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| 1 | INT. LAIR OF THE FATES - daytime |
The Fates, Lachius, Clotho and Atropo, are seated in a row studying an ancient looking glass that hangs on the wall. The glass reflects a gang waging a merciless attack on a small village.
They look more like fight fans caught up in a good bout than the goddesses that control destiny.
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CLOTHO
(clutching a large tapestry) This is so exciting.ATROPO
Which one is Hector?CLOTHO
(points at the screen) This one. ATROPO
And he's to marry Penelope, the bar wench in Xanthi? CLOTHO
Why are you so apprehensive? LACHESIUS
She always gets this way after vacation. ATROPO
It wouldn't be the first time we've returned and all the pieces were out of place. CLOTHO
(unfurls a tapestry which depicts the battle in progress. She points to the action as she describes it) It's all perfectly arranged. Look, Hector kills Arthos, who'll come charging into the tavern looking for a fight. Penelope will be swept away by his valor, they'll fall in love with their first kiss and she'll remain in Xanthi instead of leaving town as she'd planned. ATROPO
Than they'll have the baby? CLOTHO
Eventually. Than we will have Ulysses, destined for greatness from birth. LACHESIUS
Brilliant work sister. Euripides himself could not have plotted a better hero's story. CLOTHO
Airtight. What could possibly go wrong? |
Xena's battle yell is heard through the action in the mirror. Xena comes charging into view on Argo to save the villagers. A minor scuffle ensues and Hector is felled by Xena's sword.
The Fates are in stunned silence, Finally...
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CLOTHO
All my hard work ruined! In one fell swoop she's wiped the page clean. Where did she come from? ATROPO
See I knew this would happen! LACHESIUS
Relax, this is all fixable. The entire plan hasn't been destroyed. We still have Arthos and Penelope right? CLOTHO
Arthos means nothing, the only important player left is Penelope. Forget it the whole scheme is wasted. (grasping) Unless you think one of our sisters could possibly assist us? ATROPO
I'm not going to be the one to tell our sisters this time. Remember when we needed Eirene to add a few hours to that battle because Hercules was running late? I still owe her two favors for that. LACHESIUS
(Walks back to the mirror, deep in thought) Maybe this time we can get our other players to sort this out. |
Back on the mirror. Xena and Gabrielle are walking along a road.
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GABRIELLE
It was pretty lucky that we took this route to Xanthi. XENA
Well you were the one who wanted to take the scenic route. GABRIELLE
There's nothing wrong with shaking plans up every now and again. Besides you saw how badly those people needed our help... everything worked out for the best. |
end of teaser
| 2 | int. TAVERN - DUSK |
Xena and Gabrielle enter. At the end of the bar is Lada, a combination class clown/warrior; fun loving & rowdy but still a dedicated fighter. Lada is often described as the blonde Xena, which drives her crazy.
As Xena walks towards a table someone purposely trips her and she falls. Annoyed Xena realizes it's Lada.
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LADA
(mock surprised) Xena. You should really watch where you step, you're going to get hurt one of these days. XENA
(rising angrily, ready for a fight) I was just about to say the same. GABRIELLE
(jumping between them) Lada, Xena it's Lada, so nice to see you again. We were just going to get something to eat, if you'll excuse us. (pushes Xena away). LADA
Always a pleasure to see YOU Gabrielle. |
Xena and Gabrielle sit down at a table.
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XENA
You didn't need to interfere like that, I could have handled myself. GABRIELLE
Why must you two always act like... XENA
Competing warriors? GABRIELLE
Children. XENA
She started. Besides, it's not my fault. Everything I do, she needs to try to top, it's a strain for me as well. |
A member of Lada's group, Joel, comes over with a decanter of wine. He wedges Gabrielle into her seat against the wall.
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JOEL
Gabrielle. Xena. Lada asked me to take you this jug of wine. GABRIELLE
Thank you, that's very kind but completely unnecessary, we're just here for a quick meal and... JOEL
No really, it is Lada's way of congratulating you on the good work you did in Abdera. GABRIELLE
I can't believe word has reached Xanthi already. XENA
That must have burned her butt. (Xena looks toward Lada) JOEL
Gabrielle, please tell me about Abdera. I've never been there... |
While Joel is droning on to Gabrielle, Xena seizes the opportunity to saunter over to the bar. Lada is spinning tales to the patrons.
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LADA
So there were at least a thousand of them and all I had with me was (looks around and picks up one of the thin staffs resting against the bar) a staff (beat) half this size. |
The crowd gasps in amazement. A lecherous bar patron reaches over and grabs Lada's necklace (six rings on a silver chain).
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BAR PATRON
Did you get this in Maroneia? |
Without missing a beat Lada grabs his forearm and an audible crack is heard. Lada hangs on to his arm still squeezing.
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LADA
Don't ever do that again. (releases his arm allowing him to slide to the floor in pain) (to Xena in her previous jovial tone) I'm recounting my battle in Maroneia, inspiring the local townsfolk if you will. XENA
Right, excuse me for interrupting. Who did you say you battled? Wasn't it some toothless, blind old hunchback with no arms? |
Chuckles from the crowd.
