"Sisterhood"

Written by ?

July 28^th, 2001

"Xena Warrior Princess" is Copywrite of Universal and Renaissance Pictures.

Fade In:

Int. Amazon hut-Night
Gabrielle sits by candlelight as she writes in one of her scrolls. The interior of the hut is furbished with skins and furs. Above a mantel sits an urn and above it hangs Xena’s Chackram. We see a montage of the room as we hear a voice over of the thoughts Gabrielle is putting to paper:

Gabrielle V.O.(Voice Over)

All though it’s been a year since I’ve returned from the Land of the Rising Sun and settled back in Greece, I still feel a part of me is missing. Xena is still with me in spirit but it doesn’t make having her gone any easier. I have come to hate sunset and love the sunrise for each sunset I must say goodbye and every sunrise I am able to see my friend once again. This is Xena’s curse. My curse.

Journeying home we found Eve in the land of Chin. She wasn’t hard to find, still spreading her message of peace with even more determination than the last time I saw her. The reunion was bitter suite when I discovered that Eve could not see Xena like I. Having to tell her the news of her mother’s fate was as hard for me to give as was it for her to take. I journeyed with Eve a while until her sorrow turned to happiness as she realized that Xena’s sacrifice had given her mother a redemption that nothing else could. She ultimately bid me farewell to continue spreading her message.

Together, Xena and I continued back to Greece, back home. I visited my sister Lila and her daughter Sarah, whom recently took a husband. It was good to see my family happy and well again, but I knew that I wouldn’t be truly at home there.

So I headed for Amazon country. The Amazons took me in with open arms and I have been with them ever since. Although I have told them the sad news, I have not told them that I can still see and speak with Xena, I fear they may think I’m mad and the tribe has no time to be worrying about the mental stability of one amazon when we are faced with a war against the warlord Dafron, a man determined to bring the whole valley to its knees.

Three villages have already fallen to his raids and now he focuses on Amazon lands. For weeks we have been at a stalemate with each side waiting to see who’ll make the first move. I’m afraid with our food supply cut off and water running low, we may be the ones to break the stand off. But with no element of surprise I fear that even with all are best warriors at the front we may not win the day.

Xena and I have been working in secret to find some sor tof solution, but nothing comes. I wish my friend were here. So I could tell her how much we need her here right now. How much I need her.

Gabrielle

Gods Xena I wish you were here.

Gabrielle’s privacy is interrupted when an Amazon Lt. Enters with another younger Amazon. They both salute Gabrielle.

Amazon Lieutenant

Gabrielle, Varia has asked for you at the front.

Gabrielle

What for?

Amazon Lieutenant
She said it was urgent.

Gabrielle folds her scroll and pen and leaves them on her bed and quickly follows the Lieutenant.

Ext. Woods-Night

Through thick forest they make their way. The Lieutenant Gives an Amazon call that tells the sentries that they are friends and they make their way to the front lines.

Ext. Amazon Front line-Night

Amazons all man the barricades and trenches. The Amazon Lieutenant leads Gabrielle to where Varia and small group of Amazons are gathered around a young peasant girl who looks very similar to a young Xena-black hair, blue eyes. The circle opens as Gabrielle approaches. She is taken back at the girl’s resemblance.

Amazon Lieutenant

We found her inside the perimeter.

Kyra

We think she’s a spy. Isn’t that right cutie (She squishes the frightened girl’s dirty face and lets go)

Gabrielle shoots a sharp look at the Amazon and looks at Varia as she kneels down beside the frightened girl.

Gabrielle

She looks more like a runaway to me.

The Kyra scoffs at this. Gabrielle just looks into the frightened girl’s face.

Gabrielle

What is your name?

Girl

(The girl only manages a whimper)

Cedra.

Kyra

What was that? She asked you your name bitc-

The Amazon makes like she’s about to kick the girl

Varia

Kyra! That’s enough. Return to your post.

Kyra starts to turn and then turns round and shoots an angry look at Varia and points at the entrenched enemy across the field.

Kyra

I lost two of my own blood sisters to that tyrant! I’m not going to be knifed in the back by one of his little girls!

Cedra begins to cry and Gabrielle holds the trembling and crying girl.

Varia grabs Kyra’s arm.

Varia

That’s enough. Talk like that won’t bring your sisters back.

Kyra looks as if to say some more remarks but holds her tongue and rips away from Varia’s grip returning to her post along the barricades.

Varia turns back to the group. Gabrielle looks sadly up at Varia as she comforts the girl.

Gabrielle

This girl is no spy. Look at her.

Gabrielle and the girl rise to their feet.

Varia

I don’t think she is either Gabrielle. But I can’t take a chance on this one. We’ll keep her under watch tonight and then I’ll have my Lt. take her home to her family. I’ll let you handle it from here.

Gabrielle nods and Varia and her other Lieutenant walk away to other matters as the Lieutenant leads Gabrielle and Cedra to the small hut where Cedra will be kept under guard over the night

Ext. Small Hut- Night

The hut is a safe distance from the front lines and is near where all the horses are corralled.

Cedra

I, I want to be an Amazon. Like you. I can read and write, I can even read the stars…

Gabrielle smiles warmly at the girl

Gabrielle

That’s wonderful. But we’re still going to take you home to your family. Don’t you miss them? I’m sure they miss you.

Cedra

But I don’t have a…

Cedra is cut off as the Lieutenant moves her into the hut and closes the door

Int. Small Hut- Night

Very simple hut with a skin rug, fur blanket and some food and water and a chair and table. Cedra sighs and flops into one of the chairs facing the door.

Cedra

I don’t have a family.

Ext. Small Hut-Night

The Amazon Lieutenant gives Gabrielle a nod and Gab walks off leaving the Lt. Guard the hut. Gab is met again by Varia who speaks to Gabrielle alone this time while her attendant gets her horse. They speak in low voices so the other Amazons don’t hear the fear in their voices.

Gabrielle

What’s the count?

Varia

Ten more killed and 5 wounded today. We can’t go on like this Gabrielle. We have to act and act now. Winter is approaching and if their arrows don’t kill us, our lack of food and the cold will.

Gabrielle

I know Varia. But without the element of surprise we’ll have to sacrifice a great deal of our warriors to do so.

Varia

We may well have to. I see no other alternative.

Gabrielle

We need to think of another way.

Varia

We’re running out of time Gabrielle. Tomorrow you and I need to figure out a battle plan. At least if we go down, we’ll go down fighting, not starving.

Before Gabrielle can get in another word Varia’s Lieutenant hands her the reins to her horse and Varia climbs on.

Varia

See you in the morning Gabrielle.

Varia and her Lieutenant ride off. Gabrielle is distressed and walks off to begin her night watch. Behind Gabrielle an eye peaks out a hole in the side of the hut. It’s Cedra’s eye.

Ext. Amazon Front line-Morning

The night gives way to the day and Gabrielle is sitting alone, awake while other amazons sleep around her. Turning her head we see a familiar face. Xena is sitting beside her.

Xena

Long night huh?

