Flight down the mountainside

EXT. MOUNTAIN PATH - DAY

The scene opens with the majestic yet perilous landscape of Middle Earth. Jagged rocks and steep cliffs surround the narrow path where CAYLA, a female elven mage with an aura of ethereal beauty, and OLMEC, a rugged human bard, are arguing. They glance nervously towards the peak, anticipating the return of BALE, a fearsome dragon.

CAYLA (angrily) We must use the enchanted glider. It's our only chance to descend safely before Bale returns.

OLMEC (firmly) And risk being spotted mid-air? No, we should climb down the western face. It's hidden and—

A rustling in the bushes cuts Olmec off. They turn to see a CRAFTY BADGER caught in a poacher's trap, struggling to free itself.

CRAFTY BADGER (pleading) Please, help me! I promise to reveal the secret to a great treasure if you do.

Cayla and Olmec exchange skeptical glances.

CAYLA (skeptical) A great treasure? From a badger? What treasure could you possibly have?

OLMEC (sighing) We've no time for this. The dragon—

Suddenly, a massive shadow sweeps over them. Bale's presence is imminent. Cayla's eyes widen in fear before she collapses into a deep sleep.

OLMEC (panicked) Cayla! Wake up!

He shakes her, but she's unresponsive. Olmec starts feeling the same sleep spell overcoming him.

OLMEC (desperate, to Badger) Get us to safety, right now, and I'll free you!

The Badger's eyes glint with fear, but he nods eagerly.

CRAFTY BADGER (hurriedly) My abode is not far. Hurry!

Olmec rushes to the trap, prying it open with trembling hands. The Badger looks at him with a sudden, cruel smile, drawing a small blade from its sheath as Olmec's vision blurs.

OLMEC (drowsily) What... are you...

The screen fades as Olmec's eyes close, the last thing he sees is the Badger's sinister grin. Everything goes black.

FADE OUT.

EXT. MOUNTAIN PATH - DAY - CONTINUOUS

As the screen fades back in, the camera pans over the now-empty path. The shadow of Bale passes overhead again, casting an ominous pall over the scene.

FADE TO BLACK.

INT. CAVE - NIGHT

The scene opens with a flickering fire illuminating the dark, damp cave. CAYLA, an elven mage, wakes up with a start. Her arms and legs are bound. She struggles against the ropes, but it's futile.

CAYLA (whispering) Olmec? Olmec, where are you?

Only the crackle of the fire responds. Cayla notices a trail of blood on the cave floor. Her eyes follow it to the edge of the firelight, where she sees a familiar shaggy mane. Her heart sinks, thinking the worst.

CAYLA (struggling harder) No... Olmec... no...

The ropes cut into her skin as she cries softly. Suddenly, bootsteps echo through the cave. A haggard soldier enters, his face worn and tired. He greets her with a coarse laugh.

SOLDIER (roughly) Well, look who's awake. Thought you'd sleep through the night.

Cayla spits at him, cursing and struggling against her bonds.

CAYLA (fierce) Unbind me, you coward! I'll avenge my companion's death!

The soldier looks confused.

SOLDIER (confused) Your companion? Didn't know elves had such fondness for badgers. But what do I know? I'm just a soldier.

Cayla's anger turns to confusion as OLMEC walks in, a bandage over his forehead. He looks tired but alive.

OLMEC (softly) Feeling better? Are you hungry?

Cayla's fury reignites.

CAYLA (furious) What witchcraft is this? What have you done with Olmec? Unbind me now!

The soldier moves to comply, but Olmec stops him with a cautious hand.

OLMEC (calmly) Wait. Her powers can be unpredictable when she's aroused. We don't want to be buried in this cave.

Cayla's anger starts to turn to fear.

CAYLA (demanding) What is going on? Explain!

Olmec kneels beside her, offering to remove her bonds.

OLMEC (sympathetically) I'll untie you if you calm down. Olmec is not dead. The only thing dead is that crafty badger.

CAYLA (shouting) Olmec is dead! You killed him and took his likeness!

OLMEC (sighing) The badger was about to kill me when a troop of Imperial guards saved us. They captured it, but it struggled so fiercely they had to slay it. It’s over there in the corner.

Cayla looks over and sees the dead badger. She realizes her mistake and huffs.

CAYLA (quietly) Shut up and release me so we can get out of here.

OLMEC (firmly) I will, but only if you promise to hold your temper. Remember what happened last time.

CAYLA (protesting) That wasn’t my fault! And that filthy thief deserved it.

OLMEC (raising an eyebrow) See? You're not ready. Perhaps I’ll come back in an hour.

