The Awakening
Written By: Caina Q. Fuller
cainaq@yahoo.com
The journey begins approximately
Six Months After Xena's Death…
Fade In
Eve, having just learned of her mothers death, rides over the lush landscapes of Greece until she comes to Amphipolis and the family mausoleum. She rushes inside and locates the newest sarcophagus in the room. On it sits the urn containing Xena's ashes. It's clear who's grave it is by the large X symbol on the head of the sarcophagus. Eve touches it, her face a mask of grief.
Eve
Mother…I can't believe you're gone.
Eve collapses over the sarcophagus, weeping for her lost mother. We can feel the pain in her heart for we loved Xena too, but now she is gone.
Cut to:
Int-Lucifer's throne room
Lucifer watches Eve on a viewing wall that allows him to witness events on earth. He observes her pain with cold, uncaring eyes.
Lucifer
(Mocking)
Oh Mother… Your mother ruined my life but you will
make my existence sweet again.
He waves a hand over the viewing wall and it dissolves into an image of the war between Heaven and Hell. He watches as a young woman, the spitting image of Callisto, fights with a guardian angel.
Lucifer
(laughing)
They've grown so desperate they're using Guardian
angel's in battle now. Send his soul to me Rachel!
The demon looks around as if hearing his command. She runs the angel through with her sword and then tries to force him to the edge of the cliff they are fighting on. He twists her around at the last second and pulls her sword out of his body.
He then kicks her in the gut and she comes falling back into hell, landing before Lucifer. The new king of hell watches Rachel with disappointment and disgust.
Lucifer
You allowed one of those pathetic Guardian's to get
the best of you? I expected more from the daughter
of Callisto and Mephistopheles.
Rachel stands to her hoofed feet and dusts herself off, staring at him with disdain.
Rachel
He'll whistle when he flies from now on but I don't
suppose you're going to give me credit for any of
that are you?
Lucifer
If you're looking for someone to coddle you I'm
afraid you've come to the wrong place.
Rachel
In case you haven't noticed Lucifer, I'm busy trying to
fight your little war. If you have something to say, say
it. Otherwise shut up so I can get back to work.
Lucifer comes up out of his throne, grabbing Rachel by the throat. The demons lining the corner begin to cheer, hoping for a good fight to entertain them. He's never been able to make Rachel respect him, and her potty mouth is starting to wear down his last nerve.
Lucifer may be the king of hell, but Rachel is hell's princess and she's not about to let the new king manhandle her. She forces his hand from her throat but he kicks her, sending her flying for the rear wall. This time she stops her descent just before she makes contact and comes flying back at him with a Callisto-like scream echoing through the chamber.
He tries to fend her off by hitting her with a fireball, but Rachel swats it away as if it's nothing. Lucifer barely has time to dodge out of the way before he's hit with his own fireball.
Instead it slams into his throne, exploding it into dust.
Rachel attacks with frightening ferocity, and he can barely hold his own against her. From the look in her eyes we can see she is enjoying the fight immensely.
Finally he succeeds in shoving her away.
Lucifer
Enough!
Rachel
(exaggerated southern drawl)
Aw but paw! I was just startin' ta have a
little fun!
Lucifer
I have a job for you Rachel. One I know
you will love doing.
Rachel
(exaggerated reverence)
And what would that be my lord?
Rachel begins giggling, almost hysterically. She's powerful and a little unstable all mixed together, which makes for a serious threat.
Lucifer
Have you ever heard of Heaven's Gate
Rachel?
Rachel absently studies the crud in her fingernails.
Rachel
Of course. It's a portal that opens all
entrances to Heaven simultaneously.
Whoever holds control of the Gate can force
every angel in Heaven out into the cold,
leaving Paradise ripe for the forces of hell
to take.
Lucifer
Exactly. Only a select few know the true
location to the Gate. They're all safely in
heaven with the exception of one vulnerable
soul.
Rachel is momentarily interested enough to take the conversation seriously and she leans in for more.
Rachel
No kidding? Who is the vulnerable soul?
Lucifer
Your mother. She was one of the most
powerful souls to ever grace the pits of
hell. As you know, she was reincarnated
into the body of a woman named Eve.
If you can find her and induce the
Awakening, Heaven's Gate will be ours
for the taking. We could end this war once
and for all, with me as the victorious king.
Rachel circles Lucifer as he talks, her excitement growing by the second. She was excited at the possibility of winning the war against heaven, but her real motivation is seeing her mother again. She may be a demon, but she had genuinely loved Callisto during their time together in hell. Lucifer has an idea of this and hopes to use it against her.
Rachel
So we can bring her back home? We can make
her one of us again?
Lucifer
(smiles)
And better still, you'll have your precious
Mommy back. Wouldn't you like that?
Rachel tosses an arm around his shoulder and tells him a lie.
Rachel
It makes no never mind to me Lucy. You
know I don't go in for that sentimental
nonsense.
Lucifer
(knowingly)
Right.
Rachel
If I'm going to do this I'll need unlimited
access to earth.
Lucifer
Of course you shall have it.
Rachel turns to the wall where Eve is still hugging the sarcophagus, mourning Xena's loss.
Rachel
My precious Mommy indeed.
Close Up on Rachel
Fade Out
End of Teaser
The Awakening
Act 1
Int-Palace In Heaven
Eli and the archangel Michael watch Eve suffer over her mother's loss on a reflecting pool in the floor before them.
EliI can feel her pain.
Michael
I know. Try to remember that time heals
all wounds.
Eli
Yes. Speaking of time…mine has finally come.
Michael
If we are to save the location of Heavens
Gate, we must stop Lucifer from inducing
the Awakening in Eve. Are you sure you're
ready?
Eli
(nods)
I just wish Xena were there to help
us. I fear that without one as powerful as
she, we may lose.
Michael
You won't lose. You will do what is necessary.
I have faith in you.
Eli
And if I don't succeed in stopping Rachel
from starting the Awakening in Eve?
Michael sighs, dreading even the thought of Lucifer learning the location to the Gate.
Michael
If you fail Eve will regain all of her memories
from her past life as Callisto, including the
location to Heavens Gate. From there all
Lucifer will have to do is bring her back to
Hell and force her to partake of the fruit of
Hell. Once she does that…
Eli
She will willingly give up the location
to the Gate.
Eli nods, taking in the gravity of the situation.
Eli
What will I do if Rachel does succeed?
Michael
If Rachel succeeds Eve will have until sunset
This evening before her new body reverts back
Callisto. Hopefully this won't happen, but if
It does it will be your responsibility to…
Eli looks at Michael with anxiety in his eyes.
Eli
It will be my responsibility to do what?
Michael
It will be your responsibility to keep Callisto
out of Lucifer's hands forever.
Eli
How will I do that? You know my mission
doesn't call for a longtime stay as a body
guard.
Michael
I know. If Rachel succeeds and Eve
undergoes the Awakening, it will be
your responsibility to send her soul
back to Heaven.
Eli
Michael, the only way I could do
that would be to…
Michael
Hopefully it won't come to that.
Michael pulls his sword from the scabbard on his back and it morphs into a smaller version of itself. Now it is more suitable for a woman to wield. He hands it to Eli.
Michael
Make sure you give this to Eve. She'll
need it to defend herself against Lucifer's
demons.
Eli steps back, taking Michael's sword with him. They share one last look before Eli fades away.
Michael
Good-luck my friend.
Cut to:
Ext-Village
The sky is overcast but no rain falls. Gabrielle stands in the center of a small village that sits on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. She is working to defend the village from attack by a warlord named Teodore. The villagers are all armed and the town is heavily booby-trapped.
Gabrielle
I know you're frightened. You fear you will
lose everything you've spent your lives
building. I'll do my best to see that
doesn't happen.
The villager's cheer her but she quickly calms them down.
Gabrielle
Wait! It's important you remember one
thing: These are trained warriors. Some
of you will die today. Be prepared
for losses. Just know that I am ready
to give my all to save you.
