FADE IN

FOREST PATH - DAY

XENA and GABRIELLE walk down the path, Xena leading ARGO II. She is dressed in her typical dark leather and armor, while Gabrielle wears the red velvet she’s adopted lately. The trees dapple the sun reaching them, but it’s still a beautiful day. That has gotten faint smiles out of both, and more relaxed body language. Gabrielle slows, glancing around. After a few moments, they both stop.

XENA

You all right?

GABRIELLE

Xena considers this, checking the scene against her own memory.

XENA

GABRIELLE

Xena glances at Gabrielle for a beat longer than necessary.

XENA

Gabrielle nods, visibly shaking off the morose thoughts that have intruded on such a pleasant day. Xena sets a supportive hand on the bard’s shoulder, and gives it a squeeze. Gabrielle smiles back, though not at full strength, and they resume walking.

CUT TO:

EXT. AMAZON VILLAGE - DAY

There are a few thatched huts, and leather-clad Amazons going about their lives. Most have a sword strapped to their back, or a dagger tucked into a boot. Some walk in groups of two or three, or transport baskets. Two spar, hand-to-hand. Xena and Gabrielle enter, briefly taking in the sight before VARIA greets them, dressed in her usual black leather. Xena drops Argo II’s reins with a scratch behind her ears.

VARIA

GABRIELLE

VARIA

XENA

Varia shoots a look at Xena, then turns to walk off. Xena and Gabrielle exchange glances, and then follow side by side.

CUT TO:

INT. QUEEN’S HUT - DAY

These quarters are Spartan and somewhat dark, with little ornamentation. A set of scrolls is stacked on a rough-hewn table, along with a goblet of wine. A small collection of weapons, mostly swords but also evidencing a bow and a battle-axe, is displayed on the walls. There are no small touches to hint at the personality of its owner, such as a shrine. Xena, Gabrielle, and Varia are present, standing in an approximation of a triangle.

GABRIELLE

XENA

Gabrielle gives Xena an ‘Easy, Tiger’ look, then returns her attention to Varia.

VARIA

Varia moves to the table, opening a scroll to display a map of Greece, and setting a finger down in Thessaly. Xena and Gabrielle move closer, Gabrielle next to Varia, to see.

VARIA

Varia sighs.

VARIA

XENA

VARIA

GABRIELLE

VARIA

GABRIELLE

VARIA

XENA

VARIA

(looking to GABRIELLE)

GABRIELLE

VARIA

Gabrielle sighs, not liking the idea but unable to come up with an alternative.

GABRIELLE

VARIA

Varia rolls up the map, with a smile. Xena and Gabrielle exchange vaguely worried looks.

CUT TO:

INT. GUEST HUT — DUSK

These quarters are also largely unornamented, but the lighter furs on the single, large bed and larger windows give it a brighter look than the Queen’s hut. Gabrielle is occupied with unpacking a saddlebag, neatly laying out a set of reddish-brown Amazon leathers along with the beaded belt and Queen’s necklace. A set of small wood boxes has also been unpacked, as well as a writing kit with a quill, bottle of ink, and three blank scrolls. Xena is standing aside, watching her partner go through this process.

GABRIELLE

XENA

GABRIELLE

Gabrielle has noticeably not been making eye contact with XENA during this speech

XENA

Gabrielle looks over, then turns back and removes an apple from the saddlebag.

GABRIELLE

XENA

(she smiles)

This manages to get a laugh out of Gabrielle, who stops fussing with the saddlebag.

GABRIELLE

Xena nods.

XENA

GABRIELLE

END TEASER

ACT 1

EXT. AMAZON VILLAGE — EARLY MORNING

Far fewer Amazons are out and about, and those that are appear to be on guard duty. Xena, Gabrielle, Varia and 3 Amazon warriors — AELLA, THALIA, and ILONA have assembled outside the Queen’s hut. The three are all around Varia’s age, but Aella is a tall blonde with an almost delicate look, Thalia is not much taller than a 14 year old with dark coloring, and Ilona seems to have been colored in tones of gold and copper. Gabrielle has changed into the Amazon outfit seen earlier, adding coordinating gauntlets, and Varia and her three warriors are carrying travel sacks as well as weapons.

They appear to talk for several moments, the gestures relatively calm. Then Varia, Ilona, Aella, and Thalia mount their horses and ride off.

XENA

CUT TO:

EXT. ELEA — DAY

Varia, Ilona, Thalia, and Aella cross a grassy area, on the way to a modest-sized Greek village. It is not exactly poor, but no one seems to have much either. There is something off about it, and as they draw closer it becomes apparent. For the time of day, there are very few people out — mostly women - and almost no animals.

AELLA

It’s quiet...

MALE VILLAGER (O.S)

Should be, after all you’ve done!

