Earning the Right
by Arianna and MaryE

Note: Story follows on 'For the First Time' by Arianna

**

Alcmene hugged both of them warmly as they prepared to take their leave to return to the Academy. It had been a wonderful Solstice holiday and she thought that she had never seen the two of them so completely happy. As she stood in her doorway and watched them stride over the fields toward the shortcut south through the forested hills, she smiled pensively.

They were so young, Hercules, her son, and Iolaus, the son of her heart, so young and full of hope, so joyful in their innocence. Swallowing, she reflected with a catch in her heart how they'd thought they could fool her, could hide the change between them. But the love that radiated from their beautiful faces whenever they either looked at or spoke of the other, the warmth in their voices, and the way they touched with gentle fondness, could not be hidden from someone who also loved them with all her heart. She wondered if they would ever be comfortable telling her, and regretted that they hesitated, perhaps thinking she might not approve. If that was their fear, they were sorely mistaken.

Tears glistened in Alcmene's eyes as she waved when they turned back before disappearing into the wood to wave at her. Gods, she loved them and nothing could have made her happier than knowing their relationship was maturing and deepening from a childhood friendship into something more profound, a life commitment to one another forged with love.

For Alcmene, who had met an older, very brave and courageous warrior before her son had even been born, would always in her mind think of Iolaus as erastes, a seasoned warrior who legitimately had the right to claim a younger warrior as his eromenos, his beloved one. In her mind, Hercules had always belonged in some ways to Iolaus, for Hercules had only been born because he had already been beloved and protected by Iolaus. But, she'd respect their privacy and play the game of ignorance if that was what they wanted... after all, even now, they did not themselves know how very right their relationship was...how well it had been earned.

**

The two young cadets were not long under the sheltering shadows of the forest before they turned to reach for one another, intoxicated with passion and desire. Beyond their capacity to express with words, they felt a yearning toward one another, something deeper than the lust that heated their bodies and inflamed their emotions. The poignant ache within, of a soul desperate to be united with its twin, to be fulfilled by giving, and receiving, love in the fullest sense, needed the solace of touch. The warmth of a kiss, by turn gentle then demanding, the strength of an embrace that cherished and reaffirmed...the union of two bodies merging into a single whole, undivided, ecstatic, ennobled by the sweetness and power of their love.

"Oh gods, Herc," Iolaus whispered huskily into his lover's throat, his voice catching with emotion, "you are everything to me. Whatever you want, whatever you need...I am yours, always and forever...I swear it to you."

Hercules took a deep breath as he luxuriated in the feeling of Iolaus in his arms, and the warmth of body and spirit of still being locked together, his body deep in his lover's embrace. Nuzzling Iolaus' golden curls, he drank in the clean scents of Iolaus' body, of the musk of their love, of the grass and clover and of pine. He felt a peace that he only knew in these moments, a completion of being, a longing for this to last for all time. "All I need is your love, Iolaus," he whispered back as he shifted to kiss his lover deeply, his tongue matching the slow thrust of his hips as he affirmed their joining, wanting more, wanting it again, deep and hot, hard and breathless.

Iolaus moaned in his throat as he matched Hercules' thrusts with his own, his arms and legs wrapped tightly around the demigod's body, desperate to be filled. Passion throbbed within them, the excitement again mounting as desire burned hot and built to inflame them. Iolaus arced against Hercules, his own erection hard between them, as they pumped into and against one another, all coherence of thought lost in the purity of the sensations spiraling up and ever upward, higher and higher, exquisite and shattering with their power. Their lips and bodies locked together, their tongues dancing with one another, they cried out into each other's mouths as they peaked together with a blinding and overwhelming joy.

And then they sank into one another, gasping and replete.

"IloveyouIloveyouIloveyou," Iolaus chanted softly, tears glistening on his lashes, wishing he had better words, some more thrilling and compelling way to express what was in his heart and soul.

"Forever," Hercules sighed, as he kissed Iolaus' cheek. "Forever and always...I am yours and you are mine."

**

They were complete. They were whole. And it felt so right, so good. They might have been walking on air for all that they noticed the rigours of their journey back to the Academy. Talking and laughing, teasing, often touching as they strode through the forests, over the hills and along the coast of the isthmus into the Peloponnese. Sometimes reflective and thoughtful, they considered how best to handle this once they got back. Inherently shy and intensely private, Hercules wasn't ready to shout their relationship to the world. And, though he didn't say it, he was terribly afraid that if the gods noticed his happiness, they might try to hurt Iolaus. His sensitivity to what the other cadets thought of him, and what that might mean about what they thought of Hercules if they knew, made Iolaus wary of revealing their new relationship. So, they decided upon discretion...and only hoped it was possible, that their need for one another wouldn't be perfectly obvious to everyone.

The nights by the campfire were endless moments of tenderness and passion, as they explored one another's bodies, learning how best to give pleasure, reveling in their intimacy as each came to know the other's body as well as their own until they slept, entwined under the stars. They paused for one extra night before they reached the end of the forested domain along the rolling hills that led down to the Academy, sorry to know their idyllic privacy was at an end, jealous of every moment they could have before the world intruded again upon them. And, the next morning, just at the edge of the forest, they shared a last, long kiss before they had to break apart and stride forward as though nothing had changed between them since they had left two weeks before.

Not easy, far from it...but necessary.

**

Everything was fine for the first couple of weeks after they got back. Oh, it was hard to maintain the charade of just being childhood chums, but under the camouflage of supposedly hunting for the Academy larder, going for walks to study together, and quick, hidden clinches in the stable or in the small courtyard in the back of the Academy, they managed to endure. And, as surprising as they sometimes thought it, no one seemed to notice that anything had changed between them.

Yes, everything was just fine until the last day of the first month of the second semester...which was fondly known as 'Prank Day'. This fine day was a long standing tradition to break the monotony of a long semester without any holiday breaks, during which upperclassmen could pretty much do anything they wanted to torment younger cadets...providing there was nothing malicious involved and no one got hurt, at least not intentionally.

It was too darned good an opportunity to get a rise out of the often self-conscious and overly controlled resident demigod. Jason and his cohorts had been planning since the fall semester, considering and discarding ideas. It wasn't easy to take Hercules by surprise, and he was good-humoured enough to take just about anything they could come up with in stride...and they didn't want that.

They wanted to blow him away.

Finally, they came up with a fail-safe idea. There was no way Hercules would just brush this off...they would shake him to his boots and it would be an experience he'd never forget. Gleefully, they prepared, Anteus volunteering for the role of the 'victim-tormenter', though it was kinda gross. Daneus arranged for what they needed from a nearby farmer who was a local supplier of lamb to the village markets in the area.

The eve of 'Prank Day', a couple of the pranksters, Jason and Arcadius, cajoled Hercules, and at the demigod's insistence, Iolaus, into going with them to Kora's for dinner. While there, they slipped a sleeping potion into his drink when neither he nor Iolaus were looking. They wanted to be sure he slept well until dawn. The remaining conspirators took advantage of their absence to smuggle in the two clay jars of 'supplies' and hide them under straw in a dark corner of the stable when no one was looking. That night, just before dawn, so that it could be an official 'Prank Day' event, Jason, Anteus, Daneus, and several other upperclassmen snuck out of the barracks to the stable and silently retrieved the clay jars. Going out around the back of the stables, they levered out the cork stoppers, and poured the sticky, thick cold and congealing lambs' blood over Anteus, covering him head to toe with ghoulish abandon. Anteus wrinkled his nose, and held his breath, steeling his jaw against complaint. This was going to be SO worth it!

