By Fay Russell

Disclaimer: The auther does not own the characters from Hercules: the Legendary Journeys. Those characters belong to MCA/Universal and were used without permission. No copyright infringement intended and no money was made.

The two stood before the dour old man, trying to be respectful. It was difficult with the old man's disinterest in them but they had wanted to do this right. Their love, they felt, was the purest form there was. It was time to take their relationship to a higher plateau. They were going to get married properly and enjoy the rest of their lives together.

"Father," one said, "I wanted your blessings. I thought you'd be pleased."

"What my children does bears little or no consequence to me," the old man said.

"We came here out of respect," the golden-haired one said, almost pleadingly. "We wanted you to be happy for us."

The old man turned his back on them.

"I shouldn't have expected more," the tall man said. "I just hoped that, for once, I might have earned his approval."

The golden-haired bride sighed. "Well, sweetcheeks, it's just the way it's always been. You and me against the world! C'mon! I want to, like, party down! We do have a, like, real WICKED honeymoon to start, you know!" The man smiled at his spouse's never-ending enthusiasm as his new wife grabbed his arm excitedly. "The whole universe is gonna know how happy I am!" They both vanished in a cloud of glittery sparkles.

Truer works were never spoken. As the couple vanished, the earth and sky was pelted with the glittery sparkles that was Aphrodite's trademark. All over the world, people began to change in the blink of an eye. A princess of the most noblest blood ran toward the man she loved, even though he was a lowly carpenter. A loyal brother, who swore he'd never look at his brother's bride despite the fact that he loved her, ran to the beloved, sweeped her off her feet, begging her to marry him. A certain dark-haired god, who watched a mortal incessantly, found himself confronting her, demanding that she was now his, only for her to respond that HE was now HERS and initated their lovemaking, despite the fact of their long-time animosity.

And the golden sparkles continued on....

"So lemme get this straight, Herc," Iolaus asked over his shoulder as they both walked with their individual burdens. "Aphrodite is getting married to Hephaestus." Iolaus was the only one showing signs of fatigue, as usual, but he would never let his companion notice if he could help it.

"Right."

"Aphrodite is Zeus' daughter. Hephaestus is Zeus' son." Iolaus was ticking the points off on his fingers. "So are you but you don't enter into this particular equation. Yet." Iolaus tossed a mischievous grin back at Hercules' resulting grimace. "But they're getting married."

Hercules sighed. The love-lives of the gods were well-known. Brother married sister all the time mainly because, once upon a time, there weren't anyone else around to marry. Old habits died hard, he supposed, especially if they were immortal. "Iolaus-"

"Relax, Herc, I'm only kidding you," Iolaus said, slapping his partner's arm. "I'm happy for them. In fact, if you'll recall, I was the first one to see them together. They make a good couple." Hercules saw his companion's right shoulder give way a bit as the heavy burden tied to Iolaus' back succuubed further to gravity. Grunting, Iolaus shifted the burden back to its' former position.

"Why don't we rest here for a bit?" Hercules suggested thoughtfully. As half-god, his stamina wouldn't give out for days, even months, but Iolaus was mortal.

"Bless you," sighed Iolaus, stopping right where he was and letting his bundle ease to the ground. He rubbed his sore shoulder as Hercules divested himself of his burden, which happened to weigh four times as much as his own. *Not fair,* Iolaus grumbled to himself. "The next time Prophyrios, or ANY one, asks us to cart stuff to his daughter, promise me we ask 'how much stuff' and then rent a wagon!"

"I promise," Hercules said, smiling. "I didn't think it'd be this much when I agreed. Sorry."

"You're sorry," Iolaus good-naturally complained. "My shoulder may never walk again!"

Chuckling, Hercules came over to his friend. Maybe he'd better see if Iolaus was really and truly injured. If he was, Iolaus would never admit it and probably hurt the injured muscle more by ignoring it. "Come here," he told Iolaus. "Turn around - I want to see that shoulder."

Iolaus waved him off, realizing he'd gone too far with his complaining. "I'm all right, Herc."

Hercules had grabbed his friend gently with one hand and forced him to stand in front of him. "If you really did injure it, we're going to have to adjust our bundles. The last thing I want is for you to spend six months with one arm tied down." Hercules probed the strained muscle gently, compressing the muscles slightly under his fingertips.

Iolaus winced a bit but remained silent under the examination. "Well?" he asked.

"I don't see any damage," Hercules mused. "Lie down. On your stomach. And take your vest off."

Giving Hercules a wary eye, Iolaus obeyed and slowly lowered himself to the ground as Hercules knelt beside him. Making Iolaus lie flat, Hercules bent over his friend and began a gentle massage of the injured shoulder.

"MMMmmmmmm," sighed Iolaus, closing his eyes. "I'll give you exactly one year to stop that."

Hercules, as he massaged, felt the strained muscles began to ease. Then, his skin felt it was electrified with his father's lightning bolts. Looking up in confusion as his skin became alive with sensation, he saw the golden glittering shower rain down over everything - including himself.

"Iolaus, we'd bett-" Hercules cut himself off as he looked down at his friend. He was about to suggest that they find shelter immediately in the trees but seeing Iolaus put that thought right out of his mind. He let his jaw fall open as he gazed with wonder at the sight before him.

Golden hair, creamy skin, muscles rippling. Hercules let his hand stay on his friend's bare back as he drank in his friend's beauty. Iolaus was breathtaking. He had a soul of a poet and a different grin for every day of the week. His eyes were the exact color of the Aegean. He was carefree when Herc was serious and practical when Herc delved into the fanciful. *He is everything to me,* Hercules realized. *I love him so m-*

Once again, he interrupted himself. He had to taste and smell that creamy, soft skin under his fingertips. Bending down once more, his lips caressed the warm flesh spread out before him.

