555 years before the events of RWBY.
[Scene opens in a dimly lit room, the glow of a single candle casting flickering shadows on the walls. A young woman, her voice laced with quiet intensity, begins to speak.]
Stella: (Monologing) Humans... we are such pathetic creatures. Selfish, cruel, blind to the suffering we create. We hold ourselves above all else, thinking we are the peak of existence, yet we turn on anything different, anything we don't understand. We shun it. Fear it. Destroy it.
Stella: (Monologing) Look at the Faunus. Treated like animals, like monsters—like the Grimm. But they're not. The Grimm are mindless, driven only by destruction. The Faunus? They think, they feel, they dream just like us. And yet, because they have fur, fangs, or tails, we cast them aside, call them beasts, enslave them, hunt them. Why? Because humans only love what mirrors them. Anything else is an enemy.
Stella: (Monologing) I can't see the world that way. I won't. When I look at the Faunus, I don't see a threat—I see people. People who deserve better than this hatred, this injustice. I care for them more than my own kind... because at least they don't hide behind pretty lies and call it civilization.
Stella: (Monologing) Maybe that makes me a traitor to humanity. Maybe I don't care.
She exhales, the candlelight flickering as if in agreement.
Stella: (Monologing) If choosing compassion over cruelty makes me different... then so be it.
A young Faunus girl, no older than seven, sits on the ground, her knees scraped and dirty. Her wide, tear-filled eyes stare up at the boy who pushed her, Eric, a human child with a smug grin. His friends stand behind him, snickering at his cruelty.
Eric: (smirking) You don't belong here, freak.
The Faunus girl sniffles, her small hands clenching the dirt beneath her as tears trail down her cheeks. Eric steps closer, his shadow looming over her.
Eric: (mocking) Do you know what my parents told me to do to Faunus like you?
The girl shakes her head, her ears pressed flat against her hair in fear. Eric raises his hand as if to shove her again, but before he can, another figure steps in between them.
Stella: (firmly) That's enough.
Stella, a human girl of the same age as Eric, stands her ground. Her expression is calm, but her stance is unyielding. The murmuring crowd of children quiets slightly as Eric narrows his eyes at her.
Eric: (annoyed) Move, Stella. This isn't your problem.
Stella: (steadfast) It is now. Leave her alone.
Eric scoffs, glancing back at his friends as they exchange uncertain looks.
Eric: (laughs) Why are you defending this freak? She's not one of us.
Stella: (coldly) She hasn't done anything wrong. But you have.
Eric's expression twists in frustration. His friends, sensing the shift in the air, stop cheering him on. Stella doesn't waver.
Stella: If you want to hit someone, hit me instead. I won't fight back.
The village square falls silent. Eric stares at her, confusion flickering across his face. For a moment, he looks as if he might actually strike her—but then his hands curl into fists, and he steps back with a sneer.
Eric: (disgusted) Whatever. You're just a stupid Faunus lover.
He turns sharply, motioning for his friends to follow. They hesitate, casting lingering glances at Stella before scurrying after him. The tension in the air eases as their footsteps fade into the distance.
Stella exhales before turning to the Faunus girl still sitting on the ground. She extends her hand with a gentle smile.
Stella: (softly) Are you okay?
The Faunus girl stares at her in shock, then hesitantly reaches out. Her small fingers grasp Stella's hand as she's pulled to her feet. A few remaining villagers watch from afar, their expressions unreadable. But Stella doesn't care. She offers the girl a reassuring nod.
The sun hangs low in the sky as Stella walks beside the Faunus girl, leading her away from the village and toward the outskirts, where a massive tree stands tall and ancient.
The Faunus girl, still sniffling, glances back toward the village, uncertainty flickering in her wide eyes. Stella squeezes her hand gently, offering a reassuring smile.
Stella: (softly) Don't worry. You'll be safe here.
The massive tree looms before them, its thick roots twisting into the earth like grasping fingers. Stella steps forward, brushing her hand along the bark before crouching down and pushing aside a section of tangled roots, revealing a hidden entryway at the base of the trunk.
Balla: (whispers) A secret door...?
Stella: (grinning) Something like that. Come on.
She leads Balla inside, guiding her carefully through the narrow tunnel that slopes downward beneath the tree. The air grows cooler, the earthy scent of damp soil filling the underground passage. Dim lanterns, glowing faintly with Dust-infused light, line the walls, casting flickering shadows as they walk deeper into the hidden refuge.
Soon, the tunnel opens up into a large underground chamber. Makeshift cots and hammocks are scattered around, nestled among the roots that stretch across the ceiling. The space is filled with quiet murmurs, the rustling of cloth, and the occasional crackle of a small cooking fire. Faunus of all ages are gathered here—some resting, others talking in hushed tones. A few lift their heads as Stella and Balla step inside, their eyes wary until they recognize Stella.