CAYLA (angrily) If you don’t cut these bonds right now, I will cut short your—

She catches herself, noticing his amused gaze. She exhales sharply and agrees.

CAYLA (defeated) Fine. I’ll be calm and good.

Olmec nods and unties her. He speaks as he works.

OLMEC (calmly) The soldiers’ assistance comes at a cost. I promised to help them with the dragon.

CAYLA (seething) We barely escaped from that beast and now you want to go back?

OLMEC (resolutely) We have no choice. They saved our lives and they have a way to defeat the dragon’s sleep magic.

CAYLA (shaking her head) This is a bad idea.

OLMEC (firmly) I gave them my word. You may go, but I will face the beast with them.

CAYLA (exasperated) I hate your stubborn masculine pride. It will be your undoing.

Olmec just looks at her, calm and unyielding. She relents, knowing she cannot change his mind.

CAYLA (reluctantly) Fine. We shall go with them. But if Bale doesn't kill you, I will.

Olmec smiles, his charm shining through.

OLMEC (amused) Fair enough.

FADE OUT.

INT. CAVE - NIGHT

The scene opens with a close-up of the cave's interior, where the firelight flickers, casting long shadows on the walls. Three SOLDIERS stand at a distance from the sleeping forms of CAYLA and OLMEC, their voices hushed but their expressions determined.

SOLDIER 1 (whispering) Once the dragon is slain, we need to take care of those two. The hoard is too valuable to share.

SOLDIER 2 (nodding) Agreed. But how do we handle them? The elf is unpredictable, and an elven mage at that. Female mages are known to be even more volatile.

SOLDIER 3 (concerned) Especially this one. We need a plan to neutralize her quickly before she can use her magic against us.

SOLDIER 1 (thoughtfully) We should strike when they're at their weakest. After the battle with the dragon, they’ll be exhausted.

SOLDIER 2 (skeptical) Easier said than done. What if she senses our intentions? Elves have heightened senses and she’ll be on guard after facing the dragon.

SOLDIER 3 (nervously) And what about the bard? He may not have magic, but he’s clever. He could be more of a problem than we think.

SOLDIER 1 (determined) We’ll have to separate them. One of us distracts the bard while the other two deal with the elf. A quick, clean strike. No room for hesitation.

SOLDIER 2 (doubtful) And if she fights back?

SOLDIER 1 (resolutely) Then we overpower her. Use the enchanted shackles we took from the witch hunter’s cache. They should suppress her magic long enough for us to finish the job.

SOLDIER 3 (uneasily) What about the dragon's hoard? It’s said to be guarded by more than just Bale. Curses, traps...

SOLDIER 2 We shouldn't have killed the badger.

SOLDIER 3 (sharply) He bit me!

SOLDIER 2 (shrugs) You did threaten to kill his family and take his treasure.

SOLDIER 1 (confidently) Enough. We’ll worry about curses and traps once we’ve dealt with these two. For now, we focus on the task at hand. Remember, silence and precision. No mistakes.

The soldiers nod in agreement, their faces set with grim determination. The camera pans out to show Cayla and Olmec sleeping peacefully, unaware of the impending betrayal.

FADE TO BLACK.

INT. DRAGON'S LAIR - NIGHT

The scene opens with the group cautiously making their way through the winding, dimly lit tunnels of the dragon's lair. The air is thick with the smell of sulfur and decay. The soldiers, CAYLA, and OLMEC move quietly, their senses on high alert.

SOLDIER 1 (whispering) We need to be strategic. Cayla, what sort of magical attacks can you provide against Bale?

CAYLA (softly) I can summon elemental forces—fire, ice, lightning. But each spell drains my energy. I’ll need at least a few minutes to recover between each major enchantment.

SOLDIER 2 (nodding) Understood. We’ll need to cover you during those moments. Olmec, take this sword. It’s enchanted, might come in handy.

Olmec shakes his head, gesturing to his bow.

OLMEC (firmly) I’ll stick with my bow, thanks. It’s served me well so far.

SOLDIER 3 (smiling) You’re providing a great service to the Empire. The king will hear of your bravery.

OLMEC (grimly) I’ve no love for the king. I’m only repaying my debt to you for saving our lives.

The group continues deeper into the lair, finding scattered remains of the dragon's previous victims—bones and charred armor strewn about. They exchange uneasy glances.

CAYLA (murmuring) So much death...

They turn a corner and come upon the dragon’s hoard, a mountain of glittering treasure. Gold coins, jewels, and ancient artifacts pile high, casting a mesmerizing glow.

