Xena: Warrior Princess (1995–2001): Season 2, Episode 9 - A Solstice Carol - full transcript
Over one holiday night, Xena and Gabrielle stage mini-dramas in King Silvus' bedroom to get him to change his bitter ways.
On the charge of evading
your taxes...
...I find you both guilty.
And I sentence you to ten years
hard labor.
If you won't pay what you owe,
then, by Hades, you'll work it off.
As to the charge of celebrating
the Winter Solstice...
...I find you guilty
of singing carols...
...and decorating a tree.
Twelve more months.
Take 'em away.
Yes, sir.
You heard King Silvus.
Remove the prisoners.
To the poor house with you.
Move it.
But we're too old
to live in a poorhouse.
Then you'll die there.
Senticles.
Yes, Your Majesty?
Have you prepared the eviction lists
for today?
Today?
But, sir, today is Sol...
Yes?
Today is so...
...late. So late.
Looks nearly dark.
Then I suggest you hurry.
Unless you want to add
your name to that parchment.
Court adjourned.
Now, no spying.
And if one of us
sees the other shopping in a stall...
...then she turns and walks the other way, agreed?
No peeking into other peoples' bags, too.
I mean, being surprised is half
the fun, right?
Right.
Nothing can cost more
than five dinars.
Then why don't I just give you
five dinars...
...and you can buy something
that you really like?
Because then it wouldn't be a gift.
Hey!
What was that about?
He stole my chakram.
I'll meet you out back.
Pardon me.
Coming through.
Now, all we need
is a Solstice pudding.
And a goose.
Don't forget the goose.
Lynal, can you get us
a goose, too?
One goose?
We'll need more than that.
The round thing looks like
the king's crest.
In honor of his cold heart.
Nice tree.
It's all right, it's all right.
-May I help you?
-Yes. That's mine.
-Lynal.
-I just borrowed it for the tree.
I was gonna give it back.
Funny how the ribbons bring out its shine.
-It's not an ornament.
-Flashy thing like that?
-What else could it be?
-Yeah, what else?
-Hear ye! Hear ye!
-Children, children. Settle down.
By order of King Silvus...,
...be it known you have until midnight tonight
to pay taxes in the amount...
...of 1000 dinars,
or face eviction.
No, wait, look around.
They're violating the prohibition.
I say, arrest them now.
I didn't know you did
gift-wrapping.
What did he mean,
"violating the prohibition"?
The children were just
enjoying Solstice.
Yes, but here celebrating the winter solstice
is a crime.
And anyone who gets caught
can expect to pay a price.
In the 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 will change the world.
XENA - WARRIOR PRINCESS
How could you work
for a man...
...who would put orphans on the street
on Solstice eve?
I like to eat.
When King Silvus outlawed
toy-making...,
...I had to take
whatever job I could.
-You were a toymaker?
-Nice try.
Let's throw him in the cell
with the guards.
No, wait, wait.
Senticles...
Senticles...
Of course.
When I was a little girl,
I had a toy made.
It was this wooden lamb whose mouth
would open when you pulled its tail.
-I loved that toy.
-I remember that one.
You know, it took me two days to
figure out that mouth joint...
...and weeks to carve his fleece.
Oh yes, he was a real challenge.
So now you work for the man
that put you out of business.
King Silvus sounds like
quite a guy.
Well, he's always been
a hard man.
But the queen used to temper him.
And one Solstice eve,
about thirty years ago...,
...Queen Inalia suddenly
died.
-He hasn't been the same since.
-I understand his loss.
But that's no excuse for banning
Winter Solstice.
That's true.
But as hard as his laws
are on others...
...I imagine the loneliness in him
has caused the king to be even worse.
That reminds me of a story
I heard once.
A story?
Tell us.
Ok, Ok, Ok.
Sit down.
Once
in a land far away...,
...there was this rich but miserly man
named Cresus.
And his heart was so hard...
...that his servants begged
the gods to intervene.
They sent the fates to
separate the strands of his life...
...so that he might see himself
more clearly.
Unfortunately, Cresus
didn't mend his ways.
So the gods turned him
into a spirit...,
...doomed to walk the Earth
forever...,
...as invisible to others
as they were to him in life.
I don't like this story.
Actually I didn't like the end to that story,
anyway.
And I bet we could change it.
Maybe.
If we tried.
Look, if we can change the king's mind
without changing his anatomy...
...think of the example
it'll be to the children.
Gabrielle, the eviction notice
is set at midnight.
If we don't stop it,
these kids are out on the street.
I know, but it will work.
-And what if it doesn't?
-We clobber him.
Please, just try it
my way.
Just this once.
In honor of the Solstice?
All right, if it means
that much to you...
But we're going to need disguises,
and access to the castle.
Hi.
33, 34, 35...
-That's it.
-You'll have to stretch it as far as you can.
We need everything on the list
to make it work.
Trust me, Xena.
If there's one thing I know, it's how to bargain.
You just worry about getting to King Silvus
without cracking heads.
Deal's a deal.
-Right, Senticles?
-I'll take you to him all right.
It's just that, well,
how do I know you're not an assassin?
