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.
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TEASER
FADE IN:
INT. AMAZON VILLAGE TERREIS' HOUSE EARLY EVENING
The sharp smell of liniment fills the room. Gabrielle finishes a fresh wrapping of Xena's ribs and moves to put away her kit. Row of stitches peeks under her bangs and a small mouse adorns her eye, both evidence of their earlier fight. She appears fine otherwise.
Xena puts on the tunic and sits down at the table. She watches Gabrielle finish packing for her trip. There is a new addition to her formidable arsenal. Gabrielle picks up a long bow that Xena had not noticed before and sets it near the door.
Xena, measuring the monstrosity with her eyes, teasing
XENA
Seriously, six foot longbow. You are compensating, shorty.
GABRIELLE
Speaks the six and a half human tower.
Xena, spreading her arms to the side, vainly
XENA
More of me to love.
GABRIELLE
Pass.
XENA
Admit it: you enjoyed my attention yesterday morning.
GABRIELLE
That was less lather and more a full body grope.
Xena, pointedly
XENA
Did anyone stop you?
GABRIELLE
No.
Xena, triumphantly
XENA
I rest my case.
Gabrielle, changing tack, innocently
GABRIELLE
Did you enjoy the show?
Xena, smugly
XENA
Yes, both of them.
GABRIELLE
I did too.
XENA
I am telling Athena.
GABRIELLE
She says: thanks for the memories.
Xena, curious
XENA
She liked it?
Gabrielle, springing the trap, calmly
GABRIELLE
You are still alive. Honestly, you were a picture of restraint and clinical approach.
Xena, indignant
XENA
Wait, I was in terror the entire time, expecting the wrath of Athena to arrive any second and you both got a kick out of it?
Gabrielle, grinning
GABRIELLE
Yes.
XENA
No fair, I want a do over where I can experience it properly.
GABRIELLE
Dream on, Warrior Princess.
Xena, pouting
XENA
I don't want to play with either of you anymore. You are no fun.
Gabrielle walks over to the bow and brings it to Xena. It is now a significantly shorter.
GABRIELLE
Bow?
Xena, scratching her head, puzzled
XENA
Why is it now half the size?
GABRIELLE
It's adjustable.
Xena, fascinated with the weapon, examining it closely
XENA
Neat.
Pause.
Xena, guessing
XENA
Gift from Artemis?
Gabrielle, sighing
GABRIELLE
Xena, she is a worse lecher than you are and that is quite an achievement.
XENA
How many times did she proposition you?
GABRIELLE
Once every sentence; twice saying goodbye.
Xena, eagerly
XENA
I need to go take notes.
GABRIELLE
Don't go in that temple unless you want to drop a child in nine months. I got grabbed more than in the worst tavern we been in and that was just the Goddess saying hello.
XENA
What happened to the sanctity of the marriage?
Gabrielle, giggling
GABRIELLE
Artemis evidently believes in blessing it frequently and with fervor.
XENA
Scary.
GABRIELLE
You are so going.
XENA
There are some places even I won't go.
GABRIELLE
And there are those where you keep trying.
XENA
One day, bard. One day.
GABRIELLE
Promises, promises.
Gabrielle shoulders the furry backpack and takes the bow back. She slings it and jumps a few times to settle things. Making a final check of the weapons, she turns to Xena.
Gabrielle, sweetly
GABRIELLE
Good luck on your initiation.
XENA
Fat lot of good you are.
GABRIELLE
When in doubt, lard.
XENA
Are you gone yet? There is that annoying buzzing about.
Gabrielle comes over to the table and smiles disarmingly. Xena can't resist and she stands up and hugs her fiercely. Gabrielle returns the emotion, but not the intensity, mindful of the rib injury.
GABRIELLE
I love you. Stay out of trouble.
XENA
Be safe, I love you too.
They break and Xena hands over the chakram; Gabrielle takes it without a word. Nothing further needs to be said and Gabrielle is to the door and gone.
Xena looks around the empty hut and her shoulders slump. A small, defeated sound escapes her lungs. She takes off her boots and tosses them. She turns and is ready to claim the bed when she notices it is already taken. Athena is snuggly embedded under the covers.
Xena, smiling
XENA
You want dinner?
The Goddess nods affirmative and Xena heads out, putting on her boots and belt first. She stops at the door and looks back.
Xena, gratefully
XENA
Thanks for staying.
A warm smile is her answer and she leaves whistling. The separation is not going to be so bad after all.
FADE OUT:
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
INT. WILDERNESS TENT PRE DAWN
The tent is stitched from hides, thick and impervious to the light that is slowly coloring the world. In the center of the small space lies the tightly wrapped body of Terreis and next to her a figure kneels, lost to the world. Tears drop and soak into the skins below her.
Gabrielle enters like a ghost and spreads a cloak behind Melosa. Gentle arms draw the mourning Queen close and hold her there. Gabrielle cradles her Amazon mother, lending her strength.
Gabrielle, comfortingly
GABRIELLE
At night we walk at her side. In day, we will sleep with her. On her last journey, my sister will not be alone.
Melosa, unable to hold the words, tearfully
MELOSA
We allow the spirit time to say goodbye to the loved ones and the life she left behind. We believe that it walks among the living Amazons, bestows blessings on us, and achieves peace. With the last of rays, the spirit departs for judgment by Hades. Artemis offers her favored children this gift of an extra day. When the sun set yesterday, Terreis was truly gone. Her body will rest with the royal line in the valley of the Queens, where the first temple to Artemis stands.
Pause.
Melosa, sobbing
MELOSA
This is what we tell ourselves. I know better, for there is only one truth: my beloved child is gone.
The Queen buries her face in Gabrielle's chest and spills her grief and loss.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS FOREST LATE AFTERNOON
Gabrielle is one with the woods, barely leaving a ripple in the green after her passing. Ephiny is valiantly trying to keep the speed and noise level of her passage the same as bard's but she is not successful in either, lagging well behind.
Ephiny, under her nose
EPHINY
Damn woman is a spirit.
She stops when she notices in her moment of inattention, Gabrielle disappeared. There is not a sign, sight, or sound of any living thing larger than a rabbit anywhere. Ephiny crouches behind some cover, keeping low and straining her senses.
She hears somebody move towards her, heavier and louder steps - so unlike Gabrielle - heading straight for her. She slowly slips a dagger from the sheath and prepares to strike. Then the stranger stops and a body comes flying at her. She chokes a scream and then collects herself. She looks down at an unconscious AMAZON from a rival tribe covering her. Raising her eyes in fear of what she will find, she is relieved to see Gabrielle grinning back at her.
Ephiny, confused
EPHINY
How? Who?
GABRIELLE
Heard you breathing, huntress. Found unfriendly scout, thought to keep her. Heard they make great pets.