Gabrielle(yawning)

Every night is long, Xena. ( a beat..)

We lost 10 more before my watch.

Xena knows she’s not just talking about the Amazons. Xena puts a comforting hand on Gabrielle’s shoulder.

Xena

I’m sorry Gabrielle.

Gabrielle

I don’t know if we can win this one Xena. Winter’s just about here and we have no food and Varia wants to plan an assault.

Xena

I know it’s hard Gabrielle but you must be strong. Reason with Varia. The only way you’re going to save this tribe is by catching these scum-bags with their pants down.

Gabrielle

I dunno Xena we’re running out of time.

Varia returns to the front with Cyanne who is in charge of the Amazon archers.

Varia

Anything to report Gabrielle?

Gabrielle

No.

Gabrielle yawns again. Xena just sits quietly next to Gabrielle

Varia

Long night huh?

Ext. Small Hut-Day

Cedra’s been busy and has made her way out of the hut without alerting the sleeping guard. She spies a saddled horse in the corral and rides off towards the front. The Surprised guard can only yell and run after her

Ext. Front lines-Day

Varia, Gabrielle and Cyan are talking and looking at a map. Xena watches over the meeting behind Gabrielle

Varia

What if we try and come at them from the north? We could then flank them and have our reserves attack from the west

In unison Gabrielle and Xena speak

Gabrielle/Xena

But that won’t give us any cover from their archers and would divide our forces unnecessarily.

Gabrielle

What we really need is that surprise.

Before Varia can reply, the noise of the yelling Amazon Lieutenant fills the air along with the sound of a lot of surprised and upset amazons. The three women and Xena duck as Cedra atop her horse hurdles the trench and gallops across the battlefield. The four women are speechless as they watch in horror as the girl heads for the deadly open field. The rider is met by a wave of arrows. None touch her.

Cyan

What the?!

Varia

(Turning to Gabrielle)

Is that enough of a surprise!

Gabrielle just turns to Xena and back to the field in shock.

Ext. Enemy front lines-Day

The enemy soldiers are unsightly ogres of men, clad in armor and leather and are disgusting with little hygiene and with evil in their eyes. They are just as shocked as the amazons. Several archers see Cedra as target practice. Others join in the sport.

Ext. Battlefield-Day

The wide open grass field has fallen soldiers from both sides left only because trekking out into the field would mean certain death. Cedra sits on the side looking over at both sides. The amazons give out their war cries and the enemy dares her to ride across the field again.

Cedra gives them what they want. She gallops off at full speed. Arrows take flight.

Ext. Enemy front lines-Day

The men ready themselves.

Archer # 1

This one’s gonna be mine.

Archer #2

In your dreams. You couldn’t hit a barn door! It’s my arrow that’s gonna ground this Amazon

Archer #3

Shut your yaps and just shoot

Archer #3 lets an arrow fly

Archer #1

Ha. You missed.

Archer #3

Only because you wouldn’t shut up.

(Archer #3 draws again.)

Ext. Amazon front lines-Day

Many of the Amazons cheer at the girl’s defiance while others watch in silence in surprise of the sudden act.

Varia

It’s a suicide.

Gabrielle is silent calculating the situation amidst all the commotion around her. Xena is doing the same.

Xena

Gabrielle, I have an idea.

Still staring at the battlefield, Gabrielle suddenly catches Varia’s arm.

Gabrielle

Are your troops ready?

Varia

What?

Gabrielle

Are your troops ready?

Varia

Yes of course. But…

Gabrielle

(Turns to Cyan.)

Cyan. Are your archers at the ready?

Cyane

They await your orders Gabrielle.

Gabrielle

Good. Be ready to attack on my signal.

Varia

(Giving Gabrielle a puzzled look.)

What!? Ready to attack? We have no plan! I thought you wanted to avoid a frontal assault?

Gabrielle

Trust me Varia. Something tells me this is what we’ve been waiting for. Be ready when I give the signal.

Ext. Battlefield-Day

Cedra has made it across one more time and is out of breath due to all the excitement. The armies urge her on and she doubts she can make another pass. She waits and hesitates.

Ext. Enemy front line-Day

The men urge her on yelling. Darfon himself steps out of a dark gray and black tent to find out what the commotion is about. He’s a big man in stature and muscle. He has a stubbly beard and his armor and big clumpy boots make him look even more intimidating. Walks up to one of his Lieutenants who is also yelling with the men. He comes to attention as the Warlord approaches.

Warlord Darfon

Bentious

Target practice sir.

The Darfon smiles and takes the Lieutenant’s bow and arrows.

Warlord Darfon

Well, why didn’t anyone wake me? I wouldn’t want miss all this excitement.

Darfon chuckles and gets behind the other yelling and aiming archers.

Ext. Amazon front lines-Day

All the other Amazons around Gabrielle are yelling out war cries. From her point of view she can see that the Warlord himself is out on the front. She watches him and then watches Cedra.

Xena

C’mon,…C’mon.

Ext. Battlefield-Day

Cedra looks around one more time. We see close ups of the Warlord Darfon and his men daring her back and Gabrielle and the amazons cheering. She looks up at the blue sky.

Cedra

Gods forgive me

And she gallops back into the gauntlet of arrows we watch her ride across the enemy lines from the point of the view of the enemy.

Ext. Enemy front lines

Archer #1

Damn. Missed again. She must have the gods with her.

Warlord Darfon

It’ll take more than gods to save her.

(He releases his arrow)

Ext. Battlefield

Camera follows Cedra across the field. But this time she is hit in the shoulder

Ext. Enemy front lines

Archer #3

Ha Ha! I got er!! You see that! I got er!!

None of the others seem to care-all too caught up in their shooting spree.

Ext. Battlefield

Cedra continues riding and gets hit again in the leg and twice in the side.

Ext. Enemy front lines

Archer #1

See that! Right in the leg. Ha!

Archer #2

Oh yeah? Watch me put this right through her left eye.

Archer #2 carefully aims at his target off camera. Just as he’s about to release he is struck through the eye with an arrow. The distracted army is taken by surprise by a volley of Amazon arrows followed by a huge wave of Amazon troops led by Gabrielle and Varia.

Having wasted their arrows on Cedra they have no way to strike at them from afar. A huge battle breaks out. The surprised enemy is disoriented and unorganized making them easy prey for the amazons. Within a couple of minutes they are over run.

Only the Warlord and some of his men are able to flee on their horses. When the day is won the Amazons let out a grand war cry. As Gabrielle cleans her sais Varia walks up to her.

Varia

Xena would be proud of you. You’re a hero.

Gabrielle

No Varia, she would be proud of us. And I’m not the hero here.

(Gabrielle turns to Cyan who has arrived with horses.)

Gabrielle (Cont’d)

I’m leaving you to take care of things here until Cyan and I return.

Varia

Where are you going?

Gabrielle mounts her horse.

Gabrielle

I’m going to find our hero.

With that Gabrielle and Cyan head out to the field to find Cedra and Varia returns to help organize the troops.

Galloping across the field where many fallen soldiers-mostly enemy ones- lay dead. Gabrielle holds her hand up to Cyan and listens. Only she can hear Xena calling out to her.

