them, I would never be completely whole without the sword. It is who I am. No matter how much I wish it were otherwise, I can't have it both ways."

"You will come to see her and Evander."

"Yes, but will it still matter so much to me once I am the god of war once more?"

"I see. I am sorry, my brother. I did not know this was the thing that bothered you."

"I wasn't very nice when I was the god of war."

"But she fell in love with you when you were."

"And I fell in love with her. But the feelings I had then were far different than what I feel now. Even the healing didn't change that, but taking up the sword might."

"Then do not let it. Remember the feelings and keep them with you."

"I hope that I can."

"Go to the earth. She will help you."

He turned to walk once again, his arm still around the empath. "And will you still help me, my sister?"

"You know that I will."

"Then let's go stop this bitch that has stolen so much from me, while bringing even more in its place."

"What will you do to her?"

"She'll find herself lost in the catacombs. And this time I'll go to Zeus. I don't know that he'll stand up to Hera, but if he puts his seal of approval on her exile, even Hera wouldn't dare to release her."

Sira nodded but said no more as they passed through the trees to find a game trail that led in the direction they wished to go.

The clouds had darkened as they walked but no rain fell to slow their progress. At midday they stopped in a meadow along a small brook that rattled over pebbles in its bed and bit playfully at its grassy banks. The wind buffeted them with icy fingers then moved to gut the fire. The empath predicted rain before the day was done and no one questioned her. It could be felt in the air.

They left their place of nooning to take up the trail once more. They all searched for a place of shelter to stop for the night. None of them relished the thought of being caught in the storm that was quickly descending on them. Huge black clouds obscured the sky, lit now with jagged streaks of light.

The wind sent tiny bits of sand to sting their skin and redden their faces. Hercules came to the forest child he called sister. "Can you sense shelter of any kind?" His shoulder length, sandy hair blew across his face and he pushed it back impatiently.

"Not yet, but I will keep searching."

"We're going in the right direction, aren't we?"

"Yes. I can sense Discord. She has returned to the temple where we found her before."

"Not too smart on her part."

"Why? She has no need to fear us. It is we who should fear her. She is, after all, the goddess of war."

"Not until she finds out how to use Ares' sword, she isn't."

"But you forget the arrogance of the gods, my brother. As far as she knows, Ares is still mortal. What hope would he have against her?"

"What's to prevent her from just zapping out before we even get there? I mean, she should be able to sense our approach."

"She did not the first time, and she will not this time."

"I've been wondering about that. Was she expecting us that first time?"

"No. She was convinced that Ares would take much longer to recover. But even so, she would have known we were near if I had let her."

The big man raised his eyebrows. "Care to explain that?"

"It is simple. I used my mind to convince her that we were not there."

He laughed. "You what?"

"It can be an easy trick if you know how to do it. Her mind is strong, as are the minds of all the gods. But like the others, her mind is not directed. The gods of Olympus do not always believe what their senses tell them is true. Their arrogance makes it easy to deceive them."

"She might be on the lookout for it this time."

"If she were not so sure of her own superiority, you would be right."

"Couldn't she know that Ares has gotten his godhood back? These damned gods always seem to know things you don't want them to."

The girl smiled. "Yes, she could have known if she had bothered to try. She has stayed away. I think she is a little afraid of us. At least for now, until she can learn to harness the power the sword could bring to her."

"So let me guess. You plan to just march in there and politely ask for the sword?"

"Something like that, yes."

"You are more powerful than she is, right?"

"Yes. Except as we know, my powers are quite different from those the Olympian gods possess. I cannot throw energy at her to harm her physically, as she can at us."

"But you could fry her brain."

The empath sighed. "Frying her brain, as you put it; there would have been a time I would have denied this possibility. But now�" Her words trailed off. "Now I think it would be possible to destroy her mind if I chose to do so. It is not, however, something I would wish to do."

"I'm sorry. I wasn't really trying to suggest you should."

"I know, my brother. Know this, however, I will do what I must to stop her. And may the earth forgive me."

He put an arm around her. He said no more, but his mind's touch on her was comforting. And as they walked on the first few drops of rain fell.

Before they had gone much further the empath found them shelter in a shallow cave. The men left the healer there while they searched for wood. There was no water at the cave but the water skin was full. The empath started the fire with the first load of wood. She set a pot of water to boil for tea and a second to make a stew. She tore apart bits of dried meat and put it into the pot even before the water was boiling. She would add some of the roots and vegetables they'd brought from the yosemin village to add flavor and substance to the meat. The warmth of it would help to chase away the chill the rain had brought to them.

Without a word the god had stayed with them in the downpour, suffering with the cold along with them. He could have used his powers to find warmth and shelter elsewhere, but he didn't.

He came into the shelter with an armload of wood. Dropping it next to the first load he knelt by the fire for a moment to add a piece of wood to it. Then without comment he left to gather more wood.

The tea was ready when the men at last returned to the cave. They were all drenched. Sira had laid dry clothing out for all three of them. Ares lifted the woven moss trousers up to give them a critical look. Then with a shrug he turned away to change.

Hercules and Iolaus looked at each other but said nothing. The god could have used his powers to make himself dry and comfortable, and them also for that matter.

Sira smiled to herself. She would not have been offended if he had used his powers. While she had no wish to have them used on her or to provide for her, she would not have objected to him using them for himself. Still, when he didn't she was pleased.

Once the men were dressed the empath moved to the back of the cave and removed her own wet things. Ares turned away, but looked back once to watch the empath's naked backside for a brief second. He was glad neither his brother nor the hunter had seen him looking. With an effort he kept his back turned until the child of the forest came to kneel before the fire. She once again wore her woven moss trousers. She'd worn a dress while in the village of her people, but now she returned to the clothing that she felt the most comfortable in.

Iolaus grinned at her. "I wondered what you'd done with your pants."

She looked up to smile at him. "I did not think it would be proper to wear them in the village. I must say, they feel wonderful. I missed the freedom they bring me."

"And I missed the view they give me."

"Here, here," the demigod agreed.

"I think all women should wear tight pants," Ares announced. "Once I'm the god of war again I think I will demand that this be so."

Sira laughed at them all. "Then you men would get very little work done, always staring at the women in tight pants."

"But wouldn't life be sweet?" the hunter sighed wistfully.

The god had no need to eat or sleep. He paced the confined space of the cave nervously. After a time he came to stand before the empath. "Look, if I gave my word that I wasn't going after Discord by myself would you believe me?"

"Yes."

"Then I'll see you in the morning."

Sira stood to search his face. "I will see you in the morning, then."

"Thank you, my sister." Stepping back he was gone.

"What's that all about?" the half god asked.

"I am not really sure. Perhaps just the fact that he does not need to eat or sleep, and being with us while we do made him uncomfortable."

Hercules gave her a skeptical look. "You really trust him to come back?"

"Yes." The empath turned to stir the stew. The hunter and the demigod exchanged looks over her head but said nothing.

Sira was the first to wake. She knew at once that Ares had returned and sat up to watch him in his crouch at the fire.

She could see his profile in the shadowed light. From the fire she could read several emotions that flashed across his handsome features. She had no way of knowing where he'd been and she wouldn't ask. He had given his word to return and he had kept that word.

She left her bed to stand at the entrance to the cave. The rain had passed over them during the night, moving on to wash the yosemin village clean and to fill the water barrels that sat out beside each hut. In the village two girls lay in their beds. Neither one was sleeping. One was awake with the anticipation of a lover's return, and the excitement of anticipating times with him still to come.

The other girl was awake with loneliness and longing for a man who was now a god. A god who would soon return to a life she hated. She'd asked the night a thousand times if he might return, but no answer came to comfort her. So she turned once more in her tousled bed, plagued by demons her love for him made in her mind. "Will he return to me?" she asked once more. The night was silent. The only sound, the wash of rain on the roof, and she turned once more.

The god looked up to watch the chosen one's back. A wave of longing shook him and he looked away to stare into the fire.

Without a word the healer left the cave to make her way to the forest. The grass and bushes were still wet from the rain. Through the tattered shreds of the clouds she could see the stars just starting to fade to make room for the sun.

She stopped at a trickle of water left from the rain that cascaded from a rocky face to drop into a shallow basin before spilling over to run along a gully.

She drank from the pool, then unable to resist she pulled her top over her head. Her camisole followed, as did her other clothing and she bathed in the soft, cold water that had fallen from the clouds during the night.

The god came to stand beside her, and holding out his hand it filled with a cloth and soap. She took both without embarrassment. She washed her body then rinsed it with water held in the cloth.

Ares took the cloth from her, and moving her hair aside washed her back. No words passed between them. When she finished her bath he held his hands out before him then placed the blanket that filled them around her shoulders. Stepping back he was gone.

The girl left the soap and the cloth on the rock and turned to gather her clothing. She looked back to find them gone from the edge of the rocky basin.

Dressing, she hung the blanket on a branch and made her way back to the cave. Ares handed her a mug of tea.

"Thank you, my brother."

"Shall I comb your hair for you?"

"Yes, please."

He came to stand behind her. Gently he untied the leather lacing that held the braid. Just as gently, he began to unwind the long pale strands. He let them sift through his fingers, liking the silky feel of them in his hands. With a comb his godly powers created he began to curry her silver-gold tresses.

"I came back just as I promised."

"I knew that you would."

"Would you believe I almost didn't."

"But you did." She reached up to take one of his hands. "We must do this together. When we do I will stay with you for a time if that will help."

He pulled his hand away, and leaving his task incomplete he went to stand at the entrance to the cave. "I wish I could make you understand that all this emotion you sense from me will be gone once I possess the sword again. My need of your comfort or of my family will be gone with it. The hate and anger you felt in the healing will be back and I will once again be the god of war, with all the evil that goes with the job."