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LADA
Since you're asking, there was an army of at least a thousand... |
Ooohs and Aaaahs from the crowd.
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XENA
Oh right, a thousand (beat) toothless, blind old hunchbacks with no arms. |
The crowd breaks into guffaws. Infuriated, Lada knocks the contents off a nearby table.
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LADA
All right that's it (sits down in an arm wrestling position) You and me Xe let's do it. |
The crowd cheers them on.
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XENA
Xe?! My pleasure. |
Gabrielle finally breaks free and rushes over.
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GABRIELLE
Must you two do this every time. Can't we all just... |
A rogue warrior bursts through the door aiming a crossbow at them, this is Arthos. Xena and Lada simultaneously grab a staff from the bar and toss it at him like a spear. One penetrates into his heart and the other penetrates through the first striking the exact fatal spot.
| 3 | INT. LAIR OF THE FATES - MOMENTS LATER |
The scene in the tavern is playing on the looking glass.
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ATROPO
That was Arthos? CLOTHO
(hunched over a tapestry, sewing furiously) Right on schedule. LACHESIUS
So how is it going? CLOTHO
(throws the tapestry down) Argh. LACHESIUS
(picks it up) That well? |
The three study the tapestry.
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ATROPO
Your players don't have any motivation. CLOTHO
What? ATROPO
Lachius what was your idea again? LACHESIUS
To have Xena return Hector from the Lair of the Undead and unite him with Penelope before she leaves Xanthi. ATROPO
That's a lot to accomplish before sundown, even for Xena. We really need to apply the pressure. CLOTHO
I see what you're saying, she needs a reason to really throw her heart into this. ATROPO
Exactly. |
Inspired, Clotho starts sewing furiously. Atropo returns to the action on the glass. Her eyes follow Lada's actions.
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ATROPO
(to herself) Another victim of our lackadaisical behavior. (long pause and finally to Clotho) And I want Lada included in this. CLOTHO
You're adding something else?! ATROPO
You're on a roll, just do it. Since we're making amends, I want to put something else right... or at least partially right. |
| 4 | TAVERN - MOMENTS LATER |
The patrons have started to disburse but Xena and Lada are still caught in their spell of competition.
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LADA
I hit first. XENA
Absolutely not. LADA
Let's go check.
GABRIELLE
Excuse me, that looked like it was meant for one or both of you. I think we forget the competition and maybe LEAVE. LADA
But we didn't finish arm wrestling. XENA
You'll just have to wait til next time for me to beat you. |
Xena and Gabrielle exit. Lada looks back at the motley group she was with before with disgust and than back at Xena and Gabrielle.
| 5 | EXT. CAMP GROUND Day |
Gabrielle is writing in one of her scrolls while Xena is trying to start a fire.
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GABRIELLE
So Xena tell me, what's Lada's story anyway? XENA
Typical hot shot, big mouth, thrill seeker. GABRIELLE
Don't hold back. XENA
You don't agree? GABRIELLE
She seems pretty intent on helping people. XENA
Do the ends justify the means? GABRIELLE
Huh? Maybe. Anyway, when are you going to start fishing? XENA
Hungry? (Xena is starting to sense another presence around them. Lada has tracked them and is hiding in the tree above playfully dropping pebbles down at Xena.) GABRIELLE
Very. XENA
Than if you want to get the fire started, I'll... (Xena is getting crazed by the pebbles and draws her chakram ready to sail it into the trees when Lada reveals herself and jumps down.) LADA
Stop. It's just me. XENA
That certainly wasn't the smartest thing you could have done. LADA
Relax. (Holds up a sack) I bring lunch.
GABRIELLE
Thank Zeus. XENA
You've redeemed yourself... slightly. |
| 6 | INT. LAIR OF THE FATES - MOMENTS LATER |
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LACHISUS
(enthusiastically) Clotho the wheels in your mind are always turning. ATROPO
We need to get everything back on course, are you sure this will work? CLOTHO
I know drama, I know motivation... ATROPO
But you don't always do your research! CLOTHO
(waves her away with her hand) Bah! |
Zantos, a local villager enters meekly.
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LACHESIUS
Yes? ZANTOS
I need to ask your intervention, I will do anything you require. LACHESIUS
Sisters... our messenger is here. |
| 7 | EXT. CAMPSITE - MOMENTS LATER |
Xena, Gabrielle and Lada are seated around the fire eating.
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GABRIELLE
That necklace is very unique, it must be very special to you. LADA
These rings belonged to my brothers and sisters. You know the other day some street thief tried to steal this off my neck... so I ripped his arm out and shoved his hand down his throat. XENA
(disgusted) We're eating! |
Argo is heard making noise off in the distance.
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GABRIELLE
I'll go check on her. |
Gabrielle leaves.
XENA
(awkward beat and finally) So Lada, what brings you to Xanthi? LADA
There's an orphanage here that I look in on. I wanted to get back sooner but I was delayed. Not my fault, I was battling this cyclops when he knocked me into a bottomless pit. It took forever to climb out, so... XENA
You did not climb out of a bottomless pit. LADA
Why do you say that? XENA
Because they're called bottomless for a reason, there's no bottom. You never stop falling so you can't climb out. LADA
Maybe you can't... Warrior Princess, hah! XENA
Hah?!? |
| 8 | EXT. CAMPSITE - MOMENTS LATER |
Gabrielle returns to find Xena with Lada in a choke hold.
