Winged Victory

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0><tr> <td valign="top" rowspan="2" width=210 BGCOLOR="#99CC99" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="0418dfc3.jpg"> <div> <B><IMG SRC="07cb6e50.jpg" border=0 width="182" height="229" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></B></div> <bR> <div> <B>Disclaimer:  This website and its contents are not intended to violate any copyrights.  These stories are written for the enjoyment of fans and will produce no monetary gain.  Some characters and situations used in these stories are owned by Renaissance, Universal, or MCA; anything else belongs to the individual authors.  Please do not reproduce, publish or otherwise use these works elsewhere without the author's permission.  </B></div> <bR> </td> <td valign="top" colspan=2 height=82 BGCOLOR="#CCCC99" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="0428dfe1esnpes.jpg"> <div> <FONT SIZE="5" COLOR="#336666" FACE="Arial" ><B>Hercules & Iolaus: The Legends Continue</B></FONT><B>     </B><B>|</B><B>     </B><A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Hercules Iolaus: The Legends Continue"><U><B>home</B></U></A></div> <div>                                                   </div> <div> </div> </td> </tr><tr> <td valign="top" height=398 colspan=2 BGCOLOR="#CCCC99" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="0428dfc3.jpg"> <div> <I>Winged Victory</I></div> <bR> <div> Episode 2005</div> <bR> <div> Written By: MaryE.</div> <bR> <div> Teaser</div> <bR> <bR> <div> "...18...19...20...come on, you can do it...21. </div> <bR> <div> The hunter collapsed flat on his back with his arms still crossed over his heaving chest.  His eyes closed against the sun, silently praying , hoping when he opened them again his semi-divine tormentor would  have disappeared. He winced as he heard the voice of his best friend again prodding him to exercise.</div> <bR> <div> "Iolaus, you're going to have to do better than that.  You've got to stay in shape.  We've got monsters and warlords to fight and you have to be faster than they are.  Let's go.  Give me four more sit-ups and I'll leave you alone until after lunch."</div> <bR> <div> "Herculeeeeess!" moaned the prone blond. When the demigod attempted to urge him on once more, Iolaus suddenly hopped to his feet faster than the blink of an eye. He stopped Hercules with a whispered "Shush...listen!"</div> <bR> <div> "What?"</div> <bR> <div> "Someone's coming and it doesn't feel right."</div> <bR> <div> A few seconds later, four very tall, regal-looking men walked out into the clearing, bowing low to the two heroes.</div> <bR> <div> "Sumerians..." a whispered gasp from the suddenly dry throat of the hunter.</div> <bR> <div> The men approached yet kept a respectful distance. Then they threw themselves on the ground in obeisance to Iolaus as they intoned "Oh, Exalted One..."</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus, stifled a very nervous grin and said, "This is Hercules.  It's to him you should be bowing."  To his amazement they immediately changed their positions, kneeling in front of the demigod.</div> <bR> <div> "Oh, Great One..." the men intoned.</div> <bR> <div> "Enough...enough!  Don't bow to me, please.  Get up and talk with us."</div> <bR> <div> As the men approached to talk, Iolaus warily took two steps back and stood slightly behind the demigod.</div> <bR> <div> "Now, what can we do for you gentlemen?"</div> <bR> <div> "Oh, Exalted One and Great One..."</div> <bR> <div> "Wait. Could you please just call me Hercules and this is my partner, Iolaus.  We'd prefer it if you used<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT>our names."</div> <bR> <div> "If it makes you happy Oh, Great One."</div> <bR> <div> "Yes, it makes us very happy.  Go on."</div> <bR> <div> "We have a grave problem in our country.  Because we were abandoned by our Sumerian gods and because of the resulting poor weather, we have had a very hard time in recovery.  Our great Queen Nebula has done so much to rebuild and help the people get over the loss of our Sumerian gods and the treachery of her brother, King Gilgamesh. Yet,  it was not enough to stop the famine that is now upon our land."</div> <bR> <div> "Nebula is a very able Queen and I'm sure she's working on ways to deal with the famine," injected the demigod.</div> <bR> <div> "This is true Oh Great...I mean Hercules.  She has mobilized most of the men and women of our country into an army of farmers, hunters and gatherers. We are using all the available manpower in Sumeria to fill the royal storage houses for equitable distribution of resources to all our peoples.  Our Queen is negotiating trade pacts with many of our neighbors and she is a wonder to behold at the bargaining tables."</div> <bR> <div> "I'll bet.  She could squeeze a dinar until it cried," mumbled the hunter under his breath.  But the vision of Nebula at a negotiating table amused him so much that it brought a nervous giggle to the surface that he just could not stifle. Then, Iolaus cleared his throat and interrupted the men with "<I>But ..."</I></div> <bR> <div> "Yes, Exalted One."</div> <bR> <div> "Iolaus"</div> <bR> <div> "Yes Iolaus, sir...It's a big <I>but.  </I>We are representatives of her Advisory Council.  The Council has asked her repeatedly to allow us to call on your help but she insists that she doesn't need any help, that she can handle this on her own."</div> <bR> <div> "Sounds just like Nebula," murmured the demigod to his partner.  Then addressing the delegation said, "If you are still of a mind that a woman can't handle this type of responsibility..."</div> <bR> <div> "No sir.  We have come a long way in our thinking this past year.  She is more than capable and we are so proud of our great Queen."</div> <bR> <div> <I>"But</I>..." encouraged Iolaus.</div> <bR> <div> "Things are complicated now. Our spies have discovered that two of our closest neighbors, at this moment, are planning to invade our country. They plan to take it over while we are in this weakened condition, with all of our available manpower set to the task of providing food for the people."</div> <bR> <div> "So, <I>now</I> Queen Nebula has sent for us?" inquired the hunter.</div> <bR> <div> "No, Exalt...Iolaus, sir.  We are here at the behest of the Council. We are working without the Queen's knowledge, if you will.  Please, good sirs, come and help us save our country."</div> <bR> <div> "No. I'm sorry but we can't help you this time.  We won't be returning to Sumeria," said the demigod as an involuntary shiver ran up his spine.</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus caught the small reaction and realized where the demigod's reluctance was coming from.  He knew of the nightmares Hercules continued to have, every once in a while, because of that experience. Yet, he couldn't let his partner refuse to help people in need because of what happened to his best friend so long ago.</div> <bR> <div> Broken and dejected, the men were turning to leave when the voice of  the hunter stopped them in their tracks.</div> <bR> <div> "Wait gentlemen.  Please sit and rest for a few minutes while I talk to my partner."</div> <bR> <div> The men gratefully dropped to the ground and looked hopefully at the blond bundle of energy that was pulling Hercules over to the privacy of a small clump of bushes several yards away.</div> <bR> <div> "What's this all about Hercules?  You've never refused to help anyone -- and this isn't just <I>anyone, </I>Herc.  This is Nebula and her people we're talking about here.  She didn't have to, but she helped you save my soul and set me free from Dahak's clutches. I owe her for that. So do you.  I'm not afraid, Hercules.  Not much anyway.  Going back there won't be pleasant, but I'm not backing down and you don't have to back down for my sake either." Iolaus then added, "Besides Herc, we're not going back there to do battle with their gods or with Dahak - - There aren't any gods left in Sumeria.  We'll be going back there to help people. That's what we do best."