by
Editor
Bleu Gato
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TEASER
FADE IN:
INT. APOLLO'S TEMPLE SIDE CHAMBER NIGHT
Xena lies on the makeshift straw pallet, dead to the world. She is bundled to her chin with blankets, leaving her pale face sticking out. Gabrielle is wrapped around Xena like a human octopus. Her open medical kit is on a table nearby; herbs, strips of linen, and bowls in various sizes litter the top of it. There is dried blood on Gabrielle's tunic, blankets, and various spots and things around the room. The look of the things is grim and the poor light and smokiness of the oil lamps exaggerates the effect.
Gabrielle, tired yet pushing on, with hoarse voice
GABRIELLE
The Wind and the Sun were arguing over who is the strongest. To settle the dispute, they decided to let a passing Traveler be the judge. Whoever caused the Traveler to remove his cloak first was the winner. Eager, the Wind went first and blew mightily on the poor man. The Wind huffed and puffed but the more he tried, the tighter the cloak was drawn around the body. When the Wind finally gave up, the Sun came out and the Traveler took off his cloak.
Gabrielle reaches out with a wet rag and wipes Xena's mouth. She squeezes the cloth and lets the moisture drip on the lips and seep inside.
Gabrielle, kindly
GABRIELLE
You liked that one? I have another.
Pause.
GABRIELLE
The Tree was mocking the Bush about being scrawny and weak. The Tree proudly showed off the mighty trunk and the long branches. To which the Bush replied: That might be but worry about the axes and saws which come for you and pay me no mind.
Steps sound outside and stop at the door. Shortly, it slowly swings open and Athena enters with a tray of food. She uses her hips to close the door as Gabrielle watches with interest. Athena knows it is not the food that caught Gabrielle attention, so she does her best to exaggerate her walk as she approaches and then does a full spin in front of her appreciative audience to finish the show. Athena bends and gives Gabrielle a quick kiss. A grateful smile is her reward, for the company and the meal.
Gabrielle unwraps herself from around Xena and making room, reaches under the covers. She brings Xena's hand with her when she scoots to the edge of the bed, maintaining the physical contact. The bard swings her legs down, taking a sitting position on the edge of the bed.
Athena waits till her wife settles down and places the tray on Gabrielle's knees; she rests beside the bard.
Athena, placing a hand on Gabrielle's knee and gently stroking with a thumb, concerned
ATHENA
How you holding up?
Gabrielle, closing her eyes with a heavy sigh, worriedly
GABRIELLE
I am afraid. If I stop touching, if I stop talking, if I stop and move away for a second, she will pass.
Athena, wholeheartedly
ATHENA
Then don't. I will gladly take care of you, love; you look after Xena.
Tears come in abundance and Gabrielle's composure breaks as the events catch up to her. Athena takes the tray away and places it on the bed. Rising, she stands in front of Gabrielle and waits patiently. After a short moment of hesitation, Gabrielle tightly wraps her free arm around Goddess' waist and presses her face into the tunic. The bard sobs as Athena makes soothing motions on her back. Not pressing; simply being there for her wife.
Calming down, Gabrielle raises her head and opens her mouth to speak. She finds her words swallowed by a kiss from Athena.
Athena, replacing her lips with her fingers, comfortingly and reassuringly
ATHENA
Shh, you did nothing wrong. You stabilized her and then went to triage the others.
Gabrielle, miserably
GABRIELLE
I failed her.
ATHENA
Love, Apollo agrees that you done a remarkable job. You remained impartial and true to the healer ideals. You saved lives and Xena's. You gave her a chance; this is now her battle.
Gabrielle, beating herself up, stubbornly closing her eyes to the truth
GABRIELLE
I should and could have done more.
Stronger measures called for, Athena showers Gabrielle's tear strained cheeks and closed eyes with kisses until they bloom open and fill with warmth and affection that reflect the one bestowed upon her by the Goddess.
Athena, having already decided, matter of fact
ATHENA
We are; she is not alone, our family will take shifts.
GABRIELLE
Hecuba and Cyrene are yours?
Athena, firmly
ATHENA
Ours.
GABRIELLE
And the Gods?
ATHENA
By birth, not by choice. I found one in you and yours. It was the best day of my long life. It is every day I am with you. I love you.
Gabrielle, brightening further, playfully wipes her wet face on Athena's tunic, leaving wet spots. She gives a shameless smile to the amused Goddess and they break the one-armed embrace, with Athena resuming her seat from earlier.
Gabrielle, feeling better, affectionately
GABRIELLE
Thank you, I love you too. What now?
Athena, returning the tray to its previous location, tone tinged with care, insistently
ATHENA
Eat.
Gabrielle, giving the Goddess an inquiring yet pointed look
GABRIELLE
Did you ?
