by
Editor
Bleu Gato
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TEASER
FADE IN:
EXT. WILDERNESS CAMP LATE EVENING
Xena is kneeling over Gabrielle's bedroll, massaging her back. Xena is wearing a tunic and Gabrielle has both of her underwraps on. Both their hair is damp, indicating a recent bath.
Xena, poking the upper underwrap and meeting metal under cloth, amused
XENA
You even sleep with kids?
Gabrielle, going along, affecting indifference
GABRIELLE
You get used to it.
Xena, back to kneading the muscles of upper back, smiling
XENA
I think you have issues with intimacy.
GABRIELLE
Says you; Athena is happy.
XENA
If I had a beautiful stranger visit me half the week, I would be doing cartwheels on the grass ecstatic. What does she say about your knifes?
Gabrielle giggles, imagining Xena romping around the fire
GABRIELLE
She thinks they are cute.
XENA
I like Athena. Looking back, I wish we found each other instead of Ares.
GABRIELLE
Xena, one can take sharing too far.
Xena, lost in reminiscence
XENA
There was no past, only present. I lived in the moment, regretting nothing and concentrating on purely existing. The freedom to do anything and no conscience to hold me back reached its zenith with God of war. That turned to ash and Hercules waited for me at the end of that road. Facing death, I entered the first good path in years. Awake, I dreamt of a future only to find months later there was none. Thanks to you, I again have all three and I find myself asking: what if?
Gabrielle, gently
GABRIELLE
You would not change a thing.
Xena, guiltily
XENA
True. If the chain of choices led me to Potidaea and you, I would not alter one link in it. Not a single one. Gabrielle, I can't regret the mistakes without acknowledging doing so would lose you.
Gabrielle, softly yet forcefully
GABRIELLE
Despair for the evil you caused and accept the responsibility for your actions. Remorse is normal and healthy. Give in to regret and cry for the lives cut short. The past is done and set in stone. Now you must do penance and heal your soul.
Xena has stopped the massage and silent tears splash Gabrielle's back. Gabrielle flips over, reaches up with her right hand, and then brushes the tears away.
Gabrielle, warmly
GABRIELLE
You spread untold misery. I am here to wipe the tears.
Gabrielle scoots from under leaning Xena and sits up; she lifts Xena's hands, brings them together, and then kisses the fingers.
Gabrielle, tenderly
GABRIELLE
You run up a butcher's tab. I am here to clean the blood.
Gabrielle releases Xena's hands and embraces her best friend. Xena clutches her as if her life depended on it.
Gabrielle, affectionately
GABRIELLE
You had no mercy. I forgive you.
FADE OUT:
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
EXT. WILDERNESS SLAVERS' CAMP EARLY MORNING
Few hovels sit in a semicircle in a small clearing. To one side are wood cages with some leafy branches piled on top to make the leaks tolerable and keep the human merchandise relatively dry. One hovel is fortified; the windows are boarded and the doors locked and barred. That building is combination storage and prison. Two bored ARCHERS chat in the middle of camp near a large fire and one lightly armed GUARD paces around the cages. They are all wearing minimal leather armor, just a chest piece that covers part of the shoulders and ends at the waist. The condition of their equipment and clothing matches the abundant squalor in plain evidence throughout the camp. This is a small operation, just few thugs trying to scrabble a living. Xena and Gabrielle are out of sight, well hidden in the tree line. They lie on the ground, observing the early morning activity, of which there is little. They keep their voices low.
Gabrielle, bringing Xena up to speed, whispering
GABRIELLE
The women are from a Locia three days walk from here. Our opposition is a dozen thugs with collective intelligence no greater than plant life around here. This is their meal ticket for the winter and they will fight hard for it; stupid and desperate, your common combo. There is someone inside that locked building.
Xena, teasing
XENA
That's all?
Gabrielle, grinning
GABRIELLE
Certain warrior's stomach was complaining loudly and I had to cut the scouting short; didn't want said warrior to give away our camp location.
XENA
Making fun of others in their hour of misery exposes your true persona. Bad, bad bard.
Gabrielle, playfully
GABRIELLE
Growl, gurgle, growl.
Xena rolls silently on top of Gabrielle and pins her down with her weight, not that Gabrielle is fighting back as it would give away their presence.
XENA
Apologize.
Gabrielle, smugly
GABRIELLE
I am a turtle.
