Read Flesh and Bone Page 6

DACO

  One of us will be given his magics.

  ANGARA

  But who?

  RINGOR

  Agbayani.

  AGBAYANI

  What?

  RINGOR

  Agbayani should get it.

  TIGAS

  Wha—oh, yes, yes. Agbayani’s should get it.

  AGBAYANI

  Why me?

  RINGOR

  You are the strongest. If we send a weak Lumahan to speak, no one will listen, no matter if he has magics. They’ll laugh at him. If Agbayani goes, then his strength will show our strength [To FIONN] And your philosophies’ strength.

  DACO

  Good idea. Good thinking.

  FIONN

  I don’t completely agree with the notion, but I will abide. Agbayani, are you ready to receive my defense mechanism?

  AGBAYANI moves to stand in front of FIONN, then nods.

  Don’t worry. You’ll feel a tingling sensation, but no pain. Once you receive the defense mechanism, you’ll instinctively know how to use it.

  AGBAYANI nods and holds out HIS hand to receive it. FIONN holds AGBAYANI’s hand. For a moment, a miraculous light shines between THEM. THEY are frozen in time, and then it’s gone. THEY let go.

  ANGARA

  That was…amazing.

  TALAO

  Ya’ get the magics, Agbayani?

  AGBAYANI

  Yes. It feels…strange.

  FIONN

  I trust you will use it for good.

  DACO stands.

  DACO

  Agbayani, I want you to go now. Go to our neighbors the Banta Tribe, and tell them I want to speak to their leader. Tell them…I have a gift to give them.

  AGBAYANI

  Yes, Daco. I will do this.

  FIONN

  Now, Daco?

  DACO

  Yes. It will be my first time to speak of the philosophies. I want you to help me.

  FIONN

  That’s…actually a good idea.

  DACO

  I’m thinking. Thinking’s good.

  FIONN

  It definitely is. Agbayani, I wish you luck in your travels.

  TALAO

  Don’t get yerself killed.

  TIGAS

  Ask if they have anything to trade, too.

  AGBAYANI exits.

  DACO

  Daco—I want to look at the Eye of Peace more. On the hill. For…for…