Like shadows, they stole back into the barracks, and Anteus moved down the long row of bunks to crawl into Hercules' bed, where he proceeded to 'play dead'. The nefarious cadet was hard pressed not to giggle uncontrollably when Hercules, more asleep than awake, noticed someone in his bed and snuggled close, murmuring Iolaus' name as he covered Anteus with a long leg and wrapped an arm around him, pulling him in close. Oblivious, lost in a blissful, only semi-aware state, Hercules nuzzled Anteus' hair, again sighing Iolaus' name.

'Now, this is a little more interesting than we'd bargained for,' Anteus thought maliciously as he fought back the urge to snicker. "The oh so righteous, 'don't touch me' Hercules has the hots for the thief. Who would have guessed?' He'd heard the snuffle of muffled laughter and snorts of amusement as others overheard Hercules' dream-state mutterings and, hanging over the edges of their bunks in anticipation saw, in the early dawn light that filtered through the windows, the way the demigod had draped himself over Anteus. This was toooo funny!

When Hercules again murmured Iolaus' name in a tone that was quite evidently ardent, the pranksters lost all control and howled with laughter, a couple even falling out of their bunks with riotous mirth. The sudden burst of noise shattered the dawn silence and startled the other still slumbering cadets into wakefulness.

Hercules jumped at the sudden noise, waking confused and disoriented from the residual effects of the drug the night before. It was a moment before the sight before his eyes came into focus and he realized it was real and not a nightmare. He was lying half over a bloody corpse, his own body smeared a sticky, smelly viscous, crimson and he shuddered in horror.

What had he done?

Oh gods, what had he done?

For the demigod, so terrified of his strength, so fearful of ever inadvertently hurting another living being, believed that somehow he'd killed this man in his sleep.

With a heartrending shriek of despair and denial, Hercules sprang away from the blood-stained body, lurching from his bunk, gagging and retching as he fell to his knees. "Oh gods, no!" he gasped, tears burning in his eyes from the shock and horror, from soul-ripping guilt and grief. "NO!"

In a heartbeat, Iolaus was crouched beside him, holding him, as he took in the sight of a gory body coming alive with gales of laughter, the other upperclassmen almost choking with their mirth at how successfully they'd played the demigod.

"Ah, poor, big, strong, Hercules," Anteus crooned sarcastically, "is wittle, runty Iolaus going to kiss it all better?"

The loud sound of smooching could be heard as the seniors mocked the two cadets clinging together at their feet.

Furious, Iolaus surged up and hauled Anteus from Hercules' bunk, tossing him roughly into the arms of his confederates. "This wasn't funny, you cretins!" he raged. "How could make Herc think he'd killed someone in his sleep? By the gods, have you no sense?"

But they only laughed louder, someone calling out, "You're just jealous that someone else was in his bunk!"

"Herc and Iolaus, sitting in a tree," someone else chimed loudly, "Big strong hero kissing the thief!"

Hearing Hercules moan with awareness behind him, Iolaus turned away from the others in disgust as he again bent to place a strong, supporting arm around his best friend's shoulders. Herc was panting, trying to get his breath and believe it was all only a joke...that he hadn't really hurt anyone.

"Easy, buddy," Iolaus murmured. "These idiots haven't got the brains Zeus gave a grasshopper. They were just fooling around."

"Us?" Anteus sneered. "From what Hercules was doing and saying in his sleep, I'd say it's the two of you who are fooling around!"

Hercules stiffened at the words. What had he done? Said? Looking up at Iolaus, he shook his head, aghast at having humiliated his best friend, however unconsciously it was done.

Seeing the look of shock and regret in Hercules' eyes, Iolaus misunderstood, thinking that Herc was ashamed that they'd found out...that everyone knew and was mocking them. "It's okay," he said, not knowing what else to say, "the morons are easily amused. Come on, let's get you cleaned up."

As he helped Hercules to his feet, there were more lip smacking noises, and when those who had been sleeping until awakened by laughter demanded to know what Hercules had said or done, others gleefully told them, complete with physical demonstrations and soulful tones.

Shaking his head as he pushed the crowd out of their way as he tried to get Hercules outside, Iolaus snarled, "Oh, grow up already."

When they finally made it outside and to the well, Iolaus winched up a bucket of water so that Hercules could wash the residue of the blood away. The small, blond cadet was stiff with fury for the way they'd terrorized Hercules. He could see how pale Herc was, how shocked by the experience and the horrific scare that he'd inadvertently hurt someone. "Damned fools," he muttered to himself.

Hercules could see that Iolaus was enraged, but he mistook the reason why. He was convinced that Iolaus was truly appalled that their relationship had been made so public...and was found to be such a source of amusement. "I'm sorry," he said quietly when he could finally speak past the lump in his throat.

Frowning, Iolaus looked up at him. "What are you sorry for? Gods, Herc...I can't believe they'd do that to you, scare you like that! It's sick!"

"Scare me?" Hercules repeated, shaking his head. "Is that why you're so mad?"

"Well, duh?" Iolaus rejoined. "Why else? I'd like to deck them all!"

Looking away, blowing out a long breath of relief, Hercules replied, "Oh...I thought...well..."

"What?" Iolaus asked, confused.

"That...that you were mad because they know...about us," Hercules stammered, blushing furiously.

"Ah, geez, Herc," Iolaus sighed as he moved forward to pull his lover into a tight hug, oblivious of the gore still clinging to the demigod's skin and clothing, "I don't care if the whole world knows...you honour me with your love. I'm just sorry if they think less of you, that's all."

Hercules accepted the hug gratefully for a long moment, and then pulled away, his hands on Iolaus' shoulders as he looked down at him. "I don't care what they think," he said with sincere intensity. "I know the manner of man you are...I'm proud of you, Iolaus, proud to be loved by you."

Iolaus quirked a crooked smile as he replied softly, "Thanks, Herc." But, then, to lighten the intensity, seeing others emerge from the barracks, he pulled away as he looked at the gore on his own clothes and said with exaggerated ruefulness, "Now we both need to clean up!"

By the time they had finished dumping buckets of water over one another, their good spirits were restored.

**

But it proved not to be so easy to get past it all. For days, uncomfortable with the teasing, Iolaus and Hercules found themselves unconsciously distancing themselves from one another...to lessen the other from being a target for malicious barbs. And, Iolaus noticed that Herc wasn't sleeping well, tossing and moaning in sleep, murmuring soft cries of horror and denial, of guilt and grief, as he dreamed again and again that he'd murdered someone in his sleep. The nightmares left the demigod pale and drawn when each morning finally came, weary as if he hadn't slept at all.

Iolaus wanted to comfort his friend, but was too conscious of the eyes that were always on them now, watching for any signs of affection. For Herc's sake, he held back, and that made him tense and angry, frustrated with the whole situation and worried about his friend.

Hercules was only too conscious of the distance Iolaus was maintaining, and thought, perhaps, his best friend and lover truly did regret the unconscious revelation of their intimacy. When others, still thinking the prank had been a complete success and, congratulating themselves that it lingered in the demigod's nightmares, gloatingly teased him in the mornings about his sleep-talking with too innocent comments like 'more pleasant dreams, Hercules?', Hercules wondered what else he was unconsciously revealing in his sleep. It didn't occur to him that it was horror and fear that they heard...he thought he was likely murmuring about his love for Iolaus, and his desperate need for his embrace.

Which meant that he was soon afraid to fall asleep at all.

Finally, in desperation, not knowing who else he could possibly talk to about all of this, Hercules reluctantly took himself to see Affestus, the senior warrior and instructor who had originally counseled the cadets on the value of having a true swordbrother, and the worth of physical love with someone whom you respected and cherished, trusted and honoured above all others.