</div> <bR> <div> "You know I'm with you if you decide to go, buddy. Just think about it a little more because once we get on the ship there's no turning back." </div> <bR> <div> "There's no thinking about it, Herc.  I'm ready to do it, so let's go."</div> <bR> <div> They returned to the waiting delegation with the news that they were prepared to help.  The delegates were overjoyed and excitedly told the heroes about the ship they had waiting in Corinth's harbor.  Just as they were set to leave the clearing,  Iolaus stopped the group with an abrupt "Wait!" and he pulled Hercules off to the side one more time.</div> <bR> <div> "Herc, you DID send that scroll to Nebula, telling her I was alive, didn't you? I mean, I'd hate to show up on her doorstep and have her get weak in the knees from fright, instead of a more romantic emotion.  You know what I mean?" </div> <bR> <div> "Yeah, Iolaus.  I know what you mean.  And yes, I did send the scroll, just like you asked me to."</div> <bR> <div> "Good.  Okay guys, we're ready to go," and with that the group made their way to the harbor and a new adventure.</div> <bR> <bR> <div> Opening Credits</div> <bR> <bR> <div> Starring:</div> <div> Kevin Sorbo </div> <div> Michael Hurst</div> <bR> <div> Special Guest Stars:</div> <div> Gina Torres as Nebula</div> <div> Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as Petros</div> <div> Charles Mesure as Michael</div> <bR> <div> Written By: Mary E.</div> <bR> <div> Opening</div> <bR> <div> The journey to Sumeria was uneventful but the deference paid to Iolaus, with all the bowing and kneeling, and all of the people anticipating and taking care of his every need, quickly became a bit unnerving for the hunter.  He just couldn't get used to the delegates and the ship's crew constantly watching him and whispering behind his back.  The last straw came when he decided to relieve himself and found servants waiting for him to emerge from the 'water chamber', with a wash basin and scented towels.  Iolaus tried to keep his cool but just managed to utter an abrupt 'thanks'. He then grabbed one of the towels before he stormed off to find his best friend.</div> <bR> <div> Hercules hadn't been sleeping well since they embarked on the trip.  He was having recurring, disjointed nightmares about their last voyage to Sumeria. His nightmares all ended the same way, with the dagger speeding towards Iolaus' heart and he was helpless to stop it. The closer they got to Sumeria the more brooding and withdrawn the demigod became.</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus knew he would find his partner up on deck.  The fresh sea air always had a centering effect on his friend.  Hercules was standing in the bow of the ship looking off towards the horizon, his hair blown back by the wind and a relaxed smile on his face.  Recalling their early days on the Argo with Jason, Iolaus knew how much his partner loved being at sea<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" >.</FONT> Just the sight of Hercules standing at the rail served to calm the hunter a little - - but not so much that he wouldn't ruin this idyllic moment with his complaints.</div> <bR> <div> "Herc...Herc.  You've got to help me here.  These people are driving me nuts with all their attention.  Here, smell this.  Do you know what this is?" and with that Iolaus unceremoniously shoved the scented towel into the demigod's face.</div> <bR> <div> "Nice.  Jasmine?" guessed the demigod.</div> <bR> <div> "No Herc, not that.  I know what it smells like, but do you know where I got it?  Two of those very annoying goons were waiting for me when I came out of  'the chamber'.  They were holding a bowl of rose water and these towels!"</div> <bR> <div> The demigod immediately snatched the towel away from his face and threw it overboard. </div> <bR> <div> "Why are they doing all of this, Herc?  Are they deliberately trying to drive me crazy?"</div> <bR> <div> "I don't think so, Iolaus.  You've got to look at it from their point of view.  The last time they saw you, you were laying in a sarcophagus and you were mummified.  Now that you're standing in front of them very much alive, well, it probably has them nervous --  and this is the way they're handling it.  You know buddy, something like this probably doesn't happen very often to them."</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah.  Not like us huh, Herc?"</div> <bR> <div> After this conversation Iolaus resolved to accept whatever attention the Sumerians wanted to lavish upon him.  He didn't want to give them any reason to be frightened of him.</div> <bR> <div> When the ship docked in the Sumerian port Iolaus expected some relief from the constant attention but what he got was more than he had bargained for. Women and children shrieked and pointed in his direction.  He saw a couple of young girls faint and all the people who lined the main street from the port to the center of town bowed low or fell to their knees before him.</div> <bR> <div> Hercules was becoming equally as uncomfortable as his partner for the inexplicable behavior of the Sumerian people.  The heroes exchanged uneasy glances and quickened their pace.</div> <bR> <div> The palace was on the far end of the city and to get the answers they needed the men had to pass through both the market square and temple square, to reach Nebula. </div> <bR> <div> The quick trip through the market square provided the same kind of reception they received back at the port but, because of the crowd, it was a little more intense. The men increased their pace to almost a half-run and quickly entered the temple square The demigod had just a slight lead over the hunter. What Hercules saw as he entered the square stopped him short and caused him to inhale a deep, startled breath. All he had time to mutter was a quick "What the...?" when the abrupt stop caught Iolaus by surprise. He barreled into the demigod's back at full speed, feeling as if he had hit a brick wall. Off balance and slipping around to face his partner, he was ready to scold Hercules for a lack of warning when Iolaus caught sight of the slack-jawed expression on Hercules' face, as he stared off into the distance.</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus was a bit frightened and didn't think he wanted to know what was causing his friend to have such a reaction, but he knew he had to turn around eventually and check out the temple square.  The hunter turned swiftly and immediately wished he hadn't.  There, standing sternly and majestically on a tall, pyramid-shaped monument about two stories tall in the very center of the square was a statue of him.  Carved into the base of the monument were the words 'Iolaus the god of Sumeria'.  Incense burned in braziers on all four corners of the monument, the smoke curled it's way up to disburse into the air around the statue. Priests were accepting offerings from a long line of worshipers, people of all ages, shapes and sizes knelt and bowed to his image.  Iolaus just wanted to close his eyes and shut out the image forever.  Feelings of shame, embarrassment and anger almost overwhelmed him and he started shaking.</div> <bR> <div> Hercules snapped out of his own state of shock in time to see his best friend start to charge into the temple square. He managed to put his hand over the hunter's mouth before a stifled scream of: "Nooooooo! Make them stop. No offerings...no prayers," could interrupt the scene before them.</div> <bR> <div> Hercules held him from behind and firmly whispered into his partner's ear "Come!  There'll be time for your objections later.  Let's just get to Nebula.  She's the ruler here and she can put an immediate stop to this."</div> <bR> <div> They proceeded as fast as they could to the palace where they were greeted by the loud, furious voice of Nebula.  She wasn't even trying to conceal the seething anger that was raging inside her. The Queen of Sumeria was taking out her indignation on the returning delegates who had made it back to the palace minutes before the two heroes.  She was shocked by the audacity of her Council who summoned the heroes behind her back and she looked upon it as a mutiny of sorts.  