Light was the fall of snow this fine afternoon, chilly throughout the atmosphere so that it may draw visible breath from those outside in the open. The crashing of waves against the cliff face was heard below, and a small gravel beach could be seen at the base where perhaps a person could peacefully relax to the drone of the ocean. If it was cold enough to snow here, then it was left to imagination how biting the caress of the water would be; at least it was not enough to freeze the surface over. This was somewhere along the northern coast of Russia, where the Arctic Ocean meant with the crown of Asia. Not too far from the edge of the cliff, structures had been constructed where people could live and also work. Most significantly were the leadership offices that had been stationed here, where an even more important few figures could be found; specifically, James Mizumuzi and Radioactive. Why it was decided that this structure would be built here of all places was beyond the genius mind of Nozomi, perhaps due to the sheer stupidity behind its reasoning, but that was not much of her concern. The arctic winds would become empowered and begin to converge at the tip of the cliff, bringing the snowflakes together into a humanoid form. They swiftly took an incredibly detailed outline of the First-Haired Quincy, before the texture and color took place. Once a white powdery snow lady, now there was a true human with smooth pale skin and a black and white outfit to cover her. Red eyes pierced through her face and blue hair streamed off the back of her head until it was swinging down behind her knees. The full form of Nozomi Sumashuu materialized, and her presence would be announced with her signature Onikagahi spiritual pressure.
She looked happy, with a smile upon her face and vitality brimming in the hues of her eyes. She twirled around on the tip of her toe, causing her skirt to lift a bit off her hips, and she swiped her arms through the fall of snow around her. After her delicate little pirouette she began to skip away from the cliff towards the civilization more inland. While she was not going to disclose the wonderful time with her husband that had put her into this mood to anyone, it was certainly the reason behind the giddy mood and the frolicking. So now instead of launching a full-scale attack upon the country of Russia, she thought perhaps that a little bit of gentle diplomacy would achieve her ends. And honestly, she felt like she couldn't be stopped no matter which route she took; confidence was brimming in her heart. It didn't matter that other people already held claim to this place and that it was such a massive claim of land: Nozomi knew she'd be able to make a deal for the takeover. So she kicked up a plume of snow and then hopped into the air, now soaring through the air to get to her destination. Her Omnidou eyes caught sight of the two she was looking for in pair, conversing with each other no doubt about orders or something else Nozomi couldn't care less about at the moment. It was a kilometer or so away from where she had arrived, but easy to spot with her sight. And only Nozomi truly knew how she had managed to arrive at such a coincidental time to catch them together like this, whether luck or actual knowledge.
Nozomi's floating body would implode into itself, being compacted into an infinitesimal point of space before vanishing entirely with a sparkle of light. Then, not five feet from the two men, she popped back into existence within the second, as if she jumped out of the snow. She landed on her feet with a puff of snow, stranding straight up and placing her hands on her hips; the smile stayed so she could greet them with a cheery tone: ''Hai there!'' she spoke out in Russian, without wearing the accent that came with it. ''James, Radioactive, sirs of Russia, do I have proposition for you that you will not be able to turn down. I am prepared to offer not only a great service in the name of your country, but an offering in payment as well, for the very land in question. Now I know this is all so very sudden and probably seems absurd but... I think I can make you an offer you'd love.'' She paused here and then turned specifically to Radioactive, a grossly pleasant expression static on her face. One step forward before continuing.
''Please, allow me to introduce myself. I am Nozomi Sumashuu, the First Quincy.'' One big grin.
The days had been dull. So very dull and filled with darkness like the rest of this spiraling nightmare of a year. Outside of the flare from his clash with the juggernaut known as Moonie, the year of 2414 has been nothing but a grey and cold void for the Lord of Russia. His heart was crumbling, body growing lethargic and mind descending in a depression. Those whom were close to him were all be dwindling in numbers as he family shrank upon the supposed death of Claire, Senna and Ceon Clixx; the last remnants of what he had of a home. From his ascension to a Shinigami, he and his sister were both separated from their mother, father and numerous siblings. This detached the unity of a parental figure in the man's life. What followed next was his wife and daughter were all but considered killed in the aftermath of the Soul King's war. With that life lost, this left the most precious women in his life gone.
