If I Dream Before I Wake

by Jessi

A deadly, recurrent dream begins to send Iolaus over the edge and Hercules is ready to battle Morpheus for his friend's sanity. But it's only in the world of dreams where the war must be raged and Iolaus has to face down his own fears to protect his family.

Nebula stood on the edge of the gangplank, looking out over the ocean. The wind was blowing her long, black hair, a peaceful expression covered her face. At the sound of her name, she turned, greeting her husband with a smile. "It's about time you showed up."

Iolaus didn't return the smile; his face felt as if it were carved out of stone. His hand lifted; the moonlight glinted off the blade of the dagger he held.

"Iolaus, what are you doing?" Nebula took a step backwards, her hands held aloft. She'd reached the end of the gangplank; there was nowhere else for her to go. She was at her husband's mercy and something told her that Iolaus didn't have any mercy at the moment. Desperately, she tried to reach him. "I don't know what's wrong with you, but this isn't you. I'm your wife. We love each other. You don't want to do this."

"I have to do this." Iolaus responded dully. He jerked forward, the cold steel slicing through tender flesh as it found its mark. He watched dispassionately as Nebula's lips formed a soundless scream and her hand reached for the dagger imbedded in her chest. Stumbling, she teetered on the edge of the plank, her free hand reaching out pleadingly for the help which was denied. Then, without sound, she plunged overboard, coating the ocean with blood.

Iolaus came awake with a start, chest heaving, body drenched with sweat. Looking down at his side, he breathed a sigh of relief; Nebula slept peacefully, unaware of the horror of his dream. Rolling to the floor, he wrapped a blanket around his hips and walked out of the bedroom, seeking solace from the terrifying images his mind stubbornly refused to relinquish.

This wasn't the first time he'd had this dream. In fact, it had been coming at least once a night for the last two weeks. Though each method was different, it was always the same result; he killed Nebula...not in a fit of rage, but for reasons known only to the gods. Scrubbing his hands over his face, the hunter stepped out into the cool night air, allowing the peace of the darkness to calm him, although his heart continued to pump erratically. What did the dream mean? Was Morpheus trying to tell him something?

"Damn all the gods!" He hissed below his breath. "Why can't you just leave us alone to live our lives in peace? We don't bother you; we're honest, hard-working people and yet you torment us at every given opportunity." An explosion of pain cinched his temple and Iolaus rocked back on his heels, clenching his teeth together tightly to stifle the cry that reached his lips. The pain intensified and he dropped to his knees, head in his hands. Minutes passed that felt like hours and finally, the pain resided and Iolaus was able to stand again. Something was wrong, of that he had no doubt, but what he could do about the problem, he wasn't sure. He wasn't even sure if Hercules could help him this time.

Nebula watched as Iolaus pushed the food around on his plate. Finally, she sat down beside him and placed her hand on his arm. "Do you want to tell me what's going on?"

He glanced at her, startled from his reverie. "Hmm? Oh, nothing. Nothing's wrong."

"Iolaus, you're not eating. To me, that says something's wrong." Her voice was soft, but insistent.

To reassure her, he took a bite of eggs and managed a smile. "See? I'm eating."

"Why won't you talk to me? You don't sleep; you barely eat. And now, you're shutting me out." Getting to her feet, she walked away from him. "How can I help you if you won't talk to me?"

Iolaus felt a cold chill crawl its way down his spine. "Nebula, there's nothing wrong. Just give it a rest, will you?"

"A rest?" She spun around, hands planted on hips. "I'm worried about you and you want me to give it a rest?"

Taking his plate, he carried it to the counter, keeping his eyes averted from hers. "Yeah, that's what I said. Now, I'm going to go chop some wood. It's going to get cold tonight."

She watched him leave and wondered if there was anything she could do to help him anyway. But she knew she had to do something. If she couldn't help him, there had to be someone who could and the best person to start with would be her husband's best friend...Hercules.

Serena shifted her son to her hip and greeted Nebula at the door. "Well, this is a pleasant surprise. Come on in out of the cold." She stepped aside to allow her friend to enter.

Nebula shook off her shawl. "I'm sorry to barge in like this."

"Oh, don't apologize. It's nice to have the company. Hercules is building a treehouse for Lilah and Morgan, not that he's going to be using it anytime soon. His son's barely eighteen months old. By the way, where's Alcmene?"

"Oh, she's with Iolaus' mother and step-father. They've been wanting to have her for the night ever since she was born and since they came into town last night, I finally relented. They're staying at the inn in Corinth." Nebula's eyes grew shadowed and she tossed an apologetic look at her friend. "I hate to say this, Serena, but this really isn't a social call."

The brunette nodded. "I figured as much. Should I go get Hercules?"

The former pirate's smile was strained. "Yes, thank you."

"If you'll hold Morgan, I'll be right back. And don't worry about this not being a social call. I'll drop in on you one day soon and we can catch up on everything." Serena grabbed her own shawl and hurried out into the crisp, mid-day air.

Hercules was whistling in between answering the many questions Lilah fired at him on a frequent basis. He swung the hammer in time to the tune. He was sitting on the highest branch of a rather large oak tree. The height made Serena dizzy as she approached the bottom of the tree. "Hey, Serena! It's really coming along. Do you want to come up and see?"

She gave him a "you must be crazy" shake of her head and called out, "Could you come down here for a minute? Nebula's here; she needs to talk to you."

"Nebula?" Hercules' brow furrowed with a frown. "Is everything alright?"

"I don't think so; she's upset," her voice returned to normal level just as her husband reached her.

"Alright. Let's go find out what's going on." His hand at the small of her back, he guided her back toward the house, pausing to call for their daughter. "Lilah, come on back closer to the house and play. Mommy and I have to go inside for a while."

Lilah ran after her parents, reaching her father's side to catch his hand. "The tree house is going to be great, Daddy."

He ruffled her hair. "Well, you stay out of it until I'm finished with it. Understand?"

"Yes, Sir." She skipped on ahead to find other amusements.

"And don't stay out too long, it's getting colder out here," Serena admonished, wondering if her daughter was even listening.

Nebula was rocking Morgan to sleep when Serena returned with Hercules. She greeted him with a silent smile.

"I'll just put him down for a nap and then we can talk." Serena scooped her young son into her arms and headed toward his bedroom.

"It's been a while, Nebula. It's good to see you again." Hercules pulled out a chair opposite her and seated himself.

Her smile wavered. "We've been meaning to come by, but things keep coming up. First, the trip to see Iolaus' family." She laughed a little at the memory. "Don't ever take a long journey with a baby. Not a good idea. Alcmene must have cried the entire time. Iolaus was very good with her, though. I don't know what I would have done without him along." Her breath hitched in her throat and she looked away from her friend's understanding gaze.

Spanning the short distance separating them, Hercules covered her hand with one of his. "Whatever's wrong, Nebula, you know that Serena and I will help."

Serena joined the couple at the table. "Okay. Morgan should sleep for at least an hour; that should give us plenty of time."

"It's Iolaus, Hercules." Nebula didn't beat around the bush.

"I figured as much. What's going on?"

"I wish I knew. He's not sleeping; he's not eating. He doesn't want to play with his daughter anymore. He spends a lot of time chopping wood by himself. He doesn't even want to go fishing anymore."

That alone concerned the demigod much more than his lack of sleep. "How long has this been going on?" Serena posed the question with a gentle voice.

"Two weeks, maybe more. It's becoming more noticeable." Nebula pulled in a deep breath and lowered her gaze to the table. "It's almost like I don't even know him anymore. If I ask him a question, he either mumbles a response or he snaps at me." She raised her gaze then and boldly finished her revelation. "And he doesn't want to touch me."

Hercules gave her hand a squeeze. "Have you noticed anything that's happened in the last few days that might have triggered this?"

"No, but a few nights ago, he had a really bad nightmare. He woke up screaming and then he just jumped out of bed. I tried to ask him what was wrong, but he wouldn't talk to me."

Hercules' face cleared. "It sounds like this could be from the gods, Nebula....specifically, Morpheus."

Nebula's head whipped up. "Morpheus? But why? Why would he start tormenting Iolaus? What has he done to deserve that?"

"You should know by now that the mortals rarely deserve the gods' plagues." Hercules pushed himself to his feet. "You two stay here. I'm going to go have a talk with Iolaus."

"You might be the one doing all the talking," Nebula warned.

"That will certainly be a first." The demigod teased on his way out the door.

Iolaus wasn't really surprised to see his friend coming up the path leading to his house. Nebula had gone to visit Serena on the spur of the moment and odds were good that she'd talked to Hercules about his behavior. Raking a hand through his tousled hair, he grimaced. He wished he could talk to her, explain what was going on, but he wasn't sure he understood himself. Walking to the door, he leaned against the frame and waited for Hercules to draw closer. "Hey, Herk, what brings you out this way or need I ask?" He stepped aside to allow his friend to enter.

