(Author's Note - Apologies for the HTML formatting being somewhat off. I had to centre it to get it lookig a little better.)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

XENA

GABRIELLE

HADES

PERSEPHONE

RHEA (Hades' Mother)

MERLIN

PUCK

MORGANA

WISE OLD TREE

LADY OF THE LAKE

ELIS (Young Woman)

TOR (Warlord)

FAERIES

TOR'S ARMY

~~~~~~~~~~~

INTERIORS:

TEMPLE OF HADES

OCEAN BARGE

RHEA'S TEMPLE

EXTERIORS:

WOODS - CLEARING - DAY

WOODS - PATH

GRASSY FIELD - (SURROUNDED BY TREES)

FOOT OF LARGE MOUNTAIN - TEMPLE OF HADES

OCEAN - SHORE (AEGEAN SEA)

OCEAN - WATER (AEGEAN)

BARGE

NIGHT SKY

ISLE OF AVALON

SHORE

FOREST (PATH/CLEARING)

FAERIE GROVE

GRASSY CLIFF BY OCEAN - TREES

PLANET EARTH FROM SPACE

~~~~~~~~~~~~

FADE IN:

EXT. WOODS CLEARING - DAY

XENA sits with GABRIELLE. The two horses are standing nearby. The Warrior Princess is reading one of Gabrielle's scrolls. She smiles to herself and nods.

XENA

I remember that ...

Xena continues to read. Gabrielle peers over her shoulder and smiles.

XENA

I remember that too...

GABRIELLE

I hope I wrote it right. I wasn't

exactly there you know.

XENA

Could've fooled me. Gabrielle, these

are so good, I've seen scrolls in Temples

of the Gods that aren't nearly as good.

GABRIELLE

(smiles)

Really?

XENA

Really.

XENA

(looking at the scroll)

Hades was so grateful when I rescued

his sister, the time she was kidnapped

by King Sisyphus. (smiles)

He tried to hide it, you know.

GABRIELLE

Do you regret -

XENA

(soft, beat)

He didn't leave me any choice,

In silence, she rolls up the scrolls and places them back in Gabrielle's satchel, hands the bag to her, then stands and walks to her horse.

XENA

Come on, Girl.

Gabrielle gathers her satchel, stands and joins Xena, taking the reigns of her horse.

XENA

I haven't had a chance to thank you for

what you did for Eve. It's highly

irregular, for the Amazons to accept

an outsider, especially temporarily.

GABRIELLE

(smiles)

Being Queen, does have some advantages...

XENA

(smiles)

I hope she has fun.

GABRIELLE

(nods)

She will and she'll learn a lot from

them.

XENA

As you did.

Gabrielle smiles as they continue to walk along the wooded path. All of a sudden, the horses panic, neigh wildly.

XENA

Whoa, Girl, what is it?

Gabrielle struggles to calm her horse.

The ground begins to shake. Xena and Gabrielle steady themselves and the horses.

XENA

(worried)

That was no ordinary quake...

Xena and Gabrielle walk with the horses, to a nearby clearing, out of the woods.

CUT TO:

EXT. GRASSY FIELD - (SURROUNDED BY TREES)

There is a rocky formation to the left of Xena. Xena surveys the area. All is eerie quiet. The ground shakes again slightly. Xena visibly shudders.

GABRIELLE

(concerned)

What is it?

XENA

All Hades is about to break loose ...

In a bright flash, HADES APPEARS, sitting on the rocks, his chin resting on his hands.

HADES

This should be fun...

FADE OUT.

FADE IN:

EXT. GRASSY FIELD

Xena stares wide eyed, in an instant her sword is drawn. Hades stands, but does not draw any defence.

XENA

You're supposed to be dead.

Hades wipes his hand through the rock. It passes through.

HADES

I am, thanks to you.

XENA

You exactly didn't leave me -

HADES

Any choice?

GABRIELLE

If you're dead, then how can you -

HADES

It's a little different with Gods.

And when you killed me, Xena, I well ...

simply put, went home. Elysian Fields.

Nice place. The Dead go to the

Underworld y' know. So not much has

changed, really, except that I've no

powers. Can't even light a damned candle.

XENA

There's always a down side to murder.

Hades expression darkens.

HADES

(angry)

For Gaia's sake, Xena! Do you think it

would've filled me with glee to kill a

defenceless child?! Do you think I

wanted to kill Eve? I didn't have a

choice either!

XENA

Well excuuuse me if I don't cry.

HADES

Eve would have been well cared for,

in the Elysian Fields, with Solan.

XENA

That supposed to make me feel better?

HADES

(scowls)

I wish I'd never laid eyes on her.

XENA

You can't blame anyone else but yourself,

Hades.

HADES

(giving an angry,

though resigned look)

Well I haven't come here to make nice,

if that's what you mean, not that it'd

do much good. (beat).. I need your help.

XENA

(Stares at Hades, incredulous)

You want me to help you?

(dead pan, sarcasm)

... Of course, Lord Hades. Whatever

you want. I'm your ever faithful

servant.

HADES

(appears to take a breath)

I realise I'm hardly in your good

graces, Xena, but this isn't the

time for differences. You and I

both know the drastic ramifications

for this world if the Underworld's

boundaries are compromised - (frustrated)

And I can't do a bloody thing!

XENA

Why do you need me?

HADES

(after a pause)

Despite the unpleasantries, Xena, you

and Gabrielle are the only mortals

I trust.

XENA

Touched. So, Hades, what do you need?

HADES

(smiles)

I knew I could count on you.

Xena gives a humourless smile.

HADES

The only thing that can seal the

Underworld is the Orb of Serenity

from the fabled Isle of Avalon. No

God is permitted upon its shores.

GABRIELLE

I thought Avalon was a myth.

HADES

Most do, for its protection.

Very few mortals know its location...

And no God does. (beat)

I can't go with you, Xena, even in death

I'm forbidden.

XENA

By whom?

Hades humbly points upwards.

HADES

Archangel Michael. Though he allowed

me to appear to you.

XENA

It must really get your goat, Hades to

have to answer to a higher power.

HADES

If being dead has taught me one thing,

Xena, it's to appreciate life, and the

things one took for granted...

(beat)

Good journey, but be wary ...

There are those who will stop at

nothing to steal the secrets of Avalon

and ravage the land for its riches,

beauty and magic. (beat)

There is a barge waiting for you at the

edge of the Aegean.

XENA

How convenient.

GABRIELLE

How will we know the way?

(to both Xena

and Gabrielle)

The stars will guide you. Follow

the lowest point of Orion. It will

point the way.

GABRIELLE

I thought you said no God knew the

way to Avalon. How do you -

HADES

(softly)

I was born there ...

With that, he VANISHES.

GABRIELLE

(awe)

Hades was born in Avalon?

XENA

Learn something new every day.

Let's get moving ... We've got a

lot of ground ... and sea to cover...

Gabrielle doesn't look too thrilled about the 'sea' part as she and Xena mount their horses.

CUT TO:

EXT. FOOT OF LARGE MOUNTAIN - TEMPLE OF HADES

HADES TEMPLE is at the foot of the mountain. Xena and Gabrielle ride their horses past the open Temple. A young woman (ELIS) emerges from the Temple and approaches Xena.

ELIS

You be Xena?