"You are wrong, my brother. Do not ask me how I can be so sure of this, but I am. Much of your hate and anger was lost long before your sword was stolen. In the weeks that have passed since you lost the sword, even more of these emotions were burned away in the fires of your despair. Still more was washed away by the earth in the healing that returned you to godhood. I am sorry, my brother, but even should you wish to once again be that god of old, it can never be again. That life is over, as surely as the sun will rise this morning. I never meant to leave you so vulnerable. In wishing to help you and in loving you I have changed you far more than even mortality could. You are once again a god, and whether you regained your immortality in that or if that must wait for the power of the sword, it will come. But I fear little else of what you once were will remain."

"But much of it has already returned. I feel the itch for battle even as we speak. I feel the old thrill of invincibility. The hunger for power is what really draws me to the sword, not the need to protect the people of this earth. You said to remember the needs of the greater number. That meant nothing to me. I don't give a damn about that. I want the power. It calls to me. It intoxicates me like a strong wine. I'm addicted to it."

"There is nothing wrong in having these feelings. I hunger for battle also, my brother. There are many kinds of battles. Even a game of chips played fairly can be a battle. As for not caring about the people of the world, that is centaur dung and we both know it. Maybe you have not become a champion of the little people like your brother, but you have no more desire to see innocent people killed for sport than I do. I well understand your need for power. I sensed the euphoria of your godly power. It is indeed a strong drug. But even before this, I craved power. The earth's power is something I cannot live without. I, too, need the power to make my life whole."

He came to stand behind her once again. After a moment he took up the comb once more. "I only wish I was as sure as you seem to be."

"The fact that you no longer have the desire to be as you once were is evidence enough that you have changed in a deep and profound way."

"I can't be a saint, my sister. Not and be a god also."

Sira laughed. "I do not believe I would like you much if you were."

"There will be war."

"I know that."

"There will be death and carnage."

"I never thought otherwise."

"The world is filled with evil that I have no control over."

"You do not have to tell me this."

"I still believe there are those who deserve to die."

"Perhaps."

"I can't stop these things and I have no desire to."

"I know that also."

He sighed. "You make a magnificent god, my sister."

"Am I a god, my brother?"

"Not all gods' powers come from Mount Olympus."

As the sun came up a thick fog descended to shroud the world in an eerie, spectral cloak of gauze. The travelers left the cave and followed the forest creature's sense of direction since no landmark could be seen to guide them.

Their nooning was a short one, taken in a small grove of trees, their tops still lost in the fog. When they left the trees the empath once again led them using her hold on the goddess to keep her direction. Almost without warning the fog lifted to turn the sky gray and hide the sun, softening the horizon in haze.

Topping a ridge the travelers looked down on a village ravaged and torn.

The empath went to her knees in the fog dampened grass. "No!" she screamed. "Not again!"

The hunter went to his knees beside her and she grabbed for him to steady herself. Tears spilled from her eyes to splatter from her chin and darken her shirt.

"Sira?"

The girl shivered. Her eyes closed tightly, as if having them so might shut out what lay below.

Then after a moment she opened them to search her lover's eyes.

"I sense death, but not from those below."

The hunter rose and pulled her to her feet. "Are you going to be all right?"

"Yes. The earth has not called me to this. There is no need of healing in the village, at least not the kind of healing I could do."

The half god son of Zeus turned to look once more on the village. "Let's go find out what happened down there."

Some of the huts still smoldered, sending up the acrid stench of lives torn by the ravages of war. And a battle it had been. The grass was torn and bloodied. Weapons, pieces of leather, water flasks and helmets could be seen. To their left a dead horse, already bloating in the warmth of the day lay on its side to continue the tale of war the travelers could read at their feet.

At the edge of the village an old man struggled to lift a pole to repair the fence around his barn. Hercules stopped beside him. "What happened here, friend?"

The old one lowered the pole and stood to lean heavily on the upright pole still planted firmly in the sod. "Two bloodthirsty armies waged a war right through our village." He looked around him. "All these miles of open country, and it's here they decide to fight. It was as if they'd been led to this place by something."

"Or someone," the hunter whispered.

Hercules met the hunter's eyes then looked back to the old man. "Is anyone hurt?"

"None of us. We were forewarned and fled in the night. Not one of us was hurt and much of our belongings were saved."

"Warned?"

"A man came in the night. A stranger hidden behind a black cloak and hood. We had no reason to believe his tale of danger, and yet there was a ring of truth to his words. Once he knew we were believing him he stayed to help us gather our things, hitching mules to the cart and lifting children up on the baskets and bundles. He saved our lives, he did."

"What did this man look like?"

"Don't know. We never saw the face behind the black cloak."

Sira turned to search the god's face. He looked her in the eyes, defying her to comment. She looked back to the old man. "Is there anything we can do?"

He sighed. "It's up to us to rebuild our homes. The gods saw fit to spare us, and we owe them something for that. Maybe our labor will be payment enough."

Sira squeezed his hand where it held onto the fence pole. "I am sure it will."

The old one smiled at her, his faded blue eyes kind. Then with a sigh he bent to once again lift the horizontal fence pole. The demigod took it in one hand and set it in place, holding it there while the farmer tied it with a leather cord.

They left the village to climb the incline they'd descended to reach the village. As they walked the empath deliberately dropped behind to walk beside Ares. She stole a look at him then walked on. "How did you know?"

He didn't look at her. "I always know when an army is on the move."

"What you did back there, it was good."

"You think I did it to help those people out of some goodness of the heart, don't you? You're wrong this time, little empath. I did it to foil Discord. Don't look for goodness that isn't there."

Sira linked her arm through his. "Forgive me, Lord Ares. I forgot myself for a moment."

"Humph," was the god's only reply.

Sira knew full well why he had helped the villagers. She wondered if he did.

They traveled late to cover more ground. The village was stark evidence that Discord hadn't gone into hiding. They found a place to stop along a small stream. They'd passed into the rocky area before the hills they must cross to reach the temple of the present goddess of war.

Their camp offered no real shelter, but the weather was dry, if not warm. Along the rocky hillside mud wasn't really a problem.

Sira started the evening meal while the men gathered wood to help keep the fire going during the night. The high gray fog of the afternoon descended upon them, adding to the damp chill that bit at them with icy teeth.

They sought their cloaks for protection from the dampness as much as the cold, all that is, except the empath. Still barefooted she seemed untouched by the cold. Not so, the god. He sat hunched by the fire, his cloak pulled tightly around him.

Sira stopped by him to rub his shoulders. "We would not mind if you chose to find a warmer place to spend the night."

"I'll stay."

"Have you been back to your temple yet?"

"No. I won't go there until the sword is mine again. It is the temple of the god of war, not of Ares."

The healer shook out her own blanket from her bed roll and put it around his shoulders.

Iolaus narrowed his eyes a moment. "How come you can't just use your godly powers to chase away the cold from yourself if not the rest of us?"

"Because, my friend, my powers are still unchanneled. It takes a supreme effort to make this work for me. Why expend the energy now when I may well need it very soon?"

"Point well taken. I think I'll go for a bit more wood."

Ares looked up to smile at him. "Thanks."

The hunter chuckled. "What are friends for?"

The daughter of the clan of the wolf and the lion woke in the night to a sense of danger. Instantly she sent her mind out to search for the source of her disquiet. Rising, she looked about her as she sent her mind out. She moved her head from side to side as if listening for a vague sound rather than using her mind to search about her.

She walked to where her brother, Ares slept. As a god he seldom slept. But even the gods of Olympus must stop to renew their energy at times. She knew that they could will themselves to sleep should they have the desire to do so.

Her mind told her he slept now and she had no desire to wake him. Kneeling beside him she felt about her with her mind then rose to walk around the camp.

After a moment she went to the fire to add some wood then stood over it waiting for it to catch. When it was burning well she sat on the ground beside it, and staring into the flames she let them hypnotize her into a trance. Swaying slightly she used her mind to search even further. Satisfied she had her target, she used her mind to touch that of another. Not a deep touch, for the one she touched must not know of her intrusion.

The sun was just touching the eastern sky when the demigod joined the empath at the fire. She smiled up at him then rose to pour him a mug of tea.

He accepted the tea then took a seat on a rock near the fire cradling the mug between his hands to warm them. "How long have you been up?"

"Not long."

The girl poured grain into a pot of boiling water then stirred it as it cooked. When it was ready she removed the pot from the fire and set it aside to soak up the water. She went to the hunter and shook him to wake him. He was awake instantly, and reaching up grabbed the healer to pull her into his arms.

She kissed his mouth playfully. "Breakfast is ready."

"I'm not hungry for food."

"Well, for the moment that is the best I can offer."

He moaned. "Life can be so cruel."

She bit at his lip then whispered something to him that made him catch his breath. Rolling over blankets and all he pinned her beneath him. His kiss was tender and she closed her eyes with passion.

The half god made a point of making a lot of noise and the hunter rolled over to sit up. He didn't leave his blankets, however. He used them to hide his fervor for the woman he loved. Laughing, she jumped to her feet and began to dig bowls from the packs.

Ares rose, and without a word left the camp. Iolaus raised his eyebrows. "I didn't think gods had to do that."

"He has gone into the woods to use his godly powers to groom himself," Sira told him. "He left the camp to do so out of respect for me."

"Oh."

The god returned to the camp to take the offered mug of tea. While he didn't have to eat often, he did at times have to fuel his body. But more than this he found the strong Tassis tea the healer made gave him energy, and he savored the sweetness of the honey she put in his mug.