"I thought you'd be chopping wood," the demigod greeted his friend teasingly.

Iolaus managed a rueful smile. "I see you've been talking to Nebula." Walking past his friend, he wiped his damp hands down the legs of his leather pants. "She shouldn't have bothered you; I'm fine."

"Are you?" Hercules wasn't convinced.

"Yeah. Can't a guy have a few sleepless nights without getting tagged as a maniac?" He laughed slightly, but the laugh didn't carry his usual humor.

Hercules positioned himself in front of his friend, barring his path to the door. "It sounds like it's much more than a few sleepless nights, Iolaus. Why don't you tell me what's going on and together, we'll find a solution?"

Iolaus tossed his hands up in the air in a gesture of agitation. "If I knew what was going on, don't you think I would have told you by now? I don't. I have no idea why this is happening." His muscles were jumping in his legs and he had to move. The only option open was to back up. His hands were starting to shake, so, he clasped them together behind his back.

"You look like someone going through withdrawals."

"Yeah, well, I'm not on anything, Hercules, if that's what you're thinking."

"So, talk to me. Tell me everything that's been going on and we can put the puzzle together."

"Damnit, I don't want to talk about it!" Iolaus' hand slapped the top of the counter and he took a step forward. "Now, get out of my way. I need to walk. I need to get some air."

"I'm not going anywhere." Arms folded across his massive chest, the demigod faced his best friend resolutely.

"Don't make me go through you, Hercules."

Eyebrows arched at the statement. "Do you really think you could?"

Without another word, Iolaus barreled forward, head lowered, aiming for his friend's mid- section. Hercules caught the smaller man around the upper torso and shoved him backwards, pinning him between the counter and his own body. "Iolaus, I'm trying to help you!"

"I didn't ask for your help!"

Releasing him, the demigod took a step backwards. "I don't understand why you don't want to talk to me."

Breathing heavily, Iolaus moved toward the nearest chairs on legs too shaky to hold him anymore. "Because it's like I'm living a nightmare." He rubbed bleary eyes and shook his head to try to dispel the fog clinging to him like a cape.

Hercules sat down, resting his forearms on his legs. "I can't help you if you won't talk to me, Iolaus and we've always been honest with one another. You've been having nightmares, haven't you?"

"Oh, yeah." He scrubbed his face with his hands. "Are you sure you want to hear this?"

"I'm here, aren't I?"

"Every night for at least two weeks, I've had nightmares, always the same. I kill Nebula. It's always a different way, of course, but the result is always the same. She dies, screaming my name. Last night, I woke up with blood on my hands. I'm beginning to think it would be better if I were to go away for awhile...at least until I know what's happening to me. I can't risk hurting her, Hercules." He felt the tears clog the back of his throat. His hands clenched into fists. "I don't know why this is happening.

Hercules sat back in the chair. "It's the gods, Iolaus. Morpheus."

"But why? What have I ever done to him? Why would he do this to me?"

"I don't know, but I'm going to find out." He got to his feet.

Iolaus was right behind him. "I'm coming with you and before you try to stop me, I can't stay here. There's no telling what's going to happen if I continue to live here with these dreams and..." he broke off, fighting back the tears. "I never thought I could ever think about hurting her. Now, it's in my dreams."

Hercules turned and clasped his friend's shoulder. "It's going to be alright, Iolaus. We'll find out what's going on and fix it. It looks like a storm's coming in, so, we'd better wait to leave until first light."

Great. One more night. Iolaus couldn't keep the panicked look off his face. "Mother will be bringing Alcmene back today. Herk, I "

The demigod accurately translated his friend's fears. "Maybe Nebula and Alcmene could stay with us tonight."

Iolaus nodded. "That might not be a bad idea."

"I'll see you at first light, my friend." With one last look, Hercules left.

Nebula walked out into the darkness, looking up at the sky. It shouldn't have been dark, but the sun was obscured behind a blood-red cloud. Shivering, she wrapped her arms around her waist and turned to head back to the house. She would wait inside for Iolaus; he should be home soon.

Iolaus watched her retrace her steps back inside the sanctuary of the house and his fingers traced the cold steel of the blade he held in his hand. There was no escaping her destiny. Tonight, Nebula must die. Eyes glazed and body tensed, he followed his wife. She lay on the bed, her long, silky black hair fanned against the pillow. Her eyes were closed in an effort to sleep. Softly, he called her name. Her eyes opened and she started to smile...until she saw the dagger in his hand. She screamed and tried to escape him, but he was too quick. The knife plunged into her heart, her warm red blood spilling across his hand to run down her side. Satisfied that the job had been completed, Iolaus dropped the dagger to the floor and turned to leave. "I will always love you, Nebula, but you had to die."

Nebula stirred against the mattress, the unfamiliarity of the room making it difficult to rest. Her eyes blinked open and she tried to focus in the darkness. She could hear Alcmene's even breath sounds, telling her the little girl was sound asleep. At least she didn't have any problems in an unfamiliar environment. She fluffed the pillow once more and rolled to her side, squeezing her eyes tightly shut in a concentrated effort to sleep. The sound of footsteps brought her to a sitting position. Drawing in a breath, she held it and waited.

Serena sat up in the bed, her eyes scanning the darkness for any signs of her husband. "Hercules?"

"I'm right here." He was standing at the window, wearing only his leather pants.

"What's wrong?"

"I'm not sure yet. Stay here." He instructed, heading out of the bedroom. He wasn't surprised to see Iolaus, standing just outside the bedroom where Nebula was sleeping. "Iolaus?"

The hunter either didn't hear him or was ignoring him. His hand gripped the doorknob and as his other hand raised, Hercules caught the glint of steel and dived forward, knocking him to the ground. Iolaus fought him with almost superhuman strength and it was only by sheer willpower that Hercules was able to wrest the knife away from him. Then, pulling him to his feet, he backed the smaller man against the wall. "Iolaus, what are you doing?" His voice was low, insistent.

All at once, Iolaus' face cleared. "Hercules? What are you doing? Let go of me." His voice was normal, surprised and baffled.

Warily, Hercules released him. "What are you doing here?"

"Doing where?" Iolaus looked around him, recognizing his surroundings. With a horrified expression on his handsome face, he responded. "I have no idea." Slumping down against the wall, he slid to the floor. "I had another nightmare. The last thing I can remember is reaching for my knife, but I was home, not here." He pointed to the knife in his friend's hand. "Where did you get that?"

"I took it from you," came the quiet response.

The bedroom door opened and Nebula stepped out, her face pale. "Iolaus?"

Scrambling to his feet, the hunter held up his hand. "Nebula, don't! Just stay away from me right now. I don't know what's going on."

"But you're hurt," she drew his attention to the trickle of blood running across his palm where he'd gripped the blade so fiercely in his fight with Hercules.

"It's nothing. I'm alright."

"Let me look at it." She took a step toward him, but Iolaus was frantically backing away from her.

"I said don't!" Both hands in front of him, he continued backing toward the door. "I have to get out of here. Just..stay away from me, Nebula, please!" Turning on his heel, he raced out into the inky blackness, slamming the door behind him.

"Hercules, what's going on?" Nebula's horrified voice reached the demigod just as he reached the front door.

"I'm not sure, Nebula, but stay here until I find out." In bare feet, he tore after his best friend.

Pausing to catch his breath, Iolaus dropped to his knees, feeling the wetness of his tears streaking his cheeks. What was wrong with him? Why had he gone to Hercules' house with a knife? He couldn't even remember making the trip. What was happening to him?

"You're only doing as you were told, Iolaus. You must obey. Nebula must die."

"No! I will not kill my wife!" He screamed to the heavens, rocking back on his heels to glare up at the starless sky.

"Iolaus?" Hercules' voice was soft in the night. He tucked the knife in the waistband of his pants and waited.

The hunter whirled around, holding out his hands. "Hercules, help me, please! He wants me to kill her!"

Hercules reached his friend's side in one quick stride, clamping his hands down on his shoulders. "Iolaus, listen to me. The gods can get inside your mind like this, but only one can give you nightmares so real that you can't distinguish between fantasy and reality. Morpheus. He's trying to drive you insane. You have to fight him! Do you hear me? Fight him!"

"There's no use listening to him, Iolaus. You can't fight me and win! Give in to me! Do my will or die!"

Iolaus leapt to his feet. "Then kill me! Because I won't kill my wife! So, you might as well kill me now!" Sweat glistened off his muscular chest and tears stained his cheeks. He tried to run, but Hercules caught him. "No, let me go, Hercules. I can't stay here!"

"And you can't run! You have to fight this!" Shaking him, the demigod met the hunter's gaze, forcing him to see into his eyes. "Use my strength, Iolaus. Don't let them win!"

"They're all around me. It's not just when I sleep anymore! I can hear him." His voice was raspy in a throat that was raw from screaming.

"Is it Morpheus? Do you know his voice?"