She was even more angry with the heroes for accepting the Council's invitation when they knew that she specifically disapproved of their interference in what she considered her affairs of state.</div> <bR> <div> "You did tell her I was alive, right Herc?" whispered the hunter, right before they walked into the Great Hall.     </div> <bR> <div> "Yes, Iolaus. I told you ten times that I wrote her!" whispered the demigod.</div> <bR> <div> "Good, then there's nothing to worry about, right?"</div> <bR> <div> "Right Iolaus, not a thing in the world."</div> <bR> <div> The heroes entered the Great Hall and all heads turned in their direction.  Nebula's eyes widened and softened, her breath caught and her heart skipped a beat…all of the things that she promised herself not to do if she ever saw her former lover again.</div> <bR> <div> The pause lasted but a moment then the Royal Queen before them all of a sudden changed back into the Pirate Queen. She started screaming orders left and right at the top of her lungs. "Get out of here, everybody!!!  Out...out...out all of you.  Get out of here now!!!"</div> <bR> <div> Everyone in the Great Hall, from the delegates to the servants, turned to leave in a big hurry.  </div> <bR> <div> The two heroes also turned to leave.</div> <bR> <div> "Not you Big Man...you either Blondie. We need to talk." </div> <bR> <div> The demigod and the hunter pulled themselves up short and returned to face Nebula.</div> <bR> <div> "What is this Hercules, some kind of a sick joke?  You show up here when you know I<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT>don't need your help and don't want your help?<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" > </FONT>Like you think I'm some kind of incompetent ruler. Well I'm not. The people happen to be very happy with me.  We're only experiencing a small famine at the moment but it's nothing I can't handle by myself, thank you very much."</div> <bR> <div> "And as for you, Iolaus.  How could you?  You couldn't even write to me yourself and tell me you're back from the dead.  You had to have your friend here do the deed.  What? You couldn't bring yourself to put pen to paper for my sake?"</div> <bR> <div> "Nebula...would you have believed it if you received a letter signed by someone named Iolaus telling you something as ridiculous as 'Hi, it's me and I'm back from the dead'?"</div> <bR> <div> The Queen began to tremble as she stood in front of the hunter and gazed into his steady blue eyes.  "Yes!  Yes I would have believed it because before Hercules left here he swore passionately that he was going to get you back one way or the other. And he did and I don't know how he did it but he did it.  And you're here now."  Then remembering her anger she began to add in a very accusatory tone, "Why did you take so long to come back?"  But ending in a very hurt, far away  voice with - "<I>Why </I>did it take so long for you to come back?"</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus, not knowing a better way to handle the hurt and pain in the Queen's voice, and in an attempt to stop her trembling, took Nebula into his arms and just held her. He rocked her and whispered soft nonsense into her ear, designed to calm her down.  </div> <bR> <div> Nebula must have caught something from the corner of her eye because she started to push Iolaus away saying "Oh oh." </div> <bR> <div> " `Oh oh?'  What `oh oh?'  Why does everyone say that same thing when they first see me again?"  Iolaus wondered. </div> <bR> <div> Just at that moment a blur passed by Hercules and ran straight towards Iolaus and Nebula.  The demigod let out a shout but it was too late and a large hand with extremely strong fingers darted out from the blur and grabbed Iolaus by the throat holding him off the ground about two feet.</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus found himself unable to breathe and he was rapidly losing consciousness.  He could hear Nebula's frightened voice begging this giant to let him down.  He could hear Herc's soothing voice trying to talk some reason into the tower of iron that was holding him suspended above the tiled palace floor.  "Petros,  Petros please put him down. You don't understand, please Petros.  This is Iolaus!"  </div> <bR> <div> All the hunter knew was that the mention of his name was the magic word to make the giant let go.  He felt himself sink slowly towards the floor but felt Herc's strong arms brace him up.</div> <bR> <div>  Recovered, Iolaus turned to face the mountain of muscle that had him in such a firm grip just a few moments before. What he saw was the man holding his hands up and backing away a little.   As he backed away he said "I am sorry.  I heard about the commotion and came as fast as I could to see if Nebula was alright.  I thought she was in danger.  If I had know it was you I never would have reacted that hastily."  Then the large man started to bow at the waist in the more traditional Sumerian greeting. </div> <bR> <div>  The hunter was torn between wanting to smash the man's face into the marble floor and getting him to stop with the bowing.  Instead he turned to the Queen and said,  "Who is this goon and since when do you need a body guard?"  Then, turning to the man he said, "stand up. I won't have people bowing to me.  Now, who are you?" </div> <bR> <div> Nebula was the one who found her voice first.  "Iolaus, this is Petros, my fiancé ...."</div> <bR> <div> ((Commercial))</div> <bR> <div> Hercules was the first to break the ensuing silence with a handshake. "Petros, good to meet you.  I'm Hercules.  Iolaus, you know."</div> <bR> <div> Petros turned towards Iolaus, offering him his hand.  "I hope you'll accept my apology."</div> <bR> <div> "Yes, I accept your apology and I much prefer the handshake<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >.  </FONT>I really don't like all the bowing."</div> <bR> <div> "I am truly honored Exalted One, that you have come back to the country you helped save.  Your people have missed your presence."</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus turned to Nebula and mouthed the words 'my people?' and then, out loud he added, "Yes, it sure is good to be back and Queen Nebula has a lot of things to account for during my absence."</div> <bR> <div> Hercules was impressed by the way his partner was handling himself under the circumstances and with a nod to his best friend he turned to Petros saying "I'd like to hear more about the situation here, Petros. Could you show me around and explain while Queen Nebula brings Iolaus up to date?"</div> <bR> <div> "Certainly, Hercules.  Come this way, we'll start with the food storage houses."  Petros threw a brilliant smile at Nebula and the heroes could see it was returned tenfold.</div> <bR> <div> "Please come outside on the terrace with me Iolaus," pleaded Nebula as she took the hunter's proffered arm.  "I need some fresh air while we talk."</div> <bR> <div> "Lead away, My Queen." responded the hunter.</div> <bR> <div> As they walked towards the terrace Nebula broke the silence that had come between them.  "You know, just because I let you hug me doesn't mean I've let you off the hook about not writing."</div> <bR> <div> "I know, Nebula, and it's my turn to apologize.  Whoever said `The Pen is Mightier than the Sword' definitely wasn't talking about me.  I'm very eloquent with a sword in my hand but put a pen there and you shut me up forever," Iolaus explained.</div> <bR> <div> Nebula remained silent and Iolaus knew he would have to do better.  He flashed her his best boyish grin and continued.  "Besides, you know me.  I'm a hands-on, in-your-face kind of guy."</div> <bR> <div> Nebula still didn't make a sound as they approached the terrace so Iolaus pressed on.  "Honestly Nebula, I really am so sorry..."</div> <bR> <div> "Okay, Blondie you've groveled enough.  You're forgiven," offered Nebula as she flashed him a brilliant grin of her own.</div> <bR> <div> They found seats on a cobblestone wall, overlooking a beautiful and calm oasis. </div> <bR> <div> Nebula began,  "Iolaus, I don't know where to start..."</div> <bR> <div> "Then I'll start, Nebula.  