A group of villagers appear, numbering perhaps 8. There are only two men among them, both very young. They rush the Amazons, wielding mostly farm implements. As the two groups clash, Varia makes a particular point of not hurting her opponents too badly.

VARIA

We’re here to help!

The villagers don’t seem to hear, and the brawl continues. The Amazons are winning handily, and keep from causing serious injury. A teenage GIRL runs into the background, a sturdier specimen than most.

GIRL

Stop it! They’re from the southern tribes!

VILLAGER

You sure, girl?

The fight slows to a halt as both sides piece the situation together.

VARIA

(to Girl)

VILLAGER

I apologize for the mistake.

VARIA

We weren’t harmed.

GIRL

This is their Queen, Varia.

Varia looks vaguely uncomfortable with the attention.

VILLAGER

Come in... accept what hospitality we have.

CUT TO:

INT. ELEA — TAVERN — NIGHT

The Amazons and villagers — including a female tavernkeep - are seated around a darkened, medium size room. Each has a small plate of food, or a mug, in hand.

THALIA

I’m sorry to hear about that... I have a daughter myself.

TAVERNKEEP

THALIA

Most of us are decent people...

VARIA

The tavernkeep chuckles at this exchange.

GIRL

VARIA

VARIA

That’s right.

GIRL

Neat... I’ve read a couple of her scrolls; they’re amazing.

ILONA

Odd, but everything about them seems to be.

CUT TO:

INT. ELEA — UPSTAIRS ROOM — NIGHT

This room is somewhat smaller, and the four twin-size beds seem to have been stuffed into the space. A few candles provide light, but that is it. The Amazons are occupied in various tasks getting ready for bed, including removing belts and setting weapons aside but within reach. All of this has the ease of long habit.

VARIA

We should leave as early as we can.

Thalia snickers.

THALIA

Varia is a bit amused, and gives an indulgent half smile.

VARIA

It’s just the Amazon thing, she’ll get over it.

ILONA

THALIA

I don’t think she’d be happy as one of us, for some reason.

AELLA

Really?

THALIA

Yeah... she seems like more of a scholar.

Her sisters give disbelieving looks.

THALIA

Each Amazon moves to blow out the candles in her vicinity, one by one. What is left is faint moonlight, outlining them as they get into bed, and shift to comfortable positions. Finally, they relax.

CUT TO:

INT. AUDIENCE CHAMBER — DAY

Gabrielle is seated on a throne made of mahogany, which is really just a chair with slightly more ornate carvings. The space is open, otherwise, and two PETITIONERS stand, having presented their case to the Queen.

GABRIELLE

(to the FIRST PETITIONER)

Gabrielle resettles herself on the throne.

GABRIELLE

FIRST PETITIONER

The FIRST PETITIONER looks to the SECOND, who nods.

SECOND PETITIONER

FIRST PETITIONER

They both nod respectfully to Gabrielle, and then exit. Gabrielle sighs, resting her elbows on her knees. She rubs her hands over her face, then through her hair. Xena enters silently, but Gabrielle looks up anyway.

GABRIELLE

XENA

GABRIELLE

Gabrielle stands, taking a moment to roll her shoulders and stretch her back after sitting so long.

XENA

GABRIELLE

XENA

Xena has a slight glint to her eyes, epitomizing the ‘cat that ate the canary’.

CUT TO:

WATERFALL AREA — DAY

A modestly sized waterfall churns nearby, the river it is part of edged by a grassy area. The scene is rich in color, and life. Xena and Gabrielle lay on their backs in the grass near the river, Xena with her hands behind her head and armor off. Both are quite relaxed, eyes only half open. Food remains lay on a cloth between them.

GABRIELLE

XENA

Gabrielle turns onto her side toward Xena, propping her head on her hand.

GABRIELLE

Xena doesn’t argue the point.

XENA

GABRIELLE

XENA

Gabrielle considers the question, but only briefly.

GABRIELLE

Gabrielle relaxes slightly in her new position, and Xena looks toward her.

XENA

Gabrielle smiles, then impulsively leans over and places a kiss on Xena’s lips. The warrior returns it briefly. When they break, Gabrielle’s face is anxious. Xena’s is actually unusually calm. Both have recognized that this was not a simple, friendly kiss. Gabrielle starts to say something, twice, before Xena speaks.

XENA

GABRIELLE

XENA

Gabrielle loses some of the ‘spooked horse’ look, body language easing to near normal. After another moment of silence, she gives a laugh of release.

GABRIELLE

Xena smiles.

XENA

The two kiss again with no sense of hesitancy or worry over whether their feelings are returned.

CUT TO:

EXT. BURNED VILLAGE — DAY

The overcast sky lends an additional note of gray to a place already colored entirely in charred black. The burnt-out husks of buildings are recognizable as such, but there is nothing to indicate what they were used for in the past. There are no bodies or fresh graves visible, though wood stakes with writing on them are lodged in the ground. Varia, Aella, Thalia, and Ilona (all dressed as before) walk carefully through the wreckage, disgusted by what they see.