Because if I was, he'd be dead already.
-Works for me.
-Good.
You get everything we need
and I'll meet you back at the orphanage.
You stubborn ass...
You've been nothing but trouble
the entire time we've been together.
Now, move.
Excuse me, sir.
That's quite an animal
you've got there.
You want him? He's yours.
50 dinars.
50?
That's what the tannery will give me
for his hide.
You're taking him to be skinned?
Look, how 'bout I do you a favor?
I'll take him off your hands for, say...,
25 dinars.
25?
That's half of what he's worth at the tannery.
Yeah, well you have to get him
there first, right?
45.
30.
Not a dinar more.
Let's face it.
I've seen healthier hides on a used couch.
Nothing personal.
What do you say?
35, and you got yourself a deal.
You're a lucky man, Silvus.
Now, surprise me
and be smart too.
Wake up.
Who are you?
How did you get in here?
-What do you want?
-My name's Xena.
We need to talk.
Listen, anything you want.
Take it.
Jewels, money, anything... Take it, take it.
Just have mercy on an old man.
The same kind of mercy you showed
that orphanage you're closing?
-Orphanage?
-You signed the order yourself.
Maybe so.
I issue so many.
Time's being what they are.
And whose fault is that?
Did you ever stop to think that maybe
if you eased up on your people a little...,
...let them
celebrate Solstice...,
...perhaps the times might
ease up, too?
Wait a minute.
You're one of those Solstice lovers,
aren't ya?
One of those rebels who thinks
that everything and everyone...
...should stop once a year
just to raise a glass...,
...eat a goose,
unwrap gifts.
Well, you know what I say
to that?
-Bet I can guess.
-Guards!
Guards! Quick!
You, petty tyrants,
so predictable...
But heed
my warning, Silvus.
Change your ways or suffer
the consequences.
Inalia's gone for good.
And so's the Solstice.
Break it down!
This isn't over, Silvus.
The truth is, it's just begun.
Stop her!
Inalia...
I'm sorry, there's nothing
I can do.
I'm afraid you have to leave.
Look, I know it's not fair,
especially on Solstice eve...
...but what can I do?
Look, I know, I know,
but Melana said you can't stay inside.
And the place is hers...
until midnight.
Look, I guess, I guess it's bunking
under the stars for you, my friend.
Now, let's go.
Come on, I'll stay with you
so you won't get lonely.
Tobias, come on.
You know, I'm beginning to understand
your former owner.
Come on, you rugrats, time to wash up.
Well, I'll be.
Just like Argo.
I wonder what Xena will say to this.
Nice work.
You just saved someone years in prison,
changing the sentence like that.
It's nothing.
I change a letter here, a number there,
hoping to do a little good.
But believe me, it's nothing.
So's your part in my plan.
It's nothing.
All you have to do is...
I won't risk being arrested.
I can't.
I'd die locked up in a cell,
closed in like that.
I couldn't face going to prison.
What do you think would happen
if the king found out...
...about these changes you made
to his orders?
Found out?
But surely you wouldn't...
-You couldn't...
-Of course not.
But the point is,
if he did find out...
...you'd be thrown in prison
anyway.
You're braver than you give yourself credit for.
So don't deny your courage...
...or the children.
And from that day on...
...we've honored and celebrated it...
...as a time of rebirth
for our wishes and our dreams.
The time of coming together
in joy and peace.
It's the shortest day of the year,
and the longest night.
But on this special night,
a new light...,
...a new chance
is born to us all.
So it's a time for miracles...
...and goodwill
towards all living creatures.
That's why the Winter Solstice
means so much...
...and touches us all
so deeply.
-I have a Solstice wish.
-Me too!
Let's hear it.
I wish we could have a big Solstice dinner,
with all the trimmings.
Me too.
I wish we could each have
a Solstice present of our very own.
I wish everyone in the world could be
as happy as we are right now.
I think those are all fine wishes.
Now, why don't we go and gather our stockings
and put them by the fireplace?
Come on, let's go.
You'd better hope this plan works.
Otherwise I'll do whatever it takes
to keep those kids from getting hurt.
She's a very physical person.
I completely
agree with you.
If the plan fails, we punch faces.
Until then, we do it peacefully.
In the spirit of Solstice.
Who's your friend?
Xena, meet Tobias.
Now, isn't he sweet? And he's trained
just like Argo. You just whistle.
He cost me all of our money, but...
...I couldn't let him
go to a tannery.
-Not on Solstice eve.
-It's all right.
I got everything we need
at the castle.
Now, all we have to do
is figure out the details.
And then hope I can
restrain myself long enough...
...to pull it off.
Silvus, wake up.
Silvus, arise.
Open you eyes.
Silvus, wake up!
Oh, what is this, the town square?
Who are you?
What do you want?
Mankind calls me Clotho.
First of the Fates,
whose province is the past.
Nonsense.
You're nothing but a dream.
Probably brought on
by indigestion...,
...a fatty piece of beef,
a bit of gristle. Get out!
And let me sleep!
Your commands have no sway over me.
Rather, I command you to arise
and walk by my side.
How do I know you're
really a Fate?