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GABRIELLE
I was only gone for a minute, will you two stop it! |
The two warriors release their grips and back away from each other.
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LADA
Relax, I'm leaving anyway. XENA
(sarcastically) So soon? LADA
Gabrielle, thank you for your hospitality. I'd look into those spots if I were you. |
Lada exits. Gabrielle is covered with measles-like spots.
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XENA
Did you walk into something?
GABRIELLE
No, I don't think so. Look they're everywhere, all over my arms and legs... |
Zantos comes running into the campground.
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ZANTOS
(out of breath) Xena, thank Zeus I found you, I have a message for you from the fates. (hands over a piece of paper) XENA
(a beat and than realization) So they've done this to Gabrielle. ZANTOS
Yes. Your friend is very sick. If you fail to do as they say, she'll die.
GABRIELLE
What do they want you to do? XENA
This note says I have to return someone named Hector from Achilles Lair.
GABRIELLE
You can't go alone. XENA
You're certainly not coming.
GABRIELLE
It's too risky for one person. ZANTOS
She's right... from all the legends I know about the Lair, I can only imagine two Xenas together being able to accomplish this. XENA
Two Xenas, huh? |
| 9 | EXT. orphanage - MOMENTS LATER |
Gabrielle is seated on Argo, it is obvious she is unwell. She and Xena spot Lada playing catch with a group of small children.
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XENA
There she is, not her usual crowd though. How are you feeling?
GABRIELLE
(bravely) I'm O.K. Go sign up your new partner. XENA
One time only partner. Wait here. |
Lada is tending to one of the smaller children who has fallen. She is patient and extremely maternal.
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LADA
There you go, good as new. XENA
Lada, I need to speak to you. I need you're help with something. LADA
Me? You're asking me? XENA
First, I have to find a place for Gabrielle and... LADA
Gabrielle can stay here, but (enjoying the moment) I just got back, now you tell me you desperately need me... XENA
What do you want to join me? LADA
(delicious pause) I'll let you know when we return. Besides, this could be fun... |
| 10 | EXT. wilderness - DAWN |
Lada is seated behind Xena riding Argo.
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LADA
Are we there yet? XENA
Stop asking me that. The entrance should be right around here. LADA
Did anyone ever tell you that you have a beauty mark on your back that looks like a bear? XENA
Only one other person... he's dead now. LADA
(changing the subject) Haven't we been riding a long time? XENA
It just seems that way. LADA
You could be a little more sociable. XENA
Fine, what would you like to talk about? LADA
Want to trade war stories? What was the hardest battle you ever fought or is the Warrior Princess thing just a lot of hype? XENA
The hardest battles are the internal ones. LADA
I meant battles with blood and guts and stabbing and... XENA
(rolls her eyes) Thrill seeker. LADA
You really don't know me at all... XENA
Sssh. We've got company. |
Xena dismounts Argo.
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XENA
(to the hidden gang) First of all, I know you're here. Second, we have nothing to steal anyway, so just show yourselves and let us pass, it will be a lot easier on everyone involved. |
A knife comes hurtling towards Xena from behind a tree. She catches it inches from her face. Lada joins Xena.
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LADA
Great catch. |
The gang attacks and in moments Xena and Lada are fighting back to back, picking them off one by one. Lada is enjoying working with the Warrior Princess.
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LADA
Xena, duck! |
The two duck down, a punch thrown at Lada sails over their heads.
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XENA
Jump! |
The two jump, missing a staff swipe at their legs coming from Xena's side.
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LADA
Bend over! |
Confused, Xena obliges, Lada braces against her back and fells an attacker with a high kick, than continues her roll over Xena. They are now face to face.
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LADA
How was that? XENA
Just watch what you're doing. (pushes Lada's head down and nails an oncoming assailant with a punch). |
The gang is quickly disposed of, except for one, who a tired Lada approaches.
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LADA
(points to an imaginary mark on his shirt) Hey Apochles, what's that? |
When the warrior looks down, Lada nails him with an uppercut punch.
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LADA
I can't believe that still works. XENA
You know him? LADA
Apochles, just a street thug. I thought he was dead. XENA
(looking down at the lifeless body) Maybe. |
| 11 | INT. ORPHANAGE - MOMENTS LATER |
Three of the children between 8 and 10 years old, Janna, Tyro and Mycene are huddled outside Gabrielle's door.
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JANNA
Is she up?
GABRIELLE
Yes, she's up. |
They burst in with a tray of food for her.
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JANNA
Evenor said we could bring you your food when you were awake.
GABRIELLE
Thank you. JANNA
Why are you all spotty? TYRO
Janna, we weren't supposed to ask that.
GABRIELLE
That's OK. I don't know but Xena and Lada went to get something to make me better. JANNA
Lada is always doing stuff like that for us... I hate it when she's gone but when she comes back she's always got such great stories. GABRIELLE
I'll bet. Why don't you tell me one. MYCENE
Lada travels all over, fighting to save people in villages like ours. TYRO
(play fighting) She sends bad people to Tartarus where they belong.
