Ep 16. For Him The Bell Tolls

Xena: Warrior Princess season 2 episode 16, titled "For Him The Bell Tolls," focuses on Xena and her friend Gabrielle as they head to a small town where a group of bandits are causing trouble. While there, Xena meets a blacksmith named Petracles and is immediately taken with him. However, the feeling isn't mutual, as Petracles is too focused on his work to take notice of Xena's advances.

Meanwhile, the bandits continue to terrorize the town, stealing from the locals and attacking travelers on the road. Xena and Gabrielle decide to take action and stop the bandits, but find out that they are being led by none other than Petracles himself. Shocked and hurt, Xena confronts Petracles, who reveals that he has been working with the bandits in order to protect the town from a greater danger.

As Xena and Gabrielle delve deeper into the situation, they discover that a warlord named Krafstar is planning on attacking the town with his army. Petracles had joined forces with the bandits in order to gather information on Krafstar's plans and prepare a defense. Xena, recognizing that Petracles had been trying to do the right thing, forgives him and helps him and the town prepare for the impending attack.

The episode is filled with action, as Xena and Gabrielle fight both the bandits and Krafstar's army in order to protect the town and its people. It also showcases Xena's compassionate side as she tries to understand Petracles' motivations and ultimately forgives him for his actions. Overall, "For Him The Bell Tolls" is a thrilling episode that combines action, romance, and moral dilemmas, all while showcasing Xena's strength and compassion.