SOLDIER 1 (in awe) We’ve found it...

One of the soldiers, overwhelmed by greed and fear, panics. He draws his sword and lunges at Cayla and Olmec.

SOLDIER 2 (shouting) What are you doing, you idiot?! Not now!

Before the traitorous soldier can strike, a deafening roar echoes through the cavern. The ground trembles as BALE, the dragon, emerges from the shadows, his eyes burning with fury.

BALE (booming) Intruders! You dare enter my domain?

The soldiers freeze in terror, realizing they’ve awakened the beast. Bale’s immense form looms over them, his scales glinting in the firelight.

OLMEC (desperate) Cayla, now’s the time for those spells!

Cayla begins to chant, her hands glowing with magical energy. The traitorous soldier, in his panic, is incinerated by a blast of dragon fire before he can react. The remaining soldiers rally, trying to defend themselves against the onslaught.

SOLDIER 1 (yelling) Hold the line! Protect the mage!

Bale rears back, preparing another fiery attack. Cayla unleashes a bolt of lightning that strikes the dragon, momentarily stunning him. Olmec takes aim with his bow, loosing arrows at Bale’s vulnerable spots.

OLMEC (shouting) We need to find a way to weaken him further!

The battle rages on, the odds stacked against them as Bale’s fury intensifies. The soldiers fight valiantly, but the dragon’s might seems insurmountable.

FADE TO BLACK.

INT. DRAGON'S LAIR - NIGHT

The battle rages on, the clanging of weapons and the crackling of magic echoing through the cavern. OLMEC draws his bow, focusing intently. His arrow flies true, striking BALE in a vulnerable spot. The dragon lets out a deafening howl of pain and fury, then vanishes like a silent hurricane, leaving them in stunned silence.

SOLDIER 2 (panicking) Where did it go? What’s it doing?

The fear and panic rise, but then they hear the dragon's low, ominous voice.

BALE (from the shadows) You have bested me, bard. Take what you will and go.

The soldiers, eyes wide with greed, move to collect the treasure.

CAYLA (urgently) Wait! It could be a trap!

BALE (mocking) No trap. A dragon does not lie. Not like you pathetic humans.

The dragon’s voice continues, dripping with cunning.

BALE The soldiers planned to betray and kill you, mage, and take my treasure for themselves.

The soldiers immediately begin to defend themselves.

SOLDIER 1 (defensively) He's lying! It's a trick!

CAYLA (skeptical) Then why did your compatriot attack me when we came upon the horde?

The dragon senses their growing fear and uncertainty, pushing them further.

BALE (encouraging) Yes, argue, humans. Distrust each other. Fight, and finish yourselves off. Look! The bard is moving to kill you!

The soldiers, driven by fear and anger and the dragon's words, move to attack Olmec. Suddenly, Cayla releases a calamitous burst of magical energy, shaking the very roots of the stone cavern. Rocks crumble, and dust fills the air.

CAYLA (shouting) Enough!

Everyone freezes in shock and newfound fear. The soldiers and Olmec all take a few steps away from her.

BALE (with rare awe) You are a daughter of the Wind Wakers, thought all lost an age ago when the Dark Lord wiped out that line from the land. Your unguarded display reach his thoughts and arouse his ire. He will seek you and not rest until he has finished you off. I offer you protection if you turn over these three.

Cayla stands still, knowing the dragon speaks the truth but unsure what to do. The soldiers plead for their lives suddenly not sure who they fear most.

SOLDIER 3 (pleading) Please, don’t listen to it! We were just scared!

Olmec glares at Cayla, trying to convince her to see reason.

OLMEC (urgently) Cayla, don’t trust the dragon. We can’t—

CAYLA Olmec,  I'm not going to hurt you.

OLMEC (looking away) I know, it's just—

Cayla cuts him off, her voice calm and resigned.

CAYLA (sorrowfully) It's just that we always knew this day would come.

She begins to move toward the dragon's voice when Olmec's voice cracks with desperation.

OLMEC (pleading) Cayla, wait! Stop!

She turns to look at him.

CAYLA Olmec?

OLMEC (haltingly) I love you. I’ve always loved you. Don’t leave me.

Cayla stops, tears welling in her eyes. She turns back to Olmec, her face a mix of anguish and resolve.

CAYLA (softly) Olmec...

The dragon’s voice rumbles through the cavern, its tone both soothing and threatening.

BALE (tempting) Choose wisely, elven mage. Protect yourself and the one who loves you, or risk everything for these treacherous vermin. The Dark Lord won't give you on offer such as mine.