GABRIELLE
Wow, that's pretty impressive. JANNA
Her rings carry the spirits of her brothers and sisters and they make her fight. MYCENE
They're all on the other side like our families.
GABRIELLE
Did you know that our loved ones on the other side can hear our thoughts? JANNA
Really? |
Gabrielle starts telling the children stories.
| 12 | INT. CAVE - MOMENTS LATER |
Lada studies a torch on the wall and slowly removes it.
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XENA
Watch, those could be rigged. LADA
I checked. I heard this place was full of traps. |
Xena takes the torch from her.
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XENA
I don't want to find out. I'll lead, you watch the rear. |
They start to make their way through narrow, winding passageways.
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LADA
Your rear? (off Xena's look) Come on, lighten up. We just connected, we just had a great win. XENA
This isn't about winning. |
Xena holds out the torch illuminating the surroundings. All at once the true sense of dread about the place is made painfully clear. The walls of the caves are lined with the skeletons of intruders who never made it out and a sense of despair hangs thickly in the air.
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XENA
If we're going to get out of here I need you to focus. LADA
(with mock seriousness picks up a skull and examines it but than uses it as a ventriloquist dummy) Relax, I know what I'm doing. XENA
(exasperated, snatches the skull out of Lada's hand) Ugh, I've about had it! This would serve you better as a reminder that it's easy to get INTO this place... |
Xena suddenly rushes Lada and throws her against the wall as a stream of arrows whizzes right past them.
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XENA
A little reminder of life and death, perhaps. |
The two warriors hurriedly continue their way through the labyrinth of tunnels, still arguing. Their unseen enemies, the Mitars, guards of the Lair, are in hot pursuit.
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LADA
I don't need any more reminders, thank you very much. And I've about had it with your holier than thou, black leather, I have so much more purpose than you, Lada, attitude. XENA
I'm supposed to believe you take anything seriously. It's all fun and games to you. |
Lada pushes Xena through an entranceway as another onslaught of arrows sails past. She uses her sword to deflect the arrows and follows after Xena. They've stumbled into an outer chamber inhabited with residents of the lair. Lada runs right into a large man's chest and falls backward.
LADA
(shocked) Sorry. (Xena offers a hand and helps her to her feet) He didn't even react. XENA
He's probably numb. These are the people waiting to be judged, trapped between the Elysian Fields and Tartarus, who knows how long he's been here. LADA
(to the man) Sorry, again. We're looking for Achilles, can you tell us where we might... |
This time he reacts violently and pushes Lada away. A scuffle erupts with everyone in the corridor, they've suddenly sprung to life.
Footsteps are heard approaching from another room and we hear a young man's voice offscreen. It is Solan.
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SOLAN
(off screen) What's going on out there? (enters the corridor) All of you stop this right now! XENA
Solan? |
| 13 | INT. CAVE TUNNEL - MOMENTS LATER |
Solan is sullen and drawn, on his way to becoming like the others.
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SOLAN
You have to wait here to be summoned to meet Achilles. XENA
Have they told you why you're here? SOLAN
No. What are you doing here? LADA
We're here to bring some guy named Hector back. SOLAN
(disappointed) Oh. XENA
(gives Lada a dirty look) Brilliant. (to Solan) Solan, in my worst nightmares I never thought you were here... SOLAN
Why shouldn't I be here? XENA
You don't deserve this. You're an extraordinary person with a beautiful heart, who... SOLAN
(interrupts) If I'm so great, than why did everyone who ever matter to me leave me? XENA
I know there are a lot of things I never had the chance to explain to you... |
As Xena is talking, Solan walks to the other side of the room, where there is a mirror-like image on one of the walls that seems to have the consistency of water. He touches the water and it ripples slightly. Images slowly come in to view. It's Xena giving the infant Solan to Coliopus.
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XENA
Solan, you have to let me explain. This is feeding off your anger and worst thoughts. |
While Xena is talking, Lada walks up to the mirror and touches it. The scene changes to Lada ten years earlier playing with her five younger siblings near what was once their family home.
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LADA
(surprised) It's my family! |
ON SCREEN
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KID 1
Lada, we want to go with you. KID 2
Come on, can't we come? |
BACK IN THE LAIR
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LADA
It's the day they were killed. I went to market and left them behind. (to her image on the screen) Tell them yes. Don't leave them again! |
ON SCREEN
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LADA
No, you can come next time. |
All the children start to plead with her.
BACK IN THE LAIR
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LADA
Say yes this time! |
The scene morphs to show a pack of raiders beginning their attack on the village. The children are confused, crying out for Lada while they futilely scramble for cover.
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LADA
(picks up a rock and throws it into the mirror, the images fade away) Stop! XENA
(pulls Lada away) It's not real, it's only an image. LADA
But it really happened, just like that. I don't know why I didn't take them, I always brought them with me... XENA
You couldn't have known that would happen. LADA
When I got home that day the entire village was burnt to the ground. I dug through the ashes for days until I retrieved these (grabs the rings). I couldn't believe that suddenly I had absolutely nothing, no family, no home. I needed some proof that they actually existed. Now I carry them around with me in battle as if it could ever avenge that (gestures to the mirror). XENA
It wasn't your fault. |
A thumping sound is heard in the outer room.
