Obsidian Stars

Chapter 1: Reunion at Dusk

EXT. FOREST SURROUNDING GARREG MACH – DUSK

The year is 1185 in mid-winter, the day before the Millenium Festival. Moments from now, on this day, a former professor of Garreg Mach will be found by a villager who happened to see him/her floating downstream coming from the ruins of the nearby monastery. This scene takes place a few miles away, in the area around the Sealed Forest where Byleth and his/her students had pursued the imposters that had infiltrated Garreg Mach.

Now, the forest is filled with revelry and cheer from a few bandits, fresh from their plunder and returning from the monastery through the snow-draped woods, walking northward. LUGO is the first to speak, a massive man with an unsightly demeanor, with a big shield and axe on his back, who is carrying the most bags of loot.

LUGO

Who would'a tought it! A secret little hidey hole under da monastery dat no one got to yet! Looked like dey had a bunch'a rooms too. Do ya tink dey kept the kiddos down dere when dey were bein' bad, boss?

The person who responds to him is SABELINA, a pink haired woman dressed in an immaculate green doublet with golden flower patterns all along it and a ruff collar. She carries a sword the size of herself. She snorts a laugh before speaking.

SABELINA

I do love the idea of that. Unfortunately, my wisdom tells a different story. The most well-respected thieves and misbegots have a connection with some in that abyss beneath the academy, a place where unwanted and forgotten in Fódlan's oh so POWERFUL and INTELLIGENT elite class are shoved off to. Place of bastards and fools who couldn't watch their back. Tell me, are you a bastard or a fool Lugo?

LUGO

HAHA, yeah, I guess I am boss. Pop pop always called me a b-word, and he tought he knew EVERYTHING.

SABELINA

Then it is with the heaviest of hearts Lugo that I must find the nearest hole and shove you into it. Fódlan custom after all.

LUGO

Wha-? I don't want to go in no holes ma'am, not unless you're tellin' me too.

SABELINA

Mmm, sharp as a marble Lugo, that's why I like you. No, no, it was a joke, there's no hole nearly big enough to fit that head of yours anyway. No need to worry though, you happen to be quite wanted here, big man. You're simply too skilled! Who else would carry all of my bags?

LUGO

No one else carries 'em like me boss!

SABELINA

Exactly dear. Exactly. Do be careful though...

SABELINA's voice goes hushed, as if she is talking about something of the utmost importance and secrecy. Her hands gesture in ways to enhance the story she is telling, her voice changing to match the eerie mood she is intentionally setting.

SABELINA

I have heard rumors about these hole people, Lugo, and you MUST be careful. These vengeful young souls wander the forest around Garreg Mach. Bishops who lost their souls to demons. Young nobles who lost their birthright. Men and women killed in the battles of the military academy. They all lived beneath in the abyss too, I'll have you know! These heartless spirits lash out against anyone they find going through their dominion. One wrong step and you'll find yourself in fog and smoke, surrounded by the sounds of their damned souls, hungry for your blood...

SABELINA lets the words hang in the air for a moment, making sure the effect is felt. A terrified Lugo swallows hard, speaking through chattered teeth, trying to put on a brave front.

LUGO

O-oh yeah? A-are dey strong enough to mm-m-mess with us b-boss?

SABELINA

Mmm, good question my dear, sweet Lugo. A smart question! Especially since we were the ones who opened that door after so many years sealed away. Do you think you could take on a spirit coming for your blood?

LUGO

I...I uh well, I-if you a-ask me I w-w-would try.

SABELINA

Correct answer!

The woman's mood shifts suddenly to a much more excited, much more happy tone.

SABELINA

Good boy, I'm glad to hear that. Don't you worry, I don't intend to fight a ghost. I would be much more interested in conversation! I'm sure these vengeful spirits have great teatime chatter. Now, speaking of, where is my next drink? If you are not ALL hungover for Milennium Festival morning, then it's hardly a proper occasion where I'm from!

SABELINA snaps a few times and one of her other lackeys presents her with a wine glass made of silver, filled with a deep red wine. She takes a sip, contentedly sighing and humming afterwards.

SABELINA

Mmmm~ My, it is true that free food and drink is the best kind. Savor it everyone! Plunder that easy usually comes with more bloodshed. Shame really, that's the best part.

LUGO stops moving, because of which, SABELINA bumps into her, spilling her wine. She huffs, letting out a shaky breath trying to control herself

SABELINA

...And yet there may still be some to come. LUGO! What is wrong with you!? There better be an excellent explanation from you as to why my beautiful battle dress is stained!

LUGO looks back to SABELINA, his face pale as a sheet. A somber expression on his face turns into worry as he's chewed out. Swallowing his concern, he points forward with a shaking hand.

