The Prodigal Son

By Sandman

Iphicles lay silent and still in the royal bed, his face turned to drink in the beauty that was by his side, Rena, the woman who had chosen HIM. He traced the path of her soft skin, letting his eyes follow the smooth line of her forehead, the sweet curve of her nose and then descend over her chin, slipping down her milky throat to where the satin quilt covered her. He watched the rise and fall of her breasts as she breathed softly, the flutter of her eyelids as she dreamed. The first crimson rays of the new day pried through the window and stroked Rena's silky raven hair.

Iphicles couldn't remember ever feeling so happy. In all the years since he'd been taken from Alcemene he couldn't remember anyone caring about him as much as Rena did. She had shown him what being a king really meant, not the ruling or the endless counsel meetings, but the responsibility of honesty and truth, of knowing what he could and what he couldn't do and mostly how kindness inspired loyalty and leadership rallied the people.

Rena was truly a Queen, a woman so regal and smart that it took Iphicles' breath away just to think that she had chosen him to be her husband. If only there was more he could do for her. Iphicles sighed, watching as Rena's eyelids opened and she turned her head, letting her eyes come to focus on his face.

"Iphicles," she whispered, a smile parting her lips.

He reached for her, gathering her into his arms and inhaling her delicate scent as the late spring breeze blew across her skin.

"Rena," he whispered into the delicate shell of her ear.

"Were you watching me sleep?" she teased, running her fingertips along the stubble of his unshaven chin.

"I was watching you dream about me," he answered, pulling back to see her smile.

"No one else, Iphicles, ever." Her eyes were sincere and the tease left her face.

Iphicles felt his chest grow tight, like a fist had just jabbed into it. It was the grip of acceptance, something he'd never let himself feel before Rena.

"Let's sleep in today," he murmured, feeling his wife slide closer.

**

Rena made breakfast as she sometimes did. Iphicles watched as she cooked the quail eggs over the fire, noting how she bent with her back straight, giving a wonderful view of her behind. These were the times he could truly forget he was king- - -king of a small area, mostly poor farmers with a small market. His army was not one of professional soldiers, but simply the farmers and peasants who took any tool they had and fought with it. He had no cavalry, no storehouse of weapons, even though Ares had certainly offered. Iphicles had seen enough to know that Hercules' godly relatives were not to be trusted and an offer of weapons carried a heavy price.

He sighed and let his mind return to Rena as she turned with a plate full of eggs in her hands, smiling at him. She never seemed to mind that this poor excuse for a royal castle was drafty, the doors sat askew on their hinges and the empty rooms echoed. "We'll fill it with children and no one will notice its flaws," was her laughing response when Iphicles worried about it.

She set the plate in front of him. "You have that look about you."

"What?" he answered guiltily.

"The one that makes me think that you're not satisfied with our lives." She plopped down in the seat across from him, her eyes never leaving his.

Iphicles wanted to eat the eggs, but not without looking at them. And he couldn't let Rena stare at him like that and still turn his eyes away.

"Rena, it's not quite that," he finally acceded.

She raised an eyebrow as the scent of the delicate eggs wafted up to his nose.

"It's just that sometimes I feel like I didn't really earn this." He swept his arm around the castle area. "It was my brother and Iolaus who did a lot of the fighting to end your step father's rule. They set me up here." Iphicles let his eyes drop away from his wife's.

"Iphicles!" she said sharply, then took a slow breath and reached for his hand. "You fought just as hard as your brother and Iolaus. And you knew they wouldn't stay, couldn't. Someone had to rule or there would be no protection for the people." Her voice grew soft. "The people wanted YOU and you've proved yourself to be a more than capable leader."

Iphicles nodded tightlipped, wishing he was eating the eggs, whose heat no longer rose in steam to scent the air.

"Iph," she whispered seeing his obstinance. "I would be happy anywhere as long as it's at your side.

He nodded, knowing it was true. "But you deserve so much more"- - -

She put a finger to his lips. "It's true, I loved you when I thought you were Hercules, but now I love you more because you're Iphicles. Put those thoughts to rest. It's YOU who deserve so much more than this."

She leaned forward and set her lips softly against his. He had such a dark strong, handsome face, not angular like Hercules, but softer, rounder, his eyes stronger and fiercer. She worried that he couldn't throw aside the cloak of abandonment his past threw over him, which weighed so heavily across his broad shoulders.

Sometimes he woke at night, growing restless and moaning. He called out his mother's name and she could hear a small boy's fear and sorrow in the croaking voice. Other times, he roared out his half brother's name, his fists clenched. Rena knew he loved his brother. He just hated not being the chosen one.

"I'll make you more eggs," she whispered as she squeezed his hand tightly.

**

Iolaus charged up the path that led to the smallish somewhat rundown castle which the King of Phlegra called home, pulling Dearcy along by the hand like a kite. Even with shortcuts and running all the way, Iolaus was worried that there wouldn't be enough time to get Iphicles back before it was too late. And Jason was counting on him. He didn't even slow his pace as he dashed up the granite steps, screeching to a halt almost touching the two guards who stood in front of the heavy oak door tilting slightly on its lintels.