A boy with short, dark hair and fox-like ears perks up from where he's sitting, a warm smile spreading across his face as he approaches.
Emit: (cheerfully) Stella, you're back. I was starting to think you got caught sneaking around again.
Stella: (laughing lightly) Not this time.
Emit's gaze shifts to Balla, his expression softening as he takes in the young girl's nervous stance.
Emit: (gently) And who's this?
Balla hesitates, gripping the fabric of her tattered clothes. Stella glances at her before turning back to Emit.
Stella: She needs a place to rest. Do you think we can find her one?
Emit gives a small nod, his expression kind.
Emit: Of course. We always have room for one more.
He gestures for Balla to follow, but before she moves, she suddenly grasps Stella's hand. Stella looks down in surprise as Balla's fingers tremble slightly in hers. The Faunus girl takes a deep breath before speaking in a soft, shaky voice.
Balla: My name... is Balla.
Stella blinks, then smiles warmly, squeezing Balla's hand in return.
Stella: It's nice to meet you, Balla. I'm Stella. (pauses, then adds) Stella Luna.
Balla stares at her for a moment, as if committing the name to memory. Then, slowly, she nods. For the first time since they met, a faint smile tugs at the corners of her lips.
Emit watches the exchange with quiet amusement before gesturing again.
Emit: Come on, Balla. Let's get you settled in.
Balla finally releases Stella's hand, taking a hesitant step toward Emit. But as she follows him deeper into the underground refuge, she glances back one last time. Stella gives her a reassuring nod, silently promising that she's safe now.
The sky is painted in hues of deep orange and purple as Stella steps onto the worn wooden porch of her home. She exhales quietly, her body still tense from earlier events. But just as she reaches for the door, it swings open, revealing a broad-shouldered man standing in the doorway—her father, Rick.
Rick: (sternly) Where have you been?
Stella halts, her fingers tightening at her sides. She lifts her chin slightly, meeting her father's hard gaze.
Stella: I was out.
Rick's expression darkens. He steps forward, his presence imposing, as the door creaks behind him.
Rick: (gruffly) Out where? You're never home when you should be. You sneak off and come back late, and for what? You need to be making proper friends, Stella.
Stella's jaw tightens, her fingers curling into fists.
Stella: I have friends.
Rick: (scowling) Friends of your own kind, Stella.
The words hit like a slap, but Stella doesn't flinch. Her chest tightens, anger simmering beneath her skin. From behind them, her mother, Millie, steps into the doorway, her hands wringing against her apron as she watches the exchange anxiously.
Millie: (softly) Rick, please—
Rick: (ignoring her) You shouldn't be around those things. They're filthy. They don't belong here, and neither do you if you keep acting like this.
Something inside Stella snaps.
Stella: (sharply) They're not things! They're people! And I can be friends with whoever I want! You can't make me do anything else!
Rick's face twists with rage, but before he can respond, Stella storms past him, pushing through the doorway. She marches down the hall, her heart pounding, and slams her bedroom door shut behind her.
She locks it, her breath coming in quick, uneven bursts. A second later—
BANG. BANG. BANG.
Rick: (furious) Open this door, Stella! We're not finished talking!
She presses her back against the door, squeezing her eyes shut. Her whole body trembles, but she refuses to let the tears fall. Her hands grasp for the pillow on her bed, and she collapses onto the mattress, pressing it over her ears to block out the shouting.
Outside, Millie's voice is softer, pleading.
Millie: (gently) Rick, please, she's just a child—
Rick: (snapping) No child of mine will grow up thinking Faunus are equal to us!
The banging continues, but Stella forces herself deeper beneath the pillow, her breathing shallow, her mind racing. The voices outside become muffled, blending into the background as she curls into herself.
15 years later
Golden morning light streams through the window, illuminating the simple wooden walls of Stella's bedroom. She stirs beneath the covers, her eyes fluttering open as the warmth of the sun gently pulls her from sleep. With a deep sigh, she sits up, stretching her arms and legs. The satisfying pop of her joints echoes in the quiet room as she rolls her shoulders and swings her legs over the side of the bed.
After shaking off the last remnants of sleep, Stella crosses the room to her desk, where a small stack of books rests. She gathers them into her arms, tucking them against her chest as she glances toward the door. Moving carefully, she slips out of the house, her footsteps light against the wooden floor to avoid waking her parents.
Scene Cut: Village Bookstore
The soft chime of the door bell echoes as Stella steps inside the cozy bookstore. The scent of parchment and aged paper fills the air, mingling with the faint aroma of herbal tea. Behind the counter stands Barbra Yaga, the shop's clerk and Stella's longtime friend. She's a woman of wiry build with streaks of gray in her dark hair, her sharp eyes peering over the rim of her glasses as Stella approaches.
Barbra: (grinning) Back so soon? You barely had those books for a week.