"I...can't tell. I've never heard him before." Iolaus' breathing was starting to return to normal. "By the gods, I almost killed Nebula."

Wrapping one arm around his friend's shoulder, Hercules guided him toward a nearby boulder. "We should go now. It's almost light. I'm going to go back to the house and get dressed. You stay here." He turned to leave. "Are you alright now?"

Iolaus gave a shaky laugh. "For now. The voice is gone."

"Good. I'll be right back."

Nebula met the demigod at the door, her eyes searching the night for any sign of her husband. "Hercules, where is he?"

He wrapped an arm around her shoulders. "He's out there, waiting for me."

"Why?" Serena asked the question from behind Nebula.

"We're going to get started. Neither one of us will be able to go back to sleep and to tell you the truth, it's probably not a good idea for Iolaus to try to sleep now anyway." Hercules moved past the women toward the bedroom.

"He can't go without sleep, Hercules." Nebula still stood in the doorway, but her voice carried down the hallway.

The demigod paused. "For now, he has to; it's the only thing that's going to keep him sane."

"Are you sure it's safe?" Serena's eyes fell to the knife in the waistband of her husband's pants.

He turned, facing her. "It's not safe for him to be with anyone else but me right now." He slid his hand down her cheek. "Don't worry. I'll be fine. We both will."

Nebula waited until Hercules returned to the living quarters before speaking again. "I want to go with you."

He sighed. "I know you do, but that's...not a good idea. Something...or someone is telling Iolaus to....kill you. This trip's going to be tough enough without having to protect you as we go along."

"I can protect myself."

"Not against the power of the gods."

"And what's to keep him from coming back, Hercules? Do you think you can stop him if he tries?"

He smiled. "I did it once; I can do it again. Just trust me, Nebula. When Iolaus and I return, he will be in one piece and the way you know him." He opened his arms and the woman who had once been a fearsome pirate, stepped into his embrace, laying her head on his shoulder.

"Be careful," she whispered.

"Hey, you know me. I'm always careful." He stepped away to embrace his wife. "I'll be back as soon as I can."

She smiled up at him, though her lips were trembling. "Where have I heard that before?" She handed him the pack of supplies she'd prepared.

He touched his lips to hers in a gentle kiss. "You won't even have time to miss me."

"You've said something like that before. Do you remember what I told you then?"

He laughed softly. "I remember. Take care; give the kids a kiss for me." He held her hand until he reached the door. Then, as he began walking, he released it inch by inch until only their fingertips touched. He turned, gave her one more encouraging smile, and allowed his hand to drop to his side.

Iolaus was pacing around the boulder, his hands clasped in front of him to quell the shaking. His eyes were red-rimmed, rather from crying or lack of sleep, Hercules wasn't sure. The hunter waited for his friend to draw near before he spoke. "How was Nebula?"

"Concerned about you." The demigod responded, slinging the pack over his shoulder. "You ready?"

Skimming his hands down the legs of his pants, Iolaus gave him a smile that wavered. "I'm not sure, but I don't suppose I have a whole lot of choices, do I?"

"Not if you're going to beat this thing."

"You're not scared to travel with me now?"

Hercules laughed. "Iolaus, we've been through too much together for me to turn my back on you now. It'll just be one more adventure we can share with our grandkids."

Iolaus nodded his head shortly. "Yeah, I suppose....if I make it that long."

The demigod froze. "What are you talking about? Of course you're going to make it that long. I'm here to make sure that you will."

The hunter's smile was strained. "Maybe...there's a force that even you can't win against, Hercules."

Giving his friend a slight shove forward, Hercules ignored the cloud of doom that beckoned him. "We'll just see about that."

But Iolaus wasn't ready to walk yet. Clenching his hands into fists, he turned to face his friend once more. "I'm going to ask you to do something for me. It's something that I've never asked you for before."

"Iolaus, you know that I'll do whatever you need."

Swallowing past the lump in his throat, the hunter continued. "I'm counting on that because if this doesn't work, if Morpheus wins, Herk, I don't want to live like that. Promise me that you won't let me."

The demigod paled beneath his tan. "I know what you're asking; I'm just not sure that I can do it."

Iolaus' hand shot out, gripped his friend's arm. "You can if you know that I don't want to live out the rest of my life as a lunatic. Nebula wouldn't even know me; I wouldn't want her or Alcmene to see me like that. Please, Hercules. Promise me that, if we don't win this battle, that you'll end my life. Please."

Hercules looked down at his hands, turning them palms up. Could he do as his friend asked? Could he strike the blow that would end his friend's life? His heart told him no and lifting his gaze, he focused on Iolaus' pleading face. "It's not going to come to that, Iolaus."

"But I'm asking for your word that you won't let me live like that, Hercules."

That much, he could promise because he wasn't about to let Morpheus win. "I promise, Iolaus. You won't live your life as a lunatic."

Satisfied for now, Iolaus began walking. His voice was quiet when he resumed the conversation. "You didn't just promise to kill me, did you?"

Hercules knew he couldn't lie to him. "No, I didn't."

"And you won't promise, will you?"

"Iolaus, I can't promise to take your life because I know that it's not something that I could do. You're my best friend. Best friends don't kill one another." He tried to make the statement light, but it didn't work.

Iolaus shot him a glance and nodded. "I'm sorry; it was asking too much."

Hercules caught his arm, drawing him to a stop. "It's not that it was too much." He broke off, lowering his gaze. "Before, when you were killed, a part of me died, too. And when you came back, life was complete again. We've been through so much together, Iolaus, and I don't even want to think about not having you around again. We'll just take this one step at a time, but I'm not going to lose you again."

The blond man smiled. "You sound very determined."

"More than you know, buddy." There was a determined edge to the demigod's voice that the hunter recognized. Hercules would win no matter the cost. For the first time in two weeks, Iolaus found himself relaxing.

"Iolaus, you're trying to run from your destiny. It's no use. Wake up. Wake up and do my bidding. Hercules has interfered. Now, you must kill him before you can fulfill your destiny." The hissing voice called out to Iolaus in the night even as they walked.

Iolaus shook his head, trying to shake away the voice. "No!"

Hercules stopped walking. "Iolaus? Are you alright?"

The hunter gave his head another vigorous shake. "It's back, Hercules. The voice is back." He looked up, his blue eyes glazing with another spirit. "I have to kill you. You interfered. That's not the way; he doesn't like it." He moved forward slowly.

"Uh-oh," Hercules took a step backwards. Seeing the cold, calculating look in his friend's eyes, he knew this wasn't going to be easy. "I should be used to things not being easy," he muttered below his breath. Aloud, he tried to talk Iolaus out of a fight. "You don't want to do this, buddy. We've been down this road before. You don't want to hurt me anymore than I want to hurt you." Seeing that he wasn't getting through, he tried another tactic. "Iolaus, we're best friends. You can't take my life, you know that. Morpheus is doing this to you; you have to fight him! You know that I'm only trying to help you."

"Ahhhhh!" Iolaus yelled as he dived forward.

Hercules side-stepped with a twirl and ended up facing his friend once more. "Iolaus, listen to me! He's using you to get to me, to get me out of the way just like Xena did before. You came to your senses then; you can do it now."

"Iolaus, obey me!"

Clutching his head in his hands, Iolaus spun around, eyes shut as the pain exploded through his temples. "No-o-o-o!" He screamed, lunging toward Hercules once more. By sheer momentum, he managed to topple the tall half-god to the ground. Using the advantage, he began to pummel him, but Hercules blocked the hits with his gauntlets, trying to allow the hunter to tire before he took the upper hand. With each swipe of Iolaus' fists, the pain receded until suddenly, it dissipated altogether...along with the voice. Still sitting astride his best friend, the blond man looked down, his vision clearing. "Hercules? What's going on?" He scrambled to his feet, eyes still trained on his fallen partner.

Grunting, the demigod rolled to his feet. "You mean, before or after you started hitting me?" He fingered his jaw. "That's a good right you have there, by the way."

Iolaus looked horrified. "I hit you?"

Twin eyebrows lifted. "More than once."

"I....I'm sorry. I..don't know what happened." Exhaling loudly, he walked away, head lowered. "What's happening to me? I tried to kill my wife and now I've attacked my best friend. What's going on?"

Hercules approached him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "You didn't know what you were doing, Iolaus. Both Nebula and I know that this isn't you. We'll get to the bottom of this. Meanwhile, I have an idea that just might work to block those voices. Come with me."

Iolaus eyed the paste that Hercules had concocted with mud and several other ingredients he was pretty sure he didn't want to know. "Are you sure this is going to work?"

"I've seen Asclepsius use it before; it worked then. Come on. It's worth a try."

The hunter didn't budge. "So, what am I supposed to do with it?" If his friend said 'eat it', he was out of there.

"Rub it on your temples." Laughing at his friend's displeased expression, Hercules got to his feet. "It's either this or you deal with your unwelcome guest."