AELLA

VARIA

Varia slows for a moment, looking at something, then returns to her normal speed.

THALIA

VARIA

Something to consider… Ilona, over here.

The group slows to a halt, except for Ilona who heads over to Varia. Varia kneels and picks up an etched metal circle the diameter of her little finger with a bit of broken necklace chain out of the dirt and ash.

VARIA

Ilona looks, then shakes her head.

ILONA

Varia purses her lips to keep back an expletive, and punches the ground. She stands.

VARIA

THALIA

Thalia and Varia grin at one another briefly. Then Thalia turns and head down another pathway, keeping her eyes on the ground. Varia, Ilona, and Aella return their attention to the area they are at, the young Queen absently cleaning the metal disc of any lingering grime. There seems to be nothing of interest, and they move a few feet forward, continuing the process. Varia tucks the metal piece into her boot. They proceed slowly for several more feet, carefully searching with no luck.

THALIA (O.S)

Sounds of metal on metal can be heard. The three Amazons glance at one another, then draw their swords and run for --

EXT. BURNED VILLAGE — PATHWAY - DAY

The pathway is as damaged as the rest of the village. There are marks on the ground where earth has been turned up, but Thalia has disappeared. Her sword, now broken, has been left in the ash. The other Amazons keep their weapons out, alert to an attack. Varia gives a growl of frustration.

VARIA

EXT. AMAZON VILLAGE — DAY

Things are bustling again, with Amazons going about their daily lives. Some are on guard duty, while others are engaged in various tasks such as woodcarving or cooking. Two little girls about 9 years old race through, laughing. Then the scene glides to --

EXT. AMAZON VILLAGE — TRAINING GROUND — DAY

The area has been cleared of vegetation, and various challenges — such as a few sword-nicked posts and rope ‘bar’ — set up. Four Amazons, apparently distracted from their own exercise from the practice staves they carry, watch as Xena spars with another. She is clearly focused, but hasn’t really broken a sweat and doesn’t use her ‘fancier’ moves such as flips.

XENA

They exchange more strikes and parries, the AMAZON STUDENT showing a style that is lighter on her feet than Xena’s more solid approach. Xena speeds things up slightly, testing the other woman’s limits. The Amazon rallies for a few more passes but then leaves her midsection open. Xena takes advantage of this, swinging her sword at that target. She stops the strike a few centimeters from doing damage. Her opponent sees this and sighs, dropping out of her fighting stance.

XENA

AMAZON

XENA

The Amazon nods, a bit annoyed at herself for needing the instruction but determined to learn from the best — namely Xena.

AMAZON

XENA

Given that Xena is still pristine, this comment draws a bit of a snort from the Amazon.

AMAZON

They sheath their swords in a warriorly silence.

XENA

AMAZON

XENA

The Amazon’s brows furrow slightly.

AMAZON

Xena is concerned by this.

INT. GUEST HUT — DAY

Xena and Gabrielle have settled in a bit more, putting Gabrielle’s boxes and writing kit on the desk, and folded a fur at the foot of the bed. But, the presence of the saddlebags with neat bedrolls attached points to the fact that this is a temporary situation. Gabrielle is seated at a desk that was not in viewing angle earlier, writing. Xena enters, stonefaced.

XENA

Gabrielle…

Gabrielle looks up from her work, momentarily reading Xena’s expression.

GABRIELLE

How’d the sparring go?

XENA

Gabrielle ponders this a moment.

GABRIELLE

XENA

Most likely…

Gabrielle takes a deep breath.

GABRIELLE

(with a bit of sarcasm)

Perfect.

XENA

GABRIELLE

XENA

GABRIELLE

Xena gives a small smile, with an almost nostalgic tone. She steps two or three paces closer, taking her almost to the front edge of the desk and resting a hand on it. Gabrielle slides her own hand across, taking it. The movement is almost casual, something she has done hundreds of times.

XENA

We will figure this out.

GABRIELLE

I know — we always do.

CUT TO:

EXT. BURNED VILLAGE — PATHWAY — DAY

Nothing has changed in the interim, except attitude. Varia is out for blood, while Aella and Ilona do not seem to have processed what has happened. Aella starts walking slowly toward Thalia’s abandoned sword, eyes on the ground. Her face is serious, and after several beats she bends to get a better look at something. Then, she glances back at the others.

AELLA

I think we have a lead.

She puts a hand in a light boot print, picking out a bit of red earth. Varia and Ilona head over, and Aella displays the unusual dirt. Varia smiles, but it’s not a pleasant one.

VARIA

CUT TO:

THESSALIAN FOREST — DAY

This forest is still beautiful, but it is not the lush green of the Amazons’ forest. Varia leads, followed by Ilona, and then Aella. They move through the patchy ferns warily. There is no apparent specific destination.

