Disclaimer: I don't own Young Hercules (or Hercules: the Legendary Journeys for that matter) nor am I one of the show's distributors or producers. I'm borrowing the characters for this story, have done so with love and care and haven't been paid for writing this story. I claim ownership to the characters that I created, however, and ask that anyone who wants to borrow them email me for my permission. Thank you for your understanding and enjoy! If you want to see some pics drawn of my characters, click hereor here. I want to thank my best friend, Serena, for hooking me up with these pictures! :)
"How much farther?" Zenobia whined. "This horse isn't easy to ride, you know."
Kalina brushed aside a few strands of her auburn hair. "Would you rather walk like Takis and me?" she retorted. "I'd happily ride that grumpy, old horse any day."
Zenobia frowned at the choices she had been given. "I don't want to be stuck on this horse," she said, "but I will not walk."
"Don't expect me to carry you, child," Takis announced. "With the heat wave that's hitting all of Greece, any extra strain would make even the strongest man faint."
"We'll be there before nightfall," Kalina stated, "as long as we keep going on this path. The heat will pass; we can do this."
Takis nodded and wiped the sweat from his bald head. "A friend told me Cheiron is looking for more help since attendance to the Academy has risen," he added. "All this will be worth it when we arrive."
"But I'm tired, sore and hungry," Zenobia whined. She was a spoiled brat to say the least, but Takis and Kalina put up with her nonetheless because she was their friend.
"We'll stop when we reach an inn. Until then," Kalina said, "stop whining. It could be worse."
Suddenly, two young men charged past the trio knocking Kalina over and startling their horse. One of the boys turned back to apologize. Kalina leapt up and brushed herself off before helping Zenobia calm their horse.
"That was rude of you," snapped Zenobia. "One of us could have been hurt . . . or worse."
"I'm sorry," the boy said. "My name is Judas. And you are?"
"I'm Takis from Corinth. These two are Kalina and Zenobia from Athens," Takis replied. "Are you from Cheiron's Academy?"
"Yes," Judas said, "My friend, Nikos, and I are headed there now. That's why we were in a hurry. Cheiron won't appreciate us being late."
"Don't let us keep you from getting back," offered Kalina. "We can take care of this."
"Hopefully this won't make us late in getting to the Academy," Zenobia angrily added.
The blond boy Judas had called Nikos looked at the trio with curiosity. "Why would you be headed for the Academy?"
"For work," Takis replied, noting the tone Nikos had used. "We heard Cheiron could use a few hired hands."
Judas ran his fingers through his dark hair and nodded. "I'm sure he could," he said. "We'll see you there." He quickly ushered his friend away before any trouble began.
Takis nodded and picked up the items tossed from the packs on their horse. Zenobia glared at the exiting pair and shook her head. Once everything was back in its rightful place, Takis suggested they continue on their way.
Zenobia reluctantly agreed. "I suppose we won't be stopping now," she added.
"No," replied Kalina, "we'll still make the stop. Cheiron will be expecting us now so it won't matter when we arrive."
"How do you figure that?" asked Zenobia as they started on their trek again.
"Judas and Nikos will no doubt tell him about running into us on their way to the Academy," explained Kalina. Her blue eyes were fixed on the path ahead of them. "Cheiron will know we're coming."
*** *** ***
"This is the third time this week that the two of you have been late for training exercises," Cheiron informed the breathless cadets before him. "What excuse do you have for me today?"
Nikos stepped forward. "It's my fault. I asked Judas to go. I got word last night that my father is ill. I had to see if he was all right. I never thought we'd end up coming back late," he explained. "Don't punish Judas. It was my idea to leave without telling you first."
"We would have been here sooner," Judas added, "but we bumped into some people who were also on their way here."
Cheiron sighed. He felt sorry for the boys and he knew that Nikos' story checked out. "One more time and I'll be forced to remove you both from the Academy," he said. The boys happily ran off the catch up on their missed lessons.
*** *** ***
The meal at the inn had been satisfying enough to keep Zenobia quiet as they continued to the Academy. They, however, picked up an extra traveler on the way -- Menelaus, the Prince of Sparta. He, too, was on his way to the Academy so they didn't see any harm in letting him travel with them.
Menelaus, however, couldn't keep his mouth shut and this was beginning to annoy Kalina. She promised herself that she wouldn't let her temper get the best of her, but she was certain she couldn't take much more of Menelaus' incessant chatter. Just when Kalina thought she would snap, she saw the Academy was just in front of them. Thanking the gods for this good fortune, Kalina felt herself pick up the pace, nearly running towards the building.
"Have we finally made it?" Zenobia asked.
Kalina nodded enthusiastically. "Yes," she said. "Now get off that horse and walk to the door like the rest of us."
Before Zenobia could argue, Takis helped her off the horse. The four rushed to get to the Academy before nightfall. The building was still in the distance, but it was well within their sight. In another five minutes, they'd finally arrive at Cheiron's Academy.
"I've never been so glad to see a building in my life," Kalina whispered to Takis. "If I had to listen to one more of Menelaus' stories, I'd kill him."
Takis laughed. "And you thought Zenobia was talkative," he softly replied.
