PREPARATION
373 Words
INT. AYINLA PALACE — PASSAGEWAY — NIGHT
Xena watched from the shadows as servants hurried through the corridors and guards moved with unusual urgency. Everyone seemed to know something she didn’t.
She stepped into the passage leading to the prince’s chamber just as Gideon approached.
XENA
Gideon.
He stopped.
GIDEON
Why are you standing in my way?
XENA
Can I speak with you?
GIDEON
I have no time for little talks.
He brushed past her.
XENA
(to herself)
I knew it would be like this.
She looked toward the prince’s chamber, troubled.
CUT TO:
INT. ROYAL KITCHEN — NIGHT
The kitchen buzzed with activity until the QUEEN entered. Everyone turned toward her.
QUEEN
Listen up. The prince is back, and we’re throwing a feast tonight. Everything must be ready within three hours.
The ROYAL CHEF stepped forward.
ROYAL CHEF
My Queen, but the King specifically said…
QUEEN
Hold it right there.
She faced the room.
QUEEN (firmly)
You will do as I command. Anyone who refuses should be prepared to leave this palace.
SERVANTS
Yes, my Queen.
The Queen exited.
ROYAL CHEF
You heard her! Let’s start preparing.
He pointed toward the pantry.
ROYAL CHEF
Farta, bring out the rice, spices, vegetables, and everything else we need.
FARTA
Yes, Chef!
The kitchen erupted into motion.
CUT TO:
INT. PALACE CORRIDOR — NIGHT
The Queen walked beside the CHIEF MAID.
QUEEN
You have two hours. Decorate every hall, prepare the tables, and make the royal chamber perfect.
CHIEF MAID
Yes, my lady.
They parted at a junction. The Queen approached a guard.
QUEEN
Where is Hebana?
GUARD
With the King, my lady.
QUEEN
Send him to the Chief and the Priest. Tell them the prince has returned and the celebration begins in two hours. Send word to the town as well.
GUARD
Yes, my lady.
The guard hurried away.
The Queen continued with her LADY-IN-WAITING, MARTHA.
QUEEN
Tonight must be perfect. Glorious, don’t you think, Martha?
Martha smiled.
QUEEN
I have dreamed of this day for years. After all this waiting, I wondered if I would ever see him return.
She looked toward the grand entrance.
QUEEN
But he is finally home.
A faint smile crossed her face.
QUEEN
My son is finally home.
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