For all I can tell,
you could be a thief...
...or another of those
Solstice cracks.
Perhaps this will convince you...
...that time is mine
to rule as I will.
-I am the Fate of the past.
-Long past?
Your past, which I will show you.
Then you will turn to the present
with my sister.
And as for your future...
All right, I believe you.
-What now?
-Come.
-Where are we going?
-To a place you have forgotten...
...though it haunts
your every thought.
Dear husband.
Stop!
Come no closer.
I am but a shadow
from your past.
Sent to beg you...
...turn from your narrow,
greedy ways...
...before it's too late.
Too late?
-Great Zeus...
-Here, drink this.
Easy, big fella.
Steady, steady, big boy.
Hey, check this out.
A warning,
that our time is nearly up.
No, not yet.
Don't leave me, Inalia, please.
Not again.
I'm sorry, Silvus.
You've grieved long enough.
You must forget my death
on that Solstice eve so long ago.
Death?
What do you mean?
You didn't die.
You walked out on me.
I don't understand.
I was speaking metaphorically.
We, we shadows from the past,
tend to do that.
-Yeah.
-Meta... Metaphor?
Wait,
what's going on here?
What's happening?
Who...?
Is he all right?
Fine, but that sleeping herb
I put in his wine won't last long.
We'd better get moving.
I thought Senticles said
his wife was dead.
He also said
he'd handle Tobias.
We start phase 2.
You get changed and see what happened.
I'll meet you back at the orphanage.
Ok.
Come on, king.
Senticles...
Senticles!
Where are you?
Senticles...
Tobias!
Good job, boy.
Now, where's Senticles?
What?
Are you trying to tell me something?
Do you know where Senticles is?
Ok, let's find him.
Smart donkey.
Silvus, wake up.
Am I to understand that you are...?
Lachesis, second of the Fates,
here to show your present.
Now, arise and dress.
Put on these?
But I'm the king.
Why would I wear
something common as this?
Tonight we go
among your subjects...
...as anonymous to them
as they are to you.
The better to show you
how your cruel laws...
...and harsh judgments affect them.
To what point?
In hopes I'll change my life?
In the hopes that you might
change theirs.
Unless you'd like me
to find a more...
...forceful way of persuading you.
You won't be needing that.
Hello. Senticles.
Are you in there? Hello.
It's me, Gabrielle.
Senticles?
What happened?
You were supposed to stay
with Tobias.
You know, Xena and I
were nearly caught.
So was I.
Two guards came by.
If I hadn't run,
I don't know what would have happened.
-You ran away?
-Well, what else could I do?
You didn't expect me to stay there
and get caught, did you?
No.
But what about us?
What about Tobias?
You forget,
I've seen your warrior friend in action.
I knew you'd be ok.
As for the donkey...
What are they gonna do to a donkey?
Whereas me, they could lock in prison
for the rest of my life.
It's like I told your friend,
I can't do that.
I can't.
Shut up in a small space...
...I'd die.
I'm sorry if I let you down...
...but I warned you,
I'm no hero.
So, why don't you just go, all right,
just leave me alone! Go!
What is all this?
It's nothing.
I shouldn't have left them out.
Are you crazy?
It's amazing.
Look at all these toy.
Her eyes open and close.
Yes, well, that's because
I use this little...
Look at this.
This is exactly like the toy
I had growing up.
Remember?
I told you how much it meant
to me.
All these toys.
They'd mean so much to the orphans too,
don't you think?
Every child could
have a toy of his very own.
That would be true...
...if they were legal,
which they aren't.
Well, don't worry about that.
By the time we're done
with King Silvus...
...he'll be handing them out
himself.
We could use this.
We could take the toys
to the orphanage and hide them.
And I'll have to disguise you
just in case we do run into guards.
-We don't want them to recognize you.
-No, I won't risk going to prison.
Look, you say you're afraid
of small spaces.
Well, that's exactly
how you live your whole life.
In a small space, afraid
to stand up for yourself or anyone else.
Don't you see?
What you're most afraid will happen, has happened?
The question is,
what are you going to do about it?
I know...
I know it's late.
So slam the door if you want to.
-Wouldn't surprise me a bit.
-Slam the door?
On Solstice eve?
That's a good one. Come in.
-How can I help you?
-Well, we are...
-...We're...
-Strangers.
Strangers, right.
We're strangers.
We've been travelling
all day and...
-Need a bit of food and drink.
-Well, we don't have much.
But you're welcome
to share what we've got.
The charity of your king
and country is legendary.
Our king? Charitable?
-You really are strangers here.
-What's that supposed to mean?
Just that, King Silvus is the meanest,
most tight-fisted ruler this side of the Aegean.
-Is that so?
-Absolutely.
You've heard of Midas, right?
Greediest man in the world
until Hercules helped him.
Well, our king makes him
look like Lady Bountiful.
-Surely, you exaggerate.
-I wish.
This is an orphanage.
And 'cause we can't pay our taxes...,
...King Silvus is kicking us out of here
at midnight.
What kind of king does that to kids
on Solstice eve?
Good question.
-Coast is clear.