Xena

Gabrielle! Over here!

Gabrielle

This way.

The duo gallop off towards a wooded area

Ext. Edge of woods-Sun Set

Where the field and the woods meet is tall grass and large old trees. Gabrielle and Cyan find Cedra fallen off her horse with one foot still stuck in her stirrup. She’s barely conscious. Xena is at the girl’s side.

The horse neighs softly as Gabrielle and Cyan approach. Cyan calms the horse and ties it to the other horses. Gabrielle gently releases Cedra’s foot from the stirrup and lays her gently against the tree to survey her wounds. She’s been hit three times. Once in her the shoulder, side and leg.

Xena examines the injured girl.

Xena

Who is she?

Gabrielle

She was found last night by some of our scouts. I think she must have run away from home.

Xena

She’s in bad shape. You won’t be able to move her until these wounds are tended to.

Xena’s eyes focus on the setting sun behind Gabrielle. They both look at the sun and look back to one another.

Cyanne is waiting for instructions from Gabrielle.

Xena

Gabrielle…

Gabrielle

I know. Go.

Cyan is puzzled

Cyan

Gabrielle?

Gabrielle is startled. She has forgotten Cyan was standing behind her.

Gabrielle

No, no. It’s just that we can’t move her, not yet. I need my medical bag. It’s in one of my saddlebags.

Cyan

Right away.

Gabrielle looks back to Xena

Gabrielle

Go now. I’ll be fine. You know you must.

Xena gives Gabrielle a pained smile and she disappears into the woods. Gabrielle exhales on the verge of tears when Cyan returns with the medical bag. Gabrielle takes out a cloth and looks back at Cedra.

Cedra awakens as Gabrielle starts to wipe the mud and blood from Cedra’s face.

Cedra (speaking very weakly)

Am I dead?

Gabrielle

Far from it. And when you’re up and well again we’ll get you home.

Cedra

You can’t send me home

Gabrielle

Why ever not?

Cedra

Darfon burnt my village to the ground along with my family.

I was the only one to escape. It was after I fled that

the Amazon scouts found me.

(Cedra pauses and takes in a painful breath.)

Cedra (Cont’d)

So I can’t go home, I have no family to go home to.

Cyanne and Gabrielle exchange glances

Gabrielle

You do now.

Together they tend to Cedra’s wounds.

The camera pans up to the sky and:

Fade Out.

END OF ACT ONE

ACT TWO

Cut To:

Ext. Amazon Village-Day

It’s a new day. The sun is out and a celebration is taking place at the Amazon village. There is a grand bonfire and the whole tribe is celebrating. A troupe of dancers encircles the fire, drummers drum and Varia, Gabrielle, the Shamaness (Lariam) and the other high ranking Amazons enter the scene dressed in regal Amazon garb. The celebration pauses as their leaders enter. All bow to the queen, Varia, who calls all the women together. Xena joins the group standing behind Gabrielle; the other amazons have no knowledge that Xena is there.

Varia

Today we amazons celebrate the great victory over the Warlord. We pay tribute to those who bravely gave their lives in battle and to those who defied death and brought honor to our tribe and our ancestors.

Crowd gives out a cheer.

Varia calls up several warriors and Lariam presents them with sacred medallions.

Varia

The valor of these warriors is an example to all Amazons.

We salute them.

Another cheer goes out from the crowd.

Varia

But there is one other we must salute, for without her we would not be celebrating today. This woman’s selflessness and bravery turned the tide for us and she isn’t even an Amazon. I intend to remedy that.

Gabrielle

Bring her forward

Two amazons bring forward Cedra who is looking much recovered from her injuries save a visible bandage on her leg.

She alone walks up to the podium where Varia, Gabrielle and the Shamaness, Lariam wait.

Varia

Cedra, You have demonstrated bravery that I’ve only seen in the truest of Amazon hearts. And on this day I invite you to join our sisterhood.

A wide smile stretches across Cedra’s face as she looks at Varia and then to Gabrielle who is also smiling.

Cedra looks back to Varia and nods.

Varia invites her up another step where Cedra kneels. Gabrielle and the Shamaness bestow ritual markings, jewelry etc. upon the girl who kneels before them.

Lariam

Rise my sister.

The crowd lets out a cheer as Cedra rises. The celebration continues. Xena puts a hand on Gabrielle’s shoulder in encouragement. Gab looks behind with a smile and back to Cedra.

Fade Out:

Cut to:

Ext. Amazon Village-Night

The celebration lasts well into the evening. Cedra talks with Gabrielle beside the fire.

Cedra

So you weren’t born in the Amazon tribe? But I don't understand, you're a princess.

Gabrielle

I was much like you when I was young. Looking for adventure, wanting to see the world. I was traveling with a friend many years ago when we ended up in Amazon territory. Archers ambushed us and I tried to shield one of the amazons from the arrows. Her dying wish

was for me to take her right of caste.

I had no idea how to be an amazon little less an amazon princess but the amazons accepted me and taught me their ways.

Cedra

And what about your friend?

Kyra, the tough Amazon interrupts Cedra and Gabrielle.

Kyra

I want to apologize-

Cedra

You were only doing your duty. I’m sure if our roles were switched I probably would’ve done the same.

Kyra

But I had no right to blame you for my sister’s deaths.

Cedra

I know how hard it can be to loose a family member. It hurts more than anything in the world.

(A beat…)

Cedra's words it home with Kyra and with Gabrielle.

Cedra raises her wooden cup in a toast.

Cedra (Cont’d)

To our friends and family.

The trio raise their cups and in unison toast

Cedra, Gabrielle and Kyra

To friends and family!

Kyra smiles patting Cedra heartily on the back

Kyra

You’re all right kid. You’re all right.

One of Kyra’s friends grabs her back to the festivities and Kyra pulls Cedra with her. Gabrielle laughs and smiles.

The Shamaness, Lariam, sits down next to Gabrielle.

Lariam

She has a good soul. With the right guidance she will go far in life.

Gabrielle looks over at the Shamaness who is looking right at her.

Gabrielle

Me? You want me to train her?

Shamaness

Varia has asked me to speak with you about the matter. She sees no one else better suited for the job.

Gabrielle

I don’t know the first thing about training a warrior Lariam. All I have to pass on are the experiences that I shared with Xena.

Lariam

They are important experiences that should be passed on Gabrielle. You learned much from them and the amazons need more women like you.

Like Xena.

Gabrielle

I also remember Xena telling me the disasters that resulted when she took it upon herself to train others. She never forgave herself and it killed her.

Lariam

Xena would not want you to live through her guilt Gabrielle. And not all her attempts were failures.

Gabrielle

Xena and I are different.

Lariam

Really? I see no difference.

Gabrielle

I just don’t want to end up making a mistake I’ll regret.

Lariam

But with no guidance Gabrielle Cedra could stand a good chance of following down the same bloody road Xena endured. And you know full well it was a path that Xena always regretted following.