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SOLAN
That's the signal from the guards, you have to let them know why you're here. XENA
(reluctantly) I'll be right back. |
Xena exits. Lada is staring into the mirror with her hand poised to touch it.
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SOLAN
Don't do it. LADA
I would love to see their faces again. SOLAN
That's what draws you in but the images only get worse. LADA
Worse? SOLAN
Yes, but you don't need that, you have their rings. I mean, at least you have some proof that you were part of a family. LADA
Father gave us these rings the last Solstice we shared together, it was such a great night. I can't believe I'd almost forgotten that. (beat) Xena's right, you do have a good heart. SOLAN
The best day of my life was the day my mother agreed to let me travel with her. Up until that point I wasn't even sure she liked me. I wish I had proof that that day existed. LADA
It's pretty obvious how much your mother loves you. (points to her eyes) Your eyes always betray your true feelings. So your proof is how you feel right here (pats his chest) or (tickles his stomach) maybe here. |
A minor tickle fight erupts.
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SOLAN
I give up. What was that for? LADA
I thought you needed to laugh. SOLAN
(steps back) No more tickling! LADA
OK. Do you like jokes? |
| 14 | INT. ACHILLES LAIR - MOMENTS LATER |
Xena is presenting her case to two guards. She hands them the note.
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XENA
If you read this you'll see that I was sent by the fates to... GUARD #1
Xena? XENA
Yes. GUARD #1
Pentos, I served in your army, I was killed outside of Athens. XENA
Sorry. PENTOS
(hands note to Guard #2) Take this in right now! (to Xena) No that's OK, with my intense military background I was able to get this Guard's position, it shaves time off your stay. XENA
Pentos, since I was able to help you out, why don't you fill me in on this place and Achilles? |
| 15 | INT. ACHILLES LAIR - MOMENTS LATER |
Xena and Pentos walk in on Lada and Solan laughing and joking.
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LADA
(at the end of an off-color joke) So she says, "You're Thor, I'm so Thor I can't..." XENA
(interrupts) Lada! (to Solan) There's so much I need to explain to you but I can't right now. GUARD #1
Xena, you'll have to go in now or wait indefinitely. LADA
(to Guard) Relax. XENA
(desperately trying to convince Solan) You know I will get you out of here, I won't rest until you have peace. |
Solan stares into Xena's eyes.
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SOLAN
(earnestly) I know. |
Xena and Solan embrace. Lada watches Solan as he tries desperately to fight back his tears and be brave.
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PENTOS
Xena! He won't wait. |
Xena slowly lets go and backs away from him and starts to exit with the guards and Lada. Lada stops in her tracks.
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LADA
(after a deliberating pause takes off her necklace and throws it to Solan) I want you to hang on to that for me, okay? SOLAN
But... LADA
Proof... that your mother was here... so you'll stay away from that thing (points at the mirror). SOLAN
Thanks. |
| 16 | INT. ACHILLES' LAIR - MOMENTS LATER |
Achilles, Xena and Lada are seated at a large table arranging their deal. Achilles is a blaise, club kid type. A snake has started to wrap around Lada's ankle. She flinches, grabs it and tosses it aside.
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XENA
Lovely place you have here. ACHILLES
This is the lair of the undead if you've forgotten, it's not supposed to be pleasant. XENA
You sound like you don't enjoy your work. ACHILLES
I'm not here by choice Xena but a job needs to be done. I received your note, the Guard has gone to retrieve Hector. XENA
I hope he's still here. ACHILLES
What do you mean by that? XENA
I happen to know security around here isn't what it once was. LADA
(throwing off another snake) You mean he's had an escape? ACHILLES
(annoyed) This whole thing has been a nightmare. XENA
Well than, let me set everything right. I'll return Apochles, if you release Solan to the Elysian Fields. LADA
Apochles, I knew he was dead. ACHILLES
Solan? Ah yes, that sweet boy that's been so hurt by his dear mother. Love to but it's not that easy. He's stained with Dahak's spirit. The gods can't trust any sign of Dahak in the Elysian Fields. XENA
That wasn't his fault, besides there's no way he can change that. ACHILLES
I suppose not. XENA
Than you're saying he's trapped here forever. ACHILLES
I don't know if I'd say forever, (beat) than again maybe I would. LADA
What if we return Apochles and you release Solan back to the outer world? This way he can prove himself again as a living person, good or evil. Get this Dahak stuff off him. |
The guards enter with Hector.
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XENA
You know what this would do to your reputation if it got out. ACHILLES
(hesitates) Fine the boy will be released when one of you re-kills Apochles. XENA
(Reaches out to shake Achilles hand) Than we have a deal. ACHILLES
(Reaches out than pulls back) One stipulation. You must make no attempt at contacting the boy. LADA
That's not fair, why? ACHILLES
You said it yourself Lada, he needs to prove himself good or evil. Can he move past his anger? Do you think he can (beat) Mother? XENA
(Grabs his arm and shakes) It's a deal. |
| 17 | INT. ACHILLES LAIR - MOMENTS LATER |
Xena and Lada are examining a doorway that leads into a room with a large window-like opening with daylight streaming through. Hector, a nebbishy, ancient Greek, Woody Allen-type is stressing.