I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart and with all my soul for helping Hercules the way you did after I died. You don't know how much he needed your strength at that time.  I also want to thank you for helping him defeat Dahak so I could go to the Light.  If I didn't get to go to the Light, I would never have been able to make it back here."</div> <bR> <div> "Come here, you." Nebula murmured as she took Iolaus into her arms and  held him close. She was afraid of the emotions that were rising to the surface but he had to know how she felt about him and what they shared.</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus welcomed the warm comfort of her arms because his own emotions were a little raw these days too.  Still resting in the circle of her arms, the hunter asked almost too lightly,<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" > </FONT>"So tell me, when did Petros happen?"</div> <bR> <div> "I met him on the ship ride home after the Dahak incident.  He was fathered by the same god as Gilgamesh yet they are poles apart. My brother  always had a selfish streak as wide as the Euphrates.  Petros is all giving.  He reminds me of you, in a way."</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah," muttered Iolaus.  "It must be all those dark good looks and piles of muscles."  They both had a good laugh which broke the tension somewhat.</div> <bR> <div> "I fell in love with him thanks to you, Iolaus. You opened my heart and set that part of me free.  Petros loves me for who I am and he helps me not to take myself too seriously.  He never asks for anything but my love in return and because of that I want to give him everything.  Can you understand that, Iolaus? Because, frankly, I don't understand it myself sometimes."</div> <bR> <div> "I'm so happy for you Nebula. Look at me.  I really am happy for you. You're blushing again.  Better not let anybody see that, <I>Pirate Queen.  </I>Now, enough about you." Iolaus managed to change the subject with enough tact to make the transition comfortable for both,<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" > </FONT>"We're going to talk about me for a while. Explain the monument, the statue, the temple and the incense. Explain why your people have become <I>my</I> people too.  Why are they worshiping me as a god and<I> how </I>could you let it get this far?  You above all people know just how much of a man I am, all my weaknesses..."</div> <bR> <div> "Iolaus, don't!  My people came to this conclusion on their own.  They took it up with the Advisory Council after I left for Greece with Hercules and Morrigan.  Apparently, after the people got the blessing of the Council they confiscated the temple of the dead Sumerian gods and began the transformation.<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" > </FONT>I had nothing to do with it and by the time I came home from Greece to assume the throne the temple, the monument, the statue and the library were already dedicated to you as the new god of Sumeria.  Look at it from their point-of-view Iolaus.  All knew that you helped me restore the water to the city while Gilgamesh was gone. They couldn't shake their belief that a mere woman could do something like that by herself, so they put the credit for that 'miracle' on your shoulders. Also, there were a lot of people in the temple chambers who witnessed the events in the few minutes before you were killed.  They saw you free me from the sacrificial altar. They saw how hard you fought to defend me. They witnessed the eclipse of the sun and thought it was the end of the world.  Then they saw you save my life - they saw you take the knife that was meant for me. Then the sun came back as you took your last breath ..."  Nebula trailed off for a moment, trying to fight off images of that day.</div> <bR> <div> "And?" Iolaus prompted.</div> <bR> <div> "Well, according to the Sumerian people's way of thinking, you brought them water when there was none, you saved both the sun and their queen from certain death.  Who could do all these things if he weren't a god?  It gave my people something they needed to get over all of the devastating events that were to follow.  It gave them hope, Iolaus!  And when I returned and saw that hope blazing in the eyes of my people ... Well, how could I put a stop to that? Besides, you were <I>dead</I> and usually once people die they <I>stay</I> dead." Nebula studied Iolaus troubled expression before continuing, "Then the stories started circulating about how you had returned to life and saved the whole world from certain destruction at the hands of  <I>The Four Horsemen </I>..." Nebula sighed, "I almost started believing that you were a god myself."</div> <bR> <div> There was silence between them for a few heart stopping moments.</div> <bR> <div> Then Iolaus said, "I understand a little better now Nebula ... but I can't have this.  It's not something that's easy to explain but I cannot and will not be worshiped as a god.  You've got to get them to understand, for all of their sakes as well as my own.  Please Nebula, don't leave it like this."</div> <bR> <div> "Let me get over the few pressing problems my people are facing, Iolaus, then I swear I will set them all straight."</div> <bR> <div> "I trust you, Nebula.  Don't let me down."  Iolaus gave her a brilliant smile.</div> <bR> <div> Nebula realized how much she had missed seeing it. "I won't Blondie, believe me." she purred and smiled back at him, feeling the weight of the world slipping off her shoulders for just a few minutes.</div> <bR> <div> "Now My Queen, tell me all about <I>our</I> people of Sumeria.  What has been happening here in my absence?"</div> <bR> <div> At that point the couple were joined on the terrace by a pair of smiling demigods.</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus said, "Hercules, good. I'm glad you're back. Nebula was just getting ready to fill me in on the particulars of the famine."</div> <bR> <div> "Petros has been good enough to tell me all about it while we were inspecting the food storage units. I'll be happy to fill you in later Iolaus.  You should see all the systems Nebula has set in place to handle the famine until the next harvest season."</div> <bR> <div> Then, turning to the Queen, Hercules said: "You've done a great job here. No one could have done it better Nebula."</div> <bR> <div> "Thank you, Hercules. I'm glad you approve."</div> <bR> <div> "I think we're at the point now where we've really got to concentrate on the more immediate threat to our country," injected Petros.  "Nebula has shared some of her ideas with me and we would be truly honored if you would agree to stay and help us prevent our neighbors' plans for an invasion and take-over."</div> <bR> <div> "Come on, boys." Nebula said, "We'll tell you what we can over dinner and then we'll take you over to the War Room so we can share our ideas with the captains of the Royal Sumerian Army."</div> <bR> <div> Nebula apologized for the sparseness of food on her table but she explained that she made a vow not to eat better than anyone else in her kingdom, especially during this time of famine.  The heroes wholeheartedly agreed with her and after their brief meal they joined Nebula, Petros and the soldiers for a strategy session.</div> <bR> <div> They talked long into the night about the terrain and the likely battle fields and discussed the how, when, why and the armaments needed to accomplish the job.  They spoke of the capabilities of the men who would be drafted to serve in this army.</div> <bR> <div> Petros stated his misgivings about the readiness of the<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" > </FONT>fighters. They had been spending the past two months scraping together all the food they could find, working in the fields and forests to provide for the people of Sumeria during the famine.  He couldn't believe that they were ready to fight a battle against trained enemy soldiers.</div> <bR> <div> Hercules believed their troops were more battle-ready than they seemed.  