Thundersnow (Invite)

Jie Shan had begun to train since his failed attempt to ascend. He was once again going back to basics; in this case, push-ups. His toned body, electric with power, pushed against the flagstones of his courtyard. He moved with great care, though his body pumped up and down rapidly. Any more pressure and the flagstones would shatter beneath his powerful body like panes of glass. Super Saiyans, he quickly learned, had to be very careful with how they moved. Their bodies were supercharged weapons, fulled to bursting with power. He had since mastered the transformation and learned the extent of its power, but still: it never hurt to be careful.

But something on the horizon broke his focus: briefly, he was made aware of an approaching power level. He trembled, stopping his body in its tracks lest the newfound distraction break the careful control he had over himself. Instead, he slowed and slowly shifted into a sitting position. Were he not in his Super Saiyan state, the chill would set in: Jie Shan was dressed for exercise. A tight, white, Earthling-make tank top clung to his body and his legs were draped in loose athletic shorts. He had scene the style in an Earthling sports magazine. Those rags were much more common in his home nowadays, ever since he'd opened his doors to the people of Earth. And he'd taken a liking to them himself, for some odd reason.

Jie Shan focused on the energy for a moment. Small, by his standards, but rather large by the standard for this planet. Another martial artist perhaps, come to test their mettle against him or seek training? Whatever it was, he noted as he rose from the ground, it was not utterly of Earth. These days, he did not know if that was a blessing or a curse. Though Jie Shan would soon fine out: there was a knock at his door. Sighing, he left his courtyard and made for the door. He could sense the presence at the front of his building, and moments later a loud knock confirmed the location of his newest visitor.

Jie Shan finally arrived at the door and ran a hand through his spiked, golden hair that was abuzz with powerful energy. He cracked the door open and peered around it, making certain the interloper was not a salesperson selling magazine subsriptions first; the hybrid had enough of those now, four in-fact. A curious set of teal eyes peeked around to find a... woman. An odd looking one, to be sure, but still. Golden eyebrows arched upward in surprise. Not what he had expected, he mused. Jie Shan cleared his through and opened the door in full, a slight burst of icy wind rushing in at the first opportunity.

"Well hello, miss," said Jie Shan with a hint of interest, "I can't say I get many visitors of your kind out this way. You lost? Nearest town is a while out."

Jie Shan cracked a grin. "Or maybe you're here on business," he suggested, "You would not be the first courier someone has sent my way."

---

WC: 521

Jie Shan cocked a gilded eyebrow. She lived nearby?

"I did not realize I had any neighbors at all," remarked Jie Shan, "I must have missed your energy signature."

The presence of another near his home... He did not know quite how to feel about that particular revelation. On one hand, he'd picked the location for this home due to its relative remoteness, Jie Shan preferring the isolation of a northern sea of stone and ice. There was peace here, mostly, a kind he had never known. He supposed it did not truly matter, no. The woman had gone unnoticed until now, likely after parting ways today they would go back to their own existences, indifferent to one another, each preferring their own little slice of the world. Still, the supercharged teal eyes of the Super Saiyan did not leave the person of his visitor. He looked her up and down, eyes like spotlights, searching for any sign of ill intent, or any intent at all.

The strange woman went on, moving to fill the lacuna of the meaning behind this social call. About time, thought Jie Shan, that she reveal what business she was here on. He nodded her on, encouraging her speech. His hand still gripped the heavy metal knob of his door, ready to close it as a moment's notice should the conversation go south or turn to the topic of door-to-door sales.

But she took him by surprise. At first, he dully recognized the words 'Homeworld Restoration Effort', the smallest flash of recognition going through his eyes like a dying light bulb in its death throes. But as the sentence went on, something even more pertinent was said: the Elemi.

"Ah," he said finally, "I see. I suppose I ought to entertain that. I am half-Elemi myself, though my mother. Though I dare say I have been quite... distant from my maternal people."

Jie Shan stepped aside and beckoned her to step in with a sweeping motion of the arm. "Please come in, miss," said Jie Shan, a certain grace now present in his voice, "We can sit down and discuss matters."

Thinking quickly, Jie Shan dispatched a swift mental message to his Earthling apprentice, Dou Furu: that he ought bring some tea to the foyer. The hybrid had guests to entertain.

"By the by, neighbor," continued the silver-haired halfblood, "My name is Jie Shan Lan Dian. Might I have the pleasure of knowing your own name?"

He gave the women a wide smile.

WC: 418

Jie Shan gave the women another appraising look as she stepped into his home. Elemi, he thought, if he had to guess. Jie Shan knew little of the Bijou and besides, the woman had a... frigid look about her. It made sense in his head, though it was quite possible he was wrong about that. Just how many Elemi was he familiar with? Very few, he realized. How little claim he had to half himself, how much of Jie Shan was a stranger in his own body. 