Stella: (chuckling) What can I say? I don't sleep much.
She places the stack of books into the return basket beside the counter. Barbra hums in amusement, adjusting the position of one of the books before glancing back at Stella.
Stella: (curious) So, you excited for the Hollows Festival?
Before Barbra can answer, a sudden crash shatters the tranquility of the shop. A rock hurtles through the stained glass window, sending colorful shards cascading onto the floor. The impact echoes through the store as a sharp gust of wind follows through the new hole in the wall.
Stella's expression hardens. Without hesitation, she strides to the door and steps outside, her eyes immediately locking onto a familiar figure—Eric. He and his usual gang of troublemakers stand across the street, laughing as they watch the damage they've caused.
Eric: (mocking) Guess old Baba Yaga needs a new window!
His friends cackle, but their laughter is cut short when Eric finally notices Stella's piercing glare. Her jaw tightens, fists clenching at her sides. The tension in the air is palpable as her gaze burns into him.
Stella: (coldly) Grow up, Eric. Stop being a jackass.
For a moment, Eric seems to falter. The weight of Stella's words—and the unshaken confidence in her stance—makes him hesitate. Then, trying to save face, he motions for his friends to follow him.
Eric: (muttering) Tch. Let's go.
With that, they scatter like rats, disappearing into the winding paths of the village. Stella watches until they're out of sight before turning back into the shop.
Inside the Bookstore
Barbra kneels by the broken glass, already gathering the shards into a pile. Stella joins her without a word, carefully picking up the larger pieces and setting them aside.
Barbra: (sighing) Brats don't have anything better to do, huh?
Stella: (shaking her head) Apparently not.
As she collects another handful of glass, Stella pauses, then offers a small smile.
Stella: Balla can make a replacement piece for the window. It won't be exact, but she's good at what she does.
Barbra looks up, her expression softening at the mention of Balla.
Barbra: (grateful) Tell her I'd appreciate it.
Stella nods, standing and dusting off her hands. With one last glance at the broken window, she heads for the door.
Outside the Bookstore
As Stella walks down the street, her mind still lingers on Eric's cruelty. She doesn't notice the pair of eyes watching her from a distance. Hidden in the shadow of an alleyway, Eric stands with his arms crossed, his usual smug expression replaced with something more calculating.
As Stella turns a corner, he silently moves to follow, his footsteps quiet against the dirt road.
The dirt path beneath Stella's boots is well-worn, the familiar crunch of pebbles underfoot accompanying her steady pace. The towering trees that border the village sway gently with the breeze, their leaves rustling in a quiet symphony. She walks with ease, unaware of the shadow lingering behind her.
Eric follows from a distance, his steps careful, his breath steady. He keeps to the cover of trees and bushes, his narrowed eyes fixed on Stella. He's never been one for patience, but curiosity gnaws at him—where was she going? And why did she always disappear toward the outskirts?
Then, he sees it.
A massive tree stands alone at the edge of the forest, its roots twisting deep into the earth. Stella approaches it without hesitation, crouching down near its base. Eric squints, creeping closer just in time to see her lift a hidden hatch and slip inside, disappearing beneath the ancient bark.
His heart pounds. A secret hideout?
Carefully, he moves forward, stopping just short of the tree. He presses himself against the rough bark, listening, but hearing nothing from the outside. His fingers twitch at his sides, itching to know what's inside.
Inside the Tree Refuge
As Stella's feet touch the cool underground soil, she barely has time to steady herself before arms wrap tightly around her.
Balla: (excitedly) You're back!
Balla's embrace is warm, filled with unspoken relief. Stella chuckles, hugging her back just as tightly.
Stella: (smirking) It's only been a few days, Balla. Miss me that much?
Balla pulls back slightly, rolling her eyes but grinning. Before Stella can say anything else, another set of arms envelops her from the side.
Emit: (teasing) You know she's not the only one who misses you, right?
Stella laughs, patting Emit's back before stepping away. The underground refuge hums with quiet activity—Faunus families moving about, some cooking meals over small fires, others tending to their makeshift sleeping spaces. A sense of peace lingers here, untouched by the cruelty of the outside world.
Emit crosses his arms, tilting his head.
Emit: So, what brings you by?
Stella: (sighing) Some idiot broke Barbra's stained glass window. She needs a new piece, and I figured Balla could help.
Balla's ears perk up, already nodding before Stella even finishes her sentence.
Balla: Of course! I can craft something unique—maybe even better than before.
Stella: (smiling) She'll appreciate it.
Outside the Tree – A Short Time Later
The hatch creaks softly as Stella emerges, stretching her arms before adjusting her cloak. With a final glance at the tree, she starts down the path leading back to the village, her mind already planning her next steps.
She doesn't notice the figure lurking nearby.
Eric waits until she disappears into the distance before creeping toward the tree. His fingers trail along the bark until he stumbles upon a small, barely noticeable hole—just large enough to peek through.