Iolaus shivered at the feathery-light contact. "Wh-Herc?!! What-what are you doing??" The slight panicky quaver in his voice startled himself as much as Hercules, who sat back up on his knees, allowing Iolaus to turn over on his back. Iolaus stared at Hercules, incredulous at his friend's actions, speechless. Then, the glittery shower hit him, too, now that Hercules was not blocking its effects with his body.

His body arched at the contact as Hercules enjoyed the sight of that gorgeous bare torso. Iolaus shook his head, dizzy with the heady sensation of his tingling skin. He looked at Hercules and the world stopped turning. At least, for him.

"Herc-" whispered the awed Iolaus. The smaller man then wasted no time as he made Hercules lie down on his back to climb on top of the solid, beautiful body. Their lips met without their conscious control, their hands running over each other's muscles, and their bodies helplessly thrusting against one another.

Iolaus reluctantly drew back for air as he compensated by thrusting his groin against Hercules'. "I love you," he whispered as he knelt to tongue the half-god's nipples. "I love you."

Hercules sighed with contentment, knowing that this moment would never end. They would be together always. "I love you," he said, running his hands through Iolaus' hair. His life was complete.

"I've waited so long for this," Iolaus mumbled. "Whatever you do, don't wake me up!" He was kissing and licking at Hercules' broad pec, enjoying the play of muscle as he kneaded.

"It's not a dream," Hercules assured him, stroking Iolaus' back lovingly. "It's real. Finally." His two large hands pulled down Iolaus' pants, inching them down as far as he could reach with Iolaus on top of him. Iolaus switched his attentions to the other pec as Hercules gratefully grasped onto the inviting globes of flesh, massaging them. Iolaus groaned and threw his head back at the feeling, allowing Hercules to take the advantage to turn his newly-found lover on his back. He gazed down at his beautiful friend - he could not seem to stop looking at him! - as his hands repositioned to stroke Iolaus' shuddering body.

Iolaus grabbed at Hercules' pants but the leverage was all wrong. He ended up with his hands brushing ineffectually at the waistband as Hercules' hands moved lower. Hercules looked down and, in one swift motion, ripped his own pants off as he bent down to love Iolaus. His naked crotch rubbed at Iolaus' legs as one hand kept Iolaus plastered to the ground while the other shoved the pants all the way down to his ankles. His mouth bent and, in one glorious moment, Hercules encompassed Iolaus' beautiful penis with his mouth.

Iolaus choked back a scream as he thrust himself upwards. In the position he was in, he could only touch Herc with one hand and that hand pulled Hercules' head further toward him, urging him on. Herc's hand was stroking his chest comfortingly while his other hand then slipped under Iolaus to hoist the body closer to him. He licked and nibbled at Iolaus with his tongue and lips, causing Iolaus to writhe and shudder in his arms. He wanted to return the favor but he was too caught up in his emotions and feelings that he could barely think coherently. There was only one thing he could do and he did it. "I love you, Herc. Always have and always will."

The encouragement increased the sucking and Iolaus was becoming less successful in stifling his noises. "Herc! I'm going to come!"

With that warning, Hercules disengaged with his mouth, let his hand take its' place as he hoisted himself to look into his lover's eyes. Seeing the love and devotion there, his hand rubbed harder and faster as he captured Iolaus's lips again with his own, his eyes still wide open. Iolaus lurched under him and jerked as the spasm of orgasm caught him, his arms encircling Herc in his joy. Hercules held him tenderly as Iolaus' ecstacy was satiated.

"Oh, gods, that was so wonderful," Iolaus panted, stroking Hercules' chest. "But now it's your turn."

"Yes," Hercules almost snarled, though not with anger. "It's my turn." In one smooth motion, he flipped Iolaus onto his stomach, his hands running over the gorgeous back that had made him crazy in the first place. Only this time, Hercules wasn't going to waste time massaging a shoulder.

Herc's large hands ran over the strong back muscles as Iolaus moaned his approval. Hercules opened the strong legs that he loved to look at but were just obstructions to his current goal. Hercules scooped a hand under Iolaus to get some of the spent seed to use for lubrication and carefully began to insert a large finger inside the golden-hued body writhing before him.

Iolaus uttered a long, whispery sigh of contentment as he attempted to aid his friend by relaxing his ass muscles and thrusting backwards. Hercules carefully inserted two fingers, not being as patient as he wanted to be, but his penis hurt so much! He had to have relief soon. He had to love his friend completely and totally. And he wanted it now.

Kneeling behind Iolaus and lifting up the hips, he slowly impaled his friend with his aching penis. Iolaus groaned with the sharpness of the pain but Hercules could not slow down. He loved this man and he loved this body. He wanted to be one with this man. He went as slowly as he could while still pushing forward into Iolaus steadily.

Iolaus tossed his head from side to side but not to protest what Herc was doing. "Yessss," he hissed. "Herc....yessss!" His head was swimming and he felt split in two but, despite the pain, it was the most wonderful sensation he'd ever felt. The fact that it was his lover - his true love - made everything perfect. "Deeper! AHHHHHH!!!!" Iolaus screamed as Hercules found his prostate, which lit up his entire nervous system with sensation.