VARIA

(quietly)

We’ll go another four miles, and then stop for the day.

Varia has set the tone by speaking that way.

AELLA

Alright… Varia, she’s probably fine.

Ilona nods agreement.

ILONA

Varia looks back at them, almost as if this is mutiny.

VARIA

Ilona is getting frustrated.

ILONA

VARIA

Let’s keep moving.

Varia turns her back to them and keeps moving. Ilona and Aella watch her for a moment then resume walking, catching up after a few seconds. They approach a rise with less dense tree cover. When Varia reaches an angle where she can see over she suddenly stops and ducks down a few inches. She gives a hand signal, at which her companions move up quickly, also staying low.

They peer out over the ridge, seeing the —

EXT. RENEGADE AMAZON VILLAGE — DAY

At this distance, detail is difficult to make out but certain features can be seen. There is a central square, and the buildings tend to be rectangular instead of round like in Varia’s tribe. From the coloring, they may also be constructed of wood but this is not certain.

VARIA (O.S)

(whisper)

Well, well…

EXT. RIDGE — DAY

The three Amazon faces are lined up along it, studying the settlement. Conversation continues at a whisper.

ILONA

VARIA

Varia stands, still crouched a bit, and moves over the top. Ilona and Aella follow.

END ACT 1

ACT 2

CUT TO:

EXT. RENEGADE AMAZON VILLAGE — TREE - DUSK

The tree is a grandmother one, providing large sturdy branches for Varia, Ilona, and Aella to perch on and plenty of foliage for cover. They have tucked themselves into shaded spots to further decrease the risk of being seen. They watch the —

EXT. RENEGADE AMAZON VILLAGE — CENTRAL SQUARE — DUSK

The buildings were indeed wood, and the women who occupy the scene are dressed like Amazons. None of them are without a weapon of some kind and there is a distinct military bearing to their movements. Two are arguing, just above the general din.

SNARKY RENEGADE

TALL seems to want to say more, but holds her tongue. She is clearly the more mature of the two, and SNARKY’s accusation seems dubious.

Varia turns her attention from the scene to the other two members of her team. She gives a hand signal indicating Tall, and then one for ‘capture’. Ilona nods, and Aella adds another comment, to which Varia responds with a gesture not to worry.

INT. TALL’S HUT — NIGHT

Several candles provide fairly weak illumination for a well kept, if standard set of living quarters. Tall is seated cross-legged on the floor, a candle a foot and a half to her right, absorbed in stringing a compound bow. Her fingers work carefully, but surely. It is about half done. A growing shadow can be seen behind her.

A female hand is quickly placed over her mouth, and an arm grabbed and twisted behind her. The bow falls to the floor, the string going slack. She struggles, but doesn’t have a good angle to launch a true attack. Varia’s face appears over her shoulder.

VARIA

We’re taking a trip, sweetie…

Tall gives an outraged thrash, which Varia stops by twisting her arm further.

VARIA

Tall does, willing herself to cooperate even as she tries to see her attacker’s face. Varia waits a beat, then hauls Tall to her feet. Ilona is watching from just inside the door. Roughly, Varia walks her captive toward it. Ilona pulls out a strip of linen, and uses it as a gag for Tall. Next are wrist bindings, made of rope and tied with rehearsed efficiency by Varia and Ilona.

Ilona opens the door, to reveal that Aella has been stationed in a dark spot under the eaves. Varia gives Tall a push on the back, and the woman stumbles slightly toward it.

CUT TO:

THESSALIAN FOREST - AMAZON CAMP — NIGHT

Bedrolls have been laid out, and a small fire built. There are faint water sounds in the background. Varia, Ilona, Aella, and Tall have all been seated in a half circle. Tall is still gagged, with her hands bound. Varia finishes off the last of a trail bar, then eyes her prisoner for a moment. Then, she draws a dagger from a boot. Varia reaches toward Tall, cutting the gag with the dagger. Tall gives her head a shake to get rid of the thing.

TALL

You’re with that little one…

VARIA

TALL

Carefully, because she can’t use her arms, Tall lays on her side as if preparing to go to sleep that way. Varia hauls her back up.

VARIA

I’ve got time.

Tall glares at her.

ILONA

What don’t we understand?

TALL

Those villagers aren’t innocents in all this. This is justice.

VARIA

TALL

I don’t have anything more to say.

Varia scowls, then punches… Tall slumps over, out cold. Aella and Ilona watch, and it’s apparent from their expressions that while they agree the woman needs to pay for her involvement, they also think Varia has lost her temper.

VARIA

What?

CUT TO:

INT. AMAZON VILLAGE — AUDIENCE CHAMBER — DAY

While the chamber’s setup is the same, Gabrielle has left the throne for an informal meeting with two of the senior warriors and Xena. She nods at something the OLDER AMAZON of the two has said.