What he sees makes his stomach tighten.
Faunus. Dozens of them. Some laughing, some cooking, some sleeping—living beneath the village, right under everyone's noses.
His breath hitches, realization dawning in a slow, creeping wave.
Stella wasn't just helping them—she was protecting them.
He staggers back from the tree, his pulse racing. Then, without a second thought, he turns on his heel and bolts toward the village.
The warm scent of hay and earth fills the stable as Stella moves between the stalls, gently brushing one of the horses. The rhythmic strokes of the brush and the soft huffs of the animals create a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. But that peace is shattered when the stable doors slam open.
Barbra stumbles in, breathless, her face pale with terror.
Barbra: (panting) Stella—h-he found them.
Stella's hand freezes mid-brush.
Stella: (slowly) ...What?
Barbra: Eric. He—he found the hideout. He's got the whole town gathering at the tree!
The brush slips from Stella's fingers, hitting the dirt floor with a dull thud. Her chest tightens, her heart hammering against her ribs. Without a second thought, she bolts past Barbra, who quickly turns and follows.
Scene Cut: The Outskirts – The Massive Tree
Smoke fills the sky, thick and black, choking the air with the acrid stench of burning wood. The massive tree—their sanctuary—is ablaze, its once-protective roots now consumed by roaring flames. The fire crackles, its glow casting long shadows across the gathered townsfolk, who stand watching as if it were some grand spectacle.
Stella skids to a stop, her breath caught in her throat.
Stella: (horrified) NO!
She doesn't hesitate. She runs straight into the fire, ignoring Barbra's desperate plea behind her.
Barbra: (shouting) STELLA, STOP!
The heat is unbearable, the flames licking at her skin as she pushes forward, her eyes scanning the chaos. Through the flickering inferno, a glimpse of movement—
Balla.
The young Faunus girl lies partially buried beneath burning debris, her body curled in pain, her breaths shallow.
Stella lunges forward, ignoring the searing pain in her hands as she lifts the debris away. She gathers Balla into her arms and stumbles out of the inferno, coughing violently as she emerges into the open air.
The villagers fall silent as Stella collapses to her knees, cradling Balla's trembling form. The girl whimpers softly, her tiny fingers clutching weakly at Stella's cloak.
Stella: (desperate) Somebody help! Please!
The villagers do nothing. They stand, unmoving, cold eyes watching with indifference. Only Barbra struggles against the hands that hold her back.
Barbra: (furious) You monsters! You heartless beasts!
Before she can say another word, Eric steps forward, gripping a rusted crop sickle in his hands. His face twists in anger, his knuckles white as he swings.
The blade slices across Barbra's throat.
The world slows.
Barbra stumbles, her hands flying to her neck as crimson spills between her fingers. A strangled gasp escapes her lips before she collapses to the ground.
Stella: (screaming) BARBRA!
Stella crawls to her friend, pressing her hands against the wound in a desperate attempt to stop the bleeding. But there's too much. Too much blood.
Eric steps back, dropping the sickle as he holds up his hands in mock innocence.
Eric: (frantic) She—she tried to attack me! I was just defending myself!
Murmurs spread through the crowd. Heads nod. They believe him. They agree with him.
Stella stares, disbelief shaking her to her core. Her vision blurs, and then—
A spray of blood splashes onto her lips.
A sudden jolt. A flood of images—memories—Barbra's memories—rush through her mind.
—Barbra as a child, hiding in a library, reading by candlelight.
—Barbra watching the townspeople whisper about her, calling her a witch.
—Barbra taking in a young Stella, teaching her, protecting her.
—Barbra's fear, her defiance, her last thoughts before the blade struck.
Then—silence.
Stella's eyes snap open.
Barbra is still. Lifeless. Her blood staining Stella's hands.
Something inside Stella snaps. The grief, the rage, the unbearable agony—it all crashes down at once.
Stella: (whispering) ...Murderers...
The crowd shifts uneasily as Stella slowly rises, her hands clenched into fists, dripping with the blood of the only person who ever truly cared for her.
Stella: (louder) You're all monsters. Every last one of you.
Her trembling fingers reach for the sickle on the ground, gripping the bloodied handle. She lifts her head, and as she does—
Her eyes gleam a deep, unnatural red.
A bloodcurdling battle cry rips from her throat, echoing through the night—
—and the scene fades to black.
The village lies in ruins, reduced to a smoldering graveyard of charred wood and shattered stone. Bodies litter the streets, blood pooling in the dirt beneath the eerie glow of the shattered moon. Fires crackle in the distance, their dying embers casting twisted shadows across the wreckage. The only sound beyond the whispering wind is the soft, ragged breathing of a lone survivor—
Eric.