Gabrielle has her answer right away as Athena guiltily looks away.
Gabrielle, warmly
GABRIELLE
Join me, love.
They start eating in friendly silence, sharing the food and feeding.
CUT TO:
INT. APOLLO'S TEMPLE SIDE CHAMBER LATE MORNING
Things have changed. Gone is the dry blood, healing supplies are organized, and the bloody bandages that were near the door are gone. Lila snores lightly on a bedroll beside the bed. On the other side sits an empty chair. Xena is in the same position and her condition is unchanged. Next to her is Gabrielle, sleeping in close proximity and physically touching.
The door opens and Cyrene walks in, taking in the scene. She quietly makes her way to the pallet. She tenderly strokes Xena's hair and kisses her on the head. She collapses into the chair as Gabrielle's eyes fly open and fasten on her. Cyrene notices one hand is no longer holding Xena and instead wields a knife.
CYRENE
Hello daughter.
Gabrielle, yawning
GABRIELLE
AAAAAUUUUUUUOOWWWHH. Mom, I wish we met in better time. How is mother?
Cyrene, joking
CYRENE
Taking over the inn, now that she runs the kitchen.
Gabrielle puts away the blade and attaches her hand back to Xena. Cyrene sits with hands folded in her lap.
GABRIELLE
Amphipolis has been good for her.
Cyrene, with a hint of anger, darkly
CYRENE
Leaving Potidaea was good for her.
Pause.
CYRENE
I am sorry. I did not mean she told me things. If that monster comes around I will run him thru myself.
Gabrielle, calmly
GABRIELLE
People change, father started. It does not alter what passed, but that is for Hades to judge when he is called before him.
Cyrene, surprised
CYRENE
You will speak for him?
Gabrielle, reproachfully, rebuking
GABRIELLE
He is my father.
Cyrene, before she can think, blurting
CYRENE
That honor belongs to Praxiteles.
Gabrielle, unable to stop the sudden watering of her eyes, sadly
GABRIELLE
True.
Cyrene, quietly
CYRENE
What happened?
For a moment there appears to be no chance of an answer, but then the past spills with the tears running down Gabriele's face.
Gabrielle, pain clouding her eyes and sharply biting her insides, sniffling
GABRIELLE
He was sick and recovering in his house. The worthless scavengers found him and and
Pause.
Gabrielle, taking a breath to steady herself, voice breaking
GABRIELLE
butchered him for some cured skins and few trinkets.
Cyrene, sympathetically, consoling
CYRENE
Oh child, I didn't know. I'm sorry again.
Cyrene shifts to the pallet, positioning on the edge. As Gabrielle burrows into Xena for comfort, Cyrene begins to brush Gabrielle's hair with her fingers, soothing her.
Cyrene, wistfully
CYRENE
You lost much in so short a life.
Gabrielle, defiantly drawing a line at Xena, strongly
GABRIELLE
Not her, not Xena.
Pause.
Gabrielle, guessing the source of stories about home life
GABRIELLE
Lila?
Cyrene, nodding
CYRENE
Athena tells her everything and she us; we hear more than we care to know. At first I was wary and Hecuba had a hard time not dropping on her knees every time she saw her. Now she is family.
Pause.
Cyrene, finally getting the courage to ask the first question on her mind, timidly
CYRENE
How is she?
Gabrielle, knowing who Cyrene refers to, honestly
GABRIELLE
Hanging between life and death; she has to choose.
Cyrene, quickly
CYRENE
And if she doesn't?
Gabrielle, mind made up, serenely
GABRIELLE
We will take her home and care for her.
Cyrene, stunned
CYRENE
You will give up your journey?!
Gabrielle, immediately
GABRIELLE
Yes.
Pause.
Gabrielle, smiling
GABRIELLE
We love Xena and she is part of us. Truth be told, Athena finds the domestic, tranquil life to her liking. Living and loving, surrounded by kin, is a brand new experience. On Mt. Olympus she is alone in a crowd, in Amphipolis she is part of it. To her it is not a sacrifice, it is a dream come true.
CYRENE
And you?
Gabrielle, with conviction
GABRIELLE
I made my choice long ago. Xena was right, I chose this; I chose her and I chose Athena. It is clear now.
Cyrene, amazed, with wonder
CYRENE
You don't really know how special you are, do you? Aphrodite may be the Goddess of Love, but you are love.
Gabrielle, lost for words, stuttering
GABRIELLE
I I don't know what to say to that.
Cyrene, motherly
CYRENE
You don't have to. Rest now; everything depends on you. I believe you will bring my daughter back; if anyone can cure Xena, it's you. You belong together.