As time pressed forward, the likes of his son would all but disappear into the conflict of the world as he secluded himself from the world to attain power his own way. This left the man to his own devices now that the children were flying from the nest. And much like his offspring, even his own sister, whom had spent countless centuries by his side, was all but missing from the scene following World War Three. Outside of the man known as Fang, Radioactive's brother, there weren't any immediate family left for him to cherish. And even Fang's assaults on his person all but ceased -- causing him further anguish that built up inside of him. For despite his younger sibling constantly trying to assassinate him, there was still tolerance and patience for family.
So the type of man who would even forgive his own brother for attempting to kill him and his lover to endure this kind of loss -- is mind numbing almost. The Shark Giant's heart was as cold as the Russian snow in light of all these tragedies compiling one on top of another. The only thing that left the man grounded was his dying wish to keep the country of Russia protected -- no matter what. It is on these blood soaked fields, over eight centuries ago, where he lived and died by war. It is why he has bared the burden of this pain -- for life is nothing but a long and extensive war of the mind, body and heart.
Thus, as he took in all of these internal complexities swirling in his mind, he'd remember just who he was fighting for even in the midst of his brains own internal war. There was apart of him that just wanted to give up, throw in the towel and never raise his fist -- but he knew he was stronger than that. That is why, even though he felt alone, he must continue moving himself forward, pressing himself towards the future and maintaining his life so that the light of those people he once gave his heart and soul to would live on in his spirit so long as he wanders this universe.
It is why when he received news of the upcoming and Quincy known as "Nozomi Sumashuu" wanting to pay Russia a visit, he knew nothing good could come of it with his skeptical viewpoint in the world being so strong now. There had been numerous reports from Russia's intelligence that this woman was attempting to build some sort of new utopia or kingdom where Quincy and human's were assembling throughout this region of the world. So, while Radioactive may not possess her "god-like" mind, the man more than made up for that in the volumes of common sense his time on this existence has given him. If that woman was coming to Russia, it only meant one thing: she wanted to absolve his homeland.
Therefore, the intentions of this Quincy were as clear as crystal to the male no matter what demeanor she presented herself with. The only question that was in the minds of the Russian authorities, and Radioactive himself, was this: did she intend to turn into yet another grand scale war, or would this prove to be resolved peaceful manner? Given the unstable nature of the planet, there was no telling where this uncomfortable meeting would go for the diplomats of Russia. Yet, in the mind of the Beast, there was no other conclusion then this: that woman -- would not take his home.
It matters not if he were the lone man standing in this continent, he would sooner see his demise than allow what he fought, lived and died for be claimed by an outsider. So, from out of the gate, Radioactive was on guard and ready to strike at the slightest sign of aggression or hostility against him or his people. He had no interest in meddling with the affairs of the planet given how much of it had utterly gone to shit throughout the centuries. Russia, for the most part, was in its own secluded domain away from this and the woman only presented a threat to drag them into that mess.
And Radioactive -- would not allow that to happen.Thus, the male converged on the area where Nozomi was conversing with two males who, were similar in body-type to both James and Radioactive, but were no cigar. Descending upon these three, the enormous shadow of The Nuclear Beast's shadow loomed over The First Quincy's backside as he stood at seven foot eleven. Unkempt golden locks flaring in the cold winter wind, the extensive length of Radioactive's hair rivaled even The Blueberry Haired woman's own hair. Fixating his golden eyes upon her figure, she'd feel as if a beast were watching her as he exhaled a gruff breathe of air.
If she were to turn around at this point, she'd notice that the male was very -- lightly -- dressed for such a harash and barren environment. Wearing nothing more than brown boots and a loose fitted pair of black cargo pants with numerous bandages over lower legs and right thigh; the first inspection of his dirtied body was quite a stark contrast to the near LIFELESS embodiment of Nozomi's pale figure. With his bare body exposed to the elements that be, the numerous scars across the male's body were visible to all. There was an X shaped scar on the man's chest, two on his upper right arm, another on his right shoulder and the last being on his upper left arm.