GABRIELLE

OLDER

Good…

Children’s giggles can be heard, and the adults turn to see two girls both about seven years old who have snuck in. They have rather similar looks, and could almost be fraternal twins. The AMAZON MOM clearly recognizes them.

MOM

ALEXA, clearly the troublemaker of the two, lets another giggle escape.

ALEXA

Sorry.

MADI

Xani and me were just really curious.

Mom tousles their hair with a sigh, not liking this but seeming to have had it happen enough to give up on breaking them of this.

MOM

CUT TO:

EXT. THESSALIAN FOREST — AMAZON CAMP — DAY

The fire has been put out and the bedrolls rolled up. Varia writes on a small bit of parchment, covering it entirely. She folds it neatly, then sets it aside. She picks up a messenger pigeon in a cage, and opens it letting the bird rest on her index finger. A few quiet coos keep it calm, as she gets the folded parchment and ties it onto a leg. Then, she raises her hand and the pigeon flies off.

VARIA

(to the bird)

Get on home…

Varia stands, and moves to the rest of her team. Tall is still bound and has been gagged again, and isn’t happy about it. She’s also sporting a large bruise where Varia hit her. Aella is sharpening her sword, while Ilona is working through a drill.

AELLA

All set?

VARIA

Ilona stops her drill with a grin.

ILONA

And troublemaking?

VARIA

You bet.

EXT. AMAZON VILLAGE — DAY

The messenger pigeon flies over, buzzing a building before settling onto a human-made perch with a seed dish. An AMAZON MESSENGER sees this, and carefully removes the message from the bird’s leg without reading it. She strokes the top of the bird’s head with a finger before jogging in the direction of the --

INT. AUDIENCE CHAMBER — DAY

Gabrielle sees the Messenger coming and walks toward her. The messenger hands over the parchment.

GABRIELLE

Thank you…

Gabrielle reads. Her eyes move over it quickly, just skimming at this point. Then, she looks back up at the messenger.

CUT TO:

TRAVEL MONTAGE

FOREST - DAY

A group of about 20 Amazons — all warriors and between the ages of 16 and 35 outfitted for travel — move in very loose formation down a path. Only about half have horses. The women walking are doing so at good speed — one that could not be kept up without intermittent breaks on horseback. Xena and Gabrielle are at the front, Xena on Argo II and Gabrielle on a buckskin mare.

CAMPSITE — NIGHT

A campfire casts its light on our heroes, seated and leaning slightly on one another. They’re smiling, and Gabrielle reaches over to put a stray lock of Xena’s hair back behind an ear. Conversations can be heard in the background.

GRASSLAND — DAY

The grass that dominates the landscape is lush, and comes to about knee level. The Amazon troops keep moving, showing only a bit of fatigue. They are alert anyway, and very much in a state of anticipation as they work their way through.

CAMPSITE — NIGHT

Xena and Gabrielle sleep, the warrior on her back in just the leathers with Gabrielle tucked up at her side. One of her arms goes to the bard’s waist. Gabrielle, contentedly nestled in, has an arm across Xena’s midsection about two inches south of her breasts.

THESSALIAN FOREST — DAY

The Amazons are in slightly tighter formation, with Xena and Gabrielle again at the front on horseback.

GABRIELLE

Xena nods.

XENA

Maybe another half mile along the river.

CUT TO:

EXT. THESSALIAN FOREST — AMAZON CAMP — DAY

The Amazon troops ride/walk into view, seeing the small camp. Aella and Tall are there. Aella is cooking. Tall is still bound and gagged (though from the fabric this one is new), and the bruise has started to turn colors. Xena and Gabrielle dismount, and walk toward Aella.

GABRIELLE

Aella… where are Varia and Ilona?

Xena, in the meantime, is eyeing Tall.

AELLA

GABRIELLE

I get the idea.

XENA

When do they usually return?

Aella nearly rolls her eyes.

AELLA

In time for dinner.

Xena and Gab smirk at one another. Then, Gabrielle turns to address the troops.

GABRIELLE

Let’s get settled in!

The Amazons do start to move, staking out spots with friends and, sometimes, lovers.

CUT TO:

EXT. THESSALIAN FOREST — AMAZON CAMP — SUNDOWN

The Amazons have indeed settled in, enlarging the camp several times over. Some cook, a very few nap, and others are occupied with caring for their gear. Gabrielle walks toward Tall, seating herself on the log beside her. She evaluates the prisoner a moment, then unties the gag.

GABRIELLE

I’m Gabrielle.

TALL

So I’ve heard. I’m Kara. Is there a point to this?