While they were eating the empath looked up. "We had company last night." The two men and the god exchanged looks. "Discord knows we are coming. She was here in the camp while we slept."

The demigod jumped to his feet. "Damn!" He paced for a moment. "Now what?"

"We go on."

"It's one thing to sneak up on her, and quite another to storm her temple when she's prepared for it."

"She does not know when we will come to her, and she will not as long as I can keep her mind occupied."

The half god came to stand before her. "You've got a sense of her?"

"More than that. Her mind is mine for the moment. She will think we are still here by the fire as we approach the temple."

"How long can you keep this up?"

"For as long as I must."

The hunter looked to the god. "I wonder if she knows about Ares."

"I sensed her presence near him the most, as if she had stood over him for a time. But whether she knows that he is now a god, I cannot say. Perhaps not, since he was sleeping."

They left their place of the night in haste. The sooner they reached the goddess' temple, the better. The fog lifted to be blown away by a light wind that never quite made it to the earth itself, seeming to prefer the company of the heavens. The sun shone down on them and turned the day warm.

The empath removed her drinking flask strap from her shoulder, and bringing the flask around she uncorked it to bring it to her lips. She hesitated, not taking a drink. Stopping, she closed her eyes for a moment, then with a gasp quickly dropped the flask.

The demigod, walking closest to her turned to look at her in concern. "What is it, my sister?" He bent to take up the fallen water flask.

"No! Do not," the girl grabbed for his arm. "It is poisoned."

The half god stood once more to stare at her. Recovering the flask he took a sniff at the top.

"Look." Ares pointed to the grass where the water had spilled. The grass had withered and died.

"What in Tartarus?" The hunter's voice was brittle with concern.

"Discord," the empath whispered.

"Did you sense her, or the poison?" the god asked.

"Both."

Without a word the demigod passed his flask to her. She closed her eyes a moment then took a quick taste of the liquid. The hunter reached to stop her.

"It is well, my soul. This water has not been tampered with." She checked the other water flasks. None besides her own had been poisoned.

The half god son of Zeus started to pour the water from the healer's flask on the ground but the empath reached to stop him.

"Do not, my brother." She took the flask from him and corked it. "There is no need to poison the earth with Discord's evil. We can bury it, flask and all."

The god moved his hand, and before the girl a deep hole opened. He gently took the flask from her hands, and dropping it into the hole he moved his hand once more and the hole was gone as if it had never been.

Sira looked up to smile at him. Kneeling beside the dead stain of grass the poison had left she sent healing to the earth. After a moment she rose, and with a nod to them all she started forward.

They walked on into the hills that would take them to the goddess' temple. They ate dried meat, nuts, and berries as they walked, not stopping to rest at midday.

The demigod walked beside his more than sister of the soul. He kept giving her sideways glances. Seeing the look on her face he was convinced she fought some inner struggle. Could it be that she was finding it harder to keep Discord's mind confused? He said nothing, and they walked on in the fog that was beginning to descend once more.

He looked to his sister once more and this time he saw her grimace. "Sira? Are you all right?"

The hunter heard the question and turned to study the empath's face.

"Discord has realized her poison failed. We are engaged in a mental battle now."

Hercules moved to take her arm. "So let's blast her. With our minds combined we could put a stop to this."

"Wait. I do not believe she knows that Ares is once again a god. She has only had the one contact with me, and some of the fear that left her with has subsided. For now, this is to our advantage. If she learns of the strength we could muster against her she may well flee, taking the sword with her. For now, I can still deceive her as to our whereabouts and as to our strength. Let us continue."

She started to walk on but Hercules stopped her. "Are you sure you're all right?"

"Yes, for now at any rate. I do not believe she can win in a struggle of the mind. I am far too powerful for her limited knowledge of the game she plays."

Ares came to stand before her. "Why is she attacking you when it's me she wants?"

"I believe she knows she can hurt you by harming me." She sensed his thoughts. "No, my brother. Stay with us. This is our best defense. It will not be long now."

"I won't let you come to harm for me, Sira."

She reached up to caress his cheek. "Have a little faith in me and in the earth. I promise that should I find I am not up to the task, I will be honest about it."

"If she hurts you�" He didn't complete his angry declaration. He didn't have to; his implication was clear.

The night was dark, the fog thick, the visibility nonexistent. Still, the child of the forest led them on, letting her mind find their way. She still fought the inner battle of mind with the present goddess of war. Discord had sensed the yosemin's goodness and used images of evil and death to torture the empath's sensitive mind. In defense Sira countered with love and goodness, letting the power of good the earth lent her push the evil aside. The empath was made uncomfortable, but little more.

Discord still had no idea that they were only moments away from the entrance to her temple. Just as Sira had hoped, the goddess' own arrogance had made it easy to deceive her.

Sira made the image of the temple appear to all of them and it shown as a darker shadow in the fog. Stopping just outside the entrance to the temple the healer took the hand of each of the men and from the god. With her mind she sent her prayer to guide them.

"Est ingrasha nor ot ingrasha cantos, ingrasha orb, res ingrasha geo esh pola ah chieve. In the name of the earth, the sun, and the sky we will be victorious."

Silently they entered the hall that would lead them to the large main chamber of the temple. Discord sat sprawled across her thrown. Her eyes were tightly closed to help keep her mind focused on sending evil images to the empath.

To her left, prominently displayed on a dais was the god of war's sword. Next to it in a crystal container was the Ambrosia.

With a finger to her lips to indicate silence the healer began to inch her way toward the sword. Slowly she moved forward. Just a little more.

The goddess opened her eyes and jumped to her feet. "No! How could you be here?"

"Discord!" Ares shouted to her and she turned quickly to pin him with a disbelieving stare.

"You dare to return after the beating you took at my hands?"

"As I recall, it was you who fled in defeat at our last encounter."

Without warning she threw her hand out to hit him with a blast of energy that sent him flying back to land in a heap against the wall.

The hunter lunged for her to be caught in midair by the same kind of propelled blast of energy. He cried out and the healer screamed. Her mind still linked to the goddess' sent out a powerful blast of its own that twisted Discord around and to her knees.

"The sword!" Hercules yelled as he kicked at the goddess to send her toppling backward off the platform her thrown sat upon.

Sira sprang forward to grasp the sword. As her hand tightened around the handle a bright light blinded her. Energy and power surged through her in a painful rush that took her breath away.

The empath's mind, still on Discord's when the power of the sword blended with the power of the earth, hit the goddess with its full power and she screamed at the pain in her head.

Jumping to her feet despite the crippling pain she lunged at Hercules. He took a wicked blow to the ribs that doubled him over. A second blow, and he went to his knees.

Discord looked up in time to see the punch Ares threw at her. She grunted as she flew back to thud against her throne and send it toppling off the platform.

With a nasty laugh she turned her attention on the empath and sent a blast of energy at her. The blow hit the earth's child in the middle and she screamed. Before anyone could react, Discord hit her again and the empath went to her knees.

"No!" Ares shouted. He jumped over the platform in one mighty leap to pick the goddess up by the throat and toss her aside.

He moved to go to Sira when he was hit from behind by Discord. For a moment they pounded each other, neither one of them feeling the blows.

With a quick lunge back, the goddess blasted her energy at him and he fell away. Discord took advantage of this to hit Sira once more with her godly energy. Sira sent her mind out in a painful blast.

Seeing Ares start to circle around Discord to attack her once more, the empath shouted. "Ares! Your sword!" She tossed the sword to him.

Time seemed to stand still as the sword sailed through the air toward its rightful owner.

The empath looked about her. Iolaus lay in a twisted heap. The demigod, still on his knees, clutched at his stomach, pain clearly etched on his face.

Sira, sensing the goddess' intention watched her leap for the sword to try and get a hand on it before Ares could. The chosen one sent her mind to cripple Discord. The goddess screamed and fell back to be pinned to the floor by the power of the earth, now channeled through the empath.

Ares reached up to pluck the sword from the air. As when Sira took hold of the sword, he had been blinded for a moment by a bright light.

He seemed to visibly grow in stature and strength. A wicked grin split his face and he drew in a slow breath as if savoring a delicious smell. He pointed the sword at Discord.

"No, Ares! No!" she screamed.

A bolt of raw energy flew from the point of the sword. The goddess screamed in pain and disappeared, her scream reverberating against the temple walls giving the only evidence of her presence having been in the room.

Sira crawled to the hunter. Sobs shook her. Her mind, left singed by the power of the sword, couldn't get a sense of her mate of the soul.

"Iolaus, my soul. Iolaus." He remained unmoving.

She turned her face to the heavens and screamed. The sound was filled with anguish and pain, and the god of war cringed at the raw emotions that filled the chamber.

Sira took up the hunter's head to cradle it in her lap. She fought to bring her mind back from the hole it had been driven into at the power from the gods of Olympus that she'd been unprepared for. She couldn't find her way.

"Iolaus." Her wrenching sobs tore even more painfully at the god's soul.

The hunter twisted and jerked then opened his eyes to stare through their glazed vision at the empath.

"Sira." She shook with reaction. She'd been sure he was gone. "It's all right, my soul. I'm okay."

Ares helped his brother to rise. The demigod stumbled painfully to the healer and the hunter to go to his knees beside them.

The empath gasped as her body spasmed. The hunter struggled to sit up. Sira's cry of pain gave him the energy needed to do so and he caught her as she fell forward, her body twisted painfully in a tight cramp.

The demigod took a firm grip on her arm and tried to reach her mind with his. He found her mind closed tightly against him.

"Help me, Iolaus. We've got to reach her."

The hunter placed his hands on the empath's middle. The demigod moved his to cover those of his friend of childhood and more than friend of adulthood. The girl screamed again as her body contorted once more in a spasm.