A MALE VILLAGER steps forward, his eyes full of fire.
Villager
And we are prepared to give our all for
you Gabrielle.
Suddenly there is a loud banging noise as Teodore's men begin to ram the city gate.
Male Villager
In memory of Xena! Xena! Xena!
The people pick up the chant, and this touches Gabrielle to her soul. Her hand falls to touch the Chakram, which she has now learned to use. She closes her eyes.
Gabrielle
For you Xena.
The city doors bust open and thugs come riding in on horseback. Gabrielle unhooks the Chakram, separates the two halves and throws them in opposite directions. The halves cut ropes on either side of the main street, releasing two huge logs that swing directly at the foot soldiers storming behind the horsemen. The battle is on.
Cut to:
Ext-Temple to Dahak-That morning
A portal from hell cracks open in the ground before an abandoned temple to Dahak. Rachel comes flying out in full demon.
When her hoofed feet touch the ground she transforms until she looks completely human, though she isn't aware of it yet.
She holds her head back and sticks out her tongue to catch the cool, refreshing rain that is falling. She relishes in the feel of earth's nature around her.
Rachel
Now this is what I call paradise.
She bounds playfully up the steps and walks through the doors of the temple.
Dissolve to:
Int-Temple Interior
The once glorious temple is now full of dead leaves, spider webs and dust. The shields adorning the walls gleamed when the temple was new. Now, however, they were coated with rust and barely hanging onto the walls.
Rachel saunters further into the room and a shield falls the floor with a loud clang. She laughs in delight, clapping her hands together.
Rachel
Can you believe it? An honest to goodness
temple to some puny, powerless god. Mortals…
She rushes up to the altar where she finds a grimy mirror. For the first time she sees her beautiful face and she holds a hand up to feel her smooth skin. She doesn't notice Hope standing behind her.
Hope is dressed as the Season Three Gabrielle, and she holds a staff tipped with a wicked blade, an evil grin covers her face.
Rachel
Damn…I'm pretty.
Hope
At least you'll go out with a high self-esteem.
Instead of turning, Rachel tilts her head to the side to see who is behind her. She is thrilled it is Hope, for the daughter of Dahak is exactly whom she is after.
Rachel
You must be Hope.
Hope
None other.
Rachel runs a finger through the grime on the altar.
Rachel
This place could use a good scrubbing you
know?
Hope
You're right. I think I'll start cleaning the place by
scrubbing down the altar…with your blood.
Hope swings her bladed staff at Rachel but it merely passes through her, causing no harm. Hope blinks up at her in shock.
Hope
Turn around. Show me your face.
(Rachel turns around)
Callisto!
Rachel
Wrong. I'm much more dangerous than
Mommy ever dreamed of being my dear.
Hope attacks again but the blade just passes through her without causing harm. Rachel quickly tires of the game and flicks at Hope as if flipping away a bug, sending her would-be killer flying across the room.
Hope slams into the rear wall hard enough for pieces of if to rain down on her.
Next Rachel holds up a finger in a "come here" motion and Hope tumbles and rolls toward her. When she has reached Rachel's feet, the demon grabs her by the throat and hoists her up, preparing to do more damage.
Hope
Stop it!
Rachel
Ooh. Is that fear I hear in your hoarse
voice my dear? Oh my! That rhymes. Did
you notice that?
Hope
Who are you? What do you want?
Rachel
My name is Rachel…And I want my Mommy
back.
Cut to:
Ext-Amphipolis
A man rides into the village, calling for Eve.
Man
Eve! Eve!
Int-Mausoleum
Eve hears the man yelling for her inside the mausoleum. She kisses the sarcophagus and then rushes outside to greet him.
Eve
I'm Eve. What's the matter?
Man
It's Eion! Teodore is attacking the village
and Gabrielle is trying to defend them. Alone.
Eve
Thanks for the Message. I'll head out now.
Eve turns to mount up, but a green mist begins swirling between her and her horse (Brave Heart). Rachel solidifies within. She grins sweetly at Eve.
Rachel
Hello Mommy. It's so good to see you again.
Eve
Who are you? What do you want?
Rachel
My name is Rachel. I've been sent by Lucifer
to pierce the veil that is the lie of reincarnation.
Eve
In the name of Eli and all the powers
of Heaven I command this evil presence
be cast down.
Rachel
(completely unaffected)
You must be kidding me. You'd try to
cast down your own daughter?
Eve
Why do you call yourself my daughter? I
have no children. And even if I did, you'd
be too old to be my child.
Rachel
Now that's where you're wrong. Cut to:
Ext-Village
Gabrielle and the villagers continue to battle against Teodore and his men. Her Chakram flies through the line of charging soldiers in two pieces, cutting them down.
After a few men fall it rejoins and flies back to her. Once she has it she separates it and uses the halves to cut down the enemies attacking her left and right.
Gabrielle gives her battle cry and executes an impossibly high flip to the roof of a building where two men converging on one woman. When she lands she gives the men a feral grin.
Gabrielle
Ok boys. You wan to double team a woman?
Try it with me.
Thug #1
Just remember you asked for it.
She hooks her Chakram onto the clip around her waist and draws her Katana. Once she has dispatched the men she takes inventory of her people versus Teodore's men, and finds her side is winning.
Cut to:
Ext. Hut
Hope appears in the same kind of ugly green mist that Rachel appeared in before Eve in Amphipolis, giving us the idea she was sent here by Rachel. She watches her mother fight and snorts in disgust.
Hope
Gabrielle…
Hope enters the hut, shutting the door behind her.
Cut to:
Ext. Village
The villagers set off booby-trap after booby-trap, killing the men in groups. Finally Teodore himself makes an appearance by thundering in on horseback. He is cutting down villager after villager as he rides in, so Gabrielle flips down and lands on the horse behind him.
Gabrielle wraps her arms around Teodore's waist and flips out of the saddle with him. He lands on the ground before her and about six of his men rush her, swords drawn, but she quickly puts the pinch on Teodore.
When they see her do this his men hesitate.
Gabrielle
I've just cut off the flow of blood to his
brain. He'll be dead in less than thirty
seconds if I don't undo it. Tell your men
to surrender and I'll spare you.
(beat)
If you don't, I'll let you die then kill your
men.
Teodore is stubborn and he waits trying to call her bluff, but Gabrielle shows no sign of being anxious to take off the pinch. She stares at him, looking almost bored. Finally he cracks at the last second.
Teodore
Throw down your weapons. Do it!
His men reluctantly obey and the villagers begin to cheer. Gabrielle removes the pinch and calls over a few villagers.
Gabrielle
Chain Teodore's men and put them in
lock up until they can be tried.
Male Villager
(who started the chant)
Don't you mean execute them for attacking
us?
Gabrielle
(dead serious)
I mean bound them and put them in lock
up. There will be no more blood shed
here today. Have I made myself clear?
The people complain, clearly not liking Gabrielle's decision, but they do as she asks and begin to chain the men. Cut to:
Int-Villager's house
Gabrielle, bloody and dirty from her battle, enters the same hut Hope had disappeared into earlier during the battle. However there is no sign of her daughter yet.
Gabrielle is tired and soul-sick for Xena, and we can see this in her eyes. Her weariness goes a lot deeper than merely the physical.
Gabrielle
Xena…
Hope
Oh. How sad. You miss your precious
Warrior Princess.
Gabrielle's blood runs cold at the sound of the familiar, hard voice of her daughter Hope. She slowly turns to confront her.
Gabrielle
Hope.
Cut to:
Ext. Amphipolis-Eve and Rachel
Eve faces off with Rachel. The man who'd ridden into town calling for her unsheathes his blade and tosses it to Eve.
Man
Here! Use my blade.
Rachel
How cute. He thinks you can defeat me with
a sword. You know us demon types, don't
you Mommy? We're tough to kill.