Indeed, if this man's body could talk, the stories of its combat could speak for eons. For, at this point, if Nozomi were to observe the man's face, she'd even notice that his left eye was even missing. So even if Radioactive spoke no words, the Shark Giant's shell more than told the story. It is why Radioactive gave her a perplexed look for a few moments as he reflected upon that notion. For someone who is suppose to be The First Quincy, shouldn't her body be riddled in glory badges? He never saw the point in hiding what the body has endured like most others of his statue. People like Shadin Yuudeshi, Mana Asthavon, Zefonse Kaizame, Claire Clixx and others just made him shake his head internally as they were folks that hid their bodies beauty.
Oh well. No point in getting lost in those pointless sentiments. What made the male disgusted as he observed the females disposition was the nonchalant attitude she possessed. While Radioactive was no person to care for being polite, this attitude sickened him as this was quite the serious-minded manner to him when it came to dealing with his country. So he could only let out a harsh scoff in response to the words she uttered in her jovial tone. There was a sense of arrogance that gave him a brief reminder of The Hollow Queen that he didn't like. So he'd address her and make his objective clear as of all this waiting was making his nerves boil over.
"Do you take me for a fool? Please do not take the Russian people for simpletons. We've observed you for quite some time, Quincy Woman." Filled to the brim with that classic Russian-esque accent, the grim tone of Radioactive's deep voice showed great scorn for her presence here; but not enough to act on anything just yet. "I'm not going to accept payment for the land where I lived and die protecting. That is nothing more than a joke befitting The Blood Queen herself."
At this point, most of the soldiers around them were now regrouping and getting behind the Russian barrier as their supposed leader should be able to handle these matters on his own. Just in case, however, this meeting being recorded to otherwise -- secure their assets. If one act of war was given -- all hell would break loose. Even if Radioactive himself fought it with his bare hands. "So you are correct...it is ABSURD. I'd recommend returning back to your Utopia. Russia, as a whole, is not interested into the affairs of this planets turmoil. We've isolated ourselves as we have for many years to keep ourselves pure. An outsider such as yourself would not understand."
Now folding his arms, he'd observe the type of response he'd get from Nozomi. It was clear he wasn't buying whatever she was selling.
"You may be able to fool The Demon Queen, but I'm not so gullible, Quincy. We will not be abolished into that abomination you call a "paradise". And certainly not for something as cheap as currency."
JJ
Rower of Rock. And Souls.
Joined : 2011-03-03 Posts : 5174 Age : 27 Location : , Location, Location!
A much calmer voice echoed across the plains, as a body shot up from the oceans next to the coastline. Spinning a strange trident in his hands, the male's legs were totally crossed as he sat down on a wave that was coming into the bay... and coming... and coming... and it was suddenly in front of them, the water having stretched all this way as the male sat on top of it, one eye closed and the other, red one, piercing as the blue eye had been closed.
"What our large friend said, though, isn't exactly false."
The male who had appeared wasn't like the Shark Beast. He was nowhere near as large or strong, certainly, but for certain his will was nearly as bright. This was James Mizumuzi, the one who had suffered at the hands of the Iramasha and rose above it. This was the first of the Nature Iramasha, and a relic who had been taught in the forms of ancient Judaism. It was a strange thought to call him a man of God, but those teachings had long since given him his moral compass, and that moral compass was whirring in all kinds of directions as he had meditated on what the woman had said.
"I am afraid that you are going to be denied by emotion. Do you not know the history of Russia, Mother of Quincy?" The young-looking man asked her as he opened both eyes, revealing the red and the blue. "I can see you are a master of manipulation... but trying to manipulate the male before you would lead to him gouging out all of his own senses, even knocking out his own link with his body and having it fight against you unconsciously... And you don't want him to remove his limiters."
The male explained to her, his neck slowly swerving to one side as it began to pop, a sigh leaving his lips as he relaxed. "For the sake of courtesy of this land, you may say what you have come to say... but do not forget history." The male known as James Mizumuzi told the woman... and it was so. The history of Russia had never once seen an outside force take it, by any means. It had defied every attempt to take it over, suffered but never surrendered. Even if she were to start a violent war with this country, that would never change... even if she were to take the country over, still it would never change. She would be fought and resisted every single point of the way, no matter what. To take over Russia was a task so difficult that the greatest leaders in history had never had a prayer of accomplishing it. And yet, this is just what this woman was attempting to do.