Ephiny, releasing the nervous tension, giggling at the absurdity of the statement
EPHINY
Can I keep her?
GABRIELLE
Have you been a good Amazon?
Ephiny, solemnly
EPHINY
The best; Eponin thinks highly of me.
GABRIELLE
Doesn't she sort of have to by law?
EPHINY
You want marriage advice, it will cost you.
Ephiny checks their captive, noting the rope on hands and legs. She rolls the AMAZON away, standing with Gabrielle's help. She lifts the woman over her shoulder and starts back to the main party.
Gabrielle, mischievously
GABRIELLE
Tied her just how you like it.
EPHINY
You truly are an Amazon.
GABRIELLE
Call me Princess.
Ephiny, bantering
EPHINY
Eponin will be jealous.
GABRIELLE
She will live.
EPHINY
I won't. Friends?
GABRIELLE
Friends.
CUT TO:
EXT. VALLEY TREE LINE DAWN
Xena is naked and painted red. Eponin breaks from the large group of AMAZONS and joins her.
EPONIN
Ribs okay?
XENA
Mostly healed; good for now and hopefully they stay that way.
EPONIN
Not this time. Kitchens are guarded and the sentries and patrols are doubled. In the entire history of the nation Gabrielle is the first initiate to pass unharmed. It won't happen again.
XENA
I have many skills.
EPONIN
I look forward to them.
XENA
That's what they all say before the screaming starts.
Eponin, patting her shoulder, nonchalantly
EPHINY
Five minutes. See you at the healer.
Xena, fixing her with eyes of steel, intimidatingly
XENA
If I go down, I am taking you down with me.
Warrior Princess vanishes into the forest and Eponin involuntarily shivers at the words.
CUT TO:
EXT. AMAZON VILLAGE TEMPLE LATE MORNING
MUSCULAR AMAZONS are back, double in number. They have nets and clubs and a solid wall of them stands at the foot of temple steps. They are ready for trouble; they are not ready for Xena.
The earth starts vibrating, the low rumble growing louder with each second. MUSCULAR AMAZONS search for the source of the sound and then open their eyes wide when it is revealed. Surging thru the gate is a herd of HORSES, sending AMAZONS on the path to scatter and dive out of the way. Xena is nowhere in sight as the whole stampeding mass heads for the temple. MUSCULAR AMAZONS abandon their post and run for their lives, not eager to get trampled.
Just as they reach the temple, the column of HORSES breaks like a wave hitting a rock and splits into two streams. Xena, who was hanging on the side of the HORSE in the back of the herd, rights herself and balances on the back. With her war cry reverberating in the open space, she jumps over and lands past the line of MUSCULAR AMAZONS that are blocking the lower stairs. Quick as can be, she rushes to safety.
Steps from the door, Eponin and a living avalanche of AMAZONS roar at her from inside the temple. Xena is carried down and buried in warm flesh.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS CAMP EARLY EVENING
Gabrielle and Ephiny are sitting close together, backs against the log as they tear into the meat in their hands. The AMAZONS are either eating or doing weapons and armor maintenance. They are in pairs, for it is rare of life mates to be apart. There is no sign of Melosa and most of the guards around the perimeter are partially hidden. Trussed up PRISONER AMAZON is lying down nearby and glaring at Gabrielle, who does not appear to care.
Ephiny, looking at the captive, excitedly
EPHINY
What was that thing you did to her?
Gabrielle, pausing her chewing and considering the answer for a second, shrugging
GABRIELLE
The pinch? Xena taught me.
They eat in silence that stretches for a while, Ephiny peaking at Gabrielle every so often as if wanting to ask something but afraid to.
Gabrielle, acting on Ephiny's indecision, reassuringly
GABRIELLE
I don't bite. Much.
Ephiny, working up the courage, carefully
EPHINY
I'm confused. You and Xena are as close as life mates yet you are joined to another. Do you have a sharing arrangement?
Gabrielle, thoughtfully
GABRIELLE
No, not exactly. We have a pact but I and Xena don't share everything; there is a line. What you speak of is the sole providence of my wife. Xena's happiness lies with another.
Ephiny, nodding, wisely
EPHINY
So, you decided who to give your heart to. However, you stay on this path and one day you will have an even harder choice: to die for Xena or live for your wife.
Gabrielle puts down the food and hangs her head.
Ephiny, concerned
EPHINY
What's wrong?
Gabrielle, looking Ephiny in the eye, honestly
GABRIELLE
I always said that Xena comes first and I believed it. More, I lived it. That might no longer be the case. I am not sure anymore.
EPHINY
What happened?
GABRIELLE
She chipped at my faith while Athena rewarded it.
Ephiny, eyes opening wide in surprise, amazed
EPHINY
Then the rumors are true, you are indeed the Chosen in the truest sense.
Gabrielle, dreamily
GABRIELLE
Yes, we are one. Athena is the sun of my life. She stokes the blaze in my body, feeds the flame burning in my heart, and illuminates my soul with her light; the Goddess of me and my true love.
EPHINY
And Xena?
Gabrielle, mood turning sour, morosely
GABRIELLE
I betrayed my daughter and now her. Gave them an oath and broke it: once for greater good, once for love.
Ephiny scoots closer and puts an arm around Gabrielle's shoulder.
EPHINY
Gabrielle, I loved Eponin since I can remember and she felt the same way. You are not wrong to put the Goddess above all. In this, you and I are the same.
Gabrielle, sniffling
GABRIELLE
Romantic fools.
EPHINY
And they love us for it.
GABRIELLE
You are a good friend.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS VALLEY OF THE QUEENS 5 DAYS LATER/MORNING
It is a space between steep hills and cliffs, narrow in places and wider in others. This is a place of death, with no water source visible or vegetation present. Dirt and rocks are the predominant features.
Gabrielle and Melosa enter the valley with contingent of AMAZONS carrying digging tools behind them. They walk silently at the front, the warriors following them and allowing them privacy by keeping their distance.
Instinctively, Gabrielle's right hand moves to her belt and unhooks the chakram. Second later, two DEAD WALKERS, dressed in war paint and nothing else, attack the royalty with speed and recklessness that speaks of their drugged state. They seek oblivion in death and glory of the kill before they are cut down.
The chakram flies and takes the leg off the first one above the ankle. DEAD WALKER #1 screams and falls. DEAD WALKER #2 hesitates for just a fraction and Gabrielle is on her, taking her down. Furious struggle begins as Gabrielle appears to be trying to ride a raging bull, the DEAD WALKER #2 screaming and trashing with unnatural strength and the bard holding on for dear life. Fortunately, other AMAZONS jump to her help and a pile of bodies pins the DEAD WALKER #2 in place. The DEAD WALKER #2 is turned over and shoved face first into the dirt. She is then knocked out and tied very securely.