Rachel draws a sword from thin air and attacks Eve, but the fight quickly turns to Eve's favor.
Rachel spits a long string of disgusting slime at Eve's blade and it eats through the metal like acid. Now that Eve's sword is vulnerable, Rachel quickly breaks Eve's blade with hers.
Rachel
You know Mommy, I don't like that outfit
you're wearing. It's so…I don't know.
prissy. That kind of look doesn't suit a soul
with the kind of fire you once had. How
about this?
Rachel waves her hand over Eve and her outfit transforms into the leather outfit Callisto wore when she made her appearance on Xena the first time.
Eve looks down at her body, clueless as to what Rachel is talking about.
Rachel
Be honest now. Doesn't that just feel
right?
Eve
What is this? What are you doing?
Rachel
This…is the Awakening.
Rachel's hand snakes out lightning fast and grabs on to Eve's face. When she gets hold, Eve begins to see images from her past as Callisto.
Image #1-A young 14 year old girl stands in the middle of a burning village as Xena and her men kill the men trying to fight them off.
Image #2-Callisto's father charges Xena and the Warrior Princess cuts him down. Callisto screams for her father and collapses beside his body.
Image #3-"Callisto" Xena and Callisto come face to face for the first time.
Eve pulls free from Rachel's grasp and draws the sword in her scabbard. Eve tries to take Rachel's head off with a fatal blow, but Rachel ducks.
Eve thrusts and runs her through, but the sword becomes stuck in Rachel's body.
Rachel
Why don't you stop fighting mother? You can't
defeat me with mortal weapons. Come
home with me now. We can get to know
each other again. Wouldn't you like that
mother?
Eve
I am not your mother!
These words seem to genuinely hurt Rachel but Eve doesn't care. She runs to her horse and mounts up, riding out of town. Rachel allows her to go.
Rachel
That's right Mommy. Run. You can't elude
me forever.
Cut to:
Int-Eion-Gabrielle and Hope
Gabrielle and Hope are standing face to face in the cottage in Eion. Hope is looking at her mother with a mixture of rage and longing.
Hope
I have one question for you before I
kill you.
Gabrielle
If you can kill me. I'm not the same woman I
was the last time we met.
Hope
(nods)
That's right. You're Xena now aren't you?
Gabrielle
There will never be another Xena. What
is it you want to know before we fight. For
the last time.
Hope
How could you choose Xena over me?
Why did you follow her instead of taking
over your responsibilities to Dahak as his
wife and the mother of his child?
Gabrielle
(sardonic laugh)
His wife? Please tell me you're kidding
Hope. You want to know the truth? I'll
tell you. Dahak tricked me into that temple.
He didn't ask me if I wanted to have his
Child. He forced himself on me.
Hope
(angry)
You're lying! You willingly gave him your
blood innocence so you could-
Gabrielle
I gave him nothing! Everything he got
from me he took by force Hope.
They share a moment of painful silence as Hope tries to absorb what she is hearing from her mother. It's obvious that Gabrielle's account of what happened during her conception differs with Dahak's account.
Hope
Father told me. You married him and then
left him to follow Xena. You deserted us.
Gabrielle
Nothing could be further from the truth.
Don't look at me like you're surprised. You
know your father is a liar. He always was.
The truth is, Hope, I had no choice.
Hope
You're the liar. You-
Gabrielle roughly grabs Hope by the shoulders. She's tired, angry and frustrated. She's sick of this old argument with Hope as well.
Gabrielle
I loved you! Xena was going to kill you
but I did all I could to save you. Hope,
you murdered a man within hours of being
born. I ignored that and because I did
you survived to murder Xena's son. It
never stopped with you Hope. We never
had a real relationship because we were
always on opposite sides of a never ending
battle between good and evil. We always will
be.
Hope
And I'm the evil one.
Gabrielle
Yes. As long as Dahak lives you will
always be evil Hope. For you there is no
redemption. There's only blood and pain.
And death.
Hope looks as if Gabrielle has punched her in the gut. She takes in a breath, shoves Gabrielle away and readies her weapon.
Hope
Like you said. Our last battle.
Gabrielle draws her Katana and faces off with her daughter for their last battle.
Wide shot of the two facing off.
Fade Out
End of Act One.
The Awakening
Act 2
Fade In-Eve-Road.
Eve rides hard and fast for Eion. However she almost falls off of her horse when another vision overtakes her.
Image-"Return of Callisto" Callisto stands over Gabrielle with sword raised to strike the young bard down.
Eve stops her horse and all but falls off as one vision after another takes over. This time it is from Callisto's child hood, the day she lost her village to Xena's army.
The vision is short and she comes out of it when she hears a noise near by. Believing it is Rachel, she jumps into the trees lining the road. The Awakening intensifies and Eve becomes lost in memories once again, and she tries to talk herself out of the memories.
Eve
It's not true. I'm not Callisto, I'm Eve.
My name is Eve. I loved Mother and
she loved me. Gabrielle will help me.
She'll fix this.
Eve returns to the ground and begins running to the next town where Gabrielle will be. As she runs another memory overtakes her and she stops. She is so completely lost in the memory she repeats young Callisto's movements.
*Thirteen-year-old Callisto stands in the center of a burning village. She watches as Xena's army raids her town. The soldiers begin killing the men and dragging the women and children into slave wagons.
*Callisto looks to her right to see her father pushing her mother and sister into a shed-like building. He doesn't see the danger of the burning tree beside the shed.
Eve reaches for Callisto's mother and sister, weeping as she watches the memories she is helpless to change.
Eve
No Daddy! Not the shed. The tree is
gonna fall! Daddy!
*Callisto-"Mama? Rachel?"
*Callisto looks up to see Xena ride into the village, a battle cry on her lips. She swings a mace; killing the village men she passes by hitting them in the face. When she reaches the center of the square she flips off her horse, lands and begins cutting down more village men.
*Callisto-"No! Don't hurt us!"
Eve
Please, don't hurt us!
*Xena pulls one of her men aside as he chases a village woman. The fires in the village are blazing and everything is collapsing around them.
*Xena-"How did this village catch fire?"
*Man-"I don't know Xena."
*Xena shoves the man away just as Callisto's father comes rushing up on the left and attacks her.
*Callisto-"No! Daddy don't!"
*Xena quickly cuts him down without a second thought. She looks at Callisto, her eyes cold and uncaring.
*Callisto-"Daddy!"
Eve
Daddy!
*Callisto runs to her father, who lies at Xena's feet, dead. She weeps over his body.
In the present Eve mimic's the movement's of young Callisto. She drops to her knees and weeps over a man who isn't even there.
*As Callisto holds him, the burning tree falls onto the shed. She can hear her mother and sister screaming as they burn to death.
Eve
Mommy! Rachel! Somebody help them!
Please, somebody…
Eve looks up at a ghostly image of the warrior Xena used to be, still blind in her memories of Callisto's youth.
*One of the soldiers moves up to pull Callisto to a slave wagon but Xena shoves him away.
*Xena-"Tell my men to move out. Release the women and children we have."
*Soldier-"What? But-"
*Xena-"Do it! This village is a total loss."
*Soldier-"Yes Xena."
*The soldier moves away and Callisto looks up at Xena, tears spilling down her cheeks.
*Callisto-"Why? Why did you destroy my life?"
*Xena-"I'm Xena. It's what I do."
*Callisto-"I'll make you wish I'd never been born."
Cut to:
Close up on Livia in the season five episode "Livia". She's repeating the same words.
*Livia-"I'll make you wish I'd never been born."
Eve comes out of her memories, covered in sweat and tears streaking her face.
Eve
Gabrielle.
Cut to:
Int-Palace in Heaven
Michael watches Eve as she mounts Brave Heart once again and takes off for Eion.
Michael
Eli is too late. The Awakening has begun.