The male opened his mouth then, yawning loudly. After all, he had just woken up from relaxing in the bay, having been clearing it of its nuclear pollution while he slept. "Russia doesn't make deals. It's been screwed every time it has in the past. What prayer does your manipulation have against men whose will has allowed them to remain their own people even in these times?" The male questioned her at last, honestly curious about what it was that allowed for her to have the courage to perform this daunting task before herself...
Believe nothing, no matter where you read it or who has said it, not even if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. - Buddha
Dexterity
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Something caught in the eyes of the strange two before her, a demeanor of slight surprise in their expression just before a loud thud sounded behind her, the crushing of stone padded by the blanket of snow. She didn't need to look to see, but she would lean back and crane her neck to see the imposing figure of the actual Radioactive standing just short of a full eight feet. His apricot flesh contrasted horribly against the white foggy background and snowfall, but Nozomi was not the one to really judge what was or wasn't photogenic. Somehow, the man was packing even less clothing on him that Nozomi had managed to do with, leaving his patchwork of scars out in the open like medals of wars past. He was truly an intimidating figure, but the girl wasn't one who would be affected by looks, as the lesson that 'looks could be deceiving' rode deep within her mind. For example, her impeccable eyes had somehow been fooled into believing that these two random guards in front of her were the people she was looking for, despite how radically different they were in every other aspect aside of appearance. Nozomi honestly didn't know what had gotten into her to make her misjudge the person who had annihilated the majority of her race and some random lookalike—perhaps the jolly attitude was clouding her thoughts a bit. She chastised herself for losing focus and then turned to the real Radioactive, standing properly up straight and bringing her hands behind her back to clasp together. Her words, at the very least, had been heard; the man was clearly already disinclined after all, and neither was his response very pleasant.
Politeness was key here, and no interruptions would be made despite all the comebacks she had to make. But, if she had come to believe that her opening line would convince anyone right off the bat, then she truly would be considered a fool. What her opener was supposed to achieve is to simply break the ice and make her intentions clear, for contrary to the Shark's beliefs, Nozomi was being rather authentic. Any one who knew of what would become of the new Russia would likely wish it upon their own country, for such a small price of being knocked down a rung on the ladder. That was the exchange to be made: Nozomi would take over but give the old leaders a place at second in command, all so she could bring utopia to the population of these lands. Everything else would be a simple bargaining chip, and there would be few things out of the Quincy's reach to give. The offer, however, was not the issue. Instead, it was the ingrained nature of these people that were going to make this deal difficult. Mounds upon mounds of sentimental value and the unwilling to work with outsiders made not for a clean exchange. If Radioactive's berating of everything good in Nozomi's intentions was of any indication, it was quite clear that all that he was used to dealing with were people trying to take advantage of him and his homeland; so, when someone put out a genuine hand out for him, he would rather spit on it then take it.
Perhaps the other leader would be able to see what Radioactive could not; the jet-haired individual would rise out of the seas in much more decent attire than either of them, he would land on the edge of the cliff riding atop a chariot of the ocean. His arrival was much more graceful and decorative than Radio's, and was much easier to appreciate as well. While he definitely seemed like the more reasonable of the sort, he too held deep within his heart the unwillingness to work with 'the new'. Similarly, he too assumed Nozomi to be deceiving them into an unwanted deal, without the actual evidence to support it. History as the culprit, both in Nozomi's actions and the events in the past of Russia. James warned her to not forget that, and she nodded silently though the memories had never left her mind for a single second. She glanced between the two of them with a slightly weathered smile now, affronted by their disapproving glares, but she stood firm. They were quite clear in their own intentions, announcing that they would not relinquish their home to her. Nozomi was just as steadfast, assured she would be able to come to an agreement. The two opposing forces stood off from each other, neither willing to back down. It was time to see how this contest would turn out.