The old warrior wasn't surprised to see Hercules appear at his office doorway, however uncertain and uncomfortable the cadet appeared to be. The staff was well aware of what had occurred, the upperclassmen and others not bothering to be discreet in their self-congratulation or mockery. Affestus had been worried about Hercules and Iolaus, seeing the tension between them, and the evidence of sleepless nights...as had the other teachers. He'd been on the verge of seeking the two cadets out, to help them sort out their feelings about what had happened, and was relieved to see that the Son of Zeus had had the courage to come to him. It would make the discussion easier on the cadet if he opened the conversation himself.

"Come in, Hercules," Affestus waved him forward. "What did you wish to see me about?"

Head down, Hercules moved into the office and sank into the chair Affestus waved him toward. Swallowing, he looked up, his eyes clouded with anxiety as he began, "I guess everyone pretty much knows what happened in the barracks the other night."

Narrowing his eyes, the teacher nodded slowly. "Yes," he replied, "your colleagues have been less than discreet, I'm sorry to say. Acting like school children, the lot of them...unprofessional and undignified. Unbecoming behaviour for warriors." He snorted disparagingly, but then continued in a milder tone, "I must say, you and Iolaus have shown a good deal more maturity than the rest of them, not to mention considerable forbearance with the nonsense."

Relaxing a little, taking in Affestus' clear acceptance of the relationship with Iolaus, the tone of favour and the compliments bestowed upon the two of them, Hercules took heart and continued with more confidence. "I'm...afraid I've embarrassed Iolaus by talking in my sleep...I didn't mean to. We...uh...we'd decided to be discreet and now...well, everyone knows...and, well, he's hardly even talking to me..."

Frowning with concern, Affestus asked gently, "Do either you or Iolaus regret the nature of your relationship?"

"NO!" Hercules protested. "At least, I don't. I'm proud of Iolaus...proud that he cares about me. And, that first morning after the prank, Iolaus said he didn't care what they knew or thought...except he was afraid that maybe they'd think less of me. He said he was honoured by my love for him."

Rubbing his chin, Affestus sighed a little as he thought about the situation. "It seems to me that the two of you may need to have a little talk. If Iolaus is worried that the teasing is hurting you, he may well be holding himself back for your sake, not out of any personal embarrassment."

Hercules sat back in the chair as he thought about that. "Yeah, that makes sense. That's something Iolaus would do for my sake."

"He's worried about his past, I suppose," Affestus murmured, perturbed. "About how the others judge him."

"Yeah," Hercules sighed dejectedly. "It's so unfair, you know? They don't understand what he had to endure or why...even I don't fully understand. But I do know that Iolaus is the most honourable, the most courageous, man I know."

"Hmm," Affestus reflected. He'd seen a lot in his long life and had learned not to judge others from superficial facts or their past, whatever it might have been. He'd seen promise in Iolaus, an enduring strength...and he'd seen the love for Hercules in the small blond cadet's eyes from the very first day he'd arrived at the Academy. Iolaus would give his life for the demigod, of that Affestus was certain. "I believe you see the truth of Iolaus' soul, Hercules...I believe you see what others miss, because of their prejudice and their ill-considered judgments," he said quietly.

Hercules nodded, grateful that Affestus also saw the worth in Iolaus, the strength of his character.

Thoughtfully, Affestus continued, "Hercules, whatever happened or happens between the two of you is between the two of you. It's no one else's business. Only the two people involved can determine the depth of their feelings for one another. In my view, this is a sacred relationship, one to be valued above all others. To honour another warrior with complete love and trust, not just platonic, but with one's whole being, is a priceless and rare gift. If this is what the two of you have found, I urge you to not allow anyone to tarnish it, demean it or discourage you from sharing it."

Straightening in his chair, Hercules thought about what the old warrior had just said. Looking up into Affestus' eyes, his own gaze now clear and untroubled, Hercules said quietly, "Thank you, sir. I'll talk with Iolaus...you're right. It's no one else's business, and it is a rare gift that he gives me, one that I'm eager to return. He means more to me than I could ever find the words to express. I'll never allow anyone to take that away from us. I appreciate your wise counsel."

"Good for you, son," Affestus replied with a smile of approval. "Good for you."

Hercules left the administrative building and went in search of Iolaus. He found his soulmate in the messhall, sitting alone at a back table. Getting his own tray of food from the servers, Hercules joined him.

Iolaus looked up as Herc sat down and greeted him with an unconscious smile of sincere welcome. It felt like forever since they'd talked, let alone touched. "Hey, Herc...where've you been? I didn't see you in the barracks before supper."

Sitting down, Hercules replied steadily, "I went to see Affestus and we had an interesting conversation."

"Oh, yeah?" Iolaus replied, looking down at his food, toying with it, wondering if Hercules was about to tell him they should go back to the way things had been before.

"Yeah," Hercules replied. "Iolaus, look at me," he continued, his voice steady and strong. When Iolaus looked up, if reluctantly, Hercules swallowed at the shadows he saw in his friend's eyes...like someone who knew he was about to be hurt and was determined to take it like a man. "Iolaus...I love you. I don't care what anyone else says or thinks about that. But...if I've hurt you by revealing what's between us, I'm more sorry than I can say. Hurting you is something I don't ever want to do."

Relief washed away the shadows, and Iolaus smiled shakily as he took a deep breath. Shaking his head, he replied, "I don't care what they think about me...that's not important. I just don't want them to think less of you. And, I'm so damned mad about how you're still suffering from their stupid idea of what's funny. Gods, Herc...you have nightmares every single night, scared that you've hurt someone by accident. It's awful...I'd do anything to make those nightmares go away but I don't know how to help you."

Looking away for a moment, Hercules murmured, "Maybe if you woke me up, and held me while you told me it was all just a bad dream, they'd stop happening."

Smiling, Iolaus said, "Too easy, Herc. I can do that...no problem. If you're sure...I mean, they'll rag you something awful if anyone wakes up and sees us."

Looking back at Iolaus, Hercules replied, "They'll get used to it and the teasing'll get old real fast if it's clear we just don't care what they think." Smiling as he sighed softly, "It would sure be good to feel you hold me, Iolaus...you always did when we were kids, remember? Whenever I had nightmares and was afraid of the dark when I was little and you were sleeping over. You always told me there was nothing to be scared of...you were right. When I'm with you, nothing scares me. What we have is something...I don't know...precious? You're the best part of my life, you always have been. What they say can't hurt me...but losing what we have would hurt worse than anything else I can possibly imagine."

Iolaus took a shuddering breath to steady his emotions and had to bite his lip to quell its traitorous tremble. Reaching out, he gripped his lover's wrist as he said haltingly, his voice low and hoarse, "I love you so much...I can't even begin to tell you. You can't lose me, Herc...because I won't ever willingly leave you. I'd do anything for you, you know that. I think losing what we have would just about kill me, you know?" Sniffing, blinking a little, taking another deep breath, he said with a wobbly grin, "So...tonight, we take on those nightmares...deal?"

"Deal," Hercules replied, smiling peacefully with the knowledge that everything was okay between them.

That night, when the nightmares came again, Iolaus climbed quietly down from his own bunk and eased himself in beside Hercules, taking his best friend in his arms as he soothed softly, reassuringly, that everything was all right, that it was just a bad dream. Unconsciously, Hercules turned into his arms, holding him close, a talisman against the darkness, a rock of strength and shelter against the demons of the night. Quieting, he slept peacefully, secure and safe, in Iolaus' embrace.

**

As Iolaus had predicted, others certainly noticed the shift in sleeping arrangements as the nights passed. They weren't all insensitive clods and some overlooked it, understanding that the prank had seriously disturbed Hercules and Iolaus was bringing him a simple comfort. So what? It was no big deal...just something a friend did for another, giving help and solace when it was needed. But others reveled in the chance to ridicule and tease, mocking the demigod for his bad dreams and need to be comforted like a baby. Many speculated quite loudly that it was all just an excuse for Iolaus to get into Hercules' sack, mocking their affection and the importance of their relationship...some, if the truth be known, were virulently jealous that it was Iolaus the demigod had chosen to lie with.