Cut to:
Ext-Town Square-Eve
Eve dismounts and begins stumbling up the center of the war-torn village. Villagerswork to repair the damage done in the fight, but some stop to look at the strange warrior making her way up the street.
Rain begins to fall, and this seems to help Eve snap out of it some. However she is startled when someone taps her on the shoulder. She turns to find Rachel standing behind her with a stupidly merry grin on her face.
Rachel
Boo!
Eve takes off for the Inn, screaming for help.
Eve
Gabrielle! Help me! Cut to:
Int-Hut
Gabrielle and Hope are embroiled in a vicious battle. Gabrielle succeeds in breaking Hope's staff with her Katana but her daughter begins to use the staff like chobo's. To better defend against them, she sheathes the Katana and draws her Sai's.
Hope
I'm immortal you fool. You know you
can't kill me so why do you try so hard?
Gabrielle
You may be immortal but I won't go out
without a fight.
Gabrielle attacks with a new ferocity until she hears Eve's voice calling for help outside.
She turns to see Eve running up the street in the rain toward the Inn with a Callisto look-alike apparently flying through the air behind her, hands outstretched and ready to snag onto her at any moment.
A portal to hell opens directly in front of Eve and she falls in, though she does manage to grab the edge of the muddy earth at the last second.
Gabrielle
What the hell?
Hope moves to make the fatal blow while Gabrielle's head is turned but a distinctly male hand wraps around her wrist at the last second and stops her.
Gabrielle turns to find Eli holding on to Hope's wrist. Hope suddenly goes into a seizure as if she is being electrocuted.
Cut to:
Int. Dahak in his realm.
Dahak is dying from the contact with Eli, who is a Holy being. As Dahak screams, Hope mirrors him until Dahak finally explodes. When her father dies, Hope collapses to the floor, unconscious.
Gabrielle
Eli!
Eli
Save Eve. She must not be taken to hell.
Gabrielle wastes no time and dives out of the window. She does an amazing flip through the air until she lands right in front of Eve.
Gabrielle manages to catch Eve's wrist just before she falls through the portal. She hauls Eve out to safety and then turns to face the demon chasing Eve.
Rachel
I don't believe it! The Battling Bard of
Potidea in the flesh! I don't think you
have any idea how much my mother hated
you.
Eve
Don't let her spit on you Gabrielle.
Gabrielle
Spit?
Rachel does just that and Gabrielle manages to hold up her Sai's cross ways to deflect it. They begin to dissolve immediately, and she throws them down before the stuff can get on her hands.
Gabrielle
Those were antiques you nasty little
Bitch!
Rachel
Now is that anyway to talk to your grand-
niece, Auntie Gabrielle?
Gabrielle
Who are you? What are you talking about?
Rachel
My, my. Everyone wants to know my name
Today. I tell you, I can't recall a time when
I was this popular.
Eve
She's a demon. She claims she's my…
daughter.
Gabrielle studies the all too familiar face and shakes her head.
Gabrielle
Not your daughter. Callisto's daughter.
Rachel
You know, I don't care what people say Gabrielle.
You're not just another dumb blond.
(motions to Eve)
She is Callisto isn't she?
Rachel attacks and Gabrielle defends by separating the Chakram and using the two halves. The spit is disgusting but it has no effect on the Chakram, much to Rachel's dismay, and her fireballs are useless against the Chakram as well.
Gabrielle finally succeeds in kicking Rachel back into the portal and it seals shut.
Gabrielle
Eve? Are you ok?
Eve doesn't answer. She is lost in another memory from which nothing can get her back. Gabrielle looks up to find Eli standing over them, holding an unconscious Hope in his arms.
Gabrielle
Eli, what's wrong with Eve? What did that
thing do to her?
Eli
It's the Awakening.
Gabrielle
The Awakening? What's that?
Eli
There is much to explain but we can't stay
here.
Gabrielle
What are you doing with her?
Eli looks down at Hope, who looks so peaceful in his grip.
Eli
We take her with us.
Gabrielle
No. She was probably working with that
demon to kill Eve.
Eli
I'm going to have to ask you to trust me
on this one Gabrielle. She goes with us.
It's clear that Gabrielle doesn't like it but she gives up on her objections. There isn't much time before Rachel returns.
Gabrielle
Fine. Let's go.
Cut to:
Ext-Forest.
Gabrielle paces back and forth after having heard Eli's story. Hope and Eve lie near each other on bedrolls. Hope is unconscious and Eve tosses and turns, lost in Callisto's memories.
Gabrielle
So once someone is reincarnated and they
lose their memories of their past life, you
have the power to force them to remember?
This forced memory is called the Awakening?
Eli
Yes. This is what Rachel has done to Eve.
Gabrielle
And they want to take her back to hell to
make her to give them the location of
something called Heaven's Gate?
Eli
Worse. They want to resurrect Callisto so
she will lead them in the fight to secure
their stronghold on the Gate.
Gabrielle casts glances at Eve as she continues to pace. She's trying to absorb all of this information.
Gabrielle
You have to save her. You can't let her
turn back into Callisto. Don't you
understand? She's all I have left of Xena.
When I look into her eyes…it's like looking
into Xena's eyes. I can't lose both of them
Eli. I just can't.
Eli
I understand that better than you think
Gabrielle, but because the Awakening
has already begun, it's no longer a
question of if Callisto will return but when.
Gabrielle
(incredulous)
You're saying you can't stop it?
Eli
No, I can't. She's regaining all of Callisto's
memories. When that happens Eve will
have only a short time before her present
form dies out and she physically transforms
back into Callisto. The only thing we can
do to save her from hell is…
Gabrielle
What?
Eli
When she transforms back into Callisto I
will have to kill her body so her soul can
be released back into Heaven. That way
she will be forever safe in paradise, and
so will the secret of the Gate.
Gabrielle stares at Eli in shock.
Gabrielle
You're my friend Eli, but if you think
I'm going to stand by and allow you
to murder my best friends daughter
you're sadly mistaken.
Eli says nothing. There's no point considering both he and Gabrielle know there is nothing she can really do to stop him from saving the location to Heaven's Gate. No matter how good a fighter she is. Eli looks to Hope instead.
Gabrielle
That's another thing. I don't want her
here Eli. As soon as she wakes up she'll
find a way to give us up to Rachel. She
has to go.
Eli
Dahak is dead and Hope is no longer a god.
She's no longer evil Gabrielle.
Gabrielle
No longer evil? That's not possible.
Eli
Why not? Just as Xena redeemed Callisto. I
have redeemed Hope. Now she's a mortal,
the same as you, and when she comes to
she's going to need her mother to help-
Gabrielle begins to laugh, but it is bitter instead of joyful.
Gabrielle
Every time I've tried to love her or show her
Mercy in the past, someone has died for it.
You expect me to just forgive and forget?
Eli
Yes!
He speaks the word with force, sounding almost angry.
Eli
I know that Hope redeemed is your deepest desire.
You want to love her Gabrielle. I have given you
have that chance now.
Gabrielle
You're wrong. I don't want anything to do
with her.
Eli stands and takes hold of Gabrielle's shoulders. He's disheartened and disturbed by her uncharacteristic cruelty.
Eli
You have always had a forgiving heart
Gabrielle. No matter what wrong has
been perpetrated against you, you've
always managed to forgive when it matters
most. Are you telling me you
have a forgiving heart for strangers
but not for your own child? I'm giving
you a second chance with your
daughter. I'd think you'd be happy.
Gabrielle
You want to give me something Eli?
Save Eve.
Eli
You know I can't do that.
Gabrielle
Then find someone who can! I don't
care who you have to pray to but you
find a way to keep Eve from turning back
into Callisto. She's all I have left of Xena
Eli. I won't lose her.
Gabrielle jerks free of his grip and storms off into the forest, leaving Eli to watch over Eve and Hope.
Fade to:
Ext-Forest-Gabrielle
Gabrielle comes to a small clearing in the woods and bows to her knees. She removes the Katana and Chakram and lays them on the grass before her.