Cyrene hums a lullaby until Gabrielle's eyelids close and she drifts off. A sleepy head pops up from the other side of the pallet and eyes half-closed gaze at her expectantly.
Lila, curious and eager
LILA
Is ma coming home and staying?
Cyrene, troubled
CYRENE
Not without a price, child.
FADE OUT:
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
EXT. APOLLO'S TEMPLE SIDE ENTRANCE 1 WEEK LATER/EARLY MORNING
Unlike the two other sides of the large temple where the support buildings cluster, the western one has expenses of open grass, trees and gardens. In one such space, in the privacy of the trees surrounding a small clearing, Gabrielle is resting peacefully. Her head and upper shoulders are on Athena's lap and the Goddess is playing with the bard's hair.
ATHENA
Tired?
Gabrielle, blinking back from a light doze, sleepily
GABRIELLE
Talked all night.
Athena, wryly
ATHENA
Nothing new there.
GABRIELLE
You don't complain.
ATHENA
I am prejudiced.
Gabrielle captures Athena's right hand and starts kissing the palm.
GABRIELLE
Share.
ATHENA
One of the things I love about you is the words. They caress and touch, excite and enflame, nay, boil my blood. It is like they have weight and presence.
Gabrielle, seductively
GABRIELLE
Are you planning to take advantage of me?
Athena, breathily
ATHENA
Very soon, love.
Gabrielle places Athena's hand in both of hers and presses it to her neck pulse point, keeping it there, covered by hers. Athena picks up the increased beat and smiles down at Gabrielle, who returns a bright and toothy version of the same.
Athena, resisting the temptation temporarily, bluntly
ATHENA
How is she today?
Gabrielle gives her a pout and then her expression turns somber.
Gabrielle, uneasily
GABRIELLE
Stable but unconscious something is wrong, I feel it.
ATHENA
You know her well.
Gabrielle, appeasing
GABRIELLE
Nothing like we share, just different.
Athena, unperturbed
ATHENA
I am not jealous of what you two have.
Gabrielle, affectionately
GABRIELLE
Love, you are closer than any and the distance shrinks daily. Part of me is scared I will be lost in you; large part welcomes it.
Athena, teasing
ATHENA
My, this will not do. We can't have any separation now, can we?
Gabrielle, coyly
GABRIELLE
Why Athena, you going to fill the gap?
In answer, the Goddess moves from under the bard, supporting her for the duration, and picks up Gabrielle from the ground. She cradles the bard in her arms and Gabrielle throws her hands around Athena's neck and brings their lips together.
GABRIELLE
Mmmm, I think you will.
ATHENA
Keep kissing like that and we will not make it to our room; the whole temple will witness our union.
Gabrielle, her eyes blazing with fire, daringly
GABRIELLE
Works for me.
ATHENA
Naughty bard.
Athena hurriedly walks to the side entrance door before her legs give out; shaky limbs that have nothing to do with the bard's weight but everything to do with the emotions Gabrielle's touch stirs. For the bard's hands are suddenly very busy and knowledgeable.
CUT TO:
EXT. APOLLO'S TEMPLE SIDE ENTRANCE/GARDENS EARLY EVENING
Gabrielle, Athena, and Cyrene stand outside, tunics shifting in the breeze that rose up with the departure of the sun. The moment of decision is at hand.
GABRIELLE
The wounds have closed nicely and her body is healing. Her mind is a different story.
CYRENE
Will it help to stay here?
Athena, looking at Gabrielle and receiving a confirming nod, decisively
ATHENA
We can take better care of her at home.
CYRENE
Yours?
Gabrielle, reassuringly
GABRIELLE
She will not lack for love or attention.
Cyrene, resignedly
CYRENE
Amphipolis it is.
ATHENA
Cyrene and I will get Lila and pack our things; we will take Xena. Love, check your patients and say your goodbyes. I will return when you are ready.
Athena hugs and kisses Gabrielle and then walks off with Cyrene. Gabrielle stands there for a minute and looks over the gardens one last time. Turning, she enters the temple, her walk weighted and her limbs leaden.
CUT TO:
INT. GABRIELLE & ATHENA'S HOME XENA'S ROOM - 2 WEEKS LATER/NIGHT
Gabrielle, with Athena's help, finishes putting the light tunic on Xena and settles her on the bed. She picks up the basin with dirty water and Athena drapes the washing rag and damp, large linen on her arm. Thus loaded, she heads for the door which Athena gets for her.
Gabrielle almost collides with Cyrene and only just avoids the crash. Cyrene lets her pass and enters the room. She looks at her daughter, pallid and unmoving, and something inside her snaps. She rounds on Athena.
Cyrene, angry
CYRENE
I want, no, I need to know what is going to happen. Gabrielle won't tell me, the friend in her won't give me a straight answer. Athena, is my daughter going to wake up?