He cowers against a crumbling wall, his face pale, his body trembling. His once-proud sneer is gone, replaced by sheer, unfiltered terror. His wide, tear-filled eyes lock onto the approaching figure.
Stella.
She walks toward him with slow, deliberate steps, her boots crushing glass and bone alike beneath them. Her once-pristine clothes are soaked in blood—some hers, but most of it theirs. The rusted crop sickle hangs loosely from her fingers, its crimson-stained blade glinting in the dim light.
Eric's breath comes in short, panicked gasps.
Eric: (whimpering) P-please... Stella... I—I didn't mean for this...! I was just—please don't kill me!
Stella stops only a few feet away from him. The sickle dangles at her side, then—
She lets it fall.
The blade clatters against the bloodied ground, and for a moment, silence stretches between them.
Eric stares, his mind struggling to process her mercy. He swallows hard, his hands still raised in surrender.
Then, Stella turns her back to him.
Stella: (quietly) I won't kill you.
Eric lets out a shaky exhale, his lips quivering as relief washes over him. But before he can speak, Stella takes a few steps away, her voice calm, distant.
Stella: (coldly) ...They will do it instead.
Eric's breath catches in his throat. A low, guttural growl rumbles behind him. His body goes rigid as he slowly turns his head—
Glowing red eyes pierce the darkness.
A Beowolf Grimm emerges from the shadows, its massive, clawed form illuminated by the flickering flames. Saliva drips from its snarling maw, its gaze locked onto him like a predator savoring its prey.
Eric: (panicked) N-no—no, no, NO!
He scrambles to his feet, his hands frantically reaching for something—anything—to defend himself. But there's nothing. Only dust, only death.
The Beowolf lunges.
A bloodcurdling scream shatters the night as the beast crashes into him, claws tearing into flesh, teeth sinking deep into his throat. Eric's cries of agony are drowned out by the sickening crunch of bone and the wet, tearing sounds of the creature feasting.
Stella doesn't look back.
As she walks through the remnants of her village, blood still dripping from her fingertips, more growls echo through the darkness. Shapes move in the distance—Grimm, drawn to the slaughter, drawn to her. They rush past her, their black forms a tide of death surging toward the remnants of the village. Toward whatever—whoever—was left.
Stella doesn't flinch. She doesn't run. She simply walks, disappearing into the night as the Grimm consume what remains of her past.
The rhythmic crashing of waves fills the air, their salty spray carried on the gentle morning breeze. Stella lies motionless on the damp sand, her bloodstained clothes clinging to her body, her fingers half-buried in the fine grains. The weight of exhaustion drags her down, her limbs heavy, her mind clouded with the echoes of her rampage.
She doesn't know how far she's walked. She only knows that she can't walk any further.
Her vision blurs, the sky above melting into the sea as darkness claims her once again.
Scene: Aboard a Ship – Unknown Time
A dim, swaying light flickers above. The gentle rocking of the room around her feels unfamiliar yet oddly soothing. A sharp inhale fills her lungs with air that smells of salt and aged wood. Her eyes snap open.
She isn't on the beach anymore.
Her body tenses as she pushes herself upright, her breaths quick and shallow. The bed beneath her is firm but warm, the fabric coarse. She isn't alone.
A figure sits nearby, watching her intently.
A man—no, a Faunus. His skin is marked with shimmering scales that catch the candlelight, trailing along his cheekbones and disappearing beneath the collar of his tunic. His golden eyes study her, calm but alert, his webbed fingers resting on his lap.
Scaled Faunus: (gently) You're awake. That's good.
Stella's body remains rigid, her mind screaming at her to be on guard.
Stella: (hoarse) Where am I?
Scaled Faunus: You're safe. No one will hurt you here.
His voice is calm, unwavering, as if he already knows what she's been through. Stella swallows hard, her muscles still taut with unease.
Stella: (quietly) ...Why?
The Faunus tilts his head slightly, as if considering her question.
Scaled Faunus: Because she told us to.
He gestures towards the door. Stella follows his movement but sees no one else. Confusion flickers in her tired eyes.
Stella: (slowly) Who?
Scaled Faunus: Our princess. She found you on the shore and brought you aboard.
Stella blinks, the weight of his words pressing into her. A princess? A Faunus royal?
She exhales sharply, her mind too clouded to process anything more. With a quiet nod, she sinks back into the bed, her gaze fixed on the wooden ceiling above. The swaying of the ship lulls her, the exhaustion returning with a vengeance.
For now, she doesn't ask any more questions.
For now, she just breathes.
The gentle creaking of the ship's wooden frame fills the dimly lit cabin. The scent of salt lingers in the air, mingling with the faint aroma of dried herbs from the medical supplies stacked in the corner. Stella sits on the edge of the bed, her hands clasped together, staring at the floor. The steady rhythm of the waves beneath her feet is oddly soothing, yet her mind remains restless.
A soft knock on the door pulls her from her thoughts.