Cayla stands torn between her loyalty to Olmec and the truth of the dragon’s offer. The cavern is silent, every breath held in anticipation of her decision.

FADE TO BLACK.

INT. DRAGON'S LAIR - NIGHT

The scene opens with the cavern in tense silence. CAYLA stands between the soldiers and OLMEC, her expression torn. The dragon, BALE, remains unseen but his presence is palpable.

BALE (hissing) Humans are betrayers by nature. You cannot trust them. They will turn on you the moment it suits them.

SOLDIER 1 (defiantly) That’s not true! We were loyal to the Empire, and we’ve done nothing but fight for survival here!

BALE (mockingly) Loyal to the Empire? Or loyal to your greed?

SOLDIER 2 (angrily) We saved your lives! If we wanted to betray you, we would have left you to the badger’s trap.

OLMEC (calmly) And yet, here we are, with one of your own attacking us the moment we saw the treasure.

The soldiers exchange uneasy glances, trying to defend their intentions.

SOLDIER 3 (desperately) That was a moment of panic! We were overwhelmed by fear and greed. It doesn’t define who we are.

BALE (sneering) Humans have always been quick to justify their betrayals. But actions speak louder than words.

CAYLA (pleading) Bale, you speak of betrayal, but are you not trying to use me for your own ends?

BALE (cunningly) I offer you protection from the Dark Lord. A fair exchange for the lives of those who would betray you. It is not betrayal, but survival.

Olmec steps forward, his eyes meeting Cayla’s with a mixture of fear and determination.

OLMEC (firmly) Cayla, we’ve faced death together. I’ve never betrayed you, and I never will. We can’t let the dragon drive us apart.

CAYLA (torn) I know, Olmec. But if the soldiers truly intended to betray us…

SOLDIER 1 (earnestly) We didn’t. We’ve made mistakes, yes, but we’re not your enemies.

BALE (taunting) Their fear speaks now, not truth. They know they are at your mercy, and they would say anything to save themselves.

Cayla looks at the soldiers, then back at Olmec. Her heart is heavy with indecision.

CAYLA (slowly) Humans can change. They can be redeemed. But if I trust them now and they betray us later…

BALE (insidiously) They will. It is their nature. Choose wisely, elven mage.

OLMEC (urgently) Cayla, listen to your heart. Trust what you know, not what you fear.

The soldiers nod fervently, hoping to sway her.

SOLDIER 2 (pleading) We’re not perfect, but we’re not monsters. We fight for survival, just like you.

BALE (dismissively) Empty words. Only actions matter.

Cayla closes her eyes, taking a deep breath. She looks at Olmec, then at the soldiers, and finally addresses the dragon.

CAYLA (decisively) I cannot condemn them without proof of their betrayal. I will not hand them over to you.

The dragon growls, the sound reverberating through the cavern.

BALE (disappointed) You are a fool to trust them. But your choice is made. Remember, I offered you salvation.

Cayla turns to Olmec, her face set with resolve.

CAYLA (softly) We must find another way to protect ourselves from the Dark Lord. Together.

Olmec nods, relief washing over his face. The soldiers stand, humbled and grateful.

SOLDIER 1 (sincerely) Thank you. We will not betray your trust.

BALE (ominously) We shall see, elven mage. We shall see.

The tension lingers in the air as the group prepares to leave the dragon’s lair, united but wary of the trials ahead.

FADE TO BLACK.

INT. VILLAGE INN - OPEN AIR SEATING - NIGHT

CAYLA and OLMEC sit at a wooden table in the open air seating area of a cozy village inn. The atmosphere is warm and lively, villagers bustling about, laughter and chatter filling the air. They enjoy a hearty meal, but their faces are somber, deep in conversation.

OLMEC (quietly) Do you think the dragon was telling the truth about your heritage?

CAYLA (thoughtfully) It would explain my abilities. Why they’re so powerful and unpredictable. But... the Wind Wakers were a legend, Olmec. How could I be one of them?

OLMEC (sincerely) Sometimes legends are rooted in truth. And if you are one, it means you have a destiny greater than we ever imagined.

Cayla sighs, taking a sip of her drink.

CAYLA (softly) And what of your declaration? You said you loved me.

Olmec’s eyes meet hers, filled with earnest emotion.

OLMEC (tenderly) I’ve always loved you, Cayla. I just never found the courage to tell you until now.

Cayla looks away, her expression conflicted.

CAYLA (sighing) It’s a lot to take in. My heritage, the dragon’s words, your feelings... and now the threat of the Dark Lord.

OLMEC (urgently) That’s why we should go to your father. He can help us understand what’s happening, and he might know how to combat the Dark Lord.

