The second act begins with a scene in which the audience learns about the fate of Viola’s twin brother, Sebastian. A man by the name of Antonio rescued Sebastian from the sea. Antonio brings Sebastian to the coast of Illyria, and there Sebastian describes his adventures.
Sebastian tells Antonio that he comes from a respectable family and that he has a twin sister whom, he believes, was drowned. Sebastian believes that he suffers from a terrible fate or destiny (line 3: “my stars shine darkly over me”), and so he warns Antonio to leave him. However, Antonio becomes a loyal friend who intends to help Sebastian recover his good fortune (luck).
Sebastian decides to go to Count Orsino’s court to see what help he may find there. Although Antonio will remain as Sebastian’s friend, he must keep himself hidden: “I have enemies in Orsino’s court” (39). Antonio had fought in the wars against Illyria, and he was an accomplished soldier well known to his enemies. Thus, he is not safe in Illyria. However, he does not wish to leave Sebastian. So, Antonio enters the city but does not go to Orsino’s court with his new friend.