"Halt!" The guard extended a hand against Iolaus' heaving chest, his other hand hovering over his sword. The second guard stepped forward as well, placing the tip of his hunting knife over Iolaus' heart.

"State your business!"

Dearcy raised a hand to her mouth, thinking the men looked more like shepherds than guards, but stood silent as Iolaus squeezed her hand firmly in warning.

"I'm here to see Iphicles, King of Phlegra," Iolaus spoke with haste. "My name is Iolaus of Thebes. Go to him at once and tell him that I have an urgent message for him."

The guards stood silently sizing up the winded man who had come to the castle and proceeded to immediately order them around. He had a certain regal bearing when he held himself fully erect making eye contact with them. The guards cast wary glances at each other. Perhaps this Iolaus of Thebes was royalty. Certainly the woman with him bore herself with dignity. Why then were they on foot?

The first guard nodded at the second, who went into the castle. Iolaus paced, his boots scuffling against the stone. He wiped a bead of sweat away from his brow, glancing at the sun, almost full in the sky. Time was short.

Dearcy stared across at the guard disapprovingly. "Put your sword down," she commanded.

Iolaus tugged her to his side. "These are not your men," he whispered. "They're simply protecting Iphicles."

Dearcy turned to him in exasperation. "They don't need to treat us like criminals! In my kingdom we would be ushered into a secure area and treated well, although guarded."

"Dearcy, you have to realize that Iphicles has only been king for a relatively short while. And furthermore, he inherited a land torn apart by his wife's warlord step father. This isn't a long stable Kingdom like your father's." Iolaus sighed and held Dearcy's fiery eyes with his own. "They're trying to get back on their feet," he spoke softly.

Dearcy nodded and squeezed his hand.

Iolaus shook his legs out, stretching the muscles and moving in small circles as he kept a wary eye on the guard. These men did not look well trained, and that meant they were also more likely to fight first and ask questions later. And Iolaus didn't want to hurt anyone, or for that matter make Iph's guards look incompetent.

He thought back to how Herc's brother had looked so stunned when they first suggested he remain in Phlegra as King, as if the thought had never occurred to him. Yet he would have taken his brother's name, something far more worthy than a kingdom. Iolaus couldn't understand it at first, but later he'd realized that perhaps Iphicles didn't really think much of himself. His life must have been one long comparison to Hercules and he had simply done what he thought other people wanted, become the better man.

Iolaus shook his head at the memory. Iphicles didn't need to be Hercules to be a fine man. He did a great job on his own. He and Hercules had looked up to Iphicles whenever he came back to Alcemene's. They had both afforded him the respect of a big brother even though they didn't see him nearly enough. The one thing that had always bothered Iolaus was that Iph never spoke about living with his father's parents.

His thoughts were interrupted by Dearcy's impatient tug on his arm

"Come on Iolaus! They're waiting for us!"

**
Iphicles sat at the table with Rena next to him.

Iolaus hadn't come back to the Phlegra since he and Hercules had left Iphicles in charge, and that he was here now and pounding on the door was unsettling. And he was alone, no Hercules. It couldn't mean anything good. He felt Rena squeeze his hand and drew strength from her, sitting up a little straighter. He WAS a king.

Iolaus was ushered into the castle's dining room by one of the outside guards, looking tired and a bit disheveled. Iphicles raised an appraising eyebrow as he noted the lovely woman at the hunter's side. Perhaps this is why Iolaus was traveling without Hercules.

He watched, as Iolaus bowed before him, letting the guards know that he recognized Iphicles' sovereignty. Iphicles found himself pleased and relaxed a bit, nodding for Iolaus and his lady friend to be seated. He raised his head.

"Would you like some Quail eggs?" he asked, thinking it was high time he breakfasted on Rena's offering. He dug into the light yellow barely warm eggs forking a large mound into his mouth and suddenly realizing how hungry he really was.

"OOOH, my favorite!" Dearcy clapped her hands in delight as Iolaus shot her an incredulous look.

"Dearcy, we don't have time."

She pouted as Iolaus turned to Iphicles.

"Jason needs you," he began. He'd spent the whole trip here wondering how he could present this news to Iphicles, knowing that it could only lead to more questions but now that he'd arrived, time seemed too short for long explanations.

Iphicles swallowed the eggs and stared assessingly across at Iolaus. He watched the slight fidget, the restless shifting in the chair, followed by the standing and pacing when he'd blurted out his need,

"What does Jason need?" Iphicles asked with a single eyebrow raised.

Iolaus rubbed his mouth with his hand looking away before he stood tall and stared directly into Iphicles' eyes.

"He wants you take his place as King of Corinth."

Iphicles' eyes narrowed in suspicion as Rena gasped, a hand fluttering to her chest.

"Iph, that's wonderful!"

Iphicles drummed his fingers on the table. "Now why would he want that?" He wondered aloud.

This was the part Iolaus dreaded, the part where what he said would only hurt.