Athena, soothingly
ATHENA
With each passing day there is less chance, but we must remain optimistic.
Cyrene, not buying it, lashing out
CYRENE
I don't want to hear comforting lies!
Seeing the hurt expression on Athena's face and in her eyes and realizing how much the Goddess and her family have done so far, she regains control of her emotions with difficulty.
Cyrene, contritely, pleading
CYRENE
It is worse not knowing. Please tell me.
ATHENA
Probably not.
Cyrene screams like a wounded animal and flees the room before grief can catch up to and overwhelm her. Few seconds pass and Gabrielle runs into the room and looks at Athena.
Gabrielle, making a statement, in measured tone
GABRIELLE
You told her.
ATHENA
She deserved it.
Gabrielle, gratefully
GABRIELLE
I know. Thank you.
They look at each other and smile sadly, unspoken understanding passing between them. Gabrielle leaves to find Cyrene and closes the door behind her.
Athena tucks the blankets around the silent form and kisses Xena on the head.
Athena, softly
ATHENA
You might be unconscious Warrior Princess but that does not mean the drama around you stops. You are a troublemaker.
Athena picks up an unresisting arm and places Xena's hand in her lap as she starts her watch. She covers it with hers. With the other she unrolls one of Gabrielle's scrolls and lays it out flat.
Athena, observing
ATHENA
Your light might be dimming but good friends are there to the end.
Athena begins to read out loud.
ATHENA
I sing of prophecy and the darkness in souls. I sing of mother's sacrifice and her selfless love. I sing of Xena the hero and Gabrielle the protector. I sing the tale: Cradle of Hope.
CUT TO:
INT. GABRIELLE & ATHENA'S HOME XENA'S ROOM - LATE AFTERNOON
Gabrielle sets aside the empty bowl and begins cleaning Xena's face and neck. She carefully and delicately wipes the skin and then dries it with a square of linen. Athena walks in on that part of feeding ritual.
Athena, lightly
ATHENA
Why, just yesterday she was in diapers and breastfeeding and today she is hand fed. I think by forty she will be ready to leave the nest. Our little Xena is growing up.
The pensiveness in the air vanishes as both women laugh themselves into tears.
Gabrielle, clutching her hurting stomach, weakly
GABRIELLE
Thanks.
Athena walks up to Gabrielle and hugs her from behind. She leans in and kisses the top of the bard's head. Gabrielle tilts her head back and Athena walks the line of kisses down her face and over the nose until she reaches her desired destination. They break reluctantly and Gabrielle questions her wife with her eyes.
Athena, loathe to break the mood, bowing to inevitable
ATHENA
What does your experience tell you?
Gabrielle, dropping her head to her chest, recalling
GABRIELLE
Praxiteles taught me that five-six weeks is the point of no return. They don't wake after that or they do but are not right in the mind. Many were struck on the head; Xena has that advantage.
ATHENA
What did you tell Cyrene last night?
Gabrielle, truthfully
GABRIELLE
If I was alone, I would take care of Xena for the rest of her natural life. With a wife and daughter, the answer is different. No love, I am not choosing you and Lila over her. Well, honestly, in a way I am.
ATHENA
Gabrielle, you are the selfless to a fault. I will support or take the decision out of your hands. You don't have to do this alone or at all.
Gabrielle, deciding
GABRIELLE
We make our own fate. Xena has two months; I will make it painless when her appointed hour arrives.
Pause.
GABRIELLE
Could you leave us? I want to talk to her alone.
ATHENA
You did not have to ask but I liked that you did. Yes, please do, she needs to hear this from you. I will wait outside if you need me.
Gabrielle, vulnerable yet holding things in, shakily
GABRIELLE
Please wait for me outside.
Athena kisses Gabrielle's head and gives her a squeeze with her arms. She then leaves the room, giving Xena and Gabrielle the privacy they require in this moment.
Gabrielle, looking at the closing door, fondly
GABRIELLE
I love you. You can leave it open.
The door stops its motion and stays ajar as a sharp breath is drawn at her words.
Athena, lovingly
ATHENA
I love you, Gabrielle. I love her too.
Then slowly and deliberately, it closes all the way and Gabrielle is alone with Xena.
CUT TO:
INT. GABRIELLE & ATHENA'S HOME XENA'S ROOM NIGHT
It is Lila's turn to take a shift in the chair. She sets the finished scroll in a growing pile and picks up another to read; Xena is comatose, not a flicker of motion and no response to her efforts. Lila is interrupted by the arrival of her mother.