Cayla’s face darkens at the mention of her father.

CAYLA (resentfully) My father and I... we don’t see eye to eye. Going to him for help is the last thing I want to do.

OLMEC (softly) He loves you, Cayla. He’ll never lead you astray. And we need all the help we can get.

Cayla notices Olmec’s emphasis on “love” and her expression softens slightly, though uncertainty still lingers in her eyes.

CAYLA (reluctantly) Fine. We’ll head to the eastern woodlands in the morning.

Just then, the soldiers return, their faces grim. The leader steps forward.

SOLDIER 1 (seriously) We’ve received news of ill tidings. A great horde of orcs and goblins is on the move from the south, pillaging towns and villages. The king’s army has been called into service.

OLMEC (resignedly) I guess this is where we part ways.

SOLDIER 2 (nodding) I suppose so. Unless... you would want to join us?

Cayla and Olmec exchange glances, weighing the gravity of the situation.

CAYLA (firmly) We have a duty to stop the Dark Lord. If these orcs and goblins are part of his plan, then our paths may still align.

OLMEC (decisively) We’ll join you. But we need to visit the eastern woodlands first. Cayla’s father may hold the key to understanding and defeating the Dark Lord.

The soldiers nod, acknowledging the importance of their mission.

SOLDIER 1 (supportively) We’ll wait for you. Meet us at the command post when you’re ready.

CAYLA (gratefully) Thank you. We’ll be there as soon as we can.

As the soldiers leave, Cayla and Olmec sit in silence for a moment, the weight of their responsibilities settling over them.

OLMEC (softly) Are you ready for this?

Cayla takes a deep breath, her eyes meeting Olmec’s with a mix of determination and uncertainty.

CAYLA (nodding) As ready as I’ll ever be.

They clasp hands across the table, united in their resolve to face the challenges ahead.

FADE TO BLACK.

INT. VILLAGE INN - MORNING

The sun has just risen, casting a warm glow over the village. CAYLA and OLMEC sit at a table, finishing their breakfast. The inn is quieter now, with only a few patrons scattered about.

OLMEC (concerned) The journey to the eastern woods won't be easy. We need to be careful, especially with your magic. Using it could draw the Dark Lord’s attention.

CAYLA (sighing) I know. We’ll need help to get there safely. Maybe we should ask around the village for traveling companions.

Olmec nods in agreement. They finish their meal and step out into the village square.

EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - DAY

Cayla and Olmec approach various locals, explaining their need for protection on their journey. Each conversation follows a similar pattern.

LOCAL 1 (inquiring) Why are you headed to the eastern woods?

OLMEC (earnestly) We need to seek counsel from someone there. It’s a matter of great importance.

LOCAL 1 (shaking head) Sorry, but that’s too dangerous. I can't help you.

CUT TO:

LOCAL 2 (frowning) The eastern woods? No way. Find someone else.

CUT TO:

LOCAL 3 (disbelieving) You expect me to believe you’re not up to something shady? No thanks.

CUT TO:

LOCAL 4 (scornfully) Not interested.

As the day wears on, Cayla and Olmec sit by the town well, frustrated and disheartened. A young lad, curious and observant, approaches them.

YOUNG LAD (tentatively) I’ve been watching you all day. You should inquire of the Badgers. They’re formidable and always ready for an adventure.

Cayla and Olmec exchange wary glances, remembering their last encounter with a badger.

CAYLA (doubtful) After what happened with that badger, I’m not sure we should trust them again.

OLMEC (sighing) We don’t have any other choice.

They decide to follow the lad’s advice and head towards the local Badger mercenary guild.

EXT. BADGER MERCENARY GUILD - DAY

The guild is a modest building, bustling with activity. Badgers of various sizes and appearances are sharpening weapons, practicing combat, and discussing their latest exploits. Cayla and Olmec step inside, drawing curious glances.

BADGER LEADER (gruffly) What brings humans to our guild?

OLMEC (clearing throat) We need protection on a journey to the eastern woods. We’re willing to pay well.

The badger leader eyes them suspiciously.

BADGER LEADER (doubtful) Why should we trust you?

CAYLA (earnestly) We have no ill intentions. We’re seeking counsel to stop a great evil. Please, we need your help.

The badger leader confers with his companions. After a tense moment, he nods.

BADGER LEADER (approvingly) Very well. Three of our best will accompany you.

Three badgers step forward, armed and ready.

BADGER 1 (grinning) Adventure awaits!

BADGER 2 (nodding) We’ll get you there safely.