Gabrielle sits quietly for a moment letting the Shamaness’s words sink in. She looks from the Shamaness to the dancing crowd. We see flashbacks from moments with Gabrielle and Xena. Moments when Gabrielle learned her greatest lessons from Xena and also her hardest ones.

She knows the Lariam is right.

Gabrielle sighs.

Gabrielle

All right. I’ll do it.

The Shamanes nods and takes her leave. Gabrielle looks into the fire.

Fade Out:

Cut to:

Int. Amazon Hut-Day

It’s a new ordinary day at the Amazon village and it’s the first day of Cedra’s training. Cedra is very excited to start.

Cedra

So what do I start with? The bow? The spear?

Gabrielle takes the spear out of the girl’s hand

Gabrielle

First I’m going to teach you to use this,

(Gabrielle taps Cedra on the head and sternly continues)

Gabrielle (Cont’d)

Then I’ll teach you to use this.

Gabrielle puts the spear on the table with a thud

Cedra gives an understanding nod.

Gabrielle

Ok then. Let’s get started.

We see a montage of Gabrielle teaching Cedra. They begin with reading, writing, tracking, navigation and healing.

Cedra is then given her first weapon, a fighting staff. It’s a school of hard knocks for Cedra but she stands her ground. We see her learning other skills, tree climbing, archery, hand to hand combat. The montage ends with duo walking back to camp at sundown.

Cut to:

Ext. Oceanside cliffs-Day

Gabrielle sits atop a rock on the cliffs that are on the outskirts of the Amazon territory. Xena walks up from behind and sits on the grass beside her. Gabrielle just looks out to the ocean.

Xena

She's a fast learner.

Gabrielle

Yeah I know. I think she'll eventual surpass my skill.

Xena can sense the worry in Gabrielle.

Xena

What is it Gabrielle?

Gabrielle

Do you think I’m doing the right thing? I mean, training Cedra.

Xena

I can think of no one better. You shouldn’t doubt yourself

so quickly Gabrielle.

Gabrielle

I know, but am I the right person to be teaching her

how to be a warrior?

Xena

Yes.

(A beat)

You were the one to show me that there is more to just being a warrior than battle. You showed me that there’s fighting for what you believe in, fighting for love. These are things no one else can show her.

Only you can.

Gabrielle

It's just that I'm afraid that the death of her family could turn her down a dark and violent path.

Xena

Like me?

The duo look at one another, Gabrielle knows she's hurt Xena with her words.

Xena (Cont’d)

No matter how much you want to Gabrielle, you have to let Cedra choose her own path for herself. Much like I did with you.

Gabrielle
You must’ve had the patience of a saint.

Xena

You have no idea.

Gabrielle gives a sarcastic grin and hits Xena’s shoulder. The duo smile and laugh.

Cut to:

Ext. Forest-Day

Gabrielle and Cedra duel with staffs in the woods. Gab is teaching her new techniques.

Gabrielle

Watch your right leg. Be careful not to leave it unguarded.

Now try again.

The duo strike at one another again. With great skill, Cedra gets around Gabrielle’s attack hitting the back of her right knee sending Gabrielle to the floor. Cedra gives her a hand up.

Gabrielle(laughing a bit)

See, that's what can happen if you don't guard your legs.

Ok, let's try something new. Attack.

They spar again. This time Gabrielle uses this opportunity to introduce a new move that sends Cedra to the floor.

But the floor gives way. The duo fall into a hole that leads to a dark cavern below. Gabrielle’s staff stops them from falling into the cavern, but the staff bends under the weight of Gabrielle griping it tightly and Cedra hanging onto Gab’s leg.

Gabrielle

It’s ok Cedra! I’m going get us out of here. Just hold on-

Suddenly Gabrielle looses her grip and they plummet to the floor.

Int. Underground Cavern-Day

The cavern is large and very dark. The only light comes from the

Large hole a the top and seeps in at some odd spots. There are a lot of vines growing on the walls.

Gabrielle is knocked out and Cedra is merely stunned. Rising, limping around she locates Gabrielle.

Cedra

Gabrielle. Gabrielle?

She shakes her friend. No response. She checks her vitals to find that she’s only knocked out. Cedra wanders to find an exit.

Int. Underground Chamber-Day

Finds a light different than the others seeping in. She finds her way to the source. An abandoned tomb and there are skulls and other bits. On the wall is a painted symbol, it is the symbol of Alti. The girl can’t quite find the light source as she gets closer to the wall painting and debris.

Int. Underground Cavern

Gabrielle is still out. Xena appears and kneels beside her friend.

Xena

Gabrielle! Gabrielle?

Her coaxing awakens Gabrielle who has a bang to the head and discovers her ankle may be twisted.

Gabrielle

Xena!

Xena

Can you stand?

(She helps Gabrielle stand.)

Xena (Cont’d)

We need to get out of here. Something doesn’t feel right. I can sense something else, another presence here. And it isn’t friendly.

Gabrielle

Where’s Cedra?

Int. Cavern Chamber

Cedra is still looking around. We follow from behind her.

Alti (in a ghostly voice)

Fearless Amazon

Cedra

Who’s there? Gabrielle? Is that you?

Alti

I know what you fear

Cedra

All right show yourself!

Cedra is suddenly gripped from behind by an unseen power that chokes her. The camera pans around to show us Cedra’s terrified face and we see Alti herself choking her from behind.

Alti

Here I am little one.

She smiles evilly and squeezes harder. Images flash before a choking Cedra. Images from A Friend in Need, from a burning village and villagers in agony, the battle against Darfon and a future involving Xena and Alti staring down each other angrily.

Int. Underground Cavern

Xena and Gabrielle search for Cedra. They discover the light and head towards it.

Int. Cavern Chamber

Xena and Gabrielle find Cedra by the mysterious light. Blood coming from her nose and mouth, Cedra is out cold and Alti is gone. Xena looks around the tomb and finds the symbol on the wall and is horrified.

Xena

God’s, it can’t be.

Gabrielle

What is it? Xena? What’s the matter?

Xena

(Pointing)

You recognize that symbol.

Gabrielle inspects the symbol on the rock wall. Xena answers for her

Xena

It’s Alti. I new I smelled something foul.

C'mon let’s get you outta here.

Cut to:

Int. Shamaness hut-Day

Cedra is still out, and lying on a bed as the Shamaness chants and annoints Cedra with markings and charms to guard against evil spirits. Gabrielle stands nearby as does Xena. Kyra enters.

Kyra

Gabrielle, the Queen has requested to see you.

Gabrielle nods and follows her out of the hut. Before following, Xena looks back at the girl, she has a look of suspicion on her face.

Int. Queen's hut-Day

Gabrielle

You sent for me Varia?

Varia

I've learned about what happened this morning. Will she be all right?

Gabrielle

I don't know. Lariam is still performing the purification ritual.

Varia

If she is in fact possessed by that witch, the council

has decided she will be killed.

Gabrielle

But what about Cedra? You'll be killing her too. She deserves more of a chance Varia!

Amazon Councilor

Gabrielle, it would be quick and painless. Cedra would feel no pain.