Xena dismounts and approaches the woman.

XENA

I be Xena.

Without warning, Elis slaps Xena across the face.

ELIS

(clearly distressed)

How could you?

Tears begin to form in Elis' eyes. Xena looks genuinely confused.

ELIS

How could you kill the Gods? How could

you take away our hope?

XENA

(looks sympathetic)

You don't need the Gods. It's time for

us to stand in our own power.

ELIS

(shakes her head)

The Gods guide us ... Care for us

and reward us and now ... Everything's

so empty ... I feel so alone...

XENA

(gently)

You'll realise one day that you have

that power within you. Sure you won't

be able to shoot fireballs, but what

the Gods did teach us, is that we have

powers of our own.

ELIS

(teary eyed)

You don't understand, Xena. My little

sister passed two full moons ago.

And I don't know where she's gone.

She had always been ill, and we had

always known Hades would care for her in

the Elysian Fields when her time came ...

but now he's gone... and ...

Xena gently takes Elis' hand.

XENA

Your sister is at peace.

ELIS

But how? Without Hades... how can...

Elis shakes her head, in tears and runs back into Hades' Temple. Saddened, Xena watches her.

CUT TO:

INT. TEMPLE OF HADES

Marble walls, show statues and exquisite clay pots and decorations of all kinds. Show large stone Altar at the end of the Temple. Show an array of unlit candles on the altar.

Crying, Elis kneels by the altar and clasps her hands.

ELIS

(in tears)

Lord Hades, please ... Please show me

my baby sister is safe with you ...

Show Xena standing in the entrance of the Temple. When Elis puts her head down, Xena grabs her Chakram and tosses it. The Chakram whooshes through the Temple, over the candles, lighting them all as it returns to Xena's hand and she retreats.

Elis looks up, her face brightening, her tears now ones of joy.

ELIS

Ohh ... Thank you, Hades ... Thank you...

I knew you would never abandon us...

CUT TO:

EXT. TEMPLE OF HADES

Gabrielle and Xena walk away leading their horses.

GABRIELLE

Despite how uplifted she feels, Xena, you

gave her false hope.

XENA

I know ... But it's what she needed

for now ... and Hades isn't as dead

as she thinks ...

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. OCEAN SHORE (AEGEAN SEA) - TWILIGHT

Show a wooden barge by the shore. Xena and Gabrielle dismount. Xena surveys the area.

GABRIELLE

Well the barge is here like Hades said,

but do you get the feeling he hasn't told

us everything?

XENA

That God has always been something of a

mystery to me, although he's never

broken his word or a promise and despite

the Gods' aversion to Eve, he's one of

the few Olympian Gods who hardly ever

abuses his powers...

GABRIELLE

But Xena, things have changed. The last

times you and he met, it wasn't exactly

peaches and cream.

XENA

True, though something tells me he's not

lying.

Xena's horse sounds nervous. Xena strokes her head gently, calming the horse down, as she, Gabrielle and the horses head toward the barge.

In a shimmer of light, a ghostlike woman, (LADY OF THE LAKE) appears before them, with long white hair flowing behind her. She is clad in a white dress with pastel blue and green trimmings. Warily, Xena turns.

LADY

Stay true to yourself, Xena. Do not

let hatred and anger take your soul.

XENA

Who are you?

LADY

Who I am is unimportant. And I cannot

remain here. You must not allow

the Forces of Darkness to learn the

secrets of Avalon.

The Lady VANISHES.

XENA

This gets more and more interesting...

GABRIELLE

What did she mean by hatred taking your

soul? You're past that.

XENA (nods)

I've got a feeling we're going to find

out.

Xena and Gabrielle board the barge with their horses.

The second they are on, like magic, the barge sets sail.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. BARGE - DECK

Gabrielle holds onto the side.

GABRIELLE

I can do this ... I can do this ...

Think happy thoughts...

Xena smiles, then looks out to the wide open sea.

SHOW DARKENED SEA stretching on as far as the eye can see.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. OCEAN - MISTY

Xena and Gabrielle stand on the barge. All is eerie quiet, apart from sounds of the barge on the water.

GABRIELLE

(nervous)

I'm not sure I like this, Xena.

XENA

Legend has it, Avalon is shrouded in

mists to hide and protect her.

GABRIELLE

It's a beautiful legend, but reading

legend is a far cry from living it.

XENA

(smiles)

We're both living it.

The mists above part. Gabrielle looks into the night sky.

EXT. NIGHT SKY

Show ORION CLUSTER - FOCUS ON LOWER MOST STAR

GABRIELLE

That's the star!

XENA

Which one?

GABRIELLE

(points)

See those three stars in a row? One's

slightly offset?

XENA

Uh huh.

GABRIELLE

Look down, to a point. See that reddish

twinkly one? That's it.

XENA

Didn't know you knew anything about

Astronomy.

GABRIELLE

(smiles)

It's a hobby I had when I was little.

I used to dream of visiting the stars.

They look so peaceful, so serene. I

used to think they were little angels

and I always thought that nothing bad

could ever happen out there.

XENA

(smiles)

A nice dream.

GABRIELLE

An innocent one. Now that I think about

it, they probably have as many problems

out there as we do. Maybe there's a

child somewhere out there that thinks

this place is the most beautiful and

peaceful thing they've ever seen ...

XENA

The grass always seems greener on the

other side, but when you get there

the grass always looks greener on

the side you came from.

GABRIELLE

(smiles, looks into the sky)

Do you think humans will ever reach

the stars?

XENA

We still fight and kill each other over

land and racial differences.

GABRIELLE

(sighs sadly)

Peace will come, Xena. Maybe not in

our lifetimes and maybe then, we can

explore the stars as we do the oceans.

Xena smiles. Both women are distracted by a flash as PERSEPHONE APPEARS on the barge. Xena grabs her Chakram. Persephone holds up a hand.

PERSEPHONE

That's not necessary. (beat)

I came to warn you, Xena, Gabrielle.

Many dangers lie ahead. You must be wary.

XENA

I always am.

PERSEPHONE

The magic and powers of Avalon, you have

no idea.

XENA

Well then, we'll find out when we get

there, won't we?

PERSEPHONE

Hades is grateful for-

XENA

(snaps)

This isn't for Hades!

PERSEPHONE

(snaps back)

If you hadn't killed him, Xena, this

wouldn't have happened. (beat) ...

(Sad) ... You didn't have to kill him...

XENA

(glares at Persephone)

In case you forgot, he tried to kill-

PERSEPHONE

I know what my husband did, Xena, and

I don't condone his actions, but I respect

them nonetheless ... but there must've

been another way.

XENA

It wasn't like I had time to think.

And you can hardly tell me you miss him.

He said he went straight back to the

Underworld.

PERSEPHONE

(smiles warmly)

He begged the Archangels. Even in death

he couldn't bear be without myself and

Celesta and out of pity, Michael allowed

him to return ... (beat)

But have you any idea how grumpy a dead

God can be, Xena? No matter how many

times Celesta and I tell him we love him,

for who he is, he still feels incomplete.

XENA

He'll just have to get used to life

without fireballs. Now, Queen of the

Underworld, if you'd kindly let us on

our way. We have work to do.