Hand dipping into the mud mixture, Iolaus grimaced. "Anything's better than hearing him again. Good thing I don't have anybody to impress out here. So, what exactly do these herbs do anyway?" A strange buzzing sounded in his head and he glanced up at his friend. "Herk, something doesn't feel right."

"Yeah, I forgot to tell you that you'll hear funny noises for a few minutes before the herbs take effect."

"Funny noises?"

Hercules grinned down at him. "Can't be any worse than the voice."

The buzzing intensified and Iolaus wobbled as he tried to stand. "Speak for yourself, partner." Catching a hold of Hercules' arm to steady himself, he waited for the initial reaction to subside before taking another step. "And exactly how long is a few minutes?" He spoke louder to hear himself.

The demigod shook his ear that had taken the brunt of the shout. "I'm not sure. I didn't stay around very long after Asclepsius used it on the traveler. But the last time I ran into the guy, he was much better."

The buzzing began to recede only to be replaced by a loud whooshing noise like the sound of the waves lapping the shore. Maybe this wasn't so bad. At least he couldn't hear the voice. "Okay, well, we'd better get going."

"Hang on." Stooping, Hercules scooped up the mixture and dumped in into a leather pouch. "You have to reapply this every few hours or the effect wears off."

"You mean, I get to hear these strange noises every few hours?"

The grin was back. "Something like that."

"Hercules, if I find out that there was an easier way to do this..." He let the threat go unfinished as his friend laughed.

"We need to hurry if we're going to make it to Morpheus' labyrinth by nightfall. Knowing him, he'll be expecting us....which isn't always a pleasant thing."

"How can we be so sure that Morpheus is doing this? I mean, you did say that other gods can get into our minds."

"Yeah, but Morpheus is the God of Dreams; he's the only god that can change our dreams into nightmares and make them seem real."

Iolaus gave a short snort of derision. "But why would he want to invade my dreams? I thought he generally left the mortals alone unless they'd done something really, really bad and deserved the nightmares."

"I suppose we'll find out once we're there." Hercules led the way down the narrow, one-man path.

"Hey, the noise is gone! No noises, no voices! This is great. I'd almost forgotten how good sanity feels." Iolaus laughed at his own joke then sobered abruptly. "Hercules, I didn't hurt Nebula, did I?"

"Nebula was fine when we left."

"And you? I didn't hurt you, did I?"

Hercules stopped, angling a gaze toward his friend. If his body had taken a few of the punches and his ribs were a little sore, well, those weren't things that his friend needed to know right now. "No, Iolaus, you didn't hurt me."

"Good." Iolaus nodded his satisfaction. "Cause, you know I would never hurt you intentionally, Herk."

The demigod smiled. "I know that. Now, come on."

They were coming. He could feel them, sense their presence. He should have known that the little man wouldn't come alone. Hercules was with him. His protector, no doubt. Well, he would need it. Killing the blond hunter was much too easy, but driving him insane, well, that was something that all the gods could enjoy for a long time to come. And he would achieve his greatest victory yet. Laughing, the god retreated to his dais to await his visitors.

Hercules paused at the opening to the cave, his brow furrowed.

"What's wrong?"

"Shh." The demigod took a step forward. He listened for a few seconds longer before responding. "This is a little too easy. Morpheus always has a couple of goons guarding the gate. He doesn't allow just anyone to pass into his labyrinth."

"Great. I guess that means you were right again; he is expecting us."

"I guess so." Hercules trained his gaze on his best friend. "Are you ready?"

"Do I have a choice?" He took a step.

"Wait." The demigod proffered the pouch. "Use some more of this. The powers are going to be stronger in here. You'll need an extra dose."

"Yeah, good idea." Iolaus slathered the mixture on his temples once more and straightened. "Okay. I'm ready when you are."

The interior of the cave was dark and musty. No torches were lit and complete silence descended over the two men as they moved farther inside. A large stone rolled into place, obscuring the entrance and from what Iolaus could see, the only means of escape.

"Yeah, he's expecting us, alright." Hercules muttered. "This way." His eyes adjusted to the dark, he was able to make out the narrow hallway that led to Morpheus' domain.

Swallowing hard, the golden-haired hunter trailed after his friend. Even knowing what was at stake, a part of him still wanted to dive for cover...and he'd never ran from a challenge in his life. It wasn't that he was scared of Morpheus. Actually, he was more scared of what the god could make him do to his friends and family.

"Greetings, Hercules." An imposing figure, clad in flowing black robes with a shock of white hair, strolled forward down the hallway. Torches shot with fire as he passed and he stopped just as he reached the pair. "Welcome to my kingdom."

"I'm not here for a social visit, Morpheus, but then, you know that already. In fact, you know why I'm here. Did you actually think that I would let you harm my best friend and not interfere?" Hercules took two steps forward to come face to face with the God of Dreams.

The god's smile didn't reach his eyes. "You came in a futile attempt to save your friend from insanity. How noble of you."

"Futile?" Iolaus spluttered. "What have I ever done to you? Why are you tormenting me?"

Morpheus' eyes didn't stray from Zeus' son. "Actually, Hercules, it's more what your friend did to all the gods."

Folding his arms across his chest, Hercules waited for the answer.

This time, the god did direct his attention toward the hunter. "It was because of you that Dahak first entered Greece."

"Oh, come on! You can't be holding a grudge after all this time! It's been two, three winters since that happened!" Hercules' patent disbelief only served to further irritate the god.

"If you will let me finish, Hercules...." He glowered at the half-god, straightening his robes before continuing his dialogue. "It was because of you that the gods had to suffer in the netherworld, but we did nothing in retaliation because Hercules is your friend and he saved us. For that, we were grateful. However, you have blatantly ignored the gods for most of your life. You refuse to make sacrifices, give offerings or even acknowledge the gods except for in the most demeaning terms. As we have determined that we will no longer tolerate this kind of...blasphemy, the other gods and I have decreed that you will be an example to the other disrespectful mortals. Oh," He held up one skinny finger. "I suppose you're wondering why you. Well, simply put, it's because you're very well known because of your association with Zeus' son as well as the part you played in the arrival of Dahak. Using you as an example will garner the attention of many." He shrugged. "That is why you have been chosen."

"You can't be serious!" Iolaus exclaimed. "I'm to be used as an example because I think the gods are petty and useless?"

Morpheus waved a hand toward the hunter. "See, Hercules? This is exactly what I'm talking about!"

"Morpheus, if the gods have chosen Iolaus as an example, then why not just kill him?"

"Hey, whose side are you on?" The blond man protested.

Hercules held up a hand to silence him. "Are you going to answer me, Morpheus?"

The God of Dreams tilted his head to one side, indecision written across his face. "I'm not sure that's something that you need to know."

"Well, considering that I'm not going anywhere, we might as well pass the time with conversation." The demigod raised his eyebrows inquiringly.

Morpheus sighed heavily. "Why don't we talk in the labyrinth? It's a much more..pleasant place to discuss matters such as these."

"You mean matters such as my death?" Iolaus queried sharply. "Yeah, my surroundings really concern me at a time like this."

Closing his eyes, the god tried to focus, to carry his voice into the hunter's conscience, but he was stopped short. With a slow, knowing smile, he focused his attention on the half-god standing beside the blond man. "The herbs were a very clever idea, Hercules. They appear to be working."

Hercules smiled grimly. "Well, that is what they're supposed to do."

Iron-gray eyes narrowed in ire, the god pivoted and stalked back down the stony corridor, robe billowing behind him.

"He's a barrel of laughs," Iolaus muttered.

"Yeah, he's right up there with the rest of the gods who have absolutely no personality." Hercules swept his hand in front of him. "After you."

"Oh, no, I insist," Iolaus stepped back.

"I'll bet you do." The demigod took the lead with a grumble.

Morpheus was seated atop the dais in a high-backed throne made entirely of gold. In his hand, he held a golden wand which he waved rhythmically in front of him. "Ah, good. So nice of you to join me. Please have a seat. Iolaus, you haven't yet told me how your lovely wife is doing."

"You son-of-a...." Iolaus started toward the smug god, fury in his steps, but Hercules wisely intervened, blocking his friend's progress with his own body.

"Iolaus, he's just trying to bait you. Let it go."

"Because of him I almost killed Nebula!" The hunter spit out, struggling to get around the tall half-god.

Hercules caught hold of his shoulders, stilling him. "And he knows how that makes you feel inside. That's how he's able to get inside your head, to feed off your anger. Just let it go." Releasing his friend, he turned around. "So, what now, Morpheus? Why haven't you killed him?"

"Because killing would be too easy; it wouldn't show nearly enough example as an insane hero would. You see," the god stroked his clean-shaven chin thoughtfully, "a lot of mortals actually look up to your friend, Hercules." He gave the two men a 'go figure' look and shrugged. "Killing him is too quick. Insanity has so many more...possibilities, don't you think?"

"There has to be an out, Morpheus. You could have finished the job long before now. So, why don't you tell me why you've allowed Iolaus and me to join you in your labyrinth?"