"Sira!" The half god shook her, trying to get her to open her mind to him.

Ares knelt beside the girl, and laying his hands over his brother's he sent his mind to lend his power. Hercules looked up to search his brother's face. Using the things the nature child had taught him the half god tried again to help the girl he loved. Her mind seemed to slip further from them as her body reacted violently to the godly powers of the sword. She began to convulse.

The room was filled with light. Hands reached out to grasp those of the two sons of Zeus and the hunter. Almost at once the girl's body relaxed. Within moments her mind grew stronger as it began to clear.

The half man, the man, and the god of war looked to the King of the gods. "I kept Discord from finding a way to use your sword, Son," he addressed Ares.

"Thank you, Father."

"I had to help now. I couldn't let Sira be harmed by our powers. She would have pulled out of this on her own. She has the power to do so. Still, I couldn't stand to see her in pain."

Ares held out one of his hands to his father who took it in his. "Or those of us who love her, either?"

"I love her too, you know."

"Thank you, Father. You will help to keep Discord out of trouble?"

"She'll stay where she is for the moment. Your mother has a bit of explaining to do. She never should have revealed the secret of Brossus to anyone, let alone her daughter."

Sira reached up to touch the King of the gods' cheek. "Thank you for helping me, my father."

"You're welcome, my daughter."

"I told you I would help to look out for your sons."

"And you've done a wonderful job." He rose. "I must go. Hera will be pounding down my door."

Hercules looked up. "Thank you, Father."

"I let Hera take one of your loves. I couldn't let her take another." The half god's eyes filled with unshed tears and the King of the gods was gone.

Sira shivered. "I need the earth. It will give me strength."

Ares rose. With a wave of his godly hand Discord's temple disappeared and the empath found herself on the grass. With another wave of his hand a fire appeared. Bending down he took up the sword once more from the grass, and tossing it into the air it disappeared.

"That's better. It will be safe there for now." A quick toss of the hand behind him and the Ambrosia was also gone. "Now for my temple." He closed his eyes as he threw his head back. After a moment he opened them. Moving his head from side to side as if stretching muscles gone taut with tension, his lips spread in a smile of contentment. "That's more like it."

The child of the earth spread her fingers out wide in the grass and sent her mind to her mother. Love and comfort enfolded her and she laid down on her stomach, her arms out from her sides to embrace it.

The god of war helped his brother to his feet. "Let's get a look at those ribs."

"They're fine."

"And just a little bit broken, perhaps?"

"She packs quite a punch for a girl."

"She's no girl. 'Girl' speaks of softness and the sweet scent of flowers. 'Bitch' would be a much more descriptive term for Discord."

The empath came to stand beside the half god. "Take your shirt off so that I can get a look at your ribs."

"Really, there's nothing to worry about. I've been hurt worse than this and lived. Go help Iolaus."

The hunter came to stand by them. "I'm fine. I was just stunned."

Sira shoved the half god's hands away and pulled his shirt up. Even in the deceptive light of the fire the bruising could be seen and the girl sighed.

"Come on, we will take a few moments to heal you by the fire."

"Really, Sira. It's not necessary. I don't need to be healed."

"Perhaps not, but did you ever stop to think that I might need to heal you?"

He searched her eyes for a moment then allowed her to lead him to the fire. He tried not to grimace as he made himself comfortable on the grass. Sira helped him remove his shirt, then sitting beside him, her legs crossed, she closed her eyes. After a moment she began to sway as her mind became entranced.

The hunter stirred up the fire but found it didn't need wood. "How is it the fire burns so strong without adding any fuel?"

Ares shrugged. "It's a god thing."

"Think you could zap up something to eat?"

"Name it."

"Venison steak. Boiled potatoes with meat juice and some cooked squash." The hunter was only joking.

The god was not. A large plate brimming with the things the hunter had requested appeared before him.

"Wow, my friend. You make life too easy. Where's the challenge?"

"There is none. Maybe that's why we gods turn to tormenting you mortals for entertainment."

The hunter laughed. "One more thing, oh mighty god. Could you produce a never ending supply of tea?"

"As you wish."

The hunter took up a large mug of the dark fragrant brew he'd requested. He tasted it carefully, as if he was afraid it might taste nasty. "Hey, not bad. It's even sweetened with honey like I like it." The hunter saluted with his mug.

"I like it that way also." The god saluted with his own mug of tea.

The hour was late. They sat about the fire. All had eaten by the generosity of the god and Sira had made no objection. She sat now at the hunter's feet, his hands resting on her shoulders. The healing had gone well and Hercules admitted he felt much better when she'd finished.

The big man pulled his blanket closer around his shoulders. "So, tell me, Brother. If you knew the power of the sword would hurt Sira why did you let her go for it?"

"I didn't know she could be hurt by the sudden blast of godly powers."

"You knew the potential of the sword."

Sira stirred. "Please do not fight."

Ares smiled at her. "We're not fighting." He turned back to his brother. "I had no idea that Sira would instantly put the sword's powers into action. It isn't supposed to be like that. It takes time and practice to really harness its powers, at least for most of us. I hadn't bargained on her own mind powers." The half god nodded, but said no more.

The half god son of Zeus slept for a time then rose to join his godly brother at the fire. He was a little surprised Ares was still with them. The god handed him a mug of tea.

"Thanks," the demigod told him. A nod of a black haired head was the only acknowledgment of his gratitude. Hercules took a seat across the fire from Ares. "You really didn't know that Sira could be hurt by your sword, did you?"

"No. Only a god of Olympus is supposed to be able to use the powers of the god of war."

"Which brings up a question I've asked you many times before. "Did you use Ambrosia to make Sira a god?"

The dark warrior looked to where the empath slept cradled in the hunter's arms. "She would make a splendid god, don't you think so, Brother?"

"Ares."

"I did have ample opportunity to do so, and you're right in what you're thinking. If she was unaware of being a god she wouldn't know how to use what she has and might stay ignorant of her new, shall we say, status in life."

"Ares."

"You got a taste of what her power and the power of the gods could do."

"You're not going to answer me, are you?" There was anger in his voice.

"It doesn't look like it," Ares acknowledged. The demigod sighed and the god smiled. "She will be mine someday, Hercules. That much I will say."

The half god's anger of a moment ago was gone and he smiled at his godly brother. "She's worth waiting for, isn't she?"

"She most certainly is."

Morning brought a misty rain from dark menacing clouds. The gloom of the day was a fitting match for the empath's mood. The god of war announced his intention of leaving them.

"I only stayed this long to be sure you were well, my sister."

He sat on a log near the fire. The child of the forest came to him, and going to her knees before him she put her cheek on his lap. "I will miss you, my brother."

He smoothed a hand gently across her cheek. "I'll miss you also, my little warrior. More than you will know."

"I sense your goodness, my brother."

He laughed. "You never give up, do you?"

"Never. I told you, taking on the duties as the god of war once again would not take this from you."

"Now what? How will I ever balance the scales between good and evil?"

He was teasing her but she refused to take it as such. "Legends will be told in your name. Your male appeal will fill a room full of bard's scrolls. Long after the other gods have faded into obscurity your name will send chills up and down the spines of men and women alike."

"What frightens me is you really believe what you've just said."

Now the empath laughed. "Yes, I really believe it." She turned her head to kiss the palm of his hand. "Go with the earth, my soul." She rose and stepped back.

He rose to stand before her. Pulling her to him he looked deep into her eyes. "Will you kiss me?"

She leaned into him, offering her lips to him. His kiss was one of passion and her tongue sought his. His breath was ragged as he pulled away from her.

"It won't be easy waiting for you."

"The wait will make our union all the more sweet."

He lifted her into his arms and took her to the hunter. The golden one held out his arms for her and the god put her into his waiting arms.

"Farewell, my friend. I used to wonder what Hercules saw in your companionship. I will wonder no longer." The god turned to his brother. A smile played about his face. "Life won't be the same without the diversion of tormenting you, my brother."

"I wondered if that was part of the appeal in your interest in me."

"You've always been a worthy adversary." He offered his hand to the half god. Hercules took the arm in a warrior's grasp. They searched each other's eyes. With a slight nod the dark warrior stepped back. In a flash of light he was gone.

The hunter set the empath on her feet. She stood watching the place where the god had been. She threw back her head. Her cry of anguish sent a chill of pain across the half god's heart. He looked to the hunter and read the same look of sadness in the blue depth of his eyes as the demigod knew was in his.

Sira went to her knees in the grass where once a goddess' temple had stood. Her tears fell to the soil and she did nothing to check them. Her hands in the grass bit deep into the soil, tearing at the earth's flesh in her pain.

"My soul is torn." Both men went to the grass beside her, wrapping their arms around her in comfort. "Protect him, my mother, since I no longer can. He is your son, as surely as I am your daughter."

The girl slumped over and the men tightened their hold on her. "Take me away from here. Take me to my family."

The demigod rose to take her into his arms and the hunter gathered their things. Kneeling to take up a pack he stopped in disbelief. Where the healer's tears had fallen, tiny pale blue flowers grew. Each one perfect in its grassy bed. He touched a finger to one tiny little bud and it leaned into him.

The half god watched his every move. "Look, my sister. The earth has sent her love to you."

The girl followed his gaze and watched as the tiny green vine that held the flower caressed her soul mate's finger. He looked up through eyes blurred with tears to search her face. She held her hand out to him. He gently untangled the vine from his forefinger and stood to take her hand.

They found a place to stop for a time to rest and refresh themselves. The empath left the men to find a grassy place to be with the earth.