Gabrielle is already working on the DEAD WALKER #1, applying a tourniquet. Melosa approaches and removes a healing kit from Gabrielle's backpack, handing it to her.
Melosa, gratefully
MELOSA
You saved my life. No one has taken a dead walker one on one and you defeated two.
GABRIELLE
The drugs augment strength but leave the mind clear. You forget I train with Xena.
The AMAZONS spread out throughout and on the sides of the valley, searching for additional ambushes. Melosa takes a long look at Gabrielle and then walks over to join Ephiny who is standing close by, awaiting orders.
Melosa, contemplatively
MELOSA
Reflexes and abilities to envy yet no killer instinct.
Ephiny wisely keeps her council.
Melosa, reading her, impatiently
MELOSA
Speak freely.
EPHINY
I fear there you are wrong, my Queen. I see control and purpose. I pray you and I don't see the day when Gabrielle lets go.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS VALLEY OF THE QUEENS AFTERNOON
The dirt and rocks are piled high, revealing a set of roughhewn steps that descends into the ground. There is an entrance to an underground structure of some sort at the end of the descending stairs.
Gabrielle and Melosa, both stained with dirt and sweat, are taking a water break as the other AMAZONS finish clearing the space.
Melosa, passing the waterskin, informatively
MELOSA
Queen Eunike saw the chance to kill the leaders of our tribe and took it.
Gabrielle, trying to work out how Amazons do things, questioning
GABRIELLE
Isn't the valley sacred?
MELOSA
Eunike won't risk open war but the chance to assassinate royalty and throw the tribe into chaos was there and she took it. If she succeeded, no one would object. Unfortunately for her, Amazons don't tolerate failure and with that action Eunike just turned every tribe in Thrace against her.
Melosa notices Ephiny talking with nearby SENTRIES.
Melosa, beckoning with her arm, sharply
MELOSA
Ephiny!
Ephiny is running over before her name is out completely. She halts in front of Melosa.
EPHINY
My Queen?
MELOSA
Report.
EPHINY
Valley is secure. We found a campsite but it was abandoned. Tracks show they headed back after splitting up; all three prisoners are from the same tribe.
Melosa, coldly
MELOSA
Skin them alive and hang them at the entrance to the valley as a warning.
Gabrielle, horrified
GABRIELLE
Wait!
Ephiny looks stunned and ready to run. She does not want to be in the middle of this power struggle. Melosa looks angry.
Gabrielle, thinking fast, appeasing
GABRIELLE
Do you want her head?
Melosa, ready to explode, frowns and looks lost for a second
MELOSA
What?!
Gabrielle, confidently
GABRIELLE
I will bring Eunike alive if you show mercy to the captives. Punish the mind, not the knife.
MELOSA
Ephiny, leave us!
Ephiny is more than happy to put some distance between herself and the Queen. She watches out of hearing distance, ready to serve as soon as the situation is settled.
Melosa, harshly
MELOSA
Don't question my orders openly, Princess.
Gabrielle, not backing down
GABRIELLE
I offered you another option, mother. I am your advisor.
MELOSA
What do you want?
GABRIELLE
I read the scrolls with Amazon laws and customs you brought along. I reserve the right to judge and punish the captives. Eunike is yours.
Melosa, mollified, confirming
MELOSA
You will deliver her to me, breathing and in good health?
Gabrielle, respectfully
GABRIELLE
Yes, my Queen.
MELOSA
And if I refuse?
Gabrielle, promising, strongly
GABRIELLE
You won't be Queen.
Melosa, chuckling, pleased with the boldness and fire
MELOSA
Gabrielle, you are a remarkable and principled woman. I order you to arrest Eunike for the crimes against our tribe and deliver her to my judgment.
GABRIELLE
Your will, my Queen.
Melosa, without looking, calling loudly
MELOSA
Ephiny!
Ephiny is there in seconds, awaiting orders.
MELOSA
Gabrielle is going to bring us their Queen and you are going with her.
The crestfallen expression on Ephiny's face speaks volumes of what she thinks of that plan.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
EXT. VALLEY OF THE QUEENS CAMP - 1 WEEK LATER/MORNING
Having been announced, Gabrielle and Ephiny walk into the encampment to shouts and war cries. Between them, bound and gagged walks Eunike, with her head held high. She is trying to maintain dignity and royal bearing, ropes tying her notwithstanding. She is led to Melosa who awaits her in a semicircle of AMAZONS.
Without preamble, Melosa punches her and she goes down. Melosa lifts Eunike's head by the hair and sneers at her.
MELOSA
Don't disappoint Artemis and die too soon, Eunike. Show everyone how an Amazon Queen dies.
Melosa, to surrounding AMAZONS, ordering harshly
MELOSA
String her up.
Two poles are set in the ground at the entrance to the valley and the AMAZONS drag the rival Queen to them and remove her clothes and gag. She is tied spread eagled to them and an AMAZON with a sharp hunting knife approaches her. Melosa and numerous other AMAZONS form a circle and watch the execution of Queen Eunike.
Her part done, Gabrielle quickly turns and hurries away. Without hesitation, Ephiny joins her and walks next to her.
Ephiny, shuddering, disturbed
EPHINY
It is not right for a warrior to die like that.
Gabrielle, correcting, sadly
GABRIELLE
It is not right for a human being to die like that.
Ephiny, apologetically
EPHINY
I'm sorry; our ways are new to you. There is much good and you learn to accept the occasional bad. Our lives are ruled by tradition and in observing and following it we honor our ancestors and our Goddess, Artemis.
Gabrielle, firm and determined
GABRIELLE
Then it is time for tradition to change. Let's visit the prisoners.
The first cheer chases after them; the flaying has begun. Gabrielle turns pale but keeps her step. Ephiny discretely moves closer, ready to help if required.
CUT TO:
EXT. AMAZON VILLAGE FENCED IN YARD - MORNING
Xena and Athena are sparring in the privacy of small walled compound. It was a perk of Terreis' position and now passed onto Princess Gabrielle. Xena is wearing her full armor and the Goddess is resplendent in her golden one.
Suddenly, Athena goes pallid and staggers back, her sword arm dropping without warning and leaving her defenseless. Xena drops her weapon and rushes to her side. She guides and supports the Goddess to the nearby bench and hands her a waterskin.
With shaky hands Athena opens the container and swallows a few gulps. She draws herself together and smiles reassuringly at Xena, who is sits next to her.
Athena, shaken
ATHENA
Gabrielle and Melosa were attacked in the Valley of the Queens. The person behind it was brought in and they are torturing her now.
Xena allows Athena to express her thoughts without interruption and at her own pace.
Athena, hurting, sorrowfully
ATHENA
She feels guilt for the woman and pain for her life mate. There is hopelessness at hearing the screams and being unable to help Eunike. My heart is alone.
