Ep 9. Past Imperfect

Xena: Warrior Princess season 4 episode 9, titled "Past Imperfect," takes viewers on a journey through time as Xena is forced to confront her past mistakes and the consequences that follow.

The episode opens with Xena and Gabrielle traveling together on their usual adventures. However, they soon come across a town that is terrorized by a group of bandits led by Xena's old enemy, Cortese. As they attempt to stop the bandits, Xena is knocked out and wakes up in a strange world where she is back in her warlord days, leading a ruthless army.

In this alternate reality, Xena is confronted by her past actions and the pain she has caused others. She sees the damage and hurt she has caused and the consequences of her choices, as she is now forced to witness the aftermath of her past mistakes first-hand. Her army pillages and burns villages, killing any who stand in their way.

As Xena struggles with her guilt and regrets, she is visited by her younger self who is still a warlord. Young Xena reminds her older self of the thrill of the battle and the power of being feared by her enemies. She tells Xena that she can still have this power, all she has to do is continue down the path they started together.

However, as Xena remembers the events that led her to change her ways, she realizes the true cost of her actions. She remembers the death of her brother Lyceus at the hands of Cortese, the very person she is fighting against in the real world. She also remembers the moment she decided to turn away from her past and become a force for good in the world.

With these memories flooding back, Xena decides to take action to set things right. She confronts her younger self and denounces the warlord lifestyle, telling her younger self that it is not worth the cost. This confrontation results in a fierce battle between the two Xenas, and in the end, the older Xena prevails.

With her younger self defeated, Xena is transported back to the real world where she and Gabrielle continue their battle against Cortese and his bandits. Xena's return to the real world is met with a new sense of clarity and purpose, as she comes face to face with the consequences of past actions and makes a conscious decision to choose the path of righteousness and good.

As the episode concludes, Xena reflects on her experience and the lessons she has learned. She realizes the importance of confronting one's mistakes and taking responsibility for the pain they have caused others. Xena also recognizes the power of redemption and the ability to change one's path and make a difference in the world.

Overall, "Past Imperfect" is a powerful episode that takes viewers on a journey through time and reflect on the consequences of one's actions. Xena confronts her past and comes away with a renewed sense of purpose and the understanding that her choices can truly make a difference in the world.