The hunter started a fire while the half god gathered more wood and filled a pot with water from a spring nestled among rocks near their place of nooning. The hunter kept shooting looks at the empath where she sat apart from them in the grass.

Seeing the concern on his face and sensing it with his mind the son of Zeus went to his knees beside his friend. "She'll find her way, my brother."

The golden one looked up to stare at him blankly, as if he hadn't heard the demigod's reassurance. After a moment he nodded. "I know she will. I just hate to see her torn like this."

"I know. It seems her life is destined to be one of trial."

"You're right, and I wish I could take that from her."

"But it's who she is. She's an empath. The earth's chosen one. I wouldn't want her any different."

"I wouldn't want her any different either. I only wish I could shield her from the misfortunes of life."

"To live is to have misfortune. Still, like you, I wish we could protect her."

They traveled far after their nooning since no place to make a night camp presented itself. The empath was glad. The travel kept her busy and gave her new scenery to feel the earth in. When they did find a place to stop it was near a brook. The water was cold and clear, and the child of the forest welcomed its offered comfort.

Removing her pants she waded into the water that came to her knees. The icy flow sent a shiver up and down her spine. Both men stood and watched her. The light was fading and they needed to gather wood, but both of them stood transfixed on the sandy bank watching the girl they both loved.

She untied the tails of her top to remove it and toss it on the grass near the men. She stood clothed in a short top and thong undergarment that concealed little. She bent to cup the water in her hands so that she could splash it over her arms and face.

The air around her glowed with light and energy that the men felt on their skin as a tingle of warmth and love. Bending once more she splashed her torso then smiled in delight as the cold water puckered her skin in goose flesh.

The half god son of Zeus turned to the golden hunter of the forest. The big man's eyes were filled with wonder that matched the look he read in his friend's eyes. With reluctance the demigod turned away to make his way to a stand of trees where he hoped to find the wood they would need to make the fire. His heart ached with a pleasant pain and his thoughts turned to the Dea. Even as his mind formed the thought he felt her mind on his and opened his senses to her.

He returned to the camp with a lighter heart. The child of the forest also seemed to have shed her gloom and she greeted his return with warmth.

The evening was a pleasant one and they retired to their beds early. The half god reached from his blanket to replenish the fire. Looking across the smoldering coals he realized the hunter and the healer were gone. He smiled to himself. He knew damn well why this was so and he was glad. He knew this would seal his sister's return to herself.

He built up the fire then pulled his hand back under the blankets. He squirmed as the knowledge of what Sira and Iolaus were doing in the woods took its toll on his imagination. "Damn," he swore under his breath. It wasn't always easy living around the love his friends couldn't hide from him or anyone else. It made his own longing all the more acute.

Again his mind went out to the dark haired, dark eyed healer. Without meaning to, his mind focused on the first time she'd come to him and he moaned.

Her mind touched his and he grabbed for her thoughts in haste. "I need you!" his mind shouted over the miles that separated them.

"I await your return, my love." Love surrounded him and he closed his eyes to savor it. It only seemed to make his need all the more demanding. He was sure she must know of his discomfort and her next thought confirmed this.

He blushed into the night. "Don't do this to me," he moaned with his thoughts. She only intensified her thoughts.

He jumped to his feet to stumble to the brook. Not waiting to remove his clothing he waded into the water to sit down in the icy flow.

The Dea's mind's touch grew stronger instead of weaker. Not even the cold water helped.

"Dasay." He shook with reaction to what was happening to him. How in Tartarus am I going to live with this one? he asked himself. He felt the Dea's mind caress him with love and knew there was nothing wrong in his body's strong reaction to their love. Her mind's touch softened and he began to relax. When he was calmer he removed his wet clothing.

He shook with cold now that his need had passed and he waded naked from the pool to hang his clothing on bushes to at least dry a little before they must be worn again in the morning.

He returned to camp cautiously. What if the other's had returned? Now he wished he'd left his clothing on, wet or not.

He stood on the outskirts of camp, knowing from the lump where the hunter and the healer's bed was that they had indeed returned to the warmth of the fire. They seemed to be asleep. With a shrug he tiptoed into camp to grab a blanket to cover himself. Digging in his pack he found the woven moss trousers Sira had made him. Dropping his blanket he pulled them on quickly.

The empath stirred. "Interesting time to bathe, my brother."

He moaned. "You could have at least pretended you were asleep."

She giggled. "This camp sure has a nice view."

"Sira."

"How is Dasay."

"Can't I keep anything from you?"

"Some things, yes. Besides, I was sensing her thoughts, not yours. You know well of our closeness and have built natural barriers on your mind. She will learn. You should not be embarrassed, my soul. It is all part of loving someone with a strong mind and healthy natural desires."

The half god took to his blankets without comment and the empath laid back down. "So, it's not really so unusual?"

The girl smiled into the night. "No, my more than brother. It is not."

Again there was silence for a time. "Iolaus is a very lucky man."

The empath laughed. "Like you, he was not so sure of that at first. Now I think he would agree with you."

"I guess I'd better watch my thoughts, if she can do that to me."

"Are you sure you want to do that to yourself."

Silence again. "On second thought�"

The healer laughed again. "Goodnight, my soul."

"Goodnight." The big man turned his back to the fire and settled himself more comfortably. "I'm glad you enjoyed the view."

The healer smiled to herself.

There was a thin layer of frost on the grass when the hunter woke. He quickly reached a hand out to replenish the fire then pulled it back under the blanket. His back was to the empath, but he could sense her there beside him sharing herself and her body heat with him and he snuggled closer to her.

He'd hoped to stay the night in the forest with her, knowing she took strength from the dense shadowed ferns and brush under the tall trees. The rich brown soil fed her, the smells filled her and the earth surrounded her with love and beauty to soothe and comfort her mind and soul. It had been the cold that drove them to back to the fire.

Their lovemaking had been fervent at first, but this had given way to tenderness as her sorrow once again spilled past the barriers her mind had erected. There were times the hunter cursed the empath's sensitive heart. It ravaged his own heart to see her hurt. He wanted to protect her from the pain and sorrow of life, and yet he knew he couldn't.

She'd told him when they'd first discovered each other that there would be times like this. Times when he would disapprove of what the earth led her to. He hadn't understood then what she'd meant. Now that he did he'd tried to find a way to accept it. He'd found a peace of sorts with the earth and himself, and yet no matter how he tried he couldn't find a way to detach himself from her pain and sorrow.

It wasn't that he resented her love for the dark warrior god she called brother. He'd learned long ago that no matter how many she might love or how strongly she might love them, it changed nothing in the love she had for him. In fact, he'd come to see that his own needs for her, both physically and mentally, were filled and satisfied with an even richer sweetness for having found others to fill her soul with love.

He didn't give a tinker's damn that his soul's mate shared a part of her soul with two other males. His own depth of love for her was too strong to be intimidated or slighted by this. What did bother him was the fact that in loving others she left her heart and soul open to sorrow.

He understood her pain at seeing Ares leave them. He'd returned to being the god of war. It wasn't that she wouldn't see him again or that their love for each other was any less. In fact, the golden one suspected that part might even be enriched by Ares once again taking on the role he was born to. As the god of war his emotions were more powerful and stronger than ever.

He understood that his mate's pain came from the separation between them necessitated by the dark warrior's duties. He had a job to do. The hunter suspected the manner in which Ares might conduct these duties may well have changed after his brief thrust into mortality, but still the things he must be a part of were things that tore at the empath's heart.

She'd changed a great deal from the reserved and withdrawn forest creature who'd healed him in the little glen deep in the forest and gone on to steal his heart and soul. The innocence of ignorance had been stripped away to reveal the real world to her with all its horrors and wonders. She'd found a way to learn and grow within the confines of human nature and its oft times barbarity and cruelty, and been able to see past it to the love and goodness that also made up the mortal plain she shared with her own race and her mate's race. Still, no matter how she'd changed, her heart and soul still bled for the pain and sorrow of others, and thus, he, too, was torn.

He reached out to put more wood on the fire. The hour was still early and there was yet time to sleep. The stars hadn't yet surrendered in subjugation to the sun, although they had begun to fade. He closed his eyes once more as he snuggled deeper into the comfort of his bed. After a moment he opened them. It was no use and he knew it. With a sigh he rose, carefully so that he wouldn't wake the empath.

He pulled his cloak around his shoulders. Taking up his boots he found a place by the fire to sit. Shaking them out first to be sure no little beasties had found a warm haven for the night in their depths he pulled them over his socks and laced them up.

Taking the pot from beside the fire he made his way to the brook, stopping along the way to take care of his natural needs. He found the demigod's clothing on the bushes and gathered them. There was frost on the still wet leather and the hunter didn't envy his friend's wearing of them.

He also relieved his snares of their offerings, taking time to dismantle the traps before moving on. He wouldn't wish to leave the snares where they might harm an animal he didn't need to feed himself and the others. Stowing the leather lacing he'd used in making the snares safely in his pocket he returned to the fire.

Tying several sections of lacing together he made a rope to string between a tree on one side and a rock on the other. It hung close to the fire and the hunter put the demigod's things over the rope to further their drying. Putting the water on the fire to heat he stepped from camp to skin the rabbits. When he returned the water was boiling.

He pulled the pot from the fire and added the tea leaves then left it to steep while he set up a spit over the fire to cook their breakfast. Once the meat was cooking he turned the demigod's things over, moving them to further their drying. When these tasks were done he took a seat near the fire, a mug of tea in his hands and proceeded to turn the spit so the rabbits wouldn't burn.

Digging in a pack he produced a leather bag of salt to season the cooking meat. He could eat rabbit without salt, but he much preferred it with the sodium ground from salt deposits found in the earth or taken from drying pools of sea water.