"I only put up with her is because I've taken her under my protection," Kalina retorted.
"How much farther?" Zenobia whined.
"We're almost there," replied Menelaus.
*** *** ***
"Who is that lovely creature?" Ares asked as he watched from his perch in a tree. With him was his nephew, Strife.
"Well, she's on her way to the Academy," Strife replied. "She's probably -- which one are you talking about?"
"The little one with the red hair," Ares said. "If we play our cards right, we could use her to our advantage."
"Maybe you could call in some favors and . . ."
"You're on to something, Strife. I could get Morpheus to give her nightmares. Horrible, terrifying . . . prophetic nightmares."
"Prophetic?" Strife said. "You mean she'd see the future?"
"Not only would she see it, but she'd be powerless to stop it because I'd be the one controlling the whole thing," Ares answered, "and I'd only help her on one condition."
"What would that be, Unc?"
Ares rolled his eyes at the poor excuse for a god next to him. "She'd have to kill Hercules."
*** *** ***
Cheiron welcomed the newcomers inside. He wasn't sure why there, but Cheiron happily welcomed them nonetheless. Another of the cadets quickly took Menelaus off to the dorm. Zenobia nervously shifted her weight waiting for someone to speak.
"Why are you here?" Cheiron finally asked.
"We were hoping to get work," answered Kalina. "We heard you were looking to hire some new help around here."
Cheiron thoughtfully nodded. "Yes. Well, a rolling stone gathers no moss," he enigmatically replied as he turned to leave.
Takis lightly nudged Kalina. "He wants us to follow him."
Zenobia followed behind the others. "Well, he sure has an odd way of telling us that."
*** *** ***
The tour of the Academy was winding down. The only places left to see were the dorm and their quarters. Cheiron led them to the dorm where two of the cadets appeared to be arguing. They slowly made their way toward the commotion.
"This is my bunk," one shouted.
Suddenly, a pillow flew at Kalina, hitting her on the head. "Who shot that?" she yelled over the mounting chaos.
Menelaus turned to face Kalina only to be hit by another flying pillow. "That's real mature of you," he said to Judas.
"Look, little boy," retorted Judas, "the bed you want is mine. If you don't mind, I want you to get your things off of it now."
Kalina took a step forward. "So. You're the culprit," she said. "I don't appreciate being smacked by stray pillows. Now, if you don't mind, I want an apology and then tell me what seems to be the problem."
"Why don't you stay out of this?" Nikos growled.
"I was hit by one of Judas's flying pillows. I figure I deserve an apology at the very least and an explanation would be nice as well," Kalina answered with a smile. "So. Who's gonna explain this mess to me? Anyone will do as long as I find out the truth."
"I set my things down and suddenly I'm accused of trying to steal his bunk," Menelaus blurted out. "I wasn't trying to take anything, but . . ."
"And what do you have to say about this, Judas?" asked Kalina.
"It's my bed and his stuff doesn't belong on it."
"Why don't the two of you settle this like men?" suggested Kalina. Both boys immediately prepared to fight. "I guess fighting is one way to put an end to this, but it wasn't what I had in mind," Kalina said.
"You said we should settle this like men so we are," Menelaus replied.
"It was your idea," added Judas.
"That's strange because Takis is a man and he'd never settle his differences through violence -- unless it was a last resort," Kalina began, "and my brother, David, would never use violence to settle a disagreement unless it was the only choice presented to him. As far as I can see, there are other choices."
"Like what?" Menelaus asked, letting down his guard. As he did, Judas punched him in the stomach. Judas laughed and knocked Menelaus to the ground.
"Obviously some of you don't listen," Kalina commented. "That could be a problem." She quickly separated Judas and Menelaus. "Use a little common sense, Judas."
"He can't," someone shouted. "That would mean he'd have to actually think." A wave of laughter filled the room.
"And anyone who'd say something like that without showing his face can't have much courage," Nikos said.
"Keep your mouth shut, Nikos," Kalina angrily retorted. She let Judas go only to have him pounce on Menelaus again. "By the gods! Judas, don't you listen?" Kalina cried in frustration. She pulled Judas off of Menelaus again and punched him with all her might.
Judas crumpled to the floor. The other cadets took a step back. Nikos lunged at Kalina, but she dodged him in time. Nikos slid across the floor for a moment before getting up.
"This is stupid, Nikos," Kalina announced. "You have no idea what you're up against."
"Doesn't matter," replied Nikos. "You're gonna get what you deserve."
"I don't want to hurt you," Kalina declared. "Just let it go. It's not worth it."
Hercules took a step forward to come to Kalina's defense. "She's right," he chimed in. "Menelaus can find another bed and Judas will be fine." He reached out to calm Nikos. "This isn't worth it."
Nikos brushed Hercules' h and away and slowly backed down. "You'll get yours one day, little girl," he said, "and if you're wrong, you will, too, Hercules."
Kalina rolled her eyes at Nikos. "Thank you," she said, turning towards Hercules. "I'm Kalina. What's your name?"
"Oh, I'm Hercules," he replied. "You're, uh, pretty strong. No one's been able to knock Judas out with one punch before. Well, except for me."