She is wearing her steel armor and is quite confident in her defense and unsquashable nature. Xena gives a small sigh and rolls off, back to her original position.
GABRIELLE
Plan?
XENA
Distribution?
GABRIELLE
The common slavers sleep in the two huts on the left. The next one over is the kitchen and the last one is for their leader.
XENA
Take out the guards and the leader. I am making a house call.
Gabrielle, observing
GABRIELLE
Isn't the point of that to cure?
Xena, loftily
XENA
It is about the spirit, not the principle. Besides, I am a healer
Gabrielle, breaking in
GABRIELLE
of death. It is not the condition that kills you, it is the treatment.
Xena, grinning
XENA
True. Time to shine, hero in a shell.
Xena noiselessly gets up and sneaks away, going around the edge of the clearing. She pops out shortly between two converted barracks and wedges a thick branch against the door of one. The GUARD and ARCHERS are not paying attention because they have a bigger problem.
Gabrielle picks her bow and quiver from beside her and goes to find her spot. Seeing Xena appear again she picks her target. The arrow takes the first ARCHER clean thru the right shoulder and comes out partially on the other side. Both ARCHERS stare at the shaft with complete surprise and by the time their brains finally process the implication, the second ARCHER is sporting a matching wound.
Xena kicks in the first door and it comes crashing inside, sunlight revealing unwashed bodies sprawled on the floor in dirty blankets and straw. Empty jugs litter the floor.
Xena, cheerfully
XENA
Morning boys!
With chakram and sword in hand, she wades in and screams answer her greeting.
The other door shakes and curses sound behind it, but the branch holds fast. The GUARD spots it and runs for it, only to be taken from behind in the thigh. The GUARD falls down and the kitchen door opens, followed by the one in leader's hovel. Gabrielle strolls into the clearing, disabling the cook with another well placed arrow. The LEADER takes off for the blocked door and she drops the bow and explodes into motion. The LEADER almost makes it to the door when she drives thru him, taking him into the wall, which entirely collapses onto the mass of THUGS on the other side. The hovel protests such abusive treatment by dropping on top of them all.
Xena sticks her bloody head out of the first hut and takes in the scene. The ruins of the building next door are filled with moaning and groaning THUGS who had little protection against the falling debris. Gabrielle is busy dishing out punishment to several THUGS and the LEADER, who all have lost the stomach for the fight and are desperately trying to get away. Vicious kicks and punches, of shield and plain variety, ensure they don't.
Xena, miffed
XENA
Overachiever.
She glances back inside and satisfied nothing is moving, heads for the action. Dropping her weapons, she flexes her fingers and forms both into fists. Two lucky THUGS stumble from the destruction only to find their good fortune had a short life. An uppercut with a little extra behind it lifts a THUG off the ground and flies him into dreamland. The second takes a kick to the groin and an elbow that grounds him. Xena breaks the neck of the GUARD shot in the leg and heads for the cages.
Xena, contently
XENA
I love being a hero. Her hero.
CUT TO:
INT. SLAVERS' CAMP PRISON/STORAGE MORNING
The lock turns and clicks and Xena steps inside. In the only free corner, to her right, a shadowed figure in chains rests on the bare floor. The dim interior is otherwise filled with sacks, jars and bundles of various shapes and sizes. They cover the floor and three corners, but are stacked low; this speaks of the poverty the owners face. There is not enough for hard times. And once the VILLAGE GIRLS empty it on Gabrielle's orders, the surviving THUGS face harsh prognosis ahead. You reap what you sow.
Xena steps further inside and the VILLAGE GIRLS enter behind her and start taking the provisions and goods out. There is already a small pile of weapons, armor, and other salvaged things deemed worthy on the ground; those are expected to contribute to the village fund. Now the contents of this hovel are added to it.
Xena joins the clearing out work as Gabrielle approaches and crouches in front of the PRISONER. She removes the shackles efficiently, using lock picks. Gabrielle takes a look at where the iron rubbed raw on the skin and without a word opens her healer's kit. She massages the feeling back into the PRISONER's limbs and then cleans the wrists and applies ointment. Linen strips secure the medicine in place. One of the VILLAGE GIRLS enters with a torch and Xena moves over to her and takes it. The PRISONER's eyes follow Xena the entire time before finally turning on the bard.
Gabrielle smiles and gazes into the eyes of the PRISONER, only to have her smile die on her lips as she flinches back. The PRISONER offers little reaction and appears puzzled by hers. Gabrielle regains her composure quickly and offers the PRISONER a waterskin. Xena misses the exchange, busy managing.