The women gave another speech, introducing herself as Cyronia Arlumia. A mouthful, thought Jie Shan, but he committed to memory. This Cyronia had a lot of assumptions, even going so far as to assume that he had grown up on Earth.  And questions, asking what Jie Shan knew about the plight of their people. And all the while, Jie Shan gave an amused smile. Once again, he ran his hand through his hair and was suddenly aware he was still in his Super Saiyan state, feeling the crackling energy radiating from his biology. "Oh," he said, clearing his throat, "Let me just drop out of this real quick..."

Closing his teal eyes, Jie Shan took a deep breath and let his energy go. Slowly, golden power dwindled away into the ether and he was left in his base state: a fine-kept head of silver hair and black Saiyan eyes that revealed themselves as they fluttered open. Saiyan tail, all brown and alive, swayed behind him as he now crossed the foyer to join Cyronia in a seat near her. "Sorry about that," he began, "I've trained that form to such a degree it has begun to feel natural. I didn't even notice I was still in my Super Saiyan form when I greeted you."

He sat himself into his seat, tail wrapping tight around his waist, and positioned himself to be facing Cyronia, hands folded in his lap and a wide grin on his face. "Now," he began, "Allow me to answer your questions. Sadly, no, I was not born here on Earth. My origins are in a different part of the universe. Planet Natto, in-fact. You see, my mother is a hired blade, a mercenary. She was contracted with the Saiyan Alliance for a short while and in that time she met my father. I suppose something occurred, because I was born some time later on Natto. My mother departed the Saiyan planet and left me with my father, who raised me from my early childhood."

He paused a moment and gave her a moment to consider the information. "However," he continued, "My mother returned after some time and took me away from the planet. From there on, I joined her on her mercenary adventures across the galaxy. And for the longest time, she was the only Elemi, aside from myself, whom I knew. And let me tell you, mother said precious little about the Elemi or Bijou. She, of course, told me about the doomed nature of our shared origin, but she told me little about our people. Yes, I am well aware of the extended absence they took from the universe, but beyond that, I know little else."

He gave a slight, sad chuckle. "And I am sad, and almost embarrassed, to say that she never mentioned the true name of the planet. She's always called it ES-03 when talking about it. I guess that's the common name. Mother was always a little... detached. Primarily concerned with her work as a mercenary, you know? It was not until... I want to say three years ago, that I met anyone else of Elemi ancestry."

---

WC: 613

Jie Shan watched with curious interest as the women frowned. Had he said something wrong? If he did, did he even care? Likely not. But still, he listened to this Cyronia give her speech on the storied past of the Elemi race. Though he did not quite appreciate that it began with a perceived slight against his mother. Jie Shan did not like to think of her as neglectful; she was the one who taught him near on everything there was to know about the universe. Just because she did not refer to the Elemi homeworld as "Matteria" did not mean she was any less of a mother. Jie Shan gave a stark frown, but said nothing yet; he would listen first, then speak.

And quite the story it was. Arlumia spoke of this doomed Matteria. How it had become inhospitable and the people of its people had left the galaxy in a huff, abandoning their planet to its fate. Not a poor choice, thought Jie Shan, sometimes it was better to cut ones losses and move on. Especially, he mused, when your entire planet had gone and become deadly to live on. That was usually a good time to take a step back and give it a break. And so the natives had, only returning after some time. To find it was still inhospitable, of course. Jie Shan could have inferred that much; he was not utterly devoid of logic, like some sort of child. He got the impression that Cyronia might have been a school teacher once upon a time, perhaps it a past life. The way she sat was so formal, so rigid.

Still, Jie Shan nodded politely and listened. Cyronia went on to explain more about the state of their people. She mentioned this "Zenon" character and his ascent to a state called "Super Elemi", which greatly interested Jie Shan. Was it like a Super Saiyan transformation? He had never quite heard of it, though it was amusing to consider that such power laid dormant in Elemi blood. It seemed his cocktail of mixed blood was quite impressive indeed. Super Saiyans and Super Elemi, he thought, how grand. How, dare he say, super?

But she went on to the formation of the Homeworld Restoration Effort and its massive space station HOME. She even mentioned those who left that little band of Elemi and Bijou, outcasts, he presumed, his mother belonged to. Still, the idea of terraforming an entire planet was quite interesting, Jie Shan had to admit. Such grand sciences were outside his realm of expertise, but he had an eye for bureaucratic projects; the Alliance had trained him well in that regard. It was a dizzying prospect that such things were possible. To change the fate of an entire planet? That would truly take a miracle. Though, he supposed greater things had happened.