Kalina laughed. "If you said that to impress me, don't bother, Hercules," she stated. "I'm more impressed by brains. My father taught me that a quick mind and big heart are two of the most important things anyone can possess."
"So, who's this wonderful man you call a father and where can I get one just like him?"
Kalina's face darkened at Hercules' joke. "I should be going," she softly said. "It was nice meeting you, Hercules." She rushed off to find Cheiron and the others.
"Nice one, Herc," Iolaus jested. "What did you say to make her run off like that?"
"I just asked about her dad."
"You don't suppose her dad's a god," Jason suggested, "do you?"
"That might be why she didn't want to talk about it," added Iolaus.
"Well, that would be a first," Hercules mused.
"What?" asked Iolaus.
"She said her father taught her to prize wisdom and a good heart above strength."
"So?" Jason said.
"When's the last time you heard a god believed in that," retorted Hercules.
*** *** ***
"What's bothering you?" Zenobia asked as she entered the stable.
Kalina turned away from the horse she had been grooming. "It doesn't concern you."
Zenobia pulled a stool over by Kalina and sat down. "We're friends, Kalina and friends tell each other their problems," she replied. "Now, start talkin'."
Kalina shook her head. "It's nothing I can't handle."
"If it's about Hercules," Zenobia said, "I heard his father is Zeus. Now, there's something the two of you could talk about."
Kalina stared at her young friend. "H-hi-his father is Zeus? The King of the Gods Zeus?"
Zenobia slowly nodded. "That's what I heard."
"Well, then, it's just gossip. Until Hercules tells me himself, I refuse to believe it."
"If I were you, I wouldn't be so shy about who my father was with Hercules. He's the first person you've met who might understand what you're going through," Zenobia stated. "Don't be afraid of people's reaction. If they truly want to be your friend, it won't bother them."
"If you mean people like you and Takis, well, Takis was ordered to keep an eye on me and I was the one who decided to take you in," Kalina replied. "Neither of you had much of a choice in the matter."
Zenobia rolled her eyes and stood up. "You wanna know something? I'm your friend because you've been good to me. It doesn't matter to me that your father is . . ."
"Shut up!" Kalina shouted. "Don't you dare say his name."
Zenobia picked up the stool and set it aside. "Why can't I say his name?"
"Just don't," Kalina begged. "Please don't."
"Whatever you say," Zenobia replied. "I don't understand what's so bad about who your father is. Kalina, he's a god. You should be proud of that."
"Why? When people find out, they give me strange looks and wonder how it happened. They push me around in hopes of being able to boast to others they beat up the child of a god. I walk around knowing they talk about me behind my back. I never know who my friends really are. What's so great about that?" Kalina nearly shouted.
Zenobia turned to walk away. "There are some things about us that we can't change and hiding that part of us eat us up inside," she said. "It's about time you tell someone this secret you've been hiding for so long before it eats away at your soul."
*** *** ***
Kalina couldn't sleep so she snuck out of the room she and Zenobia shared. She quietly made her way outside in hopes that some fresh air would help her sleep. As she opened the door, Kalina felt that she wasn't the only one outside. She looked around and found the other person who must have shared her idea.
Walking over towards the other person, Kalina wondered if going to talk to him would be a good idea. After the fight she had had with Zenobia, Kalina knew it would be likely that she'd tell the first person she saw about it. However, she continued towards the person.
"Excuse me," she softly said.
The person turned around. It was Hercules. "Hi," he replied.
"What are you doing out here?"
"I could ask you the same thing," Hercules said.
"Oh. Right," Kalina replied. She could feel herself blushing. "I couldn't sleep. I thought some fresh air might help."
"Sounds like we both have the same problem then," Hercules stated.
"Yea, it does," Kalina said nervously. "So. Uh, I, uh, I heard that you were . . . well, that you are the son of a god. I heard that you're the son of Zeus. Is that true?"
Hercules turned away from Kalina. "And if it is?"
"I was wondering," she replied. "I was hoping you'd tell me the truth. It's kind of important that I know."
"Why?" Hercules said. "Besides, it's none of your business."
Kalina took a deep breath. "I think it is my business," she retorted. "I think it's my business because then we'd share the same . . . well, I think it's a misfortune, but there are others who think it's a blessing."
Hercules turned back towards her. "What are you talking about?"
"My father is Hades," she said. "I know it sounds crazy, but I'm the child of a god. I know there's others out there who have a parent who's a god, but this is the first time I've met one who's my age. Someone who understands what I'm going through better than any of the others."
"Who . . ."
"Zenobia said she had heard you're Zeus' son," Kalina answered before Hercules could finish asking. "She thought I should tell you about my father. She also thinks that anyone who judges me on who my father is doesn't deserve to be my friend and she thinks that being the child of a god is something I should readily announce to the world, but she . . ."
"She doesn't understand," Hercules finished. "She doesn't know what it's like to have people point and stare and talk behind your back. She doesn't know what it's like to know that everyone's whispering about you when you walk into a village. She doesn't understand how cruel people can be."