Gabrielle, evenly
GABRIELLE
I'm Gabrielle, that's Xena. Be nice. We will escort you to the village and then your fate is in your hands.
She gets up and walks outside as the PRISONER thirstily empties the container.
Xena comes over and can now see the face in detail; older, lined, and weathered yet familiar. Her heart skips a beat and her throat is dry.
Atrius, confirming
ATRIUS
Hello daughter.
Xena, stiffly and formally
XENA
Hello father.
ATRIUS
You look well. Heard a lot about you over the years.
Xena, condemning, coldly
XENA
You left mother to run the inn and raise three young children. Alone.
Atrius, sharply
ATRIUS
You have your past and I have mine. Don't cast stones.
Xena takes a deep breath and pictures Gabrielle. She can hear her gentle voice speak to her and her anger melts away.
Xena, conciliatorily
XENA
Mother is fine. Toris returned home after a long absence and Lyceus died young.
ATRIUS
I'm sorry.
XENA
I am too. I will tell you the same thing I told Toris: you can go back home. That is the easy part. Once you get there, the hard part starts. I know.
ATRIUS
Twenty years is a lifetime.
XENA
Gabrielle says the past is stone. I remember and repent but I do not affect. What matters is the here and now. Father, what is your path?
ATRIUS
Escort to Locia was extended by your healer. You and her took out Kirilus and his men?
Xena, warmly
XENA
Gabrielle is many things. You are welcome to travel with us to the village.
Atrius catches the tone, but mistakes the recipient.
Atrius, hopeful
ATRIUS
Think there is a chance for us, daughter?
XENA
It is a start.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS SLAVERS' CAMP MORNING
Gabrielle is sorting thru the pile and starting to divide the items into bundles for transport. She points at one of the VILLAGE GIRLS moving the provisions and beckons her with her finger and a brilliant smile. That same girl has been casting Gabrielle furtive glances the whole while and it is time for some fun. The VILLAGE GIRL shyly yet eagerly approaches.
GABRIELLE
Hello gorgeous. You have a name to go with that body?
VILLAGE GIRL, startled yet pleased
VILLAGE GIRL
Rhea.
Gabrielle, appreciatively
GABRIELLE
Rhea, the mother of new Gods, Goddess of fertility. Pretty name, like its owner. I like.
Rhea, growing confident
RHEA
I am but a simple peasant girl.
Gabrielle, smiling
GABRIELLE
Rhea, my simple peasant girl, how would you like to work under me?
Rhea, pleased
RHEA
Very.
Gabrielle spreads a somewhat clean blanket and loads it. Rhea assists her without a word and they playfully bump into each other as they fill it. Gabrielle forms it into a backpack and then signals Rhea closer with her head. Gabrielle stands behind her, takes Rhea's hands in hers and demonstrates how to tie the rope knots securely by guiding Rhea thru the motions. Rhea needs several lessons and is starting to press back into Gabrielle.
The VILLAGE GIRLS are giggling and whispering and that is what draws Xena's attention. She emerges from the open door and shakes her head at the spectacle. She heads straight for the pair.
Xena, sighing
XENA
Gabrielle, you are in a relationship.
Gabrielle ignores Xena as she and Rhea finish the last knot. Gabrielle steps back and gives Rhea a slap on the butt, eliciting a yelp.
GABRIELLE
Start on the next one, sunshine.
Rhea gives a smile and goes to lay another blanket on the ground. She starts filling it.
Gabrielle approaches Xena.
Gabrielle, grinning
GABRIELLE
Rhea was sending signals so I decided to have a spot of play.
XENA
Nothing serious?
Gabrielle, considering
GABRIELLE
You are right, I will ask Athena tonight if flirting is okay. When I said you were developing a conscience, I did not mean for you to be my conscience.
Xena, fondly
XENA
You heartbreaker you.
GABRIELLE
Guilty.
XENA
Go on, enjoy youth. One more thing: Atrius, the prisoner, is family.
Gabrielle, growing serious instantly
GABRIELLE
Father?
XENA
Yes.
Gabrielle gives her arm a squeeze then leaves Xena and returns her attention to Rhea.