Gabrielle
Xena, you once told me the dead can hear
the thoughts of the living. I believe you
hear me now. What am I doing? I've
been fighting alone since you died. I've
been trying my best to carry on our work
but its so hard without you. There's no
joy in waking up to face another day.
(pause)
Now the only thing I have left of you is
being ripped out of my life and there's
nothing I can do to stop it. I finally have
a chance to be Hope's mother and all
I can feel for her is hate. If I lose Eve
I won't be able to continue. Not like this.
Not alone.
Eve (O.S.)
You're not alone.
Gabrielle turns to find Eve, still dressed as Callisto, coming toward her. Eve kneels beside her, wrapping an arm around her.
Gabrielle
Eve. You're awake.
Eve
That's the understatement of the year.
I remember everything now. I remember
everything that happened between us
when I was Callisto. I murdered your
husband. I murdered Xena's son, my own
brother and I…
Gabrielle gives Eve a strange look.
Eve
What?
Gabrielle
You called her Xena instead of Mother,
yet you referred to Solan as your brother.
Eve
I know. I'm so confused. It's suddenly
like I'm two people. Eve and Callisto at
the same time. I've done such horrible
things to you and Mother.
Gabrielle
That's where you're wrong. You didn't
do those things. Callisto did.
Eve
Don't you get it? I am Callisto.
Gabrielle
No. You're Eve. You're an entirely different
person now.
Eve
I may be in a new body, but I was just as
evil in this life as I was in my last
incarnation. I'm…I'm evil Gabrielle. I've
committed unspeakable horrors against
those I love in both lives.
Gabrielle
If you can remember your wrongs then
you must remember I forgave you.
(pause)
Now that you know the truth of your past,
you have only until the sun sets this
evening and you…
Eve
I return to being Callisto. I know.
Gabrielle
That's not all Eve. Eli says…that once
you complete the transformation he
has to kill you.
Eve
What?
This is one detail she didn't hear while she was lost in the Awakening. She's shocked and dismayed, but she wants to keep a brave face for Gabrielle.
Gabrielle
He says it's the only way to save your
soul from Lucifer. Once you're back in
Heaven you'll be safe, forever.
Gabrielle dissolves into tears but Eve holds her close, stroking her hair and making comforting noises to her. After awhile Gabrielle calms down.
Gabrielle
I've lost Xena, and now I have to lose the
only thing left of her. I love you Eve. In many
ways, I feel as if you're as much my child
as you were Xena's.
Eve
I know you do Gabrielle. I love you too. But
you need to remember that you have Hope.
Hear me out.
Gabrielle
There's nothing you can say that will
convince me to trust Hope, Eve. You
have no idea what she's capable of.
(beat)
Then again, maybe you do.
Eve
A good relationship with your child is the
most important thing in a persons life.
This is your chance to finally have that
with Hope. Don't walk away from it.
Gabrielle
It's not that simple Eve.
Eve
It can be if you let it. Promise me one
thing before I di…leave tonight. Promise
me you'll keep an open mind about
Hope. Please?
Gabrielle
(humoring Eve)
I'll try.
They hug one more time before they hear blasts coming from the campsite. When they return they find Rachel shooting fireballs at Eli, which he easily deflects.
Eve
Rachel.
Close up on Eve
Fade out.
End of Act Two
The Awakening
Act 3
Fade In
Rachel continues to fight with Eli until she looks to find Eve has returned to the campsite.
Rachel
There you are mother. Are you ready to
come home yet?
Eve
I am home Rachel.
Rachel
Oh no, no, no. Your home is in hell with
me. Come back or I'll obliterate your
little angel friend here.
Eli
As if.
Eli throws a ball of white light at Rachel and it slams her squarely in the chest, sending her to her knees. She writhes on the ground as the energy surrounds her like a straight jacket. She struggles to break free but to no avail.
And that's not the last of it.
Portal after portal from hell cracks open and demons come flying out, hissing at them. Eli tosses Michael's sword to Eve.
Eli
Use this! It's Michael's sword and
it's the only thing you have that can send
these demons back to hell permanently.
Eve takes the sword looks to Gabrielle.
Eve
Shall we dance Gabrielle?
Gabrielle
It would be my pleasure Evie.
Gabrielle draws the Katana and Eli hits it with a bolt of light. When she strikes a demon he explodes into a burst of green energy. Gabrielle, Eli and Eve begin to fight the demons off, "killing" one right after the other.
Hope finally wakes up, confused as to what's going on so she hides behind a tree.
As Gabrielle and her two partners send the last demon to back to hell, Rachel frees herself from Eli's restraint and rushes Hope.
She grabs her by the throat.
Rachel
Gabrielle. Look what I have here. It's your…
(senses Hope has lost her immortality-
grins)
now mortal daughter. Oh, isn't that sweet?
You had a chance to have your baby back
all nice and good but Eve here ruined that
by refusing to come home. Where she
knows she belongs.
Rachel picks Hope up by the neck and despite her resolve not to care what happens to Hope, Gabrielle starts to move forward to save her.
Rachel
I wouldn't do that if I were you Gabrielle.
Gabrielle
Your choking her!
When Eve moves in Rachel tightens her grip.
Rachel
You don't want me to hurt Gabrielle's
baby now do you?
Eve
Gabrielle's baby…
Eve is overcome by another flashback of Callisto in hell with her child.
*Callisto holds up a demon baby, kissing it lovingly.
*Callisto teaches a demon child to sword fight in hell.
*Callisto–"You're growing so fast Rachel."
*Rachel–"Mommy, why did you name me Rachel?"
*Callisto–"Mommy had a sister named Rachel. Xena killed her. That's why it's so important we win against the forces of Heaven. So we can destroy her."
*Rachel–"Will I get to meet Auntie Rachel, and Grandma and Grandpa?"
*Callisto–"Oh yes. You certainly will."
*Callisto looks around to make sure no one is watching her and then kisses Rachel, hugging her up close.
*Callisto–"I love you Rachel. You're the only good thing I've ever had. You will always be my Sweetness, no matter what happens. Remember that. Remember I will always love you."
*Rachel mimics her mother looking around for privacy, bringing a genuinely happy smile to Callisto's face.
*Rachel–"I love you too Mommy."
Rachel
I can hold her up here like this all day,
but I don't think she can hold her breath
that long.
Eve steps forward, slowly.
Eve
Put Hope down…Sweetness.
Rachel, who is staring at Hope, whips her head around and looks at Eve, hissing at the familiar nickname. Eve eases toward her and Rachel tenses, tightening her grip on Hope's throat. We can see the anxiety on Gabrielle's face intensifying.
Eve
I'm in a different body, true, but I'm still
your Mommy. I see that now...Sweetness.
Rachel
No! You're trying to trick me! You've
made it quite clear you don't want to be
my mother anymore. You don't want
anything to do with me.
Eve has a sense of urgency for the struggling Hope who is choking in Rachel's grasp.
Eve
That's not true. I was redeemed. I was
given a second chance at life and so can
you. Put Hope down. You don't want to
hurt Mommy by hurting some she cares
about do you?
Confused by the new and powerful emotions in her heart, Rachel slowly lowers Hope to the ground then lets go. Hope falls back, choking, and it's clear that Gabrielle wants to go to her despite her vows never to be Hope's mother, but Rachel is blocking the way.
Eve tries to ease up on Rachel, who takes a step back, then stops to let Eve get closer. Eve's eyes are full of pain of what she must now attempt to do, especially since she remembers the love she once had for this demon when they existed as mother and daughter in the pits of hell.
Eve
I remember you now darling. You were such
a smart little girl. You learned everything
I taught you so fast.
Rachel is almost child like in her confusion about what to do, and we see just how much she really loves her mother, and how much she wishes to have a relationship with her again.
Rachel
I was?