"Exactly," Kalina said. "I tried to tell her, but she won't listen. Zenobia thinks that being the child of a god doesn’t change people's perception of who I am. She doesn't understand that when they find out, they treat me differently . . . one way or another and I don't want that. I want to be treated like everyone else."
Hercules cleared his throat. "Earlier, when you were talking to me about what your father taught you to value most in a person, where you talking about Hades?"
Kalina slowly nodded her head. "He's not a bad person when you get to know him, but his reputation gets in the way. I met him a few times. The first time we met I was really young. He's tried to spend one day a year with me since we met."
"I wish my father did that," Hercules softly said.
"Don't blame yourself for Zeus not meeting you," Kalina said. "Maybe he's busy or he's waiting until he sees you're ready to meet him. The gods work in mysterious ways."
"You're telling me," Hercules laughed.
"Why don't I talk to my father next time I see him about you meeting Zeus? I'm not making any promises, Hercules, but maybe Hades could convince Zeus to see you."
"I won't hold my breath," Hercules sourly replied.
"I said I'm not making any promises," Kalina playfully retorted.
Hercules remained silent for a few minutes. He had so many questions, but he didn't know where to begin. She had met her father and it was something he wanted to hear about. "Look, uh, if you don't mind too much, would you tell me what it was like meeting Hades for the first time?" he finally asked.
Kalina smiled. "I was six. The man I called 'father' died a year earlier. My mom passed away a short time later. Before she died, she told me who my father really was. I always knew David and I didn't have the same father, but I never thought my father was a god," Kalina explained. "After my mom died, I was lost. David tried his best to console me, but it never worked. One day, when David was away, Hades showed up. Neither of us knew what to say at first. Finally, he told me about how he met my mother and how he fell in love with her. He and I just talked. We talked about whatever I wanted to talk about. Before he left, Hades told me that my mother was fine and he promised to try to visit me once a year so we could talk."
"I wish I had that," Hercules softly said.
"You shouldn't wish for things that other people have, Hercules," Kalina scolded him. "It only makes your situation seem worse. You still have your mother, right?"
Hercules nodded. "Yea, but . . ."
"But what? You have your mother. You've always had her. There are people who don't have mothers . . . and there are plenty of people who don't have fathers either. You're not the first and you won't be the last," Kalina said. "Stop wishing to know him. When you least expect it, when you finally let go of that wish, Zeus will come. Right now, what you have is all you need."
*** *** ***
"I wasn't able . . ."
"Don't tell me you weren't able to get to that little brat," Ares snapped. "You had every opportunity, Morpheus, and you squandered them. I asked you to do this one little favor for me and you can't even do that!"
Morpheus glared at Ares. "She isn't asleep," he said, "and her will is too strong for me to force her. That is not my fault."
"She'll have to sleep sometime," Ares replied, "and when she does, do what I asked you to do. And don't ask any questions."
Morpheus slowly nodded his head. He really didn't want to get involved in any of Ares' little games, but he had no choice this time. Besides, he had his own little games to play. Despite this, Morpheus owed Ares and all Morpheus could do is follow the instructions Ares had given to him and stand back.
*** *** ***
Kalina deeply sighed as she finished scrubbing the kitchen floor. She knew she'd have to work hard at the Academy, but she never imagined she'd be working as hard as she was. She looked at the wonderful job she had done and knew that within a matter of minutes, it would be ruined. It usually was.
Slowly, she went outside to empty the bucket of soapy water she had with her. She sighed again as she heard Jason, Iolaus and Hercules enter the kitchen. She knew she wouldn't be able to warn them about the slippery floor in time so she slowly made her way back inside.
Iolaus wasn't paying very close attention as he walked into the kitchen. Within a matter of seconds, Iolaus was laying on his back. Jason and Hercules couldn't help but laugh. They carefully made their way into the kitchen and helped Iolaus to his feet.
Kalina walked in and heard their laughing. "So. Which one of you was the one to fall?"
Iolaus grumbled. "You should put up a sign or something when you wash the floors," he said. "A person could get hurt on a slippery floor."
"A person should pay attention to where they're going," Kalina replied, "and then they wouldn't get hurt on a slippery floor."
"Enjoying your first day at work," Jason asked.
"Don't make a mess in here," Kalina stated. "Cheiron may have asked you to make lunch for the cadets, but that doesn't mean you can make a mess of this kitchen."
"We won't," Jason said. "You have our word."
Kalina laughed. "I'm sure I do, but I don't trust you just yet. I'll stick around and make sure you don't make a mess of this place. I just cleaned it and I don't want to do it again." Kalina walked over to a corner of the kitchen and hopped onto a counter to sit. "Go ahead. Don't mind me. I'm just observing."
Jason walked over to Kalina. "Well, since you're here, maybe you cou ld help us out," he suggested. "I'm not saying you should do all the work, but we could use a little assistance. We're not exactly . . ."
"If you're trying to say that I'd do a better job than you three because I'm a girl, you're sadly mistaken," Kalina replied. "However, I guess I could lend a hand."
Iolaus nodded. "Good. Start by putting a sign up about the slippery floor."
Kalina laughed. "It's a little late for that, don't you think?"
*** *** ***
"Kalina, wait up!"