Varia

Any true amazon would want it that way rather than be a slave to such evil.

Gabrielle

She’s not just any Amazon. You don't know that she's possessed.

Varia

I know Gabrielle. But we must be ready if Lariam finds she is. That witch alti brought about the Amazon nation's darkest hours. And it would destroy the tribe to see those days again.

Garielle leaves the council fuming. Xena joins her outside.

Xena

You know she's right.

Gabrielle whirls around

Gabrielle

No. They don't even know if she's possessed in the first place. I refuse to believe that killing her is the only option.

All the Amazons look round at Gabrielle who appears to them as just yelling into thin air. Gabrielle storms off.

Int. Shamanes's hut

Lariam continues her rituals. Now she is painting hieroglyphs on Cedra's forehead. She leans close to paint the calligraphy. Suddenly Cedra’s eyes snap open and she grabs the Lariam's neck choking her.

Cedra

(her voice has changed to Alti's)

Your charms are useless against me. No shamaness has ever stopped me and they never will.

Cedra squeezes harder and the convulsing and choking Lariam is thrown dead to the ground. Cedra grabs a ceremonial knife and charges out the door.

Ext. Shamaness's hut

Cedra takes the two guards at the door by surprise stabbing one and punching out the other. She grabs one of their spears and races off

through the village like a mad woman. Kyra catches site of her running.

Kyra

Hey! Stop her!

Cedra easily deals with the Amazon defenses and races to Gabrielle's hut.

Int. Queen's hut

Kyra races in to the hut interrupting the Queen

Kyra

Queen Varia! Queen Varia!

Queen Varia

What's all this!?

Kyra

The girl my Queen! She's gone crazy!

Varia and the council rush outside.

Cut to:

Int. Gabrielle's hut

Cedra rushes in and searches the hut. She grabs the urn and the chackram and races outside.

Ext. Gabrielle's hut

Cedra is surrounded by Amazons, She is only armed with the Chackram having put her spear through an Amazon her way to the hut.

Varia

Those don't belong to you, and neither does Cedra! Give them back or we'll have to take them back you witch!

Cedra

Come now Varia. There's no need to resort to name calling.

Varia

Amazons! Attack!

The amazons launch at Cedra who battles them off in very Xena like fashion.

Cedra

Is this the best you can do?

Varia

(To another wave of Amazons)

Stop her!

Cedra winds up and lets the chackram fly. The Amazons scatter. Cedra grabs a horse and rides out just as the chackram imbeds itself in a tree. Varia grabs Cyanne who is holding her head.

Varia

Cyanne, get Gabrielle. Now!

Varia turns to the amazons left standing.

Varia

Kyra, Ephedra, Ani you come with me.

Kyra/Ephedra/Ani

Yes my queen.

Varia

We're going after that bitch.

Ext. Cliffside-day

Gabrielle takes pebbles and chucks them off the cliff sitting on her usual rock. Xena sits beside. Cyanne suddenly runs up to Gabrielle, very out of breath.

Gabrielle

Cyanne! What is it?

Cyanne(panting hard)

Gabrielle…you must come quickly…It's Cedra

Gabrielle

No.

Cyanne(now caught up with her breath)

She's gone berserk and attacked the village, and now she's ridden off with Xena's ashes!

Gabrielle

By the Gods no. Lead the way.

They run off to the woods where Cyanne has tied up two horses. Xena rides along with Gabrielle.

Ext. Forest

Cedra/Alti is riding hard and fast through the woods, she is nearing climing up to the montains. We begin to see patches of snow on the ground. Varia and the amazons are in pursuit; as are Cyanne and Gab.

Cyanne

We'll never catch up to them at this rate.

Xena (to Gabrielle)

I know how to get us there faster. Turn left up ahead.

Gabrielle

I know a short cut. Follow me!

They turn up the hill rather than following the strait path.

Cedra is far ahead when she stops. Dismounting-this elevation is wooded and has quite a lot of fresh fallen snow around. There is a small spring and pool nearby. Cedra kneels before it and takes out the urn from under her coat. She holds it and smiles.

Cedra

I've waited a long time for this.

Gab and Cyanne pause as Xena tries to remember which way.

Gabrielle(whispers to Xena)

Which way?

Cyanne

Which way now Gabrielle?

Xena

Um. It's this way.

Gabrielle(whispers)

You sure?

Xena

Positive.

Gabrielle

This way!

The duo race off.

Ext. Mountain spring

Cedra removes the lid of the urn and the wind begins to blow. She begins an ancient chant and stands above the small pool of water where she proceeds to pour the ashes.

Ext. Forest trail

Gabrielle and Cyanne meet the trail again ahead of Varia. Gab has Cyanne go back down the trail to meet Varia. As Cyanne rides off Gabs horse rears and Xena begins to feel strange

Gabrielle

What is it?

Xena

I'm not sure

Suddenly Part of Xena starts to fade and it isn’t sunset.

Gabrielle

Xena!

Xena fades even more.

Xena

Gabrielle!

Xena fades completely

Gabrielle

Xena!

Gabrielle races off to find Cedra.

Ext. Moutnain spring

Cedra continues to pour the rest of the ashes slowly. The ashes blow I the wind and begin to take the outline shape of a human figure. As Alti continues to bring life back to Xena, spirits and ghostly shapes appear. They are the souls that Xena had been guarding, now free that she is alive again. Cedra smiles at herself as she absorbs all the souls that make her stronger. When all the ashes are gone Alti tosses the urn far behind her.

She kneels down and grips the stunned and shivering Xena by the neck and brings her close.

Cedra(with Alti’s voice)

This body and this army of souls will be more than enough to support my return to the world of the living and I owe it all to you. Shame you won’t be there to see me become a god.

Alti’s grip tightens then suddenly her grip loosens

Cedra

No. I won’t kill you. I never would have imagined that brining you back to life would be sweeter than seeing you die. Now I get to see you live out each of your days in torment.

Alti relishes the momentbut suddenly the sound of hooves gets louder and louder.

Cedra flees on horseback leaving Xena behind a rock naked, shivering, and disorientated. Gabrielle comes to a quick stop and dismounts as she sees the urn empty in the snow.

She sadly picks up the urn.

Gabrielle(Saddly)

No. No!

Gabrielle walks through a clearing the trees following the footprints to the pool. Gabrielle hears the sound of someone shivering. She pockets the urn and whips out her sais.

Approaching the rock she leaps round it, weapons drawn. She is not prepared for the site she sees.

Gabrielle(in disbelief)

Xena!?

Xena is too cold and disorientated to answer her but just looks up at her shivering.

Gabrielle

By the Gods Xena.

Gabrielle takes off her coat and wraps it around her friend. They embrace like sisters. Gabrielle rubs Xena’s shoulders trying to get her warm.

Gabrielle

You’re…You’re alive!?

Gabrielle continues her efforts to warm up her friend.

Xena

looking up at Gabrielle with tears in her eyes, weak and shivering.)

She took them, Gabrielle. Alti new brining me back would release them from my care. She took them from me. All of them.