"He's marrying your mother."

It was Iphicles' turn to snort as he drew his head back and knitted his brows. "Is this a joke?" he asked, not bothering to hide the disbelief in his voice.

"I'm afraid not," Iolaus answered with a sigh as he dropped back in his chair across from the King of Phlegra. "And if it makes it any easier, Hercules had the same reaction when he found out."

Iphicles shook his head. "Why didn't she tell me, why didn't Jason- - -"

"I don't know," Iolaus shook his head. "I do know that Herc was having a hard time with it too, Jason being his friend and all." Iolaus stopped, trying to find a way to head off the myriad of questions that were sure to follow. Time was of the essence.

"Look Iph," he began again. "Jason needs a successor before the next full moon, two days away or his kingdom will go by default to a real jerk. He wants YOU."

Iphicles felt Rena reach for his hand under the table. He felt the tremble of her body next to his, her excitement at the realization that their fortunes were about to change for the better. But Iphicles had learned that nothing was ever as simple as a yes or no and that sometimes hard questions needed to be asked.

"So why me, not my brother or you?"

Iolaus could hear the challenge in Iphicles' voice, but couldn't sugarcoat the truth. If Iph was to be king, it had to be a decision he made knowing the whole truth. But that he had to deliver it hurt.

"Jason asked but Hercules declined."

"And you?"

"Iph, I'm not a king. I want nothing more than to be at your brother's side, it's where I belong."

Iphicles closed his eyes, trying to keep the hurt inside. He took a deep breath. This was one of those times when it wouldn't do to say what he felt. Decisions had to be made that effected two kingdoms. Rena had taught him that there was no place for personal feelings when so many people were involved. He was supposed to be working for the greater good.

Iphicles stood up abruptly. He couldn't answer, his throat felt tight and a giant fist had seized his heart.

"I'll take it under advisement," he growled and turned to stalk from the room, as Iolaus stood tight lipped and Dearcy stared stunned.

**

"Iphicles," Rena spoke softly as she watched her husband pace their bedroom.

"Third choice, and not even told before the wedding that mother had a beau." He shook his head, not looking at Rena.

"Iph," she tried to reason. "He said Hercules wasn't told either."

Iphicles shook his head. "Maybe not, but he wasn't third choice either."

Rena had no answer. She felt his pain, knew how he viewed it as just another rejection, affirmation that his value was less simply because he wasn't a demigod.

"Iphicles," she tried again. "There are many people that Jason could have chosen. I'm sure he knows a lot more than three people who are worthy and capable of ruling Corinth, that you are third isn't what you think. You are third, not last."

Iphicles sank down onto the bed.

"Rena, all my life I've walked in Hercules' shadow. Even Iolaus doesn't do that. Heck when he was kid Iolaus was his protector, and for a lot of years after that as well. But me, I didn't even rate walking in Iolaus' shadow back then." He stopped, not meeting his wife's eyes.

"Did you ever wonder why I told you I was Hercules and not Iphicles?"

"After I met your brother I knew," she murmured. "But I married you, and I certainly knew the difference."

Iphicles pulled her down to him, wrapped his arms around her. "Tell me again why you chose me."

"You're much more handsome," she smiled. "And definitely more stable." She smiled. "And you appreciate me for more than a pretty face."

"Because that's just the bonus." He let his head drop to her neck, letting his lips feel the silken skin of her shoulder, taken in by the sweet scent of her hair, so comforting.

She leaned her cheek against his head and wrapped her arms around him. He carried so much hurt inside! No one in his family had ever meant for their words or their actions to sear such pain into Iphicles' soul, but it was there none the less.

"You're mother has always loved you," she whispered softly into his hair, not even sure that he could hear her voice. "It wasn't her fault that you were taken from her. Blame the Gods for that."

"Rena," Iphicles raised his head, his eyes meeting hers. "My head knows you're right, but my heart"- - - He couldn't finish, turning away with a small choking noise.

"Your heart is honest and true." She finished for him, reaching for his cheek to turn his face towards hers. And when you look deep enough, you'll see that it's your heart that truly makes you king. You always know what's right, even if it take you a while to admit it to yourself."

Iphicles pondered her words.

**

Iolaus paced in the dining area of the castle. This wasn't going so well. Time was short and Iphicles was in one of THOSE moods again, the ones he pulled whenever they got together as kids and he couldn't keep up with Hercules and Iolaus, even though he was older. He never understood that it wasn't his fault. The only reason Iolaus had been as good as he was had been because he HAD to be to keep up with the demigod. He refused even then to accept that Hercules was better than he was. Because Hercules wasn't better, only different. If only Iphicles could have realized that, he could have saved himself a load of anguish. Why did Iph let the past get in the way of the present?

Dearcy stood silently shaking her head.

"For Gods' sake, Iolaus you just offered him a kingdom to rule, and a very large and powerful one at that. Can't he just say thank you?"

Iolaus sighed, wishing it could be that simple. Some people look deeper than they have to, Dearcy," he sighed.