Unfortunately, Hercules' own prediction, that it would all pass once the novelty wore off, if they just ignored it, proved to be less accurate. The teasing and mockery didn't end, but went on and on, day after day, one week and then another. Iolaus either ignored it with rigid dignity or, when he'd had enough or it was too sharp, too mean to let pass, would snap back, as only he could, with biting sarcasm and a deadly wit, accusing them of the jealousy he sensed, mocking them for their own apparent inability to find someone to sleep with. When Herc wasn't around, he'd bat his eyelashes at them and make a moue with his lips as he wiggled or thrust his hips, taunting them about only wanting what Hercules was getting. He knew he got to them, too, the bastards...they did speculate about his past and what he knew about how to give pleasure and damn them, they wanted it, he could tell. Then he'd just smile coldly, and say with infinite disgust at the very idea of being with any one of them, "In your dreams."

Hercules lacked the same sharp tongue or the brashness to give as good as he was getting. He tried to simply endure, but the nonsense irritated him more with every passing day. He hated the innuendo and mean-spirited comments that others made about Iolaus, the insults about his past, or that he was not quite average height, like when they mockingly referred to Iolaus as 'the little lady', or 'the demigod's doxy', and all that that suggested about who dominated and who was weak in their relationship. It was crap, and finally, Hercules had had enough.

One day, when he knew Iolaus was working with the horses in the stable, Hercules confronted Jason, Anteus and Daneus outside the barracks when they were once again trying to give him a hard time.

"What is it with you guys?" he demanded, furious. "Get over it, already! You all know damned well that there's nothing going on between me and Iolaus that the rest of you aren't doing, too, every chance you get. Ever since Affestus first gave us the lecture last fall, you've been like rutting bulls who can't get enough."

"Yeah," Anteus smirked, "but at least we've got some taste."

"What's that supposed to mean?" the demigod demanded, having had enough of the shit they were dealing out about Iolaus and ready to end it then and there.

"He's a runt, Hercules," Daneus sneered, "not to mention a thief and the gods know what else. He's sucked more cock and had more stags up his ass than anyone can even begin to imagine. He's a slut...you can do better than that."

Daneus found himself suddenly braced up against the wall, a tight arm against his throat, throttling him, while enraged blue eyes burned with icy fire. "Don't ever let me hear you or anyone else say that, or anything else rotten about Iolaus again," Hercules snarled, his voice clipped and very dangerous. "He's a better man than all of you put together. He's courageous, and decent, compassionate and selfless. He's bright and funny and, yeah, even gorgeous. Iolaus has endured more in his short life than you could take in a whole lifetime and he still survived, intact and strong. He's the bravest, best man I know...and I love him. Do you understand? I will not allow you to insult or demean him anymore. I'm proud of him, proud of what he's triumphed over, proud that he loves me. I am honoured by his love. If you are too great a fool to see the manner of man that he is, I pity you. But I will still beat the shit out of you the next time I hear any of that crap. Am I clear?"

Alarmed at the violence and the fact that Daneus was turning a peculiar shade of blue, Jason and Anteus pulled at Hercules' arm to break his grip and pull him away.

"Back off, Hercules, before you really hurt him!" Jason commanded sharply.

Hercules turned cold eyes toward his good friend and loosened his grip, stepping away suddenly to let Daneus sag to the ground. "I mean it, Jason. I have had enough, more than enough. It stops now."

"Ease up, big guy," Jason soothed, shaking his head. "Most of it's only been meant in fun."

"Well, it's not funny, and I'm not laughing," Hercules snapped back. Taking a breath, recognizing he was dangerously close to losing control, the demigod pushed taut fingers through his hair. "Dammit, Jase, I just don't get it. Why can't you, any of you, just accept that Iolaus and I have a relationship like those that you all have?"

"Because it's not the same, Hercules," Jason replied stiffly. "Not the same at all."

Exasperated, Hercules threw his hands in the air as he cried, "Well, then, maybe you can explain the difference to me, because I sure don't get it."

"Hercules, you know as well I as do that the younger warriors who are chosen as lovers are eromenos, 'beloved ones', by erastes, the 'older warriors' we sleep with, seasoned and experienced warriors who are our mentors, who teach us," Jason explained with exaggerated patience. "We do not sleep with our peers, wantonly, for the sex alone, but with our betters, as a part of our growth, our learning and maturation as warriors."

Hercules rolled his eyes and shook his head. "Okay, fine. How about this? Iolaus is older than I am, has been my teacher, my guide, for most of my life. As for being a seasoned warrior, do you have any idea of how he had to fight to survive on the streets? Gods, he could take any one of us out if he really wanted to."

But, Jason shook his head as he replied, "I'll grant you that he's older, and though I've never really understood why, I'll even grant that you admire him. But, though he may be a worthy street fighter, that is not the same as being an honourable warrior who has faced battle nobly, who has endured with courage and skill in that greatest test of manhood. He is not a seasoned warrior, Hercules, not someone who has earned the right to our collective respect and admiration."

"And, like it or not, Hercules, he's shorter than you are," Anteus cut in sarcastically. "Hardly someone to 'look up to'."

"Most everyone is shorter than I am, Anteus," Hercules grated, his jaw tight as he fought to restrain his impulse to smack the irritating and supercilious cadet silly.

With a warning glance at his colleague, Jason held up his hands in a gesture for peace. "Hercules...the facts are, Iolaus is behind you academically, has less experience here at the Academy, is a convicted thief and most likely did sell his body to anyone with the silver to buy it," he said, though his voice remained cool and calm. It was all only the truth and Hercules knew it as well as any of them did. "The relationship between you is not appropriate nor does it reflect well upon your judgment...that's just the way it is."

Swallowing, Hercules looked long and hard at each one of them, his gaze finally locking with Jason as he replied with grim sincerity, "You know what, Jase...I don't care. It doesn't matter a damn to me what any of you think. So what if I've been here a year longer than he has and have had the chance to learn more so far...he's catching up, faster than any of you give him credit for, and that's because he's smart and he's working hard. I know about Iolaus' past...and I regret it profoundly because I have some responsibility for not helping him when I should have done, so that he wouldn't have had to endure all that...wouldn't have had to steal for food, to live, wouldn't have had to fight to survive, wouldn't have had to endure unspeakable horror because he had no fucking choice." Hercules paused as he shook his head, unable to understand why they couldn't see what he saw, what was so blindingly obvious if one only looked, really looked, at Iolaus.

Swallowing, the demigod continued, his voice hoarse with emotion, "I don't see a thief, or any of the other crap you all seem to see when you look at him. I see someone strong enough to have survived it all, more rotten, painful horror than any of us can even begin to imagine, and come out with an innocence of spirit so intact that it staggers me. I see someone who was hurt so bad that it's a wonder that he's not twisted and damaged beyond repair, who is instead capable of warmth, and gentleness, and compassion. When you, any of you, have faced the worst that life can ever throw at anyone, and still stand, let alone triumph, then you'll have the right to judge him. His love is a gift I cherish, that humbles me...he is the most precious and important part of my life. I will not let any of you condemn or demean him or what we have. From here on in, hear this, and hear it well...Iolaus is off-limits, whatever you might think of him. You will treat him with the respect you would accord any other cadet...or you will answer to me."

"Fine, Hercules, you win," Jason sighed. "I'll pass the word...but don't think that this won't impact on you, on how others see you, or on how much or how far they will trust you. Whether you care or not, this relationship will not do you any good."

"Whatever," Hercules replied, unconcerned, uncaring of such small minds and opinions. "So long as I have his trust and respect...so long as our relationship endures, I have everything and more than I will ever need from any of you."