?: (warmly) May I come in?
Stella looks up as the door opens, revealing a tall Faunus woman. Her black hair cascades over her shoulders in loose waves, and atop her head, two cat ears gleam under the lantern light. Her golden eyes, much like the scaled Faunus from before, hold a quiet wisdom and patience.
There is an air of regality about her, though her expression is kind rather than imposing.
Faunus Woman: My name is Katchia. Princess of Drakvania.
Princess.
Stella stiffens slightly before rising to her feet. Despite the exhaustion weighing on her limbs, she meets Katchia's gaze with cautious respect.
Stella: (softly) ...Stella Luna.
Katchia offers a small smile and steps further inside, closing the door behind her.
Katchia: It's good to finally speak with you. You've been resting for some time. How are you feeling?
Stella hesitates. How does she feel? Numb? Tired? Lost? She settles for the simplest answer.
Stella: Better... thanks to you.
Katchia nods, satisfied with the answer. She takes a seat on a nearby stool, watching Stella closely.
Katchia: I'm glad we found you when we did. But... I have to ask. (gently) Why were you lying on the beach... covered in blood?
The question hangs in the air like a storm cloud. Stella's body tenses as her fingers dig into the fabric of her pants. Her mind flashes with images—flames consuming her home, Eric's screams, Barbra's lifeless body in her arms.
She opens her mouth to speak, but no words come out.
Katchia waits, her expression unreadable. Seconds stretch into an eternity before she finally sighs and leans back slightly.
Katchia: (softly) You don't have to tell me. Not yet.
Stella exhales slowly, her shoulders sagging with relief.
Katchia: But when you're ready... (gentle smile) I will be ready to listen.
The kindness in her voice stirs something unfamiliar in Stella. After everything—after the cruelty of her village, the hatred, the bloodshed—this warmth feels foreign.
She doesn't know if she'll ever be ready to speak about what happened.
But for now, she nods.
Stella: ...Thank you.
Katchia offers one last reassuring smile before rising to her feet.
Katchia: We'll be docking soon. You should come see it for yourself.
With that, she turns and exits, leaving Stella alone once more.
Stella stares at the closed door for a long moment before looking out the small round window. The sky is brighter now, and in the distance, through the morning mist, the shadowed outline of an island begins to take shape.
Drakvania.
A new place. A new beginning.
...But the past still lingers.
The ship gently rocks as it pulls into the harbor, the sound of waves lapping against the wooden hull filling the crisp morning air. Stella steps out of her cabin, blinking against the sunlight as she takes in the bustling activity before her. Crew members move swiftly across the deck, hauling crates of supplies, securing ropes, and shouting instructions to one another. The salty breeze carries the scent of the sea, mixing with the earthy aroma of damp wood and fish from the nearby docks.
She watches as a Faunus crew member, struggling under the weight of a large crate, nearly loses his grip. Before the crate can slip from his grasp, Stella instinctively steps forward, steadying it with both hands.
Stella: (firmly) Got it?
The Faunus blinks in surprise before offering her a grateful smile.
Faunus Crew Member: (relieved) Yeah—thank you. That would've been bad.
With Stella's help, they carefully carry the crate down the ramp and onto the dock, setting it down among the rest of the cargo. The Faunus lets out a breath before turning to her, extending a hand.
Faunus Crew Member: Dimetru. And you are?
Stella hesitates briefly before shaking his hand, feeling the callouses of a man used to hard work.
Stella: Stella.
Katchia: Well, Stella, looks like you've already proven yourself useful.
Before Stella can respond, a familiar voice chimes in.
Katchia: (amused) It seems she has. Making friends already, I see.
Stella and Dimetru turn to see Princess Katchia stepping off the ship, her presence commanding yet warm. Her violet hair catches in the breeze, and her golden eyes flick between the two of them with quiet approval.
Dimetru straightens slightly before giving the princess a respectful nod.
Dimetru: (grinning) Just grateful for the extra hands, Your Highness.
Katchia smiles before shifting her attention fully to Stella.
Katchia: (gently) Now that we're here, I'd like to extend an invitation to my home—Castle Dracul.
Stella glances toward the horizon. Beyond the docks, past the cobbled streets of what appears to be a lively settlement, rises a dark, towering structure nestled against the mountainous cliffs. Its gothic spires pierce the sky, a grand yet ominous silhouette against the backdrop of the island's rugged beauty.
Castle Dracul.
She doesn't know what awaits her there, but as she looks back at Katchia—at the kindness in her golden eyes—she nods.
Stella: (quietly) Lead the way.
Katchia's smile widens as she gestures for Stella to follow. With one last nod to Dimetru, Stella steps forward, leaving behind the familiar scent of the sea and stepping toward the unknown.
The grand silhouette of Castle Dracul looms in the distance as the carriage rolls up the winding stone path leading to the entrance. Stella leans slightly out the window, her eyes widening as she takes in the sheer scale of the structure.