Athena sits on the side of the bed and twisting, lowers her upper body. She sets her elbows at the sides of Xena's shoulders and frames Xena's face with her hands. Lila clears her throat shyly, asking discretely if her presence is still required. Athena nods and Lila shifts in the chair nervously, not sure if she wants to be here for what is shaping to be a very personal moment. Athena closes the remaining distance and is now inches from Xena's face.
Athena, intently
ATHENA
I don't fear the end; it is not a concern when centuries pass as days. The founding of Athens is but yesterday. With each passing second the Gods grow more remote from this mortal plane. Zeus and Artemis indulge in the pleasures of the mortal flesh frequently a desperate attempt to feel connected that leaves them more empty and hollow with each act. Others, like Ares, find other distractions. Few find their favorite and ascend them to Olympus or have a series of them in Greece. Lost in their divinity, none feel what I do; they are all fools.
Athena brushes Xena's bangs away from her face with left hand.
Athena, earnestly
ATHENA
I pity them. The Goddess has set down her station and let the woman inside lead her life. Vestiges remain, lurk around like shadows, and only spring forth with the infrequent use of my powers. There is simple joy of living an ordinary life in Amphipolis, raising a family, and being a part of the community. And each day the desire to return diminishes. But one day I must.
Athena kisses Xena's temple.
Athena, tearfully
ATHENA
I envy them for this too shall pass and I will be alone again. Gabrielle grounds me to my humanity. Without her, I will be lost again, worse for knowing what I had and lost. The very idea of her falling at Thermopylae tore me apart. I won't and can't imagine the actual moment.
Lila is now fidgeting, uncomfortable and feeling she is intruding on something she has no business witnessing. She does not yet realize there are many forms of love.
Athena, keeping the right hand cradling Xena's face, reaches down and across Xena's chest and takes Xena's right hand into her left. She intertwines their fingers and places their joined hands on her heart.
Athena, imploring
ATHENA
Everything has a price. I pay mine gladly and willingly and so do you, my friend; you are paying it now. Xena, you think that your life went to a good cause but you are wrong. Your wounds are bound and mending, Gabrielle's skill kept you from Hade's judgment. It is not your time and yet here you lie, unresponsive.
Athena, crying, her voice rising until she is shouting at the end, emotionally
ATHENA
Fight Xena! We dressed your wounds, took care of you, and held you. Fight! You were never alone from the moment you fell on the temple steps. Fight! The promise wife made goes for me and Lila; one of us or Cyrene is always in contact with you. Fight! We are family and we are not letting you go Gabrielle loves you I love you Fight! FIGHT, DAMN YOU!!!
There is no change of expression or movement but the hand she is holding squeezes hers weakly. Once. Twice.
Athena brings Xena's hand to her lips and kisses it fervently.
Athena, joyously, shouting
ATHENA
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Lila, instantly on her feet, alertly
LILA
I will wake ma.
Lila rushes out of the room, her bare feet pounding on the wooden floor.
Lila, voice moving away, screaming at the top of her lungs
LILA
Ma! Ma! It's Xena!
CUT TO:
INT. GABRIELLE & ATHENA'S HOME XENA'S ROOM MORNING
Gabrielle, dressed in a tunic, is sleeping with her back to the wall and lower half on the bed. Heavily bandaged, Xena is laying between Gabrielle's legs, her head resting on the bard's stomach. Gabrielle's arms support her. Athena is next to the bed in the chair, dozing occasionally. She alone is somewhat conscious, watching for further signs. Xena is surrounded by love and caring.
Xena slowly awakens, opening her eyes with some difficulty. Athena instantly brings a waterskin to her parched lips.
Athena, softly
ATHENA
Small sips, easy does it.
Xena, unable to speak, thanks her with her eyes as the cool liquid soothes her mouth and throat. It feels like heaven sliding down. Her fuzzy mind detects a hint of herbs in the water and unbidden, a memory comes to her.
Xena, spilling drops, giggling, in raspy voice
XENA
Herby goodness.
The laugh turns to cough and her body shakes, the pain sending her under once again. As she drifts off, Gabrielle's gentle hands are there holding her still and a lulling voice whispers from above.
Gabrielle, sleepily
GABRIELLE
Hush, no talking. We have you; you are safe. Sleep.
Xena smiles as she sinks down into happy dreams. She is back where she belongs - in Gabrielle's arms. Safe.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
INT. GABRIELLE & ATHENA'S HOME XENA'S ROOM NEXT DAY/EVENING
Xena is propped upright on the pillows. She looks drawn and exhausted. Her body stretches limply on the bed. Athena is on the bed on one side and Gabrielle bookmarks Xena on the other. Gabrielle's legs are crossed under her and she is facing Xena. The bard is holding a bowl with rich broth and feeding her with a spoon. It is taking all the concentration Xena has to open her mouth and swallow the liquid. Any spills are promptly wiped by Athena.