PERSEPHONE

Celesta and I begged him not to fight you,

Xena, but he felt he had to. He told us

he didn't want to lose us... I don't

know if that means anything to you, but

despite what you might think, Xena, Hades

wasn't fighting for himself, or power or

the greater glory of the Gods. He fought

for his family as you did.

(beat)

(Soft) Safe journey.

With those words, the Queen of the Underworld VANISHES, leaving Xena with a mixed expression as the barge sails upon the ocean.

DISTANT SHOT:

In the dark mist, show a woman standing in a small wooden boat, dressed in a regal dark velvet gown, her dark auburn wavy hair draping over her shoulders, blowing in the subtle winds. Her face is hidden in the dark. (This is MORGANA). She looks ahead at Xena's barge. SHOW BARGE, barely visible in the distance as Morgana's boat sails in silence.

FADE OUT.

FADE IN:

EXT. OCEAN - NIGHT - MISTY

Show barge sailing upon the ocean. CLOSE IN on very thick, swirling, mists ahead.

GABRIELLE

(stares, disbelief)

The Mists of Avalon ...

Xena looks ahead as the barge is swallowed by the mists.

HOLD ON MISTS. Show Morgana's boat enter the mists.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. OCEAN (BARGE) - MISTY

Show nothing but thick mists ahead. All is quiet. Gabrielle and Xena stand on the barge.

Slowly, a large darkened island comes into view.

XENA

Avalon...

Both women look in awe.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. ISLE OF AVALON - SHORE

Xena and Gabrielle lead the horses off the barge.

Show Mists wafting through the trees, the Isle looking quite enchanting, although somewhat daunting.

XENA

Let's find Hades' Orb.

MERLIN (V.O)

Beware, Xena.

XENA

(turning)

Something tells me this journey isn't

going to run out of surprises...

An elderly Wizard APPEARS, long white hair and beard, wearing robes of purple and indigo, holding a short wand of the same colors, moons and stars depicted along the staff. A clear round crystal at one end, clear crystal shard at the other, Gabrielle looks at the old Wizard in awe.

MERLIN

I am Merlin.

XENA

Never heard of you.

MERLIN

(smiles)

I will not exist for another six hundred

of your years.

GABRIELLE

Then how can you be-

MERLIN

(smiles)

True Magic overcomes the greatest of

obstacles and the impossible. Time is

merely an ocean upon which we travel.

Gabrielle looks touched.

MERLIN

I bring warning, Xena. Morgana will

stop at nothing to secure the Orb of

Serenity.

XENA

Can you tell me more about the Orb?

MERLIN

The Orb is many things. Sacred, Magical,

Enchanted. Within lie the secrets of

time and death. It is the perfect

Synergy. Though if Morgana obtains it...

XENA

I take it that's a bad thing.

MERLIN

The end of the Future, the Present and

the Past as it is known. I can only guide

and protect you, Xena. I am cannot fight

for you. Seek the Temple in the Heart of

Avalon. There you will find the Orb of

Serenity, but I caution you, your journey

will be a dangerous one. You need only

follow your heart.

With that, the old wizard VANISHES.

GABRIELLE

Can this get any more amazing?...

XENA

Count on it.

Both women mount their horses. Gabrielle follows Xena into the misty trees. When through, the mists seem to dissipate somewhat. The leaves on the trees sparkle subtly as Xena and Gabrielle walk by.

GABRIELLE

This place is beautiful... No wonder

it's kept so secret.

A small pointy eared, (not bearded) long white haired, though young looking ELF (PUCK) APPEARS in mid air flying alongside Xena and Gabrielle. The Bard starts a little, Xena hardly bats an eyelid. PUCK moves through the air as he speaks. All Puck's speech is rapid, though understandable.

PUCK

I am Puck, that merry wanderer of the

night, sent to assist you on your epic

plight. Over hill, over dale, through

flood, through fire.

XENA

Swell. So can you tell us about Morgana?

PUCK

The witch is one with the night.

Insidious within the shadows she follows.

Take heed, Princess Warrior, Gentle

Bard for Morgana's dark soul will destroy

your light.

XENA

In other words, she's bad news.

PUCK

Said that, did I not?

XENA

(giving Puck a look)

So how can we defeat her?

PUCK

Inside the answers you will find.

To defeat Morgana you wish? Not with a

weapon forged by the hand. Brute

strength will avail you not.

GABRIELLE

Find the answers, inside where? The

Temple at the Heart of Avalon ... The

Orb of Serenity?

PUCK

Mystical the Orb be. Within lie the

Spirit and Dreams of the Universe.

Though haste you must make this night,

for all will be lost by dawn's fair

light.

XENA

You didn't answer the question.

PUCK

Need Puck answer what is already known?

GABRIELLE

(slightly annoyed)

How can we know if you haven't told us

anything?

PUCK

(laughs sweetly)

Lord, what fools, these mortals be!

With that, he VANISHES.

XENA

That was a lot of help.

GABRIELLE

What do you suppose he meant?

XENA

I'm not sure, but I've a feeling we'll

soon find out.

Xena and Gabrielle ride on.

CUT TO:

EXT. FOREST - SHOW ANGLE BEHIND XENA AND GABRIELLE

The trees rustle slightly. Show MORGANA, a silhouette in the shadows.

CUT TO:

EXT. AVALON - FOREST PATH

Xena and Gabrielle ride cautiously.

GABRIELLE

(soft)

It's so peaceful here, so quiet.

XENA

Too quiet.

A slight RUSTLE is heard from the trees, in a flash, Xena

instantly draws her sword. A tiny glowing green FAERIE with long purple hair slowly flutters out of the leaves. She flies around Xena, curious. Xena sheaths her sword. The Faerie flies up to Gabrielle, the Bard looking in wonder as the tiny creature flies around her. Very slowly, Gabrielle puts her hand out. The Faerie is a little nervous at first, but decides to trust Gabrielle and sits on her index finger. The Bard smiles warmly.

Five other glowing Faeries flutter from the trees. Two of them begin to braid Xena's fringe. She is uncomfortable at first, but then relaxes and smiles.

GABRIELLE

(soft, awe)

This is the most beautiful place

in the Universe ...

Xena smiles. The Faeries finish braiding her hair. One of them touches her finger.

XENA

(surprised)

I can understand them... (beat)

They say I must secure the Orb of

Serenity, or Avalon and all its

creatures will dissolve into the

mists... and Darkness will envelop

the Earth ... for all eternity...

GABRIELLE

You can understand them? How?

XENA

I don't know...

The Faeries flutter back into the trees. Xena dismounts, walks to the trees, parts the branches, and stares on awe.

CUT TO:

EXT. FAERIE GROVE

In a clearing in the trees, show a gathering of many Fairies, fluttering about. Show toadstools, flowers, a peaceful scene.

Gabrielle dismounts and joins Xena and is equally awe struck and smiles warmly at the beauty.

XENA

Glacia was right...

(upon Gabrielle's confused look

Xena gives a guilty smile)

A girl I used to tease when I was

little because she believed in Faeries...

GABRIELLE

And now you do too. Stranger things

have happened.

Xena smiles as they mount their horses and ride on.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. AVALON - LARGE LAKE

Xena stops, sensing something.

GABRIELLE

What is it?

XENA

I'm not sure ... There's something

here ... I ...

The lake shimmers. THE LADY OF THE LAKE rises.