GABRIELLE

The images are grainy, with a monochrome blue tint. An Amazon GIRL of about 13 is fishing while wading at the edge. Her weapon, a sword, lies by a pack in the grass several feet away. A group of about 10 cocky men, between 18 and 25 and dressed as simple villagers, sneak through the surrounding forest. They move closer. She doesn’t see them.

KARA (V.O.)

They caught her down at the river…

The men attack, and the young Amazon starts off holding her own with well-practiced kicks and punches. She manages to maneuver back to her sword and strikes one man down with a vicious slice across the chest. But, muck is thrown in her eyes… when she tries to clear it, one of them grabs her and places a cloth over her mouth. She is unconscious within a few seconds.

KARA (V.O.)

She escaped about a week later…

EXT. RENEGADE AMAZON VILLAGE OUTSKIRTS — FLASHBACK

The young Amazon crawls along, beaten, bloodied, and garbed in a torn and dirty tunic. Kara and the QUEEN are walking, and see this. They run horrified to her side, the Queen taking the girl into her arms maternally. Kara can only offer her some water from a skin.

Kara (V.O)

The Princess…

The scene blends to —

EXT. THESSALIAN FOREST — AMAZON CAMP — SUNDOWN

KARA

Gabrielle is frankly stunned by this story, and has to give her head a small shake before responding.

GABRIELLE

Xena and Gabrielle sit by a campfire, watching the flames. Gabrielle in particular seems to be thinking. She adds a piece of wood, getting a brief cloud of sparks.

GABRIELLE

XENA

Gabrielle chuckles, and lightly bumps shoulders with Xena. They sit in companionable silence for another few moments before Gabrielle looks up at her partner.

GABRIELLE

Tomorrow is going to be tough.

CUT TO:

EXT. THESSALIAN FOREST — RENEGADE AMAZON VILLAGE — DAWN

The village is remarkably quiet, and still a bit dark. Guards patrol the various areas, but their movements are slightly drowsy and no one else seems to be out at this hour. Birds can be heard chirping… a slightly odd variety of species.

Varia’s Amazons have split up into groups of two or three, and sneak quietly into the village. Many of them have added shoulder armor or gauntlets to the usual outfit. They keep to the shadows as much as they can, quietly stalking the renegade guards. Each team soon latches on to a particular target.

When they strike, it is unexpected. A brief struggle by a renegade near the edge of the village ends with her capture. The pair quickly binds and gags her. Then, the stronger of the two half-drags the protesting guard into the forest where she won’t cause any trouble. Once she’s taken care of, they head back into the village.

Another pair, deeper into the village, also briefly exchange blows with the guard they chose before she is subdued. This one is treated a bit more roughly; once properly bound she is knocked out and stuffed behind a craftswoman’s stand.

Yet another group has picked a guard who is more alert and a better fighter. This scuffle takes longer, as she dodges the attacks of Varia’s Amazons. She lets out a yell, to warn her people. One of her attackers gets lucky with a sword thrust to the woman’s side, cutting deeply. She falls, a hand over the wound, eyes closing slowly. A few seconds later, she is dead. The Amazons continue on — the body will be taken care of later. The renegades are beginning to wake up, and join the fray.

Xena, Gabrielle, and Varia move up on a building with an old-style Queen’s Mask displayed over the door. There is faint light from inside, no more than a few candles. They duck behind a patch of large bushes. Xena appears to be listening intently, and draws her sword. Varia and Gabrielle follow suit with sword and sais, respectively. Gabrielle tucks the sais along her forearms.

The Queen appears in the doorway, a sword in hand and a harder expression on her face than was seen in the flashback. In fact, if her hair color or clothing had changed it would be difficult to recognize that they are the same person. She wastes no time in striding out to the pathway, eyes searching for an enemy.

Varia leaves their cover running, followed by Xena and Gabrielle. The Queen evaluates Varia momentarily, before they start to fight. They appear to be evenly matched, trading blow for blow. The younger woman moves, keeping the renegade Queen slightly off balance but setting herself up to tire more quickly.

VARIA

You shouldn’t have attacked those villages…

The Queen scoffs, taking a swing at chest level.

QUEEN

Varia launches an unsuccessful attack, then jumps over a low swipe of the Queen’s blade. She sets up for another try.

GABRIELLE

Stop!

This is unusual enough that Varia and the Queen do. For Varia, it is out of surprise. The Queen just seems a bit amused at the audacity of this unique Amazon. She smirks, and gives her sword a twirl.

QUEEN

Well… another short one.

Gabrielle ignores the comment.

GABRIELLE

I challenge you for Queenship.

She places a hand on the necklace that proves her own status as an Amazon royal. Varia reacts with shock. Xena’s expression is closed, unreadable.

END ACT 2

ACT 3

EXT. RENEGADE AMAZON VILLAGE — IN FRONT OF QUEEN’S HUT- DAWN

The scene is as it was left, a few moments of silence following Gabrielle’s announcement. The Queen takes a closer look at Gabrielle. She is not that worried

QUEEN

I accept… Warriors! Stand down!

She waits a moment to see that her order is obeyed. It is, despite the two sides eyeing each other warily.

VARIA

Hold!

Things seem to relax slightly with both leaders having agreed.

QUEEN

Before we fight, I should know your name.

She says this with a smirk trying to curve her lips, enjoying the look on the Queen’s face as she realizes who the warrior not in Amazon clothing is.

QUEEN

I’m Queen Shera.

VARIA

SHERA

Dead… she proved to be more trouble than she was worth.

Varia starts at this, and Xena is forced to restrain her firmly. Varia shoots a resentful look back at her. Gabrielle has chosen not to rise to the bait, but her tight lips show she is disturbed.

GABRIELLE

We’ll want the body so she can have a proper funeral.

SHERA

Pretty early to be making demands… let’s fight.

GABRIELLE

Staves.

The Amazons who have gathered form a large semi-circle. Gabrielle puts her sais back in her boots. She and Shera move into the center after being handed their weapons. Xena and Varia move into the group, Varia decidedly displeased.

VARIA

What does she think she’s doing?

XENA

Keeping more of her sisters from getting killed.

Gabrielle does a few practice twirls of the staff, basic stuff to loosen up. So does Shera. They wait a moment, then lunge at one another. The crack of the staves hitting is loud, as both women are using close to their full strength. This attempt by Shera to bully the smaller Gabrielle is ineffective, as the bard holds her place.

The Amazons cheer their respective fighters, as Varia and Xena watch. The warrior has not removed her hand from Varia’s shoulder, and it’s unclear whether it’s to keep the younger woman under control or for support.

As the fight grows faster, the staves blur, moving too fast for human eyes to track. Both women obviously are experts, and the fight is even. The rare sound of wood striking flesh is met by a stumble, but no more. Neither has managed to land a strike to a truly vulnerable area.

That changes, however, when a stumble of Shera’s leaves her more off balance than usual. Gabrielle ruthlessly exploits the opportunity, slamming the end of her staff across the other woman’s jaw. Shera loses her staff, and goes down with some spin. She lands hard on her back, grimacing in pain. Gabrielle pounces, straddling the woman’s midsection and holding the grip of her staff just under the Queen’s chin.

Gabrielle breathes heavily, pressing the staff gently into the Queen’s neck, showing what she could do. Shera knows she is beaten.

GABRIELLE

Don’t make me kill you — I don’t like it. Do you yield?

SHERA

I yield, my Queen.

Gabrielle moves off the woman’s midsection, giving her staff a final flourish. Varia’s tribe cheers, while those from Shera’s are uneasy not knowing what this new Queen intends. Shera stands, slowly. Gabrielle turns to address the Amazons.

GABRIELLE

She takes a deep breath, still reeling from the day’s events. She drops the staff, and trudges toward Xena. Varia is impressed by her performance. Gabrielle’s arms are slightly open, and when she reaches her partner she initiates a hug.

XENA

(quietly)

You did it…

GABRIELLE

Yeah…

Varia steps out into the empty semicircle, swallowing once.

VARIA

Xena, Gabrielle, and Varia walk without a visible path. A bit of the village can be seen in the background.

VARIA

So, what’s so special out here?

GABRIELLE

Varia nods acceptance of the bard’s sympathies, but doesn’t trust herself to speak.

XENA

Varia stops, with a sigh. Gabrielle and Xena slow to a halt as well.

VARIA

It’s been good to have you both on this mission.

GABRIELLE

VARIA

GABRIELLE

Because I…?

VARIA

XENA

Damage from the fight has been cleaned up. Torches attached to the buildings light the area, with extra on a slightly raised platform where Varia, Gabrielle, and Xena stand. Every mobile woman of both tribes is assembled before them, a few with bandages and bruises. One has an arm in a sling.

VARIA

Discontented murmurs greet this announcement, from both sides.

VARIA

The group mentality has eased the usual ‘too-tough’ attitude the Amazons cling to, and they cheer. Varia’s Amazons in particular approve. Gabrielle is glad they want her as Queen, but is a bit overwhelmed by it as well. Xena is a hard read, but seems to be both proud of her partner and slightly pensive.

CUT TO:

EXT. AMAZON VILLAGE — OUTSKIRTS — DAY

The group, enlarged once again by the influx of Shera’s women, move into the village. It’s much more diverse as to age and occupation, with a few very injured women being carried on litters and others leaning on friends. Their belongings and a wooden coffin are packed into a pair of wagons. The horse population has also increased dramatically.

The rest of Gabrielle’s tribe awaits. They are composed of a few older women and primarily those under 20. Those women in between are dedicated craftswomen or warriors assigned to stay and defend the village. The Mom and Alexa are among them, watching eagerly for Thalia’s return.