BADGER 3 (determined) Let’s set out before it gets too late.

EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - DAY

With their new companions, Cayla and Olmec prepare to leave the village. The townsfolk watch curiously as they make their way out of the square.

OLMEC (quietly) Let’s hope this works out better than our last encounter with a badger.

CAYLA (softly) It has to. We don’t have any other options.

With a mix of hope and trepidation, they set out on their journey to the eastern woods, the three badger mercenaries leading the way.

FADE TO BLACK.

EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF TOWN - DAY

CAYLA, OLMEC, and the three BADGER MERCENARIES walk along a dirt path. Not far ahead, a GYPSY wagon is parked by the roadside. The gypsy, a mysterious woman in colorful attire, beckons them over.

GYPSY (calling out) Come, travelers! Let me tell your fortune for a meager consideration.

The badgers, oblivious to her offer, plop down nearby and begin unpacking their lunch. Olmec looks at Cayla, a twinkle in his eye.

OLMEC (grinning) What could be the harm, Cayla? Maybe something good will come of it. Besides, she looks like she could use the income. It would be a good deed.

Cayla gives Olmec a look as if he’s lost his mind, but his sincere and pleasing countenance makes her relent with a sigh.

CAYLA (resignedly) Fine. But if this turns out to be a waste of time, it’s on you.

INT. GYPSY WAGON - DAY

Inside the wagon, the air is thick with the aroma of incense, herbs, and spices. The dim light casts eerie shadows. The gypsy motions for Cayla to sit and takes her hand.

GYPSY (softly) I see terrible and dangerous events ahead. You will have to choose between two evils more times than you can count. And in the end, you will face a great enemy, where you must choose between defeating it or saving the life of the one you love.

Startled and frightened, Cayla pulls her hand away.

CAYLA (alarmed) Enough! I’ve heard enough.

GYPSY (sympathetically) Such a heavy burden is placed upon you. But don’t you want to know his name? For a small extra fee, the spirits will reveal it.

Cayla rushes out of the wagon, shouting at Olmec.

CAYLA (panicking) Pay the witch, Olmec!

Olmec looks at her with confusion and concern, but reaches into his pouch and hands a few coins to the gypsy. She smiles, pocketing the money as Cayla storms off.

EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF TOWN - DAY

Cayla bursts out of the wagon, visibly shaken. The badgers look up from their meal for a moment, then return to their feasting and laughing. Olmec exits the wagon, catching up to Cayla.

OLMEC (concerned) What did she say to you?

CAYLA (framed in fear and determination) She said I’d have to choose between defeating a great enemy or saving the life of someone I love. And that I'd have to choose between two evils repeatedly.

Olmec’s eyes widen, but he remains calm, trying to comfort her.

OLMEC (gently) It’s just a fortune, Cayla. Nothing is set in stone. We make our own paths.

CAYLA (angrily) You don’t understand, Olmec. It felt... real. As if she truly saw into my future.

OLMEC (earnestly) Whatever comes, we face it together. We’ll get through it. Trust me.

Cayla takes a deep breath, calming down slightly. She looks into Olmec’s eyes, seeing the unwavering trust and support there.

CAYLA (sighing) Alright. But let’s get moving. The sooner we get to the eastern woodlands, the better.

They gather the badgers, who reluctantly pack up their lunch, and continue their journey. The gypsy watches them from her wagon, a knowing smile playing on her lips.

FADE TO BLACK.

EXT. PATH TOWARD EASTERN WOODS - DAY

Cayla, Olmec, and the three badger mercenaries march hard toward the eastern woods. The badgers, eager to reach their destination, talk amongst themselves.

BADGER 1 (grinning) Let's reach the woods by dinner.

The trees of the eastern woods loom close, but Cayla looks troubled, still pondering the gypsy’s fortune.

OLMEC (noticing) You’re still thinking about what she said, aren’t you?

CAYLA (wishing she hadn't agreed to Olmec's request) Yes, I am. I wish we hadn’t stopped.

Ahead, a deep, dry ravine separates the woods from the surrounding lands, spanned by a lone bridge.

CAYLA (frowning) This bridge is new.

The badgers suddenly sense danger, raising their weapons and looking around warily.

OLMEC (confused) What’s up with them?

CAYLA (half to herself) There’s something wrong.

As they reach the bridge, a large troll climbs up from the ravine, blocking their path. He looks them over silently, almost as if waiting for something. The badgers, dismissive, decide he is clearly a mute troll and split off in three directions, quickly passing under and around the slow-moving monster to cross the bridge.

BADGER 2 (shouting back) Hurry up!