LADY

Xena.

XENA

(Understands)

Lady.

LADY

(speaks gently)

Be wary, Warrior Princess. Morgana

will not be easy to defeat. Nor will

she make her presence obviously known.

The future of Avalon and this world

rests upon your shoulders, Xena.

It is not an easy burden to bear.

XENA

Now I can emphasize with Atlas...

(beat)... Lady, tell me how can I-

LADY

(smiles gently)

You will know, Xena, when it is time.

XENA

But how will I-

LADY

(disappearing into

the lake)

You will know ... All will be

revealed in time.

The lake waters shimmers as the Lady disappeared within. Xena appears troubled.

GABRIELLE

She said you would in time...

Xena and Gabrielle turn their horses and ride deeper into the forest.

XENA

(nods)

I hate being kept in the dark ... But

the sooner we find this Orb, the

sooner we'll find out.

Puck, show yourself!

A nearby shrub TRANSFORMS into Puck.

PUCK

You called, Princess Warrior?

XENA

(mild look of surprise)

How much further to the Temple?

PUCK

On the right track you be.

XENA

At least that's something.

PUCK

(smiles)

My Princess Warrior, this must be done

cut the clouds full fast.

And yonder shines Aurora's harbinger.

But be wary the dangers that lie ahead.

XENA

So I've been told.

(beat)

Make yourself useful, Puck, and scout

ahead. There may be something we can.

use against Morgana.

PUCK

than the arrow from Artemis' bow.

Gabrielle smiles, Xena has a resigned look. In a whoosh, Puck flies into the trees and is gone.

PUCK (V.O)

Be wary the dangers that lurk behind.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. AVALON FOREST PATH

Xena and Gabrielle come to a junction with four crossroads. All is silent.

XENA

It's gotten even quieter...

GABRIELLE

(nods)

We must be getting close.

Show the surrounding trees looking lifelike. Show one looking like a wise old man. He opens his gentle eyes.

WISE OLD TREE

All is not what it seems...

Xena seems moderately surprised as she turns to Gabrielle.

XENA

A little like Illusia isn't it?

GABRIELLE

Except this is real.

Xena dismounts and approaches the Wise Old Tree.

WISE OLD TREE

Mind what you have learned.

XENA

And what have I learned?

WISE OLD TREE

(smiles warmly)

That you already know, Xena. For the

truth, you must search within. And

you must stay true to your inner most

self.

XENA

(beginning to understand)

Thank you.

WISE OLD TREE

Good Journey.

XENA

(mounts her horse)

This way.

GABRIELLE

You're sure about this?

XENA

(nods)

I can sense it.

GABRIELLE

What if Morgana's trying to trick us?

XENA

My guess is she wants us to get the

Orb first.

Gabrielle nods and follows.

Show glowing yellow eyes in the trees, their branches rustling in the Avalonian winds.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. AVALON - FOREST PATH

Show Rhea's Temple in the distance, shrouded in mists. Xena indicates.

XENA

(soft)

There it is... The Temple at the Heart

of Avalon...

Gabrielle looks intrigued as the two women ride toward it.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. AVALON - RHEA'S TEMPLE

Xena and Gabrielle dismount their horses. Xena slowly takes in the Temple. Gabrielle looks concerned.

GABRIELLE

What is it?

XENA

I'm not sure ... There's something

about this Temple ... As though it's

alive ...

Cautious, Xena prepares to enter. The door opens for her. Xena hesitates. Inside is dark. Slowly, Xena enters. The second she is inside, the door slams shut, shutting Gabrielle outside. The Bard jerks and looks around, though there is nothing here. Gabrielle pounds the door.

GABRIELLE

Xena! ... (beat) ... Xena!

CUT TO:

INT. RHEA'S TEMPLE

Torches of fire ignite one at a time, around the Temple. Xena has her sword drawn, ready. She cannot hear Gabrielle.

Show a waist high pillar at the back of the Temple. Show the ORB OF SERENITY glowing white blue, resting in a hollow on this pillar. Xena hesitates before approaching the Orb. Cautiously, she reaches out, her hand over it.

A slight wind blows through the Temple, rustling leaves on the floor. The leaves blow in a circle in the centre of the room, upwards, faster and faster, and they begin to take form. A bright glow before a tall, slender woman APPEARS, clad in a red and white velvet gown, long wavy dark brown hair beyond her shoulders.

XENA

Something tells me you're not Morgana.

RHEA

Your insight serves you well. I am

Rhea. Queen of the Titans.

You defile my Temple, with your

presence, Xena. And you will pay for

murdering my Children.

Close on Xena's shocked expression as we:

FADE OUT.

FADE IN:

INT. RHEA'S TEMPLE

Xena darts away as Rhea screams and hurls a violet fireball at her. Rhea fires again, Xena swerves and grabs her Chakram, deflecting the next fireball. Rhea swerves, the fireball hitting the wall.

RHEA

(screams)

You will suffer!

XENA

I had no choice!

Rhea screams again as she releases another fireball.

RHEA

(furious)

You lie! Presumptuous mortal! Do

you take me for a fool!?

XENA

Your children tried to-

RHEA

(conviction)

You murdered them for their powers!

(beat)

My unyielding Zeus ... Tempestuous

Poseidon and Hades ... (beat)

Ohh, my gentle Hades...

Rhea looks up, tears in her eyes. Xena looks on her with pity, though is ready to defend herself. Xena tries to speak, though Rhea hurls another fireball. Xena deflects it again. Rhea raises her arms, creating a whirlwind, which she slams into the Warrior Princess, sending her flying backwards, crashing into the wall. Rhea hurls a fireball at one of the rafters, causing it to crash down onto Xena.

RHEA

You shall suffer mortal, for all

eternity. Your pain shall be eternal,

Xena, as mine is, as is my Childrens'...

XENA

(weak)

I didn't murder your children, Rhea.

They tried to kill my child. (beat)

I'm sorry for your loss, though I

couldn't let them kill Eve...

RHEA

Your lies will earn you more suffering.

You use your child to save your hide.

With all your strength and guile, Xena

you are pathetic.

XENA

I speak the truth.

RHEA

(glares at Xena)

How dare you mock me in my own Temple

and speak ill of my beloved departed

children whom you murdered?!

The Queen of the Titans approaches Xena.

RHEA

I felt my Children die, Hades most of

all. (beat - Sad)

Terrible pain .. fear ... But none of

their deaths will go unavenged. The

High Priestess of this Land informed me

of your actions and your plot to acquire

the Orb of Serenity for your own sordid

gains. Your journey ends here, Xena,

Warrior Princess and your soul will

forever burn in Tartarus.

(Rhea creates a fireball)

XENA

(calm)

Queen of Titans, I did kill your

children, though not in cold blood.

The Fates predicted my child, Eve

would set the Twilight in motion.

The Gods stopped at nothing to see

her destroyed. And I stopped at

nothing to save her. Your love for

your children is as strong as mine

for my daughter. But through your

pain, you must see the Truth.

Rhea's expression changes back to sadness as she looks into Xena's eyes. A tear rolls down Rhea's cheek. Slowly she puts down her arm, her fireball disappearing within.

RHEA

You speak truest truth.

She raises her arms, releasing Xena, healing her torn skin.

Xena stands.