Xena stands up and then kneels in front of the Goddess. She embraces Athena and hugs her closely, providing comfort. Athena returns the gesture in kind and draws strength from her friend. Unbidden tears fall on Xena's dark hair.
Athena, eyes unfocused, mind far away, affectionately and tearfully
ATHENA
I have you, love. Be strong.
CUT TO:
EXT. VALLEY OF THE QUEENS CAMP - MORNING
Gabrielle hugs herself and a smile breaks out on her face, chasing the shadows away. Ephiny, who can hear the cheers growing in frequency, is not sure what to make of this new development so she keeps even with Gabrielle, shooting curious glances at the bard who appears to be somewhere else. They cross the camp in that fashion until they arrive at the group of AMAZONS guarding the captives.
The DEAD WALKERS are huddled together, the one with amputated foot cradled in the arms of the other one. From their cuddling and easy intimacy it is obvious they are life mates. The SCOUT lies alone, bruises and scratches covering her body, some fresher than others; she was beaten and recently.
Gabrielle comes out of her waking dream and without breaking a step strides to the SCOUT. Dagger comes out and cuts the ropes and then the SCOUT is lifted to her feet like she weighed nothing.
Gabrielle, the tone meaning business, not asking, demanding
GABRIELLE
Who touched her?
Three AMAZONS step forward hesitantly, their eyes fixed on the ground. Without a word the bard goes in motion. Fingers fly out and find the necks in succession. The AMAZONS drop to their knees, bodies grown weak and consciousness fading fast.
GABRIELLE
One day I will be Queen. Remember that.
Nods from the kneeling AMAZONS and the remainder drop to one knee in deference.
Gabrielle gives time for the words to sink in and then releases the pinch. She has asserted her authority and the claim to the throne. There is now respect and fear in the faces around her. Even Ephiny is on her knee, pledging her allegiance.
Gabrielle, to AMAZONS and EPHINY, curtly
GABRIELLE
Rise.
Gabrielle, to SCOUT, pointing to the source of the cheers in the distance
GABRIELLE
You are free to go. Tell your tribe I went into their village in broad daylight and took away their Queen. Tell them they can pick her pieces here.
Gabrielle, grabbing her by the front of the tunic and bringing her face to face, growling
GABRIELLE
Tell them I can always come back.
SCOUT, terrified, chokes out
SCOUT
What are you?
Releasing her, Gabrielle turns towards the DEAD WALKERS. The SCOUT stands still for a second and then takes off, running as if her life depended on it. No one stops her.
Gabrielle approaches the DEAD WALKERS and couches near their heads. They huddle together, resigned to their fate.
Gabrielle, calmly
GABRIELLE
What are your names?
DEAD WALKER #2, scared
DEAD WALKER #2
I'm Charis and my life mate is Agathe.
Gabrielle, deliberating vocally
GABRIELLE
You can't go back and you can't stay like this.
Charis and Agathe close their eyes against their sentence. The end comes for them at last.
Agathe, croaking, pleading
AGATHE
Please, have mercy; give us quick death.
Gabrielle leans in and cuts their restraints, blade magically appearing in her hands.
Gabrielle, pronouncing
GABRIELLE
You will swear an oath of loyalty to our Queen and become part of our tribe.
Two sets of eyes spring open and focus on her. Hope surfaces in their depths.
Gabrielle, loudly
GABRIELLE
Don't thank me yet. Ten full lashes each in front of Artemis' temple for assault on royalty when we return.
Gabrielle stands up.
Gabrielle, to AMAZONS, fixing them with gaze in turn, strongly
GABRIELLE
Clean them and feed them properly, they are now our sisters. Keep them under watch until they pledge their life to our Queen.
AMAZONS, with great respect
AMAZONS
Yes, my Princess.
Gabrielle motions Ephiny over and they head out.
CUT TO:
EXT. VALLEY OF THE QUEENS CAMP - MORNING
Gabrielle and Ephiny have left the prisoners behind them and are heading for the cooking fires.
Gabrielle, glibly
GABRIELLE
Did you enjoy the show? I thought your kneeling was an inspired touch.
Ephiny, sarcastically
EPHINY
Psycho Amazon Princess was an act?
Gabrielle, lightly chiding
GABRIELLE
Ephiny, you know me by now. Was that me back there?
EPHINY
No
Pause.
Ephiny, teasing
EPHINY
Gabrielle, you are a bad Princess. Bad, bad, bad.
Gabrielle, playfully
GABRIELLE
I am so bad I am good.
EPHINY
Okay, now you went and done it. I am telling Athena and Xena everything.
Gabrielle, challenging, narrowing her eyes
GABRIELLE
You would not dare. Would you?
Ephiny runs for it but her escape is short lived. In few steps Gabrielle is on her and they go tumbling into the grass. Gabrielle goes to work with relish to ensure Ephiny fully and completely understands the meaning of the words keeping confidence and the superiority of the bard. Startled and dumbfounded AMAZONS watch the ensuing wrestling match with confusion and alarm. However, no one interferes. The cheers from the flaying in the background give the scene an odd, unreal feel.
CUT TO:
EXT. AMAZON VILLAGE OUTSIDE PRACTICE RANGE - AFTERNOON
Xena and Eponin are shooting arrows at straw targets. They are outside the walls, not far from stables. The range is crowded, part for practice, part to watch Xena and place friendly bets on the outcome. Both woman have full quivers and begin the next round. They shoot as they converse.
Xena, behind in points, huffily
XENA
Amazons, bunch of degenerate gamblers.
Eponin, placing an arrow dead center, proudly
EPONIN
You are one of us. A true Amazon bets on anything and everything; makes life interesting. I won a dagger, a jug of wine, and one guard shift off after your aborted temple entry. I and Ephiny are going to get drunk and wild when she comes back.
Pause.
Eponin, pondering
EPONIN
Wonder what is taking so long.
Xena, matching Eponin's effort hit for hit, mysteriously
XENA
Gabrielle effect.
Eponin, concentrating on the target and after releasing, considering the phrase, lost
EPONIN
Gabrielle what?!
Xena, muddling the water further, messing with Eponin
XENA
Gabrielle went fishing in another tribe and caught herself a Queen. Don't ask; I don't understand the whole thing either. Athena was not clear.
Eponin, guessing, impressed
EPONIN
That be the rumored wife?
XENA
Yes and it stays with you.
Eponin, waiting until Xena takes aim, gets a shot in, pouncing
EPONIN
Quite a catch; our Princess is an accomplished fisherwoman. You took the bait?
Xena loses her concentration and misses the bull's-eye by fair amount.
Eponin, smirking
EPONIN
That's a yes.
Xena, waiting for her opportunity and finding it shortly, sweetly
XENA
Ephiny won't know what hit her.
Eponin misses the target completely.
Eponin, protesting
EPONIN
Now that is fighting dirty.
Xena, triumphantly
XENA
Ha, hanged by your own rope.
