CRYSTAL LAND

THE CITY OF AYINLA

DAY. INTERIOR.

CLOSE-UP: ALAN stands before a large mirror, staring at her reflection.

She tilts her head slightly. Turns to one side. Studies her face.

Nothing.

Her expression remains troubled.

She touches her cheek, then quickly pulls her hand away as though frustrated by what she sees.

Behind her stands XENA, her personal maid, holding a dress.

XENA

Princess Alan, you are beautifully made. I wish I were even half as beautiful as you. I would be grateful.

Alan’s eyes narrow at her reflection.

ALAN

Are you mocking me?

Xena immediately drops into a bow.

XENA

I would never do such a thing, my princess.

Alan turns away from the mirror.

ALAN

Everyone says the same thing.

A beat.

ALAN

Beautiful. Gorgeous. Perfect.

She lets out a quiet, bitter laugh.

ALAN

Yet every time I look at myself, I wonder what they are seeing.

Xena looks up, concerned.

XENA

My princess…

ALAN

Don’t.

Alan faces the mirror again but refuses to meet her own reflection.

ALAN

Just because you think I’m more beautiful than you doesn’t mean you should mock me.

XENA

I meant every word.

Alan’s expression softens for a moment.

ALAN

I’ll dress you up like me someday. Then you’ll see how gorgeous you are. I’m no match for you, Xena.

She looks down.

ALAN

People only make a fuss about my beauty because I’m a princess. If I were anyone else… would they still say it?

Xena pauses.

XENA

Your beauty is not exaggerated, my princess.

Alan turns sharply.

ALAN

You see? That’s exactly what I mean.

She walks away from the mirror and sits on her bed.

ALAN

I can see you have nothing better to say today.

She pulls the duvet over herself.

ALAN

You may leave. I want to take a nap.

XENA

Of course, my princess.

Xena walks toward the door.

Before leaving, she glances back.

Alan is already facing the wall.

CLICK.

The door closes.

Alan slowly opens her eyes.

She stares into the darkness beneath the duvet, her face revealing a sadness she refuses to show anyone.

CUT TO BLACK.