Near their hidden cabin in the forest the empath had found a long narrow slit in a rocky cliff face that sparked thickly with salt crystals. She seemed to have a knack for finding the treasures of her earth mother, whether they be of monetary value or of survival value.

He returned the salt to the pack and took out another pouch to sprinkle some of its greenish brown flakes over the meat. The empath's spices tickled his nose with a tantalizing aroma and his stomach growled with anticipation.

Turning his friend's things once more he stood watching the empath where she lay still sleeping in her blankets. Her hair fell around her in a shimmering shower of silver-gold that sparkled in the strengthening sunlight. Her skin, pale despite her life in the outdoors, shown with a healthy glow. Her full lips, naturally pink, were parted slightly in her sleep as if in invitation and the golden one shivered as his mind thought of the possibilities that invitation could bring.

With a smile lighting his face he had to fight the impulse to whistle as he returned to the cooking meat.

The rabbits were ready before the half god rose from his blanket to make a quick dash into the woods. He wore only the woven moss trousers he'd put on after his impromptu bath in the brook the night before. His feet crunched on the frozen ground and he cursed the weather for betraying him now when his active mind and masculinity had left him to fall prey to the Dea's mind and thus thrust him into this chilling situation.

Once back to camp he pulled his cloak around his shoulders and pulled leather moccasins over his feet. He turned his clothing on the leather clothes line his friend had rigged up then sent a sheepish smile at the hunter.

"Thanks for drying my things."

"No trouble. I was a little surprised to find them on the brush near the brook. Are you often given to taking midnight baths?"

"Not as a rule. But you know me, Mister Spontaneous."

"Ah, right. Want some tea?"

"As much as I can get."

The golden one handed him a mug of the strong dark brown liquid left unsweetened like the half god liked it. The big man took a seat near the fire, and setting the tea aside pulled the cloak tighter around his shoulders before taking up the mug to warm his hands with as much as to drink it. After a moment he took a sip. It was made strong and he savored the scent of the steam that engulfed his nose as he sipped at it.

"This is good. Thanks, Iolaus."

The hunter handed him a plate of rabbit. "Well, try that on for size, big guy. There's plenty of it, too. The little furries were out in force last night despite the cold."

"Good, I'm starving." He took a thoughtful bite and chewed in satisfaction for a moment. A quick swallow of tea washed the meat down and he settled himself more comfortably on the log he'd chosen for a seat. "Is Sira all right? She's usually the first up."

"I think this is kind of a mini healing sleep. I've noticed she sleeps a little sounder at times than others. I hope that's the case, anyway. She's really taking this Ares thing hard."

"I know. The truth is, I miss him, myself."

The hunter looked up to raise his eyebrows at his friend. "I never thought I'd hear you say that, or that I'd feel the same way. I wonder just how nasty he's going to be now that he's back in power."

"He didn't seem too monstrous yesterday."

"Yeah, but it's early times. Still, remember how he helped Sira when she was convinced I'd died?"

"Yes. I really saw the first changes in him in Acubus when he'd set up that mess to try and manipulate Xena. The truth is, I never thought there was any more to him than hate and evil. It was seeing his true feelings for Xena that began to change my view."

"Isn't it odd how we all three seem to be drawn to the same women?"

The half god smiled. "I don't think it's odd at all. We're all drawn to the strength and power of our own kind; a warrior."

The hunter saluted with his mug of tea. "Here's to the female warriors of the world who stir our blood and our loins."

The half god chuckled then took up his own mug of tea. "Here, here." He took a drink to seal the toast. "Well said, my friend."

"Thank you, thank you." The hunter rose to bow deeply.

"You, my golden friend, are a ham."

Iolaus put a hand to his heart. "Alas, I confess, 'tis true." He gave a sweeping bow, his arm outstretched in an ark of condescension.

The half god laughed. "Sometimes I wonder what Sira sees in you, with all your foolishness."

"She's overwhelmed by my attributes."

"Is that it? Do you suppose that's why she loves Ares and myself, as well?"

"Of course. What else?"

They found a game trail that led in the direction they wished to go. It offered them an easy track and they took it. Their plan was to stay the night at the cave they'd used their first night out. There was no water there but they would find water before reaching the cave and could fill their flasks and the water skin, then.

The day had turned pleasant despite the cold start, but the night promised to be another story. The cave would help hold in the heat of their fire and make sleeping much more comfortable.

Midday found them stopped in a meadow of late summer grass still slightly green from the moisture the thickly rooted sod held below its surface. They didn't bother with a fire, staying only long enough to slake their hunger with rabbit left from their first meal of the day.

They filled the water skin and their two remaining flasks then moved on in the direction of the cave. They followed no trail through the rocky foothills, but none was needed and they made good time.

It was early yet when they came to the cave, but they stopped any way. There was no real hurry to return to the yosemin village other than the demigod's anxious longing to be with the Dea and the empath's need to feel the embrace of her family.

The men gathered wood while Sira started the fire and put water on to boil for tea. The hunter dropped his first load of wood beside the fire then stopped to kiss the healer's head as she knelt by the growing blaze. She looked up to smile at him.

"Feeling better, my soul?" His words were tender and loving, and the forest child drew a breath of contentment.

"Yes. I feel at peace."

"That's my girl. Tomorrow we'll be with our son."

"Yes, and there will be many days to get to know him again."

"It's hard to believe he's grown up so fast. It seems like yesterday he was just a baby."

"It was. He has grown and matured quickly even by yosemin standards. It will be good to get to know him better."

The golden one took up his long bow. "I guess it's up to me to provide us with dinner."

"And you hate doing it so badly."

"You know it. Hunting is such a chore." A playful smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.

"It is the price you pay for being the best."

"You're right," he sighed.

"Perhaps you would rather gather wood or cook the meal. I could do the hunting."

With a playful wave of his hand he headed out of camp. "No, no, that's all right. I'll do my share."

The girl sent her mind to tease the hunter further. With a light step he made his way to a thick stand of brush. In searching for wood he'd found the grove of small trees and brush and seen the advantage in it at once. He made himself comfortable, prepared to wait for a chance at some game. He wasn't kept waiting long.

Midday found the travelers stopped near a deep spring bubbling up from the ground to spill over a rocky basin and down a slight incline before disappearing in a jumble of rocks. They filled the water skin and their flasks. Then the pot for tea. While the men did the cooking Sira slipped from her clothing to bathe in the liquid offering of her mother.

It was early evening when they approached the yosemin village. Hercus and Dasay met them in the meadow outside the tall stand of trees they must pass through to enter the clearing around the village.

The half god dropped his pack to rush forward. Grabbing the Dea up in a tight embrace he swung her around. "By the gods, I've missed you."

"I have missed you also." The girl slipped her arms around the big man's middle and he cringed. "You are hurt."

"It's nothing. Just some bruised ribs."

An impish light came into her eyes. "I can heal it for you."

"I was in hopes you'd say that."

The half yosemin son of the empath smiled at his mother. "She has been a nervous wreck since you left."

The mother hugged the boy so little in stature and years and so old in intelligence and demeanor. "So you know of your uncle's love for her and her love for him?"

"Yes. She needed someone to talk to, and sensing her feelings for Uncle Hercules I offered her that."

"You are a healer, my son, and I am very proud of you."

"I think it is wonderful that they have found each other."

"Yes, as do I. I wonder, however, if others will feel the same."

"I know that Grandfather Thysis does."

"So does your father."

"You are asking me to not speak of this with others, are you not?"

"Yes. At least for now."

The boy smiled. "You can trust me, my mother." She hugged him again, then walking between her and his father they approached the lovers as they stood kissing in the grass.

The half god broke off the kiss to give them a wide smile. His nervousness of the last two days was gone from his touch on the empath's mind.

Sira hugged the Dea as the demigod grabbed up Hercus to toss him into the air. "Damn, it's good to be back." He caught the boy with little effort then passed him to his father.

The hunter hugged his son then set him on the grass. Hercus wore a grave look. "Grandfather Thysis has requested that I give the welcome of clan to you and grant his son Hercules permission to enter the village. In the name of the earth I do so."

"In the name of the earth we accept your invitation to add our earthly gifts to this gathering of her people." Sira was just as grave as her son.

"Thank you, my nephew, for granting the earth's grace to me and for allowing me to enter the village."

Now Hercus smiled at his uncle of the soul. "Spoken like a true yosemin."

The five of them entered the clearing around the village to be met with hails and calls of friendship.

The former executioner and the son of Ares came to meet them, standing a little apart from the others, the boy's hand in his mother's. The son of Zeus stopped before them to kneel before the boy. He searched his face a moment then offered his arms.

Evander very gravely took the offered hug. "Where is my father?"

"He has an important job to do that means he can't always be here with you. But don't worry, he'll come to see you soon."

"I miss him."

Hercules looked up to study the mother's face. "I know, I miss him too." Nemesis sighed and the demigod rose to hug her.

"Hercus told me you would soon be arriving and I have food ready at the hut. Thysis is waiting there for us."

Sira turned to the Dea. "Will you join us, my sister?"

"Perhaps not tonight. I should get back to the hall." The empath read the girl's mind. She feared her love for Hercules would be discovered. She'd been bold of late with her show of affection toward the demigod.

"I understand, my sister. Go with the earth."

The dark haired yosemin girl shot a look of longing toward the big man, then squaring her shoulders she left them to make her way toward the healer's hall.

The night was past, the morning just waiting for the sun to announce its presence when the half god left the Dea at the back entrance to the healer's hall. As before, he waited in the woods to be sure she was safely in her room before making his way to the hut where the others slept.