LUGO

B-boss...did...d-did da hole people ever h-have b-big stone pillars n' stuff?

SABELINA squints and wears an expression of confusion and thinly contained rage. Hearing LUGO's concern is enough to pack away the anger for later and return to the demeanor that is more proper for leader of her bandits.

SABELINA

What...no Lugo that was a joke. I was joking with you again to try to work you up.

SABELINA rolls her eyes, moving to shove past LUGO.

SABELINA

I suppose I am simply too good at setting an atmosphere. Now what are you-

SABELINA then sees what LUGO was seeing: a large, flat stone platform dozens of feet wide with stone pillars jutting out of the corners. Beyond the space there is a small plateau flanked by stairs leading up to it, with four unlit beacons on the corners of a second, smaller stone platform.

SABELINA

Now...what in the world have we wandered into?

SABELINA walks forward, looking around and continuing forward, LUGO and the rest of her bandits having quieted down to near silence as they follow behind. LUGO sees the middle of the larger stone platform and lets in a loud gasp.

LUGO

B-B-BOSS, I-IT'S DA SMOKE

SABELINA turns to look back to the large stone platform and in the center, as described, a dark, black smoke begins to billow up from nothing. SABELINA moves closer, much to LUGO's chagrin.

LUGO

Boooooooss...

SABELINA

(in a hushed tone)

Quiet!

SABELINA moves closer, and after a few seconds, the smoke begins to grow thicker and begins to swirl in the air. SABELINA motions for her men to hide behind the pillars for cover as she does the same. The bandits watch as the smoke coalesces into a humanoid shape on the ground. The shape has grey skin and is wearing what looks to be a black material similar to leather. She is wearing a leotard with a cutout around the chest and navel, long gloves that go up to her bicep, thigh high boots and a stocking on her right leg. She has incredibly long orange hair that frames her body against the stone as she appears, laying on her back.

SABELINA

What the...MEN, form a perimeter! Weapons ready!

The bandits line up around the edge of the stone platform, each looking much more nervous than they did before. SABELINA approaches, looking down to see KRONYA, stirring slightly as if waking up from sleep. Her eyes widen as she notices a large black hole about five inches wide on the left side of her chest. It appears like it should be bleeding, but it doesn't, simply existing as a purplish-black hole over her heart.

SABELINA

Well, well, what do we have here?

As SABELINA spoke, KRONYA's eyes began to flutter open, only to notice SABELINA's sword pushed across her collar and chest. SABELINA moved to crouch at KRONYA's side, her knee against the prone woman's stomach.

KRONYA

What the...? Unhand me you ver-AGHhhh

KRONYA attempts to speak, but her words are cut off by a sharp pain coursing through her. The pain surprises SABELINA, who didn't inflict any wound, before she nods.

SABELINA

I wouldn't try anything, maybe you haven't noticed but you look so terribly hurt.

SABELINA's face contorts to a sadistic smile

SABELINA

So, I wouldn't try anything stupid, or else I may have some fun tonight. Now, what was that? Coming out of a puff of smoke is reserved for magicians and you don't look like the type. Although...

SABELINA looks over KRONYA's body, then to her face, including the black facial mark the style of which is normally common for circuses, then, she simply shrugs. KRONYA replies through pained breaths.

KRONYA

What are you talking about, you worm? How dare you threaten me? I...

KRONYA pauses for a beat, wincing in pain again, causing SABELINA to let out a small laugh. KRONYA seems to take a moment to weigh her options.

KRONYA

(words filled with spite)

What...do you mean by a puff of smoke?

SABELINA

Exactly like it sounds. There was nothing, and then there was smoke, and then there was you. How fun is that? Just, POOF, and there you are.

KRONYA

That's it then? You don't know a single other thing?

SABELINA

I know a great deal of things, don't you worry. But about you I am tragically low.

KRONYA

Good. Then I think we're done here!

With KRONYA getting ready to move, SABELINA crossed her shin over KRONYA's hand, pushing down harder to indicate her threat. KRONYA only smiles as SABELINA feels a sharp pain against her thigh, as the tip of one of KRONYA's sharp tendrils coming out of her backside, having been disguised by her long hair, quickly stabs the SABELINA. The moment was enough for KRONYA to work her way out with surprising energy from under SABELINA, and roll, moving to a stand. The bandits surrounding gasp and begin moving forward, before SABELINA moves to stand as well, raising a hand to stop her men from moving in or attacking.

SABELINA

(Words filled with admiration and intrigue)

Now that was tricky. What else can you do, stranger?

KRONYA

Sorry, not much in the mood for playtime right now. I have things to do.

