by
Editor
Bleu Gato
Xena: Warrior Princess is copyright MCA/Universal and Renaissance Pictures. All original content of Xena: Warrior Princess 2.0 is copyrighted by the author and is not to be used or modified without permission. All rights reserved.
Contact: bard@xena2.com
Blog: www.xena2.com/blog
TEASER
FADE IN:
EXT. WILDERNESS OPEN FIELD EARLY AFTERNOON
Xena and Gabrielle are making their way thru sea of knee-length grass. Argo follows on lead rope.
Gabrielle, speculating
GABRIELLE
Figure a year before it is safe to travel the roads and stop at villages.
Xena, impatient
XENA
Talk faster.
GABRIELLE
I am the Queen of bards but there is one of me. Fear not, I have a plan.
XENA
Uh-oh.
GABRIELLE
The Royal Academy of Bards has an annual contest for new talent. The prize is a shelf in the grand library for my scrolls. They will be copied and sent to poleis across Greece. New Xena legend grows overnight; our immortality.
XENA
Hello ego. What's the catch?
Gabrielle, grinning
GABRIELLE
The audience is armed with vegetables and fruit. Flying stones, pottery and sandals are not unheard of. There are some awful bad poets and singers out there.
Xena, whistling
XENA
Rough crowd.
Gabrielle, hopefully
GABRIELLE
Only one death in all that time.
XENA
Audience or artist?
GABRIELLE
Storyteller.
XENA
Good luck and wear armor.
Gabrielle, warmly
GABRIELLE
My hero will protect me.
Xena, sadly
XENA
I wait outside the city wall. The most eligible neck in Greece, you know.
Gabrielle, smiling mischievously
GABRIELLE
You are part of the audience, friend, courtesy of my makeover.
XENA
Great. I will be the one throwing sharp and pointy things.
Gabrielle, sighing
GABRIELLE
Xena, I plan to vanquish my competition with words, not a secret assassin in the crowd.
Xena, pouting
XENA
You take the fun out of the arts.
Gabrielle, tempting
GABRIELLE
I will buy you lots of rotten veggies and fruit.
Xena, bargaining
XENA
Just one kid?
GABRIELLE
No.
XENA
Stones?
GABRIELLE
No.
XENA
Underwraps?
GABRIELLE
What? Who are you going Xena!
Xena, innocently
XENA
What of me would you like to end up on you?
Gabrielle raises an eyebrow.
Xena, clarifying hastily, flattery dripping from her tongue
XENA
In praise and adoration for your divine talents and inevitable victory.
GABRIELLE
Riiiiiight. Flowers, the ones you have not worn.
Xena, teasing
XENA
I have to smuggle them in somehow.
GABRIELLE
You don't have to smuggle them in there.
XENA
Have and want are two different things.
GABRIELLE
Your want is going to meet something sharp.
XENA
Promises, promises.
Gabrielle starts to answer, when they see a MAN come over the raise running towards them. He has leather armor and no weapons. The MAN is covered in dirt and blood and he keeps looking back. He does not see them at first. Three MOUNTED SOLDIERS appear behind him when he gets halfway to Xena and Gabrielle. He finally spots them and makes a straight line for them.
MAN, desperately
MAN
Help!
Gabrielle notches the arrow but holds her fire. Xena takes the chakram out. The MAN runs up to them and hides behind them. The MOUNTED SOLDIERS slow down and stop a short distance away. The MOUNTED SOLDIERS take in the two heavily armed women uneasily and don't look ready for a fight.
MOUNTED SOLDIER, evenly
MOUNTED SOLDIER
The man you protect is a rebel wanted by the King.
GABRIELLE
I'm Gabrielle and this is Xena. One man's rebel is another's husband or father.
MOUNTED SOLDIERS relax on hearing their names and now there is something else in their bearing.
MOUNTED SOLDIER, respectfully
MOUNTED SOLDIER
Gods be praised. We were on patrol when we found a few of Black Wolf's scouts making camp. We had a tip they were in the area preparing for an attack. This one runs while the others cover for him, so he is important. Xena, make him talk with that pinch of yours.
Xena looks at Gabrielle who smiles. Xena shakes her head ruefully and then makes a motion with her head at the soldiers. Gabrielle nods in agreement and makes similar motion towards the MAN. Xena nods back and then mounts Argo and heads for the soldiers. Gabrielle puts the arrow back and slings her bow and picks up the staff. She turns and faces the MAN. Both the MAN and the MOUNTED SOLDIERS watch this silent exchange with amazement.
Gabrielle, cheerfully
GABRIELLE
Xena will talk to the King and you will take me to Black Wolf.
MAN watches Xena say a few brief words to MOUNTED SOLDIERS and then they ride off together. He looks back at Gabrielle, unsure and then regains his courage.
MAN, defiantly
MAN
My loyalty is unwavering, due your worst.