Hercules, now buried in to the hilt, caressed the soft skin and grasped his friend's hips to assist in the steady pumping. Drawing out, Herc slammed back in, causing ecstatic yells from Iolaus as the two rocked together, finding a rhythm that was steadily driving them both wild.

Hands stroked skin as they thrusted against each other. Then, with no warning, there was a loud outcry as Hercules jerked and shuddered as he came, blasting his seed into his best friend. He tried not to topple onto Iolaus; even in his lust-filled mind, he knew that his weight would hurt Iolaus. With effort, Hercules drew himself out of Iolaus, which elicted a deep moan at the absence, and collapsed just beside Iolaus in the dirt and grass, his arm still around Iolaus.

The two of them lay there, awash in the afterglow and in the realization that they were no longer alone. They had each other.

The sun rose, announcing the birth of a new day, and, in doing so, banishing the sparkles back to their owner.

Hercules and Iolaus still slept contentedly, arms encircling each other, Iolaus' head resting comfortably on Hercules' chest. The half-god stirred and smiled as he felt the warm flesh underneath his hands. Soft skin, golden hair....He stroked the long hair, not bothering to open his eyes. The owner sighed and snuggled in closer to him.

Then realization rushed in. Hercules and Iolaus opened their eyes, saw their beloved partner and, in two seconds, had sprang away from each other like they were opposite magnets, pushing themselves away. They were on their feet, staring with shocking recognition as to what they'd done and how their lives would never be the same. The words stalled on their lips as they attempted to calm their cascading thoughts. Their memories were intact. Unfortunately, now, so was their wisdom. All the reasons that had kept them separate but together came flowing back into them like a tidal wave.

Awkwardly, they extended a hand to the ground to fish for one piece of garment to cover themselves in a semblence of modesty but, also as one, found themselves hungrily gazing at their partner, wishing to begin their lovemaking all over again. They remembered declaring their undying love for one another. They knew they still felt the emotion and still possessed that undying love. But what they didn't know was what had forced them to admit it and, if something did force them, did that mean that their love wasn't real or meant to be?

Steeling himself, Hercules forced himself to turn away from Iolaus' golden-like image to quickly put on his clothes. Clearing his throat several times, he finally rasped, "Let's talk about this later."

"B-but, Herc-"

Hercules closed his eyes, trying to resist the sound of loving and longing in his partner's tone. "Let's talk *later*."

Iolaus nodded in resignation. "Fine." Without a word, Iolaus turned for his own clothing, bitterly disappointed, dressed quickly, hoisted his bundle, no longer noticing the weight, and continued on the path towards town. He tried not to register that Hercules was right behind him and he tried not to remember what happened the last time Hercules was behind him. His ass muscles could still feel the lingering sense of Hercules' presence and Iolaus wanted it again! He couldn't believe it but he did.

Hercules, for his part, followed silently, trying not to notice those legs and buttocks, remembering how incredible Iolaus had felt around him, caressing and squeezing....He sighed, trying to adjust himself as he walked. If he kept thinking this way, they'd never make it to town.

The dejected pair divested themselves of their burdens at the farm just outside of town to the farmer's daughter as had been requested. Still, by unspoken agreement, both continued walking silently to the nearby town, hoping somehow to find a solution to the dilemma that was drowning both their souls.

Walking side by side, while trying not to look at each other, Hercules and Iolaus surveyed the town in its post-chaotic state. It was obvious that whatever had happened to them happened to the town, too. The people walking by had a flush on their face and walked uncomfortably as if their behavior embarrassed them so much, they couldn't stand it themselves. Half of the businesses were closed except the taverns which was standing room only. Another curious thing was Aphrodite's temple. There were people standing in line, waiting to consult with the priests inside, all wearing that same embarrassed flush that Hercules and Iolaus wore. The line seemed a mile long.

Hercules, deciding for once that he should take advantage of his parentage, opened his mouth to announce that he was going to investigate by cutting in the front of the line when a loud crash caught their attention.

To their left was a small tavern. As they watched, men were being ejected from the tavern through the door and even through the now-broken window. The sounds of a fight was clearly heard.

Hercules unthinkingly touched Iolaus' arm as he turned. "I'll help the tavern. You check out the temple...." He trailed off as he was once more held paralyzed by those incredible blue eyes, still filled with love but now also with sorrow. Another crash from the tavern went ignored as Hercules stood there, trying to regain his control.

Iolaus gently reclaimed his arm from Hercules' touch and nodded. With one last look, he turned away from Hercules to walk to the temple. Hercules watched him go, his heart aching, before another crash brought him to his senses. He turned back toward the tavern and headed toward it at a run.

Hercules approached the tavern with his customary caution and was rewarded as a body was flung out the front door, causing the spectators out front to scatter once more. Once the cursing man got up and ran off, the crowd moved in, fascinated, as another man, obviously the tavern owner wailed, "Who next? Please, somebody can succeed! Please get her out of there!"

"Her?" Hercules questioned.

"A crazy woman," gasped the tavern owner. "She gave me some dinars to leave her alone but I didn't know she wanted to stay in there all day long! She won't leave! Please, you have to help me!"

Suspicions arising in his gut, Hercules nodded. "Of course I'll help. Just stand back, all right? And the rest of you - please leave! There's nothing to see here."

The crowd reluctantly began to disperse as the owner shifted his weight from foot to foot uncomfortably. "Umm..." he stammered, "the others were willing to try for free ale...I don't have much-"

"My help is free of charge," Hercules assured him. "Just stay out of the way. I don't want you to get hurt. Why don't you take a walk or something? Be back in an hour." Hercules nodded his encouragement as the owner shuffled away, wary of leaving his place alone but obviously feeling he had no choice.