Eponin, mock offended
EPONIN
Anyone tell you you're an ass?
XENA
Gabrielle and Athena imply it frequently but they love me so it's good.
EPONIN
Add me to the list.
Xena, meaning it, warmly
XENA
You are added under friend.
Eponin, pleased
EPONIN
Consider it mutual.
Xena, breaching the topic of interest, feigning indifference
XENA
Say friend, what is with the preparations?
EPONIN
War, what else? With the Princess leading the nation, Greece will burn.
Eponin looks around and lowers her bow. She leans close to Xena.
Eponin, in low voice, conspiratorially
EPONIN
I doubt there are any secrets or clothes between you two so hear my advice. The council of elders plans to annihilate the nearest Centaur settlement as a test of Gabrielle's dedication to the nation. Her leadership and fighting skills are not in question; her soft heart is. Man or Centaur, young or old, male or female, they all die. If you love her, you will make sure she does not leave a single soul untouched by Death.
Xena, unwittingly raising the volume and getting curious glances in return, shocked
XENA
You want her to become like me?! Reveling in massacre and drunk on bloodlust?!
EPONIN
Who better?
Xena, bitterly
XENA
Yes, who better.
They return to the competition but Xena is simply going thru the motions. Pensive expression clouds Xena's face and Eponin leaves her alone to her thoughts.
CUT TO:
INT. AMAZON VILLAGE TERREIS' HOUSE - 5 DAYS LATER/NIGHT
The door is pushed open with a leg and then the rest of Xena enters, carrying Gabrielle over her shoulder and the backpack in her hand. She shuts the door in the same manner.
Gabrielle, laughing
GABRIELLE
Put me down, you unrepentant warlord.
XENA
Sorry, this warrior is under strict orders from Athena: pick up wife and hand carry to the tub.
Xena goes to the table and places the backpack on it; she carefully sets Gabrielle down. There is a knock at the door.
Xena, to Gabrielle, firmly
XENA
Stay.
Amused eyes follow her to the door, where an AMAZON hands Xena Gabrielle's bow and quiver and departs quickly. Xena sets them by the wall and returns to the bard. She removes the armor and all weapons efficiently, setting them in a pile on the floor.
Gabrielle takes off the rest of the outfit, leaving her in her underwraps. Xena scoops her up and carries her to the bathroom.
There is a yelp and a splash. Xena walks out with a satisfied look on her face.
Athena, spitting water and sputtering
ATHENA VOICE-OVER
Xena!
Xena, over her shoulder, impishly
XENA
You did not say I could not drop her.
In answer, a soaked sponge comes hurtling at her head and she ducks. It hits the wall with a wet sound and plops on the floor.
Xena closes the door behind her and goes to spread her bedroll near the front door. She brings over the equipment and settling down, faces away from the rest of the room. Whistling, Xena cleans as Gabrielle and Athena's voices and laughter drift from the bathroom.
Xena, content
XENA
Home at last.
CUT TO:
INT. AMAZON VILLAGE TERREIS' HOUSE LATE MORNING
Xena is lying across the foot of the bed, idly juggling scrolls which cover the rest of it in random pattern. Gabrielle is at the table overflowing with more of them.
XENA
When is the war council?
Gabrielle, distracted
GABRIELLE
Three hours.
Xena, pestering
XENA
Find anything?
As she speaks, Xena throws a scroll at Gabrielle's head and the bard bats it away without looking. Steady barrage of parchment missiles begins.
Gabrielle, deflecting another projectile, irritated
GABRIELLE
What are you doing?
XENA
Bored.
Pause.
Xena, unable to help herself, throwing it in there
XENA
Gabrielle, you either do it or do the Queen. In, I mean.
Having heard Gabrielle's silent plea, the Goddess of war materializes in the room.
Gabrielle, beaming, sweetly
GABRIELLE
Athena, love, take care of the Xena.
XENA
Yes, do.
ATHENA
What's in it for me?
GABRIELLE
It's a surprise.
Athena, enthusiastically
ATHENA
I love surprises. Is my surprise wearing anything?
Gabrielle, seductively
GABRIELLE
Your sheer tunic and not a stitch more.
Athena grabs Xena and practically drags her outside in her haste as Gabrielle giggles. She shakes her head and returns to the scrolls.
CUT TO:
INT. AMAZON VILLAGE TERREIS' HOUSE LATE MORNING
Xena and Athena end up outside. The Warrior Princess easily frees herself from the captive hold.
Xena, protesting but secretly glad to be out and about doing things, pretend pouting
XENA
Hey, I'm a fragile flower.
Athena, scoffing
ATHENA
As if. What do you say we spar?
XENA
Have mercy on me, woman! Twice in one morning; save some for Gabrielle.
ATHENA
Xena, behave.
XENA
You really want that surprise, don't you?
ATHENA
Who wouldn't?
XENA
True.
Pause.
Xena, saucily
XENA
Take my breath away, Goddess.
ATHENA
You are incorrigible.
XENA
I'm me.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
INT. AMAZON VILLAGE COUNCIL HALL AFTERNOON
At the rear of the room sit the ELDER AMAZONS in front of the table. The line of benches is broken in the middle by a throne, occupied by Queen Melosa. In front, broken in two sections with a path down the middle are the seating sections. Benches line the massive room and are packed with AMAZONS. More AMAZONS line the walls. Windows are thrown wide open but it is stuffy inside and not helping matters is the armor everyone is wearing. The AMAZONS are sweaty and uncomfortable but being warriors, they manage.
Melosa, ordering loudly
MELOSA
Summon the Princess.
The doors open and necks turn to better observe the arrival. Gabrielle enters, escorted by Xena and Ephiny. They stop and wait at the entrance as Gabrielle proceeds alone. Whispers and hushed talk greet the bard on her approach to the throne.
Gabrielle is wearing her blood armor and full assortment of weapons, everything shined to high polish. She captures the attention and commands the room with her presence. Gabrielle stops before the long table and makes it a point to fix each ELDER AMAZON with a stare and even spares one for Melosa. The tension in the room is visible.
The SENIOR ELDER AMAZON stands up and hush falls over the hall. Into the stillness she speaks.
SENIOR ELDER AMAZON
Princess Gabrielle of Thrace Amazons, you are hereby named the tribe's War Leader. In five days, an army of fifteen hundred warriors will march on your command and burn the nearest Centaur town to the ground. To the glory of Artemis!
Hundreds of throats return the call, shaking the building.
AMAZONS
To the glory of Artemis!
SENIOR ELDER AMAZON raises her arms and signals for silence.
SENIOR ELDER AMAZON
When the tribes convene an Amazon nation war council in a month, you will begin the purification of Centaur lands. Soon, Greece will fall before the might of daughters of Artemis. Princess Gabrielle, don your mask and carve your destiny.