"You always were too smart for your own good, Hercules." The God of Dreams chuckled. "It's quite simple really. Iolaus has to survive the dream...escape from it himself. This is one time that you can't help him."

Iolaus was already shaking his head. There was no way that he would voluntarily go back into the world where Nebula's blood was on his hands. "No. I won't do it."

The bony shoulders lifted in another careless shrug. "Fine. Then, your wife and daughter die at your hands and you spend the rest of your life as a maniac."

Two short strides carried Hercules to the throne and with a low growl, he lifted the god from his perch. "Why are you doing this, Morpheus?" Suddenly, he released him, realization dawning. "This doesn't have anything to do with Iolaus' denial of the gods, does it?"

Morpheus straightened his robes and glared at the demigod. "You're only postponing the inevitable, Hercules. Iolaus must survive the dream."

"Let me take the dream for him," the half-god offered.

"No, Hercules," Iolaus stepped forward, placing his hand on his friend's arm. "If it has to be done, then I'll do it."

Morpheus smiled, an evil grin that sent chills down the hunter's spine. "Very good. The rules are simple. The dream will be the same as before. You must somehow prevent yourself from taking your wife's life. If you succeed, you will be allowed to return to a normal life. If you fail, this time, Nebula's death will be real. So, her life is in your hands basically." He chortled at his own attempt at levity. "You cannot try to awaken from the dream. If you do, the threads will be broken and Nebula will die anyway. So, it is in your best interest to remain asleep."

"How do you fight a dream?" Iolaus wondered aloud.

"That's something you will have to discover for yourself."

Hercules pulled his friend to one side, lowering his voice to barely above a whisper. "Iolaus, Morpheus is going to place obstacles in your path. Concentrate on the knife and what you do with it. The other obstacles won't be real. Just focus and keep your mind on what's important...saving Nebula's life. When you go to sleep, make that your mantra."

"Do you think that will work?"

"It has to. Good luck, my friend."

"Are you ready, Iolaus?" Morpheus' eyes gleamed with anticipation.

The blond man ran damp palms down the legs of his pants before nodding. "What do I need to do?"

"Just close your eyes." The god instructed, slicing his hand in the air to bring the sleep that would induce the deadly dream.

Iolaus could see her standing on the shore. The wind was blowing her hair around her face and she kept brushing it away. Alcmene was asleep on a bed of grass, her angelic face turned upwards toward the sun. Nebula was singing; he couldn't hear the words but the melody whispered through the noises of the wind. Smiling, he approached her, calling her name.

Nebula turned to face him, her face wearing a smile of her own. "Iolaus, I wasn't expecting you home so soon. Did everything go okay?"

He reached her side, drawing her close to him. "Everything went great. I...." he looked down at his free hand. Blood. Staring, he backed away. "There's blood on my hand."

"Did you hurt yourself?" Nebula gave an evil laugh and moved so swiftly that he didn't have time to react. In her hand, she bore a knife which she now held aloft. "Here. Maybe this will help."

Shaking his head, Iolaus gave her a shove that toppled her into the ocean. "You're not my wife!" In an instant, she disappeared. He turned. Even the baby was gone. Taking a deep breath, he walked the shore line, hoping to find her.

"He's passed the first test, Hercules," Morpheus admitted with some annoyance.

Hercules didn't allow himself to relax. "Now that he knows the rules, Iolaus will win."

"Don't bet on it."

"Oh, but I do."

"Iolaus, wake up! It's time for you to leave. Hercules is waiting outside for you." Nebula's voice awakened him from a deep, restful sleep.

Opening his eyes, he relaxed when he saw her smile. "Nebula, I had the worst nightmare. I dreamed that I kept having these dreams where I...killed you and then Hercules and I had to go to Morpheus' labyrinth and then I had to fall asleep again...to win in the dreams." Taking a deep gulp of air, he shook his head. "It was horrible."

"That's what you get for eating before you go to bed. Now, get up. Hercules is waiting."

"Wait a minute. Waiting for what? We weren't supposed to go anywhere today...not that I can remember."

Nebula pushed him from the bed. "Of course you were. Now, get going."

Still hesitant, the hunter watched her. "Where were we going?"

Hissing low, the black-haired woman lunged at him, her nails raking a bloody path down his face. "Just do as I tell you!" She shrieked in fury.

Iolaus swung her over onto the mattress, pinning her beneath him. "Nebula, what's gotten into you?"

"You bastard! Get off of me!" She bucked beneath him, fighting him with strength he didn't know she possessed. The knife was back, pressed against his throat. "Now, I said, get off of me!"

In the blink of an eye, Iolaus whisked the dagger from her grasp and lowered it against her throat. "You're not my wife, are you?"

"Then kill me!" She screamed, rage boiling in her eyes.

With all the willpower he possessed, Iolaus tossed the knife across the room, feeling the anger seep out of his body. "No. I won't kill you."

"Damn you!" The apparition disintegrated and Iolaus was alone once more.

Morpheus cleared his throat and shifted uncomfortably, tucking his robes tighter around his spindly legs. "Well, it would appear that your friend is smarter than I gave him credit for."

This time, Hercules did relax, if only slightly. "He knows how you think, Morpheus. He knows you're going to throw obstacles in his path. He will win."

Without responding, the god lifted his hand and began the next dream sequence.

He was home, but even before he opened the door, he knew something was wrong. Hercules

was there, standing by the kitchen table, sorrow in his eyes. Serena came forward to meet him halfway, taking his hands in hers. "I'm so sorry, Iolaus."

"Sorry? What are you talking about? Why are all of you standing here looking so glum?" His heart constricted in his chest and he cast a glance toward the closed bedroom door. "Where's Nebula?"

Hercules intercepted him before he could make his way to the bedroom. "While you were gone, Nebula had gone down to the creek. There was..." the demigod pulled in a deep breath before continuing, "she was...bitten by a snake, Iolaus. The healer's with her now."

Fear in his eyes, the hunter pushed past his friend to enter his bedroom, taking in the bloated body of his wife twisting upon the sheets. He was at her side in an instant, his hands touching her, trying to soothe her. "Nebula, I'm here."

She opened her eyes, blinked once before sliding her hand in his. "Iolaus, I...hurt."

An invisible knife pierced deep into the recesses of his heart. "There's got to be something that you can do for her." He directed the statement toward the healer lurking in the corner.

"I wish there was, Iolaus. As it is now, Nebula could linger like this for days, if not longer. She's in a lot of pain and I've given her something for it, but unfortunately, it's not helping."

Iolaus rounded on him. "Are you telling me that not only is my wife going to die, but she's going to suffer horribly for however long it takes her to die?"

The healer grimaced. "I'm so sorry, Iolaus. My hands are tied."

"Get out." He gave the robed man a shove toward the door. "I will not let my wife suffer! Now get out of here." He retrieved his dagger from the sheath at his waist. "Nebula, I can't let you lie here in pain."

Agony-filled eyes lifted to feast on her husband's face and she licked dry lips. "Do it, Iolaus. Please. I don't....want...to...live...like this." Her hand lifted beseechingly.

"I love you," he whispered against her ear.

Morpheus' eyes gleamed in anticipation while Hercules watched the scene unfolding with fear, powerless to help his best friend.

"I will always love you, Iolaus. Nothing will ever change that...not even my death."

The God of Dreams chortled happily.

Iolaus raised the knife, his hand shaking. "I don't know if I can do this, Nebula."

"You have to. I'm in so much pain. Don't let me live like this, Iolaus."

Hercules closed his eyes, trying to focus, to concentrate. He had to make Iolaus hear him somehow, to make him realize that it was all a trick. Ignoring Morpheus' chuckles, he shut out everything but the repetitive words echoing through his mind...words that he hoped his friend could hear. He knew that he wouldn't have much time before Morpheus shut him out, so, he could only hope the four words were enough.

"Don't kill her, Iolaus."

Iolaus pulled back, the knife still held aloft. His head whipped around as his eyes scanned the room. He could have sworn that he'd just heard Hercules' voice, but his friend was still in the other room. Shaking his head, he focused on his wife once more. He must be imagining things.

"Don't kill her, Iolaus!"

This time, the hunter took a visible step backwards, his face paling. It was his friend's voice that he was hearing. And Hercules wouldn't tell him not to end Nebula's life unless he had a reason; he knew something. It didn't matter to Iolaus that he himself didn't know the reason; it was enough that his best friend knew. Once again, he was trying to protect him. He would follow Hercules' command, no matter the odds. "Nebula, I can't kill you."

"Iolaus, you have to kill me! I'm in agony! Please." Tears streaked her cheeks as she begged him.

His tears matched hers. "I c-can't." His hand opened and the knife dropped to the floor. Backing toward the door, he closed his eyes against the torment of her face. "I'm sorry. I can't kill you."

