Ep 5. The Path Not Taken

In the episode "The Path Not Taken," Xena and Gabrielle encounter a group of villagers who are being terrorized by a band of mercenaries. Xena recognizes the leader of the mercenaries, Marcus, as an old acquaintance from her past as a warlord. Marcus reveals that he has turned to a life of robbery and pillaging after Xena left him for dead during a battle.

As Xena and Gabrielle work to protect the villagers and defend against the mercenaries, Xena reflects on her own past and the choices she has made. She realizes that her actions have had far-reaching consequences, not just for herself but for those around her.

Meanwhile, Gabrielle befriends one of the mercenaries, a young woman named Tara who dreams of a different life. Gabrielle tries to convince Tara to leave Marcus and his group of thieves behind and choose a different path for herself.

As the fight between Xena's group and the mercenaries intensifies, Xena is confronted by Marcus once again. He challenges her to a one-on-one battle, seeking revenge for her betrayal years ago. Xena reluctantly agrees, but as they fight, she realizes that Marcus is not the man she once knew. He has become consumed by his hatred for her and his desire for revenge, and she must fight not just for her own survival but to save him from himself.

In the end, Xena is able to defeat Marcus and the mercenaries are driven away. Tara chooses to join Xena and Gabrielle on their journey, seeking a new path for her life. Xena and Gabrielle continue on their journey, reflecting on the choices they have made and the paths they have taken.