KRONYA pulls out a blade from a space near her thigh-high boot, the weapon seemingly coming out of nowhere. She points it to SABELINA, who smiles a wide grin, her eyes showing the joy she was feeling in the moment as her gaze darts between KRONYA'S face, her three swishing tendrils behind her, and her dagger.

SABELINA

Yes, YES, more of that. If you won't do it yourself, I'll make you show me.

SABELINA charges towards KRONYA, ready to begin a battle that will get her blood rushing. KRONYA tries to move to the side, used to her speed begin an advantage, but as she moves, her leg gives out from underneath her, and she falls down, barely catching herself with her hand.

SABELINA slows down, scoffing as she comes up to KRONYA, once again on the ground.

SABELINA

Tsk, disappointing. Guess I have no choice but to get you back on your feet so you can show me properly. Happy Millenium Festival to me.

SABELINA motions towards LUGO to assist her with something, KRONYA falls unconscious once again.

SABELINA

Sorry Lugo! Seems like fighting a ghost is exactly something I'd do!

END SCENE

INT. GARREG MACH – WAR ROOM - EVENING

A few days have passed since BYLETH met with his/her former students again on the promised day. Restoration of the monastery has been going smoothly with what remains of the Church of Seiros and the students of the Golden Deer class of 5 years past. Currently, BYLETH, CLAUDE, HILDA, SETETH, and LEONIE stand along the edge of a long table with a map of the local region and another of all Fódlan.

CLAUDE

So that's where we're at Teach. Long few weeks ahead of us if we're tryin' to make a difference against Edelgard. Though, with you here, I do feel that extra bit confident that we just might get it done.

HILDA

Well yeah, obviously Claude. Even after five years I think he/she has more experience than any of us. I mean you were a mercenary since you were like, YOUNG young right?

CLAUDE

Oh, please, no way he/she was handling actual merc stuff. Unless...you, weren't handling merc stuff as a kid, right teach?

CHOICE 1:

BYLETH: I've been training ever since I was old enough to hold a sword.

(Leonie approval up!)

CLAUDE

Yeesh, Jeralt really was intense huh? Even with his own kid.

LEONIE

Captain Jeralt would always emphasize training every day and getting comfortable with using a sword or a spear. Besides, I'm sure it was only because he/she wanted to. Professor probably wasn't killing things until he/she was at least as old as we were...Probably.

HILDA

Ick, no thank you. I barely can keep my equipment clean now. Can't imagine how bad it'd be as a kid, plus all the violence and stuff probably isn't great for you. Nightmares are a big deal.

CHOICE 2:

BYLETH: They called me the Ashen Demon for a reason.

(Claude approval up!)

CLAUDE

Whew, forgot about that. Sometimes I wish they would call me something that cool. Glad you're on our side. I think I've got more than enough demons to watch out for in the Empire army. Let's not test the waters with one even STRONGER than them.

HILDA

Ugh, yeah, never liked fighting those things. They make me sad AND they look gross.

CLAUDE

Maybe we can come up with a different name for you. Besides best teacher or wielder of the Sword of the Creator. Something that rolls off the tongue.

END OF CHOICE 2 DIALOGUE

CLAUDE

Either way, glad that you're on our side and not theirs. Or, well, anyone else's. What can I say Teach, I think you've got us all attached. Now that we've got you back, you're gonna have a tough time getting rid of us.

SETETH

Perhaps it would be best if we focused on the task at hand. We have a few matters to settle and Hanneman has been insistent that we figure out a way to get his research going again so he can help our cause. I think it would be best if we began to rebuild the staff wing again, it seems that there may still be some underneath the rubble th-

The door to the room slams open. Enter ALOIS, who is huffing and sweating from running here.

ALOIS

Bandits are forming up just north of the monastery! Oh uh, excuse the interruption!

SETETH

What? More bandits? I thought we drove the last of the scoundrels off on the day of the Millenium Festival?

ALOIS

W-well whoever it is, they've got weapons and there's a lot of them! They seem to be fighting with another group!

CLAUDE

Bandit versus bandit huh? Wonder what could have caused that?

HILDA

Well makes our job pretty easy then if they're already fighting each other!

ALOIS

Well, there's erm...one more little wrinkle in this problem.

CLAUDE

(speaking with a wink)

Well, I'm sure we could iron it out, isn't that right?

ALOIS

Hah, uhh, *snort* HAHA, *ahem* This unfortunately isn't a joking matter. The knights reported that there was someone among the bandits matching the description of...

ALOIS looks to BYLETH, beginning to take a few steps, ready to respond to whatever the reaction to what he's about to say would be.

CLAUDE

Hey, whatever the issue is, I'm sure we can figure it out. Who is it?

ALOIS

(speaking as if he is forcing the words out)

The person matches the description of...Kronya.