When Iolaus opened his eyes the next time, he was back in Morpheus' labyrinth. He blinked once, twice, taking in his best friend's uncertain gaze and the God of Dreams' glare. "Am I...is everything alright?"

"Your wife lives if that's what you're asking." Morpheus grumbled, waving a hand toward the open entrance. "You and Hercules are free to leave."

"Not so fast," Hercules inserted, planting himself in front of the god's dais. "Now do you want to tell me what this was all about?"

"I could still win, you know," the god began in a rumbling voice, "but I always keep my word. That's why your friend is free to leave."

"You haven't answered my question."

"I was to take Nebula for my own bride."

Iolaus sucked in a deep breath and moved forward slowly. "B-but if I had failed, Nebula would have been dead."

Morpheus laughed. "That's what I told you, Iolaus. I had no intention of allowing her to die. I had chosen her for my own."

"She's already married," the hunter spoke through gritted teeth.

"Your insanity would have led to your death eventually. Then, Nebula would have been free to marry me."

"You're the one that's insane, Morpheus!" Iolaus was livid, approaching the god with no thought for his own welfare. "You play sick games with people's lives all on a whim and you think you have a good life. You're a sad, miserable little bastard who doesn't deserve to exist and were it in my power to do so, I would take you out of this world in the blink of an eye! Do you have any idea what you put me and my family through? And my friends? I tried to kill my own wife, attacked my best friend and all because you had eyes for Nebula!" He took an unsuspected leap onto the dais and caught the god around the throat, squeezing unmercifully.

Struggling against the mortal's surprising strength, Morpheus gasped. "Hercules, get your friend off of me unless you want me to kill him now!"

Hercules was already on the dais, pulling Iolaus away from the god, backing him down the steps. "Iolaus, calm down. I know, I know. I'd...feel the same way, but this doesn't solve anything."

Morpheus rubbed his throat and shot a furious look at the blond hunter. "You're lucky I don't kill you for this anyway."

"Oh, yeah?" Iolaus pulled away from his friend's grasp and stepped forward. "Go ahead. Hit me with your best shot!"

"Iolaus," Hercules steered him away once more, positioning his body in between his friend and the God of Dreams. "I think it's time we left."

"I'm not done with him yet, Hercules."

"You are if you know what's good for you!" Morpheus spat.

"Come on, let's go," forcefully guiding the hunter toward the exit, Hercules tossed a look over his shoulder. "This isn't over yet, Morpheus. I'm not quite through with you."

The god shrugged, apparently unconcerned at the veiled threat. "I look forward to anything you have to offer, Hercules."

Iolaus shrugged out of the demigod's hold and turned around to glare at him. "You should have let me take him, Hercules. He deserved it."

"I know he does, but you're not thinking clearly. He's a god, Iolaus. He could have killed you! And if you think I'm going to stand by and watch that happen again, you're wrong." The demigod gave his friend a look that carried a wealth of meaning. It said more than the words ever could. Things like: I lost you once; I don't want to lose you again. I don't know what I'd do if anything were to happen to you, my friend.

Some of the anger drained out of the hunter's body. Shoulders slumped, he raked a hand through his tousled blond hair. "Yeah, you're right. I-I'm sorry, Herk. I guess I just went a little crazy there."

Hercules dropped a hand to his friend's shoulder. "And you had every right to. Now, let's go home. I know that Nebula's worried about you." He started walking and Iolaus dropped into step beside him.

"Hey, what did you mean when you said that this wasn't over?"

"I don't think Morpheus will give up this easily."

Iolaus gave a disbelieving snort. "And you think that was easy?"

The demigod grinned, giving his friend a slight shove forward. "What are you complaining about? That was a piece of cake compared to some of the other situations we've lived through."

Iolaus laughed in agreement.

The little old man stumbled along, his shoulders bent from the load he was carrying on his back. A tattered hood covered his head while gnarled hands clutched the robe tightly around his bony frame. Coughing, he squinted his eyes to see the road ahead.

"Here, let me help you with that," Hercules approached the stranger and removed the heavy pack.

"That's not necessary," the little old man straightened and morphed into the King of the Gods. "What took you so long to get here?"

Hercules shook his head. "What are you doing here, Father?"

"Waiting for you." He tossed an acknowledging look in Iolaus' direction. "I saw what happened with Morpheus and assumed that your next step would be to come to me."

"You assumed incorrectly...as usual. You know me better than that. I don't make a habit out of asking for help, Zeus, especially your help."

"It doesn't matter anyway," Iolaus moved forward quickly. "I think it's over."

Zeus trained his gaze on the hunter. "Then you're thinking is incorrect. Morpheus has chosen Nebula for his next wife. He won't stop until he gets her."

"But he gave his word!"

"Which, you should know by now, means little in the world the gods live in," Hercules bit out.

Zeus didn't take offense. "You know I can't interfere in the ways of the gods, Son."

The demigod tossed his hands in the air and whirled around. "How did I know you were going to say that? This is exactly why I didn't come to you. I didn't want to waste my time."

"You know that I would help if I could."

"Yeah, right. Well, once again, it's been great talking to you, Dad." Hercules turned to leave.

"Hercules, wait a minute," Iolaus stepped forward to come face to face with the King of the Gods. "Are you telling me that Morpheus can do whatever he wants and you're powerless to stop him?"

Eyebrows cinched together in a thunderous scowl as Zeus glared down at the brave blond man. "I am never powerless, Boy."

"Then, why can't you do anything?"

"Because it's just not done."

"Who makes these rules, Father?" Hercules whipped back around. "You? Because if you made them, I don't understand why you can't bend them. Or is that beyond the scope of your power? I guess I never thought of you as helpless before."

Zeus gritted his teeth. "I am not helpless."

"I can go up against, Morpheus, just as I have most of the gods in your kingdom and I will win. Is that what you what me to do? Take down your gods one at a time?" Hercules' chest rose and fell with each agitated breath.

"This isn't as easy as you make it sound, Hercules. Think of what a precedent I would be setting if I played favorites...."

Hercules held up one hand. "I'm not asking you to play favorites. In fact, I'm not asking you for anything. You're here by choice. I'll take care of this myself because Iolaus is my best friend. What affects him, affects me. Can't you see that?" He shook his head sadly. "No, I guess you can't. You wouldn't understand what it's like to care for someone besides yourself."

"You need a little more practice on buttering someone up, Boy," Zeus growled almost below his breath.

The demigod didn't smile. "I won't let Morpheus harm Iolaus again. I will destroy him first. Then, what's going to happen if no one can dream? You know, I've heard..."

Zeus held up one lined hand. "Alright, alright. I get your point! You want me to talk to him, I'll talk to him, but I'm not making any promises." With one last disapproving look at his son, he disappeared.

"Why should that surprise me?" Hercules muttered. "Let's get going."

"Where to now?" Iolaus walked beside his best friend, face tilted to see as well as hear his response.

"Home."

"You mean, that's it? We're going home? But I thought you didn't trust Zeus."

"I don't, but Nebula needs to know you're safe before we do anything else. Don't worry. You're not in this alone. I'm not going to let Morpheus win."

"I can fight my own battles, Herk." Iolaus felt the need to defend himself.

Hercules smiled. "I know you can, but we've always backed each other up. Why change what's always worked?"

Iolaus laughed. "Yeah, I guess you're right. Let's go home." He'd barely taken two steps forward when a sharp, searing pain shot through his temple, bringing him to his knees. Gasping for breath, he held his head in his hands and rolled forward.

"Iolaus?" Hercules was on his knees beside his friend, his hand on his shoulder. "What's happening?"

"D-don't know." The hunter managed to say between hisses of breath.

Jumping back to his feet, the demigod addressed the sky. "I know this is your doing, Morpheus! Have the courage to show yourself!" Livid, Hercules paced in a circle around his downed friend. "I'm not going to stand here and watch my friend die! I swear I will take you apart a piece at a time!"

The air shimmered with a bright, white light as the God of Dreams made his appearance. He was wearing a satisfied smile and a blue velvet robe that did little to enhance his pale skin. "So, you think you can threaten me, Hercules? I could kill your friend right here and now." He clicked his tongue against his teeth in a gesture of sympathy. "While I apologize in advance for the pain his demise will cause you, I fear that it's simply unavoidable." He lifted gray eyes tinged with the smoke of irritation. "And I do admire your ability to force the King of the Gods to do your bidding. Quite impressive. But you see, there's nothing that Zeus can do to stop me. He has always held to the tradition that he doesn't interfere with the other gods." Morpheus lowered a hand toward Iolaus' head.

As the pain intensified, the hunter gave a low groan and fell to his side, closing his eyes against the blinding agony.

"Morpheus, I will kill you myself if you continue this!" Hercules' voice was rife with an agony of his own. He couldn't, wouldn't, stand here and watch his best friend die. He'd been down that road before. There was no way in hell that he was going there again.