Hercules squared his shoulders, entered the tavern and leaped to the side as a jet of flame nearly took off his eyebrows. "Xena!" he called out. "It's me. Relax."

The woman in question put down the torch. "Hercules," she said by way of greeting and returned to her ale.

Hercules appoached her cautiously and finally sat down next to her as she sat staring at the wall, ale in her hands. She didn't move, didn't drink. *It got her, too,* Hercules mused. "Can I help?"

"No one can help," Xena said, her rich voice flat with despair.

*I can sympathize with that,* Hercules thought as they just sat, letting the memories of their recent experience wash over them. There was just too many affected here, Hercules reflected. Somehow, he knew he had to find a way to put things back to right. His mind fought for a neutral question. "Where's Gabrielle?"

"At her Amazon village," came the wooden reply. "Months from here. I don't even have the benefit of a bard's counsel."

Hercules leaned closer to her. "Who was it?" he asked in the barest whisper.

Xena shook her head but Hercules' caring gaze seared through her resistance. "You won't believe it."

"Try me."

"Ares."

Hercules let his mouth drop open. Xena did have a problem. "Whew," he sighed. "You're in love with Ares-?" He had to duck as Xena threw the glass of ale at him and attempted to follow through with a roundhouse punch. He caught her arm, preventing her from rising to kick him from here to Olympus. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry. It was just...a shock."

"Well, what do you think it was for me!!!"

"I'm sorry," he repeated, as she seemed to settle down. "Did he seem to fall in love with you?"

Xena snorted. "What's love to a creature like that?" At Hercules' look, she amended in a quiet voice, "He seemed to." Aching for so long to talk to someone, she found herself telling all. Perhaps Hercules would be the only one to understand. "He showed up in front of me, telling me that I was his. Then-"

"-you were surrounded with a peculiar cloud of golden sparkles..."

Xena nodded. "I found myself telling him that HE was MINE and, well, he was going to leave Gabrielle so I told him to take her to her Amazon village. Then we-"

"Say no more," Hercules said, rubbing his forehead. This was a bigger mess than he realized.

"The next morning, I found myself here. Haven't seen him since. Wait a minute. You knew about-what happened with you?!"

Hercules was hoping she wouldn't ask that question. But she had, and in light of Xena's confession, she deserved as much trust as she had given to Hercules. But he couldn't say it. He couldn't even think it. Xena was looking at him expectantly, her look saying, "you shared my pain - give me yours."

He closed his eyes, not wanting to see her expression. He whispered one word. The name that had been on his mind and the image that was in his heart. "Iolaus." He winced as if bracing himself for a physical blow. Surprisingly, only a soft hand rested on his forearm.

He opened his eyes to see Xena's brilliant blue eyes burning into him. "I'm sorry, Hercules, but that can't compare. Iolaus is a kind, decent, caring man who adores you. Ares is...evil."

"Well, at least you didn't make love to your 'brother'!"

"No, I made love with my FATHER!" At Hercules' shocked look, Xena shrugged. "He won't confirm or deny but there is a slight possibility. Hercules," she shook her head, "I don't know what to do. My entire life is gone. Just like that."

A quiet, tactful "ahem!" sounded in the doorway. Turning to see Iolaus, still looking miserable, Hercules waited expectantly.

"Um...." Iolaus stammered, "well, the golden sparkles were supposedly a 'gift' from Aphrodite. To celebrate her marriage to Hephaestus." Before an enraged Xena could destroy something else, Iolaus hurriedly continued. "The priest seems to think that we could summon her to ask her to undo it. Especially when I told him that Hercules, her own brother, would be doing the summoning."

Xena turned to Hercules, a mute pleading in her eyes. She didn't have to bother. Hercules, after a quick sympathetic squeeze to her shoulder, rose and followed his partner to the temple of Aphrodite.

Hercules strode into the temple of Aphrodite like a man with a purpose. Iolaus was behind him, as always, and Hercules' need and want for his partner had to be quashed in the light of new business. He met the disheveled, harried priest and, without a word, took his arm and hustled him around the corner for a private conference.

"How do I summon her?" Hercules fairly snarled at the priest. His temper was not improving by the situation. He was fairly sure that he and Iolaus could come to grips with this thing, if given the opportunity, but Xena's pain tore into him like a scythe. And he was sure that there were others that simply could not get past this 'gift' either.

Iolaus gently reached around Hercules and disengaged the half-god's grip from the priest as the priest stammered a reply. "Um...well, we were...um...hoping that you would know."

As Hercules closed his eyes in frustrated pain, Iolaus prudently stepped between the priest and Hercules in case his friend was actually moved to hit things. "You said you knew of a possibility..." he prompted.

"Ah, yes," the priest said, clearing his throat. "Well, I don't have to tell you though since you are her brother-"

"Tell us anyway," Iolaus suggested, intercepting a large hand going for the priest's throat, swallowing to himself as he realized exactly what he wanted to do with that hand.

"All right," the priest shuffled with embarrassment. "Well, she is the goddess of love, after all..." The priest trailed off, looking at something in particular. Hercules and Iolaus followed his gaze and realized that they were still holding hands. They broke apart, fastening twin glares on the priest, who continued rapidly. "Uh...yes. Well, um, the one thing that...attracts the goddess of love's attention is...love."

"What do you mean exactly?" Hercules asked.

"And won't it be hard to attract her attention on her honeymoon?" Iolaus interjected.