"Ooh," she stomped her foot, bringing the attention of one of the guards to bear on her. "My mother always taught me that when someone gives you a gift, just say thank you." She nodded knowingly. "And I was SO looking forward to this whole royal wedding!"

"Me too," Iolaus agreed as he crossed his arms on his chest and leaned back against an empty suit of armor.

Well, Iphicles got into these moods, but he also got OUT of them. They could only hope that Rena would be able to talk some sense into him.

**

Rena knew that what Iphicles needed most was time to sort out his thoughts. He really was a smart and kind man, able to handle the problems of a kingdom quite aptly. He had learned so much this past year ruling Phlegra, and his subjects were loyal. An alliance with Corinth and shared leadership would really pull this small city up in standing. Where family was concerned, Iphicles let emotion come too strongly into play. But given time, Rena trusted that he would surely see that this was unimportant in the bigger picture. Corinth needed a King. Iphicles was the man for the job.

Rena stood and cast her eyes on her brooding husband. "Iph, we have guests. I'll leave you to your considerations. It would be rude to leave them for too long." She placed a hand on his shoulder reassuringly.

"Take the time you need, darling."

Iphicles nodded, reaching for her hand and squeezing it, nodding his head, but not meeting her eyes. A decision such as this shouldn't be made without deliberation.

Rena turned and left the room as Iphicles held his face in his hands.

**

Iolaus lifted his head as the door opened and Rena swept into the room.

She nodded at Dearcy, and then turning to Iolaus spoke with conviction. "Iphicles is taking the offer under advisement. A decision as big as this should never be made in haste. Until he comes out, perhaps you would let me make you comfortable. I'm sure the trip here was long and that you're hungry and tired."

"Well," Dearcy pondered aloud. "I COULD take a little toast to calm my stomach."

Iolaus suddenly looked weary. Rena noticed dark circles under his eyes, took in the dusty clothes and the way he leaned for support.

"Why don't I let you get bathed as the cook makes something for you?" She turned, walking quickly over to the guard. "Get the house maid please and let her know we have guests that would like to bathe before eating."

He nodded, a quick jerk of the head before he turned smartly. Rena smiled at him; Agricus was her cousin, strong but not smart and thankful for any paying job that didn't have him spreading manure in a field. He was loyal and trustworthy.

"I'll have a hot meal waiting." She clapped her hands and a maid was there in seconds.

"Attend to their needs. The bathing area is being prepared." She smiled at the young woman who nodded acquiescing to her Queens's wishes.

"Follow Flora to the royal baths."

Flora shot a look of surprise at her queen. These people must be royalty or family of royalty to be shown to the king's own bath. She bowed deferentially to the golden haired man and the raven haired beauty who accompanied him, wondering all the while why they were visiting Phlegra. Her Master and mistress rarely had visitors from outside the kingdom, and never had she been asked to prepare the kings own bath area.

Flora turned with a small nod and swept an arm toward the main corridor.

"If you would follow me," she bowed and led the way.

**

The bath was warm and deep and Iphicles had found some way to propel a stream of even warmer water like a bubbling massage through the pool so that the effect was a constant soothing rush. And he'd placed several of these through out the bath. Iolaus was impressed. His muscles relaxed. He laid his head back against the warmed rock wall and closed his eyes wearily, breathing the scent of the mineral water deeply.

He could hear Dearcy sigh with delight as she settled in a separate area, shielded at her request by a silken screen. The sound of a maid attending to her in hushed whispers and the scent of the sweet floral soap made Iolaus sleepy, and he slipped deeper into the tub and thought for the first time in quite a while about Ania.

Once she had surprised him with a bubble bath, scented with flowers from Alcemene's garden. She's laughed at his surprise, saying she needed to sweeten the scent of the fertilizer he'd been spreading. She'd massaged the warm soapy water across his sore muscles much as these powerful streams of Iphicles were doing.

Dearcy's delight and soft laughter were not so unlike Ania's. And the way she smiled at him, her earnestness and concern in her eyes dragged him back to a time he tried to keep cloistered away, to be brought for inspection only when he was alone. He opened his eyes, unwilling to allow himself the indulgence of this pleasure when he was supposed to be on a mission to help Jason.

Iolaus sunk still lower into the water and rubbed the soft wash cloth across his dirty skin. He would love to rest, to sleep with a full stomach, maybe even with Dearcy, but there wasn't time for such indulgence. Corinth needed a new ruler, one who would be fair and just and Jason was counting on him to bring this man forward. Still, it would only take a moment to jump out of the bath if Iphicles came forward with a decision.

Iolaus let his eyes close. The maid was busy meeting Dearcy's needs, which was fine with him. He didn't need assistance with a bath. He needed to clean up, eat and get Iphicles to see that this was about the future and not the past. The pain Iphicles held clutched so fiercely was what actually made him a great leader. It gave him strength to make the tough decisions that ruling a kingdom required and the fortitude to enforce them for the benefit of his people.

Whether Iphicles wanted to see it or not, the very hardship that had caused him to suffer, was exactly what was required to mold him into the king who would be best equipped to lead a city like Corinth. Alcemene's love had tempered the pain so that instead of anger and defiance, it manifested as leadership.