The God of Dreams laughed delightedly. "Hercules, I am a god, an immortal. You can't kill me. Only the blood of a hind can do that and we all know that your wife is no longer of that species. So, unable to stop me, you are forced to watch in horror as your friend takes another walk into the Underworld." His hand inched even closer until his fingertips brushed Iolaus' blond hair.

Giving a low growl of fury, Hercules charged forward, knocking the god aside, breaking the spell, if temporarily. "I have never been one to stand idly by, Morpheus; even you should know that."

Scrambling to right himself, the god brushed a trembling hand down the front of his robe, trying to dislodge the clinging leaves. "Well, you certainly are protective of your little friend." He tried to brush aside his embarrassment as easily as he brushed the dirt away from his body. "I really, really don't want to have to hurt you, Hercules."

The demigod gave a short laugh. "You can try, but you and I both know that the only way you can hurt someone is through their mind. You can't hurt me like that, Morpheus. My father's blood stops you. You can invade my dreams only with the help of another god, but you can't affect me the way you're affecting Iolaus now." He cast a glance over his shoulder, relieved to find his friend climbing to his feet. "Feeling better?"

The golden-haired hunter rubbed a hand over the back of his neck, wincing. "A little." He lifted his head long enough to glare at the pale-faced god standing before him. "You're determined to kill me, aren't you?"

Morpheus smiled. "Only if I have to. Now, if you were to agree to release Nebula, I might reconsider."

"Release Nebula?" Leaning forward, Iolaus lowered his voice to a furious rumble. "When Tartarus freezes over and all the little demons slide across the ice."

Shoulders lifting in a helpless shrug, Morpheus tossed Hercules a 'what can I do' glance before raising his hand once more. But Hercules was quicker, positioning himself in between the god and his friend. "Step aside, Hercules. You can't protect him forever."

"I don't need forever. I only need until I put you out of business which is going to be right now," the demigod responded through gritted teeth. His hand shot forward, catching hold of the blue velvet robe. Lifting the slight god into the air until his feet dangled, he leveled a look that made even the white-haired immortal swallow hard.

"As I've said before, you can't kill me, Hercules."

"Maybe not, but I can make you wish you were able to die."

Another hard swallow. "Yeah, well, maybe we should talk about this." Morpheus had never been big on physical fights, always using his mental abilities to destroy his enemies. Now, faced with an enemy he couldn't destroy, he knew when it was best to retreat until he had the advantage once more.

"There's no use talking; we already know that you don't keep your word." Not releasing his hold, Hercules carried the god over toward a nearby tree and leaned against it. "So, the way I see it, we have two options. One, I can make your life so miserable that you will be too glad to stay away from Iolaus or two, you can agree to stay away from him now with the understanding that if you break your word, I'll come back for you. And," he leaned his face closer to the god's, "you don't want me to have to come back, Morpheus. You might be a god, but you won't win against me. Your petty little mind games won't work and since that's the only power you have at your disposal, I will take you apart and feed you to the other gods."

Eyes glittering malevolently, Morpheus sneered. "You won't be around all the time, Hercules. I could kill your friend in the blink of an eye, leaving you to pick up the pieces."

Hercules' hand moved from the robe to the god's throat in a punishing hold. "I don't think you really want to do that."

"Zeus will hear about this. You cannot interfere with the gods!"

"That's where you're wrong. Only my father doesn't interfere with the gods. I, on the other hand, make it my life's work to prevent any of you from harming innocent people. Iolaus has done nothing to you and believe me when I say that Nebula wouldn't want anything to do with you if you kill her husband. Do you really want a woman who despises you?" Slowly, Hercules lowered the God of Dreams back to the ground.

Morpheus bandied a glance back and forth between the two heros before tugging his robe back into place. "Well, I can certainly see your point, Hercules. However, I do take offense at being treated this way. I think that you and I shall meet again...but on my ground next time."

Hercules' lips twisted into a sarcastic smile. "Oh, I look forward to it. I suppose this means that you're agreeing to leave Iolaus and his family alone?"

Lips thinning in displeasure, the god jerked a nod. "I'm not afraid of you."

The demigod's shoulders lifted in a careless shrug. "That makes no difference to me, Morpheus. The only thing I'm concerned with is your promise that you're going to leave my friend and his family alone. Otherwise, you'll see me again sooner than you think."

"Very well, son of Zeus. I will leave your friend and his family alone...for now, but I make no promises beyond this first round." The hand was back at his neck, squeezing against his vocal cords.

"That's not good enough," Hercules ground out.

"Hercules, put him down!" came Zeus' thunderous voice.

"Stay out of this, Zeus!" Hercules' voice was just as powerful.

"You can't go around threatening the gods!"

Iolaus, the pain having dissipated, managed a quick laugh. "Where have you been all these years?"

"I'm not releasing him until he agrees to leave Iolaus and his family alone...for good." Hercules directed his gaze toward his father. "And this is one time, you can't interfere. This isn't your fight, Father. Isn't that what you always tell me?"

Zeus shifted uncomfortably. "Son, Morpheus will leave Iolaus alone."

"You can't make his promises for him."

"I am the King of the Gods!" Zeus' affront was evident. "I can do whatever I choose. And I choose to make this vow for him. Morpheus will do as I say or he will be properly punished."

"You're forgetting, Zeus. I know all about your punishment for the gods. Knowing he's only going to get a slap on the wrist won't stop him from killing Iolaus."

Zeus' face darkened into a severe scowl. "You're starting to annoy me, Boy."

"What else is new?" Hercules dropped Morpheus to the ground and pointed a finger down at him. "Stay put." Stepping across the prone form, he came eye to eye with his father. "What exactly did you say to him when you 'talked' to him, Father?"

Zeus pulled himself up to his full height, meeting his son's gaze boldly. "You forget yourself, Hercules. Not only am I your father, but I am also the King of the Gods. You have no right to question my actions."

The demigod's breath puffed out in exasperation. "What actions, Father? You didn't do anything. You told me what I wanted to hear and then ran to Morpheus to tell him that you weren't going to get involved. Isn't that how it went? The only actions you're involved in is running away from anything that would dirty your hands."

Face reddening with fury, Greece's most powerful god leaned closer to his son's face. "I could destroy you!"

Hercules folded his arms. "So, do it. At least you'd be doing something. Otherwise, get out of my way and stay out of my way. I'll take care of Morpheus."

"Zeus, you can't let your son..." Morpheus began in a rush of words.

"I've had enough of this," Hercules interrupted, focusing his attention on the fallen god. "No more deals, Morpheus." Bending down until he was eye level with him, the demigod lowered his voice to a furious snarl. "You will leave Iolaus and his family alone or I will destroy you. I may not be able to kill you, but there are other ways to destroy a god. Life as you know it will be over. I will hurt you in so many ways that you won't be able to get rid of the pain. Are we clear on this?"

If Morpheus could have gotten any paler, he would have. The god struggled to a sitting position. "Alright. You win, Hercules. I'll leave your friend and his family alone. Although I'm very attracted to Nebula, it isn't worth this much hassle. I should have known you would stand in my way."

"Yes, you should have. Remember that next time before you even think about hurting my friends or family."

Pushing his bony body to his feet, Morpheus directed his gaze at the blond man. "You're free. You have my word." With a wave of his hand, he disappeared.

Zeus stroked his chin thoughtfully. "And how long do you think that threat's going to work? He's a god."

Hercules looked his father in the eye. "He's a god that knows how serious I am. Morpheus finally realizes that I'm not going to stand idly by while one of my friends gets hurt at his hand." He glanced at Iolaus. "Not when I can prevent it anyway."

Iolaus moved forward, extending his arm. "Thanks, Herk."

The demigod accepted the handshake. "Anytime."

The hunter smiled. Anytime. His best friend had proven that more than once over the years. Anytime he could protect him, he would be there. Anytime he could help him, he would be there. His smile broadened and Hercules returned the grin while Zeus coughed and cleared his throat in the background.

"Well, once again, Zeus, you've managed to get out of a sticky situation without actually doing anything." Hercules approached his father, feeling none of the usual anger. It had been too long and he was tired of the fighting and the fury.

The King of the Gods didn't hide his own anger. "I can't work out every situation for you, Hercules. You're a half-god. You should be able to use some of the wisdom of the gods to solve the problems for yourself."

Hercules' eyebrows lifted in amusement. "You gave me my strength, Zeus, not any wisdom. I don't think you have too much of that yourself."

With a humph of pure fury, Zeus disappeared.

Iolaus winced. "Glad to see that you're not afraid to tick your father off."

Hercules laughed. "No, I'm not afraid, Iolaus."

Iolaus jogged ahead of his friend as they reached the house, anticipation making him burst inside without knocking. "Nebula?" Rounding the corner, he brought himself up short to keep from plowing into Serena. "Hey, where's Nebula and Alcmene?"

Serena looked past the hunter to meet her husband's eyes across the expanse of the room. "She...left this morning. She was acting strange. I tried to stop her, but she said she had to go."