"Ah, yes, you'd think that, wouldn't you?" the priest asked rhetorically. "But the gods, as you must be aware, can never take a vacation. That's why they get...um...well, cranky once in a while."

"Once in a while," muttered Hercules and Iolaus in harmony.

"She can never put aside her duty," the priest said, "If love calls, she must answer."

"Do you really believe that?" Hercules asked incredulously.

The priest shrugged. "It's always worked before."

Hercules sighed. "What do we do?"

The priest nodded and led them into a room that could very well have been designed by the goddess of love. For all they knew, it had been. "I think she has enough pink in here," Hercules muttered.

"And lace," Iolaus muttered back.

"Who are we to argue?" the priest said, shrugging with a smile.

"Now what?" Hercules asked.

"Summon her," the priest said, gesturing at the two of them. "I'll be out here. Please, if she needs anything...well, she has a habit of making her wants known. Never mind." He backed out of the room, leaving Hercules and Iolaus together to stare at each other helplessly.

"Well," Iolaus said as the door slammed behind the priest, "summon her."

"HOW?"

"You're her brother! You should know how!"

"You're her 'sweetcheeks'!" Hercules retorted, only to flush as he realized a certain forceful feeling of jealousy coarsing through his body as he thought of someone else paying attention to HIS Iolaus. He ran a hand through his hair. *Oh, geez, we have to get her to undo this!* Hercules began to pace. "Okay, how do we summon her with love?" As one, Hercules and Iolaus locked a gaze at each other, their love and wanting nearly tangible to both of them. "No!" Hercules shouted. "No WAY am I going to...going to...We have to come up with another way!"

Iolaus cautiously approached Hercules, after first making sure that Hercules wouldn't throw him on those nauseating pink cushions and do him right there. "It may not take all that, Herc. Maybe it'll take something a bit more subtle but no less in intensity."

"Like?"

"Like...maybe just a kiss?"

"Iolaus," Hercules burst out, "if I kiss you, I don't think I'll be able to stop!" He closed his eyes momentarily to block out Iolaus' welcoming, pleased smile to that statement. "It's all I can do to not-"

"Me too, Herc." Iolaus' soft voice didn't help their problem much. "But if we concentrate and think of the others who's been hurt by this - think of Xena - maybe we can resist it. We have to. After all," he swallowed, "I've been fighting the urge for years now."

"Okay." Hercules gulped. He knew what it was going to be like and he knew it would be Tarturus to resist. But they had to. "Okay, come here, let's just do it."

He had no earthly idea how bad it was going to be. Iolaus bounded toward him, that enthusiastic, boisterous energy that was his lover and his friend. Hercules groaned. *I don't think I'm going to be able to resist!* He fought a shudder as Iolaus raised his face toward Hercules, their arms instinctively touching the other, the soft lips touching, caressing and opening, their breaths mingling....They sighed in contentment as they became one. Even completely clothed, their bodies melted together in perfect union. Their longing finally appeased, they moaned with the satisfaction as their hands caressed and stroked the other, desperate to give form to the overwhelming love they felt-

"Now I know you guys didn't need me for *this*."

Hercules let go of the smaller man so swiftly, Iolaus nearly tumbled to the ground. Only his practiced dexterity enabled him to halt his fall as he glared at the new arrival.

The new arrival was doing a bit of glaring, herself. If she hadn't been a goddess, she would have been disheveled. As it was, her shimmering pink gown was just a fraction less spectacular, her hair a little less tended to. "It's kind of obvious you liked my gift, but couldn't you, like, have *waited* until after the honeymoon to thank me-"

"We're not thanking you, Aphrodite!" Hercules snapped as he strode up to her, thrusting a finger in her face. "We want you to undo it! Take back your gift! NOW!"

The goddess gazed at him in astonishment. "Funny - you didn't seem to be protesting it a moment ago! Why would I undo it?"

"That was just to summon you and you know it!"

"Was it?" The two words were coated in honey and struck to the core of Hercules' being. They all knew it wasn't.

"That's not the point!" Hercules said sharply, trying to get back on track. His feelings for Iolaus had to wait. "You took away free will!"

"I did not!"

"What do you call this then?"

Aphrodite blew air between her lips in exasperation. "I can see this is going to take a while," she grumped, walking off of the podium on which she'd materialized. "I am, like, definitely going to take a look at that vacation clause again. There's just GOT to be a loophole somewhere." Seeing Hercules' face turn more red by the second, she soothed, "Okay, okay, like, chill, all right? Hey, sweetcheeks, hold his hand or something else, willya? I can't think when bro's multi-coloring out on me."

Iolaus blushed slightly at Aphrodite's suggestion. "Did you...know about us? I mean, before."

"Like duh!" Aphrodite shook her head. "Who else would know, my hubby, the god of the forge? I don't think so. It's my job to know."

"The free will?" Hercules prompted, gritting his teeth.

"Oh, yeah, that." She sighed. "Well, here's the facts, baby bro." She leaned into his face and enunciated her words carefully. "All you did and all you said was in your heart and WAS ALL YOU. 'Kay? I had NOTHING to do with what was said or what was done."

Hercules and Iolaus felt the blood drain from their face. That clearly meant that the fervent "I love you"s were real. That the lovemaking was true. Hercules clearly remembered Iolaus' words - *I love you, Herc. Always have and always will.* Iolaus was remembering Hercules' *It's not a dream. It's real. Finally.*

Aphrodite continued. "All my little pet cloud did was...um, how did Athena put it? She had this really screwy theory about wisdom or the mind or something being in three parts. One was the ig or the id or something, one was the superig...well, whatever. The point is that I just kinda suppressed the natural inhibitions that prevents one from their baser emotions, but just the one emotion of love. Hey! Wow - that sounds smart! Athena's rubbing off on me - oh, gag! Anyway, nobody fell in love with somebody that they didn't already love. I just made it happen, that's all. The action, the emotion, the words was all them. See? No violation of free will."