Gabrielle

Took them? who?(a beat)

No.

Gabrielle looks at Xena, she knows she’s talking about the 20,000 souls that Xena remained dead to protect.

Xena

And god knows what she’s doing to them. What torments she’s putting them through. I’ve failed them Gabrielle.

Gabrielle (comfortingly)

Xena.

Xena

Alti was going to kill me right here. She had the chance. But instead she thought letting me live was an even worse fate. She was right.

Xena breaks down and Gabrielle comforts her friend just as the rest of the Amazon pursuers arrive.

Varia

Gabrielle!

The Amazons dismount and join Gabrielle. They too are stunned.

Varia

By the Gods…

Cyanne

…Xena!

Varia

How is this possible?

Gabrielle

It’s a long story.

Fade out:

END OF ACT 2

ACT THREE

Cut to:

Int. Tavern- Night

The tavern is a dive, dark and full of ugly, rough, tough hoodlums and mercenaries. Darfon and the small number of his men have taken over most of the bar. Darfon’s Lieutenant has a scar from his brow down to his throat and is angrily talking with Darfon.

Bentious

If I ever get my hands on that little she-devil I’ll, I’ll…

Cedra enters the room and approaches the table Darfon and his ranking officers sit.

Cedra

You’ll what?

All the tavern stops and swords are drawn on Cedra but she does not take her eyes of Darfon.

Darfon

You’re either exceptionally brave little girl, or incredibly stupid. Don’t you know it’s dangerous to tempt fate twice.

Cedra

I’m not here to discuss the fates Darfon. I want to make a deal.

Darfon laughs

Bentious

Let me slice her throat.

Darfon

(Abruptly cutting off Bentious)

Shut up Bentious. Men put down your swords.

The men put away their arms and return to their drinking and gambling except for the main guards at the table. Darfon invites Cedra to sit.

Darfon

They way you’re going you’ll earn a reputation like that Xena who was another thorn in my side I can thankfully

say has been plucked out.

Darfon takes a swig of beer from his mug.

Cedra

What if I told you that Xena is alive?

Darfon puts down his mug.

Darfon

What? That’s impossible. She was killed in the Far East during a battle. I hear they even took her head as a trophy.

Cedra

What if I can prove it to you that she is alive?

Darfon

You haven’t mentioned a word about what you want. And why should I trust the girl who destroyed my army?

Cedra

I want Xena out of the way as you do. With the amazons behind her she’s almost invincible. I need men like yours to help me.

Darfon

And why do you need her out of the way might I ask?

Cedra leans closer.

Cedra

I intend to crush the Amazons.

Some of the men laugh.

Bentious

What!? First you help them, now you want to destroy them? Please, that’s the dumbest reason I’ve ever heard. Sir, let me kill her.

Before Bentious can draw his dagger, Cedra takes out two large bags and thumps them on the table. They’re full of gold that spills onto the table. The group of men crowd around the table greedily licking their lips.

Cedra

That’s twenty thousand dinars now and there will be 20 thousand more when I’m finished with you.

Darfon’s eyes are gleaming.

Darfon(reaching for a handful of the coins.)

That’s reason enough for me.

Cut to:

Int. Amazon hut

Xena is almost restored to full health and is lying up in bed as Gabrielle brings her hot tea.

Gabrielle

How are you feeling? You look better.

Xena sips at the tea.

Xena

I feel terrible.

Gabrielle

You’re being too hard on yourself Xena. You had no way of stopping Alti. There must be a way to stop her.

Xena

I don’t know. Those souls have made her more powerful and the new body she’s in makes her more dangerous.

Gabrielle

Why Cedra? Alti has no connection with her. Cedra has done nothing to her. She doesn’t even know who Alti is.

Xena

Alti just needed the right host to come along at the right time and Cedra was it. Alti knew that Cedra had great potential as Lariam did and she knew that it would hurt the tribe even more to see one of their own turn against them. She knew it would hurt you. But she’s after more than just revenge.

Gabrielle

What do you mean?

Xena

She mentioned that she said something about becoming a God.

Gabrielle

What does that mean?

Xena

I wish I knew.

Cyanne enters the hut behind them.

Cyanne

Gabrielle. There’s something you should see.

Gabrielle

What is it?

Cyanne

Something terrible. You must come.

Gabrielle

I’ll be right there.

Xena gets out of bed and begins hooking up her armor.

Gabrielle

What are you doing? You need to rest.

Xena

I can’t rest, not until everything is put right.

Gabrielle knows she can’t argue with her and from under the bed she picks up the chackram that she hid after the incident with Cedra.

Gabrielle

Then you’ll be needing this I think.

Xena smiles and takes the weapon from her friend.

Cut to:

Ext. Forest Road-Day

There is remains of a merchant convoy that has been ravaged. Bodies and carts lay in ruin. The Amazons, Gabrielle and Xena investigate the gory scene.

Cyanne

Who could’ve done such a thing? Thieves?

Xena

No. Thieves wouldn’t waste time with slaughtering the merchants. Someone enjoyed doing this

Gabrielle

Alti?

Xena

That would be my guess. She needed money badly to make a hit like this. She must be hiring mercenaries.

(Xena to Cyanne)

Who discovered this mess?

Cyanne

Varia was leading a patrol and they never reported back. So I came out to find them and I found this massacre.

Xena

Where are they now?

Cyanne

I don’t know. There’s no sign of them anywhere.

Xena looks back over the horrible mess with deep concern.

Cut to:

Int. Large cave

The cave is quite large. There is one wide arched entrance that leads to the main cavern, which is a huge circular open space with statues, shrines and torches. There is a set of shallow steps leading to a naturally cut tunnel leading further into the cave, but it is unlit. Darfon and his men hang around the large cavernous space waiting for something. They look at the walls and statues. Cedra comes through the entrance along with several of the Darfon’s men pushing them along.

Darfon

And who are these lovelies?

The Amazons include Varia, Kyra, Ephedra and three other younger Amazons.

Cedra

Two of these Amazons are what’s going to bring Xena

and the Amazons to us.

Bentious

Ah, I get it. We use live bait to lure them here and save us all the work of draggin’ em in here.

Cedra

Bentious, you’re not as dumb as you look.

Bentious (looking pleased with himself)

Thank you.

(a beat)

Wait a minute. Hey!

He draws his sword but Darfon silences him.

Darfon

So what is this place anyway? Some Amazon museum?

Cedra

It’s one of the most sacred of Amazon sites. Queens have been buried here. And they say that there are treasures through these tunnels beyond any man’s wildest dreams.

Darfon

Treasures, I like the sound of that.

Cedra

But first we deal with the Amazons.

Darfon

Of course. A deal is a deal.

Darfon

(Pointing at Kyra and then Varia)

That one. And that one.

Cedra

No. Not that one. She’s a Queen. We need her here. Use that one (Bentious grabs Ephedra)

The two Amazons are herded outside.

Ext. Sacred Cave-Day

Darfon

You two are going to give Xena a message from us. Understand?

Ephedra spits at Darfon but he maintains his composure. Cedra steps in front of him leaning close to the two women.

