“c72″> 

The front
line was formed by close to fifteen kneeling hostages, tied
together by bits of rough rope. Behind them was a tall dark haired
man, hands bound in front of him but standing. ‘Damn, what by
Ares’ boots was he doing in “c72″>Greece?’ The
soldiers were lined up in a basic battle formation obviously
expecting a frontal assault. Xena’s trained and experienced
eyes didn’t miss out on the ill-kept armour and weapons, the
difficulty they had to hold their lines or the crest floating in
front of them.

“c72″> 

“c72″>"Darphus," Xena’s voice was barely
audible with repressed anger and Melosa shot her an inquisitive
look. "Some years ago he was one of my lieutenants. We still
have some personal issues to settle. He’s over-confident,
impatient, and he hates me more than everything. We will need Hades
of a distraction to keep him from killing the hostages, and we will
need time."

“c72″> 

“c72″> 

“c72″>-x-x-x-x-

“c72″> 

“c72″> 

The
brass armoured
warrior once again did what came
natural to her, standing at the edge of the forest, in full view of
the enemy army, she took control of the situation. Soon the greater
part of the Amazons was on their way and the five soldiers of the
First Order able to fight also had their orders. All Melosa and
half of the royal guard could do now was to wait for their enemy to
take action.

“c72″> 

The
last time Xena felt as anxious as this about waiting was right
before the battle against Caesar. Finally, a child, about six or
seven years old, began to make its way towards the line of trees
carrying a crumbled piece of parchment. It was a boy with dark
blond hair and blue eyes. He stood about ten paces away from the
forest line where the Queen was waiting, so Xena left
Melosa’s side and knelt in front of the
boy.

“c72″> 

“c72″>"Hello, Ly. Come with me, I will lead you to
safety."

“c72″> 

"No,
the evil one will kill my dad, he said so. He said: 'Answer
before noon
or else…' He said:
'Bring back the answer or our father will die.' Only dad
calls me Ly, how come?”

“c72″> 

“c72″>"Long ago your dad and I were very close, so I
know this name is dear to his heart. Stay here, I’ll be back
shortly and escort you back to your dad." Xena added having
read Darphus’ message. She handed it to Queen Melosa and
began to take off her armour.