But it was Iphicles who need to realize this.

Dearcy sighed. Iolaus heard the soft sweet voice of a maiden singing a love song, the plucking of a melody to accompany her. He had requested his attendants leave, allowing him to relax and now in the almost silence of the bath area he allowed his mind to consider Iphicles.

Iphicles could be a stubborn man. His back was always raised when it came to Hercules. Here he was being offered a dream job, but instead of being honored, he was angry. Surely he realized that Jason had offered the monarchy to both Hercules and himself simply as a gesture of friendship, knowing full well that neither one of them would take it. Why, the royal invitation and proclamation had already been drawn up, and only Iphicles' name was on it.

Iolaus shifted, letting his compact frame sink lower and the massage of water soothe his sore shoulders. Well, maybe Rena would be able to talk some sense into her husband.

**

Iphicles paced restlessly in the big, almost empty royal bed chambers. This had all come so suddenly. One minute he was enjoying his life as King of Phlegra with beautiful Queen Rena at his side, wanting nothing but time together and the next he was being offered an even larger and richer kingdom.

But there would be problems. There always were. Corinth would be under attack by bandits and other out lying kingdoms, regularly too. That was its history. And Iphicles wondered if he would be able to handle not just the battle strategy needed, but the pressure as well. How would he ever pick his advisers and would Jason's own cabinet rise up against him? What about his own people of Phlegra? How would they feel about becoming a part of Corinth's monarchy? He should include at least some of them in his advisors, but who was educated enough? They were simple farmers and hunters, yet certainly not stupid. Would the people of Corinth accept any one of them as his choice?

Iphicles shook his head and walked over to the open window, leaning heavily on it. Being King of Corinth was a double edged sword. There was much to be gained, but at what cost? He was happy here. Rena seemed happy here. But there wasn't much chance for growth. And the bit about being third choice riled Iphicles.

Iphicles sighed heavily. So much to gain, yet so much to lose with a single decision. The one thing he knew with certainty was that this was a decision that would forever affect him. It must be done with careful deliberation. He closed his eyes and tried to relax, letting his mind find its own way.

He knew that Rena deserved every bit of riches and luxury he could give her, no doubt about that. And he'd give anything to please her. Jason was a young man when he had assumed kingship and shouldered the burdens that came with it. But he'd also been prepared for the job. Iphicles had grown up as a dead warrior's son, taken from the mother he loved and raised by his grandparents, hardly royal material and certainly not as prepared to tackle the issues of a whole kingdom.

Yet deep inside, Iphicles wanted this job. He could finally prove something not just to his family, but also to himself. This was a decision that warranted serious consideration, not just a quick decision, yet this was what Iolaus asked. Was time as short as Iolaus indicated?

Iphicles was troubled, torn between hurt feelings and stepping up to the job. He knew he shouldn't be like this and that being a king would sometimes call for quick decisions. He had thought that when the time came for him to make his first decisive command that he'd be more than able, but he hadn't bargained on having family attached to it. Iphicles wondered whether he was a man or a mouse.

**

Iolaus didn't want to leave the warm water. It was so soothing on his tired muscles and it felt so good to be clean. But Jason was counting on him so with one last dip under, he drew himself up on the edge of the bath. The water streamed down his tanned skin and dripped in rivulets off his flattened curls. He let his feet dangle in the soft swirling currents. He closed his eyes and listened to the plucking of a lyre and soft accompaniment of a flute from Dearcy's side of the bath thinking that he'd never thought her capable of running all the way. She was a somewhat spoiled princess, probably more used to being driven. Yet she'd risen to the occasion. Well, she deserved her bath and rest. Iolaus hoped that she too had the warm massaging currents in her bath.

Iolaus stood and stretched, shaking out his muscles and letting the water fly from his golden hair. He reached for the thick towel left for him and rubbed it through his hair.

Maybe he hadn't been clear with Iphicles about how important this offer was and how much Jason needed him, relied on him, and respected him. Gods, Iph was already a king, why was there a difference in just moving to Corinth before the end of the next day?

Iolaus wrapped the towel around his waist, turning to search for his pants and vest, finding them gone. Instead, a beautiful outfit of royal blue silk lay on the bench where he'd left his road dirtied clothing when he'd embraced the bath. Iolaus sighed. The maid was too efficient. He wondered how long it would be until the familiar worn vest was cleaned and returned to him.

He slipped on the loose fitting bottoms and pulled on the soft top, the color of his eyes. It felt like something designed more to sleep in then to be visiting in, but since he had no choice he simply shrugged and let the soft cloth fall into place. His boots were gone being shined. Iolaus nudged his feet into the soft goat skin sandals under the bench that had held his new clothes.

Definitely Rena's idea, he thought. He'd known Iphicles long enough to understand that his mind was on more important things than comfort and fashion. Well, he hoped that Iphicles was thinking of Jason, and Corinth, and his responsibilities to Greece. Time was short. If Iphicles couldn't come to a decision soon, well Iolaus would go to him. Hercules was counting on him.