Cyronia went on, speaking of Jie Shan's heritage. Jie Shan had no doubt the legacy of the Elemi people was long and storied and Jie Shan was truly interested, but... what claim did he have to it? Until today, he had never even heard the true name of ES-03. Jie Shan had never really cared. But now he was faced with it head on: this woman was asking him to join this so-called Homeworld Reclamation Effort. Jie Shan regarded her curiously. How interesting, he thought, that she would extend such an offer so soon after meeting him. Perhaps they were desperate for help, or perhaps Cyronia had simply taken an interest in Jie Shan. She claimed Jie Shan was extraordinary. He cocked an eyebrow; Jie Shan heard that one before.

Suddenly, Jie Shan let out a deep sigh. "Well, Miss Cyronia," he said, looking at her now, regarding her with a small smile, "You have certainly said a lot and given me much to think on. Though I don't necessarily appreciate the comment about my mother, though I doubt you meant it in malice. I think it was sensible to refer to it as ES-03. Better to give me the galactic standard term, should it ever come up in conversation, yes?"

He paused a moment, never letting the diplomatic smile drop from his face.

"As for joining this Homeworld Reclamation Effort of yours, well, let's discuss that," he continued, "I am no stranger to political organizations or bureaucracy. I can't say I am especially tempted by the prospect of a high rank nor the possibility of attaining a council seat. In fact, I dare say I might even be a little sour on the idea. You see, I was a Councillor for the Saiyan Alliance, prior to all the recent... business that has occurred. As you can imagine, I've wielded great political power before. And I gave it up willingly, coming to Earth so that I might enjoy myself. And I have made quite the life for myself here."

He held up his arms in a sweeping motion, as if to ask her to look about her. "I traded political power for a home," he explained, "I've even gone and created a new martial arts tradition during my time away from politics, something I always wanted to do, and it has found great success. My Lightning Blade Arts is my pride and joy, and I have started to take in students from this planet. Quite the responsibility, you know?"

He cleared his throat. "Though I will say, Miss Cyronia, certain aspects of this Homeworld Reclamation Effort appeal to me."

Jie Shan grinned wide as he looked at her. "Certain aspects, of course," he said, "Including, but certainly not limited to, this claim of yours that I could do some good and ease the suffering in the universe. Of course, I've recently rededicated myself to that elsewhere, but perhaps I might be convinced to lend you my hand, Miss Cyronia."

Jie Shan gave a small shrug. "Perhaps you and I could discuss it more after I have had some time to consider if involving myself in another organization is something I want to do," he offered, "I'd certainly enjoy hearing more about this Matteria and our people in the meantime, if you're willing."

---

WC: 1030

"I suppose my mother was far from the typical Elemi then," remarked Jie Shan, "If I ever see her again, I'll have to ask her about that. Though, she's not. . . fond of staying in one place for long, so she might be hard to track down. And maybe that is why she was loathe to talk about our people. But, of course, that is guesswork. Mother was always a touch on the mysterious side."

The topic of politics was always an interesting one to Jie Shan, despite his own loathing for bureaucracy and other political nonsense. Perhaps, he thought, it was like watching a car wreck in slow motion; morbid curiosity kept him from turning away. The crazed and murderous despots and conniving political snakes of the universe made for almost sickening entertainment at times; Jie Shan was glad to be out of politics, especially with recent events. No, he thought, he was much suited to being an outsider, changing the course of history with his blade, steering it and cutting it down when need be. Jie Shan preferred his problems to be direct, though his mind was more than capable of fathoming the gross and dirty depths of the political question.

But then Miss Cryonia spoke of a compromise. Jie Shan leaned even further in, listening closer to what she had to say about this suggestions of her's. What she revealed was interesting: the true political core of the Homeworld Reclamation Effort. Political power, as it turned out, was rare in the organization, with power only being extended to two groups, despite outward appearances. And somehow, this did not surprise Jie Shan, nor did it ease the feelings of doubt that he had about the Homeworld Reclamation Effort. Oligarchs, thought Jie Shan, rarely did anyone any sort of good. But these Favored interested Jie Shan. What were they? Special Agents? And to have the offer of such a title extended to him made him even more interested into what they were exactly. Errand boys, perhaps? Though it did sound as if they had a fair bit of leeway in their duties. 

"The Favored, eh?" Muttered Jie Shan, "Sounds like they do a lot of the heavy lifting."

Jie Shan looked on interest as the girl produced a device: a holodisk, she called it. Jie Shan nodded as she explained. It sounded almost like a scouter to him, with its communicator capabilities. Though he supposed such technology was not exactly exclusive these days. And as she revealed its purpose, she revealed her purpose: she was going to be on Earth some time to work on projects. And she wanted Jie Shan to accompany her. So, thought Jie Shan, she needed a bodyguard. Just what kind of trouble was she planning on getting into, if any at all? Of course, it was sensible to be on guard on a strange world: Jie Shan had learned that much during his stint with the Alliance and his time in the field. Though Jie Shan was curious about these 'circumstances'. Jie Shan stared at the woman, trying to figure her out. But like before when she had covered her face, Jie Shan was left without a clue: she looked perfectly at ease as she arched back in her seat.