Xena once again marvels at Gabrielle's ability to read her and know the exact words or gesture to offer.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS FOREST AFTERNOON
Gabrielle and Rhea are taking point, with VILLAGE GIRLS strung out behind them. The two are walking close together and enjoying each other company and conversation; despite the distraction, Gabrielle keeps a watchful eye on their surroundings.
GABRIELLE
Big family?
RHEA
One younger sister, Areliesa and six brothers. You?
Gabrielle, wistfully
GABRIELLE
I have Lila, my daughter, back in Potidaea. It's complicated.
Rhea, curious
RHEA
Ever considered going back?
Gabrielle, sighing
GABRIELLE
Daily. I tell myself one day and watch the months flow past.
Rhea nods and captures Gabrielle's hand, squeezing it in support. Rhea keeps the contact and they walk onward, hand in hand.
RHEA
My first betrothed died in a war, my second during the last raid. I am sixteen and twice a widow. Where is your husband? Xena mentioned a relationship.
GABRIELLE
It was over before it started, Perdicus just did not know it. The child is not his.
Rhea nods in understanding, not realizing that what Gabrielle said is true, just not the way she thinks. Gabrielle glances down at their joined hands and gently separates them. Rhea looks confused.
Gabrielle, honestly
GABRIELLE
I am not your third. There is no us, you and I are two people passing each other in life and having good time in the present. I am in a relationship and this evening I leave to spend the night together.
Rhea, hurt
RHEA
Oh. Then
Gabrielle, softly
GABRIELLE
I like you. I meant what I said, all of it. We stop at flirting and it goes no further.
Rhea, pleading
RHEA
Hold my hand? Give me that much. Gabrielle, it would make me happy.
Gabrielle reluctantly takes her hand and they continue hand in hand again; Rhea dreaming of what could not be and Gabrielle regretting her giving nature. Thou she does not mind the touch and finds Rhea Gabrielle imagines tonight's date with Athena will be very interesting. And then there is Xena.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS FOREST AFTERNOON
Xena and Atrius bring up the rear. Both are lost in thoughts and yearning for what might have been. There is regret mixed in there as well.
Xena, admitting yet afraid of the answer, tentatively
XENA
I was a difficult child. Did it factor in your decision to leave?
ATRIUS
What? No, not at all, it was not your fault in any way.
XENA
ATRIUS
Do you want me back?
XENA
ATRIUS
Xena, talk to me.
XENA
They walk apart, the gulf between them wider than it has ever been.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
EXT. WILDERNESS CAMP EVENING
Xena and everyone are full of venison, the bones of the deer who donated it burning in the fire. Gabrielle comes back from her bath, dressed in plain white tunic. Her hair is wet and it cascades over her shoulders. She leaves her armor but takes her weapons, including the bow. Atrius and VILLAGE GIRLS, except Rhea watch this development with interest. They know she is a bard and expect a few stories tonight. Rhea knows better and she gazes into the fire with abjection.
GABRIELLE
Good night.
Gabrielle picks up her bedroll and walks back into a forest, fading like a ghost. There is no noise of her coming or going, she is there one second and she is not the next.
Both Atrius and the VILLAGE GIRLS look at Xena with questions in their eyes.
Xena, evenly
XENA
Gabrielle has a date.
They stare at the dense forest, empty of human life for miles and then back at her.
Xena, gruffly
XENA
Don't ask.
The VILLAGE GIRLS let it go, thou they get together and whisper. Guesses of nymphs and spirits drift back to Xena's sharp ears.
Atrius comes over from his spot and joins Xena.
Atrius, concerned
ATRIUS
Is she safe?
XENA
The question is: are the bad guys safe from her?
ATRIUS
Her steel armor
Xena, interrupting
XENA
She won it at a dice game. Stop asking questions about her.
ATRIUS
You don't want to talk about yourself and you don't want to talk about your
XENA
Friend.
ATRIUS
friend. What do we talk about?
XENA
Why were you a prisoner?
ATRIUS
I scouted the village for them. When things went bad during the kidnapping, farmers died. The villagers hold me responsible for their deaths and Kirilus refused to pay me on the grounds he lost men. He planned to sell me into slavery.
XENA
Nothing like honest living, father.
ATRIUS
You changed. Maybe it is not too late for me.
Xena, suspiciously
XENA
Why now?
ATRIUS
I have a reason. You.
Xena, firmly
XENA
Gabrielle decides.
Atrius, confused
ATRIUS
What's going on?
XENA
I follow Gabrielle. You want to travel with us past Locia, ask her.