Cut to:
Int-Throne Room-Hell
Lucifer watches the exchange, sitting on the edge of his seat.
Lucifer
That's right Rachel. Let her get close then
take her! I know you're not falling for this
sentimental garbage.
Cut to:
Ext. Forest
Eve reaches out and strokes Rachel's deceptively sweet human face. Tears of pain well up in Eve's eyes. She now remembers her life as Callisto, and Rachel is once again her little girl, just as she was in hell.
Eve
Oh yes. You learned so fast. I was so
proud of you. I just wish I could have taught
you the right way to be.
Rachel
I've missed you Mama.
This seems to break Gabrielle's heart. Her words inspire Gabrielle and Hope to share a meaningful look.
Eve
And I've missed you. A soul can never
forget someone so dear to them as you
are to me.
Rachel
Mama?
Eve
Yes?
Rachel
I can't be good Mama. I'm evil. I was
born to be evil.
Eve
I know. I made you what you are. I'm so
sorry for that. I'm so sorry for everything.
Eve swings Michael's sword, trying to slash Rachel open and send her back to hell permanently, just as she had the other demons.
But Rachel's reflexes are sharp, and she jumps back just before any serious damage can be done to her. She cries out in heartbreak at her mother's betrayal.
Rachel
No Mama!
Eve kicks Rachel in her already wounded gut, sending her flying back into the last remaining portal to Hell. Once Rachel is gone, Gabrielle looks to Hope, wanting to comfort her but she resists the urge and stays put.
Eli
I know it's hard but we have to keep
moving before she returns.
Eve
(hurting over "killing" her child)
What do you mean? She can't return.
I used Michael's sword to vanquish her.
Eli
No, you only wounded her. She can
still return. We need to keep you safe
until sundown when the Awakening will
be complete. Come on.
They mount up. Eve gets on the horse she'd taken from Amphipolis, and Gabrielle holds her hand out to Hope.
Hope
Are you sure?
Gabrielle
Very sure. Come on. We'll talk when all
this is over.
They ride off in an effort to stay ahead of the forces of hell long enough for the sun to set, and Eli fades away.
Cut to:
Int-Lucifer's throne room
Rachel lies in the grime in hell, curled up into a little ball. She is crying softly and doesn't see Lucifer watching her from the shadows.
But we see him, and his face is full of disgust.
Rachel
Why Mama? Why? How could you
betray me like that? I thought you loved
me…
Lucifer comes out of the shadows and walks slowly toward her. He stands over her for a moment, and then brutally kicks her in her wounded stomach. Rachel screams in pain and he grabs her by her hair, forcing her to get to her feet.
Lucifer
You sentimental fool! I should have known
you'd let that soft spot for your mother
get the better of you.
Rachel jerks free of Lucifer and we see her face coated with tears.
Rachel
Don't you worry about my spots Lucifer.
Lucifer
Callisto made you weak with all her talk of
love!
Rachel
Weak? Because she taught me to feel
I'm weak?
Lucifer
Yes! It's feeling's that land people in this God-forsaken
place. I should know. And look where feelings have
gotten you.
Rachel
You know Lucifer, for the first time since
you took over this place I hate you.
Lucifer
Do you really think I care? Your job is to
bring me Callisto's soul! Not love me or
ponder the meaning of it all.
Rachel
I didn't ask to be created!
Lucifer
I've got news for you sweetheart. Nobody
does.
Rachel
What did you come here for?
Lucifer
I'm here to give you one last chance to get
this job done before we run out of time.
All of Rachel's fire seems to drain from her and she stands before him, her spirit broken. She's tired and soul sick.
Rachel
I can barely stand the suspense, so tell
me what it is.
Lucifer
The Awakening has begun. It's
unstoppable once it starts. Your mother
is returning regardless of if she wants to
or not. If you can have her here in hell
when she completes her transformation
at sunset, I can corrupt her and she will
tell me the secret location of Heaven's Gate.
Rachel
I know. You've told me this a thousand
times. What's the choice you were talking
about?
Lucifer
You can bring her back to hell where she
belongs and have your precious mommy
back, or, you can roast forever in the Lake
of Fire where I put the worst of the truly
bad.
Rachel
You sick bastard.
Lucifer chuckles, genuinely amused be the fear he sees in her eyes at this and the anger it inspires within her at the same time.
Lucifer
That's my girl. Fail, I will torment you for
eternity. Succeed and you'll have your mother.
Just like you've always wanted.
Rachel
Fine. I'll do that, but first there's some-
thing I have to do for myself.
Lucifer
Do for yourself? What would that be?
Rachel
None of your damn business!
Lucifer
I'm the King of Hell little girl. Every-
thing in this kingdom is my business.
Rachel
(in Lucifers face)
Well I'm hells Princess so no, everything
is not your concern. I'll return as soon
as I'm finished.
A green mist envelops Rachel and she fades away before he can object any further. Lucifer settles back in his new throne looking contemplative as he tries to figure out what she may be up to.
Ext-War
Michael and other angels continue to do battle against the forces of Hell on the same battleground seen in "Fallen Angel". While Michael is fighting he hears a whispering sound and pulls another angel to him.
Michael
Do you hear that?
Angel
I don't hear anything.
Michael let's him go and looks around as he flies into the air to search the stone pillars below him for the source of the voice.
He finally finds a pillar with only one being. As he flies closer he sees it is Rachel. He draws his sword, ready to fight. She holds up her hands in a gesture of surrender.
Rachel
I didn't call you here to fight Michael.
Michael
There's a first. What do you want demon?
I'm busy.
Rachel
I have questions that need answering.
Michael
Go to your master. He'll answer your questions.
Michael turns to fly away but there is something in Rachel's voice that makes him stay.
Rachel
Please Michael. He'll only lie.
Michael
(sighs)
Ask. I don't promise to answer.
Rachel
But your answer will be the truth. I know
that much. I was born of hell by two
demons.
Michael
True.
Rachel
I was never given a chance to choose to fight for
good. I was always told I was bad, and that I had no
soul. Is this true? Am I only what I was told that I
am or am...Am I more?
Michael slowly turns and studies her with something akin to pity. He knows she is here because of the love she has found for her mother, and perhaps this can be her saving grace.
Michael
You already know the answer to that
question Rachel.
Rachel
My mother…she hurt me today.
Michael sheathes his blade and walks slowly over to her. He gently takes her shoulders in his hands.
Michael
You must ask yourself: Which did your
mother's betrayal hurt worse? Your body
or your heart?
Rachel
I was told I don't have a heart.
Michael
Answer the question.
Rachel
(hangs head down)
My heart.
Rachel dissolves into tears but Michael takes pity on her and pulls her close, rocking her until she can calm down.
Michael
Yes. Your heart. You're right Rachel. You
didn't have a choice. You were forced into
hell and for that, I'm sorry.
Rachel
Save me Michael. I don't want to do these
terrible things anymore. I just want to
know peace and…I'm afraid of Lucifer.
Michael
Your salvation is up to our God, not me.
Besides, you're not the first one to ask
for divine mercy today. I will see what I
can do.
Rachel
(innocently)
You promise?
Michael
I promise. Until then do what your master
orders. This will keep you from suspicion until
I can work something out. Go.
Rachel
Are you sure that's wise? I might actually
succeed.
Michael
You won't. Trust me on that one.
Michael turns to leave but Rachel has a few last words.
Rachel
Thank you Michael. For being kind to me.
Michael
You're welcome Rachel.
Rachel watches Michael fly off.
Close up on Rachel
Fade out.
End of Act Three
The Awakening
Act 4
Fade In-Road-Next Day, two hours before sunset.
Gabrielle, Eli, Hope and Eve make their way down a road. As they do rain clouds have once again darkened the sky, threatening a storm. Gabrielle dismounts.
Gabrielle
Can you guys ride on? I need to speak
with Eli.
They agree and continue on while Gabrielle walks on with Eli.