-Let's go.
Come on, Tobias.
Remember the king's command.
Any resistance, we storm in full force.
-Look, they're headed straight for the orphanage.
-We have to warn Melana.
How?
They'll be guarding the doors.
Well, then we'll find
another way inside.
Ok?
Come on.
Stars tonight, oh skies excite
On Solstice night
On Solstice night
Chestnuts while burns bright
Solstice night is here
Snow so white
casts winter's light
On Solstice night
This quiet night
Our song so light
sends hope of light
This longest night of the year
Time of wonder,
time for cheer
The greatest time of all
Can't help it
when the love we share
Shines bright in everyone
Take me home.
I've seen and heard enough.
Enough to stop
your eviction?
Enough to bring back
Winter Solstice?
Enough!
I won't be lectured.
Especially when
it's all your fault.
My fault?
If you, Fates,
hadn't separated Inalia and me...
...I might have been a different man,
a better king.
But you did,
you let her leave.
She walked out on me,
just as I'm walking out on you right now.
Happy Solstice!
Halt!
You're under arrest by order of the king.
Don't be absurd.
I am the king.
Right, and I'm the queen of the amazons.
Seize them!
Hold it, boys.
Where's your holiday spirit?
What are you waiting for?
Arrest them.
Did you see that? They attacked me.
Me, their king.
You and your friend better go.
I'm not going anywhere.
Xena!
Thank the gods it's you!
The guards in the basement
have escaped.
Believe me, Lynal, that is the least
of our worries.
Attention, everyone in the building.
Either you come out voluntarily,
or we're coming in to get you.
But either way, you're gone.
Are you sure he'll be all right?
His pulse is strong.
Once the shock wears off, he should be fine.
Dear gods, I hope so.
On second thought,
maybe you should stay with him...
-...just in case anything develops.
-But I can't.
-I mean, what about the children?
-Lynal will look after them. Right?
Well, sure,
but who's gonna help you?
Go and see to the kids.
The reinforcements have arrived.
I did it!
The gods be praised!
I did it!
That chimney is dark and cold
as a grave.
But I just grabbed
my sack of toys and...
Down I came!
And you know what?
I liked it!
I did, it was fun!
By Zeus!
I'm gonna do that every Solstice eve!
Just see if I don't.
That's great, Senticles,
but we've got a problem here.
Xena, there are a troup of guards
outside.
I know.
I guess my plan didn't work,
after all.
So I guess we have
to slash and crash...
But thanks for trying.
Back to business as usual,
right?
All right, we gave 'em a chance.
Now, in the name of King Silvus...
...attack!
Let the games begin.
Boys!
Come and get your Solstice present.
You wanna help me play with it?
The gods defend me.
You're the third one.
The Fate of the future, am I right?
Atropos.
Come to show me my...
What is it?
What is this place?
Tell me, why am I here?
It's dark and cold as a...
...grave.
Is that it?
Is this my tomb?
And that noise like souls crying out in pain.
Is this my future?
No, don't leave me.
Just tell me, does it have to be?
This place, my death?
Can it change if I change my life?
Please.
I don't want to die alone.
I've lived that way for thirty years.
I can change.
I know I can.
No!
I won't go with you, not yet.
You'll see, I'll show you.
I'll prove to you, I'm not the man I was.
I'm not!
Great stocking stuffers.
Go ahead.
Make my day.
Thanks.
Gabrielle, get me a sword.
This guy's driving me nuts.
Come on.
Load your weapons!
Ready!
Fire!
You call yourself soldiers?
Getting beaten by women and children?
Right. Come on!
-We'll make them pay.
-You're pathetic!
-Now, tighten your ranks.
-Come on.
Charge!
Did you see them run?
Like rabbits! Yes, sir!
There'll be no evictions here!
Not tonight! Not ever!
Your Majesty, this is the woman
who runs the orphanage. Her name's...
Inalia.
Yes.
My dearest wife.
Can you ever forgive me
for closing my heart to you...
...and to our people?
For wasting thirty precious years
in bitterness and greed?
I know I don't deserve it but,
please, say you'll try.
I heard what you said.
And I forgive you with all my heart.
I guess you got that happy ending
you wanted.
And then some.
Excuse me, please.
Could you tell us
which is the road going west?
You're on it.
There's a town on the way,
if you're looking for food and shelter.
We'd be happy to help you
get there.
You're very kind,
but we're in a hurry.
Come, dear.
The caravan won't wait.
-Yes, we're coming.
-Wait a minute.
If you're in a hurry, then wouldn't it be faster
if your wife and child rode the distance.
Well, of course,
but we don't have the means to...
You do now.
For us?
But it's too much.
We can't accept it.
Sure you can, if you can whistle.
Call it
a Solstice gift...
...for the baby.
May God smile on you always
for your kindness.
Thank you.
Now take good care of these people, ok?
Don't be stubborn.
I'll miss you too.
That was a nice thing you did back there.
What would I do with a silly old donkey,
anyway?
They needed him more than me.
Besides,
they seem pretty nice.
-After all, it is Solstice.
-That's right.
Happy Solstice.
Well, what...?