**

Iolaus rapped hard on the sturdy door to Iphicles bedroom. The wood sounded with a dull thudding beneath his knuckles and from behind the door he heard the sudden silence where once the scuffle of pacing feet sounded.

"Come on Iphicles! Open Up!" Iolaus called out in frustration. "We don't have time to waste!"

Iolaus waited, hands on hips as the footsteps started once again and in a few seconds the door handle moved.

Iphicles pulled the door in and faced Iolaus.

"Iph," Iolaus began convincingly, "You are the right man for the job. Stop doubting yourself." He stepped forward as Iphicles moved, clearing the way for him to enter.

Iphicles stared down at his brother's best friend.

"Where are your clothes? You're wearing blue pajamas."

Iolaus sighed in frustration. "Never mind what I'm wearing. You, oh King, are expected to make a timely decision or Jason and Corinth will certainly suffer." He placed his hands on his hips and leaned forward, tipping his head up to Iphicles.

Iphicles rubbed his hand across his mouth, not meeting Iolaus's blue eyes.

"It's not as easy as you think."

"Iphicles!" Iolaus practically yelled. "It's a yes or a no question! Do you want to be king of Corinth or not?"

Iphicles turned away. Rena had taught him to think before he spoke his mind. Before Rena he might have gotten in Iolaus' face, but now, he simply took a deep breath.

"Iolaus, Rena and I have a responsibility to Phlegra. Corinth brings complications. Yes it also offers power and security, but I'm not so sure that those factors outweigh our present happiness. What if something happens to Phlegra while I'm off happily ruling Corinth?"

Iolaus leaned forward. "It won't happen if you send some of your soldiers, which I might add Corinth has plenty of, to protect Phlegra."

Iphicles turned away. "Point well taken." He walked into the room and Iolaus followed unbeckoned.

"Iphicles," Iolaus reasoned. "Hercules and I were only asked first out of courtesy. Jason always had you in mind."

Iphicles wheeled around. "And how do you know this?"

Iolaus couldn't help but notice how regally Iphicles held himself, the commanding tone to his voice, the self assured posture and the fire in is eyes. Jason had chosen well. Neither he nor Hercules could ever have ruled Corinth with the authority of Iph.

"Look at yourself," Iolaus cajoled. "You know the questions to ask, you're not jumping at the prospect. You understand the problems as well as the responsibility. And Iphicles," he placed a hand on the King's arm reassuringly. "By taking the job you'd be preventing a hostile takeover that could threaten Phlegra."

Iphicles sighed and pulled away, turning his back on Iolaus. "What you say is true," he spoke carefully. "But I'm tired of being second to my brother."

Iolaus didn't even try to hide his exasperation. "Look Iphicles, you're blowing this all out of proportion. No one knows Hercules was even asked, let alone me. Whoever steps up to be crowned will known as the sole successor of Corinth, the man chosen by Jason."

"Put yourself in my shoes," Iphicles spoke firmly, holding Iolaus with a steely eyed stare. "What if you were the last man to be asked? What if there was no one else to fall back on and you were truly forced to choose between your happy life with Hercules and the sudden new responsibility of running a major kingdom. Which, I might add, would certainly cut into the social life?"

Iolaus opened his mouth, and then under Iphicles' scrutiny, closed it. What if he was the last man? What if a whole kingdom, no two kingdoms relied on his decision? What if his choice meant serving the greater good of so many people but leaving behind the security he knew? Could he have made the decision as quickly as Jason needed?

Iolaus realized with certainty that he would have let Jason down, in spite of the needs of Corinth. His path was at Hercules' side, that simple. He was asking Iphicles to be the better man, to do something neither he nor Hercules could do.

Iolaus nodded as much to himself as to Iphicles. He understood, and he'd stop pressing. Iphicles clearly was aware of the time constraints and capable of making a decision which was appropriate to his own life. But somehow he couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Iphicles' digging in his heels than simply being asked after Herc and him.

Iphicles stood silent and still facing Iolaus knowingly, his visage showing clearly how troubled he felt.

Iolaus met his eyes, and saw it there, a pain deeper than simply a decision of which kingdom to choose, or whether Rena would adapt.

Iphicles could see the concern Iolaus was feeling. He remembered when they were kids, when he could tell Iolaus a secret and know that even Hercules wouldn't find out. His voice cracked as he opened up to the blonde.

"She didn't want me then, why now?" he spoke softly, the grief of the years this question had festered lie open now.

"Iph," Iolaus spoke softly, knowing exactly what was hurting worst. She wanted you and you know that, but she had no means to fight for you. If she had, they would have taken you anyway and then not even let the two of you see each other. Your mother grieved for you."

Iphicles held his face in his hands as if that simple action could hold all the pain back inside, push it deep where he wouldn't have to think or feel or acknowledge it. "But why didn't mother at least tell me?"

Iolaus could hear the gut wrenching pain in Iphicles voice

"Hercules asked the same question."