The girl knew how to appeal to Jie Shan, he would give her that much. The prospect was certainly tempting. Jie Shan had always been an adventurous, curious soul and the chance to try out this new path was plenty tempting, at least to get some small experience with the Homeworld Reclamation Effort. They were, after all, bound by some red string of blood.

The topic soon turned to elemental swordsmanship, and Jie Shan gave a tiny grin as she paid him a complement. And what she said was true: teaching people elemental techniques was no small matter, despite ki being able to form a viable substitute even for beings that did not have any affinity for elements. It was hard; such reactions were normally produced only in the case of extremely strong or skilled uses of ki; Jie Shan got by with some measure of ease due to his own affinity and a lifetime of elemental manipulation.

"You're right about that," said Jie Shan happily enough, "Elements are tricky, lightning doubly so. It takes a certain. . . mettle to manipulate the unbridled forces of lightning. I can understand why one might not take a liking to it."

And Jie Shan listened with interest as the lady explained her own pursuit of power: Elemi's lifespans grew with their power. Now that he had not known and it left him wondering if the same ringed true of himself, despite his mixed blood. It was certainly an interesting idea, to know or not if he would live beyond the years he thought he had. And he supposed there was only one way to find out: to continue living.

"An admirable goal, Miss Cryonia," remarked Jie Shan, "To live for your people."

"Well," said Jie Shan with a sigh, "I am still unsure whether or not I would be keen on throwing myself into this political arena of yours, but you do make an intriguing case, Miss. I'll tell you what: I will take you up on your offer of working with you while you are on Earth. I should like to spend some measure of time with you, if only to figure out exactly how I feel about this Homeworld Reclamation Effort. Curiosity has always been able to get the best of me, and you and this Homeworld Reclamation Effort are quite. . . curious."

"And as for relaxation," continued Jie Shan, "You are quite right. We do need to take time every now and again to relax and center ourselves. Perhaps we ought to speak casually on this sometime. My door is always open, so to speak."

And with that, Jie Shan leaned back in his seat. "So, Miss Cryonia," he said, grinning wide at her, "Where do you want to go from here?"

WC: 1005

Jie Shan paused a moment, placing a finger to his lips. Quite the lesson on Elemi, he thought. It seemed as if this Cryonia was set on shattering all his expectations about what the Elemi actually were like. Not that his expectations were particularly solid or well ingrained; the Elemi might as well have been strangers to the young hybrid who shared their blood with him. Having had no true home and no true cultural experience save for that of the stalwart Saiyan race and their tendency to follow a sort of uniformity as far as personality, the hybrid could almost be forgiven for making such assumptions about the Elemi race.

Jie Shan certainly forgave himself.

"I see," he said with a nod, conceding the point to Miss Cryonia, "It certainly seems that our people are quite the varied race then. I had no clue that we came in such an assortment of. . . flavors, if you will. I knew well enough that we commanded a wide variety of them, such as my own lightning, but I did not realize the depth and breadth of these variations. I suppose my own mother's free spirit is not so odd now, with this enlightenment."

And now the women expounded upon the nature of the Favored, the Council, and the myriad members and approaches the Homeworld Reclamation Effort took when it came to action. It echoed her earlier explanation, and Jie Shan nodded with faux interest while wishing he had not said anything at all as the girl speak.

"I think I understand, Miss Cyronia," he stated, "My apologies for speaking so. . . brashly and without knowledge. The Homeworld Reclamation Effort sounds like a very fine group, then, and I hope that they can continue to maintain that measure of integrity as they work towards their goal."

Because, thought the hybrid, the forces that be knew well enough that integrity was hard enough to come by in this world. Jie Shan knew that truth well enough and he had accepted it long ago, though with some bitterness. Just as Cryonia had guessed, there was a measure of bad experience with politics; though the hybrid had never really been keen on it.

Jie Shan gave a small chuckle, an airy breath of laughter.


"It certainly does not have to be all business, no. You don't make unpleasant company, that's for sure. It would be. . . a pleasure, to continue speaking like this," he remarked, with a cocksure grin, "A good deal more pleasant than political talk, that is for sure. I am weary of that, yes, though I cannot help but notice how such things continue to fall into my lap."

Jie Shan ran a hand through his hair.

"Though perhaps it makes for pleasant surprises," he added, "Either way, I'll be sure to give you an answer eventually. I would hate to keep a lady waiting for to long."

"Especially one as ambitious as you," he continued, "Political dealings and scientific research? Quite the checklist you have there. Though I would be happy to assist however I can."

---

WC: 512