I don't have a gift for you.
Gabrielle, you are a gift to me.
Subtitles: @marlonrock1986 (^^V^^)
your taxes...
...I find you both guilty.
And I sentence you to ten years
hard labor.
If you won't pay what you owe,
then, by Hades, you'll work it off.
As to the charge of celebrating
the Winter Solstice...
...I find you guilty
of singing carols...
...and decorating a tree.
Twelve more months.
Take 'em away.
Yes, sir.
You heard King Silvus.
Remove the prisoners.
To the poor house with you.
Move it.
But we're too old
to live in a poorhouse.
Then you'll die there.
Senticles.
Yes, Your Majesty?
Have you prepared the eviction lists
for today?
Today?
But, sir, today is Sol...
Yes?
Today is so...
...late. So late.
Looks nearly dark.
Then I suggest you hurry.
Unless you want to add
your name to that parchment.
Court adjourned.
Now, no spying.
And if one of us
sees the other shopping in a stall...
...then she turns and walks the other way, agreed?
No peeking into other peoples' bags, too.
I mean, being surprised is half
the fun, right?
Right.
Nothing can cost more
than five dinars.
Then why don't I just give you
five dinars...
...and you can buy something
that you really like?
Because then it wouldn't be a gift.
Hey!
What was that about?
He stole my chakram.
I'll meet you out back.
Pardon me.
Coming through.
Now, all we need
is a Solstice pudding.
And a goose.
Don't forget the goose.
Lynal, can you get us
a goose, too?
One goose?
We'll need more than that.
The round thing looks like
the king's crest.
In honor of his cold heart.
Nice tree.
It's all right, it's all right.
-May I help you?
-Yes. That's mine.
-Lynal.
-I just borrowed it for the tree.
I was gonna give it back.
Funny how the ribbons bring out its shine.
-It's not an ornament.
-Flashy thing like that?
-What else could it be?
-Yeah, what else?
-Hear ye! Hear ye!
-Children, children. Settle down.
By order of King Silvus...,
...be it known you have until midnight tonight
to pay taxes in the amount...
...of 1000 dinars,
or face eviction.
No, wait, look around.
They're violating the prohibition.
I say, arrest them now.
I didn't know you did
gift-wrapping.
What did he mean,
"violating the prohibition"?
The children were just
enjoying Solstice.
Yes, but here celebrating the winter solstice
is a crime.
And anyone who gets caught
can expect to pay a price.
In the 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 will change the world.
XENA - WARRIOR PRINCESS
How could you work
for a man...
...who would put orphans on the street
on Solstice eve?
I like to eat.
When King Silvus outlawed
toy-making...,
...I had to take
whatever job I could.
-You were a toymaker?
-Nice try.
Let's throw him in the cell
with the guards.
No, wait, wait.
Senticles...
Senticles...
Of course.
When I was a little girl,
I had a toy made.
It was this wooden lamb whose mouth
would open when you pulled its tail.
-I loved that toy.
-I remember that one.
You know, it took me two days to
figure out that mouth joint...
...and weeks to carve his fleece.
Oh yes, he was a real challenge.
So now you work for the man
that put you out of business.
King Silvus sounds like
quite a guy.
Well, he's always been
a hard man.
But the queen used to temper him.
And one Solstice eve,
about thirty years ago...,
...Queen Inalia suddenly
died.
-He hasn't been the same since.
-I understand his loss.
But that's no excuse for banning
Winter Solstice.
That's true.
But as hard as his laws
are on others...
...I imagine the loneliness in him
has caused the king to be even worse.
That reminds me of a story
I heard once.
A story?
Tell us.
Ok, Ok, Ok.
Sit down.
Once
in a land far away...,
...there was this rich but miserly man
named Cresus.
And his heart was so hard...
...that his servants begged
the gods to intervene.
They sent the fates to
separate the strands of his life...
...so that he might see himself
more clearly.
Unfortunately, Cresus
didn't mend his ways.
So the gods turned him
into a spirit...,
...doomed to walk the Earth
forever...,
...as invisible to others
as they were to him in life.
I don't like this story.
Actually I didn't like the end to that story,
anyway.
And I bet we could change it.
Maybe.
If we tried.
Look, if we can change the king's mind
without changing his anatomy...
...think of the example
it'll be to the children.
Gabrielle, the eviction notice
is set at midnight.
If we don't stop it,
these kids are out on the street.
I know, but it will work.
-And what if it doesn't?
-We clobber him.
Please, just try it
my way.
Just this once.
In honor of the Solstice?
All right, if it means
that much to you...
But we're going to need disguises,
and access to the castle.
Hi.
33, 34, 35...
-That's it.
-You'll have to stretch it as far as you can.
We need everything on the list
to make it work.
Trust me, Xena.
If there's one thing I know, it's how to bargain.
You just worry about getting to King Silvus
without cracking heads.
Deal's a deal.
-Right, Senticles?
-I'll take you to him all right.
It's just that, well,
how do I know you're not an assassin?
Because if I was, he'd be dead already.
-Works for me.
-Good.
You get everything we need
and I'll meet you back at the orphanage.
You stubborn ass...
You've been nothing but trouble
the entire time we've been together.
Now, move.
Excuse me, sir.
That's quite an animal
you've got there.
You want him? He's yours.
50 dinars.
50?
That's what the tannery will give me
for his hide.
You're taking him to be skinned?
Look, how 'bout I do you a favor?
I'll take him off your hands for, say...,
25 dinars.
25?
That's half of what he's worth at the tannery.
Yeah, well you have to get him
there first, right?
45.
30.
Not a dinar more.
Let's face it.
I've seen healthier hides on a used couch.
Nothing personal.
What do you say?
35, and you got yourself a deal.
You're a lucky man, Silvus.
Now, surprise me
and be smart too.
Wake up.
Who are you?
How did you get in here?
-What do you want?
-My name's Xena.
We need to talk.
Listen, anything you want.
Take it.
Jewels, money, anything... Take it, take it.
Just have mercy on an old man.
The same kind of mercy you showed
that orphanage you're closing?
-Orphanage?
-You signed the order yourself.
Maybe so.
I issue so many.
Time's being what they are.
And whose fault is that?
Did you ever stop to think that maybe
if you eased up on your people a little...,
...let them
celebrate Solstice...,
...perhaps the times might
ease up, too?
Wait a minute.
You're one of those Solstice lovers,
aren't ya?
One of those rebels who thinks
that everything and everyone...
...should stop once a year
just to raise a glass...,
...eat a goose,
unwrap gifts.
Well, you know what I say
to that?
-Bet I can guess.
-Guards!
Guards! Quick!
You, petty tyrants,
so predictable...
But heed
my warning, Silvus.
Change your ways or suffer
the consequences.
Inalia's gone for good.
And so's the Solstice.
Break it down!
This isn't over, Silvus.
The truth is, it's just begun.
Stop her!
Inalia...
I'm sorry, there's nothing
I can do.
I'm afraid you have to leave.
Look, I know it's not fair,
especially on Solstice eve...
...but what can I do?
Look, I know, I know,
but Melana said you can't stay inside.
And the place is hers...
until midnight.
Look, I guess, I guess it's bunking
under the stars for you, my friend.
Now, let's go.
Come on, I'll stay with you
so you won't get lonely.
Tobias, come on.
You know, I'm beginning to understand
your former owner.
Come on, you rugrats, time to wash up.
Well, I'll be.
Just like Argo.
I wonder what Xena will say to this.
Nice work.
You just saved someone years in prison,
changing the sentence like that.
It's nothing.
I change a letter here, a number there,
hoping to do a little good.
But believe me, it's nothing.
So's your part in my plan.
It's nothing.
All you have to do is...
I won't risk being arrested.
I can't.
I'd die locked up in a cell,
closed in like that.
I couldn't face going to prison.
What do you think would happen
if the king found out...
...about these changes you made
to his orders?
Found out?
But surely you wouldn't...
-You couldn't...
-Of course not.
But the point is,
if he did find out...
...you'd be thrown in prison
anyway.
You're braver than you give yourself credit for.
So don't deny your courage...
...or the children.
And from that day on...
...we've honored and celebrated it...
...as a time of rebirth
for our wishes and our dreams.
The time of coming together
in joy and peace.
It's the shortest day of the year,
and the longest night.
But on this special night,
a new light...,
...a new chance
is born to us all.
So it's a time for miracles...
...and goodwill
towards all living creatures.
That's why the Winter Solstice
means so much...
...and touches us all
so deeply.
-I have a Solstice wish.
-Me too!
Let's hear it.
I wish we could have a big Solstice dinner,
with all the trimmings.
Me too.
I wish we could each have
a Solstice present of our very own.
I wish everyone in the world could be
as happy as we are right now.
I think those are all fine wishes.
Now, why don't we go and gather our stockings
and put them by the fireplace?
Come on, let's go.
You'd better hope this plan works.
Otherwise I'll do whatever it takes
to keep those kids from getting hurt.
She's a very physical person.
I completely
agree with you.
If the plan fails, we punch faces.
Until then, we do it peacefully.
In the spirit of Solstice.
Who's your friend?
Xena, meet Tobias.
Now, isn't he sweet? And he's trained
just like Argo. You just whistle.
He cost me all of our money, but...
...I couldn't let him
go to a tannery.
-Not on Solstice eve.
-It's all right.
I got everything we need
at the castle.
Now, all we have to do
is figure out the details.
And then hope I can
restrain myself long enough...
...to pull it off.
Silvus, wake up.
Silvus, arise.
Open you eyes.
Silvus, wake up!
Oh, what is this, the town square?
Who are you?
What do you want?
Mankind calls me Clotho.
First of the Fates,
whose province is the past.
Nonsense.
You're nothing but a dream.
Probably brought on
by indigestion...,
...a fatty piece of beef,
a bit of gristle. Get out!
And let me sleep!
Your commands have no sway over me.
Rather, I command you to arise
and walk by my side.
How do I know you're
really a Fate?
For all I can tell,
you could be a thief...
...or another of those
Solstice cracks.
Perhaps this will convince you...
...that time is mine
to rule as I will.
-I am the Fate of the past.
-Long past?
Your past, which I will show you.
Then you will turn to the present
with my sister.
And as for your future...
All right, I believe you.
-What now?
-Come.
-Where are we going?
-To a place you have forgotten...
...though it haunts
your every thought.
Dear husband.
Stop!
Come no closer.
I am but a shadow
from your past.
Sent to beg you...
...turn from your narrow,
greedy ways...
...before it's too late.
Too late?
-Great Zeus...
-Here, drink this.
Easy, big fella.
Steady, steady, big boy.
Hey, check this out.
A warning,
that our time is nearly up.
No, not yet.
Don't leave me, Inalia, please.
Not again.
I'm sorry, Silvus.
You've grieved long enough.
You must forget my death
on that Solstice eve so long ago.
Death?
What do you mean?
You didn't die.
You walked out on me.
I don't understand.
I was speaking metaphorically.
We, we shadows from the past,
tend to do that.
-Yeah.
-Meta... Metaphor?
Wait,
what's going on here?
What's happening?
Who...?
Is he all right?
Fine, but that sleeping herb
I put in his wine won't last long.
We'd better get moving.
I thought Senticles said
his wife was dead.
He also said
he'd handle Tobias.
We start phase 2.
You get changed and see what happened.
I'll meet you back at the orphanage.
Ok.
Come on, king.
Senticles...
Senticles!
Where are you?
Senticles...
Tobias!
Good job, boy.
Now, where's Senticles?
What?
Are you trying to tell me something?
Do you know where Senticles is?
Ok, let's find him.
Smart donkey.
Silvus, wake up.
Am I to understand that you are...?
Lachesis, second of the Fates,
here to show your present.
Now, arise and dress.
Put on these?
But I'm the king.
Why would I wear
something common as this?
Tonight we go
among your subjects...
...as anonymous to them
as they are to you.
The better to show you
how your cruel laws...
...and harsh judgments affect them.
To what point?
In hopes I'll change my life?
In the hopes that you might
change theirs.
Unless you'd like me
to find a more...
...forceful way of persuading you.
You won't be needing that.
Hello. Senticles.
Are you in there? Hello.
It's me, Gabrielle.
Senticles?
What happened?
You were supposed to stay
with Tobias.
You know, Xena and I
were nearly caught.
So was I.
Two guards came by.
If I hadn't run,
I don't know what would have happened.
-You ran away?
-Well, what else could I do?
You didn't expect me to stay there
and get caught, did you?
No.
But what about us?
What about Tobias?
You forget,
I've seen your warrior friend in action.
I knew you'd be ok.
As for the donkey...
What are they gonna do to a donkey?
Whereas me, they could lock in prison
for the rest of my life.
It's like I told your friend,
I can't do that.
I can't.
Shut up in a small space...
...I'd die.
I'm sorry if I let you down...
...but I warned you,
I'm no hero.
So, why don't you just go, all right,
just leave me alone! Go!
What is all this?
It's nothing.
I shouldn't have left them out.
Are you crazy?
It's amazing.
Look at all these toy.
Her eyes open and close.
Yes, well, that's because
I use this little...
Look at this.
This is exactly like the toy
I had growing up.
Remember?
I told you how much it meant
to me.
All these toys.
They'd mean so much to the orphans too,
don't you think?
Every child could
have a toy of his very own.
That would be true...
...if they were legal,
which they aren't.
Well, don't worry about that.
By the time we're done
with King Silvus...
...he'll be handing them out
himself.
We could use this.
We could take the toys
to the orphanage and hide them.
And I'll have to disguise you
just in case we do run into guards.
-We don't want them to recognize you.
-No, I won't risk going to prison.
Look, you say you're afraid
of small spaces.
Well, that's exactly
how you live your whole life.
In a small space, afraid
to stand up for yourself or anyone else.
Don't you see?
What you're most afraid will happen, has happened?
The question is,
what are you going to do about it?
I know...
I know it's late.
So slam the door if you want to.
-Wouldn't surprise me a bit.
-Slam the door?
On Solstice eve?
That's a good one. Come in.
-How can I help you?
-Well, we are...
-...We're...
-Strangers.
Strangers, right.
We're strangers.
We've been travelling
all day and...
-Need a bit of food and drink.
-Well, we don't have much.
But you're welcome
to share what we've got.
The charity of your king
and country is legendary.
Our king? Charitable?
-You really are strangers here.
-What's that supposed to mean?
Just that, King Silvus is the meanest,
most tight-fisted ruler this side of the Aegean.
-Is that so?
-Absolutely.
You've heard of Midas, right?
Greediest man in the world
until Hercules helped him.
Well, our king makes him
look like Lady Bountiful.
-Surely, you exaggerate.
-I wish.
This is an orphanage.
And 'cause we can't pay our taxes...,
...King Silvus is kicking us out of here
at midnight.
What kind of king does that to kids
on Solstice eve?
Good question.
-Coast is clear.
-Let's go.
Come on, Tobias.
Remember the king's command.
Any resistance, we storm in full force.
-Look, they're headed straight for the orphanage.
-We have to warn Melana.
How?
They'll be guarding the doors.
Well, then we'll find
another way inside.
Ok?
Come on.
Stars tonight, oh skies excite
On Solstice night
On Solstice night
Chestnuts while burns bright
Solstice night is here
Snow so white
casts winter's light
On Solstice night
This quiet night
Our song so light
sends hope of light
This longest night of the year
Time of wonder,
time for cheer
The greatest time of all
Can't help it
when the love we share
Shines bright in everyone
Take me home.
I've seen and heard enough.
Enough to stop
your eviction?
Enough to bring back
Winter Solstice?
Enough!
I won't be lectured.
Especially when
it's all your fault.
My fault?
If you, Fates,
hadn't separated Inalia and me...
...I might have been a different man,
a better king.
But you did,
you let her leave.
She walked out on me,
just as I'm walking out on you right now.
Happy Solstice!
Halt!
You're under arrest by order of the king.
Don't be absurd.
I am the king.
Right, and I'm the queen of the amazons.
Seize them!
Hold it, boys.
Where's your holiday spirit?
What are you waiting for?
Arrest them.
Did you see that? They attacked me.
Me, their king.
You and your friend better go.
I'm not going anywhere.
Xena!
Thank the gods it's you!
The guards in the basement
have escaped.
Believe me, Lynal, that is the least
of our worries.
Attention, everyone in the building.
Either you come out voluntarily,
or we're coming in to get you.
But either way, you're gone.
Are you sure he'll be all right?
His pulse is strong.
Once the shock wears off, he should be fine.
Dear gods, I hope so.
On second thought,
maybe you should stay with him...
-...just in case anything develops.
-But I can't.
-I mean, what about the children?
-Lynal will look after them. Right?
Well, sure,
but who's gonna help you?
Go and see to the kids.
The reinforcements have arrived.
I did it!
The gods be praised!
I did it!
That chimney is dark and cold
as a grave.
But I just grabbed
my sack of toys and...
Down I came!
And you know what?
I liked it!
I did, it was fun!
By Zeus!
I'm gonna do that every Solstice eve!
Just see if I don't.
That's great, Senticles,
but we've got a problem here.
Xena, there are a troup of guards
outside.
I know.
I guess my plan didn't work,
after all.
So I guess we have
to slash and crash...
But thanks for trying.
Back to business as usual,
right?
All right, we gave 'em a chance.
Now, in the name of King Silvus...
...attack!
Let the games begin.
Boys!
Come and get your Solstice present.
You wanna help me play with it?
The gods defend me.
You're the third one.
The Fate of the future, am I right?
Atropos.
Come to show me my...
What is it?
What is this place?
Tell me, why am I here?
It's dark and cold as a...
...grave.
Is that it?
Is this my tomb?
And that noise like souls crying out in pain.
Is this my future?
No, don't leave me.
Just tell me, does it have to be?
This place, my death?
Can it change if I change my life?
Please.
I don't want to die alone.
I've lived that way for thirty years.
I can change.
I know I can.
No!
I won't go with you, not yet.
You'll see, I'll show you.
I'll prove to you, I'm not the man I was.
I'm not!
Great stocking stuffers.
Go ahead.
Make my day.
Thanks.
Gabrielle, get me a sword.
This guy's driving me nuts.
Come on.
Load your weapons!
Ready!
Fire!
You call yourself soldiers?
Getting beaten by women and children?
Right. Come on!
-We'll make them pay.
-You're pathetic!
-Now, tighten your ranks.
-Come on.
Charge!
Did you see them run?
Like rabbits! Yes, sir!
There'll be no evictions here!
Not tonight! Not ever!
Your Majesty, this is the woman
who runs the orphanage. Her name's...
Inalia.
Yes.
My dearest wife.
Can you ever forgive me
for closing my heart to you...
...and to our people?
For wasting thirty precious years
in bitterness and greed?
I know I don't deserve it but,
please, say you'll try.
I heard what you said.
And I forgive you with all my heart.
I guess you got that happy ending
you wanted.
And then some.
Excuse me, please.
Could you tell us
which is the road going west?
You're on it.
There's a town on the way,
if you're looking for food and shelter.
We'd be happy to help you
get there.
You're very kind,
but we're in a hurry.
Come, dear.
The caravan won't wait.
-Yes, we're coming.
-Wait a minute.
If you're in a hurry, then wouldn't it be faster
if your wife and child rode the distance.
Well, of course,
but we don't have the means to...
You do now.
For us?
But it's too much.
We can't accept it.
Sure you can, if you can whistle.
Call it
a Solstice gift...
...for the baby.
May God smile on you always
for your kindness.
Thank you.
Now take good care of these people, ok?
Don't be stubborn.
I'll miss you too.
That was a nice thing you did back there.
What would I do with a silly old donkey,
anyway?
They needed him more than me.
Besides,
they seem pretty nice.
-After all, it is Solstice.
-That's right.
Happy Solstice.
Well, what...?
I don't have a gift for you.
Gabrielle, you are a gift to me.
Subtitles: @marlonrock1986 (^^V^^)