ATRIUS
I am your father.
XENA
You are a man who left when I was very young. You were not part of my life and I am not sure I want you to be.
Atrius, fishing
ATRIUS
The tales speak of great Xena, warrior princess, a daughter any father would be proud to call his own. True, you made mistakes and joining with Ares was the low point. Yet here you are, working for greater good. The past is over; time to find greater glory. Don't bend your knee to Gabrielle anymore. Rise and take your place among the living Gods that walk this land. Make your father proud.
XENA
I killed the last man who dared me to choose between her and we shared a common past; Marcus was the closest I could come to a friend in those days. There is no Xena, father. There is Xena and Gabrielle, together forever.
Atrius, now certain, insidiously
ATRIUS
I leave you with this thought. Consider it an advice from an old man who loves you. Daughter, I care for you, like any father. You speak of ties thicker than blood. Why is Gabrielle not here with you then? With a bond that strong why does she find comfort in arms of another?
Xena puts her head down, the words appearing to have their intended effect. Atrius rises and is about to walk away when Xena's voice stops him.
Xena, quietly resigned
XENA
She trusts me with her life. She does not trust me with her heart. That is the price for my past. I made peace with that fact.
ATRIUS
A lifetime of pain
Xena, bitterly
XENA
My personal Tartarus before the real one; death is not a release for me.
ATRIUS
What keeps her with you then?
XENA
I damned her soul.
Atrius, crying out loud, startling the VILLAGE GIRLS on the other side of the fire
ATRIUS
By Gods, what have you done?!
XENA
What happened is over and now we go on.
ATRIUS
This is her way of punishing you, isn't it?
XENA
She won't speak ill of me, bless her pure heart. She knows the reason, yet she refuses to believe it. Gabrielle and hate can't coexist. In the time I known her and the stories of her past she shared, love guided her.
Atrius, dismissively
ATRIUS
No one is that noble and honorable. You hold her to an ideal that is impossible. One day it will shatter and expose the lies and rot inside.
XENA
Gabrielle has a gift to see the truth and lives in merciless light of self honesty. She is wise and kept her reading of you private. Thanks to her, I found out the answer without her insight. Tread lightly, father.
Atrius, persisting, condescendingly
ATRIUS
Love is blind, Xena. It affects my judgment and it corrupts yours.
Xena, growing angry
XENA
You listen and you listen well. Gabrielle was in an archery duel to the death and she used a blunt arrow rather than take a life. She chose oblivion over compromising her principles. Father, you say one more word with that forked tongue and I will spill your blood.
Atrius, knowing he pushed as far as he could and planted the seed of doubt, contritely
ATRIUS
I am a bad person. I have numerous vices and Im quite partial to work that is not advertised in the open. Yet I look at you reformed, stories made bone and flesh, and I am starting to believe there is hope for me too. I feel the heat of your belief in another and it warms my heart. If she will have me, I would like to learn from Gabrielle.
Xena, unsure but somewhat hopeful, allowing
XENA
Family belongs together, Gabrielle will agree on this.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS CAMP MORNING
After a cold breakfast of captured provisions, Xena watches the camp being packed and they head out. Gabrielle disappears right away, hunting their lunch and supper. Argo has turned into pack horse and she is not happy as one of the VILLAGE GIRLS takes the lead rope. Still, she soldiers on, like a good warhorse she is. Xena and Atrius take the rear again, depending on Gabrielle to scout ahead as she forages. Rhea joins them and Atrius speeds up to give them privacy.
Xena, growling
XENA
Yes?
Rhea, intimidated and stumbling over words
RHEA
Her Gabrielle I mean not sure sorry who
Xena, softening her expression and voice
XENA
Your competition is out of your league. Find a nice boy and settle down.
Rhea, stubbornly
RHEA
I can win her over. I need your help.
Xena drops the nice act and brings fire and thunder back. Xena, roaring her claim
XENA
Mine!!!
Rhea gives a startled squeak and runs away, past Atrius and back to the main group of VILLAGE GIRLS. Atrius shakes his head and slows his steps. He falls even with Xena.
ATRIUS
The drama is reaching Homer's Odyssey proportions. That one is mooning after Gabrielle like a calf searching for its mother.
XENA
Welcome to life with the bard. Compared to physical damage she can dish out, the emotional wreckage she leaves behind puts the sacking of Troy to shame. Gods, men, women, all are caught in that human tornado. Step into the storm, father.