A place for him and been left near the fire, his own blankets and cloak left over a thick mat covered with a brightly colored woven moss sheet.

He stirred up the fire and pushed the teapot toward the coals to heat. The pot was full and he suspected the empath had seen to its being there, ready for him should he need it.

Taking up his things he made a trip to the river to bathe. The water was too cold to tarry and the tea awaited him. Slipping a freshly laundered pair of woven moss trousers on and nothing else he returned to the hut.

Taking a mug of tea with him he went to his bed. He'd slept part of the night, the Dea in his arms, but he hoped to get a little more sleep before he must start the day.

They'd made love in the thick forest near the river, then moving further away from the village the half god had made a fire for them. They'd talked for a time before making love again then falling asleep, the fire and their love the only protection from the cold.

First order of business is to talk with Thysis, the half god told himself. He'd made a decision during the conversation with the apprentice healer. He had no intention of waiting to carry out his plan.

He yawned sleepily, then yawned again. Finishing his tea he rolled in his blankets to fall asleep almost at once.

He woke to silence in the hut, and not really ready to meet the day closed his eyes tighter. A moment later he opened them to look around him. The others were gone, leaving him to sleep. He rolled over and made himself more comfortable, meaning to take advantage of the chance to sleep a little longer. The sun shown through the window and after a moment he found it annoying. With a sigh he gave up and sat up. Food had been set out for him on the table then covered with a cloth to keep the flies out.

Fresh water waited for him in a bucket by the wash stand. "I must have slept longer than I thought."

He dressed quickly, then taking a seat at the table he ate the cold venison, bread, and cheese that awaited him. There were apples arranged in a pottery bowl on the table and he ate one of these to finish the meal.

A whistle on his lips he left the hut. Thysis first, he reminded himself. Using his mind he searched for the man he called father then headed toward his hut.

The elder and the golden hunter sat at the wooden table outside the hut. They were engaged in a game of chips.

The hunter looked up to smile at him. "Get some sleep?"

"Yes. In fact, I feel pretty good."

The golden one laughed. "I'll bet you do."

The half god waited until the game was completed then requested a moment of the elder's time.

"That's okay." Iolaus stood. "I promised Sira we'd walk by the river and I've kept her waiting long enough."

Thysis motioned Hercules to the bench the hunter had just vacated. "The real truth is, he is losing and was looking for an excuse to get out of the game."

The hunter laughed. "Darn, he's on to me." With a wave the golden hunter of the forest left his friend and the man he thought of as father to go in search of the empath.

The half god took the offered bench as the elder set up the next game of chips. "Shall we?"

"Beating Iolaus wasn't enough?"

"No. Now I have the desire to beat one of godly blood."

The big man laughed. "We'll see who wins." They played in silence for a moment. "Father, there's something I wished to discuss with you."

"Yes, my son?"

"I would like to ask permission of you and the earth to allow me to become a member of the clan of the wolf and the lion."

The elder had been ready to make a move with the chips but stopped now to study the half god's face. "You understand that if you ask this and I grant it, you will be pledging yourself to the clan. You must be prepared to offer your mind and your godly strength to the interests of the people you wish to call your own."

"I understand that, my father. In my mind and in my heart I have already taken this step. Now if I am to be able to visit here to see Dasay I must at least have some kind of clan standing. But even more than this, I wish to do this for Sira. I wish to make a public show of my love for her and her beliefs."

"I have long thought of you as my son. From that first moment I approached you in the village left devastated by the sorceress, I knew there would be something more than friendship between us. Your taking of the vow of clan would make you truly my son. I am most pleased.

"Tonight is to be the celebration of the healing. It was necessary to postpone it since the one to be healed had an important mission that could not wait. But now there will be a celebration in Sira's honor. Tonight, before the village you must ask me for the honor of the clan."

"Is there something special I must say? I want to do this right."

"Yes, this must be handled properly and with dignity. There are those of this village who hold some power who might not wish to see your request granted. Not that they could refuse it. Only I as the elder of the clan could do this. Still, you will want the approval of the village so that your visits here will be welcomed." The old one stood. "Would you come with me, my son? I think perhaps talking with some of the other elders is in order."

"I wasn't aware that there would be such a problem in my request."

"There may not be. There is a good chance I am being overly cautious. The village and the elders have openly welcomed Hercus and myself into their midst."

The people worked quickly to gather the things needed to make the celebration festive. A permanent platform near the center of the central clearing was made ready with chairs placed there for those of honor. In the middle was a chair for Fahr as the village leader. Beside it was a chair for Melay as the healing mother. Thysis was also honored, more for his clan standing in the original clan as for any reason.

Sira, as the healer would be given a place on the platform and the Dea would be beside her for her help in the healing and because she was next to be the healing mother once Melay stepped down. There was a place for Ares also as the one healed, even though no one really expected him to be there.

A large fire was started in the central clearing. Tables laden with food were set up. Barrels of fermented fruit juice were opened.

On the platform with the chairs was the dais that held the book of clan. Tonight the empath would open the seal on the book so that the scholars of the village could study its writings.

As evening approached, the empath went to the river to bathe. When she returned to the village she wore a long dress of woven moss, bleached with lye to almost white. It fit tightly around the bodice then flared from her tiny waist in varying lengths of gauzy cloth. A light blue cord tied at the waist then crossed in an X over the bodice to tie in back. She'd braided her hair then wound the braids over her head. A thin white vale covered the hair to hang down her back. The vale and her braids were held in place with two polished sticks.

Her feet were bare, adding an innocent look to her that caught the eyes and earned her several warm smiles. The hunter looked up from the table he was helping Nemesis with to see the empath walking toward him. He took a quick breath. The waning sun seemed to shine directly on her, adding a softness to her beauty that made her look younger than she usually did. Her figure was highlighted by the dress, but not glaringly so. He took a step from around the table to take the girl's hand. He said nothing, but his look said much, and the healer judged her appearance to be acceptable.

She'd been apprehensive about taking the dress from Dasay. It was the ritual dress of a healer, kept for just these occasions, and therefore it was the proper attire for the festival.

She'd not hesitated in accepting the dress for this reason; it was more that she still felt out of place here in the village. The ritual dress of a healer was supposed to be made by the apprentice, herself, not borrowed from another. Still, wearing it wasn't a breach of proper procedure and the chosen one knew the villagers would expect to see her in a ritual dress. Her apprehension came from the fact that this was no longer her life. She'd feared that by coming here she would find herself wanting to return to her old way of life. Now she knew this was no longer for her, and to pretend otherwise went against her way.

As if reading her thoughts the healing mother came to stand before her. "You look lovely, my daughter. Do not look so nervous. You have every right to wear the dress. Whether you choose to stay in our little hamlet as the healing mother or choose to follow the earth where she leads you next, you will always be the chosen one, and therefore you have earned the right to your finery."

Sira leaned forward to kiss her cheek. "Thank you, my mother. I feel much better about this. I pray the earth will look favorably upon me tonight and grant me her grace in opening the book of clan."

"Of course she will. You are her chosen one."

The villagers danced around the large bonfire in the center of the village. The usually quiet people of the earth seldom celebrated in this way, but the celebration of healing was one time they allowed themselves to taste the euphoria of the wine and exhibit their natural rhythm and gaiety.

Music and song were always a part of the earth's people, but the singing and the music was usually done in hushed tones. Not so tonight.

As there came a lull in the music the half god straightened his shoulders and approached the raised platform. He was nervous now that the time had come to carry out the plans he'd made in the woods near the river. He realized with a rush that this was very important to him.

What he'd told Thysis was true. He'd long ago sworn his allegiance to the earth, though no formal pledge had been voiced. He'd accepted the earth into his heart the day he admitted to himself that he loved the empath more as a lover than a sister. Now there was also his love for the Dea. It, too, needed validity, and doing this would help to give it that.

Thysis rose to look down on the demigod he called son. Raising his hands to silence the people he looked back to the half god towering above the others near him.

The half god bowed to the elder then to either side of him to include the others on the platform in his homage. Going to one knee he lowered his head. "Honored elders of the village. Honored father of the clan of the wolf and the lion. In the name of the earth I request permission to claim this ancient clan and its protection as my own."

Sira jumped to her feet, tears showing instantly in her dark green eyes. The Dea gasped. An audible drawing of breath from many throats could be heard in the clearing. Now the silence was felt as well as heard.

"You have other alliances?"

"No, my father. My only alliance is to the earth and to the clan I hold dear."

"You make this request in the name of the earth?"

"Yes, in the name of the earth and in the name of my more than sister."

"And who might this sister be that she should command such reverence?"

"She is Sira, granddaughter of Questa, of the clan of the wolf and the lion, and the last known empath to the yosemin people."

Melay swelled with pride at the demigod's words. I coached him well, she congratulated herself.

"Well spoken, my son. In the name of the earth rise and accept your commission to the clan. Our people will be enriched by your alliance to us. As a warrior we claim you as a protector of the people. Rise, warrior. Rise and greet your father."

Fahr stepped forward. "Wait, Thysis. Would it not be prudent to deliberate on this? Hercules is, after all, an outsider."

"No, elder leader, he is not an outsider. He has long been in my heart as a son, and his love for the empath is visible for all to see."

"Still, to accept an outsider into the clan only diminishes its strength."

"I, myself, am an outsider, Fahr. I have been most open and honest about my past and the fact that I was shunned by the earth's people at one time. I gave up all right to my clan and people that fateful day I walked away, not to return until the empath opened my mind, my heart, and my soul. She accepted me into her clan and named me elder. I, too, am an outsider. I do not believe the outside influence has diminished the clan in my case nor in the case of the hunter. Nor will it be diminished in the warrior."

