20. Ties That Bind

While rescuing women held by General Kirilus' army, Xena encounters an older warrior who claims to be her father, Atrius. She rejects him at first, remembering that her father abandoned the family. His help during the rescue and apparent efforts to make amends gradually weaken her resistance.

Atrius repeatedly appears to be a better man than Xena expects. He claims a disputed horse was owed to him, and the owner confirms it. When he kills an assassin who seems to be surrendering, a hidden dagger appears to justify the act. Gabrielle takes the rescued women home to Lotia, leaving father and daughter time together.

They learn that Kirilus' army is heading toward the village. Atrius insists on accompanying Xena, but the villagers recognize him as a traitor and take him prisoner. Xena promises to stop Kirilus in exchange for his life. She defeats the general and assumes command of his army.

Returning with the soldiers, she finds Atrius apparently dying after being left exposed between stakes. Furious, she orders the troops to punish the villagers. Gabrielle stands in her way and warns that she is becoming the same kind of warlord they fight.

Atrius continues urging a massacre, finally making Xena question him. He transforms into Ares: the entire reconciliation was another attempt to draw her back into commanding his army. Xena refuses, even when he threatens her, and he disappears.

Afterward she tells Gabrielle that their friendship binds her more deeply than blood alone. Gabrielle's willingness to stand against her has saved her from repeating her past.