Another ELDER AMAZON reaches behind her and lifts the object wrapped in cloth. The ELDER AMAZON reverently reveals an ancient, wooden mask, before setting the relic down in front of her. It is plain, unmarked except for symbol of crescent moon painted with faded, dried blood.
Gabrielle steps up to the table and picks up the mask. She turns and raises it high above her head. AMAZONS explode from the benches and everyone is screaming their head off in blind fervor sweeping the assembly. The AMAZONS want war, need war, and now they can taste it.
In the back, Xena closes her eyes and appears to be praying. Ephiny reaches out and touches her arm in support.
Abruptly, Gabrielle brings down the mask with force and breaks it on her knee. As suddenly was the fever has descended, it leaves even faster. Rage and anger replaces it, burns in the eyes, and courses in the veins. The AMAZONS reach for weapons and quite a few draw them. Shouts rings out.
AMAZONS, yelling
AMAZONS
Treason!
Sacrilege!
Death to the traitor!
At the center of this storm of hate Gabrielle stands tall, not afraid, confident and proud. And she throws one word into the teeth of their fury and shatters their resolve and courage, blowing away the storm.
Gabrielle, projecting power, delivering the word with the full force of her personality and position
GABRIELLE
No.
She tosses the pieces of the mask in her hand to the ground and they hit with a dull thunk in the void of sound she created.
In the back, Xena and Ephiny look at each other and then back to the front. They are not sure what just happened. Staring openly, Xena drinks in the bard's presence.
Gabrielle, to the AMAZONS, in bardic voice
GABRIELLE
You don't know war. The Amazons train, skirmish, and dream of conquest, not knowing the horrible truth - you are all fools.
The AMAZONS still don't know what hit them and now her voice has them enthralled.
GABRIELLE
You don't know war. I was like you, eager and impatient, ready to fight the good fight. Then came Tracus and that Gabrielle woke up. The city became a giant funeral pyre and it was only the first. Troy was next and the death toll dwarfed what came before. Yet nothing compared to the living Tartarus that was Thermopylae. The Greek survivors of that tragedy will never be the same. There was only Death, in every breath, taste, and touch, soaking thru your pores until you too became the living embodiment of it. Many survivors went insane and the rest are scarred for life.
Gabrielle steps forward, all eyes on her.
GABRIELLE
You don't know war. Your life mates will die by the thousands, families broken, marriages shattered, and orphans grieving. When one dies, the other follows. That is the Amazon way. Who will be left? What will be left? I fell at the pass and I clawed back thru the bodies that covered me until I saw the light. I kept my mind when lesser men lost theirs. I lived and I am telling you: you don't want this.
Gabrielle, sweeping her gaze across the rows of benches, finding rapt interest
GABRIELLE
You don't know war. I learned healing at the hand of Praxiteles, my adopted father. From young age I witnessed the evil that men do to each other; touched the bloody harvest with my hands. I delivered new life as a midwife and lost those close to my heart. Praxiteles died and he was only the first. I lost another father, Xena's own, to hatred. I watched men given a second chance throw it away. And I looked into men's souls and saw the black that consumes my own.
Gabrielle turns to face the ELDER AMAZONS and Queen Melosa.
GABRIELLE
You don't know war. I am a killer and a savior, a monster and an angel. I am Gabrielle and I know war. The Amazons are staying home.
Gabrielle lets the words sink in.
Gabrielle, pinning Melosa with her eyes, coldly
GABRIELLE
And if you challenge me mother, I will drag you to Hades with my own two stained hands.
The bard turns and leaves, the steps deafening in the silent room. She walks past Xena and Ephiny without acknowledging them and they follow her out.
CUT TO:
EXT. AMAZON VILLAGE COUNCIL HALL AFTERNOON
Gabrielle strides out of building and stops a short distance out. She looks up, towards the blue sky and stands there, staring blankly into space.
Xena and Ephiny exit, then stop and look at each other again. Ephiny smiles sheepishly and gives her a go ahead gesture. She remains standing by the door as Xena approaches Gabrielle.
Xena sinks to her knees behind Gabrielle and bows her head. Salty raindrops hit the parched ground.
Xena, stricken with guilt, profoundly remorseful
XENA
Morpheus was right, I extinguished your light. I'm so very, very sorry. I rather have died in Amphipolis than hurt you.
Gabrielle stands there for long seconds and then turns and embraces Xena. She seems at peace.
Gabrielle, leaning forward and kissing Xena's head, serenely
GABRIELLE
I made my choices and I am at peace. I found love in Athena and in you. Inside, I am still the young woman who left Potidaea. None of those will change and neither will I.
Pause.
Gabrielle, affectionately
GABRIELLE
We are light Xena, now and forever. Athena has my life, you have my eternity.
Xena, tearfully
XENA
Thank you for your faith and your gift. I love you Gabrielle.
They hold the hug, Xena's cheek resting on the breastplate, content to remain in contact.
Xena, breaking the moment, asking the inevitable
XENA
You gave Queen Melosa a choice; you always give them a choice. What if ?
GABRIELLE
The greater good will demand her sacrifice and I will end her.
XENA
She can step down.
GABRIELLE
She won't.
Xena, knowing it is a lost cause but trying anyway, reasonably
XENA
If you don't kill her, the Amazons will; only one walks away from a challenge.
GABRIELLE
You know I can't do that.
Xena, pleading
XENA
Why couldn't you be different?
Gabrielle, framing Xena's head with her hands, raising it to lock their eyes, sincerely
GABRIELLE
It is in a hero to do and die. It is not in a hero to ask why.
Xena takes Gabrielle's right hand and brings it to her lips, without breaking eye contact.
Xena, kissing bard's hand, devotedly
XENA
Don't change.
Ephiny, wiping a tear, whispering
EPHINY
Oh Gabrielle, you see the truth yet you are blind to it.
Ephiny walks back into the council hall.
CUT TO:
INT. AMAZON VILLAGE TERREIS' HOUSE LATE AFTERNOON
Gabrielle sits alone on the floor, more meditating than doing maintenance on her already highly polished gear. It is quiet and peaceful in this part of the village, away from the hustle and bustle of the common areas and the plaza in front of the temple.
There is a knock on the door and then it opens. Ephiny pushes it ways in and sticks her head inside, looking at Gabrielle for confirmation. Gabrielle nods her invitation.
Ephiny enters, not bothering to close the door, signaling that this will be a brief visit. She walks towards the Princess and confirms her allegiance to the new power in the tribe by kneeling.
EPHINY
Queen Melosa has accepted your challenge; tomorrow at dawn, unarmed combat, no armor, no rules.
Pause.
Ephiny, her emotions showing, beseeching earnestly
EPHINY
She is a good woman and a fair ruler. Please make it fast and painless.
Before Gabrielle can say anything, Ephiny gets up and bolts out of the hut.