ATRIUS
You are drawn to danger like bear to honey. Always were, even tiny. That is what I remember the strongest. Fearless and rushing headlong into another adventure, Lyceus following behind you like a lost puppy. Drove your mother mad with your escapades and took years off my life worrying about you two. Twenty years later and it is the same thing.
XENA
Good memories?
ATRIUS
They burn bright even in the coldest and darkest places.
XENA
Hard life?
ATRIUS
Similar to yours with considerably less success; merely surviving and relying on cunning instead of a sword. More desperate.
XENA
You had everything.
ATRIUS
Man is a fool by nature, specially a young man.
XENA
Another skirt?
ATRIUS
And a life full of riches and free of responsibility.
XENA
Same thing, change the skirt to power.
ATRIUS
Here we are, both broke and alone.
XENA
I have Gabrielle.
ATRIUS
Do you now.
Xena, warningly, in darker tone
XENA
Careful.
Atrius, concerned
ATRIUS
I meant she is with you but not yours. What was the story with that girl?
XENA
Rhea? Gabrielle marriage club lost another member.
ATRIUS
The other one scares that easily?
XENA
The other one scares me.
Atrius, confused
ATRIUS
You? Surely not Ares?
XENA
Athena.
Atrius stops walking suddenly and fear shows in his eyes. He is clearly shaken and nervous. Xena attributes it to her past.
Atrius, afraid
ATRIUS
Xena, you know better. Now there are two Gods involved and this is heading towards a bad place. Warlord sponsored by Ares is considered common trouble. You attacking poleis and crusading for one God Ares crossed the line. So did he. Not again.
Xena, firmly
XENA
Ares is history. Athena and Gabrielle are together.
ATRIUS
Are you Athena's Champion?
XENA
No, Gabrielle is, when she chooses.
ATRIUS
Then you are.
XENA
Guilt by association?
ATRIUS
Will you follow her anywhere?
XENA
Yes.
ATRIUS
There is your answer.
XENA
The warlord Xena is dead.
ATRIUS
I am a scoundrel and admit it. I face no illusions over actions taken in my lifetime. There is blood on my hands and a single, great regret for that day I left your mother. I know what I am and I speak with clarity afforded by age: you are in denial. The darkness in you is permanent and Gabrielle is Athena's. I love you, Xena. I abandoned you in Amphipolis but not in my heart. Trust me.
Long silence falls.
Xena, deciding
XENA
Speak to Gabrielle and then we will talk again. Don't lie, she will know.
ATRIUS
Thank you, daughter of mine.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
EXT. WILDRENESS FOREST AFTERNOON
Xena is in her usual place in the back, lost in thought. Gabrielle leads the party and Atrius walks in the middle with the VILLAGE GIRLS, telling them some of his adventures. He takes a break and heads to the front, gathering his wits and planning his attack. He is not aware that he might as well face a giant with his bare hands for all the good that it will do him.
Gabrielle, somewhat friendly yet reserved
GABRIELLE
Hello father.
Atrius, disconcerted but recovering quickly
ATRIUS
Hello Gabrielle. What did your gift show you?
GABRIELLE
Dark heart and a soul to match.
ATRIUS
True. Does Xena know?
GABRIELLE
She did not ask and I did not tell.
Atrius, curious
ATRIUS
What do you see in her?
Gabrielle, smiling and the voice warm
GABRIELLE
Good heart and a dark soul, my reflection. My best friend. My hero.
Atrius, surprised and trying another tactic
ATRIUS
Xena is darkness.
Gabrielle, affectionately
GABRIELLE
I forgive. I love her.
Atrius realizes that this is one rock that has no cracks. He tries something else.
ATRIUS
You should tell her.
GABRIELLE
I do. She guesses the rest and hopes for more.
ATRIUS
Athena has that.
GABRIELLE
We are moving forward. It is new to both of us.
Atrius finds something he can work with. Atrius, convincingly
ATRIUS
You did not give my daughter a chance. You are bonded body and soul, but you stopped at heart. Don't you see what you doing to her? Offer her everything except the one thing she desires most. Gabrielle, Xena told me she lives in personal Tartarus, from which not even death cannot release her. It tears my heart to see her suffer. And from what I gather, you enjoy your little games. I notice you are avoiding Rhea, your latest conquest.
