Tension and exhaustion crept into Gabrielle’s voice. "Is everything pretty to you today?"

Xena bristled at Gabrielle’s tone, and decided that silence was better. Xena’s eyes focused on the road, while her mind focused on her bard. *We need to talk, and soon.* She took a quick glance at Gabrielle. *You are trying to shut everything out, but I won’t let that happen.*

Up ahead, Xena noticed a lone figure dressed in black leathers, with silver adornment on the shoulders and the waist running towards them. *Thanks the gods, it’s a friendly face.*

Gabrielle was lost in her thoughts. The nightmare had invaded the day. She could see him coming toward her. She wanted to run, but fear froze her body. Even if she could run, there was no place to hide. He would have found her, and his wrath would have been worse.

The lone figure stood in front of the horses, and waved at Xena before addressing Gabrielle. "Gabrielle…" Before anyone could blink Gabrielle had pulled out a sai and flung it straight at the figure. Sophia caught the sai right before the blade entered her chest.

Xena looked at Gabrielle with shock. "Gabrielle what is wrong with you!"

Sophia reached out and touched Xena, and shook her head no. She then walked over to Gabrielle, and gently but quickly pulled Gabrielle off the saddle. Gabrielle started to struggle and scream. "Its all right, Gabrielle. It’s me Sophia. Everything is going to be all right." Sophia pulled her into a hug and gently caressed Gabrielle’s head. Gabrielle scream lessened into sobs. Sophia continued comforting a confused and grief-stricken Gabrielle.

Xena jumped down from Argo, and watched as Sophia tried to reach Gabrielle. *She’s in so much pain. By the gods, I feel so helpless.*

"Sophia?"

"Yes, it’s me. Everything will be all right."

"By the gods, I’m so sorry. I thought…"

"I know what you thought. Hush, it’s alright. I promise you, he won’t hurt you again." Gabrielle’s sobs softened as Sophia continued to comfort her. "Hey, you’re getting pretty good with these things." Sophia’s bad attempt at lightening the mood and changing the subject was wasted. She looked at Xena and motioned Xena to take Gabrielle. Xena embraced Gabrielle as she sighed.