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HECTOR
What's the hold-up? XENA
We have to make sure this is safe. HECTOR
But Achilles sent us this way. LADA
Like he cares if we get out. |
The sound of the Mitars is once again growing louder.
|
HECTOR
(melting down) Come on, we have to get out of here. You don't know what they'll do to you. |
Hector rushes through triggering a trap that causes the floor in the room to start to dissolve, like sand through an hourglass. In a matter of seconds he is sucked down through the hole.
|
XENA
You'd be surprised, I can be very creative. |
In seconds, the floor is completely gone. Xena and Lada enter, surveying the pit from a ledge along the sides of the wall. Hector is sprawled out on the floor, surrounded by snakes.
|
XENA
Great, more snakes. |
Lada has edged over to the window opening.
|
LADA
Xena, this does lead outside, no traps. |
As Lada is speaking the floor starts to re-form from the ledge inwards. Xena quickly wedges her chakram into the wall and feeds her whip through.
|
XENA
Lada, come here. Lower me down and I'll pull him out before he gets sealed inside. |
| 18 | INT. SNAKE PIT - MOMENTS LATER |
Xena is lowering herself down into the pit. Hector is desperately pulling snakes off himself.
|
XENA
Hector, grab onto my waist. Hector attaches quickly. XENA
Lada, start pulling! As Xena climbs up with Hector, Lada is also pulling from above. From Xena's point of view the floor is seen closing quickly around the whip. XENA
Lada, faster. |
| 19 | INT. ACHILLES LAIR - MOMENTS LATER |
As Lada is hoisting them, a Mitar's arrow suddenly pierces through her shoulder.
| 20 | INT. SNAKE PIT - MOMENTS LATER |
Xena and Hector suddenly jerk down, unaware of what's happened.
|
XENA
Lada, this is no time for jokes! |
Xena climbs furiously to the top. She and Hector disappear through the opening seconds before it seals up.
| 21 | INT. ACHILLES LAIR - MOMENTS LATER |
Xena and Hector find Lada wounded, hanging valiantly on to the whip. Upon seeing them make it out, Lada passes out. Another arrow sails in, Xena catches it inches from Lada's neck. Xena scoops Lada up and guides Hector to the exit.
|
XENA
Quick, out that way, it's safe. |
| 22 | EXT. ACHILLES' LAIR - MOMENTS LATER |
Xena's tending to Lada's wound. Hector is still stressing.
|
XENA
At least there's no poison on the arrow. HECTOR
What are you going to do now? XENA
I'll have to pull the arrow clean through. HECTOR
I meant about getting us out of here. XENA
(classic look) First things first. Give me that (points at his vest). Lada, you know how this works. LADA
I'm ready. |
Xena pulls the arrow completely through her shoulder and uses the vest as a tourniquet.
|
HECTOR
Will she be able to travel? I mean, am I right in believing we don't have much time? |
Xena approaches him at the cliff's edge.
|
XENA
(conspiratorially) You're right, we'll have to leave Lada behind. Here's the plan, I'll scale the sides of the mountain to find a safe passage for you to climb down. Than we'll take off. HECTOR
Really? XENA
(pushes him off the cliff into the water) No. LADA
(impressed) I'm definitely going to use that. XENA
(checks her wound) Lada, thank you for giving your rings to Solan, I know how hard that was for you. LADA
He made me look at those rings and remember my family's lives instead of their deaths, for once. He deserved them, they'll help him hang on to some good thoughts until he gets out. XENA
Thanks to you. (beat) Ready to go? Before Hector drowns. LADA
Ready when you are Xe. |
| 23 | EXT. SMALL VILLAGE SQUARE ON THE ROAD to Xanthi - MOMENTS LATER |
Xena, Lada and Hector arrive in a small village that's been recently ransacked by raiders. The bodies of the people who stayed behind to fight off their attackers litter the streets.
|
HECTOR
(mock disappointed) Oh what luck, too late to help. LADA
I'm going to take a quick look around. |
Lada starts searching through the huts.
|
XENA
Hector, if you're going to impress Penelope... HECTOR
Now, that's the thing... it's not that I don't appreciate being rescued, especially when you did initially kill me... XENA
True... RAIDER
But I never even met this woman, what happens if I don't want to get married? XENA
Here's the dilemma... if you refuse to go along with the plan, well... I want to kill you, Lada, on the other hand wants to torture you first. HECTOR
And? XENA
And if you don't go back, I've got nothing but time on my hands. |
A scuffle erupts in one of the huts. Lada and a raider emerge. The raider is holding a little girl of about a year old along with some stolen objects under one arm. With his free hand he is brandishing a knife.