Kalina stopped and turned towards the now familiar voice calling her. "What is it, Hercules?" she asked.
"The guys and I want to thank you," Hercules explained. "We couldn't have done such a good job without your help. We owe you one."
Kalina shook her head. "I didn't help so you could owe me one. I did it because I wanted to and I knew you'd need the help," she told him. "Besides, I've seen the way the three of you clean up and I didn't want to have to do it because you made an even bigger mess than was there to begin with." She slightly smiled.
Hercules smiled in return. He was starting to like seeing Kalina smile. "Well, thanks," he said.
"It was my pleasure, Hercules," Kalina replied with a bigger smile. "The three of you have been so nice to me since I got here and I thank you for that. Anytime you need my assistance, just let me know."
"Uh, Kalina," Hercules began. "I was wondering if Cheiron's going to keep you working on the weekend."
"As far as I know, he isn't," Kalina answered. "Why?"
"Well, the guys and I were going to Corinth," Hercules explained. "Jason needs to take care of some things and well, I thought you'd like to come along. You know, you and your friends or whatever."
"Takis isn't the kind of guy who goes places just to go," Kalina replied, "but Zenobia would jump at the chance to get away from here."
"What about you?"
"Oh! Well, I'd go," Kalina stated. She nervously laughed. "I'd love to go actually."
"I'll tell the guys," Hercules said. "I'll, uh, let you get back to work. Um, we'll probably leave Friday night or something. I'll let you know."
Kalina brightly smiled. "All right. I'll make sure Zenobia hears the good news."
*** *** ***
Kalina finished scrubbing the last of the dinner dishes. She sighed as she put them all away. She had never been so glad to finish a job in her life. The only thing she wanted to do now was get into her bed and sleep. The other night she hadn't gotten much sleep, but tonight would be different. Kalina could tell.
She quietly made her way into the room and climbed into her bed. Kalina blew out the candle she had taken with her for light and made herself comfortable. Closing her eyes, Kalina hoped sleep wouldn't be a problem for her on this night. Two nights in a row without sleep and Kalina wouldn't be able to do much the next day.
Morpheus waited until Kalina was finally asleep. He took a deep breath and did as Ares had asked of him. Morpheus made sure that Kalina's dreams were anything but pleasant and, most importantly, prophetic. All that was left was for Ares to do his job and make sure that all Kalina's dreams came true with horrifying results.
*** *** ***
Kalina awoke the next morning feeling frightened and very nervous. Something about the dreams that she had unnerved her a great deal. She just couldn't put her finger on the problem. She dressed and went to the kitchen as usual.
Hercules was the first person to see her that morning. He was worried about the way that she looked. "Are you all right?" he asked.
Kalina slowly turned towards him. "Uh, I think so," she replied. "I just had some strange dreams last night. I'll be all right."
Hercules slowly nodded. "If you're sure you're all right, I'll get going." He turned and made his way to the doorway.
"Wait!" Kalina shouted.
Hercules turned around and walked back to Kalina. "What is it?"
"Uh, I don't know. I just don't think it's safe for you to walk out that door," Kalina nervously replied. "That's all. Just wait here awhile."
Hercules nodded. "Sure," he said. "I'll just wait here for awhile."
Just as Hercules finished his statement, a boulder slammed into the door. Iolaus came rushing in a few moments later.
"You missed it," Iolaus said. "This boulder got loose and came hurtling down towards the kitchen door."
Hercules looked at Kalina, then to Iolaus. "I-it did?" he asked. "Was anyone hurt?"
"No," Iolaus replied. "Luckily no one was outside at the time."
"Yea," Hercules said. "Luckily no one was outside at the time."
*** *** ***
"Something very strange is going on here," Hercules said.
"What do you mean?" Jason asked.
"This morning when I was about to leave the kitchen . . . after checking on Kalina, she suddenly shouted for me to stop before leaving," Hercules began.
"Yea, so. She likes you and didn't want you to leave," Iolaus reasoned.
"No, that's not it," Hercules replied. "Just after I went back towards her that boulder came crashing into the back door. It's like she knew it was coming."
"So?" Jason said.
"So, she's never done anything like that before," said Hercules. "She said she had some weird dreams last night. Maybe they weren't just weird."
"What do you mean?" Iolaus asked.
"Maybe she saw what was going to happen today in her dreams last night," Hercules answered. "It's the only way she would've know about the boulder."
"So how are we going to find out the truth?" Iolaus asked. "Obviously that's the reason you're telling us this."
"I don't know Morpheus very well, but I think Hephaestus can help," Hercules said. "I'm going tonight to see him. If I'm not back by morning, make up some excuse for me."
*** *** ***
Kalina was exhausted. She had spent most of the day keeping people from small disasters. The same ones she had seen in her dreams the night before. She sighed and climbed into bed early. Kalina could barely keep her eyes open.
Ares stood in the corner of the room and watched Kalina drift off to sleep. He had allowed her to prevent the small disasters of the day, but tomorrow would be a different story. Nothing would go right and she just might lose a friend.
*** *** ***
Hercules arrived back just before dawn. He wasn't able find Hephaestus anywhere. He sighed and snuck back into the Academy before anyone woke up.