Hercules turned to stride away, weary of their prejudice and blindness. Thoughtfully, as he crossed the yard toward the stables, he reflected that all that he'd said was true and he was only sorry he hadn't said it long before now.

The others watched him go, shaking their heads.

"He's a fool," Anteus said. "Whatever he thinks about Iolaus, the runt isn't worth his reputation."

"Too right," Daneus concurred, rubbing his bruised throat. "Jason...you can try, but the guys are still going to talk. Hercules is too close to losing it. He's going to really hurt somebody one of these days ...and all over a worthless piece of trash that whored all over Thebes."

Jason sighed as he rubbed his face. "Yeah, I know...but you heard him. He meant what he said. But, if he reacts violently too often, or in front of the staff, he's going to get himself expelled over Iolaus. It's a damned shame..."

None of them realized they'd been overheard, or noticed a shadow slip away from the side of the barracks.

Iolaus had heard all of it, having finished in the stables sooner than Hercules had thought he would. At first, as he'd listened, wondering whether or not to make an appearance, he'd been elated and touched to the core of his soul by what Hercules had said. His eyes burned and his chest grew tight, to hear Herc speak of him with such pride and conviction. But...he'd heard Jason as well, and the others, and he sighed wearily. Because there was truth in Jason's words. Their relationship was beyond the pale. He might be older in years, but he wasn't a seasoned warrior...he hadn't earned the right to lie with Hercules. He was unworthy for all that Hercules refused to acknowledge that fact. And, Jason was only too right to warn Herc that the relationship was not in his own best interests. It was, in fact, dangerous. And there was no way Iolaus ever wanted Hercules to hurt anyone, or be hurt himself, for defending their relationship or Iolaus' reputation.

How could you defend against the truth?

He couldn't do it, couldn't let the fact that Hercules loved him bring the demigod down. Couldn't let it ruin Hercules' life. Taking a breath as he moved away from the shadows at the side of the building, he followed Hercules to the stables.

They had to talk...it had to end, at least for now.

But another had also witnessed the altercation, and called out to the blond cadet as he crossed the yard.

"Iolaus!" Affestus' voice rang out, drawing attention, as he'd determined it would. With a cutting glance toward the three cadets in front of the barracks, the old warrior called, "We need meat for the staff mess. I ask you and Hercules to go hunting and not return until you have met the need. I will advise Chiron that I have so tasked you."

Iolaus paused for a moment, a little stunned by the public approbation of such a respected and senior warrior, for that was what this was, pure and simple. The look Affestus gave the others, his granting them of privacy and the words he'd chosen, made it abundantly clear. Iolaus glanced toward the three cadets, and saw the surprise, even shock, on their faces. Straightening his back, Iolaus nodded to Affestus as he called back, "I'll tell Hercules...we may be gone a while."

"Take your time...a successful hunt takes patience. I have no doubt of your skill or your ability to do what is necessary or that you will be fortunate in finding what you seek. Go on, Iolaus, seize what is left of this day. The sun is already high and enough time has been wasted...you don't want to let a fine young buck get away because you hesitated too long," Affestus called back, waving him on.

Despite himself, Iolaus grinned wickedly at Affestus' words, getting an equally wicked grin in return. But he also heard the others choke at Affestus' blatant innuendo. Lowering his eyes, Iolaus tightened his jaw, then called back as he turned to follow Hercules, "Trust me, Affestus...I know what needs to be done."

Iolaus met Hercules coming out of the stable just as he got there. "Herc...Affestus just asked us to go hunting for the staff mess. Come on...lets get a couple of bows and some arrows from the armoury."

"Hunting?" Hercules repeated, then started to smile. "What a great idea."

"Uh huh," Iolaus replied, as they turned to get their weapons. "He said we should take as much time as we needed."

"Did he?" Hercules mused. "Good old Affestus...a man who knows that one shouldn't rush a task that deserves time...and the right kind of effort."

Iolaus threw a look of appreciation over his shoulder at the demigod. For a guy who was bashful and shy by nature, Herc had come a long way in a very short period of time. But, all he said, all innocent and coy, was, "Effort? I like to think about time spent in the forest as pure pleasure."

Looping an arm over his friend's shoulder, Hercules smiled down at him, "You're right, Iolaus, as you so often are...you know, a guy could learn a lot from you."

Reminded of the conversation he'd overheard, Iolaus sobered as he turned his face away. "Yeah?" he murmured, "Well, life is full of little lessons, Herc...some are more fun than others."

**

They loped easily across the rolling hills, away from the Academy, Hercules eager to reach the boundary of the forest, Iolaus more thoughtful as he considered what must be said. They continued moving swiftly for about fifteen minutes after they'd entered the cool shadows, until they came to the small glade by the stream where they often fished...and where they'd found precious moments alone over the past months since their return from Solstice leave.

Iolaus had intended to continue right on past, thinking it would be too hard here, too hard to say what he had to say. But, Hercules had other ideas and reached out to snag his shoulder, slowing him until he stopped and turned. When Herc reached to embrace him, Iolaus held up a hand, pressing it against the demigod's chest, holding him back.

Startled, Hercules asked, "What's wrong? I thought we'd..."

"I know, Herc," Iolaus sighed as he took a step back and bit his lip. "But...we need to talk."

"About what?" the young demigod demanded, concerned by the sober tone and the look on Iolaus' face.

"About us," Iolaus replied, taking a deep breath. "I think, maybe, we need to slow down a little."

Shaking his head, Hercules looked away, amazement on his face as he challenged, "Why? Iolaus, I don't understand..."

"Herc...I just think..." Iolaus faltered, wondering how to say this and then decided to just be straight. "Look, I heard the little talk you and Jason and the other two bright lights had just before we left."

Awareness bloomed in Hercules' eyes and his head dropped as he said, "Oh...I'm sorry. I didn't mean for you to hear all that." The others had said hateful things, things that must have hurt Iolaus to hear and he was genuinely sorry for that.

"I'm not," Iolaus replied, his voice steady. "What you said was...incredible. And, I'm grateful." Shaking his head, he smiled softly, "Gods, Herc...I'm more than grateful. Thank you."

Looking up, Hercules replied with sincere solemnity, "I meant every word, Iolaus."

"I know you did," his best friend and lover replied, "but so did the other guys. And, they're right, Herc. I wish they weren't, but they are. Until I earn the right, the respect, and my past is finally history, we can't do this."

"Dammit, Iolaus," Hercules exclaimed, "that's crazy. What difference does what they say or think mean? Who are they to judge us?"

"They are our peers, and they are only guided by what is tradition and by the cold hard facts. Herc...it does matter what they say. You assaulted Daneus in anger because of what they've been saying. I know you did it for me...but what about the next guy who makes a remark you don't want to hear? And the next? Are you just going to beat them up, too?" Iolaus shook his head as he continued, almost pleading with Hercules to listen and to understand, his voice tinged with desperation, "Where will that get us? By the gods, Herc...that'll only reinforce their notions that I'm nothing but your 'doxy' and need to be protected, unable to stand up for myself...and it'll get you thrown out of the Academy. And, then I'll run away to be with you, and we'll be on the run from the law, because I'll have violated my parole and that means jail. It's a losing proposition, buddy. I love you...I'm not going to take us down that road."

"It won't come to that, I won't let it," Hercules protested.

"It will come to that if nothing changes," Iolaus insisted, wishing he didn't know it was the truth.

"So what are you suggesting?" the demigod demanded, his eyes blazing with challenge.

"I'm suggesting that we go back to the way it was before...friends, that's all," Iolaus exclaimed hopelessly, almost choking on the words.