"What do you mean acting strange?" Iolaus was already on his way back toward the door.

"She...well, I can't explain it really. It was almost as if she was talking to you, but then, you weren't here and I couldn't figure out how she was having a conversation with you."

Hercules hadn't moved out of the entrance way and he now caught Iolaus' shoulder as he tried to barrel past him. "Iolaus, this is more than likely Morpheus again."

"I know that. I need to go to her."

"I'm coming with you."

"No. I can handle this."

"I know you can; I'm still coming with you." Hercules was already turning around, pausing long enough to send Serena a longing look which she returned. Eventually, their family would be reunited, but for now, she understood that Hercules had to help his best friend. She wouldn't have expected otherwise. With an encouraging smile, Serena watched them leave once more.

Nebula sat in the rocking chair, Alcmene cradled in her arms even though the toddler squirmed to be released. The chair creaked with every movement; Alcmene began to whine. Nebula was oblivious to any sounds save the tune she hummed softly in an effort to soothe her child. "It's alright, baby. Mommy's here."

"Want Daddy," the little girl cried.

"Daddy's not here," Nebula's voice was sharper than he intended. "Daddy won't be coming back."

"Where's my Daddy?" Alcmene began to sob loudly, her tiny hands fisting in her mother's tunic.

"Hush, now. Mommy's right here. I'm with you."

The door squeaked open, but Nebula didn't notice. Iolaus walked into the room slowly, taking in the scene as his heartbeat returned to normal rhythm. He'd thought the worse on his way over, imagining everything from the deaths of his wife and child to coming home to find her gone. Approaching her with silent footsteps, he knelt down in front of the rocker, placing one hand upon her leg. "Nebula?"

She didn't acknowledge his presence. The humming continued.

Alcmene, having noticed her father, resumed her struggles for freedom. "Daddy! Daddy!" Trying to hold out the arms which her mother held bound, she let loose a scream of pure agony. "I want my daddy!"

"It's okay, baby. Daddy's in a better place. We'll see him again some day."

Iolaus cast a glance at his best friend who gave him a slow nod. This was Morpheus' doing. He'd clouded Nebula's mind, convincing her that her husband was dead. But Iolaus was very much alive. Now, he just had to convince her. "Nebula, look at me." Using one hand, he caught hold of her chin, forcing her to meet his eyes. "Look into my eyes. I'm here."

Relaxing her grip on her daughter, Nebula stared at the vision facing her. "You're dead."

"No, I'm not." Iolaus shook his head emphatically. "I"m alive." Taking one of her hands, he placed it on his chest, over the beat of his heart. "See? I'm here and I'm very much alive."

Nebula drew her hand away hastily, as if the mere touch of his skin burned her palm. "No, you came to me. You said good-bye. You said you had to leave. I said good-bye to you." She didn't notice when Alcmene slipped from her grasp and launched herself into her father's arms.

Standing with the weight of his daughter, Iolaus gave her a tight hug. "I've missed you, Alcmene."

"Me, too, Daddy. Mommy said you weren't coming home, but I knew." Planting slobbery kisses across her father's cheek, Alcmene collapsed into giggles against his chest. "You wouldn't leave me. You said so."

"Yeah, I did, didn't I?" Walking to the doorway where Hercules still stood, he passed his daughter to the demigod. "I want you to go to Uncle Hercules right now. I need to talk to Mommy."

"'Kay." Alcmene held out her arms obediently, beaming at her uncle. "Haven't seen you in a while."

Hercules smiled. "Haven't seen you either."

"Let's go outside." She suggested.

The demigod met his friend's gaze and Iolaus nodded. This was something he would need to do alone. Hercules retreated with his charge while Iolaus returned to his wife's side.

Nebula was still sitting, still rocking, her eyes focused straight ahead, not really seeing anything. "You're not here." She said aloud.

"Yes, I am. It was Morpheus who came to you, Nebula. He wanted to convince you that I was dead because he wants you for himself. He thought I would be dead by now, I guess. Look at me!" He made his voice sound harsh, to gain her full attention. It worked.

Nebula's eyes lifted to his face. "You can't be here. You're in my mind, just like before."

"No, I'm not. I'm very real."

Covering her face with her hands, she shook her head resolutely. "No! You're not here! Go away! Leave me alone! Isn't it enough that I had to say good-bye to you again? Why can't you leave me alone? I feel like I'm dying inside!"

Dropping down to his knees in front of her, Iolaus pulled her hands away from her face, held them both in his. "I want you to look at me, feel me, hear me, Nebula. I'm here and I'm not going anywhere. Morpheus came into my dreams and tried to drive me insane. When that didn't work, he tried to kill me outright, but thanks to Hercules, he didn't win. He wanted you for his wife. That's why he wanted me out of the way, but I'm not out of the way. I'm alive and I've missed you." Releasing one of her hands, he touched her face with the feathery light caress of his fingertips. "You should know by now that you can't get rid of me that easily. If Dahak couldn't keep me dead, what makes you think another god here can?"

Nebula was starting to look convinced, but she was still hesitant when she touched him. Her hand brushed his shoulder, his neck, his face before her fingertips ghosted across his lips. "By the gods, is this true? You really are alive?"

"Yes, that's what I've been trying to tell you. I'm alive." He grinned at her, relief flooding through him like a rampant river released from its bounds.

Tears filled her eyes; her lips trembled and she clasped her hands against her mouth, trying to still the sobs. "You're alive." Her voice was muffled as she repeated the words over and over as if to reassure herself that it was really true.

Iolaus got to his feet, pulling her out of the chair and into his arms. "It's okay. I'm okay." He held her tightly against his chest, but it was no tighter than she held on to him. "Hey," he pulled back from her long enough to see her face, "are you okay?"

Her lips somehow formed a watery smile. "Not yet, but I'm going to be just fine...now that you're home." Her hands framed his face. "I thought I'd lost you again. I can't even explain what it felt like, what I felt inside." She pressed a closed fist against her chest. "There was a hole here and," she broke off as another sob slipped past her lips. "I love you, Iolaus. When I thought you were gone, all the light went out of my life again. I knew I had to keep going for Alcmene, but a part of me wanted to follow you to the other side."

"Nebula, if anything ever does happen to me, I want you to promise me that you won't do that. Our children will need you; this world will need you. You've got too much to offer to even think about cutting your life short."

She could promise him anything as long as she was in his arms. "I promise."

His hands tangled in her hair. "And, by the way, I love you, too." He gave her a slow, decidedly wicked smile and allowed her to step back into his embrace. "I guess that makes us a good team." He murmured.

"Daddy! Daddy!" Alcmene's shouts interrupted the couple and she bounded inside as fast as her little legs would take her. With a curling mass of black hair, vivid blue eyes and an impish smile, she was the perfect combination of her mother and father. Racing forward, just out of Hercules' reach, she wrapped her arms around her father's legs and held on tightly. "I wanted to come see you, but Uncle Hercules said to wait."

"It's okay," Leaning down, Iolaus lifted her into his arms and settled her on one hip. His hand dropped to link his fingers with Nebula's, guiding her toward the door with him. "Thanks, Herk, for ...well...everything."

"Is everyone okay now?" Hercules' eyes searched Nebula's face before winging back to his friend.

Nebula smiled, giving the demigod a grateful look. "We're...much better." Stepping forward, she kissed her husband's best friend on the cheek. "I can't thank you enough."

He covered the hand that lay on his arm with one of his own. "You don't have to thank me. Someone once told me that this is what friends are for." His eyes met Iolaus' as both men recalled the time when Hercules was on the receiving end of unconditional friendship...when Iolaus had stood by his side just as he had done for the hunter. Hercules looked down into Nebula's eyes. "Iolaus is more than just a friend to me, Nebula; he's...my brother. I would do anything for him just as I know he would for me. Don't ever feel the need to thank me for helping him or you."

Nebula's eyes glistened with tears. "You know, I can't even remember now why you used to drive me crazy."

Hercules laughed aloud. "Well, I'm glad. Now, if the two of you no longer need me, I'm going to take myself home before Serena sends out a search party."

"I'll walk you to the road," Iolaus passed Alcmene to Nebula and gave her a quick kiss before stepping out into the fading light. As they moved away from the house, the hunter cleared his throat. "Um...Herk..I know that we don't need to thank one another, but you went beyond friendship this time. You've put yourself in danger for me before, but this time was different. Zeus could have destroyed you for challenging him."

Hercules stopped walking, placed a hand on his friend's shoulder. "Iolaus, losing you again would have destroyed me, too. The way I saw it, I had no choice but to stand up to my father and stop Morpheus."

Iolaus extended his arm. "I'm glad to call you friend."

"Always," Hercules' arm met his. Then, he stepped forward and embraced his friend briefly. "Now, go back to your wife. I can find my way to the road and home."

"Good-night, buddy. I'll see you later."

"Count on it." Hercules headed off across the field that would take him down the road...to home.

The End



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