Kalina yawned and stretched. She was up earlier than usual, but she felt refreshed. Her dreams had been as strange as the night before, but she was confident that she could prevent many of the events from taking place. One that was particularly important to her was the death of Takis. She couldn't tell who had killed him, but if these dreams were anything like the ones from the night before, Kalina knew she'd know when it was about to occur.
She quietly slipped out of her bed and took her time getting ready for the day. Kalina felt like she was being watched, however, and she scanned the room for any extra occupants. Not seeing any, Kalina ignored the feeling and dressed as usual. Shortly after she finished dressing, Zenobia awoke.
"You're up early," Zenobia commented as she stretched.
"I know," Kalina said. "I just couldn't lie in bed any longer. I had to get up."
Zenobia opened one of the windows in their room. "Looks like it's going to be a beautiful day today," she said. "Maybe that's why you couldn't sleep."
Kalina smiled. The sun had just begun to rise in the morning sky. "It does look like it's going to be a beautiful day," she replied. "Get ready. We have a lot of work to get done if we want to enjoy it."
*** *** ***
For some reason, Judas kept following Kalina around. It wasn't something Kalina had expected and it was getting annoying. She tossed a wet cloth to Judas as he stood in the doorway of the kitchen, staring at her.
"Since you seem to like following me around, why don't you help?" Kalina suggested. "Start washing. The sooner I get this done, the sooner we can talk."
Hercules walked in with a pile of dirty dishes. He placed them in the sink and started to walk away. Before he did, he noticed Judas scrubbing the counter next to Kalina. "What's going on?"
"Judas decided to use the time he had been wasting to help me clean the kitchen," Kalina replied. "Don't ask me. I don't know why either."
Hercules chuckled to himself. "Takis told me to he could use your help in the stables later," he stated. "Maybe it's a good thing Judas is following you around today."
Kalina nodded and finished up what she was doing. She quickly got to work on the dishes Hercules had brought in. "Can you talk and wash at the same time or would you rather do one at a time?" she lightly asked.
Judas looked at her curiously. "I-I thought you might need a little help," he replied. "Hercules certainly won't help you."
"If I needed help, I would've asked for it, Judas," Kalina retorted. "And as for Hercules, he'd help me if I asked."
"That's what you think," Judas muttered under his breath.
Kalina stopped washing the dishes and turned towards Judas. "Look. If you have something to say," she angrily announced, "don't keep it to yourself. Please -- share it with me."
Judas stopped what he was doing and threw the damp cloth at Kalina. "Do your dirty work yourself, little girl," he replied. "That'll be the last thing I ever do for you. If you'd rather have him help you, I'll let him know."
"Who are you talking about?"
"Hercules," Judas stated. "He follows you around with those puppy dog eyes and you never seem to care. I follow you around and you get upset! I guess I can't compete with him in your eyes."
"Wait just a minute, Judas," Kalina said. "If you think that I don't like you or that you can't compete with Hercules, that's one thing, but don't accuse me of being the one that causes you to feel inferior. Hercules is my friend. If you want to be my friend, too, you're going to have to put aside your petty insecurities about Hercules."
"Hercules isn't as amazing and wonderful as you think, Kalina," Judas retorted. "Just wait. You'll see. He's nothing like you wish he'd be."
*** *** ***
Kalina slowly made her way toward the stables. She was no more than three feet away when she suddenly recalled her dream. She took a deep breath as she walked inside.
It was eerily quiet. Kalina stopped in her tracks to listen. She could hear only breathing. Not just her own, but the breathing of several other people.
"Takis," Kalina called. "Takis, where are you?"
There was no answer.
"Takis, this isn't funny. Where are you?"
Still nothing.
Kalina strained to hear the erratic breathing coming from one of the stalls. She rushed towards the sound. Kalina gasped as she saw Takis lying on his stomach in the stall. He was barely breathing.
She quickly rolled him over. There weren't any superficial wounds, but Kalina knew Takis was dying. She checked his pulse and felt it slowing down.
Someone walked up behind her. "What's this?"
Kalina turned towards the voice. "Judas! Oh, thank the gods," she blurted out. "You have to get Cheiron. Takis is . . ."
"Takis is dead," Judas spat back.
"No, no," Kalina desperately replied. "We can save him. You just have to get Cheiron."
"We don't have to do anything," Nikos stated. "This is what you get for spurning my friend." He walked over to the stall and dumped out a pail of water next to Takis.
"What did you do to him?" Kalina angrily shouted.
"He asked for a drink of water," Judas calmly began.
"And we gave it to him," concluded Nikos.
Kalina stared at the puddle near her. "You poisoned him?"
Nikos laughed. "It was the only way."
"What? Why?" Kalina cried in frustration.
"This is your first warning," replied Nikos with a wicked grin on his face. "Hercules isn't worth this. Learn that now or next time it'll be worse." He motioned for Judas to follow him and the pair exited the stable.
Kalina stared at the puddle for a moment before cradling the nearly lifeless body of her friend in her arms. "I'm so sorry, Takis," she whispered. "Your death won't go without vengeance. I promise you that."
*** *** ***
"What's wrong with Kalina?" Iolaus asked.