Iphicles pulled his hands away and Iolaus could see the conflict reflected on his face. What seemed so natural to him had eluded Alcemene's children.

"She doesn't have to ask your permission. She's your mother." Iolaus spoke gently, reaching a hand out to grip Iphicles' arm.

"When is the last time either you or Hercules really asked what was happening in HER life? She's spent a long time alone and finally has someone who won't walk away, who places her as more important than a powerful kingdom, and who loves her family enough to want to give one of them a special gift of trust and power as well." Iolaus shook his head. "If you'd been closer to her, you would have known without her even telling you."

Iphicles hung his head. "You're right Iolaus. It's not my place to tell my mother what to do, or to question her decisions." He lifted his gaze to meet Iolaus' cerulean eyes. "But assuming the throne of Corinth still bothers me."

"How so?" Iolaus prodded.

"Iphicles shook his head. "This is Rena's home. She likes it here. Moving to the city, well, it will be tough on her"

"Iph, she's a Queen and she knows what has to be done. The move to Corinth is a step up, not that this place is bad," he added hastily. "But think of the good the two of you could do there. If Jason doesn't find an able successor by tomorrow, then the city will be taken by rival factions."

Iphicles sighed heavily. Time was short and he had an inkling he would regret taking the offer. Life was decent in Phlegra, though not what it would be in Corinth. Well he might regret the decision, but Rena deserved the best life possible.

"We'll leave for Corinth before dawn," he commanded.

"But the wedding is in the afternoon!" Iolaus protested.

"I have horses and chariots. We'll make it to Corinth on time. Rena deserves time to pack appropriate clothing and make preparations and my people deserve to know what is happening." Iphicles turned on his heel, moving to the window for a last long glance at his kingdom, gripping the sill when he reached it with white knuckles.

Iolaus left quietly shutting the door behind him.
**

Rena waited in her sewing room, patiently stitching the tiny pieces to a cradle sized quilt together. One day she and Iphicles would be parents and she wanted to be prepared. Besides, sewing was relaxing to her, and Olympus knew she certainly needed a little relaxing today. Rena's fingers held the needle delicately, weaving in and out of the soft cloth. All things must be done with planning, the pieces carefully fit and joined. There was no room for error.

But Rena was sure of her work. All the pieces had been precisely measured and pinned so that her perfect stitches would join the pieces into one whole, more beautiful and complex than any of the materiel had been alone. She concentrated her thoughts on the needle piercing the fabric repeatedly, alternately breaking and mending.

And so it was with life, she thought. But in the end, everything came together to make something far more wonderful and precious than it ever was at the beginning. Iphicles would see his way clear. Phlegra would prosper and Corinth wouldn't suffer for want of Jason.

She had always seen Iphicles as far stronger than he saw himself. The years spent taken from his mother had never been the handicap he'd seen it as, on the contrary. It had taught him the value of family, the need to form strong alliances and keep them. He had grown hard and strong, wary and capable of seeing enemy versus friend. Nothing was taken at face value. Everything was subject to scrutiny.

And yet he had a soft side, like a favorite piece of clothing, worn so often the threads had grown supple, hugging the body in sweet familiarity. Rena saw that Iphicles' strength was in his weakness. Like the quilt of small pieces, when the rending and mending was done, it was stronger and more beautiful than ever. Iphicles didn't need her help to come to the right decision; it was already in him, coming together perfectly.

She looked up sensing someone approaching, and saw Iolaus hesitate under the archway that led into her sewing room. She met his eyes, nodding and watched as he approached the bench on which she sat.

"May I sit next to you, your highness? He spoke quietly.

Rena could see the lines of exhaustion etched around his eyes, drawing his mouth down, his shoulders usually so straight and broad now sloping slightly.

"My vest and pants," he started.

"Being cleaned. You'll have them back shortly." Rena continued joining the pieces. "Did you enjoy the bath?"

Iolaus nodded. "Thank you." He shifted uncomfortably next to Rena.

She set down her sewing and turned to Iolaus, letting her penetrating gaze fall upon him and raised an eyebrow questioningly.

"What is with Iphicles?" He asked, not bothering to hide his frustration. "This is the chance of a lifetime. Jason meant for it to be him, but still he doubts."

"Not doubts," Rena explained. "He questions. He considers. He weighs his options." She paused, looking into Iolaus' eyes. "He's a king now Iolaus. There are no snap decisions."

"Jason is offering him honor and trust. Why does he hesitate?"

Rena stared across at Iolaus, speaking gently. "Iphicles has lived in the shadow of others for a long time. To accept being king of Corinth is a big responsibility. And Iolaus, a big responsibility is not accepted without due consideration. Iphicles is simply making the decision that is best for everyone. Trust him," she added. "Just as Jason has."

"But Rena, time is short." Iolaus began,

"He knows that." Rena answered simply.

