Ep 8. Little Problems

Xena: Warrior Princess season 5 episode 8 titled "Little Problems" is an action-packed episode that follows Xena and Gabrielle as they help a small Greek village overcome their fear of an evil beast that has been plaguing their town, killing their children and terrorizing their homes. The two women team up with an unlikely ally, a young boy named Thersites who is determined to rid the town of the creature himself, to come up with a plan to bring peace to the village.

The episode starts with Xena and Gabrielle arriving in the village and quickly learning about the deadly beast that has been haunting the town. They soon meet Thersites, who is convinced he knows exactly how to defeat the beast but has been met with skepticism and ridicule from the adults in the village. While Thersites initially tries to convince the women that he doesn't need their help, they sense that he is in over his head and decide to lend a helping hand.

As they begin investigating the creature, they discover that it isn't actually a monster at all, but rather a small animal called a "blink dog" who has been controlled by a magical collar placed on its neck. The trio begins to devise a plan to remove the collar, free the animal, and return it to the nearby woods where it can live in peace.

However, the situation becomes more complicated when they learn that the collar is guarded closely by a powerful sorcerer who has been using the blink dog to carry out his evil bidding. In order to disarm the sorcerer and remove the collar from the dog, Xena and Gabrielle must use all of their cunning and skills in a high-stakes showdown filled with danger and suspense.

Throughout the episode, Xena and Gabrielle also grapple with their own insecurities and limitations. Xena struggles with her inner doubts about her ability to protect the innocent and Gabrielle, still reeling from the events of the previous season, faces her own fears of being a liability rather than an asset to the team. Their struggles and eventual triumph serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and courage in the face of adversity.

Overall, "Little Problems" is a thrilling episode that combines elements of action, suspense, and introspection to deliver a compelling story about overcoming obstacles and fighting for what is right. With captivating performances from the entire cast, stunning visuals, and a powerful message, this episode is a must-watch for fans of the series and newcomers alike.