Menelaus walked towards the boys before anyone could answer. "Have you guys seen Takis?"
"He was in the stable," Jason replied. "You might try looking for him there."
"Thanks," Menelaus replied. "By the way, what's wrong with Kalina?"
"We don't know," Jason said.
Hercules started walking away. "I'm going to see what's going on," he announced.
"Let me go with you," Menelaus stated. He followed after Hercules.
"Kalina, what's wrong?" Hercules asked once he reached her.
"Come with me," said Kalina. She led them to the stables.
"What going on?" Hercules asked when he saw a couple of cadets in one of the stalls. Cheiron was looking on.
"It's Takis," Kalina sullenly replied. "He's dead. I found him like this."
Hercules wasn't convinced. "Let's go talk about it," he offered. Kalina nodded as Hercules led her out of the stable. "What really happened?" he asked.
Kalina watched the ground as she walked with Hercules. "I don't want to . . ."
"I'm your friend. I want to know."
"I can't," Kalina said. "You wouldn't understand, Hercules. You couldn't understand." She stormed off before Hercules could say another word.
Iolaus and Jason walked over by Hercules. They watched as Kalina angrily walked away.
"So?" Iolaus said.
"Takis is dead," Hercules replied.
"How?" Jason asked.
"She knows, but she won't tell me," Hercules answered. "She won't tell anyone."
*** *** ***
Kalina stared at the lake before here. "Why?" she whispered. "Why Takis?" She felt the tears fall as she furiously tossed pebbles into the water.
Ares suddenly materialized next to her. "All the tears in the world won't bring your friend back," he calmly announced.
Kalina stood up and faced the god. "What do you care?"
"I know you've been having prophetic dreams lately," replied Ares. "You couldn't have stopped Nikos and Judas. Even the warning you got wasn't enough."
"This is my problem not yours," Kalina spat back.
"Let me introduce myself," Ares declared. "I am Ares -- god of war. Now, I'm not the god you need to fix your problem, but I could call in a few favors and make your nightmares go away."
"I'll let you know," Kalina said spitefully.
"Be here at this time tomorrow with your answer," Ares replied. "By the way, there's one condition to this offer of mine. You'll have to do me a favor first."
Kalina narrowed her eyes on the god. "What do you want from me?"
Ares mischievously smiled. "I want you to kill Hercules."
*** *** ***
Kalina ambled around until she reached a large field of flowers. She had no idea how far she had wandered. Still she stood in awe of the beauty before her. Any of the anger and guilt still inside her ceased to exist as Kalina took in her surroundings.
"It's beautiful here, isn't it?"
Kalina spun around to find Hades standing behind her. "I - well, actually, yes," she replied. "Why are you here?"
"Takis was my friend as well, Kalina. I've come to offer you my condolences," said Hades.
"He's in a better place, isn't he?"
"Of course he is," Hades answered. "Takis was a good man. You should know that he's happy where he is now."
"But why did he have to die?" Kalina cried. "I don't understand, father."
Hades pulled his daughter into his arms and held her tightly as she cried. "I don't know why he died, but obviously it was his time to go," soothed Hades. "Don't blame yourself for his death. There was nothing you could've done to prevent it."
Kalina pushed away from her father. "I-I knew about it," she explained. "Last night, I saw it in my dream. I thought I could stop it, but I . . ."
"It's all right."
"Ares offered to help me," she blurted out. "I know I wasn't meant to see these things and he said he could help, but I'm not sure I should."
"Why not?" asked Hades. "If he can help, you should take his assistance."
"He wants me to do something for him in return, but I don't think I can."
"What does he want you to do?"
"Ares wants me to kill Hercules for him," she replied. "Hercules is my friend. I couldn't bring myself to kill him just to help myself."
Hades sighed. "Why don't you let me see what I can do first?" he offered. "If I don't come to see you tonight, then I can't help you."
"Thank you, father," Kalina exclaimed as she tightly embraced Hades.
"Get back to the Academy, my child," Hades announced. "I hope to see you tonight."
*** *** ***
Kalina impatiently waited outside for Hades. She desperately needed his help this time. As she waited, Kalina began to doubt that Hades was going to show. Sighing, she abandoned all hope and started to head back inside.
"Who were you waiting for?" Jason asked.
Kalina was startled by his sudden appearance. "No one. Now if you'll excuse me, I have some work to catch up on."
"Do you need any help?"
"No, I don't," Kalina curtly answered. "I can handle it myself."
"Fine," Jason said. "If you decide you could use some help, you know where to find me."
Kalina took a deep breath and watched as Jason walked away. "Father, where are you?" she whispered. "I need your guidance on this one. You've got to be able to help me."
*** *** ***
"How'd you sleep last night?" Zenobia asked.
Kalina yawned and forced a smile onto her face. "I didn't."
"You'll kill yourself that way," commented Zenobia as she dressed her bed. "Did Hercules tell you that we're leaving tonight?"
"No, but I don't think I'll go. With the way things are going, it'd best if I stayed behind."
Zenobia sighed. "Hercules won't go if you don't," she stated. "Besides, you could use the break."