Gabrielle, after another successful delivery, cooing
GABRIELLE
Good girl. Good num nums, huh?
Xena, indignantly
XENA
I am injured, not two.
Gabrielle, grinning, continues the baby talk
GABRIELLE
Is my widdle Xena grumpy? Is she?
Xena, growling
XENA
I am going to kill you when I can move my arms.
Athena, philosophically
ATHENA
Motivation is good.
XENA
I am going to murder you too.
ATHENA
The woman changed you, washed you, and fed you. Ingrate.
Xena, irritated
XENA
Go to Tartarus.
Giggles are her answer and she stubbornly focuses on the utensil and ignores them.
CUT TO:
INT. GABRIELLE & ATHENA'S HOME XENA'S ROOM EARLY MORNING
Xena slowly finishes chewing the latest forkful and turns her head away to signal her intent. Cyrene sighs and puts away the hardly touched plate of scrambled eggs, feta cheese, tomatoes and olives. Xena avoids her mother's eyes; she is propped on pillows in a sitting position on the bed. Cyrene is in the chair that is become the permanent fixture by the bed.
Cyrene, motherly
CYRENE
You have not said a word and you have no appetite. What's wrong?
Xena, brushing her off, brusquely
XENA
Nothing.
CYRENE
I see. Will you talk to Gabrielle at least?
Silence is her answer. Not deterred and being a mother and Gabrielle's confidant, she reaches out and brings her unresisting daughter into her arms.
Xena eagerly accepts the embrace, her resistance and composure melting away. Abruptly words come spilling out, tumbling out on their own and Xena can't dam the flood.
Xena, bitterly
XENA
I lost my daughter like I lost everything in my life. Lyceus dead, Solan gone, father murdered, Gabrielle married, Hope and Sophus dead; life of sorrow and regret. All that is left is the pain.
Cyrene, shocked by the revelations, scrambling to make sense of it, confused
CYRENE
Who is Solan? Sophus, the stableman Sophus? Wait, when did you have a child, this Hope? With whom?
Xena, agitated, despairing
XENA
I abandoned him and I killed her; I am a bad mother. I am a monster!
Cyrene, distressed
CYRENE
Xena, please calm
XENA
Leave me!
Gabrielle rushes into the room and bodily removes protesting Cyrene with ease. Xena limply falls on the bed and lies there, helpless, unable to make more than small movements. Her limbs listen but can't obey, drained of strength with disuse and injuries.
Gabrielle, to Cyrene, brooking no dissent, with authority
GABRIELLE
I am a healer and what I say goes. You disturb my patient, you get kicked out.
She shuts the door in the stunned woman's face. This takes both Cyrene and Xena by complete surprise.
Xena, shocked
XENA
Wow.
GABRIELLE
Yes?
Xena clams up again and refuses to engage.
Gabrielle climbs into bed and draws Xena to her, arranging the unresisting woman so that her head is on bard's chest. Grief pours out and soaks her front. Gabrielle strokes the hair soothingly and holds her tightly until the sobs change to sniffles. Then she lays Xena on her back and gets up. She brings the wash basin over and cleans hers and Xena's watery faces. Lifting Xena up to a sitting position against the pillows, she offers a mug of water and slowly helps her drink the contents. Red, watery eyes gaze back at her in devotion as Gabrielle takes a seat on the edge of the bed and captures Xena's hand on her lap in the now familiar gesture. Fingers intertwine by mutual need.
GABRIELLE
Better?
Xena, sincerely
XENA
Happy.
Gabrielle, squeezing her hand, playfully
GABRIELLE
Mine.
Xena, smiling weakly
XENA
You are one of a kind, you mad woman.
Gabrielle, philosophically
GABRIELLE
They say everyone has a double somewhere in the world.
XENA
I met yours and she was definitely on the way to becoming a he.
GABRIELLE
Wait, another Gabe?
Xena, betraying her fears, hesitantly
XENA
You are not letting me go?
Gabrielle, strongly and with conviction
GABRIELLE
Never.
Xena, gratefully
XENA
My loving bard, I have a story for you. It all started with the Fates
CUT TO:
INT. GABRIELLE & ATHENA'S HOME XENA'S ROOM LATE MORNING
Xena drifts off at the end of her tale and Gabrielle brings the mug with cool water to her lips. Xena drinks thirstily, emptying the entire contents and then sinks back into the fluffy softness behind her back, exhausted. She does have strength left to try to reestablish the physical connection and guessing her intent easily, Gabrielle obliges.
Gabrielle, tenderly
GABRIELLE
You love her so much.
XENA
Did
GABRIELLE
Do.
Xena, melancholically
XENA
If I was here, what happened to several months of my life? Did I imagine it? Did I imagine her? Did I love him?