|
RAIDER
Get back. LADA
(non-plussed) Just put her down and I'll let you run away. RAIDER
Just leave and let me finish my business here, and... XENA
The business of killing and looting, that's not going to happen. But Lada and I are extremely tired so Hector here (pushes Hector forward) is going to take care of this. HECTOR
Do you really need any of that stuff? I don't see why we even have to discuss... RAIDER
(taunts Hector by thrusting his knife in his face) Xena says you're to take care of me (laughing) well... take care of me... HECTOR
Look, there's no need for this kind of... we are adults here, and... |
|
LADA
I couldn't bear that anymore. Besides, I was dying to try that out. XENA
(pulls the chakram from the raiders chest) That's not how you use it. (to Hector) You! We were right behind you! You used to be a warrior, what was the problem? HECTOR
I only became a warrior to please my father. It would have killed him if I turned my back on the family business. XENA
But instead it killed you. HECTOR
Ironically. LADA
(to Xena) Working with you just gets more and more interesting. |
| 24 | INT. ORPHANAGE - MOMENTS LATER |
Evenor, a kindly old woman and keeper of the orphanage, looks in on Gabrielle to find her telling stories to the children.
|
EVENOR
Children, I thought I told you to leave Gabrielle alone.
GABRIELLE
Oh it's okay. I haven't had this great an audience in a long time. EVENOR
No matter, you need your rest. (to the children) And I believe there are still some chores that haven't been finished. |
|
GABRIELLE
Finish your chores and I'll tell you more stories later. |
Evenor sets a fresh glass of water in front of Gabrielle and collects the empty plate.
|
GABRIELLE
Evenor, I want to thank you again for your kindness. EVENOR
It's my pleasure to help out a friend of Lada's, especially one who can entertain the children for so long.
GABRIELLE
How long have you known Lada? EVENOR
Years. Someone dropped her here after a terrible battle, I didn't expect her to pull through. But you know Lada, after a few days she was up and around and playing with the children. |
Janna bursts back into the room.
|
JANNA
Evenor, there are some men on horses riding toward the house. |
| 25 | INT. TAVERN - MOMENTS LATER |
Xena, Lada and the baby are at a table. Xena is trying to prep Hector to win over Penelope.
|
XENA
Okay, there she is. LADA
Let's see that Hector charm. |
Hector tries to strike a pose but is a complete nerd.
|
XENA
(trying desperately) That's it, killer, she's all yours. (pushes him towards Penelope) LADA
(shouts after him for further bolstering) Way to go handsome. (to Xena) We're doomed aren't we? XENA
We've never been so doomed. |
| 26 | INT. ORPHANAGE - MOMENTS LATER |
Apochles and the remains of his gang of thieves have broken into the orphanage in an attempt to loot it.
|
APOCHLES
We need some supplies, so just get out of the way. GABRIELLE
(mustering up her strength) Look, everything here is spoken for so why don't you just leave? |
Apochles takes a step forward and Gabrielle bashes him with her staff. The other four step in and get swatted back as well.
|
APOCHLES
(jumping in again) Xena has taught you well. (hit back again) But she's not here now (another hit) and you'll get tired soon (and again). |
Hearing this Janna runs out in an attempt to help.
|
JANNA
I'll help you Gabrielle. GABRIELLE
Janna! APOCHLES
(scooping the child up and holding a knife to her throat) Still want to battle? Now we'll trade. Anchos will stay behind and gather the supplies we need. I'll keep this one for a little extra security. |
| 27 | INT. LAIR OF THE FATES - MOMENTS LATER |
The fates are once again gathered around the mirror watching the action in the tavern on the glass. Xena and Lada are at a table playing cards.
|
CLOTHO
It's all coming together again. ATROPO
There's still a way to go. |
| 28 | INT. TAVERN - MOMENTS LATER |
|
XENA
(throws down a card) How's the baby? LADA
Fine. She's fast asleep. (Looks at Xena's card and throws down another) Another resident for Evenor. XENA
(throws a card) How do you two handle all those kids? LADA
(beaming) They're really good, they all have their chores and (catches herself, throws a card) Uh-huh, you're very clever Warrior Princess. XENA
What do you mean? LADA
Nothing is more boring than stories about other people's children, and there you are leading me right down a path of cute kid stories. XENA
I love all your stories. (off Lada's look) Well your face certainly lights up a lot more when you're talking about them than any battles. LADA
I can't stop battling, not when there are families out there being torn apart. (throws down a card) Besides, what do you want me out of the competition? XENA
There is no competition Lada, you've already beaten me. You took your pain and turned toward good... I turned toward destruction. (picks up the card) Remember that scene Solan played for us, that was a horrible time in my life. I convinced myself that I was giving him away to keep him safe. The truth is I was too blinded by my own hateful plans to realize how much I was giving up. Don't make that same mistake. LADA
I don't know if I can let go... XENA
You're not forsaking your family. (beat) Lada to answer your question from before, the hardest battle I ever fought was... is with my past. Whatever happened in your past, you can't let it destroy your future, put it to rest and be happy. You have a family at the orphanage that loves you very much, don't blow it. (fans out her hand, a win). |
Hector returns dejected.