Cedra

Make sure you bring Xena back with you or I start killing your sisters one by one. And tell Xena I enjoyed meeting Akemi. She added so much to my abilities.

They set the Amazons free. The two women race for the woods.

Cedra calmly looks over at Darfon who is armed with a bow and arrow.

Cedra

Tell me Warlord, you know more about this than I. How many does it take to send a message?

Darfon draws his bow and aims carefully at his amazon target off camera and smiles.

Darfon

One.

He lets the arrow fly.

Ext. Amazon village-Day

The Amazons are upset and Gabrielle is now Queen in Varia’s absence.

Gabrielle tries to calm the crowd of Amazons.

Cyanne

We must find Queen Varia and our other sisters. Who knows what Alti may have done to them.

Amazon

I agree. We can’t just wait around any longer. We need action and now!

Gabrielle

You don’t know Alti like Xena and I do. She’s more dangerous

than you realize.

Amazon

But these are our sisters Gabrielle. Our Queen! Even one of our own has been turned against us. Alti must be stopped.

Before Gabrielle can answer Kyra staggers into the village. Out of breath and injured. Gabrielle rushes to her aide.

Kyra

Alti. She has Varia and the others and she’s teamed up with Darfon and his mercenaries. They’re at the sacred cave.

Gabrielle

You were right Xena, Alti’s forming an army. But there’s nothing in that cave but statues and alters.

Xena

And Ambrosia.

The crowd of Amazons hushes and looks at Xena.

Cyanne

Ambrosia? I thought it was a myth.

Xena

It was the same ambrosia Ares was once looking for. It was a gift from Artemis to the Amazons and it’s very real and Alti wants it so she can return to the land of the living.

Gabrielle

But if she takes the ambrosia she’ll lose the souls as you did.

Xena

Maybe not. Since she inhabits the body of a mortal, the ambrosia would make Cedra…

Cyanne

A God.

Xena

Exactly. Then she would have the power to skip between the spirit and physical world with no trouble and still torment those souls.

Gabrielle

What do we do?

Xena

We should take a small group as not to endanger the whole tribe. Choose your five best warriors and be ready as fast as you can.

Gabrielle

You do know we’re playing right into her hands?

Xena

I know but there’s no other way.

Gabrielle runs through the crowd grabbing warriors as she goes to get horses and weapons.

Kyra who is being supported by her friends speaks up again.

Kyra

Xena. There was another part of the message that Alti said was just for you. Something about someone named Akemi.

You know what she’s talking about?

Xena goes silent, she knows that Alti has discovered Akemi and knows that this would hurt her greatly.

Gabrielle and her five warriors ride up ready to go. Gabrielle hands Xena her reins.

Kyra

I’m coming with you.

Xena

You’re in no condition to-

Kyra cuts Xena off.

Kyra

They killed Ephedra and they killed my two blood sisters Xena. I’m not going to let that witch kill anymore of my sisters and I’ll be damned if Cedra has to spend eternity as Alti’s slave. So are you going to let me come or not?

Xena nods and Kyra gets on behind her. The rescue party gallop off to the sacred cave.

Cut to:

Int. Sacred cave-Day

The rescue party sneak in and hide in the mouth of the secret entrance.

Kyra

That witch’s presence defiles this place.

Xena

Ssshhhhhh!

They can see from their vantage point Cedra, Darfon and the captured Amazons. They watch as Cedra points to Varia and guards lead her to

the steps.

Gabrielle(whispering)

Xena, what’s happening?

Xena(whispering)

That’s the tunnel that leads to the chamber where the ambrosia is. It’s said no one has ever come back after entering the tunnel, that only a true Amazon may pass.

Gabrielle

They’re using her as a guinea pig.

Xena

Not if I can help it.

Xena whips out her chackram and lets it fly. The ricocheting chackram causes confusion among Darfon’s men giving the rescue party some advantage. A fierce fight breaks out. Swords, fists, sais and kicks are exchanged. Gabrielle ends up squaring off with Cedra who acts like a totally different person.

Gabrielle

I’ll teach you to mess with the Amazons!

Cedra

No Gabrielle. It is I who’ll teach you a thing or two!

The two fight and Gabrielle gets the upper hand putting her sai to Cedra’s throat.

Cedra

Go ahead Gabrielle, end it. Kill me and

kill one of your beloved sisters.

Gabrielle hesitates and waits. She can’t bring herself to kill Cedra. This hesitation allows Alti to get the upper hand. Cedra grabs the sai and holds Gabrielle in an arm lock and the sai up to her throat.

Cedra

(Yelling)

I suggest you drop your weapons or this one is the first to die.

The room stops and Xena and Alti’s eyes meet in anger. Darfon’s men re-organize and disarm the women and assemble them in a cluster. Darfon walks up to Xena.

Xena

Well, well Darfon. You’re a sore site for eyes.

I’m amazed to see you’re still alive.

Darfon

I should say the same about you.

Cedra approaches Xena and Gabrielle who are both being held back by guards.

Xena

I should have realized you’d go for the ambrosia Alti. You were just waiting for the right Amazon to come along so you could use her to get it.

Darfon

(To Cedra)

Ambrosia? You didn’t mention that.

Cedra

I did say there were treasures like you’d never seen here. And I doubt the likes of you have ever seen what ambrosia looks like.

(Cedra gives Darfon a sharp look)

Cedra (Cont’d)

Although Cedra does embody the spirit of a true Amazon, I found out the hard way the Amazon ancients can easily see through the squeaky clean exterior of this shell well into my dark soul. I barely escaped with my life.

She holds up her arm and shows Xena a nasty looking scar. Gabrielle shudders.

Kyra

You mean Cedra’s life.

Kyra’s remark gets her a punch to the stomach.

Cedra

So you see I require another pure spirit to get it for me.

Gabrielle

Me.

Cedra

Very good Gabrielle.

Cedra points her sai at Gabrielle.

Gabrielle

You can forget it Alti. I’d rather die first.

Cedra

Oh, you’ll die. But you won’t be the first.

Cedra turns the sai away from Gabrielle and turns it on Xena, stabbing through her midsection. The two women stare each other down with great anger exactly like the vision Cedra had in the underground cavern.

Xena

(defiant)

I thought you wanted to keep me alive?

Cedra

I lied.

Cedra twists the sai and wrenches it out, Xena crumples back to the floor clutching her midsection.

Gab wriggles away from the guard’s grip and goes to Xena’s side cushioning Xena’s head on her knees. A puddle of blood expands on the floor as Xena is quickly slipping away. Gabrielle seems to forget the world around her and holds Xena’s hand as tears form in her eyes.

Gabrielle

No Xena. Not again. Don’t leave me again.

Xena

(Disorientated and distant)

Gabrielle?

Gabrielle

I’m here Xena. Please hold on.

The guards surround the duo. Cedra watches.

Xena

(She coughs and blood starts trickling from her mouth)

You know that even in death I will always be with you…

Gabrielle

I know.

Xena takes her other bloody hand and grips Gabrielle’s wrist with all her remaining strength.