XENA

I am sorry for your loss, though I am

not sorry for protecting my child.

RHEA

And I cannot blame you for that. As

much as my loss pains me, Xena, I

would have done the same for my babies.

XENA

(smiles)

It's hard imagining them as babies.

RHEA

(smiles warmly)

Hades was so adorable. Hot-headed at

times, but a beautiful child.

XENA

(chuckles)

He's the one who sent me here. He may

be dead, but he's not gone.

RHEA

Part of me sensed him, though I was

too caught up in my own grief and

rage. The High Priestess was so

vivid ... She-

XENA

This High Priestess must be Morgana.

RHEA

(angry)

She played me for a fool!

XENA

She used your grief for her own gains.

RHEA

(angry)

And the witch will pay. She told me

she needed the Orb of Serenity to

restore the balance ...

XENA

The Orb will restore balance to this

world, though somehow I doubt that's

what Morgana has in mind.

Rhea walks to the glowing Orb, gently picks it up and hands it to Xena.

RHEA

To you I entrust the Orb of Serenity

Xena, Warrior Princess, for you are

indeed worthy. I still grieve for the

loss of my Children, but I see your pain

as well. They left you no choice and

as you said, their Spirits are eternal.

Xena takes the Orb. It glows brightly in her hand. Xena looks at it in awe, sensing its Wisdom and Love.

Rhea runs her hands over it, encasing it in a protective round bronze looking casing, engraved with ancient scribe.

XENA

Thank you, Rhea, Queen of Titans.

RHEA

(smiles)

I sense your thoughts, Xena. It is

commonly assumed that I am either dead

or in Tartarus with my husband Cronus.

I reside here, protecting this Land,

though I have no physical power

outside the walls of this Temple.

Morgana must be punished for her

deception and her treachery ceased.

Go now, Xena, you haven't much time.

The door to the Temple opens, and Xena exits. As soon as she has left, the door closes.

CUT TO:

EXT. AVALON - RHEA'S TEMPLE

Xena's eyes widen. Gabrielle has been turned into a tree and tries to struggle. Change angle to show MORGANA. She appears to be young, in her late twenties/early thirties.

MORGANA

Give me the Orb and your friend will

be set free.

Puck APPEARS. Morgana hisses.

MORGANA

Be gone, Robin Goodfellow, meddlesome

sprite!

PUCK

(holds his hands

out to Xena)

Do not what she asks, Princess Warrior

for it is a ruse.

Morgana thrusts out her hand in Puck's direction, slamming the small elf into a tree. Xena looks concerned as Puck hits the ground, though he flies up and dusts himself off.

MORGANA

Stay well away, Puck, I warn you, or

I will feast upon your tender innards!

PUCK

A charmer, is she not?

Morgana glowers, Puck backs off. The witch turns back to Xena.

MORGANA

The Orb, Xena. It isn't too late

to save your friend.

Xena glares at Morgana.

XENA

You don't intend to free Gabrielle.

Leave this place, Morgana, witch of

the night.

MORGANA

(placing her hands on

her hips)

I haven't come all this way to turn

back, Xena. I shall obtain what I

came for. I shall spare you and

the Bard should you entrust the Orb

to me.

XENA

I asked you to leave. Nicely.

MORGANA

(glowering)

Foolish mortal, you know not to

whom you speak.

PUCK

(raising his arms)

Heinous creature, Xena finds your

presence vile.

Do you now as I command,

And never again return to this land.

Morgana screams, thrusting an fireball at Puck. The sprite swerves. Morgana fires again. Puck swirls.

PUCK

Oo! You almost hurt me with that one!

Morgana seethes. Xena holds a hand to Puck, fearing for his safety. Morgana fires at Xena. The Warrior Princess splits the Orb's casing, and holds it out, which absorbs the blast harmlessly. Morgana screams in frustration.

MORGANA

I was prepared to be merciful, Warrior

Princess, but my mood has become ill

indeed.

PUCK

Since when is it otherwise?

Morgana growls menacingly, throws up her arms in a melodramatic fashion as she VANISHES.

MORGANA (V.O)

Bide your time, Warrior Princess.

as I do mine.

PUCK

She will return. Of that have no

doubt.

XENA

You really shouldn't provoke her.

Puck smiles as he flies to Gabrielle and flicks his fingers.

A flash and Gabrielle is back to normal. She shakes her head.

PUCK

Fresh as the morning dew.

GABRIELLE

(to Puck)

Thanks ... Though fresh isn't quite

the word I'd choose.

(rubbing her arms)

I have a new found respect for trees.

(beat)

Where's Morgana now?

XENA

(closing the Orb)

Gone to cool off, I suspect.

Xena places the Orb in a satchel on her horse.

GABRIELLE

(nods)

It was interesting being a tree ...

though I wouldn't want to stay one

forever ...

XENA

She wouldn't've freed you, Gabrielle.

GABRIELLE

(smiles)

I know. You called her bluff.

Puck coughs.

XENA

With Puck's help.

(beat)

Tell me, Puck, why did Morgana call you

Robin Goodfellow?

PUCK

(smiles)

The Puck has many names. And the sprite

has many forms. He is what you believe of

him. He has no expectations, and no

judgements. Be you on your way now,

for you've no time to lose.

Xena and Gabrielle smile as Puck VANISHES. They mount their horses and start back from whence they came.

GABRIELLE

Something tells me the way back

won't be as easy.

XENA

(nods)

Morgana wanted us to secure the Orb.

She knew if she touched it within

the Temple, Rhea would have sensed her

deception and killed her.

Gabrielle's horse suddenly neighs wildly. Gabrielle tied to control the horse, but can't and is thrown off. Xena's head snaps around.

Gabrielle starts to get up, but is grabbed by a tree and held fast. Xena leaps off her horse, instantly drawing her sword.

The branches tighten around Gabrielle. The Bard desperately tries to keep them from strangling her. Xena hacks away at the branches with her sword, though more take their place. Vines emerge from the ground, and entwine around Xena's legs. The Warrior Princess slices them and leaps out of their way as they grow again. She forcefully pulls Gabrielle free and they dart away from the grabbing branches and vines.

MORGANA'S LAUGHTER surrounds them.

MORGANA (V.O)

Won't you come and play with me...

XENA

(deadpan)

Peekaboo.

Xena helps Gabrielle back onto her horse and mounts her own and they ride on.

GABRIELLE

If this is how she plays... I'd hate

to see how she fights...

Xena looks troubled.

GABRIELLE

What is it?

XENA

Gabrielle, I ...

MERLIN (V.O)

The Secrets of the Universe Reveal

themselves to those who Listen.

XENA

Merlin ... I've no command of Magic...

PUCK (V.O)

Oh ye of little faith...

MERLIN (V.O)

The Wisdom of the Ages lies within

you, Xena, Warrior Princess. You

must but find it.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. AVALON - FOREST PATH

Xena and Gabrielle ride on and are nearing the shore. Xena looks into the sky.

XENA

Dawn'll be breaking soon. We're

almost at the shore.

GABRIELLE

And Morgana'll no doubt come to see

us off.

XENA

And I doubt it'd be to wave.

GABRIELLE

So what do you think she has planned

for her grand finale?

XENA

Nothing gentle I would say.