GABRIELLE
She is real, you did not dream it. You love them both.
Xena, not knowing anymore and wanting to be assured, apprehensively
XENA
How do you know?
Gabrielle, simply
GABRIELLE
It is not that I know; I feel. You do, too.
Xena, pleading
XENA
I want to believe yet how do I reconcile the facts with memories?
Gabrielle, emotionally and strongly
GABRIELLE
Don't you dare, let alone anyone tell you, least of all yourself, that Hope does not exist and she is not your daughter. You brought her into this world and you raised her, however short the time. You are her mother, you are not wrong, and she lives on. Have faith. I do.
Pause.
Gabrielle, vowing solemnly
GABRIELLE
Xena, Hope will live forever. I will scribe every detail and moment you spent with her. I will give you the tangible proof you seek. We will start this evening if you are up to it.
Xena, quietly
XENA
Thank you, my friend. I would like that very much. I wish you could have met her.
GABRIELLE
I too.
Pause.
Gabrielle, mulling something over, thoughtfully
GABRIELLE
I need to talk to the wife. Will you be okay? Do you want someone here?
Xena, apologetically
XENA
Tell mother I am sorry and ask her to come by in an hour. For now I want to be alone.
GABRIELLE
We will be next door.
Xena, honestly and affectionately
XENA
You are closer than that; you are in my heart.
Gabrielle, returning the shared sentiment
GABRIELLE
And you in mine.
Gabrielle returns Xena's hand and adjusts her position to vertical so she can rest. She shifts the blankets for comfort and fit and gently kisses Xena on the forehead. She departs, leaving Xena to her thoughts, having dented the doubts and fears.
CUT TO:
INT. GABRIELLE & ATHENA'S HOME XENA'S ROOM EARLY EVENING
Xena is taking her dinner in bed. Athena and Gabrielle sit on the same side of the bed, with the Goddess taking over the meal duties.
GABRIELLE
Xena, we are proud of you. You stepped into that life and lived it with hardly a ripple.
Pause.
GABRIELLE
Athena, we are stopping at four children; five maximum.
Athena intently focuses on her task, seemingly fascinated in the chore to the extent of all else. It does not fool Gabrielle.
GABRIELLE
Love, look at me.
Xena, to Athena, ribbing
XENA
Someone is in trouble.
GABRIELLE
For someone who can barely move, your lips are flapping an awful lot.
Xena concentrates on not drooling on herself.
Athena, conciliatorily
ATHENA
Yes, dear.
GABRIELLE
Don't you yes dear me. You don't have to birth them.
Xena, unable to resist, wading in bravely
XENA
Best part of taking over another body the squat and push part was seven times done. I just caught the end of the trail.
Athena, wickedly
ATHENA
And missed all the fun that went into it.
Gabrielle, piling on
GABRIELLE
By number five they were practically falling out.
Xena, not amused, grumbling
XENA
Tell that to Hope who took all night.
Gabrielle and Athena look at each other with affection and silent understanding. They share a brief kiss and Athena resumes her work. Xena wonders what that was about then tears up about the daughter she lost. It hurts. It always will.
Athena, promising
ATHENA
Gabrielle, I will give you everything you want and nothing you don't. Always.
Pause.
Athena, to Xena, comfortingly and with genuine sorrow
ATHENA
Xena, I'm sorry for your loss.
Xena falls silent as emotions overwhelm her and spill down her face. Athena leaves the bed and looks for a place to set the bowl. Gabrielle crawls up to the wall and takes a seat next to Xena. She throws an arm around Xena's shoulders and looks at Athena expectantly. The Goddess immediately comes over and settles down between the bard's spread legs; an arm goes around her waist and holds her in place. Xena rests her head on Gabrielle's shoulder as Athena places her cheek against the bard's chest. Gabrielle supports her chin on top of Athena's head.
GABRIELLE
Everyone good?
Athena turns her head and places few small kisses on her wife's neck and collarbone. Xena sniffles her answer.
Gabrielle, making a statement, warmly
GABRIELLE
It was different with Solan.
XENA
I was not capable then of loving him; of loving anyone. I did not make the same mistake twice. Hope was loved.
Pause.
Xena, remembering, fondly
XENA
She was my reflection, blue eyes and dark hair. She had her father's nose and mouth. Hope was the best of us and I loved her from the moment I first felt her stirring in me.
ATHENA
Were you happy?
XENA
I was loved and I loved in return. And yet I missed you and Gabrielle. There was a void in my life.
GABRIELLE
I understand. I felt the same way when I met Athena; it was like finding a part of yourself you didn't even know was missing. Then one day you look and there is your other half and you wonder how you survived without it.