Gabrielle
Eli, I don't think you've told me everything
about your reasons for being here.
Eli
You're right.
Gabrielle
Wanna fill me in?
Eli
My time to be reborn to earth has come.
I am here to find a mother.
Gabrielle
Who?
Eli
I had hoped you would be the one, but
something tells me it's not meant to be.
Your path as a warrior will not allow it.
Gabrielle
That and the fact that I'm not ready
to have another child. I have so much I
need to do before I can even consider
falling in love again or starting a family.
Eli
I understand. Believe me. However
you do have a child that needs you.
Gabrielle
Eli, I just don't know if I can forgive her
of all the things she's done. I love Hope.
I always have but…
Eli
You feel that doing so would be a betrayal
to Xena's memory. Gabrielle, the greatest
gift one person can give to another is love.
You cannot truly love without forgiveness.
Gabrielle
You have no idea what I've been through
with her Eli-
Eli
(touches her shoulder)
I know exactly what you've been through
with her Gabrielle. I also know she needs
you now more than she ever did. Can
you really turn your back on your own
child?
Eli looks to the sky.
Eli
It's going to rain soon. We need to get
out of sight and out of the storm. We've
made it to the second day without being
detected. Let's keep it up.
Hope
(calling back to them)
My fa…Dahak's temple is up ahead. Rain
is coming. We can take shelter there.
Rain begins to fall as Gabrielle mounts up behind Hope. Eli fades away and the three women take off for the temple.
Cut to:
Int-Heaven's viewing room
Michael paces back and forth before the reflecting pool but stops when a handsome blond angel appears. Michael shakes hands with the angel.
Michael
Micah! Old friend. What did He say?
Micah
Michael. Concerning Eve's fate, He says
Gabrielle will only know peace when she
silences her will.
Michael
(confused)
What does that mean?
Micah
I have no idea. I'm just the messenger
here. As far as Rachel goes Eve must slay
the demon in time.
Michael
Let me get this straight: Gabrielle will
only know happiness when she silences
her will, and Eve must slay Rachel to save
her.
Micah
Don't interpret Michael. That's not what He said.
Gabrielle will only know peace when she silences
her will, and Eve must slay the demon in time.
Tell them exactly what He said. Apparently they
will figure out the answers on their own.
Michael
For their sakes I hope you're right. I'll give
them His message.
Cut to:
Int-Lucifer's Throne Room
Lucifer sits on his throne. He calls out in a thundering voice to his legions. In every corner of hell, his voice is heard.
In one room, a group of souls are hanging by their feet. Demons beat them with whips. They stop their torture only to listen to Lucifer's speech.
In another torture chamber, a group of demons toss people into a lake of pure fire. We see inside the fire glimpses of souls writhing in agony.
In yet another room there are guillotine's lined up, about five in a row. Demons drag tortured spirits toward them to be beheaded.
In another room a man is trying desperately to climb from a pit full of snakes. The snakes cling to him as he climbs.
Lucifer
My children. The time has come when we
will take back our daughter Callisto.
The demons cheer at his words. Lucifer stands and pulls Rachel to his side.
Lucifer
You all know Rachel,
daughter of Callisto and your
former king Mephistopheles. She was born
of Hell
and it is she who will lead us to victory!
The demons begin to cheer Rachel's name, but all of her usual sarcasm and arrogance is gone. She looks at the demons not with pride, but with sadness, and becomes stiff when Lucifer wraps an arm around her and whispers to her.
Lucifer
You know the price of failure so you'd better make me proud.
She gives him a hateful stare and fades away in a green mist.
Int-Temple
to Dahak
Gabrielle, Eve and Hope enter the temple to Dahak,
soaking wet, and find Eli waiting there already.
Eve
It's freezing in here.
Gabrielle
I can fix that.
Gabrielle throws her Chakram at the altar. The disk splits in two and flies around the altar cutting it to pieces until it falls apart into neatly sliced sections. Everyone but Hope laughs and cheers. Gabrielle holds out her hand.
Gabrielle
Come back to Mama.
Obediently the Chakram rejoins and flies back to Gabrielle as if it understood what she'd said.
Hope goes over to a window, disturbed at the sight of the altars destruction. Realizing she's done something to hurt her, Gabrielle grin slides from her face.
Eve
Go to her.
Gabrielle
(hesitantly)
Hope? I'm sorry. It was rude of us to
laugh. He was your father.
Hope
He was the only one to ever love me.
Now I wonder if he really did. Love me I
mean.
Gabrielle is wounded by Hopes words. Eve and Eli watch the exchange.
Gabrielle
Hope, I've told you before that I did love you.
When Hope doesn't say anything Gabrielle turns her to face her.
Gabrielle
I've told you a million times that's I loved you.
Hope
I know what you said, but I don't know if you meant it.
Gabrielle
Our past is full of sorrow Hope, and we
can never
undo that. But we can start again. You were reborn,
so let us be reborn. This can be day one for us Hope.
If you want that.
Hope
It's what I've always wanted.
Gabrielle
Me too. I…I do love you Hope.
Hope
I love you too. I'm sorry for all the
things I've
done to you. I really am.
Gabrielle thinks back onto what Eli had told her on the road just minutes ago.
Gabrielle
You can't have love without forgiveness
Hope.
I forgive you.
Hope
I've waited my entire life to hear you say that.
Gabrielle wraps Hope in her arms for the first time in years. Eli and Eve watch the tender exchange with emotion, but the moment doesn't last long as Rachel and her demons arrive outside.
Rachel
Mother!
I'm not asking you anymore. I'm
telling you to come on!
Eve
Great. My long lost daughter is here.
A hole is blasted through the temple doors and we look outside to see about thirty demons waiting in the courtyard.
Eli
The sun will set in about half an hour.
If we can
just hold them off that long you'll be in the clear
Eve.
When Eve speaks, she doesn't sound all that enthusiastic.
Eve
Half an hour.
That's not very long. Hope, is there
a back door?
Hope
Yes. There are some tunnels in the
library, but I
have no idea where they lead.
Gabrielle
We'll take our chances. Everyone go!
Rachel sees them taking off for the rear of the temple. She looks regretful at the next order she must give.
Rachel
Attack!
The demons prepare to fly in but Eli holds his hand to the sky, muttering something.
Suddenly the rain begins to eat through the demons like acid and they explode one after another. Rachel makes it through the doors before the rain can harm her.
Gabrielle
What did you do?
Eli
I turned the rain to Holy water.
Hope
Brilliant Eli.
Hope opens a floor space in the library as Gabrielle bolts the library door, leaving Rachel in the temple altar room.
Eli
I have my moments.
Gabrielle
Careful Eli. Pride comes before a fall.
Cut to:
Int-Tunnels
Eli, Gabrielle, Eve and Hope enter the tunnels to find three possible routes.
Gabrielle
Which one Hope?
Eve
Does it really matter?
Gabrielle
Don't start acting like your mother
Eve.
I don't mean Xena either.
Eve
Ha-ha. That's really funny.
A green mist forms in the corner and Rachel appears inside. Gabrielle faces off with her.
Rachel
Mother, before you run will you tell me one thing?
Eve
What?
Rachel
Do you really hate me?
Eve
I don't hate you Rachel. I just can't help you in
your fight against good.
Gabrielle and Hope share another meaningful look. This is all too familiar with them.
Gabrielle
Hope, pick one and run for it. I'll follow shortly, I promise.
Rachel
I love you Mother.
Eve
I love you too sweetheart. Good-bye.
They all take off down he center tunnel, which Gabrielle blocks with her body.
Gabrielle
You spit on me again and I'll kick your
ass
worse than it ever has been before.
Rachel
You're little threat can't even begin
to compare
with the one Lucifer is holding over my head
should I fail.
Gabrielle attacks Rachel. They clash swords and Rachel manages to get Gabrielle's blade from her hand, but loses her own in the process.