GABRIELLE

That's reassuring.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. AVALON - FOREST CLEARING

Xena and Gabrielle come upon a clearing. Xena stops, sensing something and motions Gabrielle to stop.

The clearing erupts in a violent explosion of flame and Morgana APPEARS, fireball in hand.

Xena sounds her BATTLE CRY as she leaps from her horse. Gabrielle dismounts, and draws her defences, though Xena motions her back. Xena leaps as Morgana fires. She grabs her Chakram, deflecting Morgana's next blast. The witch swerves, the fireball decimating a nearby tree. Morgana draws her arm back, creating another fireball. She does the same with her other hand, then raises her hands above her head, combining the two into an enormous ball of energy. Xena's eyes widen a tad as Morgana releases it. Xena leaps backward, the blast impacts hard on the ground, the force throwing Xena back. Xena stands and draws her sword. Morgana smiles.

MORGANA

A true and majestic sword, Warrior

Princess, but it will avail you not.

Morgana thrusts her hand out. Xena's sword is torn from her grasp and flies to Morgana's hand.

Puck APPEARS, in mid air, looking concerned.

MORGANA

You have had my final warning, bothersome

Elf!

PUCK

Be gone from here, wretched, pernicious

beast! Return to the maleficent realm

from whence you came!

Puck thrusts out his arms, releasing energy chains, binding Morgana's arms tightly to her sides. She screams in rage.

MORGANA

(enraged)

Prepared was I to grant you mercy,

Puck, but no longer!

With an effort, Morgana breaks free of Puck's chains and glares menacingly at him. Morgana charges Xena's sword with her powers, causing it to glow. She hurls the sword at Puck at lightning speed. The Sprite does not have time to manoeuvre out of the way as it impales him. Puck screams in pain as he is sent flying backward. Xena and Gabrielle spin around to see him fall to the ground. Xena rushes to him.

XENA

Puck!

Xena takes her sword from his body, stained with Puck's blood. She kneels down to the small Sprite, upset. Puck winces, looks at her weakly and smiles. Morgana looks at them with contempt. She seems overconfident and content to let them attend to Puck.

PUCK

(weakly, to Xena)

Do not give in to your hate...

Or you will become as evil as she.

XENA

(dawning)

Wisdom of the Ages ... (slow)

I understand, now Puck.

PUCK

Finally.

Xena gives him a semi-amused look.

XENA

Gabrielle, look after him.

GABRIELLE (nods)

Of course. (beat) ... Xena ...

XENA

Merlin wasn't just talking about

what I learned here, but all I have

ever learned ... From you, Lao Ma ...

Eli ... from him, Puck, the creatures

of this land...

Gabrielle smiles understandingly as she kneels down next to Puck.

GABRIELLE

You knew all along, didn't you? And

you were right. We knew the answer.

PUCK

(smiles weakly)

The wind answers all. We must but

just feel it.

GABRIELLE

(gently takes Puck's hand)

Don't speak. Save your energy.

Xena stands and approaches Morgana.

MORGANA

Have you come to a decision?

XENA

What's there to decide?

MORGANA

(glowers)

The Orb. This one final chance I give

you to relinquish it to me.

XENA

Go to Hades.

MORGANA

So be it. You have sealed your fate.

And it shall not be a pleasant one.

Morgana creates a fireball.

XENA

No offence, but I've heard that before

and what is it with Gods, Witches

and fireballs?

MORGANA

(laughs)

Naive mortal, you have but seen a

fraction of my powers.

Xena doesn't look impressed. Morgana releases the fireball into the sky. She then raises her arms. The winds pick up.

MORGANA

~ Legere Tenebrae

Venire Aeternus Nocturnus

Dominari Exitium

Intendere Obitus

Dolere

Et Aeternus Cadem Accipere

Ad Animatio apud ille Lumen ~

The winds become more violent and begin to howl. Leaves and earth swirl. Xena struggles against them. Before long, trees begin to uproot. Gabrielle stays with Puck, shielding him from the Storm of Darkness.

MORGANA

(over the wind)

The Storm of Darkness, Xena...

Armageddon is nigh.

XENA

(struggling to stay

on her feet)

Not if I can help it...

MORGANA

(laughs)

Your skills and weapons are useless

against the Forces of Darkness. You

shall perish and it is you who shall

go to Hades.

Morgana thrusts up her arms. A loud EXPLOSION is heard, and seen above the trees. Xena spins to the sound.

MORGANA

Your means of escape has been destroyed,

Xena. You are now citizens of Avalon.

Unless you and Gabrielle plan to swim

back to Greece...

Xena struggles against the storm. She refuses to let Morgana think she's won. Xena steadies herself and breathes in and closes her eyes, shutting out all around her.

XENA (V.O)

(thinks)

I call upon the Wisdom of the Ages...

All that I have learned, experienced

and known ...

Xena turns to Morgana.

XENA

To conquer others is to have power.

To conquer yourself is to know the way.

Morgana is confused, though she shows no signs of backing down.

MORGANA

The Orb, Xena.

Xena reaches out to the satchel on her horse. The Orb comes to her hand. Xena looks directly into Morgana's eyes.

XENA

~ Impius Unus ex Tenebrae

Ita Lividus Tuus Animus

Ego Iubere Tu

Apertus Tuus Cor ex Lapis Et Glacies

Ad ille Vivus Festinare

Ad Amor

Ad Laetitia

Ad ille Lumen ~

MORGANA

(worried)

What are you doing...?

The Orb of Serenity glows brightly. Morgana tries to shield her face, though she cannot hide.

MORGANA

NO!!

Morgana tries to struggle, to turn away, but she can't as she stares into the Orb, as if in a trance. The witch falls to her knees.

MORGANA

(wails)

No ... no ... no ...

Tears roll down her cheeks. The winds stop howling and dies down to a subtle breeze.

Merlin APPEARS and regards Morgana. Morgana looks up at him, desperately. Merlin looks understanding.

MERLIN

The Orb is the purest form of Love,

Lady Morgana. True Compassion.

Universal Serenity. (beat)

Only now do you understand its power.

MORGANA

But I also saw blackness, a putrid

swamp... And a gnarled old hag...

MERLIN

The Orb showed a mirror to your Soul.

MERLIN

(to Morgana's horrified look)

You see now how your hatred and lust

for power destroyed your once innocent

soul.

Morgana looks lost. Merlin smiles understandingly.

MERLIN

In time, the Universe will return your

evil deeds to you, though not in any

manner you will expect.

Only by the Soul of Excalibur will you

redeem your lost innocence.

Return you must now to your time, Lady

Morgan le Fay.

Morgana's tears splash onto the soil of Avalon and vanish into the soil. She looks up at Merlin and nods.

MORGANA

I shall accept my fate as it is foretold

by the Goddess of Avalon.

Merlin twirls his wand, the rod glows, blue energy swirls around Morgana as she VANISHES. Merlin turns to Xena.

MERLIN

(smiles warmly)

You would not have won had you not

looked inside your Soul.

XENA

What you, The Lady of the Lake and

Puck told me all along. I already

knew the answer.

MERLIN

And you had the courage to find it.

Hate cannot be fought with hate.

XENA

As it begets more hate.

MERLIN

And more destruction.

XENA

Thank you, Merlin.

MERLIN

(smiles)

It is I who should give thanks. You

must now return with the Orb to Hades.