CUT TO:
EXT. AMAZON VILLAGE TEMPLE DAWN
Xena and Gabrielle are standing alone. Xena is in full armor and armed, Gabrielle is wearing nothing save her underwraps. Her muscular body shines with olive oil.
Cheer goes up as Melosa emerges from the temple, wearing nothing apart from war paint. The meaning is clear; she is wearing the colors of a death walker. The Queen's wish, long denied, has come true.
Gabrielle, groaning
GABRIELLE
Great, she is high on the Goddess juice and naked. Plan?
XENA
Kick her in the groin and don't pull short; go thru it.
GABRIELLE
That works on women?
Xena, practically
XENA
She is a suicidal demigoddess on drugs; you fight her normally and she will tear you apart. Target what her lack of unmentionables revealed, including her nipples.
Gabrielle, crossing the arms across her chest in unconscious protection, cringing
GABRIELLE
That just feels so wrong.
XENA
Yes, no woman will ever go near you.
GABRIELLE
Except you.
Xena, smirking
XENA
I am fearless. Also, I plan to tie your legs.
Gabrielle, sternly
GABRIELLE
Xena, remember the line.
XENA
I crossed it?
GABRIELLE
One sentence ago.
Pause.
Gabrielle, glancing at Melosa, melancholically
GABRIELLE
Another life for greater good, another stone around my neck, another face to torment my conscience - I choose.
Gabrielle walks towards Melosa and Xena can only watch helplessly, frozen in place. Few tears run down her face as she stands there. Watching her best friend about to send another soul to Charon, she forms fists and digs her nails into the skin, breaking it. Then Ephiny and Eponin are next to her and each take a hand. She relaxes and they entwine their fingers, the trio of them standing and holding hands, unmindful of the blood that stains them.
Ephiny, by way of explanation, supportively
EPHINY
Gabrielle told us you need a friend.
Xena, eyes misting, softly
XENA
Always thinking of others.
Ephiny, whispering
EPHINY
Always thinking of you.
Xena, being preoccupied with the fight, does not hear Ephiny's last words.
CUT TO:
EXT. AMAZON VILLAGE TEMPLE EARLY MORNING
The circle of AMAZONS forms and closes. Inside Gabrielle and Melosa circle each other wearily. Gabrielle throws the first punch and the duel begins. They feel each other out, neither committing, testing reflexes and defenses. When it comes so early in the opening of the fight, it catches everyone by surprise and especially Melosa.
Gabrielle kicks her hard in the groin and Melosa's world explodes in white pain. She goes down and curls up, screaming the agony soundlessly. Gabrielle is on her in a flash; her arms close around the Queen's neck and with a crunch break it. It is over before it really begins.
No one reacts as Gabrielle moves to the ELDER AMAZON and takes the Queen's mask. She raises it and puts it on. Only then do the AMAZONS come awake and drop on their knee, bowing to their new Queen.
Satisfied with the pledge of loyalty, Gabrielle immediately heads for Xena, the crowd parting for her; AMAZONS scoot out of the way. When she arrives, Ephiny and Eponin release Xena; all three kneel before the bard.
Gabrielle, to Ephiny, authoritatively
GABRIELLE
You are my regent. Send a word to Centaurs: the Amazons want a peace treaty. Have them send a delegation to this village.
EPHINY
My Queen.
Gabrielle, to Eponin
GABRIELLE
You are promoted to Commander of Queen's Guard.
Gabrielle, not waiting for Eponin's acknowledgement, to Xena
GABRIELLE
Walk with me.
She steps away and Xena rises and follows.
Ephiny, standing up and yelling loudly, starting a chant
EPHINY
Queen Gabrielle! Queen Gabrielle! Queen Gabrielle!
The AMAZONS leap to their feet and scream in return.
AMAZONS
Queen Gabrielle! Queen Gabrielle! Queen Gabrielle!
Gabrielle stops and turns, looking over the AMAZONS. Her Amazons.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
INT. AMAZON VILLAGE TERREIS' HOUSE LATE AFTERNOON
Athena is sitting on the edge of the bed and between her spread legs, on the floor, sits Gabrielle. Athena's hair is already done and she is returning the favor. A hairbrush rests on the blankets. The women are in their tunics.
The Goddess is braiding Gabrielle's hair as the bard lightly runs her fingertips up and down Athena's leg, stroking and caressing without thought or conscious reason, more a connection she keeps unknowingly. The silence is comfortable.
Athena, breaking it, cautiously
ATHENA
I had a talk with Artemis.
GABRIELLE
Oh?
ATHENA
Mhm. The price is our family.
GABRIELLE
You are calm about it. Does she claim our firstborn, as we feared?
ATHENA
Yes, she does. She wants Lila.
Gabrielle, exclaiming
GABRIELLE
Lila?!
Athena, her tone full of implication, importing the hidden meaning
ATHENA
Amazon Princess, future Queen.
GABRIELLE
Not the life she wanted.
Athena, gently
ATHENA
Love, you took Artemis' Queen and her conquest. Our daughter, you acting as her Chosen without question, and several markers from me was her demand. We knew there was a price to pay and I tried, I really tried but for naught.
GABRIELLE
I know and I love you for it. Does Lila know? Do others?
ATHENA
Yes, Cyrene and Hecuba send their love and accept our decision.
Pause.
Athena, wistfully
ATHENA
She had plans to find a nice young man, to feel the same love we share, to marry, to have a large family, to take care of her grandmothers, and to run the inn. I and she spent many a time lost in dreams of her future. So many hopes and wishes expressed and yearned for; so much trust. Then I sent you here and destroyed everything. I broke your heart, I broke mine, and I broke hers. I'm truly sorry, love.
Gabrielle reaches up and takes Athena's right hand. She kisses the palm and places it over her heart and covers it with her hands.
GABRIELLE
Do you feel what you do to me? You merely cover my heart and it trashes faster in its cage, trying to fly into your hand. It trusts you like I trust you and it is drawn to you as irresistibly as I am.
Athena leans over and puts her other hand on top of Gabrielle's. She kisses the blonde head tenderly.
Athena, shaken, trembling
ATHENA
What do I say to that? What can I say to that?
In answer, Gabrielle stands up and unbuckles her belt, tossing it. The tunic and trousers follow, leaving the bard in her underwraps.
Gabrielle turns and steps forward, her arms cradling Athena's face.
GABRIELLE
Shh, no words wife. Show me.
Gabrielle tilts Athena's face up as she brings her own down and with eyes wide open, she claims Goddess' lips and her soul.
CUT TO:
INT. AMAZON VILLAGE QUEEN'S RESIDENCE 4 DAYS LATER/MORNING
Gabrielle sits at a table, working on paperwork. She senses the arrival and smiles, getting up and moving from behind the table.