Iolaus rose suddenly, pacing restlessly, his slippered feet scuffing on the floor and a hand rubbing over his mouth and chin. Rena knew Iphicles the man, the king. He knew Iphicles as the child, the rebellious teen who both loved and resented Hercules. Years had passed, Iphicles had grown and Iolaus had to admit that he hadn't even recognized Iphicles when they'd first encountered him posing as Hercules to impress Rena. Iphicles had left home a broken child and returned a man to be crowned in glory. He had learned from his pain and suffering and gained both strength and character.

Iolaus nodded as much to himself as to Rena. "Thank you for helping me to understand."

"We are all different things to different people," Rena observed. "I see Iphicles' strengths, because that's how I've know him."

"You'll make an excellent Queen of Corinth." Iolaus smiled knowingly down at the seated Rena.

"Yes," she smiled back. "And when Iphicles comes out you'll find two chariots and two fine teams of horses waiting for us all to speed back to my mother-in-law's wedding before it's too late."

Iolaus shook his head in surprise. Iphicles had chosen well. He hoped the two of them would reign for many long and prosperous years, uniting Phlegra and Corinth and their protectorates.

"Um, maybe you could send someone to tell Dearcy to get ready. I'd hate to have to wait for her to finish and get dressed," Iolaus asked, knowing that a princess probably wouldn't be very quick getting ready for a royal wedding.

"Again, done." Rena smiled. "A lovely dress and a maid to do her hair are already at her side."

"Thanks," Iolaus said, wondering if she was always this intuitive. "I'm sure Iphicles will want to talk with you alone when he makes his decision." Iolaus turned to the door.

Rena smiled and picked up her quilting.

**

Iphicles strode across the room. He would not let the past dictate the future. The decision was not so much about him, but about two kingdoms and what was right for them. That decision was easy to make. Rena would feel the same way. Chariots must be made ready, and quickly too. But before he left, he must address the people of Phlegra, make them a part of this as well. They had chosen him as King and he wouldn't let them find out something this important from anyone other than himself.

Iphicles pulled the door open and purposefully went in search of a messenger.

**

"People of Phlegra," Iphicles addressed his subjects. "Today we have been asked, by King Jason of Corinth to join his mighty kingdom as both a protectorate and an equal. I, your king will be the new ruler of Corinth, uniting both and leading us into a new era. Rena and I go to represent you, to protect you, to insure your continued prosperity and safety. And I vow to you all that I will die for you if need be, you are my people, my subjects and most importantly my friends and family." Iphicles paused smiling proudly as his eyes dampened.

The crowd at the castle steps murmured, turning to each other in surprise and finally as one they broke forth with a cheer.

"Iphicles! Iphicles! Iphicles!"

Rena smiled up at her husband, squeezing his arm tightly and reassuringly. He looked so regal, so handsome and so in control. She'd known for quite some time that would never have been happy as the wife of Hercules, but would live out her dreams at the side of Iphicles, every bit the king.

Iphicles raised his hands to silence the crowd. "I must leave now to assume the monarchy before Sunset. I wish I had more time to tell you all how important you are to me, and to Rena, but the stability of our two kingdoms depends on my haste."

The people nodded approval and spoke softly among themselves. Then silently they parted, leaving an aisle for Iphicles and Rena to descend, stretching out as a living wall all the way from the castle steps to the chariots, an honor guard far more touching than any row of soldiers could have been.

Iphicles swallowed hard, pushing back the feeling that he wasn't worth this honor, telling himself that he had earned the trust of the people and would do the same with the Corinthians. With a nod of his head he stepped first into the aisle created by his subjects.

**

The chariot seemed to fly down the road to Corinth. Iolaus barely noticed the bumps in the road even though Dearcy held onto the side looking a little green. Iphicles was ahead with Rena dressed royally, the fastest horses in Phlegra at his command. Iolaus was simply glad not to be running back, never mind that his steeds were second best. It was more important that Iphicles arrive in time.

He watched as Iph drove the horses with authority, Rena sure footed next to him in spite of the roughness of the road and the cloud of dust that rose from the chariot wheels and horses hooves. Behind them a contingent from Phlegra accompanied their king, pleased to be asked to be part of the royal party and willing to lay down their lives to protect their ruler, the man who would unite them with one of the most powerful cities in Greece. This could only bring them more prosperity, and even more men in the Kingdom would have ridden with the king, if only they'd been able.

Iphicles tried to keep his mind on the road. It wouldn't do to drive the chariot over a rock or fallen branch and maybe lose a wheel or break an axel. He had a responsibility, to Jason King of Corinth, to his mother, to his wife, to the people of two kingdoms. And Iphicles had learned from Rena that accepting responsibility was the measure of a man. Personal feelings needed to be put aside when considering the greater good. Perhaps that was what had helped his mother to cope with the time they'd spent apart.

He felt Rena slip her soft arm around his waist. Everything happened for a reason. They'd be in Corinth before the sun was at its zenith. Time moved on and those who didn't move with it were dead. Before sunset the two kingdoms would be united. His mother would be with the man she had chosen to spend her life with, his friend Jason would be with the woman he would give up a kingdom for, and Rena would be the powerful Queen she deserved to be.

He flicked his wrist, urging the team forward faster.

Fini

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