"It is," Hercules told her sincerely. "People have reasons for withholding a relationship, even though they may be in love. Good reasons that should be respected. It's THEIR CHOICE. You have to let them make the decision."

Aphrodite sighed. "You are, like, really a downer! I thought people'd be happy that their love was requited! You are!"

Iolaus raised an eyebrow at Hercules, who avoided his look studiously. "Some people would be," Hercules continued, "but there's lots of people that aren't. Xena, for example...."

Aphrodite chuckled at that. "You know, this is the quietest Ares has been since he was in the womb! You notice that? I really didn't expect it to affect gods but who knew? I think once people pulled their heads out of their collective keisters, they'd realize how good they'd be for each other."

"But Xena doesn't want it," Hercules pressed. "The free will again."

"Oh, yadda, yadda, yadda," Aphrodite minced. "So I re-organize the entire effect for the sake of one mortal."

"What about a country?" Iolaus interjected. "The princess who fell in love with the carpenter was supposed to marry a prince that would have stopped a war. Now, hundreds may die because the two of them didn't get married."

"Ew." The goddess wrinkled her nose. "I didn't think of that."

"I bet there's a lot of other examples that you didn't think of," Hercules snapped.

Aphrodite's form shimmered in gold and solidified again. Sighing, she looked up. "Okay, already! Sheesh!" Turning back to Hercules, she tossed back, "Thanks a whole lot! Now, I have to investigate it. Some honeymoon this is. I just wanted people to be happy." With a pout that only served to make her more beautiful, she vanished.

Twin sighs issued from both men. "She only wanted people to be happy," Hercules muttered under his breath. "I guess her heart's in the right place...."

"Speaking of hearts, Herc, what are we-"

"We'll talk about it later, Iolaus."

Iolaus, in the midst of pouring himself some wine, suddenly threw the metal cup on the ground in his frustration. Hercules started as the clanging echoed throughout the room. "No, Hercules, we'll talk about it NOW." Iolaus' tone was pure steel.

Hercules looked at his friend and lover, feeling his frustration. "All right. We'll talk about it now." He went to the smaller man, who had given up trying to get a cup of wine, and wrapped a supporting arm around him.

Iolaus sighed with comfort, hugging the arm before disengaging to turn to look at his lover. With a laugh that sounded like it bordered on hysteria, he shrugged. "I don't know what to say."

Hercules was at a loss, too. "Well," he said carefully, "now we know that...what we said was real. That...that is the most incredible thing to me."

"Incredible that I love you?" Iolaus asked.

"Incredible that I love YOU." Hercules turned away, shamed.

"What - and I'm not lovable?" Iolaus was beginning to get insulted.

"No, that's not it." Turning, Hercules gripped Iolaus' arms to reassure him. "I mean, yes, you are lovable. I meant that...well, it hasn't been very long since Serena. I feel...disloyal, somehow. I really did love her."

"I know, Herc. That's why I didn't want to go to your wedding," Iolaus confessed.

"Then why did you come after all?" Hercules asked.

"Same reason I do anything. Because you needed me," Iolaus told him, coloring slightly.

Hercules smiled at the sentiment. "I did love her," he mused out loud. "She was beautiful and kind and...she seemed to...she seemed to need me."

Iolaus made a sound somewhere between a grunt and a laugh. "Herc...you don't think *I* need you?!?! Why else do you think I've been with you all these years???"

Hercules gaped. "Iolaus, you're the most capable person I know!"

"I don't feel capable without you, Herc." As Hercules gazed at him, he attempted to clarify. "I mean, I don't feel helpless when you're not there. I can take care of myself. I meant, I just don't feel complete...without you." He colored at the emotionalism and tried to find another cup for the wine. Giving up, he drank straight from the bottle. "I guess you just don't feel the same way."

"Iolaus...." Hercules came forward to take the bottle of wine from his partner. Putting the wine down, he gazed into those blue eyes filled with love and, before he was even aware of it, their lips met once again. The kisses deepened as their hands roamed each other's bodies, undressing each other, feeling the firm muscles under their hands.

The vests were shed quicker before either one was aware of it. Hercules managed to yank Iolaus' pants down first. He grabbed the buttocks of his partner and thrust the smaller man toward himself, making Iolaus groan, clutching and rubbing at Hercules' back as he ground his crotch forward. Iolaus' hand snaked back to grab and squeeze at Hercules' rear as Hercules buried himself in the soft, golden curls while his hands explored the creamy skin.

"Oooohhhh," Hercules moaned, "we...ummmmm...shouldn't...umph...be doing this here...."

"What better place than the Temple of Love?" Iolaus asked, arching his back to thrust up against Hercules.

"Good point...." Hercules pushed Iolaus down onto the pink pillows, yanked his own trousers down and began to hoist Iolaus' legs over his shoulders.

"Herc...." Iolaus groaned as Hercules ran his strong hands over Iolaus' torso, "...oil...."