The demigod demonstrated to them how the formation Nebula devised for scouring the fields for grain could also be used by those same soldiers armed to defend the borders from attack.  It was a simple formation, but it was brilliant in it's simplicity.  The front line would make the initial sweep of the field and the others in a 'V' pattern behind them would pick off everything the front line missed.</div> <bR> <div> The captains of the Royal Army could see the wisdom in adopting this formation because their troops were already used to it and it would take very little training effort to get them battle ready.</div> <bR> <div> Everyone agreed to reconvene after breakfast the next morning and get an early start.  They would have to take the plan to the Advisory Council for their approval before they set off to train the troops<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" >.</FONT></div> <bR> <div> The following morning Nebula presented the Royal Army's plan to repel the invasion and asked the Council's approval.  The Council members conferred among themselves for a few minutes and agreed to the plans with one stipulation.  They would only agree to send the Royal Army off to fight if Iolaus would lead the troops into battle.  They explained that with their god at the head of the army they were assured of victory.</div> <bR> <div> Nebula saw the wisdom in this and with a quick glance in Iolaus' direction she gave her approval to the stipulation.</div> <bR> <div> Hercules objected loudly, startling those around him. </div> <bR> <div> Yet, no one was more surprised than his partner. Iolaus had not seen such a fiercely determined look on the demigod's face in years.  Not since that time the Enforcer had killed him and Herc was in the Underworld confronting Hades for his life.</div> <bR> <div> The Queen and her<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" > </FONT>Council held firm on their decision. The objections of the demigod couldn't dissuade them. Hercules would not listen to reason. Iolaus felt it was time for a recess so he could sort matters out with his partner. The Council adjourned for half an hour to let everything calm down before they resumed their discussions.</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus followed Hercules out onto the palace steps and called softly, "Herc, please stop for a minute and talk to me."</div> <bR> <div> Hercules turned and Iolaus could see how upset his friend was.  They both started to talk at once but Iolaus let the demigod take the lead.</div> <bR> <div> "Iolaus, you can't do this. I have a very bad feeling about the whole situation.  I never told you this before,  but the last time we came to Sumeria I had visions of the events that were to come and I ignored their warnings.  It's not going to happen this time trust me about this, Iolaus.  If you lead this army something's going to happen and I may not have the ability to prevent it."</div> <bR> <div> "Is this about the nightmares, Herc?  Because if it is, you know I can't abandon these people over a premonition.  These people believe in me.  They believe themselves to be "my" people.  You wouldn't back down from a threat to the people of Greece, would you?  Well just because I'm not Sumerian doesn't mean a thing.  They've adopted me Herc, and I have to help.  In fact, it might just be the edge they need to help them win.  Look at me Herc, I'll be okay and so will you. I know it."</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus stuck out his hand and met his best friend's eyes with his own cool and steady ones.  </div> <bR> <div> Hercules took his partner's arm in a warrior's handshake and smiled sheepishly.  "Back to back, Iolaus?"</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah Herc, just like it was meant to be."</div> <bR> <div> The two heroes returned to the council chambers and shared the news of their agreement. Iolaus would lead the army, with the provision that he and both demigods, Hercules and Petros, take the lead in readying the troops for battle.</div> <bR> <div> With everyone finally in agreement the wheels were set in motion to prepare the country for battle.</div> <bR> <div> ((scene break))</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>Two weeks later...</B></I></div> <bR> <div> The scouts could see the enemy camp from their vantage points in the high branches of the trees at the crest of the hill. This is where Iolaus chose to gather the Sumerian soldiers - hidden away amongst the trees.</div> <bR> <div> The day before, Petros had captured two enemy scouts and the heroes hoped those two were the only ones.  Hercules and Iolaus were counting on the element of surprise to aid them in the upcoming battle.</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus had insisted that he, Hercules and Petros participate in all of the training exercises with the soldiers over the past two weeks. </div> <bR> <div> Hercules knew that if his muscles burned with the effort at the end of every day then Iolaus must be feeling at <I>least</I> the same. Yet, the blond whirlwind never stopped.  He talked to the troops, urged them on and made sure that everyone was well trained, with both the sword and spear. Iolaus also made sure the soldiers were well fed before he ate anything himself.  Iolaus was the first one awake each morning and only after everyone else retired for the night did he unwind and look to his own needs. Not for the first time, Hercules was amazed by his adaptive friend and was happy to take the back seat here.  This was his partner's turn to shine.</div> <bR> <div> Two hours before dawn, on the day of battle, Iolaus was again the first one up. He made the rounds to rouse the troops and have them silently assemble in formation on the top of the hill, overlooking the enemy camp.  Iolaus was at the center of the front line, holding the Sumerian banner in one hand and his sword in the other. Hercules and Petros were at his back.</div> <bR> <div> Movement was detected in the enemy encampment minutes before dawn.  When the Sumerian army was spotted on the hill above them, shouts went up from the awakening soldiers to their comrades.  Then a savage scream was heard coming from the direction of the general's tent.</div> <bR> <div> The element of surprise had been well played.</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus waited until he could see the enemy general and his entourage emerge from the great tent. He then let out a roar of his own as he raised his sword and brought it down in a swift motion, pointing down the hill at the camp.  The Sumerian soldiers let out their own war cries as they followed their general down the hill to engage the enemy in battle.  About half way down the hill Iolaus planted the banner where it would stand for all to see.</div> <bR> <div> The heroes quickly found themselves in the thick of battle, fighting back to back with Petros close by.  </div> <bR> <div> When the enemy general saw that his soldiers easily outnumbered the Sumerians almost two to one he became overconfident and called his troops to the center of the fighting, leaving their perimeter unguarded.</div> <bR> <div> When Iolaus saw the enemy making the predictable move he let out another mighty roar. The second wave of Sumerian troops emerged from the trees at the top of the hill and charged down into the unprotected encampment, effectively sandwiching the enemy troops between the first and second waves of Sumerian soldiers.</div> <bR> <div> The fighting immediately doubled in ferocity.  Petros found himself battling two of the enemy soldiers at once but this left his back open.  Iolaus saw the archer first and shouted warning to the Sumerian demigod. However, he realized it wouldn't be enough and Iolaus ran, making a flying jump as the arrow was released. Iolaus made a move as if to grab it in mid flight.  Instead, the arrow pierced the hunter's left hand, deflecting just enough to send it into the chest of the enemy soldier on Petros' left. Without missing a beat, Iolaus tore the decorative sash off of his uniform and wrapped it around his injured hand. </div> <bR> <div> Hercules made note of his partner's injury but took it in stride, seeing that Iolaus wasn't much affected by it.  