ATHENA
You just know and then you do something about it or walk away.
Gabrielle, kissing Athena's head, chiding lightheartedly
GABRIELLE
Speaks a woman who almost bolted when things got interesting.
ATHENA
I got scared; you moved too fast. No worries, I got over it quickly.
Gabrielle, grinning
GABRIELLE
And how.
Pause.
GABRIELLE
It was the best decision of my life. At the time it was right but it still felt like a reckless plunge. How would you put it, love?
ATHENA
I wish we married on the night we met.
GABRIELLE
Athena!
ATHENA
I can't be apart from you, love.
Xena, listening contently and sharing in their banter, sadly
XENA
I envy you that.
Gabrielle, to Xena, reassuringly
GABRIELLE
You have us. Not the same, just different.
Athena, to Xena
ATHENA
You are family.
Pause.
Athena, to Gabrielle
ATHENA
Now I wonder why we waited so long. Looking back, we knew right away. I admitted it early and you fought it. You met your match but surrender did not come easily.
XENA
The innkeepers thank the Gods. Well, one God. Well, one Goddess.
Gabrielle, whispering
GABRIELLE
I have a confession.
Xena, encouragingly
XENA
Share.
ATHENA
Have courage.
GABRIELLE
I felt I owed Xena a chance.
XENA
Thank you.
Gabrielle, to Athena
GABRIELLE
Are you upset?
ATHENA
No, I trusted in us from the beginning.
GABRIELLE
Your faith was rewarded, love.
Gabrielle, to Xena
GABRIELLE
Yours too, Xena.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
INT. GABRIELLE & ATHENA'S HOME XENA'S ROOM NIGHT
Gabrielle sets the chamber pot out of the way and returns to find Xena troubled.
Gabrielle, correctly guessing what is eating Xena, patiently
GABRIELLE
It is a strength to place yourself in the hands of another. You would do the same for me.
XENA
I would take advantage of you. What is this going to cost me?
GABRIELLE
Nothing, freely given
Xena, nodding understanding, the words familiar
XENA
from the heart. We going on the road again?
GABRIELLE
When you recover.
Gabrielle walks over to the bedside table and picks up the scroll. She yawns widely and turning, prepares to leave. A hand shoots out and grabs her; Gabrielle is not surprised.
XENA
You and Athena believe in Hope; my mother thinks otherwise.
Gabrielle, cutting to the truth, bluntly
GABRIELLE
Cyrene is wrong. Xena, your child lives on.
Gabrielle, touching the side of Xena's head
GABRIELLE
In here.
Gabrielle, placing a hand on Xena's heart
GABRIELLE
And here.
Pause.
Gabrielle, adamantly
GABRIELLE
Hope is your daughter, now and in the beyond. Mourn her loss but love her always. We and family will be here for you; to talk, to listen, and to comfort you. You are not alone in your pain; you will not suffer by yourself unless you chose. Even then one of us will do their best to share your burden, because we care. And because we love you.
Xena, admiring
XENA
You gave up your daughter for me. There is no doubt with you; there never was. I am the weak one.
Gabrielle, pointedly
GABRIELLE
Don't set me on a pedestal; you did the same for me.
Xena, stubbornly
XENA
Gabrielle, you always put me first. You keep saving me with every word and gesture, every moment you spend with me. You don't judge, you accept. I want to return that trust and tell you about my past. Not the happy childhood; the bad times. You get to hear the complete and uncensored version straight from the source.
Gabrielle, warningly
GABRIELLE
Some things should remain private.
Xena, making it final
XENA
Not between us; not anymore.
Gabrielle looks into Xena's eyes and considers the offer. Xena stares back at her, unblinking. Long moments pass in silent judgment.
Gabrielle, satisfied
GABRIELLE
Yes.
Gabrielle helps Xena return to a sitting position and takes a seat on the side of the bed.
Xena, flatly
XENA
After Cortese I had a talent for the sword and compulsion to use it. Others heard and joined me; like flock together, I guess. The harvest got too bloody and the bounties numerous so we headed for the sea. Raided a ship in port, slaughtered the crew and dumped them in the harbor. Kept a few as instructors and when they outlived their usefulness, they joined their brothers under the waves. We preyed on merchants and destroyed the small boats for fun. We would hang the fisherman on his own mast, lock the rudder and sail, and place bets if he would beach or veer off.
Gabrielle, uncomfortable
GABRIELLE
Xena
Xena, reminding Gabrielle, unapologetic
XENA
No secrets.
Gabrielle, steeling herself, resigned
GABRIELLE
Continue.
XENA
One day the cargo was Caesar. He was my first conquest but not the first victim; there was already a long line of those in front of him. Charon was very busy during those years
FADE OUT:
THE END