Gabrielle, regretfully
GABRIELLE
They all say that. Then I pinch them, the screaming starts, then gurgling, then death throes and then it gets even worse and the gasping and the bulging eyes and the spittle flying everywhere
Gabrielle moves ever closer to the MAN as she speaks, wiggling her fingers suggestively. The MAN is close to panic, fear vivid in his eyes.
MAN, scared
MAN
Wait!
Gabrielle puts her fingers together, on both hands, copying Xena exactly.
Gabrielle, wistfully
GABRIELLE
Too bad Xena didn't show me how to remove it. Ain't right for a man to go out like that.
MAN, panicking
MAN
Anything! Anything! Spare me!
He drops to his knees in front of her. Gabrielle relaxes her fingers and pats him on the head.
Gabrielle, conversationally
GABRIELLE
What's your name?
MAN, nervously
MAN
D Diomedes.
Gabrielle offers him a hand and helps him to his feet. She motions with her head for him to take the lead and he starts walking ahead of her. Gabrielle follows behind him, keeping her distance.
Gabrielle, to herself
GABRIELLE
Black Wolf, meet black sheep of Potidaea.
Diomedes turns and looks at her over his shoulder.
DIOMEDES
Did you say something?
GABRIELLE
Baaaa.
Diomedes looks at her as if she lost her mind.
FADE OUT:
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
EXT. WILDERNESS ROAD AFTERNOON
Xena rides with ten MOUNTED SOLDIERS along a dusty road. Their LEADER comes alongside her.
LEADER, curious
LEADER
The woman who was with you, she went to meet the rebels. Was that wise?
Xena, unconcerned
XENA
Gabrielle is a one bard army with the voice that could charm the Sirens.
LEADER, unsure
LEADER
Black Wolf has three dozen men it is true then?
Xena, intrigued
XENA
What have you heard of us?
LEADER, recalling
LEADER
Taverns ring with tales of your heroic deeds; merchants speak of your good works in villages and towns they pass. Gabrielle gives voice to your legend and creates her own. Yet Xena, there are dark rumors about her. Death is coming for Black Wolf and the rebels tonight, right?
Xena's eyes flash with anger.
Xena, icily
XENA
Gabrielle is light, truth and love. Hold your tongue or taste steel.
LEADER, scared
LEADER
No offense, great warrior. I apologize.
He quickly moves away as Xena continues to glare with intent of bodily harm. Her demeanor relaxes after he leaves.
Xena, concerned
XENA
I am going to have a talk with her.
CUT TO:
INT. CASTLE KING'S COUNCIL CHAMBERS EARLY EVENING
King Koulos is a man in his late fifties, with gray fading hair and the bearing of career soldier. He is dressed in armor and there is no jewelry of office except a large, ornate ring on one hand. Age has stooped him slightly but the eyes are sharp and alive with intelligence. The room is dominated by a large table and the chairs surrounding it are all the same. The walls are lined with weapons and hunting trophies. King Koulos stands by the window, looking out. The door opens and Xena enters. She strides in and stops, crossing her arms and standing in complete indifference to her surrounding, a woman alone and as solid as Mt. Olympus. King Koulos turns to her and they regard each other in silence, a battle of wills. King Koulos is the first to break the silence after a lengthy moment.
King Koulos, directly to the point
KING KOULOS
Welcome hero. I am old and not long for fighting. Years of war carved out this Kingdom and now it is threatened again. Your services are needed.
Xena, joking
XENA
There are no old soldiers in Greece, only dead ones.
King Koulos, wearily
KING KOULOS
Soon enough. The battles took their toll on the populace in the forms of higher taxes, recruits, and numerous casualties. The without is secure and within now rages. Xena, lifetime of work is being torn apart by small minds that live in the past and can't envision the future.
XENA
You know Black Wolf?
KING KOULOS
He comes from the one of the outlying villages. His entire family was killed in the raid. His men nurse similar wounds. Please understand, I protected the core and not the whole Kingdom during troubles and campaigns.
Xena, nodding
XENA
Triage.
King Koulos, relieved
KING KOULOS
You understand.
Xena, sympathetically
XENA
I am an old soldier too.
King Koulos, beseechingly
KING KOULOS
I buried two sons and the third, my heir, bears the scars of my sacrifice. Now you are here and your lieutenant is scouting the rebels. You are involved. Help me. Help us.
XENA
She is my friend. You know, we might not side with you.
King Koulos, insisting
KING KOULOS
I am on the right side of this.
Xena, with finality
XENA
Gabrielle decides.
King Koulos, contemplatively
KING KOULOS
I see the stories leave out much. Offer her my life for peace.
Xena, stunned
XENA
She won't accept that. Your judgment is with Hades.
KING KOULOS
The truth, Xena; I was honest with you. Who is this woman and why do you follow her and not the other way around? She is no sidekick; first the earlier incident with one of my soldiers and your words now. I want to know who determines my fate.
XENA
You do. Gabrielle walks the path of greater good; she is a hero. It seems she kept her part out of the tales. I will take our conversation and first hand observations back to her.
KING KOULOS
She changed you.
XENA
She has that effect on people. Koulos, trust her heart. I do.
KING KOULOS
I see. From one soldier to another, tell me either way the dice lands. I want to see the blade that takes my life.
XENA
You deserve no less. On my honor.
KING KOULOS
You have the run of the entire place and all are required to answer your questions. Quarters have been prepared for you and I request your company at dinner tonight.
XENA
Gabrielle is the talker.
King Koulos, smiling
KING KOULOS
Great food, excellent wine, and lively entertainment. Company is not bad either, thou I tend to ramble on about old battles.
XENA
You had my attention at food.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS BLACK WOLF'S CAMP EVENING
Deep in the wildest part of old forest is a large clearing. Houses of wood and tent parts are hastily thrown together; only the largest one is an actual tent. There are archers stationed in posts constructed up in the trees. Most of the men have no armor and those that do are of poor quality. Weapons look ancient and worn out too. The whole place has a ragged, desperate quality to it.
The REBELS cast weary glances at Gabrielle's unescorted approach yet none interfere. In her equipment, bearing, and arms she stands out starkly. Diomedes leads her to the command tent and motions her to wait where she stopped. He then opens the flap and sticks his head in. Low voices are exchanged. Meanwhile, one of the REBELS comes over to Gabrielle. REBEL, interest evident, flirting
REBEL
We hiring pretty mercenaries now?
GABRIELLE
No, I am the new cook.
REBEL
Last kitchen duty that tough?
Gabrielle, beaming
GABRIELLE
I am Xena's chef.
REBEL's eyes grow large with fear and he takes off without further word back to his friends. As word spreads who she is and, more importantly, who she is with, the atmosphere changes to one of tension and apprehension. Furtive and nervous glances are cast her way. Shortly, Diomedes returns and takes in the new camp mood.
Diomedes, acknowledging
DIOMEDES
Word is out.
GABRIELLE
One young man's fancy turned to fear.
DIOMEDES
You have a way with words.
GABRIELLE
You would know.
Diomedes shoots her a guarded, troubled look and points to the tent doorway. Approaching quickly, Gabrielle moves the flap aside and enters.
CUT TO:
INT. BLACK WOLF'S CAMP MAIN TENT EVENING
The tent is sparse, with large table and chairs, few wooden chests and small straw pallet with some blankets on top. The sole occupant is a stocky man in his early forties, with a weathered face, callused hands, and simple clothes and demeanor of a farmer. He stands up from his meal as Gabrielle enters and moves towards her. She drops her staff and bow with quiver at the side of the door.
Black Wolf, resigned
BLACK WOLF
Figured if you wanted to kill us, we would be dead already. Go on, tell your piece.
Gabrielle walks right by him and sits down at his seat. A dagger appears in her hand and she cuts off a piece of bread and another of cheese. Combining them, she starts munching happily. Black Wolf is staring at her, completely lost for words.
Gabrielle, informatively
GABRIELLE
Born in Potidaea, a farmer's daughter. Simple folks with simple tastes.
She toasts him with her sandwich which is growing smaller by the second.
GABRIELLE
Complements to the baker.
BLACK WOLF
We robbed the cheese from a merchant caravan.
Gabrielle makes another sandwich.
GABRIELLE
Good job.
Black Wolf laughs.
Black Wolf, wonderingly
BLACK WOLF
You are one of us; you shared our lot.
GABRIELLE
Born in the dirt
BLACK WOLF
to dirt we return.
He sits in the chair opposite her. Gabrielle hands him his spoon and bowl of meat stew from her side and he resumes eating, pausing only to get a piece of bread.
BLACK WOLF
You are nothing what I expected.
GABRIELLE
Twenty foot tall with fangs?
BLACK WOLF
Yes, there is that.
GABRIELLE
Xena and I wonder the countryside helping ordinary people. I count you among them.
BLACK WOLF
Why is she with the King?
GABRIELLE
There are two sides to every story.
BLACK WOLF
Which one are you on?
Gabrielle, simply
GABRIELLE
The truth.
Gabrielle locks eyes with him and after a moment he shakes his head, as if to clear it. She leans forward.
Gabrielle, compassionately
GABRIELLE
Who did you lose?
Black Wolf does not answer, as his eyes slowly fill with memories and tears. He stops eating and sets his hands on the table, nervously twitching and wrangling. A set of warm hands gently captures his and he appears surprised to see Gabrielle holding his.
BLACK WOLF
I remember war as far back as a child. Bandits and slavers are one thing, this was another. The King was bent on building the next Athens. We wanted to be left alone and scratch our living from the land. Instead we were caught in his mad dream. Warlords and their like take their tribute and leave us be. He was worse. Half the villages in this region are gone, dust and bones, the price for his ambition. He did what he set out to do and we paid the price.
GABRIELLE
There was a better way?
BLACK WOLF
Life of a peasant is not easy, you know that. Warlords don't destroy what they can exploit. Once we were King's they did.
Black Wolf's face breaks and tears rain on the rough wooden surface of the table. Gabrielle lets him collect himself, squeezing his hands in support.
Black Wolf, anguished
BLACK WOLF
It was an early spring day and I was in the fields. One moment all was calm, normal; next second fire and screams. They cut down everyone and torched the village. Few were saved when a patrol of soldiers showed up. I wish I was not among them. Still do.
Gabrielle, softly
GABRIELLE
Fate left you.
BLACK WOLF
Alone. My parents, my children, my wife. Flora.
Black Wolf, in heartbroken whisper
BLACK WOLF
Alone
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
INT. BLACK WOLF'S CAMP GUEST TENT/HUT NIGHT
The small room has a wooden chest and a straw pallet. Gabrielle sets her weapons at the sides of the bed and lies down without taking off her armor. She starts to doze off when a sound catches her ear and she moves instantly, throwing knife almost flying at her target. Almost. On the chest sits a tall woman in golden armor ending in leather skirt under intricately crafted belt. She is calm and majestic, with long brown hair, light olive skin, and gray/blue eyes. Her covered shield leans against her leg. Aegis. Quick glance at the eyes confirms Gabrielle's suspicions. This must be the Goddess Athena.
Gabrielle, sighing
GABRIELLE
Marriage or bed Olympics?
ATHENA
Neither.
GABRIELLE
Pity. I must be losing it.
ATHENA
I can see why Ares run you thru.
Gabrielle, conspiratorially
GABRIELLE
He has little boy issues; had to use a sword.
Athena laughs.
ATHENA
He does and your wit is wicked. I like you already.
Gabrielle, smiling enticingly
GABRIELLE
The feeling is mutual.
ATHENA
Gabrielle, are you trying to seduce me?
GABRIELLE
Trying? Doing.
ATHENA
I am the Goddess of war and technology, not love.
She stands up to her full height, setting the shield against the chest. She turns around slowly in a circle, giving a full view to appreciative Gabrielle.
Gabrielle, exclaiming admiringly
GABRIELLE
Hello Goddess!
Athena, grinning
ATHENA
Flattery will get you nowhere.
Gabrielle, sincerely
GABRIELLE
That was genuine sentiment.
Athena finishes her display and moves towards Gabrielle only to be stopped as Gabrielle puts an arm out, halting her with a hand on Athena's breastplate.
Gabrielle, smoothly
GABRIELLE
Strict bard policy. Look but don't touch.
Athena looks down at the Gabrielle's hand between her metal covered breasts then back up at Gabrielle.
Athena, teasing
ATHENA
Oh, there is definitely touching.
Gabrielle, flirting
GABRIELLE
Of the keep your distance kind.
Athena lightly strokes Gabrielle's arm holding her back.
ATHENA
No, it's not.
Gabrielle laughs and taps on Athena chest plate with her knuckles.
Gabrielle, playfully
GABRIELLE
Knock, knock. Come on out you two.
Athena takes a step back. Her expression turns somber.
Athena, speculatively
ATHENA
How far were you going to take it?
GABRIELLE
To a satisfactory conclusion for both of us.
ATHENA
Later. I promise. Now for the real reason of my visit.
Gabrielle saunters over to Athena, throws her arms around Athena's neck and drawing her head towards her, kisses her. She looks deeply into her eyes as they linger sensually, passion building and leaving them both breathless. They break and both take a moment to recover.
GABRIELLE
Don't promise, deliver. Now, you were saying
ATHENA
Gabrielle, you are as bad as Xena. Seducing me with your wanton charms.
Gabrielle, slyly
GABRIELLE
Is it working?
Athena, admitting shyly
ATHENA
Definitely.
GABRIELLE
Good. Your business?
Athena chuckles.
ATHENA.
Forgotten.
Gabrielle gives her a look and Athena surrenders.
ATHENA
All right. Ares is behind the King Koulos' conquests. Ares revels in mindless and savage slaughter without purpose or end.
GABRIELLE
You are the kinder and gentler kind of war God of war?
ATHENA
Do you believe in just war?
Gabrielle, thoughtfully
GABRIELLE
Someone needs to do violence to Ares worshippers or they will run the entire world. Into the scorched and salted ground.
Pause.
Gabrielle, considering and deciding
GABRIELLE
Yes, I do if it serves the greater good.
ATHENA
Civilization requires an Aegis.
Gabrielle, nodding
GABRIELLE
Defensive war, based on cunning and superior arms.
ATHENA
It is not enough to reject Ares and think peaceful thoughts. You have to take out Aegis and do something with it.
Gabrielle, articulating her belief
GABRIELLE
Some things are worth fighting, killing, or dying for.
ATHENA
You are a hero. You choose to protect life and have not taken it.
GABRIELLE
My actions and decisions led to deaths and there is blood on my hands.
ATHENA
Do you accept the price?
GABRIELLE
Yes, with a heavy heart and troubled conscience.
ATHENA
Hercules and you are alike on that.
GABRIELLE
He one of yours?
ATHENA
He is his own, as you are. Hercules works for the common good.
GABRIELLE
Plato, right?
ATHENA
Not quite. Recognizing and furthering shared goals yet leaving individuals to pursue their own.
GABRIELLE
Gods are not big on us mortals making our own fate. Why not Xena?
ATHENA
Xena is calculated chaos and destruction. She picked Ares.
GABRIELLE
Xena chose me.
ATHENA
You chose each other.
GABRIELLE
There is serious doubt whether that was intentional.
Athena, honestly
ATHENA
You gift does not work on us but your heart knows the truth. Look at me Gabrielle.
Gabrielle and Athena lock eyes.
Athena, truthfully
ATHENA
Neither Gods nor Fates bound you together.
Gabrielle, quietly
GABRIELLE
I sense the truth in you. Thank you.
ATHENA
When I call, will you answer?
GABRIELLE
I wholeheartedly approve your recruiting process. Sweet talk and bed sports.
ATHENA
I am not looking for a Champion but a fellow traveler on parallel path. The visit was all business. Now it is more.
Gabrielle, firmly
GABRIELLE
It remains my choice.
ATHENA
Yes to both. You are in control of your fate.
Gabrielle extends her hand and they clasp forearms.
GABRIELLE
We have a partnership.
Gabrielle takes off her armor and looks at Athena.
GABRIELLE
There is still the matter of that promise
Athena kicks her boots off and removes the belt and armor, leaving her in short sleeveless tunic that barely covers the upper thighs and clings tenaciously to her body, revealing lack of unwraps under it.
ATHENA
Does this deliver?
GABRIELLE
Can I call on other Gods?
Athena, coyly
ATHENA
Now yes, only Athena later.
Gabrielle raises her eyes to the ceiling.
Gabrielle, exclaiming
GABRIELLE
Sweet Aphrodite!
Gabrielle returns her gaze to Athena.
Gabrielle, smiling warmly
GABRIELLE
I will need lots of hands-on time for thorough evaluation.
ATHENA
The moon is young.
CUT TO:
INT. BLACK WOLF'S CAMP MAIN TENT MORNING
Black Wolf sits at the table, having finished breakfast. Another portion is laid out across from him. The flap opens and Gabrielle strides in, heading straight for her meal.
Gabrielle, appreciatively
GABRIELLE
Morning. You learned quickly that when I am involved, food is the first casualty.
Black Wolf notices something is different about her and it takes him a moment to figure out what, despite it staring him right in the eyes. Gabrielle is wearing not her usual leather armor, but steel one. It now covers her shoulders fully as well. It is not fancy, closer to utilitarian, with no ornamentation or insignia. The dull surface projects strength and authority. Leather armor skirt extends over the legs to lower thighs. This is a warrior's armor. Black Wolf realizes he is gawking and brings his eyes back to Gabrielle's face.
Gabrielle, between bites
GABRIELLE
You know, there might be another wife in your future if a young woman still catches your eye.
BLACK WOLF
I know better than to dance with you. You were born a peasant but now walk with the Gods.
Gabrielle, mysteriously
GABRIELLE
You don't know half the story.
BLACK WOLF
Flora was the one. First time she smiled and looked at me, I was hers.
GABRIELLE
People we love pass to the other side. The older we get the more we lose and then it is us on Charon's boat. Life continues; you should too.
BLACK WOLF
You are too young to understand. You speak of concepts without firsthand experience.
GABRIELLE
I saw Death close enough to feel the heat from her candle and chill from her body. A God foretold of my fall on this path I walk. Still I go on.
BLACK WOLF
That is madness.
GABRIELLE
It would be easy to return home and marry my betrothed. Settle down and raise children. Live the hard but normal life as was my assigned fate.
BLACK WOLF
What stops you?
GABRIELLE
I forge my own destiny. You belong on the land, with your hands in the dirt not around a sword. Your men are farmers and craftsmen, barely able to point the right end of the weapon toward the enemy. I was born to fight and events and hard work shaped my body and will into a finely crafted blade. Your fate was to work the fields and raise a family. To each a purpose.
BLACK WOLF
There is nothing left.
GABRIELLE
What is your future now?
BLACK WOLF
We bring down the King and his son. Justice will be done.
GABRIELLE
And then?
BLACK WOLF
We will be free.
Gabrielle, convincingly
GABRIELLE
You will be a murderer with blood on your hands and nothing left. Same as now, except with bodies on your conscience.
BLACK WOLF
He has to pay.
GABRIELLE
Who killed you family?
BLACK WOLF
He did.
GABRIELLE
No, the warlord destroyed your village. Who killed the warlord?
Black Wolf, pensively
BLACK WOLF
The King. He tracked him down and ended him. It does not change things.
GABRIELLE
Justice was done and you were avenged.
Black wolf, stubbornly
BLACK WOLF
The King must die.
GABRIELLE
Is the unified Kingdom as it stands now better or worse than the collection of independent villages in the past?
Black Wolf, quickly
BLACK WOLF
Worse.
GABRIELLE
You are lying.
Black Wolf, angrily
BLACK WOLF
You have no right to judge me!
GABRIELLE
And you can?
Black Wolf, with hatred
BLACK WOLF
Yes. The King is the reason I lost everything and it falls to me and others to see that all he built is gone.
GABRIELLE
At last, the truth.
Gabrielle stands up from her finished breakfast.
Gabrielle, authoritatively
GABRIELLE
The price was long paid. The past is that and the King will answer for his crimes. You have a chance for new life. Flora married a good man and I see him here, sitting in front of me. Don't let her memory become twisted by hate. Don't let the love you shared end with her death. She waits for you with your children in Elysian fields. I will give you a choice tomorrow: damnation or salvation.
Gabrielle moves next to him and stops. She puts a hand on his shoulder and squeezes.
Gabrielle, kindly
GABRIELLE
Open your heart again.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
EXT. WILDERNESS OPEN FIELD LATE AFTERNOON
Xena is waiting next to Argo as a lone figure approaches. She recognizes Gabrielle but cannot place the armor she is wearing. Gabrielle strolls up to her, her regular armor carried on her back.
Gabrielle, cheerfully
GABRIELLE
For those times when you absolutely, positively must not become a sieve despite sharp objects heading in your direction with bad intent. You like?
Xena, instantly concerned after taking a closer look
XENA
Gabrielle, that's Hephaestus' work.
GABRIELLE
Gift from Athena. You could say I charmed her right out of her underwraps. Course she was not wearing any.
XENA
This is serious.
GABRIELLE
I spent the night with her.
Xena, brusquely
XENA
Would you share that with me without the armor to give it away?
GABRIELLE
Play nice.
Xena takes a deep breath and sits down in the grass. Gabrielle sits down across from her and opens some pouches. She spreads freshly collected leaves and places wild fruits and nuts on them.
Gabrielle, warmly
GABRIELLE
Peace offering.
Xena begins to mechanically eat the selection in front of her.
XENA
It's hard, feels like a gut punch.
GABRIELLE
I'm sorry.
XENA
Don't mean to guilt, I know we have an agreement.
GABRIELLE
Xena, my stomach was in knots the entire walk; went foraging for goodies to assuage my conscience. I knew you would take it personally and it was eating me inside. Do understand I do not regret last night. I don't like what it does to you but I will not be alone on some nights. You will have to accept that in time.
Pause. Gabrielle, softening the blow
GABRIELLE
How about I share some censored details and give you a massage this evening. Not responsible for any dreams you might have afterwards.
Xena raises an eyebrow inquisitively.
Gabrielle, tempting
GABRIELLE
Athena made a tub with hot water appear. Poof.
Xena, intrigued
XENA
I love those. She made anything else appear?
Gabrielle, amused
GABRIELLE
Xena, if you were with her nothing would happen because you would spend entire night in that tub. And you don't share.
Xena, dreamily
XENA
I am in love with Athena. And I do share.
Gabrielle, smiling
GABRIELLE
You are in love with her tub. Autolycus could not get thru the defenses you put around your private bath time at the inn. Hot water hog.
Xena finishes the rest of the food, leaving one piece of fruit for Gabrielle, who gives her a triumphant look. Xena points at the lonely berry in defense.
XENA
I'm sharing. See?
Gabrielle shakes her head and eats the survivor.
GABRIELLE
Truce?
XENA
Truce.
Xena takes out a map of the area and spreads it out on the now empty leaves, pointing out places as she goes.
XENA
King Koulos and thirty soldiers are meeting us here this evening. They suspect the rebels have a base in this old growth. We are here and if we leave soon, we will meet them around midnight.
GABRIELLE
Hundred men could go into that wood and not one come out.
XENA
We have you.
GABRIELLE
True. What did you learn at the castle?
XENA
The King and his family bled for this land. They created peace at the point of the sword and a lot of ill will among the people in the process. However, most are tired of war and want to enjoy the hard won gains. Region is stable and secure from outside interference. Commerce is picking up and caravans more frequent. Until Black Wolf started attacking them and ambushing local garrisons. Now there is talk of civil war.
GABRIELLE
What do you think?
XENA
The King is approaching final judgment; he will join his two sons shortly. He loves the land and the people and is willing to die for them. He is a good man who lived a life of hard choices. Gabrielle, he created something, a legacy written in blood, sure, but one that offers a bright future to his descendants. They can build a polis that will stand the test of time if they give peace and prosperity a chance.
GABRIELLE
Black Wolf wants heads to roll; the rebels all do. They paid taxes and supported the King with men and supplies, yet in their hour of need he abandoned them. Their rage runs deep and their hate compels them to destroy the King's legacy in a blind, self-defeating fury.
XENA
Can you reach him?
GABRIELLE
In time. He closed his heart to love.
Xena, quietly
XENA
So did I. For a time.
GABRIELLE
No, you became someone else. A dark being devoid of positive emotion or humanity. That focus on self and moral freedom made you the greatest warrior in Greece. It will always be a part of you.
XENA
You don't believe that.
GABRIELLE
Ares has Fear, Terror, and Strife as his divine attendants. You joined him willingly.
Xena, upset
XENA
Why are you saying those things?
Gabrielle, gently
GABRIELLE
I see the truth in you. You can lie to yourself; you can no longer lie to me. I know you.
Xena cries a wounded sound and stifles it with effort.
Gabrielle, continuing
GABRIELLE
There are two of you. The young Xena has emerged and is fighting dark Xena for control. What happened to you eleven years ago?
Long silence descends. Tears start falling down Xena's face as the past threatens to rush back.
Xena, mercilessly shoving the emotions back down, trembling
XENA
leave it. Let it be.
Gabrielle draws her into a hug and Xena returns it. Xena stops shaking after a moment.
Xena, sighing
XENA
Don't change Gabrielle.
Gabrielle, sadly
GABRIELLE
I caused you pain. Again.
XENA
I refuse to see what is plain. You refuse to accept a lie. You hold me honest.
Gabrielle, hopefully
GABRIELLE
Dark Xena is the sword and young Xena is the heart that wields it; two parts of a whole. That is your future.
Xena, smiling thru tears
XENA
I like that fate.
Gabrielle breaks the hug, reaches up and wipes the Xena's tears with her hand.
Gabrielle, softly
GABRIELLE
It has possibilities.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS FOREST MORNING
The SOLDIERS are resting, ten of them with bows stationed around the perimeter, gazing outwards. One SOLDIER drops his bow as a Gabrielle appears silently right next to him and his scream is only just stopped by her hand over his mouth. The other SOLDIERS sigh in relief as they recognize her. She makes her way over to Xena and the King.
GABRIELLE
Couple roving guards, we will pass by and collect them on the way in. Five archers in trees around main camp, I will set ours in pairs to counter them.
Gabrielle turns to the King.
GABRIELLE
What's your relationship with Ares?
Xena raises an eyebrow.
The King looks surprised.
King Koulos, guiltily
KING KOULOS
Over. I finally figured out he was only interested in prolonging the fighting. I consolidated my gains, secured the borders and stopped campaigning outside the Kingdom.
Gabrielle considers this for a moment and then looks at Xena.
XENA
You decided.
GABRIELLE
Yes, for the greater good.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS BLACK WOLF'S CAMP NOON
Xena and Gabrielle emerge from the forest and King Koulos walks between them. He is unarmed and without armor. The REBELS' startled cries of surprise and warning give way to loud cheers in short order.
REBELS
Alarm!
Intruders!
Wait!
The King?!
One REBEL runs up to main tent and gives the arriving news. The trio head in that direction and enter.
CUT TO:
INT. BLACK WOLF'S CAMP MAIN TENT - NOON
The flap opens and Xena, Gabrielle and King come in. Black Wolf stands at the far side of the table, hands on the surface. His eyes fix on the King and harden. Gabrielle grabs Xena by the shoulder and looks at her.
Gabrielle, gravely
GABRIELLE
Whatever happens, don't react.
Xena nods in agreement and visibly relaxes. Gabrielle takes the King by the elbow and leads him halfway to Black Wolf. She motions with her head for Black Wolf to come over and he does, not taking his eyes from the King.
Gabrielle addresses King Koulos.
Gabrielle, evenly
GABRIELLE
Tell him.
King Koulos, to Black Wolf
KING KOULOS
I built this Kingdom at great personal cost. Spurred by Ares and my own pride, I overextended my reach and you among many others bear the scars of my mistakes. Now as I hear the footsteps of Death approaching, I look back on my life and reflect. I am not sorry for what was created. I am sorry for the means to achieve it. I love this land and my people, including you. You and your men have a choice of land in inner villages and funds and animals to start again. I don't want and expect your forgiveness. I am here to face the past and I ask you to show the same courage. As I enter the twilight, you are given a second chance.
Gabrielle steps in front of the King and locks gazes with Black Wolf.
Gabrielle, softly
GABRIELLE
Choose. New life and reunion with Flora and the children in the afterlife; eternity alone in the darkness.
Gabrielle walks back and stands next to Xena. Silence falls in the tent. Black Wolf is struggling with himself, so close to the target of his misery. King Koulos faces him with quiet dignity, arms spread at his sides, and an expression of calm on his face. King Koulos is a man at peace with himself.