"No," Hercules argued. "No...I won't accept that. I won't let them take away what we have. We'll be discreet, fine...no touching in public if that's the way you want it...and I'll live with any nightmares I might have. But, no, I will not agree to give you up...to give up on us."

"Herc..." Iolaus tried again to bring reason and restraint.

But, Hercules wasn't interested in 'reason', wasn't feeling 'wise' or even 'calm'. He felt love, desperate, passionate love, and he wasn't going to let that go. Reaching out, he grabbed Iolaus' shoulders and stepped up tight against him. Leaning down, he claimed Iolaus' mouth, and getting the response that he knew could not be denied, his hands moved, one to grasp the back of Iolaus' head, the other to circle around his body and draw him closer, tighter still.

Hercules' tongue ravaged his lover's mouth, delving deep, sucking hard and wantonly. Iolaus, unable to resist, moaned in his throat as he responded with equal ardor. Breaking away, Hercules panted, "You can't deny you love me, you won't...you know this is right. Gods, Iolaus...I need you. Please, don't push me away."

Trying desperately to hold onto his runaway emotions, and control his own deep need, Iolaus shook his head. "We can't, Herc...we can't...."

"Yes, we can," Hercules growled as he again bent his head to claim what was his. To still Iolaus' words, he silenced the protests with another deep kiss. Breathing deeply, he let his hands roam, caressing Iolaus' throat and shoulders, slipping under his vest to press against his silken skin, stroking the hard muscles of his lover's back, kneading seductively to relax them and then roaming lower to grip Iolaus' buttocks and pull him tight, so that he could feel Hercules' need and desire...and Hercules could feel his.

His hands moved again, to push off Iolaus' vest and loosen his belt, shoving his hands inside to push the leather pants down and away. Hercules broke off the kiss to nuzzle Iolaus' throat and lick his way up under his lover's jaw to nibble his ear.

"Oh, gods, Herc," Iolaus panted. "I can't resist...please, you have to stop..."

In response, Hercules lifted his head a moment to look into his lover's eyes, reveling in the passion he saw there, the helpless need and longing that only he could assuage. Shaking his head, he bent to kiss Iolaus again as he held him tight and drew them both to the ground, Iolaus under him on the soft, verdant grass.

"I love you, Iolaus," Hercules murmured then. "And you love me." Shifting on his knees, he moved his lips again to Iolaus' throat, feeling the pulse there, the throbbing of excitement and need. Caressing Iolaus' chest, his lips and tongue slipped lower, to suck on one hard nub and then the other, biting softly and moaning in his throat as Iolaus arced up against his mouth and groaned in want as his hands gripped Hercules' shoulders.

"I want you," the demigod whispered hoarsely, as his sensitive fingers moved to sensuously stroke Iolaus' abdomen and then drifted lower to tenderly grip his balls, squeezing and massaging with intimate knowledge. His tongue dipped into Iolaus' navel, then drew a hot line down and around the base of Iolaus' engorged shaft. Iolaus' hands were in his hair now, holding his head tightly, but not holding him back.

An infinitely strong but tender tongue caressed the pulsing vein from root to tip, then danced delicately around and around while Herc moved his hand to grip Iolaus' penis, pumping first slowly, up and down, then harder, and faster, as Iolaus writhed beneath his touch, moaning softly in his need and desire. The demigod tasted him with the tip of his tongue, sliding along the slit moist with precum and moaned himself at the sweetness of it as he covered Iolaus with his lips. Sucking him into deep, wet warmth, demanding and hot, until Iolaus bucked up in irresistible response.

"Oh, gods, Herc," Iolaus gasped, his fingers gripping his lover's head as he thrust up, faster, harder and Hercules took all of him, swallowed him, driving him wild with the sensations that coursed through his body, from deep in his abdomen up through his chest, filling him with exquisite heat and the throbbing, urgent need for completion. Hercules slipped a finger inside of him, finding the spot that he knew drove Iolaus crazy, taking him to even greater heights of pleasure and passion, taking him over the edge. Crying out, Iolaus lost himself in pure sensation as he thrust up hard and again, coming with a hot rush, spurting into Hercules' eager mouth. "Ahhh, gods," he gasped, collapsing back, limp and spent, against the ground. "Oh, Herc...the gods help me...I love you...."

Smiling, joyful in his ability to give such pleasure, Hercules pulled Iolaus' boots off and dragged his pants fully off his body. Shifting to again lean over his lover, Hercules captured his mouth and kissed him deeply even as his sensitive fingers continued to explore and tantalize with a delicate, knowing touch. Iolaus spread his legs, giving Hercules access to what he sought. When Herc lifted his head to gaze down into Iolaus' passion-glazed eyes, he saw his desire and need and pure, infinite love reflected there.

"I want you," Iolaus sighed, helpless to deny it. "I need you."

"No more than I want and need you," Hercules murmured as he moved to kneel between Iolaus' legs. Gripping Iolaus' hips to raise them, the demigod lowered his lips to lick at Iolaus' scrotum, delicately taking his lover's balls into his mouth to suck gently, listening to Iolaus gasp with pleasure. Then, his tongue traced the tender skin back to circle the entrance to Iolaus' body, teasing, then delving inside, thrusting, drawing moans from Iolaus' throat.

"Please, Herc..." his lover asked breathlessly. "Please...I want you."

"I am yours," Hercules whispered as he reached into his shirt and pulled out the small vial of oil he'd taken to carrying with him, always in hope that it would be needed. Pulling out the stopper with his teeth and spitting it away as he loosened his own belt and opened his pants, his erection jumping forth, finally free of all constraint, he then coated his hands and his throbbing penis with the warm oil.

Resting one hand on Iolaus' abdomen, Hercules slipped in one finger, gently, slowly, in, out and around, gradually opening Iolaus, then another finger and a third, relaxing his lover, preparing him with infinite care and tenderness. Probing deeply, he stroked the prostate gland and Iolaus arced up as he gasped with the sensuous flare of heightened passion. Again, and then once more.

"Now, Herc...take me NOW!" Iolaus begged. "Fill me...I want you inside...please, Herc...please..."

Hercules grasped Iolaus' hips and lifted him onto his knees, then raised his lover's feet to rest on his shoulders. Guiding himself forward, he pressed into Iolaus, slowly, taking his time.

But, Iolaus couldn't wait. His arms pressed against the grass, his fingers digging into the warm earth, his heels pressed down on Herc's shoulders as he thrust himself up, impaling himself fully on Hercules shaft, arcing his spine and throwing his head back as he groaned with the exquisite pain and the delicious sensual experience of being filled, united as one, whole and complete.

Hercules could not suppress his own groan of intense pleasure and desire as he felt Iolaus' hot, tight, warmth grip him and draw him deeply inside. Taking a shuddering breath to hold his control, to not lose himself completely, not yet, not yet...he began to rock his hips, drawing himself almost fully out and then thrusting back in...slowly, moaning in his throat as he felt Iolaus' muscles enfold him, undulating to hold him tight. Again, out, drawing himself against Iolaus' prostate so that his lover arced up hard against him, pulling him back in, deeply, oh so deeply, into that heat.

Unable to resist, feeling his own passion build to fill his abdomen even as Iolaus felt him fill his body, feeling the breath tight in his chest, even as Iolaus panted with his need and desire, Hercules pulled back, then thrust in hard and fast, even as Iolaus arced to meet him, and then he was pounding into his lover's body, harder, faster, ever deeper, flushed with passion.

Their eyes caught and held, lost in one another as they arced together with ever increasing need, hotter and hotter, tighter, harder, faster, deeper, spiraling sensation, wanton desire, love so profound, so vast and powerful it could not be denied. Hercules felt his climax building until he was blind with passionate need and he drove into Iolaus, arcing his back as he thrust his hips forward, pulling Iolaus' hips to him, holding his lover tight against his body as he burst inside, filling Iolaus with the hot seed of his love, filling Iolaus with himself. Iolaus felt that hot spurt deep within, and arched up, taking it all, wanting all of Hercules, never wanting to let go, and they cried out together in their completion, their ecstasy.