The battle around the demigod and his partner heated up rapidly.  The heroes took their back-to-back position with Iolaus yelling orders, fighting and keeping his eye on Herc's back all at the same time. </div> <bR> <div> To the Sumerian soldiers it appeared as if Iolaus were flying, he was jumping and moving so fast.  They had never in their lives seen anyone fight with such fury and determination.</div> <bR> <div> The enemy soldiers tried everything to take out Iolaus and Hercules.  One lucky blow sent Iolaus to his knees yet he continued fighting as he struggled to get back to his feet.  A spear thrust that was meant to catch Hercules in the back, while his partner was down, was interrupted by the hunter's upper left arm as he flew up to protect the demigod's life.  Hercules spun around in one fluid movement, crumpling the spear holder with an uppercut to the jaw.  Iolaus shouted that he was okay and they resumed their fighting.</div> <bR> <div> The hunter realized he was badly hurt and even though it wasn't immediately life threatening he knew he would have to have the wound attended to quickly.  And to do that they would have to make short work of this battle.</div> <bR> <div> The Sumerian soldiers worried when they saw their great general and godhead fall to the ground yet when he had sprung up with renewed vigor it compelled them all to fight that much harder.</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus shouted over his shoulder for Hercules to follow him back up the hill.  The heroes inched their way up to the high ground but they were still surrounded. Iolaus wanted to reach the Sumerian banner, waving it for all to see. It would rally the troops, causing them to push harder if they saw it.  However, once there, it did little good. The hunter and demigod were still a little too far away. Latching onto an idea, Iolaus asked Hercules to lift him up high so he could grab the banner, and be seen. Hercules complied with Iolaus' wishes and when the soldiers caught sight of their 'god' he appeared to be flying over the battle field, wielding their country's standard.</div> <bR> <div> Hercules lowered Iolaus to the ground and they found themselves in the thick of battle once more.  The Sumerians were stronger and more disciplined than their enemies and soon the tide of battle began to turn.  Many of the enemy solders had begun to retreat back inside their borders. The few who remained to fight were captured in short order, to be taken back to the Sumerian city for use as bargaining chips by Queen  Nebula as she negotiated a peace treaty.</div> <bR> <div> As they were tying up the last of the prisoners one of them reached down into his boot, took out a wicked-looking hunting knife and, with, deadly aim, let it fly straight for Iolaus' heart.</div> <bR> <div> Hercules heard one of the soldiers shout and he lifted his head from securing one of the wounded to a pallet.  He saw everything happening as if it were in slow motion.  His partner was standing not five feet away from him, tending to a group of wounded soldiers, and was unaware of the immediate danger to his life. Iolaus looked up and saw the knife coming straight at him but didn't have time to react more than a widening of his eyes. With a roaring "Noooooooooo!!!" the demigod flew through the air and intercepted the dagger meant for his partner.  </div> <bR> <div> The knife entered the demigod's chest, hit a rib and was deflected off the bone, down the inside of his arm and across his hand, coming to rest imbedded to the hilt in the ground next to Iolaus' feet.</div> <bR> <div> The demigod fell back into the trembling arms of his partner, hitting hard so they both fell to the ground with the impact.</div> <bR> <div> ((Commercial))</div> <bR> <div> "Herc, talk to me! Are you okay?  Stay with me buddy!"</div> <bR> <div> "I'm here, Iolaus." Hercules spoke through the pain and slowly sat up, holding his arm, "I'll be okay. It was my nightmare.  It was the same nightmare I've been having every night. Gods ... Iolaus are you okay?"</div> <bR> <div> The expression of relief on Iolaus face was absolute, "Yeah Herc, I think we're both going to be okay now."</div> <bR> <div> News of the success of the campaign preceded them to the palace. When the triumphant army returned to the city they were treated to a grand-scale reception. People standing ten deep lined the streets. They laid palm fronds in the road ahead of the lead chariot that contained the two demigods and the tired but glowing hunter.  Children and young maidens threw flower petals at the heroes.</div> <bR> <div> The procession made it to the temple square where they were greeted by the Queen and her Advisory Council. Hercules and Iolaus ascended the steps of the monument with Petros following closely behind.</div> <bR> <div> Prodded by both Hercules and Iolaus, Petros greeted Nebula in a loud, clear voice that easily carried to the far ends of the square.</div> <bR> <div> "My Queen, your army has returned and they have been successful in repelling the invaders.  Sumeria and her borders are safe."</div> <bR> <div> The assembly went wild with cheering and applause.  </div> <bR> <div> Nebula was gratified both with the victory and in seeing her people share a happiness that had been absent from their hearts for a long time. She was about to address the crowd when a chanting could be heard from the people and it caught on like wildfire until the whole square was resounding with the call: 'We want Iolaus...we want Iolaus...we want Iolaus...' Nebula stepped forward and the crowd became silent when she began speaking. "Today I have witnessed the strength and resilience of the Sumerian people and I am so proud to be your queen. Our army, led by Petros, Iolaus and Hercules has returned to us as victors.  For this we owe them our thanks, love and a holiday so we can all celebrate our good fortune.  And, so we will not forget the sacrifice of our people, every year from now on we will celebrate this as Victory Day in Sumeria!  Now, I give you our great general, Iolaus."</div> <bR> <div> The assembly again went wild with cheering and applause as Iolaus stepped forward to speak.  The cheering and applause seemed to double in volume which brought a bright red blush to his face. However, when the hunter raised his hands an immediate hush fell over the square. </div> <bR> <div> "Thank you good people of Sumeria.  All of the credit for this victory should go to your army.  They would make any general proud to lead them. I haven't had the chance to thank you for remembering me with this impressive statue." Iolaus mimed to the monument of mention, "It's a fine piece of art and I am grateful to all of you.  But I have to ask you to stop worshiping me. I am <I>not</I> your god.  You are brave and good people.  You have to rely on yourselves and your own abilities, not on someone like me who is not truly a god." The people in the crowd started to protest with shouts of  'you are too modest', 'you will always be our god' and 'Exalted One, we are <I>your </I>people. Please don't forsake us!'</div> <bR> <div> "No, I am just a man.  Look!" Iolaus lifted a hand to touch his wounded arm, " I'm bleeding just like the other men who were injured in battle.  If I were a god I wouldn't be injured. I stand here, as a mortal man, asking for your cooperation.  Please don't worship me as a god, I don't want offerings or adoration from you.  I just want to be your friend.  Thank you."</div> <bR> <div> The royal entourage left the temple square, well aware of the disappointed and confused mutterings behind them, and made their way to the palace where there already was a celebration in full swing.</div> <bR> <div> The heroes accepted the congratulations of everyone back in the palace then joined in with the festivities after being checked over by Nebula's personal physician.</div> <bR> <div> Back in the temple square the people and the soldiers mingled and spoke about the battle. The soldiers had never seen anyone fight like the combined forces of Iolaus, Hercules and Petros. Word spread swiftly regarding how the three had taken on the brunt of the fighting themselves.  