After a period Black Wolf reaches a decision. His sets his jaw firmly and draws his sword. Xena twitches visibly but does not move, tight reins of discipline holding her body still. Gabrielle watches Xena closely, ignoring the others.
Black Wolf, choking on words
BLACK WOLF
Forgive me Flora.
With a swift motion he drives the sword thru the chest of his hatred. King Koulos slumps to the floor, dead. Two pairs of eyes focus on him then turn to each other.
With sorrow and pain in her eyes Gabrielle looks Xena in the face and nods. She turns around and leaves. Xena closes on the Black Wolf, stepping over the body and grabbing his wrist which is now holding a dagger. A quick twist and applied pressure and the bones break with a crunch; Xena removes the blade. She grabs him by the face with her left hand and shoves him against a tent pole, lifting him on his toes. Remorseless eyes gaze at Black Wolf and the dagger moves to his throat and opens it from ear to ear.
Xena, coldly
XENA
Welcome to Tartarus.
She drops the knife and the twitching body and walks over to the bowl with water, cleaning her hands and face. That done she steps to King Koulos' body and removes the sword. She lays him on his back and closes his eyes.
Xena, compassionately
XENA
Rest now, old soldier.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS BLACK WOLF'S CAMP AFTERNOON
Gabrielle steps out of the tent and everything stops. All eyes turn to her and Gabrielle makes sure she has their attention. She imitates the call of an eagle and bodies fall out of the trees and hit the ground with a thud. Shocked silence falls. Gabrielle shatters it.
Gabrielle, in loud, carrying voice
GABRIELLE
Black Wolf and King Koulos are dead. One chose hate, one chose peace. Now it is your turn. Surrender and receive a full pardon and a place in the Kingdom. Fight and follow a damned man to Hades. Choose.
Whispered voices drift back to her as Xena steps out of the tent, blood on her armor. The REBELS draw weapons and advance on them. Gabrielle makes another bird call. Armed SOLDIERS rush from all sides, some past them. Xena and Gabrielle turn and walk away from the slaughter. They head toward the arranged meeting point close by, walking side by side.
GABRIELLE
I am proud of you.
Xena, sternly
XENA
Gabrielle, I butchered a man.
Gabrielle, proudly
GABRIELLE
Your instinct was to save the King; to protect life. Xena, do you realize what that means?
Xena considers this.
Xena, understanding
XENA
There were three people in that tent making a choice. You knew what the other two were going to do. Gabrielle!
Gabrielle, gravely
GABRIELLE
No. The King was a given; impending end brings thoughts of mortality and weighs on the conscience. There is a reason they call it deathbed confession. This was his judgment on the mortal plane and he faced it well. Personally, I thought Black Wolf was going to take his own life. He resisted reason and sought solace from a broken heart in hatred. Still, I reached him and started the healing but despite my best efforts I failed. Now he is truly alone. It hurts.
XENA
I'm sorry. I didn't mean to imply
Gabrielle, interrupting
GABRIELLE
I was interested in your reaction. You made me happy and reaffirmed my belief in you. Thanks.
Xena, smiling warmly
XENA
You did the right thing. My hero.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS CAMP NIGHT
Xena and Gabrielle sit across the fire, eating rabbit and tossing the bones into the fire. As usual, Xena relaxes in her tunic with her boots and belt off, while Gabrielle is in her full outfit, ready for battle.
XENA
I read your scrolls; flowery, yet accurate. How different are they from the tales at the taverns?
Gabrielle, noncommittal
GABRIELLE
People pay good drachma to be entertained.
Xena, direct
XENA
Are you downplaying your involvement?
Gabrielle, truthfully
GABRIELLE
Yes.
XENA
Why?
Gabrielle evaluates the question and looks at Xena, who refuses to meet her eyes.
Gabrielle, firmly
GABRIELLE
I want our names together and I am not worried about being targeted. I stand with you to the end; don't question my commitment.
Xena puts her head down.
Gabrielle, gently
GABRIELLE
Xena, I have larger than life narrative to craft and eleven years of mistakes to correct. I tell the truth, leaving out most of my contribution. You are the hero and I am the sidekick. I do this
Gabrielle walks over to the other side of the fire and kneels in front of Xena. She wipes her greasy hands on her legs. Gabrielle takes Xena's chin in her right hand and lifts her head up, looking straight into her eyes.
Gabrielle, affectionately
GABRIELLE
for you, my friend.
Xena, gratefully
XENA
Thank you.
Gabrielle smiles and drops her hand. Xena continues to look in her face.
Xena, deciding
XENA
This is our story.
Gabrielle, seriously
GABRIELLE
You want this?
Xena, affectionately
XENA
Gabrielle, you always sacrifice for others. Sing of two heroes in your tales. Do this for me, my champion.
Gabrielle, reciprocating
GABRIELLE
Back to back against the world.
XENA
Always. Now about that massage
FADE OUT:
THE END