Shortly, Athena and Lila pop in, the former holding a bundle of belongings. Gabrielle gives the Goddess a quick kiss and hugs her daughter warmly. Athena tosses the items on the bed and embraces them both; she takes her leave soon after but not before whispering something into Gabrielle's ear that earns her a pat on the behind. The Goddess vanishes, leaving her fading laughter behind.
Lila parts from Gabrielle and examines the room with trepidation.
Lila, breaking the ice, jokingly
LILA
I always dreamed of being a Princess and it came true, just not like I expected. Not much hope of there being a Prince now, is there?
GABRIELLE
First things first, my marriage minded daughter. Besides, Athena managed a concession from Artemis. There is a Centaur town few days away. Your beloved can reside there and raise your sons. Be advised, he cannot set foot in Amazon land and it breaks with tradition. Expect retribution and enemies if you take that path.
LILA
I am no warrior.
GABRIELLE
You will be initiated into the tribe and trained in the ways of the Amazon. Ephiny and Eponin are your guardians and they are loyal friends. We leave when the negotiations with Centaurs are done.
LILA
Will you visit?
GABRIELLE
One of us will be here.
LILA
So this is my life now?
GABRIELLE
The Amazons were going to burn Amphipolis and Potidaea to the ground and start on the rest of Greece after that. I offered them a different road.
Lila, unable to hold her tongue, sarcastically
LILA
Sure mother, sacrifice me to the greater good; won't be the first time.
GABRIELLE
You are my daughter and one day you will lead these women. Remember, you are a Princess, not a Queen. The first is given, the other earned. Lila, we make our own fate.
Lila, stubbornly
LILA
You didn't answer my question.
Gabrielle, harsher than she intended, getting in Lila's face and frightening her
GABRIELLE
I kidnapped and brought a woman to her execution and ordered a whipping of two more. I poured the herbs when Queen Melosa's daughter died and I was there as Melosa took her last breath at my hands. Don't lecture me about greater good, child!
Lila, realizing she pushed too far, tearfully
LILA
I I did not know. Oh Gods, please forgive me ma.
Gabrielle, hugging Lila, stroking the hair soothingly, patiently
GABRIELLE
Yours is the largest tribe in Thrace, nearly three thousand women and girls spread across villages. You will lead them in peace and war, in prosperity and famine, in good times and when disaster strikes. They are your people now. Lila honey, it is time to grow up.
Lila, showing maturity
LILA
What will happen to me? The whole truth, I deserve it.
GABRIELLE
Artemis can't control me and has little influence on me; you are hers. You will receive an education, weapons and leadership training, and you will be bonded to a life mate. You will be molded into a proper, future Queen. So they think but they forget one thing.
Lila, hopefully
LILA
What?
Gabrielle, proudly
GABRIELLE
You are my daughter.
CUT TO:
EXT. WILDERNESS AMAZON FOREST FEW DAYS LATER/DAWN
Xena is watching Gabrielle walk ahead of her and she follows, leading Argo. Gabrielle is wearing her usual outfit, down to blood armor and full complement of weapons. One thing missing is her trousers. Xena's attention is not on the woods; it is on the bard and directed low.
Gabrielle, skipping along and twirling the staff, satisfactorily
GABRIELLE
Negotiations done, peace treaty signed, Amazons diverted from war, and I and my daughter are royalty. A good month I would say. Xena?
Gabrielle stops, turns, and follows Xena's eyes south.
Xena, confirming, brazenly
XENA
Show off those beautiful and muscular legs; strut your Elysian stuff.
Gabrielle, grinning
GABRIELLE
How many of your dreams start that way?
XENA
Half of them.
GABRIELLE
I bet.
Pause.
GABRIELLE
Xena, is that your thing?
Xena, with conviction, seriously
XENA
You are my thing. What's yours?
Gabrielle, somewhat shyly, revealing
GABRIELLE
I am partial to the top.
XENA
In that case I am cutting cleavage into my armor.
GABRIELLE
Isn't that dangerous? They are not made of stern stuff.
Xena, daringly
XENA
You won't know that unless you test them. Want to?
GABRIELLE
In this particular area I will trust your judgment.
Xena, pouting
XENA
You didn't before.
Gabrielle, meaningfully
GABRIELLE
Have to start sometime.
Gabrielle picks this instance to walk away from Xena, deliberately swaying her hips, stopping some distance away.
Xena stands there, frozen to the spot, speechless. Gabrielle's laughter brings her back and she shakes her head and catches up. They start walking alongside each other.
Xena, having regained her vocal cords, playfully
XENA
You know, this calls for ceremonial burning of trousers.
GABRIELLE
What if the weather turns?
XENA
I will think of something.
GABRIELLE
I think you are thinking now.
XENA
True.
Pause.
XENA
There are other Amazons customs we should adopt.
Gabrielle, intrigued to see where this is going
GABRIELLE
Yes?
XENA
I am leaning towards friendship link.
GABRIELLE
I love you Xena but if we were tied together for extended time one of us would murder the other one. If Athena didn't do it first.
XENA
Hmm, there is that. Pity.
CUT TO:
INT. AMAZON VILLAGE QUEEN'S RESIDENCE MORNING
Lila sits on the chair, nervously wrangling her hands. Her peasant clothes are gone, along with her former life. She is wearing plain, brown leather armor with a skirt and she shifts uncomfortably in the unfamiliar outfit.
There is a knock on the door and Ephiny enters, opening it and stepping into the space. There is someone behind her, obscured by sunlight and viewing angle.
Ephiny, officially
EPHINY
Princess, Artemis has spoken to the head priestess and requested that a recent arrival be placed with you. You will be officially introduced to the tribe as friends at a ceremony this evening. Because of your ages and experience, this will be your initiation as Amazons. Your mothers, being complete outsiders, took the harder route. Also, they already are life mates.
LILA
What is expected of me?
EPHINY
The rope that joins you stays for a year. Get caught without it day or night and you both will be whipped.
Lila, trying to be brave and not cry, in tiny voice
LILA
I understand.
Ephiny, seeing the state the girl is in, sympathetically
EPHINY
It is awkward at first but after a few days Eponin and I had fun with it. We run thru the village seeing how many people we could trip. We lengthened it to ridiculous amount and drove our instructors crazy with our antics. We tied various noisemakers to it and dragged them behind us. We were bad.
LILA
Amazons are allowed to have fun?
Ephiny, winking
EPHINY
You are young and royalty. Live it up; you will get away with lots of things.
Lila, her spirits buoyed, remembering what her ma told her about allies
LILA
I like you.
EPHINY
Good. Ready to meet your mate? I am told she knows your mothers.
LILA
Sure.
Ephiny walks to the door and beckons the waiting figure inside.
Teresia enters the room, her meager belongings in one hand.
Teresia, shyly
TERESIA
I'm Teresia.
FADE OUT: