Ep 18. The Prodigal

Xena: Warrior Princess season 1 episode 18 titled "The Prodigal" follows Gabrielle, Xena's loyal sidekick, who has been summoned by her sister Lila to return to her hometown of Poteidaia to attend her sister's arranged marriage. Gabrielle is hesitant to attend due to her past betrayal of her family by joining Xena's side as she became a warrior. However, Xena convinces Gabrielle to return and make amends with her family.

Upon arriving in Poteidaia, Gabrielle finds that her hometown is being terrorized by a warlord named Damon who demands tribute from the villagers in exchange for protection. Gabrielle's father, Herodotus, tries to pay the tribute to save his daughter, but Damon increases the tribute and warns the villagers not to harbor any criminals. Gabrielle discovers that her brother-in-law Perdicus was once a gang member and is hiding from Damon. Gabrielle decides to help Perdicus and actively fights against Damon's men.

Meanwhile, Lila's fiancé introduces Gabrielle to the teachings of Bacchus, the god of wine, who is believed to have the power to possess people. Gabrielle is taken aback by this and finds it difficult to understand why her sister would be drawn to such a god. However, things take a turn for the worse when Lila is possessed by Bacchus, and Gabrielle and Xena must find a way to exorcise the god before it is too late.

As the episode progresses, it becomes clear that the town's people have been keeping secrets. Gabrielle's father reportedly died during a raid by Damon's men, and her mother was critically injured. Gabrielle's mother refuses treatment from the healer, Melas, whom she blames for her husband's death. Melas, who has a grudge against Gabrielle's family, is revealed to be working with the warlord.

"The Prodigal" stands out among the other episodes in the first season of Xena: Warrior Princess as it shifts focus from Xena to Gabrielle, diving deeper into her past and her family dynamics. The episode also offers a glimpse into the realm of supernatural, showcasing different gods and their powers, which will become a staple in later episodes. It is a thrilling and emotional episode that highlights the strong bond between Xena and Gabrielle and the lengths they would go to protect each other.