"You should have come to me first, Thysis."

"I have spoken to others of the council. They made no objection."

"But I am the leader of this village, and therefore its safety is my concern."

"Then welcome a warrior well known even among the earth's people for his willingness to risk his own safety to protect others."

"I still object to this."

"You go too far. Hercules has requested permission from me, as the elder of the clan of the wolf and the lion, to join the clan. I alone have the final say in this. If the presence of outsiders so offends you, we shall remedy that straight away."

The healing mother stepped forward. "Come, my friends. This has taken a sour turn that only spoils this joyous occasion. Fahr, you must apologize to Thysis. His worth here in the village is too great to be lost to your wounded pride. Perhaps he should have consulted you before granting his son clan status. Then again, he is well within his rights to do this with no one's permission but the permission of his own heart and of the earth. If you but tried you would feel the earth in the one called Hercules. No matter his parentage, he is of the earth as surely as the sun will rise.

Fahr narrowed his eyes at the healing elder. "Very well. I had no wish to alienate Thysis from our midst. His help in the days to come will be, I suspect, invaluable."

"You speak of the book of clan. Yes, he alone of our village still reads and understands the ancient writing of our ancestors. At least with anything resembling fluency." The healing mother turned to the half god. "Welcome, my son. You are truly yosemin."

Fahr did nothing to hide his annoyance at the healing elder's words, but with a sigh of resignation he returned to his seat on the platform.

Thysis took the half god's hand to pull him up the steps and onto the wooden stage. "My son," he intoned to the people. Then turning to the half god he embraced him.

The half god did nothing to hide the tears in his eyes. Sira stepped forward, her hand to her breast as she fought for breath. The stain of tears on her cheeks shown red in the firelight.

"My more than sister."

A sob escaped her and she went into his arms. "You are my soul. We are truly one."

The Dea came forward to stand shyly by. The half god turned to smile at her. "My brother. As sister to the empath, who is my sister in soul, we are now one." The girl bowed to him. "Warrior of the clan of the wolf and the lion, I am proud to touch in soul with you."

He took her hand to kiss it. He wanted to take her into his arms and publicly announce his love for her, but knew this would be doing her no favor. He turned to the people. "My people. Dance and celebrate the healing and my good fortune."

His words were met with a cheer and the music began again. The hunter offered his arm to his more than friend who took it in a firm warrior's grasp. "Welcome, my brother. The clan and the people are enriched by your alliance to us."

"Yeah, well, you should have told me you'd become a member of the clan."

"It just never came up, I guess."

The half god laughed and pulled the hunter to him for a quick embrace. "Now we really are family."

"We always have been."

The feasting was over, the fire burning down. The people had been called to order before the platform. Sira, standing entranced before the book of clan swayed slightly as she prayed to the earth. She must know in her heart that this was for her. A peace seeped through her to comfort her. With a deep breath she opened her eyes and reached with shaking hands to open the seal on the ancient leather book.

As her hand touched the seal she stopped. Her son's name reverberated through her mind.

Hercus. Over and over again, his name came to her.

She removed her hands from the book and waited. After a moment she reached to it again.

Hercus. Again her son's name came to her. She turned to her chosen father, a look of uncertainty on her face.

He came forward to take her hands. Closing his eyes he was entranced within moments. Opening his eyes he nodded to the empath.

Again she reached to break the seal. As twice before her son's name filled her mind.

The elder looked genuinely surprised. "Sira?"

"I know, my father. I feel it also. It is him the earth wishes to be her messenger."

"We must be sure." He closed his eyes again. The others watched them in wonder, not sure why the empath hesitated.

Hercus, in a bold move stepped up on the platform. Fahr stepped forward to stop him, but the hunter jumped to the platform in one smooth movement to lay a hand on the elder's arm. The village leader turned an angry face to the golden one who only shook his head.

Fahr made to pull away and the hunter's grip tightened. "I wouldn't."

Sira and Thysis looked to the half yosemin boy. His mother searched his eyes, then with a nod she stepped back. She knew her son had heard the summons even louder than she had.

The yosemin people gasped. The quiet clearing was filled with tones of wonder and disbelief. Could they really mean to allow the boy to open the book?

The boy bowed his head in prayer for a moment. Then with hands that shook he unlatched the metal clasp and broke the seal on the book. He didn't open it, however. Instead he bowed to his grandfather. Thysis stepped forward to open the book. After a moment he looked up to search the faces of the crowd through eyes that swam with tears. At a nod from him many prayers were given.

Sira looked over her father's shoulder at the ancient picture writing of her people faded but still legible on the suede pages.

Before the Before, the earth was formed. And her face was of such beauty that the sky wept to behold her.

Sira drew a quick breath. In wonder she looked to her son. The one the earth had chosen to open the sacred book of her teachings.

"I am most proud of you, my son."

"It truly is the book of clan, is it not my mother?"

"It is indeed, my son. Now it has come home to the people. Let us rejoice."

The half god walked hand in hand with the Dea, their minds touching in a loving embrace.

The girl sighed. "When do you leave to go to your brother's?"

"In a few days."

"I will miss you."

"I won't be gone long. They don't need me to deliver a baby."

"You will return here?"

"Of course."

"I was most pleased when you took the clan alliance."

"It means I can come and go when and if I choose."

"Yes. It adds much to our love, as well."

"What would happen now if your people found out how we feel about each other?"

"I could still be punished. It is wrong to lie in lust with you when no words have been spoken between us. Even if we were to take the vow of promise we are not supposed to make love together, although many do not agree with this and find nothing wrong in expressing their feelings of love in a physical way with the commitment of promise between them. The real problem lies in the fact that I am the Dea. I am supposed to be above all this. I am supposed to devote my life to the art of healing until my mate of the soul is found or until my seed is needed to bring strong minded children into the world."

"What if you had these strong minded children then found your mate of the soul?"

"I would be expected to stay with the father of my children unless he willingly released me or if we all three agreed to share a physical relationship in the interest of producing more children."

"But the yosemin women only have one or two children in their lifetime anyway."

"With one mate that is usually the case. It seems that with the infusion of new blood a yosemin woman can again conceive."

"Oh. That I didn't know."

"I understand it is quite different with humans."

"Yes, quite."

"You were married once?"

The demigod turned to her. "Yes. I was married to a wonderful woman that I loved very deeply. We had three wonderful children together. They were taken from me by hate and evil."

The girl laid a hand on his arm. "I am sorry."

"I loved another, and we, too, were married. She was also taken from me."

"I understand now, my love. You are wise to wait to make a real commitment with me."

"I don't mean to frighten you. I no longer believe those I love are in danger. Sira has broken that cycle."

"I was not frightened. I meant only that you must be sure in your heart and soul. I love you and you love me, but you are not yet ready to make a lasting commitment to me, especially when your feelings for the empath run so deeply."

He sighed. I'm sorry, Dasay. I do love you."

"I know that. You have no reason to be sorry. I am content with what we have. It suits us both at least for the moment. And who can tell the future?"

It was morning when the demigod returned to the hut. He'd left the Dea much earlier since she feared for her discovery if she was left sleepless too many nights in a row. After leaving her he'd walked along the river. Until he'd spoken with the girl of his feelings for his family and the two women he'd married, he hadn't realized the restraint he felt on his emotions. Dasay had been right. He'd made a commitment with Sira that went way beyond love and he simply wasn't ready to commit himself to another.

He couldn't help but feel he betrayed the apprentice healer, but somehow he knew he was helpless to change his need for her. Maybe this was all there would ever be between them. Was it wrong to accept this and expect her to as well? He had no answers to this.

When he entered the hut the empath looked up from the fire to smile at him. "Welcome, my clan brother."

He smiled at her as he accepted the mug of tea she offered. She took a bundle from her pocket and handed it to him.

"What's this?"

"As a member of the clan of the wolf and the lion I give you a stone that we have claimed as our own."

The stone was gray, shot with streaks of red. It had been carved into a tiny figure. On one end was a wolf's head and on the other end was the head of a lion. A thin gold wire was wrapped around the stone to make a loop at the top. A leather cord was laced through the loop.

The son of Zeus looked to the healer. "It's beautiful, my more than sister."

"With it you may claim your clan rights and no one can deny you."

He slipped the cord over his head. The empath reached up to touch the amulet where it rested against his chest.

"Brother and more of my soul, with this symbol of your pledge to the earth you are truly of the earth. Our people were here before the legends. And with the earth's protection and yours they will be here when remembered time is past. You are now of a great family. Your ancestors were makers of the myths and legends. You honor them and the earth."

The amulet had become almost unbearably hot under the earth child's fingers. The blessing she gave had touched the big man's heart. He touched the girl's cheek with a knuckle and she smiled up at him.

"When we leave will the Dea see us off?"

He knew why she'd asked. She'd read his mind as she so often did. "No, my sister, she is not up to that, I think." No words passed between them but the empath understood. What he'd discovered last night in the forest with the girl he was only beginning to know came to the earth's chosen one.

"There is time yet, my brother. Good byes are hard."

He knew what she meant was that being separated from the Dea might change his mind about his feelings for her.

"Yes, saying good bye is hard. For now we're both content to have things as they are. I will ask for nothing more and let my heart guide me."

"I am glad, my more than brother. She is a wonderful girl. I worried that you would walk away from her completely."

"No, that I can't do." He smiled at her. "So, does this mean you won't worry so much about my heart?"

"No. I will always worry about your heart."

"Somehow I knew that would be your answer, since you always worry about the hearts of gods and men."

Coming Soon: A Mother's Instinct. The Ninth Adventure In The Empath Chronicles.

Comments and kind criticism are always welcome. E-mail me at danno@ jps.net