I thank and fare thee well, Xena,

Gabrielle, for I must now return to my

own time and prepare for the Arthurian Age.

With those words, Merlin VANISHES in a subtle white light.

Xena turns and approached Gabrielle, still by Puck's side.

GABRIELLE

(smiles)

We're both a little wiser now.

XENA

Indeed.

XENA

(kneels by Puck)

I'm sorry ... Puck why did you...

PUCK

(smiles weakly)

True my magic is not as strong as Morgana's

or Merlin's as yet. I am but a babe in tender

care of the Mother Universe ... You did hold

all the answers, though I gave you the one

thing you needed. (beat) ... Time.

XENA

(sincere)

Thank you.

PUCK

(weakly)

Grieve not Princess Warrior, Gentle

Bard, for I must now to Oberon. I

die here and now, but reborn again I

will be. In Death there be life.

(beat)

Give me your hands if we be friends ...

(He takes both Xena and

Gabrielle's hands)

And Robin shall restore amends...

A bright flash follows as we:

FADE IN:

EXT. GREECE - GRASSY CLIFF BY OCEAN - DAY

Although it is day, the sky looks unnaturally dark.

Xena and Gabrielle APPEAR in a flash of light on their horses. The ground shakes violently. The surrounding trees sway violently. Show the Ocean rampant, swirling, and being sucked into the Underworld. Show parts of the cliff crumbling, also falling into the Underworld.

Xena stares ahead.

CHANGE ANGLE TO SHOW TOR AND HIS ARMY. Tor sits atop his horse, grinning with gnarled, blackened teeth.

XENA

Tor...

Xena and Gabrielle dismount, ready for action.

TOR

I'd say it's a pleasure to see you again,

Xena, but...

XENA

You'd be lying through your revolting

teeth.

TOR

(smiles)

Exactly. Although I have to thank

you, Xena.

XENA

(deadpan)

Whatever for?

TOR

Ever since you decimated my entire army

with that avalanche in the Norse Lands...

well, it's no surprise we all went to

Tartarus ...

XENA

That happens to evil bastards, yes.

TOR

(grunts)

Well, Xena, Warrior Princess, ever since

then ... I've plotted my revenge.

XENA

Ambiguous, Tor. Not many escape from

the depths of Tartarus.

TOR

I count myself as one of the lucky ones.

GABRIELLE

Lucky for who?

TOR

(smiles)

And Xena, also I want that Orb thingy...

To stay out of Tartarus...

XENA

You and everybody else. You're going

back to Tartarus where you belong.

TOR

You know you were more fun when you

were an evil bitch.

Xena draws her sword. Tor leaps from his horse, drawing his sword. Tor rushes Xena. Xena sounds her BATTLE CRY. Gabrielle draws her daggers. Tor and Xena's swords clash. Tor's army waits.

Tor bellows as he thrusts his sword against Xena's.

Xena blocks his attach and thrusts. Tor swerves, though Xena's next blow runs him through. Tor falls though his wound heals instantly and he's back up again. Xena looks startled.

TOR

(grins)

You can't kill me, Xena. I'm already

dead.

Xena blocks Tor's next blow. Tor looks overconfident.

TOR

I can fight forever, Xena. My guess

is that you'll be pooped after a few

hours or so ... And I don't like your

chances of fighting an entire

immortal army... And your friend...

We'll take good care of her...

XENA

(growls)

You leave Gabrielle outta this! This

is between you and me, bastard!

Tor grins as he slams his sword into Xena's. Xena blocks his blow and backs off a little as he almost runs her through.

Tor swipes again, almost decapitating Xena, though she ducks in the nick of time, her sword slicing Tor's shoulder. Tor winces, although the wound heals instantly.

Gabrielle stands ready, though doesn't notice one of TOR's SOLDIERS creep around behind her. Xena is too caught up in battling Tor to notice either.

Gabrielle senses something amiss. She spins as the warrior is almost on top of her, kicks out, the warrior lands flat on his back, though leaps up in an instant, grinning. Gabrielle backs off a little, her daggers ready as the warrior flanks her. He attacks, Gabrielle defends herself, though he bashes the daggers out of her hands with his sword. Gabrielle swerves and kicks out, the warrior moves back, then lunges forward and kicks Gabrielle to the ground, holding the sword at her throat.

Xena glances at Gabrielle and looks worried.

TOR

(grins)

I'll let her live if you give me the Orb.

XENA

Why do I have trouble believing that?

TOR

Well I've always had a problem with

keeping my word ... But this time I'll

make the effort. The Orb, Xena or

I'll send the bitch to Hades.

GABRIELLE

Don't do it, Xena...

The Warrior growls poking the sword into her throat. Gabrielle winces.

TOR

Your choice, Warrior Princess.

XENA

(looks down ... slow)

All right ... Tor ... I'll give you

the Orb.

GABRIELLE

No, Xena!

XENA

Gabrielle, it's the only way ...

(To Tor) It's in the satchel on

Gabrielle's horse...

Gabrielle realises Xena's bluff and plays along.

GABRIELLE

Xena ... We need the Orb ... He's not

going to keep his word...

TOR

Your friend's smarter than I gave her

credit for.

Tor motions the warrior by Gabrielle to go to her horse. He throws Gabrielle down and approaches the horse. Tor grins. Xena knees him hard in the groin.

XENA

I may not be able to kill you, Tor,

but this sure as Hades hurts.

Tor groans, on his knees on the ground.

The warrior searches Gabrielle's horse and shakes his head. Tor stands, his expression menacing enough to scare Phobos, God of Fear. Tor swirls his sword. The other warrior madly rushes Gabrielle.

TOR

See you in Hades, Xena, oh wait,

No I won't ...

Instead of rushing Tor, Xena rushes to her horse, and grabs the satchel, rips it open and takes out the Orb, opening the casing. Tor rushes her. Xena holds the Orb. Tor looks nervous, though tries to hide it. He motions his army back.

XENA

~ Aversus ad ille de Infernus

Ego Iubere Tu Reditus

Ad Accipere dat Malus ~

Nothing happens at first. Xena looks confused.

XENA

(whispers)

I thought I got it right ...

TOR

A nice little toy. Make for a

pretty Solstice ornament.

Xena looks worried. She sees Gabrielle thrown to the ground by the warrior.

TOR

Kill them!

Tor's army rushes forward brandishing swords, yelling.

HADES APPEARS in a flash of light, looking very imposing. He glares directly at Tor.

HADES

I've been looking for you. You

know it's not polite to leave

without saying goodbye.

TOR

(sneers)

I heard you were powerless, God

of the Dead.

HADES

Don't believe everything you hear.

(To Xena)

You forgot the last line of the spell.

(completing the spell)

~ Usque Inferi Glaciare Supra ~

The Orb glows brighter, and rises and gives a blinding flash of light. Tor and his army look terrified and freeze as the light engulfs them.

TOR

NOOOOOOH!!!! NOOOOOOH!!!!

I WON'T GO BACK!!!!

HADES

Feel free to stay a while and don't

forget to check out the fire pits.

Chisel lots of pictures...

Tor and his army vanish. The Orb returns to Xena's hand.

When all is calm once more, Hades helps Gabrielle up and turns to Xena.

HADES

That's another one I owe you, not that

I can ever repay you, Xena.