Hercules looked up to see fragrant oils in delicate bottles on a shelf, presumably for this very purpose. He grabbed one and upturned the whole thing on his straining penis and his fingers. Grabbing his lover's legs and hoisting them over his shoulders once more, he rubbed the oil sporatically before raising Iolaus' hips up and slowly entering. Iolaus groaned, throwing his head back at the sensations, gripping Hercules' arms as he urged his lover on. Hercules thrust into him, sprawling over Iolaus' body, as the two reveled in each other's touches and caresses. It wasn't very long before they announced their impending climaxes, grinding their hips together, moving faster and faster until they came explosively on each other, crying out in their release.

Hercules withdrew and collapsed next to Iolaus on the pillows, one strong arm reclining over Iolaus' chest as the two enjoyed their closeness and love for perhaps the last time.

"Okay, here's the scoop," Aphrodite said, appearing suddenly. The men scrambled for their clothes but she paid no attention to their state of undress. "I talked to Daddy and he's pissed off royal. Actually agrees with you, for a change. Gee, that's scary...."

"Tell me about it," Hercules mumbled, fumbling with his clothes.

"So I go to Mnemosyne and we're going to work out this deal so maybe we don't have to undo it all. I'll visit each mortal tonight in their dreams and ask them if they would rather have the effect gone as if it never was. They say yes, their memories are wiped for the day. They'll know they missed a day but no one will remember what they did that day. If one person of a couple says no and the other says yes, it'll be yes for both of them."

Hercules and Iolaus looked at each other, obviously thinking the same thing. Aphrodite caught the look. "Oh, don't worry, guys. Mnemosyne said she wouldn't touch gods or even half-gods. Hercules and Ares will remember. No choice about it, babe."

"What about me?" Iolaus asked nervously.

Aphrodite beamed at him. "Short stuff, you're cute but you're still just a mortal, lumped in with all the other mortals. I'll see you in your dreams tonight and I would, like, really appreciate it if you have your answer ready to go. This job is gonna take forEVer!"

"What about Xena?" asked Hercules quietly.

"Oh, her." Aphrodite pouted a bit as she thought. "Okay, since she's like such a baby about the whole thing, and since her parentage is still in question, her memories will be wiped, too." Anticipating Hercules' next request, she held up a hand. "And her annoying little friend will be back at her side at that glade as if nothing had happened. But they both will have lost a day."

Hercules nodded thoughtfully. That was probably going to be the best deal they could manage. "What about the lingering effects of that cloud?"

"Sweetcheeks, the effects wore off long ago. How many times do I gotta say it?" Aphrodite said impatiently. "The cloud initiated it - nothing more."

"But, Aphrodite, what is this effect we're...um...feeling now? With Iolaus and I. The effects of the cloud have definitely not worn off."

"Yes, it has, baby bro," Aphrodite said slowly as if talking to a five-year-old. "The effect you are feeling now is true love! You guys are really dense about this stuff, aren't you?" She smiled a bit as Hercules and Iolaus, unable to look at each other, looked at the ground in embarrassment. "I know about something you don't - cool! Well, it only makes sense, after all. Well, I gotta lot of work to do, thanks to you. Just wait - when you get married again, your honey's going to come down with a bad case of flu! See how much loving you get on your honeymoon!"

"Don't threaten, Aphr-what do you mean, 'when I get married'?? Don't you mean 'if'?" Hercules asked, almost afraid of the answer.

Aphrodite unleashed a decidedly devilish beam at Hercules before vanishing.

"I hate it when she does that," Hercules said, trying to restrain the urge to punch the wall. "I just hate it."

Iolaus laid a supporting hand on Hercules' back before he remembered the electricity of feelings every time they touched. Hercules looked at him with such longing that he uncomfortably let his hand drop back to his side.

"So, um...what will your answer to Aphrodite be?" Hercules asked nervously, silently begging for one particular answer.

"Um...well, to tell you the truth, Herc," Iolaus said, turning away, "I just don't know right now."

Hercules tried to hide his disappointment as he led the way out of the temple and back to the forest. He figured it would be better for both of them if they didn't have to undergo such embarrassment in a town with an audience. A quick stop to assure Xena that things would be fixed by sun-up and they were on their way.

Hercules yawned and stretched sleepily the next morning at sunrise, completely forgetting for a few seconds that today was the day when his life would begin - or end. One sight of Iolaus' empty sleeping blanket brought it all back in a wave. Pensive, he looked around for his friend and lover. Everything was as it was the night before...except no Iolaus. He didn't know whether that meant good news or bad.

He decided he wouldn't find out just lying here. He was about to get up to look for Iolaus when he was paralyzed by a vision - a beautiful, spectacular vision that was walking toward him. Hercules tried not to gape as Iolaus made his way through the rocky wall where they'd placed their camp that night. The vision was Iolaus and he was stunning.

Hercules visually caressed the form of his friend, only wishing that he could do so with his hands. Iolaus was almost completely nude except for the leather codpiece he wore tied securely to his hips. His well-muscled form was tanned and rippling with recent exertion. He had been swimming, apparently, since, with every step, droplets ran down his body seductively before dropping onto the ground. His hair was never more golden than it was right now, the new day providing a natural aura behind him, which only served to set off his beautiful body.

The vision grew nearer. Hercules looked up in awe, unable to speak, as he felt his groin tighten at the very sight of his friend. He was vaguely aware that that perfectly-formed mouth was moving and wished he could taste it. The blue eyes clouded in confusion as the demigod watched and the mouth moved again. Finally, Hercules was able to register that Iolaus was talking to him.

"Whaaa...?" Hercules managed.

"...you...fast...."

"What?" Hercules was still mesmerized, both by Iolaus' beauty and his aching heart. It was obvious by now. Iolaus didn't remember. He was alone again, only this time, it would be worse. He would be tortured by this vision every morning and would be unable to share his joy with his best friend - and his love.