Gabrielle spins twice, kicking at Rachel who ducks both kicks. Rachel sneaks in a solid punch to Gabrielle's stomach, who returns it to Rachel in kind.
Gabrielle belts out seven more punches, all of which Rachel ducks and dodges.
Gabrielle
You're good.
Rachel
I should be. I learned from my mother.
Cut to:
Int–Tunnel
Hope, Eve and Eli run down the tunnel at full speed.
Cut to:
Int–Chamber.
Gabrielle and Rachel continue to fight until Gabrielle finally gets in one good kick across the jaw that sends Rachel flying into the back wall.
She slides down, nearly unconscious. Gabrielle turns and runs down the tunnel Eli and the others took. Finally she catches up with them, only to find the tunnel is a dead end.
Gabrielle
We're going to have to go back.
The sound of demons coming up the tunnel behind alerts them that the way they have come is blocked off. They have no choice but to continue forward.
Suddenly an arm reaches out of the wall behind Hope and wraps around her waist.
Hands start coming from everywhere. The walls, the floor. They pull on Hope, Eve and Gabrielle, but they do not touch Eli. They attempt to fight the appendages off but they are unsuccessful. One demon's hand starts to choke Hope.
Eve
Hope!
Gabrielle
They're not grabbing you Eli!
Eli
Hold onto me!
When the women touch Eli the arms let go of them with screaming noises coming from the walls.
Gabrielle takes the Chakram and prepares to throw it at the support beam to block off the demons approaching from the tunnel.
Eve
Gabrielle don't! This is a dead end tunnel,
we'll be trapped.
Gabrielle
If those demons get to us, we're going to
dead end. Trust me Eve.
Gabrielle collapses the tunnel and they are thrown into darkness, but a small beam of evening light comes through from above.
Eve
You see what I see?
Gabrielle
I think I do.
Gabrielle throws her Chakram again, and it tears through the small hole in the ceiling. When she's created an escape route they begin to climb out.
Cut to:
Ext-Final battle field.
When everyone emerges from the tunnel they see the sky has mysteriously cleared and the sun is almost set. Suddenly Eve is afraid as Eli touches her shoulder.
Eli
Its time Eve. You know what I have todo now.
Eve
Gabrielle, I want to tell you that you were
like a mother to me. I love you and…
Gabrielle
Go. Be with Xena.
Gabrielle and Eve break down into tears and Gabrielle pulls Eve close in one final hug.
Gabrielle
If I could die for you I would. I wish I
could save you.
Michael
Maybe you can save her.
The group turns to face Michael, not noticing Rachel hovering above the group, studying them in the light of the setting sun. She can hear Lucifer's cold voice in her mind.
Lucifer
This is your last chance Rachel. Fail now
and you will burn forever. I will personally
see to it.
Rachel draws her sword and flies toward Eve and the others.
Gabrielle
He heard my prayers and those are His
answers? What do they mean?
Michael
I don't know.
Gabrielle
What do you mean you don't know?
You're an angel!
Michael
That doesn't mean I have all the answer's
Gabrielle.
Rachel lands behind them.
Rachel
I need to talk to you Mother.
Gabrielle moves in to defend Eve. She's not about to allow her to try anything with Eve at the last moment.
Gabrielle
You're not taking her to hell.
Eve
Gabrielle, I think I can handle this.
Please.
Gabrielle grudgingly steps aside to let them face off.
Rachel
You said you loved me. Did you mean
that?
Eve
Yes. I meant it with all my heart.
Cut to:
Int-Lucifer's throne room
Lucifer watches the exchange with disgust. Its time to end this once and for all.
Lucifer
I knew she was weak. Legions! Attack!
Cut to:
Ext-Battlefield
Rachel
Even though it means I will suffer for
eternity, I want you to know that I quit.
I won't try to take you back to hell. I love
you too much to do something like
that to you.
Eve
I know you love me Sweetness.
Eve takes Rachel into an embrace and as they hug, the ground begins to rumble. Suddenly, all across the field portals explode open and thousands of demons fly out.
Gabrielle
How are we supposed to stand up to that?
Michael
You won't have to do it alone.
A bright ball of light appears over the field, like the one seen at the beginning of "Fallen Angel" and thousands of angels fly from it to land on the earth.
Gabrielle
My God. The war in Heaven has come to earth.
The angels land and go into a massive battle with the demons.
Gabrielle
Eli, keep Hope
safe. I think I know what I have to
do to save Eve.
Gabrielle closes her eyes and tilts her face towards the Heaven's, her lips moving in prayer.
Gabrielle
I give up my will and all my desires…
Eve faces Rachel and looks down at the sword Eli had given her. God's answer suddenly has meaning to her.
Eve
I know what to do now. I know how to save you.
Suddenly Eve attacks Rachel, who instinctively fights back.
Rachel
I thought you loved me!
Eve
I do love you! That's why I have to
slay the
demon! Don't you see? Stop resisting me
Rachel. Trust me.
But Rachel doesn't trust easily. She continues to fight Eve. Eli, meanwhile, watches the battle rage around him.
Eli
(whispering)
My time has come and I have no one to take me.
Eve and Rachel fight while Gabrielle prays in the middle of the battle biggest battle Earth has ever seen. Hope, who has heard Eli, pulls him aside.
Hope
I heard what you said to mother about returning
to earth. Eli, you gave me a new lease
on life.
You gave me a chance to get to know my mother.
Let me return the favor. I will be your mother. If
you'll let me.
Eli
You?
Are you sure you're ready? That's a big
responsibility Hope.
Hope
I've never been surer about anything in
my life. I've
lost one child already. This will give me a second
chance at motherhood.
Eli
Thank
you Hope.
You have no idea what this
means for me.
Hope
You know, I think I do.
(hugs Eli)
I'll see you in nine months.
Eli lays his hand on Hope's stomach and his hand begins to glow. Slowly he disappears into her, just as Callisto disappeared into Xena's body at the end of "Seeds Of Faith".
Just as the sun is about to set Eve knocks Rachel to her back and looks deeply into her daughter's eyes.
Eve
I love you Rachel. You have to believe me.
Eve runs the sword into Rachel's heart and there is a brilliant flash of light. When it fades the field is empty with the exception of Eve, Gabrielle, Hope, Rachel and Michael.
Only instead of lying dead on the ground, Rachel stands beside Michael. It is clear from the robes she is wearing and the glow about her that Rachel has been transformed from a demon to an angel. She has a stunned look on her angelic face.
Rachel
I'm an angel.
Close up on Eve.
Fade out
End of Act Four.
The Awakening
Tag
Fade in-Campsite-That Night
Gabrielle and Hope sit next to the fire and watch as Eve talks privately with Rachel.
Rachel
You saved me
Mother. I have been given a
place in paradise forever. How can I
ever
thank you?
Eve
There's no need to thank me Sweetness. I
would have traded places with you if it
hadn't meant giving up Heaven's Gate.
You're my daughter. I love you.
Rachel
(hugging Eve)
I love you too. I just found you and I don't
want to leave.
Eve
Are they calling to you?
Rachel
Yes.
Eve
Go. I'll keep you in my heart always.
Rachel
And you in mine.
Eve
We'll be together again one day.
Rachel kisses her mother's forehead then steps back and fades away. After a moment of pulling herself together, Eve returns to the fire.
Gabrielle
Today has been a day of miracles. Three
women have been blessed with their children.
Family…What an amazing gift.
Hope
Family…What an amazing gift.
Eve
I will continue my mission as the Messenger
Of Peace. You know, with us as a team
the world will never be the same again.
After a short chuckle, Gabrielle grows serious again.
Gabrielle
Let us never take a single day for granted.
Let us never forget those we've left behind.
The three women join hands.
Eve
Never forget Mother.
Hope
Never forget Xena.
Gabrielle
(emotionally)
We'll never forget Xena.
Wide shot of the group.
Fade Out
The End.