OLMEC (to Cayla) We aren’t as small as the badgers. We can’t move that fast.

CAYLA (reluctantly) And if I use my magic, the Dark One will know.

On the other side of the bridge, the badgers sit down to resume their lunch. The troll looks at them, then at Cayla.

TROLL (gruffly) Choose.

CAYLA (confused) What?

TROLL (ominously) Choose between your lives and theirs.

Suddenly, Cayla sees a ghostly wraith standing above the oblivious badgers, a terrible scythe in its hands ready to strike. The wraith looks directly at her, and she feels its menacing smile.

CAYLA (startled) What is this?

TROLL (repeating) Choose.

CAYLA (defiant) No, I won’t choose between them and us!

OLMEC (concerned) What’s going on? The badgers seem fine. Why is he telling you to choose? Is he working for the gypsy?

CAYLA (desperate) There’s a deathly apparition next to the badgers, ready to strike.

OLMEC (disbelieving) I don’t see anything. Are you sure?

CAYLA (shouting) I will not choose!

TROLL (calmly) No man or she-elf can escape her fate. If you will not choose, it shall be chosen for you.

The troll pulls out two huge bones from a sack and is about to toss them into the air when Cayla stops him.

CAYLA (frantic) Wait! I will choose.

She looks down, whispering.

CAYLA (whispering) Forgive me, father, I choose our lives over theirs.

TROLL (triumphantly) Done!

A sudden scream of pain and then silence echoes across the ravine. The troll and the apparition vanish. Cayla, with a heavy heart, looks toward the other side of the bridge, afraid of what they shall find.

OLMEC (cautiously) Cayla...

They cross the bridge slowly, finding the three badgers lifeless, their bodies eerily still. The reality of her choice weighs heavily on Cayla as she collapses to her knees, grief-stricken.

EXT. EDGE OF EASTERN WOODS - DAY

Olmec finishes placing stones upon the graves of their badger companions. He turns to Cayla, who is sitting nearby, tears streaming down her face.

OLMEC (softly) This wasn’t your fault. It has nothing to do with what the gypsy said.

CAYLA (desperate) Yes, it does! Don’t you see? The gypsy knew about the Dark Lord. We didn’t tell her. And she knew about this. If her words are coming true, I can’t face her final prophecy.

OLMEC (determined) There must be another way. We’ll speak with your father and—

CAYLA (cutting him off) Don’t you see? This troll and that wraith, these creatures would never have found haven in my father’s lands. Something is wrong! I’m afraid of what we’ll find when we reach my people’s city.

OLMEC (trying to reassure her) So maybe some things have changed since you’ve been away. That doesn’t mean anything bad has happened.

CAYLA (fearful) My father would never have permitted a creature like that anywhere near his lands. We should have been met by the royal guard at the ravine and given passage over the hidden way. I fear my father and my people are no more.

OLMEC (determined) Don’t say that. Come. Let’s continue. We’ll be at your father’s house by nightfall and you’ll see all is well.

She looks at him with great sadness and concern. Suddenly, they hear a voice cry out for help from the edge of the woods.

OLMEC (alarmed) What’s that?

CAYLA (listening intently) A woman crying for help. I may not be able to avoid my fate, but at least we can help this poor soul, if we hurry.

They sprint toward the sound of her cries and enter the woods. They discover a young woman in ragged clothes surrounded by huge snarling wolves. A hooded figure stands beyond in command over the wolves.

CAYLA (shouting) Stop!

The wolf-lord looks at her, surprised, and pulls back her hood. Cayla looks at the she-elf in wonder.

CAYLA (in shock) Amara, is that you? What is going on here?

After a long moment, Amara speaks.

AMARA (coldly) The outcast returns. But she will find no welcome here. Much has changed, daughter of the king, since you abandoned your king and your people and eschewed your rightful place.

CAYLA (defensive) I do not expect welcome from my father. But the sister I left did not behave so meanly. Stop this torment.

AMARA (sternly) She has dared to trespass into our lands. You know the penalty of crossing the border and entering these woods. Her life is forfeit.

YOUNG WOMAN (pleading) Please, help me! I didn’t know! I was fleeing from a troll and thought I could—

AMARA (cutting her short) Silence!

The wolves growl in anticipation as the young woman presses up against a tree in fear.

CAYLA (commanding) Amara, stop this now. As the king’s daughter, I command you.

AMARA (coolly) And well you may as is your right, but it doesn’t cancel her debt. Her life was lost the moment she crossed under these trees.

CAYLA (resolute) Then I shall stand for it.

OLMEC (alarmed) Wait, what? Cayla, what are you saying?