It isn't just a manor or an estate—it's a literal castle. Towering black spires stretch toward the sky, intricate stained glass windows glint under the overcast light, and the stonework is ancient yet well-maintained. The entire structure is nestled against the cliffs, overlooking the sea like a silent guardian of the island.
Stella: (awed, muttering) This is... a castle.
Katchia chuckles beside her, amused by Stella's disbelief.
Katchia: (lightheartedly) Did you expect anything less?
The carriage comes to a halt at the base of the grand staircase. The heavy doors of the castle stand tall, flanked by torches that flicker despite the daylight. As Stella steps out onto the stone path, she notices a small figure standing at the top of the stairs, accompanied by a few elegantly dressed Faunus women.
A baby boy Faunus—no older than two—waits eagerly, his small hands gripping the fabric of one of the women's skirts. His dark hair is tousled, and his large golden eyes gleam with excitement.
Katchia's entire demeanor softens as she steps forward.
Katchia: (warmly) Ingeris.
The baby boy—her son—immediately reaches his arms out toward her with a delighted giggle. One of the handmaidens gently lifts him, allowing Katchia to take him into her embrace. She holds him close, her expression full of love as she presses a gentle kiss to his forehead.
Turning back to Stella, she gestures toward the handmaidens, who bow their heads respectfully.
Katchia: (gracefully) Stella, this is my son, Ingeris. And these are my handmaidens—they help care for him and assist me in my duties.
Stella watches as Katchia interacts with the child, momentarily stunned. A princess, a mother, a leader... yet she carries herself with such ease, such warmth. The contrast between her and the nobles Stella had known in her past was striking.
Katchia then turns to the handmaidens.
Katchia: Stella will need some fresh clothes and a place to stay. Please see that it's arranged.
Stella immediately shakes her head, stepping forward slightly.
Stella: (protesting) You don't have to do that—I don't want to take up space or—
Katchia: (firmly, but kindly) You will not be a burden here.
Stella hesitates, but the sincerity in Katchia's voice leaves no room for argument. One of the handmaidens nods and gracefully departs to search for clothing, while Katchia shifts Ingeris to one arm and gestures for Stella to follow her inside.
Katchia: Come. I'll show you where you'll be staying.
Scene: Katchia's Chambers
The grand halls of Castle Dracul are lined with elegant tapestries and chandeliers that cast a soft glow upon the stone walls. The air is cool, carrying the faint scent of incense and aged parchment. Stella follows Katchia through the winding corridors until they reach a massive chamber—Katchia's personal quarters.
Unlike the cold, imposing halls, this room feels lived in. A grand canopy bed rests against the far wall, draped in deep violet fabrics. A fireplace crackles with warmth, and bookshelves line the walls, filled with countless tomes. A crib sits near the bed—Ingeris's resting place.
Katchia walks over to a spare bed positioned near the window and gestures toward it.
Katchia: You'll stay here for now. I'd rather keep you close until you're settled.
Stella looks at the bed, then at Katchia. The generosity she's been shown so far feels almost unreal. After so much loss... so much violence... why was she still being welcomed?
She swallows hard before nodding, stepping toward the bed and brushing her fingertips over the fabric. It's soft. Warm. A stark contrast to the cold ground she had slept on only days ago.
Stella: (quietly) ...Thank you.
Katchia watches her for a moment before offering a small smile.
Katchia: Rest. You've been through enough.
As Stella sits on the edge of the bed, letting herself breathe for what feels like the first time in days, Katchia turns her attention back to Ingeris, gently rocking him as he babbles happily.
For the first time in what feels like forever... Stella is somewhere safe.
Montage Sequence: Stella's New Life in Drakvania
The sound of waves crashing against the cliffs fades as the music swells—a mixture of discovery, healing, and a newfound sense of belonging taking root in Stella's heart.
Scene: Exploring Castle Dracul
Stella walks through the grand halls of Castle Dracul, her fingertips brushing along the cold stone walls. She admires the intricate carvings and ancient tapestries, each telling a story of Drakvania's past. She cautiously peeks into the grand library, eyes widening at the countless books lining the shelves. Later, she climbs a spiraling tower, stepping onto a balcony that overlooks the sea, the salty breeze ruffling her hair as she takes in the breathtaking view.
Scene: Playing with Ingeris
In a warmly lit chamber, Stella kneels on the floor, holding a small wooden toy in front of Ingeris. The baby Faunus giggles as he reaches for it, his tiny hands grabbing onto Stella's fingers instead. Katchia watches from a nearby chair, amusement flickering in her golden eyes. In another moment, Stella lifts Ingeris into the air, spinning him gently as he squeals with laughter. She smiles—genuinely, freely—as if, just for a moment, the darkness of her past doesn't exist.