There's a crashing sound as LEONIE slams her fist against the table. The rest around are stunned into a moment's silence, just as confused as ALOIS but more alarmed by the sudden loud noise. LEONIE clenches her fist tight. Where people were expecting an angry expression, there's instead a smile on her face.

LEONIE

Good! Hahah! That scumbag Solon stopped me from getting revenge. Now we can really finish her off properly!

CLAUDE

Woah, slow down. I'm sure Teach has a few more words of wisdom for us. Besides, he/she's the one who should really be making these decisions when it comes to her.

LEONIE takes a deep breath, then a sigh. She cracks her knuckles, looking to BYLETH

LEONIE

I guess you're right. Come on Professor, we should give her what she deserves. For Jeralt.

SETETH

Regardless of what happens, you'll need men supporting you. I'll gather the church battalions immediately. I'll meet you out front. Alois, let the rest of the stude-

SETETH pauses for a moment, shaking his head.

SETETH

Forgive me, let the rest of graduates know right away.

ALOIS salutes, bowing to SETETH.

ALOIS

Right away!

ALOIS pauses for a moment, looking at LEONIE, then to BYLETH, making eye contact to the latter and nodding to him/her.

ALOIS and SETETH leave scene

CLAUDE

Phew, glad to see we still got Seteth to watch our backs. So, what do you make of this, Teach?

CHOICE 1:

BYLETH: She's too dangerous for us to leave alone, we should pursue her right away.

(Leonie approval up!)

LEONIE

Good! It's about time I...urm, WE, get some much-needed catharsis out of all this. Unlucky for her, I happen to let out some steam with a few well-placed punches.

HILDA

I knew right away something was wrong with her when she was masquerading as Monica. Let's stop her for good, for Monica, Professor.

CLAUDE

Sounds like we're all on the same page then, lead on, Teach, we'll be right behind you when you're ready.

CLAUDE, HILDA, and LEONIE leave scene

BYLETH stands in the room alone, putting a hand to his/her chin

BYLETH

Hmm...

CHOICE 1 END SCENE

CHOICE 2:

BYLETH: But wait...why is she showing up now of all times?

HILDA

Huh? What do you...

HILDA's eyes open wide as she realizes what BYLETH means.

HILDA

Waaaait a moment, you're right!

LEONIE

Huh? What are they right about?

CLAUDE shrugs and smiles, shaking his head.

CLAUDE

Seems you figured out just what I was thinking, Teach. Forgot how hard it was to keep up with you. I think what he/she's trying to say is, if she's been around for all these years, why have we only heard of her doing something just NOW.

LEONIE

Wait...Yeah! If she's been around all this time, wouldn't we have heard of her by now?

CLAUDE

Exactly. Last time we saw her our good buddy masquerading as our librarian had his hand in her chest.

Everyone takes a moment to recall the gruesome sight. KRONYA being held up by SOLON, his hand in her chest, before she was tossed to the side and begged for her life. Then, not long after, BYLETH disappeared before cutting his/her way out of whatever void that SOLON put him/her into.

CLAUDE

If everything went according to Solon's plan, I imagine she would be quite dead.

HILDA

Buuut, everything didn't go to his plan!

CLAUDE

Exactly. If she's back now, I'm willing to bet that it's because Teach broke their way out of that creep's spell.

LEONIE

So, wait, does that mean that she's only come back because the Professor is back too?

HILDA

Woah. Didn't you say you were taking a nap Professor? Or, well, BASICALLY a nap?

BYLETH

For five years...

CLAUDE

Right. So, I think that Leonie is right. Kronya only came back when Teach did. Now she could have just been skulking around, but with the way that she was, I bet she wouldn't be able to stay away from causing someone out there trouble, and I haven't heard the tiniest peep of her.

HILDA

I haven't heard anything about Monica either, if she was using her to hide around.

CLAUDE

Meaning, either she was masquerading as someone else, or just showed up. And if she was masquerading as someone, why would we only have heard of someone matching her description now?

HILDA

I think you're right! My brother never mentioned anyone like her, so she wouldn't have gone to Almyra or anywhere if she was running away. Maybe we should check with Lorenz to see if anyone in Gloucester saw anyone.

CLAUDE

Geez, things are just getting more and more complicated, huh? Well, only one person can REALLY answer all of that for us, and that's Kronya.

LEONIE

What!? No way, like we could trust her with telling the truth about anything. We can't trust her as far as we could throw her.

CLAUDE

Well, with how you throw a javelin Leonie, maybe we could still get something out of her. Ultimately though, I think the decision still rests with Teach. Whenever you're ready, we'll head out.

The group all nod in affirmation looking to BYLETH who nods in response. BYLETH then takes the lead and begins walking out of the war room.

CHOICE 2 END SCENE