six paces in each direction, back and forth. They traveled the path together, the warrior and the Queen. Gabrielle had her arm looped through Xena?s as they waited for word. Gabrielle looked into her warrior?s blue eyes. The seasons that had past were starting to fade them, but they still captivated her very soul. "It?s hard to believe. Both Cyrene and Ephiny bonded now, and our first grandchild?" She trailed off, tears forming in her eyes. "We?ve been truly blessed." Xena cupped her bond mate?s face and kissed her gently and whispered in her ear, "I always have been. From the first day I laid eyes on you." They traveled the path together, back and forth. Back and forth, about six paces in each direction, back and forth. Cyrene and Ephiny watched their mother continue as she had done for hours. Even the playful giggling of four granddaughters? couldn?t seem to bring her any pleasure. They watched, as she would pause only long enough to stare at the door of the hut. Waiting for word from the healer. When the door finally opened the healer motioned for her to come in. She sprinted inside and the door was closed behind her. Cyrene and Ephiny just looked at each other and took comfort from their own mates. After about a candle mark, the door opened. The warrior stepped out, drew a deep breath and motioned for her daughter?s. Cyrene and Ephiny moved to their mother. There were tears in her blue