Scene: Voyages on the Sea
Stella stands on the deck of the ship, wind whipping through her hair as the vessel cuts through the waves. She grips the railing, exhilaration lighting up her face. Later, she assists the crew, learning how to tie knots and secure sails. Dimetru pats her on the shoulder after she successfully helps hoist a crate onto the ship. At night, beneath a canopy of stars, she listens to the sailors tell tales of the sea, their voices carried by the gentle rocking of the ship.
Scene: Discovering Silverlight Dust
In a dimly lit cavern, Stella crouches next to Katchia and a group of Drakvanian scholars. A faint glow pulses from the crystalline formations embedded in the walls—Silverlight Dust. Unlike any Dust she has seen before, its shimmering silver hue flickers like moonlight reflecting on water. She watches in awe as a scholar demonstrates its use, channeling its energy to create a soft, radiant burst of light. Stella reaches out, her fingers hovering just above the Dust, curiosity and wonder gleaming in her blood-red eyes.
Final Scene: Acceptance
Back in Castle Dracul, Stella stands before a mirror, gazing at her reflection. Her posture is different now—stronger, more assured. The haunted look in her eyes has softened, replaced by something else—purpose. She exhales slowly, then turns away from the mirror, stepping toward the door with quiet determination. She may not know what the future holds, but for the first time in a long time... she isn't running from it.
The castle is silent, save for the distant crashing of waves against the cliffs below. Moonlight spills through the open balcony doors, casting long, silver streaks across the cold stone floor. Stella jolts upright in bed, breath ragged, skin damp with sweat. Her hands tremble as she clutches her chest, the remnants of a nightmare clawing at the edges of her mind.
Without a word, she slips out of bed and steps onto the balcony, her gaze lifting to the vast expanse of stars above. The night air is crisp, biting against her skin, but she doesn't care. She focuses on the constellations, searching for comfort in their distant glow. She barely notices the soft creak of the door behind her.
Katchia steps out onto the balcony, moving with quiet grace so as not to startle her. She watches Stella for a moment before speaking, her voice gentle, laced with concern.
Katchia: You can't sleep, can you?
Stella flinches slightly but doesn't turn around.
Stella: I'm fine.
Katchia sighs, unconvinced. She moves closer, her presence warm despite the night's chill.
Katchia: Stella, please. You don't have to pretend with me.
Stella's fingers tighten around the railing. Her body tenses, as if trying to hold something in. Katchia, relentless in her kindness, reaches out and gently takes Stella's hands in her own.
Katchia: Whatever it is... let me help you.
At the touch, something inside Stella snaps. A memory—red, blood-soaked, filled with screams—flashes through her mind. She yanks her hands away, stepping back in fear. Her chest rises and falls rapidly as panic takes hold.
Katchia watches as Stella crumbles, falling to her knees on the balcony floor. Her shoulders shake violently, muffled sobs breaking through her defenses. Katchia kneels beside her, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
Katchia: Stella... look at me.
It takes a moment, but Stella finally lifts her gaze—eyes glassy, filled with so much pain. Katchia searches them, searching for the weight that has been crushing her since the moment she was found on that beach.
Katchia: Tell me what you're afraid of.
And so, Stella does. Her voice is barely above a whisper at first, recounting everything—the way she always cared for the Faunus, the home she built for them, the betrayal, the loss, the fire. The rage. The blood. She speaks of the massacre, of how she slaughtered her village, leaving only her mother alive with a single command—to run.
When she finishes, her body sags, as if the weight of her confession had drained all the strength from her.
Stella: I'm a monster, Katchia... I destroy everything I touch.
Katchia doesn't flinch. She doesn't pull away. Instead, she lifts her hands and gently cups Stella's face, tilting it upward until their eyes meet.
Katchia: You are not a monster.
Before Stella can protest, Katchia leans in and presses a soft, lingering kiss against her lips. It's warm, steady—an anchor in the storm raging inside her. When she pulls away, she brushes a stray tear from Stella's cheek.
Katchia: You've spent weeks in Drakvania, helping my people, caring for my son, proving time and time again that your heart is full of kindness. Whatever happened in the past, it does not define who you are.
Stella searches Katchia's eyes, looking for doubt—for hesitation. But there is none. Only warmth, only certainty. Her lips part, but no words come out. Instead, Katchia leans in again, and this time, Stella meets her halfway, accepting the kiss without fear, without guilt. For the first time in a long time... she allows herself to be held, to be seen. Not as a monster. Not as a murderer. But as someone who still has a chance to be something more.
The waves crash below. The stars shine above. And for this moment, in Katchia's embrace, Stella allows herself to believe that maybe... just maybe... she can heal.
(A/N: Because I had fun making this intro prologue for one of the main antagonists of my RWBY OC Story, this is only the beginning. I will make a full story of how Stella became Valeria Dracul, the First True Vampire of Remnant.)