XENA

(smiles)

I may still come to collect you know.

She hands him the Orb. Hades takes it. The Orb glows bright in his hands as he hold it gently. (He is able to hold the Orb.)

HADES

It is beautiful, isn't it?

Xena smiles and nods. Hades closes his eyes for a few moments. All is silent as he tunes into the Orb of Serenity. It glows brighter. Blues, greens and violets swirl within.

Show the sky returning to normal, a rainbow streaks across the fluffy white clouds. Xena smiles.

Show the Ocean calming and the cliff becomes sturdy. The Earth stops shaking. The Orb elevates and VANISHES into the Earth. After a moment, Hades opens his eyes.

HADES

Thank you, Xena. I realise you didn't

do this for me, but nevertheless, I'm.

grateful. Your journey was trying.

XENA

It was, though I wouldn't give it away

for the Universe.

HADES

(smiles)

Quite an experience, wasn't it?

XENA

You could say that, and by the way,

your mother says hello.

Hades stares at Xena.

XENA

You're her favorite you know.

HADES

(disbelief)

Really? She said that?

(beat)

I always thought Zeus was...

Xena smiles. A small flash of light, and a small white kitten APPEARS next to Hades. Xena tries to stifle a smile. Hades looks a tad embarrassed as he picks up the kitten.

HADES

She was run over by a chariot.

Celesta brought her back.

(sighs)

I couldn't resist...

He gently strokes the kitten.

XENA

Never figured you for a cat person,

Hades. A dog person, yes. I mean you

can't have a dog with three heads and

not like dogs.

The Lord of the Dead chuckles.

XENA

I thought you couldn't touch anything.

HADES

Only the dead. And I have solid form

in the Underworld ... And the Orb is not

of this world.

(to the kitten)

Back you go, Arctica. Celesta'll be

worried.

The kitten mews as she VANISHES. Xena turns and walks with Hades. Gabrielle sits near the edge of the cliff, leaning against a large rock, looking at Hades, then writes on her scroll. Hades looks at her, smiles, a beat, then -

HADES

I was wrong, Xena, too complacent for

my own good.

XENA

Wrong.

Hades appears to take a breath.

HADES

In retrospect, killing me was the best

thing you could have done.

Xena looks at Hades, slightly impressed.

HADES

Though it hurt like Hades at the time.

He smiles, a pause follows.

XENA

If you're expecting an apology, Hades -

HADES

(shakes his head)

It's I who owe you, Eve and Gabrielle

an apology. I'm not asking

forgiveness. (beat)

I was scared, Xena. We all were. The

Fates predicted Eve would bring about

the Twilight of the Gods, the end of

the Olympian Order. Everything we

knew. I feared for my wife, my sister

and myself. If I was meant to kill

Eve, it would have happened, not that

that excuses what I tried to do.

(beat)

I see now the Twilight was meant to come

to pass. Eve was just the catalyst.

(beat)

What I ... what none of us realised that

the 'Twilight' didn't necessarily mean

the death - the end all of everything

for us, rather new beginnings.

Hades gestures to the trees.

HADES

Artemis' spirit is there, with the

animals she cherishes and those who

need her guidance.

(Hades gestures to

the ocean)

Poseidon's spirit remains there, his

fury and gentleness are one.

(beat)

After initial reluctance, Zeus, Hera

and Athena have gone on to other

worlds that need them. Hephaestos

has become a Guardian of worlds,

teaching them the beauty of the

crafts of the Forge and the spirits of

Demios and Discord are up to mischief

as usual...

(beat)

You were right, Xena. The mortals

of this world no longer need our

rule. Your will, hearts and spirits

alone are enough to guide you.

(beat)

The Gods came to this world to shape

it and teach the mortals to grow and

learn, but we let our powers go to

our heads, controlling the very

people we came to guide and protect,

though fear, because we believed we

were better and stronger than them.

And when the mortals used what we

had taught them, the Gods became

angry, because only we were supposed

to have the knowledge and power to

do those things. Kinda hypocritical

isn't it? We sealed our own Twilight

with our own arrogance long before

you or Eve were born and I'm ashamed

for what dominatrices most of us

became.

XENA

I'm impressed, Hades. Not many of your

kind would have realised, that, let

alone admitted it.

HADES

(smiles)

A pity I had to die for it, though

death is overrated, really. I

feel fine.

XENA

(smiles)

So where will you go?

HADES

(looks around)

I might stick around for a few

millennia. I rather like this place.

Xena gives him a look. Hades smiles and puts his hands up in resignation.

HADES

I won't intervene in mortals lives

unless they ask me to, I promise.

I've learned my lessons.

CLOSE ON YELLOW FLOWER NEAR HADES

A brightly coloured butterfly struggles with a broken wing.

Hades gently waves his hand over it, restoring it to health. Xena eyes him.

XENA

I thought you said you didn't have

any powers.

HADES

(smiles)

Well maybe a few.

The grateful butterfly flutters in and out of Hades' fingers.

HADES

(smiles)

Since my 'death' I've been given a new

appreciation for life, even for things

that seem insignificant.

XENA

(looks impressed)

I'm glad we had this little chat.

HADES

As am I, Warrior Princess. And thank you

again. You never fail to surprise me.

Farewell, Xena. Your journey is just

beginning.

He leans over to her, kisses her lightly on the cheek, then VANISHES, leaving a surprised Xena.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT: GRASSY CLIFF NEAR OCEAN - TWILIGHT

Gabrielle holds a scroll, looking at Xena.

GABRIELLE

I found this, I thought it was a blank

one, but it wasn't. Joxer wrote it.

XENA

(smiles)

What did he write? Or shouldn't I

ask, not that I mean to speak ill

of the dead, mind you.

GABRIELLE

(smiles and hands the

scroll to Xena)

I couldn't have written it better myself.

Xena unravels the scroll and reads in silence. A PAUSE FOLLOWS as she's reading.

XENA

(stunned)

Joxer wrote this? It's ... it's

beautiful ...

A tear escapes Xena as she looks up into the darkening sky.

CUT TO:

-- SCENES TO GO WITH VOICE OVER --

SHOW FLASHBACK scenes with Xena fighting with mortals and Gods alike. Chakram cutting through the air, sword whirling. Show scenes with Xena with Gabrielle. PLAY OPENING THEME -

HADES

(V.O - Over Scenery)

In a time of Ancient Gods, Warlords and

Kings, a land in turmoil cried out for a

Hero ... She was Xena. A mighty Princess,

forged in the heat of battle. The power ...

the passion ... the danger. Her courage

would change the world --

EXT. PLANET EARTH FROM SPACE --

FADE OUT.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hades charisma was not harmed during the

production of this motion picture ...

~~~~~~~~~

~ MORGANA ~

Gather Darkness

Come Eternal Night

Reign Destruction

Bring Death,

Pain

And Eternal Suffering

To Beings in the Light

~ XENA ~

1) Wicked One of Darkness

So Black Your Soul

I Command Thee

Open Your Heart of Stone and Ice

To the Living Force

To Love

To Joy

To the Light

2) Back to the Depths of Hades

I Command Thee Return

To Suffer for Your Evils

~ HADES ~ COMPLETING XENA'S SPELL

Until Tartarus Freezes Over

~~~~~~~