Xena

(voice weak)

Gabrielle…

Xena shuts her eyes and her grip loosens around Gabrielle’s hand and wrist. She fades away.

Gabrielle

Xena. Xena? No. No!

Gabrielle in her anger tries to rush Cedra and the guards point their weapons at her.

Cedra

Killing me won’t bring her back. It will only send her more company.

Gabrielle looks round at the other Amazons who are all at knife or sword point.

Gabrielle is out of options.

Cut to:

Gabrielle is at the stairs, a torch in her right hand.

Cedra yells a warning:

Cedra

(Pointing to the Amazons)

You try anything and I’ll kill the rest of them. Starting with this one. (A guard pushes Varia forward at spear point.)

Gabrielle just continues forward towards the naturally formed tunnel ahead of her. It is un-decorated.

Int. Inner Cavern chamber

The chamber is again circular with pillars all around the perimeter of the circle. Each pillar is a carved statue of an ancient queen or deity. In the center a box sits. The ambrosia. As Gabrielle approaches

Blue ghost-like figures melt from the walls, they are the queens from the past. We see Queen Melosa, Margot, the original Cyanne and Ephiny.

Ephiny

Gabrielle.

Gabrielle

Ephiny?

Ephiny

You stand before us only because you are of true Amazon of pure spirit Gabrielle. You are the first in a long time.

Margot

Why have you come?

Gabrielle

It’s a long story. I need the ambrosia.

Melosa

Tell us why have you come for the ambrosia.

Ephiny

interrupting Gabrielle)

Think carefully Gabrielle before you answer.

Cut to:

Int. Main cavern

Cedra and the others are waiting.

Cedra

pacing back and forth)

What’s taking so long? She should have been out by now.

Xena meanwhile has crossed over to the other side. Her spirit rises from her body. But she remains in the cave. She looks around and sees everyone anxiously waiting. Waiting for Gabrielle.

Suddenly she spies Alti standing next to Cedra, as if whispering thoughts into her ear.

Xena draws her sword.

Xena

You should have let me live.

Alti is surprised to see Xena.

Alti

What are you doing here? You were supposed to go the underworld!

No matter, I’ll send you there my self!

Xena and Alti duke it out. Alti uses her newfound strength against Xena, conjuring up even more painful images from Xena’s past including Xena’s final battle in Japan. Xena manages to recover and keep going.

Meanwhile, Cedra is showing signs of wear. She feels everything that Alit is feeling because Alti still controls her. Darfon and his men are worried as they watch Cedra writher in agony for no outward reason.

Back in the spirit world, Alti and Xena battle through the cavern, which appears to be frozen in time. None of the other men or women move, they are frozen like statues. Xena gets the upper hand against Alti and is ready to deliver the final blow as she holds Alti by the collar and raises her sword in the other.

Alti

Think what you’re doing Xena!

Xena

I am. I’m going to send your stinking hide to Hell!

Alti

What about Cedra? My soul still occupies her body. Killing me will kill her too.

Xena hesitates and lets her sword drop and loosens her grip. She isn’t sure she can kill Cedra.

Xena walks away and Alti grabs a knife from the floor. She charges Xena from behind. Xena is ready for her attack and performs a backwards pin-wheel sword move impaling the charging Alti.

Falling dead upon the floor. Alti fades away as the stolen souls escape her and flood around Xena.

In the world of the living, Cedra reacts if she too were stabbed in the stomach and drops to the floor. Darfon’s men are terrified seeing the young woman randomly crumple to the floor in agony. She goes quiet.

Bentious

Let’s get outta here Sir.

Darfon

Cyanne

Is she?

Varia listens to Cedra’s heart. She looks up at Cyanne with an expression that tells us the young woman’s sorry fate.

She looks behind as Gabrielle walks through the tunnel with the Ghostly figure of Ephiny, a small leather pouch in her hand. She pauses as she looks around to see Darfon and his men gone and Cedra lying on the floor next to Xena.

Gabrielle

What happened?

Cyanne

We don’t know. All of a sudden she started to act strange and then she collapsed.

Ephiny

Why doesn’t Xena explain herself.

Xena suddenly appears, in the same form as Ephiny and the others.

Gabrielle

Xena?

Xena

It is better this way Gabrielle.

Gabrielle

Better what way? What are you talking about?

Another blue figure appears and stands by Xena, it’s Cedra.

Gabrielle is crushed.

Gabrielle

No.

Cedra

Gabrielle I’m now free. Xena freed me from Alti’s grip.

Gabrielle

Free? But you’re dead!

Cedra

Better dead than a slave Gabrielle.

Gabrielle turns to Ephiny.

Gabrielle(pleading)

This isn’t fair. Loosing Xena was enough. But now her!?

Ephiny

Cedra has chosen to remain here with us Gabrielle.

Gabrielle looks sadly at Cedra.

Cedra

It was my decision Gabrielle. You showed me that there is more to being an Amazon than fighting and skill, there’s sisterhood. And as my sister you deserve to be happy.

Gabrielle

I…I don’t understand.

Gabrielle looks round to Ephiny for an explanation.

Ephiny

Cedra has agreed to take over Xena’s role as guardian of the twenty-thousand souls so that Xena may return.

Tears run down Gabrielle’s face.

Gabrielle

But are you happy Cedra?

Gabrielle, I will get to see my family again and to see you smile again will be enough to warm my heart for years to come.

Gabrielle smiles.

Ephiny

It’s now or never Gabrielle.

Gabrielle kneels beside Xena and places small pieces in her mouth and moves Xena’s jaw to help her chew them. The reaction is delayed, but suddenly Xena’s ghost disappears and Xena gives out a loud gasp.

Gabrielle gives her a huge hug.

Gabrielle

Oh Xena. Don’t ever leave me again.

Xena can only wrap her arms around her friend.

Ephiny, Cedra and the others all look on happily and in amazement.

Gabrielle helps Xena stand as she turns to Cedra

Gabrielle

Thank you.

Xena

I owe you one kid.

Cedra smiles.

Cedra

Just promise me I won’t see either of you in the afterlife for a good long time.

They exchange smiles and the amazons, Gabrielle and Xena leave the Cavern.

Ephiny and Cedra smile as they watch them exit.

Cedra

You think they’ll be all right?

Ephiny

I think they’ll be just fine. C’mon. Let’s go.

The duo turn and head towards the inner cavern tunnel and disappear.

Cut to:

Ext. Cavern- Sunset

The Amazons, Gabrielle and Xena all mount their horses and head for home.

Varia

It’s good to have you back Xena. It wasn’t the same without you.

Xena

It’s good to be back.

Xena smiles at Gabrielle.

Varia rides off followed by the other Amazons. Gabrielle just pauses looking at Xena.

Xena

You all right Gabrielle?

Gabrielle

(She takes a deep breath and smiles)

I am now.

They trot off down the path after the Amazons.

Xena

So, where to next?

Gabrielle

I dunno. Where ever the road takes us?

Xena

My thought exactly.

The duo rides off down the path.

Fade out

END OF ACT THREE

THE END