Iolaus' legs slipped to the ground and Hercules leaned forward, covering his body as he bent to kiss Iolaus with grateful tenderness. The demigod felt Iolaus' arms come up around him to hold him close and they remained lost in one another, still joined, reluctant to part. With a sigh, Hercules shifted so that he could wrap his arms around Iolaus and then lifted his head, to bury his face in those beloved curls as Iolaus pressed tightly against him, and he felt Iolaus' breath on his neck as his lover rested his head against his strong shoulder.

They lay like that a long time, content to be in one another's arms, replete with love, and drowsy with the warmth and the peace of what they found in one another's embrace.

They slept.

**

When Iolaus woke, still cradled in Hercules' arms, he lay still, needing to think about what to do about this. Herc was right...what they had, what they felt, was too strong to ever go back, to ever deny. But going on ...the risks were too great. Oh, he didn't care about himself, about what they said or thought...nothing could hurt him so long as Hercules loved him and needed him. But, he knew it hurt his lover. For his sake, Hercules resented their words. For his sake, Hercules would risk anything.

He couldn't allow that. He would not allow the love they felt for one another to be the cause of pain and possible danger to Hercules. Closing his eyes, he sighed. Until he was a 'seasoned warrior', until he had earned their respect and the right as the older warrior to claim Hercules as his own, there would be nothing but scorn and misery. 'Well...I guess it's pretty clear what I have to do,' Iolaus thought, then swallowed at the risks. Tightening his grip around Hercules, he decided their love was worth those risks.

Hercules stirred not long after, and Iolaus kissed him awake. Playfulness ignited passion and they made love again until they were finally sated. Sighing with pleasure, Iolaus murmured, "I guess we ought to do some hunting."

"Uh huh," Hercules agreed with a fond smile, thinking he'd already caught the prize he'd most wanted.

They got up and dressed, and Iolaus led off again, finally picking up a game trail, the tracks of deer that came to the stream to drink at dusk. In no hurry, they found a spot downwind to watch the trail, Hercules leaning against a tree, Iolaus resting his back on Hercules' chest. The deer came and went unmolested... the hunters knew they'd be back at dawn. There was no rush to make the kill...and they had leave to take however much time they needed.

**

They headed back to the Academy late the next afternoon, hunters returning successfully with meat for the staff's table. As they marched down the hill toward the gates, carrying the stag lashed to a pole between them, Iolaus said quietly, "Just don't let them get to you, Herc...whatever happens, just remember, I love you."

"I know," Hercules replied, "It will be all right."

They didn't flaunt it, but they didn't hide it either, ignoring the looks and the whispered snickers about how long it had taken to catch the deer. When they carted the carcass around to the back of the kitchen and laid it on the ground, Iolaus said cheerfully, "Well, I made the kill...so you get to dress the carcass."

"You're kidding, right?" Hercules protested. "You're going to leave me with the work?"

Laughing as the cook came out with a long butchering knife, Iolaus replied, "Yep, but don't feel bad about it... you've got plenty of help. I'm going to get cleaned up. See you later, big guy."

Hercules snorted at the leer and the wink, but felt a glow of warmth and was willing to absolve Iolaus of the work involved. He had made the kill, after all.

**

Iolaus washed up quickly and then went to see Chiron. Knocking on the door to the centaur's office, he asked, "Excuse me, sir...would you have a moment? There's something I need to ask you."

"Certainly, Iolaus," the headmaster responded. "Come in."

Closing the door behind him, Iolaus moved to stand before the centaur's desk. Taking a breath, he said, "Sir, I would like leave to join my father's regiment."

Frowning, his eyes narrowing with surprise, the centaur observed, "That's an unexpected request, Iolaus. And, it's in direct violation of your terms of parole. Would you like to explain why you wish me to grant this leave?"

Swallowing, Iolaus replied, his voice a little unsteady, "I need to acquire experience as a warrior, Chiron. It's...it's a matter of honour, sir. The other cadets...well, you know they despise me. I need to win their respect and the only way I can do that is to come back as a proven, seasoned warrior."

"Iolaus...the whole purpose of being here at the Academy is to prepare you for a warrior's role," the centaur demurred. "You're not ready...you would be risking your life."

Nodding tightly, Iolaus persevered. "I understand the risks. Believe me, Chiron, I wouldn't ask if it wasn't so important," he stated. "I need to do this. Please, sir, will you grant me leave?"

Chiron studied the young cadet thoughtfully. No fool, he knew why Iolaus believed he needed to do this, what right he was hoping to earn. Looking away, his jaw tight, he weighed the risks in his own mind. He was about to refuse, it was simply too dangerous, when he looked back into Iolaus' eyes and saw the naked hope there...the soul deep need to do this.

And, against his better judgment, Chiron found he could not refuse.

**

That night, Hercules was surprised and gratified when Iolaus slipped into his bunk after the torches were extinguished and silence had fallen over the barracks. Wordlessly, they curled against one another and lay entwined until they fell asleep.

When Hercules awoke sometime after dawn, Iolaus was gone.

At first, he didn't think anything of it, assuming Iolaus had simply gone out to the privy. But, he didn't come back inside. Nor was he at breakfast. Puzzled, Hercules roamed the Academy grounds, looking for him, but when he returned to the barracks, he finally noticed that Iolaus' pack was gone.

Shaking his head, Hercules couldn't believe it...couldn't believe Iolaus would just leave him like this. With no word. No explanation. Just disappear.

The bell rang for classes, and he wandered out of the barracks in a daze. There had to be some mistake. Iolaus wasn't gone...he'd be in class. Loping across the courtyard and up the staircase to the upper hall, Hercules hurried to the classroom.

But, Iolaus wasn't there.

Sinking onto the stool behind his own desk, Hercules tried to make sense of it. It was a while before he noticed that Fiduceous had made no comment about Iolaus' absence. But the other cadets had noticed and, when classes ended, Hercules heard the muttered speculations that Iolaus had run off.

He wanted to rage at them, deny it...but the words lodged in his throat. Because he didn't know what to say.

All day, Hercules wondered when the staff would notice that Iolaus had taken off, surprised when no hue and cry was raised. Worried sick about his friend, fighting back a sense of anger and abandonment, he kept asking himself, 'Why?'

But, he knew the answer.

Iolaus had told him they had to end their relationship, that it was too dangerous for him...that it would only lead to trouble.

But he hadn't listened.

He'd pushed Iolaus into acknowledging the love that neither could ever deny.

So, Iolaus had done the only thing he could to protect the one he loved.

He'd left, to remove the danger.

Hercules had driven him away, forced him to the only other option he could think of.

Scared, wracked with guilt, torn by the grief of the unbearable loss, Hercules didn't know what to do or where to start looking.

He was terrified of what this could mean for his friend, his lover. Iolaus would be sought by the authorities for violating his parole...he'd go to prison.

And all because Hercules couldn't practice restraint, couldn't wait like Iolaus had asked...had to have what he'd wanted so badly.

And now he'd lost everything that mattered.

Devastated, unable to sleep, Hercules lay awake all night. Unable to stand the anxiety any longer, he went to Chiron's office the next morning.

When he was waved in, the young demigod stammered, "I'm worried about Iolaus...I'd like to try to find him."

"Find him?" Chiron repeated. "That's hardly necessary. He's not lost."

Shaking his head, confused, Hercules replied, "But...he's gone."

"Yes, I know...I granted him leave to go," Chiron said calmly. "He'll return when it's time."

Frowning, Hercules said, "I don't understand."