Despite Iolaus earlier words to the Sumerian people, stories of how the golden warrior-god appeared to fly over the battle field attacking the enemy soldiers seemed to be the most popular.  Legends were begun about how Iolaus saved the life of their mighty Petros and how Hercules miraculously deflected the knife that was meant to kill his partner. The people decided they would continue to worship Iolaus as their god but respect his wishes regarding offerings.</div> <bR> <div> Word of the people's decision to continue their worship of Iolaus spread rapidly to the palace and was brought to the attention of Queen Nebula and her guests.</div> <bR> <div> Before Iolaus could open his mouth to protest, Hercules asked Nebula if she would be so kind as to take the matter up with her Advisory Council, in the morning, and get them to enforce some kind of law to prevent the worship. </div> <bR> <div> She agreed but pulled Hercules over to the side for a private discussion. "What's Iolaus' problem Hercules?  I would think he would be flattered by all of this attention. You're usually the one getting all the praise and he's usually left out."</div> <bR> <div> "I'm not sure Nebula, but Iolaus and I have been fighting against the petty tyranny of the Greek gods since we were kids.  Maybe he's gotten to a point where he can't stand to have himself associated with the gods in any way."</div> <bR> <div> "Okay, Hercules.  I'll do my best with the Council tomorrow morning."</div> <bR> <div> "Thanks, Nebula."</div> <bR> <div> The following morning,  Nebula sent messages calling for an emergency meeting of the full Advisory Council. They met in the Great Hall of the palace immediately after lunch.</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus felt as if he were on trial.  Nebula, Hercules and Petros all spoke on his behalf as to why Iolaus should not be worshiped as a god. Then, as per tradition, they heard responses from several soldiers and a few members of the Council who wanted to continue the worship. Iolaus was asked to speak in his own behalf but he was finding it hard to come up with the words that would explain his stand. He tried to explain to all  about the time he spent as a Guardian of The Light but the Council members argued that The Light and the Sumerian gods were two totally different things. They gave the example of the Greeks worshipping both Zeus <I>and</I> Apollo. Why then couldn't the Sumerians worship Iolaus, he who was of 'the light', as well as the memory of their past gods?  </div> <bR> <div> The arguments continued until after sunset. The cool evening breeze brought with it the tempting scents of dinner, wafting in from the palace kitchen, and all of a sudden the urge to finish the meeting took over.</div> <bR> <div> In the end, Iolaus was voted down.  Before the hall could clear out he begged to petition the Queen and asked her to overrule the Council's decision. Yet, after a long moment of silence and a whispered apology to the hunter Nebula turned him down with the words "Iolaus, our people have spoken."</div> <bR> <div> With that, the hunter turned and walked briskly out of the Great Hall and into the darkness.  </div> <bR> <div> Hercules excused himself from Nebula and Petros and followed his partner back to their suite. He found Iolaus sitting hunched over on the balcony with his eyes closed as if he were deep in thought.  Hercules decided to let his partner have some time alone and quietly turned to leave when he heard the hunter call his name.</div> <bR> <div> "Herc.  Please take my apologies to Nebula and Petros. I won't be dining with you tonight.  I need to be alone for a while."</div> <bR> <div> "Whatever you want, my friend.  I'm sure they'll understand.  Can I get you anything?"</div> <bR> <div> "No Herc.  I'm not hungry.  I just need to think and I'm awfully tired so I'll probably turn in early.  See you in the morning."</div> <bR> <div> "Goodnight, Iolaus."</div> <bR> <div> When Hercules returned to their suite he checked on his partner who was under the covers and appeared to be in a sound sleep.</div> <bR> <div> Hercules retired to his own bed and pulled the covers around him, but was unable to sleep.  He worried about his partner and resolved to leave Sumeria as quickly as possible.</div> <bR> <div> In the early hours before dawn Hercules, who still couldn't sleep, heard the door to the suite open and close.  He jumped out of bed to alert his partner to the possibility of an intruder but found Iolaus' bed empty. Realizing it was Iolaus who had slipped out of the suite, the demigod threw his clothes on and ran to follow his partner.</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus made his way quietly through the Great Hall but before he left the palace he grabbed one of the heavy battle axes that decorated the wall next to Nebula's throne.  Then just as quietly he made his way to the temple square. Iolaus climbed the stairs and confronted the stern-faced statue.  It was the first time anyone had memorialized his deeds like this.  There were hundreds of statues of Hercules, but not one of him.  That was going to make what he had to do even harder.</div> <bR> <div> "Michael," Iolaus whispered, "I know you're there.  I know, if I try hard enough, you can hear me. What I'm about to do I can't explain to anyone else, not even Hercules. Please, just give my arms strength enough to destroy this idol then give me the emotional strength to face Nebula and her people in the morning.  Thanks."</div> <bR> <div> As he approached the temple square, the demigod could hear his partner's agonized, pleading voice, but he was still too far away to hear the words. He then saw Iolaus reach for a battle axe at the bottom of the monument. Astounded, Hercules watched while the hunter found his grip on the handle and swung it back into position to attack the hated statue.</div> <bR> <div> Hercules came up behind his partner on silent feet and stopped his mighty swing of the axe with simple ease. "Iolaus," he whispered.  "Not like this, please. I know you're not happy about it but there's got to be a different way to handle the situation without upsetting a whole country of people who have come to look to you for renewed hope. We can deal with the issue of the statue and worship in a different way but ... not like this.  If you smash the statue, it looks like you're smashing their devotion and pride. It might even make the Sumerians feel unworthy, like they have failed you in some way. Come on back to the palace and after a good night's sleep we'll take this up with Nebula and the Council again."</div> <bR> <div> "You're right, Herc." Iolaus confessed, "Sorry, it's just that...well, it's hard to explain but I just can't have the people worshiping me as a god... Not even for one minute.  You don't know how wrong this is...how upsetting ..."</div> <bR> <div> "I do understand in a way, Iolaus.  Come on, I promise you that we'll deal with this first thing in the morning."</div> <bR> <div> The hunter handed Hercules the axe and they walked off in silence towards the palace. As they vanished around the corner, a golden flash appeared at the base of the statue and materialized into the striking figure of Michael.</div> <bR> <div> Retracting his wings, he stared at the spot where the hunter once stood, "I heard you, Iolaus. I always hear you. You're still a Guardian of the Light. That will not change." Michael then circled the monument, giving the statue a once-over, "Good workmanship, great likeness and very fine carving skills ... However, I think we can improve it just a little." With that, Michael slowly waved his hand in the direction of the statue, gave a small, knowing smile and muttered, "Ah yes ...better."  Then he vanished in a sparkling golden flash.</div> <bR> <div> ((Commercial))</div> <bR> <div> The dawn brought with it a loud commotion in the temple square that awakened the whole palace and put them immediately on alert.  </div> <bR> <div> Dressing swiftly, the heroes, accompanied by Nebula, Petros and a large contingent of the palace guards, rapidly made their way to the square.