|
HECTOR
Well, I'd like to thank you for your help, but she will have no part of me. XENA
Are you sure? HECTOR
She's slapped me four times. (beat) Unless I'm just reading her wrong. And I really like her, she's beautiful and very wise... forget it. XENA
Get back there and just follow along. |
| 29 | INT. ORPHANAGE - MOMENTS LATER |
Gabrielle pulls Hanos aside as Evenor gathers the supplies for Anchos. She is obviously in an extremely weakened state from her battle.
|
GABRIELLE
Hanos, did Xena's horse return? HANOS
She's tied up in the back. GABRIELLE
Bring her around to the front but stay out of sight. The minute Anchos leaves I'll have to follow him. |
| 30 | INT. TAVERN - MOMENTS LATER |
Xena has sidled up to Hector at the bar, playing his girlfriend in an attempt to make Penelope jealous.
|
XENA
(extremely animated) There you are... I know I shouldn't follow you around but I miss you so much when you're away. HECTOR
(playing along) You must stop following me like this, I know you find me irresistible but my heart belongs to another. LADA
(jumping in) You heard the man sweetie, he's in love with me. HECTOR
Lada, I'm sorry, but my heart belongs to Penelope. LADA
Who is she, I'll kill her. XENA
You just get lost, I'll take care of this. |
Apochles enters with his gang and Janna.
|
XENA
Apochles. What brings you here? APOCHLES
Just doing some recruiting. |
He steps aside to reveal one of his gang holding Janna.
|
LADA
Janna? XENA
Apochles you don't need the girl, let her go. |
Apochles takes Janna and holds her with a knife to her throat.
|
APOCHLES
Don't I? XENA
Go ahead, if you want to enrage Hector (pushes Hector forward to fight). LADA
(to Xena) We know how this will turn out, I can't risk Janna's... XENA
We have to give him a chance. |
| 31 | INT. LAIR OF THE FATES - MOMENTS LATER |
The fates are on the edge of their seats, again watching the action on the screen.
|
ATROPO
(trying to sneak a peak at Clotho's tapestry) Are you sure everything's in place. CLOTHO
(pulls the tapestry away) The players are in the arena, now it's up to them. |
| 32 | INT. TAVERN - MOMENTS LATER |
|
PENELOPE
(to Hector) Help her. Do something. HECTOR (mustering up all his courage) Put her down or else! |
Gabrielle's staff sails into the back of Apochles's head, causing him to drop Janna. She has finally arrived at the tavern but is almost a goner. Xena realizes this. Xena grabs Hector's hand and sword and buries it in Apochles' chest. Apochles body vaporizes, returning back to the Lair. From Penelope's point of view it appears that Hector has killed Apochles.
Janna runs into Lada's arms for a huge embrace. Xena rushes over to Gabrielle.
|
XENA
Gabrielle, can you hear me? GABRIELLE
(barely conscious) Xena? |
Through the Fates' mirror we see the remainder of Apochles' gang gather around Hector asking him to be their new leader.
|
HECTOR (full of himself) No, I will be staying in Xanthi, if Penelope will have me. |
Penelope rushes over to him.
|
PENELOPE
That was so brave. |
Lada and Janna rush over to Gabrielle who is fading.
|
LADA
What's the matter? They're together. |
| 33 | INT. LAIR OF THE FATES - MOMENTS LATER |
Atropo and Lachius look at Clotho.
|
CLOTHO
They have to kiss. |
| 34 | INT. TAVERN - MOMENTS LATER |
|
XENA
They have to kiss. (stands up and shouts) Kiss her Hector! |
Befuddled the two kiss. As the intensity grows Gabrielle starts to come to.
| 35 | INT. LAIR OF THE FATES - MOMENTS LATER |
The Fates cheer and high five.
| 36 | INT. TAVERN - MOMENTS LATER |
|
GABRIELLE
(regaining consciousness) Xena... What happened? XENA
(looking toward Hector and Penelope - sarcastically) True love just happened. |
| 37 | EXT. ROAD - MOMENTS LATER |
Xena, Gabrielle, Lada are saying their good byes. Janna is holding the baby.
|
XENA
Thank you for all your help. LADA
Are you sure you don't want to stay awhile? (to Gabrielle) How are you feeling? GABRIELLE
I'm fine now. Hey, does the baby have a name? LADA
No, not yet. JANNA Look, she's got a mark on her back that looks just like a bear. |
Off Xena's look.
|
LADA
I didn't say anything. GABRIELLE
Don't look at me I know better. LADA
Great, now I have another Xena to contend with. XENA
Good. I'm sure she'll keep you in line. |
Xena and Lada's handshake breaks into a hug.
|
XENA
I owe you a huge debt. LADA
I owe you Xena, I owe you my life. XENA
Make it a happy one. |
Both groups start to go their separate ways.
|
LADA
Hey wait, you do owe me something. XENA
Name it. LADA
A visit, to return my rings. XENA
I look forward to it. |
Xena and Gabrielle continue down their path.
|
GABRIELLE
Xena, you have to tell me about everything. What was Achilles' lair like? What happened to Lada's necklace? XENA
(throws her arm around Gabrielle's shoulder) You don't know how much I have to tell you, but first get this, Thor decides to leave Mount Olympus to mingle with mortals. GABRIELLE
Oh no. XENA
So he goes into a tavern and meets this woman. |
Fade to black
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