"I'll think about it," Kalina replied. "If I do go, I'll have to meet up you guys along the way."
"Really? Why?"
"I have to meet someone this afternoon," said Kalina. "Well, let's get going so we can get everything done early."
*** *** ***
Ares stood by the lake waiting for Kalina to show up as she had promised. He knew how honorable Kalina was so he wasn't worried that she was late. She'd show up eventually.
Kalina slowly made her way towards the god. "I-I've been thinking about your offer, Ares," she said as she got closer.
"Of course you have," Ares replied. "What's your answer?"
"Well, I can't do what you want me to do," Kalina said.
"Oh really?" Ares asked. "And just why is that?
"Hercules is my friend," Kalina stated. "I can't just kill him. It wouldn't be right."
"I should've known better," Ares declared in mock-disappointment, "but I thought you'd know better than to cross me."
"I'd rather spend the rest of my life with these visions then to kill a friend for you!"
Ares shook his head. "You have no choice," he irately announced. "Kill him or I kill you."
Kalina stood her ground. "Do it," she told him. "Kill me now because I won't kill Hercules."
Ares threw a thunderbolt at Kalina causing her to fly back into a tree. He slowly walked towards Kalina. "You shouldn't have made me angry," he stated.
Kalina sat up and b raced herself for the next blow. Before Ares could strike, someone threw a small stone at him. Ares turned his attention toward the sudden interruption.
"Leave her alone," Zenobia shouted.
Ares growled. "Stupid mortal," he muttered.
"Zenobia, run," Kalina cried. "Get out of here now!"
Zenobia turned and ran off towards the woods. She stumbled right into Jason's arms.
"I take it he took the bait," Iolaus said.
"What does Ares want with Kalina?" Zenobia asked.
"I don't know, but he's not going to hurt her," Hercules replied.
"Yes, he will," Hades said as he appeared, "if I don't stop him."
"With all due respect," Jason said, "how are you going to stop Ares?"
"And why is he doing this?" added Zenobia.
"There's no time to explain," Hades retorted. "I want all of you to stay here until it's safe." Hades made his way over to Ares. Ares turned towards his uncle and laughed. "It's over, Ares," Hades announced.
"It's not over until I say it's over!"
"Morpheus has promised to return my daughter to her natural state as soon as possible," Hades declared. "You can't and you won't punish Kalina because she's a friend to Hercules. Don't blame her for your short-comings!"
"Stay out of this, Hades," shouted Ares. "This is none of your business."
"You threatened my daughter and used your influence to kill Takis," returned Hades. "This is my business. You made it my business."
As the two continued to argue, Morpheus worked his magic on the unconscious girl. He took back the gift he had bestowed upon Kalina. He'd rather use this power on someone else than on a little girl who knew nothing of true suffering. Before anyone noticed he was there, Morpheus was gone. Kalina slowly stirred as Hercules quietly crept over to her side.
"Are you all right?" Hercules whispered.
Kalina slightly grinned. "I am now," she replied.
Ares finally noticed Kalina had awakened. He instantly knew that any hold he had on the girl was gone now. "Morpheus," he angrily yelled, "you coward!"
"Stay away from my daughter," Hades said.
Ares glared at Hercules and Kalina. "This isn't over for either one of you," he stated. "I still have Nikos and Judas."
"As long as they remain as jealous of Hercules as you are," Kalina announced, "they'll be your faithful servants. Next time, I'll be ready for them . . . and you. It may not be over yet, but I'll make you wish it was."
Ares grumbled something unintelligible under his breath. Then he disappeared.
Hades quickly turned his attention to his injured child. "You'll be fine," he said after checking out her wounds. "You're a lot braver than I remembered you being."
"I've had to learn to be that way to survive," Kalina explained. "Thank you."
"And I thought I told you to stay behind until it was safe," Hades scolded Hercules.
"I thought you meant that the others should stay there," sai d Hercules.
Jason and the others cautiously walked over to the trio. They looked around to make sure the coast was clear.
"Is everything all right?" asked Jason.
"Of course," Kalina answered. "Was there ever any doubt?"
"So. This is your dad?" Iolaus said.
Kalina shyly smiled. "Yes," she replied, "and contrary to popular belief, Hades is a very compassionate and generous man."
"I know this might not be the best time to ask," Zenobia said, "but are we still going to Corinth?"
Everyone laughed and prepared to go. Hercules ushered the others off so Kalina could have a moment alone with her father. Before rushing after the others, Kalina tightly hugged her father. Hades uneasily returned his daughter's embrace.
"Come visit me again . . . soon," Kalina told him. "I like seeing you."
Hades nodded. "If I can get away, you know I will. Now go and have fun with your friends."
Kalina grinned and jogged away. "Don't ask what was going on," she announced after catching up with the others. "All I know is Ares had Morpheus give me the gift of prophecy in my dreams so he could use me to kill Hercules. That's it."
"That's definitely not the last we'll be seeing of Ares," Hercules said. "You can count on that."
"Until then, can we go to Corinth and enjoy yourselves?" Iolaus asked.
"I'm with Iolaus," said Jason.
Kalina sighed and smiled. "Then stop talking and let's do it!"
The End . . . for now!
