Synopsis: Blossom runs into Locust by chance, and they discuss matters in the East

Location: Somewhere in the Hundred Kingdoms

Recorded: Sunday, May 30, 2009

Cast: Forbidden Blossom, First Father Locust

A figure, hunched and coughing slightly clambers past the remote inn, heavy footsteps marching in a rhythmic pattern as he travels. One man approaches too quickly and catches a glance at the face of the figure under the shrouded kimono - eyes that sizzle with green fire, skin that is cracked to reveal brass, and a mouth that wheezes ash. Quickly the jabbering figure makes his way, dashing away from the old Father Locust who continues, slowly but methodically, to stalk through the kingdom, conspicuous chitin-edged blades reaching out from his back, against which the fading sun glints.

Forbidden Blossom looks over to Father Locust with her more mundanely green eyes. Her reaction is more gauged; a widening of the wides, followed by a broad smile. "Ah. I'd hoped to run into you here. Word does get about" She moves away from the immediate sight of the buildings as she steps towards Locust, her clothing edging towards pinks and oranges in the light. She leans to the side, watching the escaping man with a gentle laugh. "Oh, the uncultured."

The Locust wipes his mouth with the back of one wickedly taloned hand as his face, half-hidden in shadow from the wide hat he wears raises to slowly meet Forbidden Blossoms. "Ah, Sister," he bows his head respectfully, "welcome to the East." Clasping his hands behind his back, the man ambles over, staring at the fading light behind the western mountains. "You are the first I have seen in many months."

Taking a moment, Blossom curtsies, though it's quick. Relaxing, she follows his gaze over the light for a moment. "Ah, I saw another before I began my travels, a poet, but..." She looks over, her grin returned. "... it has been a lonely trip. And what can you tell me of the road ahead?"

"Hrm." First Father Locust remains quiet as the sun's rays glint before turning back to Blossom, speaking in a rumbling basso that is devoid of emotion, "We are outnumbered, though you knew this already. The other Chosen are better-equipped than us for war, and far more potent and connected. At least.. three I've met could kill any of us, I am sure, and likely all of us together." He scratches sharpened fingers together behind himself, which give of a flash of sparks and an eerie grating.

"It is clear that this quadrant will not be won by war. And so I am glad that you are here." He smiles slightly, the corners of his mouth twitching, "Do avoid it, if you can. I will draw them to me like moths, while you remain in the shadows. If at all possible," he purses his lips, "do avoid informing me of your plans. I am in the habit of speaking the truth."

"Ahh, that's too bad, the truth is a dangerous thing to throw around. But then, I trust you are accustomed to it." She closes her eyes for a moment, and the adds, "If what I have heard is true... then yes, they have cities and armies, things we are lacking, as far as I know." She hooks the handle of her parasol over her arm, letting it rest there. "But perhaps seeds can be planted, and bear fruit in their time."

""We do hope." Father Locust intones - the dirt beneath his feet has begun to blacken, and smoke that smells vaguely of sulfur climbs in wisps from it as he gazes out across the valley. "If you can find him, I would that you meet one Black Silk Star, an old compatriot who dwells in Nexus. He may be of assistance to you, and you to him."

Forbidden Blossom says, "Very well, I will see to that once I'm done playing here." She reaches looks again to the sun. "And if you need assistance with anything while I am here..." She looks back over, her green eyes glinting for a moment. "... I would be glad to help."

The weary face of First Father Locust nods at this, "Unity, sister, is all we have." One foot scuffs at the ground. "Do be careful, these lands have grown more violent of late. A Deathlord marches and not long ago I met a furious chimera." He pulls off his wide hat, revealing a shaved head, like some monk, tattooed with tarnished runes.

Forbidden Blossom says, "Perhaps.", as she looks to the runes for a moment. "I have heard of the Deathlord, of course... but a chimera? Interesting." She waves it off, and then adds, "I will have to find a less... flamboyant form, I suppose." She looks for a moment. "Rather dissapointing, what circumstances seek to steal."

Locust, depositing the hat again onto his brow grunts, "This is a land of disappointment and tragedy. At-once, it is fertile for your seeds, and resilient against them. I do wish you luck." The man tips the hat just slightly to Blossom and turns northward, walking slowly and methodically.

Nodding deeply, Blossom says, "Luck is easy..." She looks to the sun and walks onward, looking over her shoulder. "... here's hoping it's with us, though. Good day." And with that, she starts off in the opposite direction.