Gabrielle laughs, surprising him. She stops and grabs him by the front of the armor, bringing him face to face with her. Atrius played with fire and the blaze consumes him as her eyes lock him down and trap him in place. The rest of the group halts and waits; small smile flickers on Xena's lips. She guesses Atrius did not follow her advice.
Gabrielle, smiling wolfishly
GABRIELLE
Not bad for an amateur. You had the guilt trip going until you threw in those last shots. Your feelings are not sincere and now you are an open book. Try to lie or play games and I will cut you.
Atrius, admiring
ATRIUS
The mind and will that captured Xena. Nicely met, Gabrielle.
Gabrielle, evenly
GABRIELLE
Xena's commitment is weaker; mine is absolute.
ATRIUS
Allow me to observe that your futures diverge. You are destined for Olympus, immortal consort to Athena. Or a mortal elevated in station, given wealth and blessings to match your status. That leaves Xena out.
GABRIELLE
Not buying. Our bond is eternal, Athena implied that. The Fates hold the threads of Gods and mortals and this is stronger than them. My dream of the bond breaking is over. Athena is devoted to our future with an understanding that Xena is part of it. I don't know in what form or way, but your daughter and I are one till the end of time.
Atrius, genuinely sorry
ATRIUS
Cruel fate.
Gabrielle, gently
GABRIELLE
Life is shaped by our hands, clay on the potter's wheel. You daughter is loved and part of my family. She will accept it in time and be happy.
Atrius, pleading tearfully
ATRIUS
Let her go.
GABRIELLE
You cannot break us apart. Accept it. We are heading for Amphipolis and plan to stay the winter. Xena did not question the return location from Troy but she suspects the reason. She is going home. With you.
Atrius, losing the fight, uncertain
ATRIUS
Home
Pause.
Atrius, starting to lose it, tears flowing down his face
ATRIUS
You can give me that?
GABRIELLE
I am. Say yes.
Atrius is lost in her eyes, larger than they have a right to be, even this close. The feeling of losing his will intensifies. Gabrielle smile lights up her face and she becomes his entire universe. Sobbing, he surrenders to her open arms and embraces her.
Atrius, believing
ATRIUS
Yes.
Gabrielle looks back at Xena across the forest and gives her a small nod. Xena shakes her head in amazement as the VILLAGE GIRLS chatter among themselves.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDRENESS FOREST LATE AFTERNOON
Xena guards the rear, VILLAGE GIRLS are ahead of her, then Atrius, and last, or first, Gabrielle heads the human snake.
Rhea holds back all day, the light stepping vision up front occupying her mind constantly. Unable to help herself, she finally gives in to her desires; she breaks from the VILLAGE GIRLS and joins Gabrielle at her side. Rhea shyly offers her hand and Gabrielle takes it, swinging their combined arms back and forth a few times, surprising Rhea with her strength. Gabrielle laughs with pure joy and Rhea joins happily.
Gabrielle, teasing
GABRIELLE
Rhea, you sweet thing, you holding out on me?
Rhea, confused yet pleased
RHEA
What are the rules?
Gabrielle takes a lingering glance of Rhea's side profile, from her feet to her face. Rhea blushes under the scrutiny and squaring her shoulders, she pushes her chest up and out. Gabrielle eyes come back down for a second, longer look.
Gabrielle, smiling
GABRIELLE
Look but don't touch.
Rhea looks down at their joined hands and asks a silent question.
GABRIELLE
The life I save is yours.
Rhea, puzzled
RHEA
Huh?
Gabrielle guides her away from tree on a collision course with Rhea.
Gabrielle, innocently
GABRIELLE
You are walking into trees my dear. Next thing you know it is raining squirrels and they are vicious when provoked. Can't have you nibbled to death.
Rhea giggles and Gabrielle pulls her arm down, sending Rhea towards her and bringing their shoulders together. In quick motion Gabrielle takes a light bite of Rhea's arm.
GABRIELLE
Nibble.
Rhea squeals and jumps away, without breaking contact.
Rhea, giggling again
RHEA
You are fun. Are you telling tales tonight?
Gabrielle pulls Rhea close again and then bumps her away with her hip.
Gabrielle, grinning wickedly
GABRIELLE
Why Rhea, what would we do in a bedroll except tell stories.
Rhea turns brick red.
Rhea, hastily
RHEA
At campfire, after dinner.
GABRIELLE
Those too.
Rhea, concerned
RHEA
What changed? You were not like this before.