</div> <bR> <div> What they saw made Hercules stop abruptly in his tracks to catch his breath. It caused Iolaus to go just a little bit weak in the knees.  </div> <bR> <div> The statue was still there, that impressive monument to the people's god, Iolaus -- but it had changed overnight.  It was no longer an oversized, stern faced, meticulously carved image of the hunter, standing straight and tall over the square. What they all saw before them now was a winged figure, sword in one outstretched arm, Sumerian banner in the other.  The statue appeared as if it were in mid-flight, with one leg drawn up at the knee and the other stretched out behind. Unmistakably, it wore Iolaus vest, pants and half-medallion.  But the thing that struck awe into the heart of the demigod and those Sumerians who surrounded the monument was the expression on the face of the statue.  It was the same one that Hercules had seen hundreds and hundreds of times on his best friend.  The happy, exhilarated look he had at the end of a successful battle.  It  was comfortable.  It was familiar.  It was perfect.</div> <bR> <div> Nebula, Petros and Hercules ascended the steps of the monument with Iolaus close behind. They read the words carved at the base of the statue, which had also changed.  Nebula turned to address her people and acknowledged this miracle.  The Queen read to her people the new words:</div> <bR> <div>         "Bow not to worship the Guardian</div> <div>         Who led you in battle hard won.</div> <div>         A man, like you, he chose to fight</div> <div>         Preserving Sumeria for the Light.</div> <div>         A beacon of hope for all to see.</div> <div>         Our heroic and noble Winged Victory."</div> <bR> <div> Content, the crowd disbursed after spending several more minutes admiring the new statue.</div> <bR> <div> Nebula, Petros and the guards - all still a bit stunned -prepared to return to the palace.  They descended the stairs and Nebula turned to the heroes who remained at the base of the statue. "You coming boys?"</div> <bR> <div> "We'll catch up with you in a few minutes, Nebula.  I'd like to stay for a while if you don't mind," returned the demigod.</div> <bR> <div> "Okay, Petros and I will be expecting you two to join us for breakfast," The Queen and her entourage turned to leave after receiving Hercules' quiet nod.</div> <bR> <div> Iolaus still hadn't moved an inch from his spot, staring unbelievingly at the miracle in front of him. He was too busy silently thanking Michael, from deep inside his heart, knowing that the archangel was responsible for the transformation. He knew, without a doubt, that Michael had taken the likeness for the statue from a memory he had of the hunter during his time as a Guardian. Iolaus was grateful to the angel for giving him and the others in Sumeria this vision of himself, as he had been during that time in the Light.</div> <bR> <div> Hercules rested one hand on his partner's shoulder then reached the other hand up to touch a wing  of the statue that dipped closest to the base. "Iolaus,  I...  You left this...all of this...to come back and help mankind. To be by my side...I don't know how you could..."</div> <bR> <div> "Herc stop. I know now that I haven't left this. Not completely anyway.  It's still a part of who I am.  I don't even understand it but it's still there.  Come on now, I'm starving. Let's go eat."  Iolaus turned and started off at a rapid pace back to the palace, with the demigod following slightly behind.</div> <bR> <div> A darting movement of something small and dark blowing in the breeze caught the demigod's eye as they turned the corner away from the temple square.  He swiftly caught the object in his hand and when he opened it to see what he had captured there, his eyes misted over and he raised his head to catch the rapidly retreating figure of his best friend.  In his hand was a small, perfectly formed, jet black feather with highlights the color of the forest at dawn.  He reverently tucked it into his belt pouch and took off at a quick pace behind his partner.</div> <bR> <div> Later that afternoon Nebula and Petros joined the heroes on the garden terrace of the palace. "Well boys, my healer says that the two of you should be fit for travel in another two days," advised the Queen.</div> <bR> <div> Taking her hand, Petros added, "But Nebula and I would be honored if you would consider staying for our wedding next month."</div> <bR> <div> "I don't think I could take another month of this pampering." Iolaus commented, "I'll be so out of shape Herc will be pushing me to do 200 sit-ups each work out session instead of the normal twenty five -- but it's up to Herc."</div> <bR> <div> "Thank you for the offer Nebula, but I really think we should be getting back home as soon as possible."</div> <bR> <div> "I understand, Hercules. You miss Greece almost as much as it misses you. I'll make my ship available to you," offered the Queen.</div> <bR> <div> "There's no need to do that Nebula, we'll book passage on the next ship to Greece. Don't trouble yourself.  Besides, I already owe you one ship. I'd hate for anything to go wrong and up that count to two,"  groaned the demigod apologetically.</div> <bR> <div> "You don't owe me anything, Hercules.  I'd say we're more than even after all of this," The grateful Queen said. Then, with nearly undetectable tears in her eyes, she turned to Iolaus and held him in a desperate hug, "And you, Monkey Boy, don't be a stranger.  Make the Big Guy bring you back every once in a while, you hear me? I want my children to get to know you and love you as much as I do."</div> <bR> <div> "I promise, My Queen," returned the hunter.  He broke the hug and wandered over to his partner and punched him lightly on his uninjured arm. "Listen Herc, I think we can recover just as easily on board that ship in the fresh sea air as we can here in this stuffy old palace.  If Her Royal Highness over there doesn't object, I'd like to go now.  Okay buddy?" Iolaus turned and left the terrace at a swift pace, trying hard to hide the emotion chasing across his face at leaving Nebula once again. </div> <bR> <div>  Alone and understanding, the demigod shook hands with both Nebula and Petros and offered assurances. He and Iolaus would be fine, returning at an unspecified time in the future to Sumeria</div> <bR> <div>  ((Epilogue))</div> <bR> <div> A few hours later the two heroes walked up the gang plank to board the ship.</div> <bR> <div> "You know Herc, I had to make some compromises with The Council to make them stop worshiping me as a god even with that new statue."</div> <bR> <div> "So what did you have to give up besides your godhood?"</div> <bR> <div> "Well they agreed to turn the temple into a school for healers if I let them keep the library."</div> <bR> <div> "So, no more Temple of Iolaus and no more<I> Exalted One</I>?" queried the demigod.</div> <bR> <div> "No Herc, no more Temple of Iolaus but the Iolausian Library will stand for a long time to help educate the people around these parts."</div> <bR> <div> "Iolausian Library, huh?  I like the way that sounds, my friend.  We'll have to come back and visit often."</div> <bR> <div> "Yeah, who'd of thought there would ever be a library named after me?"</div> <bR> <div> "Never!  A bar room maybe or even a harem dedicated to you ..."</div> <bR> <div> "Okay, Herc ..."</div> <bR> <div> " ... or maybe even a recipe for rabbit -- Iolausian Stew..."</div> <bR> <div> "Funny Herc...very funny."</div> <bR> <div> <B>The End</B></div> <bR> <bR> <div> Disclaimer:  No Sumerians starved during the famine in this episode thanks to a couple of world-renown Greek musicians who formed the first in a very long series of Famine-Aid B.C. concerts.</div> <bR> <div>   <NOSCRIPT><A HREF="http://guestbook.mycomputer.com/guest.html?u=dolittle10&b=1">Sign my Guestbook.</A></NOSCRIPT> <NOSCRIPT><A HREF="http://guestbook.mycomputer.com/guest.html?u=dolittle10&b=1&show=1">View my Guestbook.</A></NOSCRIPT> <SCRIPT Language=JavaScript src="http://guestbook.mycomputer.com/get_guestbook.html?u=dolittle10&b=1"> </SCRIPT>   </div> <bR> <bR> <bR> </td> </tr></table></body>