Seeking a way across the Mystic Mountains, Xena (Lucy Lawless) and Gabrielle (Renee O'Connor) are set upon by a group of highwaymen. A furious battle follows and ends when Xena slays their leader. Unbeknownst to Xena, the whole encounter is observed by a Mystic High Priest named Manus (Nathaniel Lees). When they enter a nearby town, they are confronted by warriors. Outnumbered, Xena is busy parrying the attack when Gabrielle is whisked away. As Xena