Gazing at the young cadet, Chiron nodded, "Evidently not."

"But..." Hercules began, wanting to know where Iolaus had gone.

Chiron, however, was not prepared to say. "It was a personal matter, Hercules. Don't worry, I have every hope that he'll be back before long. Now, I believe your attendance is required in class," he said, clearly dismissing the cadet from his presence.

**

A week went by with no word...and then another, until it had been a month. Whatever Chiron believed, Hercules was increasingly convinced that Iolaus wasn't coming back. And it was driving him crazy. He couldn't concentrate, and he couldn't get passed the guilt he felt for having driven his best friend away.

The other cadets speculated for a time, but after the second week, it seemed they were only too willing to have Iolaus become nothing but a fading memory.

And, then, one day, a small troupe of soldiers arrived, accompanying a wagon bearing a wounded comrade. As the horses clattered into the courtyard, their rough, travel-stained appearance, their clear status as warriors fresh from a battlefield, occasioned surprise and then sharp curiosity as the students and teachers emerged to see what was going on.

Chiron approached the senior officer, who saluted the centaur and handed him a scroll. Restraining his impulse to hasten to the wagon, strongly suspecting just exactly who was lying wounded under the blankets, Chiron unrolled and scanned the missive. His brows lifted and then he looked up and around at the gathered crowd of cadets and staff. Clearing his throat, he returned his gaze to the scroll as he read:

"Chiron, I regret to inform you that Iolaus' father, General Skouros, had been killed in battle shortly before Iolaus found us in the field. Notwithstanding his personal loss, however, I assure you that Iolaus fought like a Fury at our side, helping to secure our victory. Unfortunately, Iolaus of Thebes was wounded while single-handedly saving five comrades from enemy forces. I herewith note that if Iolaus, Son of Skouros, is any example of the quality of courageous and capable warriors your Academy graduates, then I must commend you, Chiron, and urge you to keep up the good work. We could use many more like him, young men who fight like seasoned warriors, with unswerving dedication and loyalty, with bravery and tenacious determination and skill. You can be proud of this young man, Chiron, for he represented you well, serving with distinction and valour. Though I regret his injuries, I am relieved to know he will recover and I send him back to you for the care he has so richly earned. Signed, General Pelopidas."

Turning to the officer, Chiron nodded once as he rolled the scroll. "Thank you for escorting Iolaus back to the Academy. I am gratified to know that he conducted himself honourably and served nobly in combat. Though it's clear that he's earned the right to due respect as a now seasoned warrior, I am glad to have him back. With more training, the next time he sees action, he'll be at less risk of injury." Smiling austerely, the centaur concluded, "After all, it's not only a warrior's role to inflict damage on the enemy, and safeguard his comrades, but also to hopefully minimize the damage he, himself, sustains...so that he might fight again the next day."

"Aye, sir," the officer acknowledged, "but you may be sure, this one doesn't need much polishing. He's a good soldier and I was proud to have him in my unit...lucky to have him, if it comes to that. I'm one of the men whose lives he saved. And these," he waved to include the men with him, "are the others. It was our privilege and duty to bring him back to you."

Others had stood frozen as Chiron read the message of commendation, but Hercules experienced panic when he heard the words about an injury, and he pushed forward through the crowd to rush to the wagon. Climbing in, he knelt by Iolaus, who was unconscious and pale, a ragged bandage around his head and another, linen stained brown with dried blood, wrapped around his left arm and binding his arm to his chest.

"Iolaus?" the demigod whispered hoarsely, stricken with fear as he reached out to touch his best friend's cheek, feeling the heat of fever.

The blond warrior stirred weakly and blinked against the light, until his eyes focused and he smiled weakly. "Hey, Herc," he murmured, "Sorry it took so long to get back..." His eyes closed again as he sank back into unconsciousness.

"Hercules!" Chiron called out. "Show the soldiers to the infirmary. I'll be there shortly to check on Iolaus' condition."

**

Chiron mixed herbs with wine and supported Iolaus' head while he drank the pain reducing medicine. Then, he examined, treated and rebound Iolaus' wounds...a deep slash in his upper arm, just below the shoulder, and a superficial gash on his forehead, which would nevertheless likely leave a well-earned scar. Iolaus bore the treatment and the pain it engendered stoically, sighing with some relief when Chiron finished.

Laying a hand on Iolaus' head as he looked down at the pale cadet, Chiron spared him a smile as he said, "You did well, Iolaus...but I expect you to bear your distinction as a seasoned warrior with grace and humility, not 'lording it over' your less experienced colleagues here at the Academy. The upperclassmen, in particular, aren't used to deferring to someone younger, with less formal training, than themselves."

Grinning wryly, Iolaus replied, his voice a little weak, "Don't worry, sir, I won't take advantage of them."

"I'm sure you won't, Iolaus," Chiron replied with a faint glint of amusement in his eyes as he stood back and looked from Iolaus to Hercules. "I'll leave Iolaus to your care, Hercules...he needs rest so don't be tiring him with questions about his adventures just yet."

"No, sir," Hercules replied.

Nodding, Chiron turned and left them alone.

Moving to stand by the bed, taking Iolaus' hand in his own, Hercules swallowed against the dryness of his throat. "Gods, Iolaus...I was so scared when you left...and then when Chiron read out that you'd been injured..."

"I'm okay," Iolaus soothed, his eyes warm and a smile playing around his lips.

Shaking his head, Hercules persisted, "This is my fault, isn't it? I shouldn't have forced you...I should have listened when you said we needed to cool it, at least for a while..."

"Shh, Herc, you weren't wrong. I couldn't stop anymore than you could...I knew that, that's why I had to go..." Iolaus started to explain, only to be cut off.

"But you could have gotten yourself killed!" Hercules protested. "Why did you do this?"

"Now, Chiron said, you weren't to wear me out with questions. I need rest...I need to regain my strength. 'Cause, even if there isn't a single upperclassman who appeals to me, there is one cadet...a tall guy, with long, honey-coloured hair and the bluest eyes...you might know him..." Iolaus teased softly, feeling better for the herbs and wine Chiron had given him.

"Oh, yeah?" Hercules replied, unable to stop a slow smile from spreading on his face.

"Yeah...and now that I'm a seasoned warrior, I have the right to claim his affection, to 'mentor' him and ensure he comes along properly...you know, learns what I have to teach him," Iolaus said with a cheeky grin.

"Lucky guy," Hercules murmured. "Who is he?"

"Come here," Iolaus murmured softly, and when Hercules leaned over him, the blond warrior reached up to catch the collar of his open tunic, and pull him down closer still. "I'm older than you, and now I am a seasoned warrior with the wounds to prove it," he murmured huskily. "Eromenos, prepare to be wooed with all due formality and tradition, with wine and maybe even music. I will champion you, and sing your praises to all and, be warned young man, I will seduce you into my bed. But, I promise you, you will be safe with me, always, because I will take you with tenderness and hold you with love, and all will know you are under my protection, the beloved companion of an older and wiser warrior."

"I wouldn't push the 'wiser' bit," Hercules cautioned as he bent to brush Iolaus' lips with his own.

"Hmm..." Iolaus murmured, returning the kiss. "Okay...how about 'older and talented warrior'?"

"Oh, yeah," Hercules grinned, "that works...that definitely works."

"Then, it's settled," Iolaus whispered as he stroked Hercules' cheek and gazed up into his eyes. "I claim you, Hercules, eromenos, as my friend and swordbrother, as my love, for life..."

"Iolaus, erastes, I acknowledge your claim...I am your friend, and swordbrother and you are my love, for life," Hercules vowed.

"Shut up and kiss me," Iolaus growled.

"Your wish is my command," Hercules murmured as he complied with tender grace.

Finis