Cayla looks at him with determination.

CAYLA (resigned) I am done making these impossible decisions. If the king demands my life, then so be it.

OLMEC (concerned) That’s noble. But what about your destiny and saving the world from the Dark Lord?

CAYLA (defiant) I refuse to be a savior at the cost of so many innocents along the way.

OLMEC (trying to reason) We can find another way. Let’s think this through.

Cayla speaks to Amara with a firm resolve.

CAYLA (determined) I pledge my life for this trespasser. See her safely beyond our borders, and I surrender myself to the king’s mercy.

AMARA (smirking) So be it.

Amara smiles ruefully.

OLMEC (concerned) The king is your father, right? He’ll be kind. Won’t he?

Cayla looks at Olmec in despair.

CAYLA (sadly) My father’s lack of kindness is why I left in the first place.

Olmec looks at her with a mix of fear and determination, knowing they are walking into an uncertain and dangerous fate.

EXT. EDGE OF EASTERN WOODS - DAY

Amara whistles, and two wolves harken to her voice. Speaking to the wolves, she gives them instructions.

AMARA (to wolves) Escort the human girl to the nearby village and see she comes to no harm.

The young woman looks mortified to be traveling with the wolves but does not speak. As they depart, Amara turns to Cayla.

AMARA (to Cayla) Come. Your companion must place this hood over his eyes, as you know.

CAYLA (resigned) Yes, I know our law.

OLMEC (surprised) What? I have to be blindfolded? Really?

CAYLA (pleading) Accept this for now, for my sake.

Olmec sighs, noticing her despair. He looks at her with concern and nods. Amara puts the hood over his head roughly.

OLMEC (pained) Ow!

AMARA (smugly) Your companion is quite the warrior.

CAYLA (impatient) Enough, bring us to my father.

AMARA (as she starts to lead them) And I shall. But first, we must deal with the troll. I was on my way to its lair when I came upon the trespasser.

CAYLA (disbelieving) Such foul creatures never dared enter our lands.

AMARA (bitterly) And you shall see much more than that has changed since you fled. But this one will come to a swift end.

The wolves growl eagerly. Amara leads them expertly through the woods, always up toward the foothills of the nearby mountain. Cayla guides Olmec at her side. There is no path they can see, but she seems to know the way instinctively. They travel in silence for a long time. At last, Cayla breaks the silence.

CAYLA (concerned) The queen, how is she?

Amara looks away and doesn’t respond. Then she speaks.

AMARA (avoiding) Those tidings are best from the mouth of the king himself.

CAYLA (alarmed) What do you mean? Has something happened to my mother?

AMARA (firm) Cayla, it is not my place.

CAYLA (demanding) Tell me!

AMARA (snapping) No! You are still the impetuous child always demanding her way. It is no wonder the king censured you. You shall remain silent for the remainder of our journey if you cannot bridle your passions.

Cayla looks furious and is about to speak but then cuts herself short.

CAYLA (with great difficulty) Fine. You are right. As usual.

Amara looks at Cayla with disbelief.

AMARA (softening) I take my words back. You have changed.

After another long silence, Cayla speaks again.

CAYLA (nervous) The troll spoke to us. It said—

AMARA (cutting her short) What did you say?

CAYLA (repeating) I said it spoke and said that I must choose.

Amara suddenly looks concerned.

AMARA (troubled) We cannot vanquish this beast on our own. Only the Dark Lord can open the mouth of a troll. This is a greater foe than I thought. You are fortunate to have escaped it unscathed.

Cayla glances toward Olmec, then realizes he cannot see her knowing gaze.

CAYLA (sorrowful) Three of our companions met their end because of it.

AMARA (resolute) I must bring this news to the king at once.

She looks up to the treetops and whistles again. From high above, a hawk shrieks in response. Moments later, a magnificent red-tailed hawk descends and alights on Amara’s outstretched arm. She speaks softly to the bird, who seems to understand her words. Just as suddenly, it springs back into the air and returns to the skies.

AMARA (calming) Eytheiyon will bring this news to the king. Tell me more about the troll’s words. Choose what?

Cayla's sudden grief washes over her face.

CAYLA (broken) Between two impossible choices. And I chose poorly, to my great shame.

OLMEC (supportive, through his hood) Cayla, it wasn’t your fault.

CAYLA (defeated) It was exactly that. The fortune teller witch said I would hold many in my hand and whether they live or die would be my burden.

Amara stops and looks at Cayla in wonder. Then she speaks.

AMARA (seriously) Perhaps you need to tell me more about this fortune teller as well.