Gabrielle looks at them from horseback, saddened but trying to hide it. She dismounts neatly, as does Xena. Varia has been walking beside them.

The group begins to meld, Shera’s former tribe heading off to the left and Gabrielle’s meeting friends and family. Xena hangs back slightly with Varia as Gabrielle walks toward Mom and Alexa. Realizing what’s going to happen, Varia catches up with the Queen.

MOM

Gabrielle, where’s Thalia?

GABRIELLE

MOM

How did it happen?

VARIA

She reaches out, giving the girl a firm hug. When she’s done, Gabrielle stays bent down a bit to Alexa’s level.

Gabrielle takes a deep breath, as Xena — whose sword and chakram have been set aside — puts their emptied saddlebags back in their spot on the floor. They both seem to be in a sober, though not exactly depressed, mood. Xena turns to face Gabrielle.

XENA

Well, that’s the last of it.

GABRIELLE

She gestures toward it.

XENA

Works.

Gabrielle travels the few steps over to Xena. They hold eye contact for a moment, seeming to have an entire conversation that way. A kiss follows, slow and rather gentle. Both women want a respite from the harsher side of life.

GABRIELLE

Thanks.

XENA

Anytime…

Xena wags her eyebrows. Gabrielle gives a smile.

GABRIELLE

You’re a lech.

XENA

Says the woman with wandering hands.

GABRIELLE

I slipped!

Gabrielle’s excuse doesn’t fool either one of them. The bard gives a slightly guilty smirk.

XENA

That was some nice work today, with that kid.

GABRIELLE

GABRIELLE

Gabrielle walks over to the desk. She turns the chair towards the middle of the room so she can continue talking with Xena, and sits.

GABRIELLE

And, that is?

Xena takes a few steps closer to the bard.

XENA

We adopt her ourselves.

CUT TO:

EXT. AMAZON VILLAGE — IN FRONT OF QUEEN’S HUT — DAY

A sizable group of Amazons have gathered in the open area. Fewer weapons are in evidence, having been replaced by a group of Amazons drumming. On the patio/balcony, Xena and Gabrielle stand on opposite sides of Alexa. Gabrielle bends slightly toward the girl.

GABRIELLE

(quietly)

You ready?

Alexa nods, biting her lower lip.

XENA

You’re gonna do just fine.

After a few more moments, the drumming stops. The Amazons look expectantly toward their Queen.

GABRIELLE

Gabrielle pauses, giving time for any person who doesn’t want the adoption to speak. No one does.

GABRIELLE

Xena picks the girl up, setting her on a hip. Gabrielle sets a hand on the girl’s shoulder. Varia steps up onto the patio/balcony, from her place at the front of the crowd.

The Amazons show their support by cheering, but it is less fervent than when Gabrielle was recognized as Queen. They don’t have any issue with Alexa becoming Princess — most of them like the kid — but she is still a child.

CUT TO:

OLD GABRIELLE, dressed in an ankle-length green tunic belted at the waist, Queen’s necklace, and gold band on her ring finger, sits at her desk writing. She is in her mid-sixties. The structure is the same, but the decorations are different. There is a lighter, even slightly playful air. Some memorabilia from their travels as young women is also displayed.

OLD GABRIELLE (V.O)

She glances out the window, expression growing peaceful a moment before she realizes what’s going on outside.

OLD GABRIELLE

Xena! She’s only two — she can’t ride on her own yet!

OLD XENA (O.S.)

Well, she’s doing it!

Gabrielle sighs.

OLD GABRIELLE

Just be careful!

OLD XENA (O.S.)

The door opens, admitting ADULT ALEXA. Now in her late forties, and in a less revealing version of Amazon leathers, she is still a handsome woman. She carries a large basket of food.

ALEXA

Writing in your journal, mom?

Alexa walks over to the desk. Gabrielle looks up, with a smile.

OLD GABRIELLE

Just getting some things down.

OLD XENA enters, now in her mid-seventies, one finger serving as a grip for two-year old Zoë. The child is quite alert, looking to each of the adults in turn.

OLD XENA

Zoë was having fun with the horses…

Alexa smirks, knowing how her mom is, and sets the basket down on the desk. She heads over to her granddaughter and picks the child up.

ALEXA

Ah… that right, baby?

ZOE

Go fast!

Zoë claps her hands, delighted. Xena looks chagrined.

OLD GABRIELLE

(muttered)

It’s contagious, I tell you…

Xena is not really repentant.

OLD XENA

Sorry.

OLD GABRIELLE

Alexa reclaims the basket. Then, she and Xena start to lay things out on a fur on the floor while keeping Zoë occupied. Gabrielle settles back in her chair and continues writing.

OLD GABRIELLE (V.O.)

She stops again to ink her quill, then continues.

OLD GABRIELLE (V.O.)

FADE TO BLACK