"Do you want breakfast?" Iolaus asked again.

Hercules regretfully managed to avert his eyes long enough to register the fish in Iolaus' hand. He saw Iolaus shake his head in puzzlement as he prepared the fish for cooking. "S..sorry, Iolaus," Hercules mumbled, getting to his feet. "I had a crazy dream. I guess I'm not awake yet."

"So did I," Iolaus told him with a smile playing about his lips, placing the fish on the spit and starting the fire.

Hercules' stomach rumbled, reminding him of another necessary basic need, even though Hercules preferred the other need stirring in his groin. That need could not be fulfilled so he may as well settle for the other. Looking blearily at the fish, he felt his stomach lurch again. "Um, Iolaus, I don't think that that fish will be enough."

"Well, I was hoping that you would bring dessert."

*Huh???* Hercules' befuddled mind tried to figure out what Iolaus meant. "Where would I....ohhhhhh...." Feeling velvety-smooth caresses traveling up his leg, Hercules shuddered as he was forced to his knees. Reveling in the sensations, he placed a loving hand on his partner's shoulder, holding on for dear life. "Youuuu...uhhhh...do remem...mmmmm!...ber...."

Iolaus' mischievous grin was his answer. "Of course I remember."

Hercules gasped as a practiced hand closed about his straining penis. "I thought....But why? It'll only make things harder...."

"In more ways than one," Iolaus agreed, his eyes sparkling.

"Why?" Hercules' hands were now caressing Iolaus' bare back as he waited for the answer.

"You needed me."

The magical touch vanished and Hercules groaned with disappointment. It didn't last long as Iolaus tenderly pressed his lips to his lover's. Hercules sighed in relief as his tongue darted inside that tantalizing mouth. Iolaus rose to his feet, forcing Hercules to do likewise if he didn't want to break the kiss. Finally, when they were both standing, Iolaus gently pulled back.

Left breathless, Hercules asked, "Why? The real reason, this time."

Iolaus smiled again. "Because I wanted to. Come on."

Iolaus led the way past the rocky barrier where he was moments before. Hercules gaped again at the sight before him. They'd camped here last night when they finally could not see the terrain around them. Once past the rocks, Hercules saw the sea, gently lapping against the alcove of sand and rocks. "It's beautiful," Hercules commented quietly. "It suits you."

Iolaus smiled with pleasure at the compliment as he continued to pick his way through the rocks to the sandy beach. Once they were both standing on the warm, welcoming sand, Hercules reached for his lover only to be thwarted.

"No, Herc," Iolaus said, obviously still in a teasing mood. "You've had me twice now. It's my turn." Kissing him again, he then turned Hercules around, draping his lover over a large rock that was smoothed by the high tide.

Hercules groaned as warm hands stroked the broad back. Iolaus thrust his penis against his lover's rear, not entering, just rubbing himself between his crack, as he bent to kiss and nibble at his lover's back. Hercules, already at the peak, tried to grind himself against the rock as Iolaus massaged and tickled his back, making him jump and moan with desire. He reached back only for his hands to be intercepted and pressed against the sides of the large rock. Iolaus had to trust him after a moment, though, since he needed hands to prepare them.

Reaching at the base of the rock, he grabbed the bottle of oil he'd 'borrowed' from Aphrodite's temple. *Well, this IS her fault so she shouldn't mind two bottles of oil,* he rationalized. This one was handled a bit more carefully as Iolaus dribbled measured amounts on Hercules' back and buttocks and on his penis and hands. He began the massaging with one hand as he worked one finger inside his lover's body, making him moan and grip the rock.

"Ohhhh...yes....Iolaus. You are...soooo beautiful," Hercules moaned. "When you came...uhhhmmmm...from around those rocks, I thought you were a god."

"Only one of us fits that description, Herc," Iolaus told him, still pleased by the description as he reached underneath to Hercules' penis to rub the tip with two fingers - and let go abruptly when Hercules let out a muffled laugh. "I'm not sure if that was complimentary or not," Iolaus complained.

"No, it's not that. I love that. Please..." Hercules opened his legs wider. Iolaus, knowing he couldn't say no to this man, continued grudgingly.

"Tell me what you were thinking," Iolaus insisted, a fingertip plunging in and out of Hercules' backside.

"You don't...ummm...want to know...." With dismay, Hercules felt the tender, loving hands withdraw. "All right, all right! I'll tell you. But just remember, I warned you....ummmm...." He moaned as the hands began their magic once more, now two fingers opening Hercules' backside. "I was thinking that...well, you looked *SO* beautiful this morning and...umm...a funny thought just occurred to me that...uhhhh....If you're not a god, I thought maybe you might just be the son of a god...like maybe...from the goddess of beauty...."

Iolaus choked, very nearly losing the mood with that thought. "Herc - that's not even funny!"

"I thought it'd make perfect sense. She's the goddess of love and beauty. Cupid got the love duties and you...would have the beauty...."

"Herc...you are SICK!" declared Iolaus. "It's a good thing I love you." He couldn't wait any longer. With the help of the oil, though, Iolaus slid right in, nestled against Hercules' form. "I can tell..." Iolaus said, gritting his teeth to keep his thoughts coherent, "...that I'm just going to have to make sure you don't do any more thinking...."

Hercules groaned and cried out as Iolaus hit his prostate and then reached under once more to massage his penis. "That will do it...." he panted, pressing himself backward to meet his lover.

Neither man could have noticed the golden-haired beauty smiling down at them from above in satisfaction.

THE END