In a private room, Hector beamed. "Xena, I cleared my evening to celebrate with you. Where are you taking me to dinner?"

Looking at him, Xena felt nothing but gratitude. Without him as her mentor, she would not be where she was today. "Let me cook for you at my place. I can't think of a restaurant worthy of this occasion."

Though she was now Phoenix Warlord and was equal in rank to Hector, her respect for him remained unwavering.

"Sure. I'll try your cooking, then." Noticing her expression