GABRIELLE
Feeling playful. You mind?
Rhea, blurts out happily
RHEA
I am yours.
Rhea realizes what she just said and nearly goes down. Gabrielle catches her and sets her right. Rhea's hand is released and a toned arm goes around Rhea's shoulder and draws her closer with ease. Rhea instinctively presses into the contact. Back at the tail of the snake, Xena walks into a tree.
GABRIELLE
Safe?
Rhea, contently
RHEA
Very.
GABRIELLE
I sing of Minos, King of Crete
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDRENESS FOREST EARLY EVENING
Xena is nursing a scrape on her forehead courtesy of killer tree. At least she pretends it was. Better than the alternative. Atrius drops back and they walk together.
ATRIUS
Nice bruise. Problem?
XENA
You are not paying attention.
Atrius, apologetically
ATRIUS
Sorry, mind is gone. Gabrielle packs a mean punch.
Xena points with her arm at Gabrielle and Rhea body merge.
Atrius, whistling
ATRIUS
That's trouble. Why did you not stop it?
He makes a move towards the front only to be stopped by Xena.
XENA
It is not what it appears.
ATRIUS
I am a father and all for life's lessons but this is one lesson we are not going to survive. Hello, wrath of Goddess? Xena, I like my life. In fact, it is improving by the minute. You grab Gabrielle and dump her in the nearest body of water to extinguish that ardor. I will take Rhea aside and explain the perils of adultery.
XENA
Trust me, you would make a fine parent. If I fell in love with the wrong boy and we run off together and I came back pregnant months later, you are the father I would want at my side. After you chased down and killed the boy of course.
ATRIUS
Not funny. Xena, they are touching!
XENA
I did not think she would take it to the point I walked into a tree.
Atrius, resigned
ATRIUS
Tornado Gabrielle strikes again I gather. What's going on?
XENA
Gabrielle told, Athena got jealous, and it made her attentive.
ATRIOUS
What?
XENA
Very attentive. It added spice.
Atrius, uncomfortable
ATRIUS
Whoa, too much information.
Pause.
Atrius, curious
ATRIUS
Are there any secrets between you two?
XENA
Father, piece of advice. Unless you are absolutely sure you want to hear the answer, be very careful what you ask Gabrielle. People tell lies in different flavors and magnitudes. Not her. Aside from few things, she is completely and utterly honest. The rest is partial truth, doled and parceled out as needed. Plus she has the uncanny ability to find your weak spot and exploit it. Tread carefully.
ATRIUS
I found that out the hard way. I woke up with wagon tracks on my chest just now; did not even see what hit me. Figured I should talk to you. I think me and Gabrielle are okay.
XENA
She approves.
Atrius, joking
ATRIUS
Speaking of young hearts, does that mean I don't have to do the birds and bees talk with you?
XENA
That horse left the barn. Twice.
ATRIUS
Twice? Who were the lucky souls?
Xena, shyly
XENA
Mother and Aphrodite.
ATRIUS
I am sure the second was more show than tell.
XENA
Father!
ATRIUS
No scoundrel like an old scoundrel.
He looks at her as they continue walking.
ATRIUS
You have barrels of conquest stories out there, daughter. If even half are true Gods, don't mind me, what about your poor mother?
XENA
Wishful dreams all.
ATRIUS
That's a relief. No father should hear that about their daughter from strangers. It hurt, it really did. Sitting there hearing their lurid tales and claims of prowess with you and unable to utter a word in defense. If anyone found me out, I was bait at best and dead man for sure.
Xena, confessing
XENA
I was selfish and controlling. Gabrielle lived a different life, completely opposite from mine. She took my heart with one look. She became my champion with one word. The months since we met are the best of my life.
Atrius, quietly
ATRIUS
Are you happy, daughter?
Xena, instantly
XENA
Yes.
ATRIUS
Promise me something.
XENA
Atrius, voice tinged with regret and deep pain
ATRIUS
I was wrong. Don't make the same mistake I did. Don't leave her.
Xena stops walking and hugs him. They feel the connection reestablish itself, old wounds healing. It is a small thing, but as with all life, things start small and then grow and bloom. Such is the way of nature. Xena and Atrius repair the bond between father and daughter; separated by years and bad choices, united by trust in each other and by Gabrielle. Such is the faith in others rewarded.
Xena, trembling
XENA
I promise.
FADE OUT:
END OF PART ONE