Finally it was Nozomi's turn in the spotlight, and she strengthened her smile as she tried to split her attention equally between the two of them. Her voice, however, was much lighter on the ears and less irritatingly shrill. ''Now... hold on. I didn't come here to insult you or the people of Russia; that is just straight untruthful. You may know of my actions, but you don't know of my story, and it is clear to me that going off first impressions isn't going to get us anywhere, lest you wish for me to perceive you as a big brute who has no qualms with committing genocide.'' She let that hang in the air for a moment, though her tone did not mention it in a biting tone. Whether he liked it or not, Radio was dealing with another leader of countries, and one who had more than enough reason to smite him on the spot. However, the First Quincy instead stood offering diplomacy instead of war, a smile on her face and attempting to be pleasant. He could point out Nozomi's incidents all he wished—if he knew of them—but they would do no good for anyone. She was mature enough to get over them and put a hand out, now it was his turn.
''A foreigner arrives on your doorstep looking like a fool, pitching an offer to take over your country like they're trying to market chocolate door-to-door. You have a long history of betrayal and invasions into your land, and you've hardly ever been done right by working with others... I know of your history and you have every right to respond adversely to this, both of you. But...'' Nozomi would pause, letting the howling wind fill the silence between them for a moment as her mind raced. Images of the future, of what Russia could become with glorious cities that rose to the skies, where every single being could live far and away from poverty ever again. When Nozomi spoke of the word utopia, she could only see the good in it. What cost was there to utopia when it was fueled by the power of imagination. There were no constraints nor pitfalls, and it would only bring a better life to all who resided within the borders of her lands. It came at the sacrifice of her own power—she would toil to create a dreamland for the millions upon millions of people under her protection. This was not the trap that these people seemed to envision it as. ''But I won't be turned away. I told you, I have an offer that I know you will want if only you'd come to realize what I see. Not just you, but your people. This isn't about just currency, though it is just one of many things I can offer to you.
I can list so many reasons why this is nothing but good for your country. I will give you more protection, and an army to guarantee your lands will never be infringed upon again by any opposing force. I can build grand cities across every square mile of this land, where the standards of living for each and every soul is greater than a king's. I will maintain your isolationist policy strongly as I've always intended... and many more than that, James, Radioactive. I can list a great list, but allow me to do this properly. If I as an outsider am impure, incapable of understanding; then, allow me to understand it and tell me your story. Allow me to prove how genuine I am, and then tell you my own story, and what I envision for your people. Is that not what you would want?'' Her arms now hung at her side, and her smile had slowly dissipated throughout the entire speech, transforming into a much more serious expression as the words became stronger and stronger in authenticity. She was pathetically puny when measured up against these two others, and yet she possessed such a strong stance that rose above her stature in spirit. Her very soul was trying to convey the integrity she held in her offer, hoping that she could find some way through the wall the two had erected; a chink in the armor.
''I do wish to have your lands, but I would not be taking them away from you. You still would be able to live in them, lead and protect your people... but you would become a piece of a greater society. Is that a cost you truly could not come to terms with?''
Artist: Bunkertor 1 - Song: Die Fahne Faellt Zuletzt - Word Count: 2135
The murky scent of The Nature Iramasha of Water was what had first gotten the attention of Radioactive. Being that he had an ample affinity for the element of water, for obvious enough reasons, it was not too complex for him to pick up on his partner in crime moments before he arrived on the scene. And although he would not show it on a physical level, there was a sense of relief with him entering this "little gathering" of theirs between The First Quincy. For if The Shark Beast was left to his own devices -- this meeting may have very well been on the boiling edge of an outright war. Without the restraint of a familiar face, a cherished friend or loving family -- The Shinigami had no real sense of restraint. Without the presence of James, the days of The Genocider Giant would have surely returned. Through the corrosion of most of his attachments to this world, he simply had not much to lose outside of this stake in land his forefathers fought to the teeth for.
Nevertheless, for the time being, he'd restrain his temper from exploding. If for the sake of his own people and James. Directing his golden gaze upon the sapphire-eyed Iramasha, Radioactive gave an obligatory nod to his arrival and the words that he spoke. He'd have no clue how close to trouble they were with the loose-canon that Radioactive tended to be acting on his own. Therefore, he'd take in slow breathes to ease the tension within his body and get a grip on himself before he did something reckless. Through the calming waves of water that flowed through Jame's essence from his embodiment, The Shark Beast harmonized on that nature to alieve the troubles of his own soul. Imagining himself being absolved into a cool flow of liquid, he let the ocean that was The Nature Iramasha's origin carry him away to the brisk shores of composure before he was able to speak to him.
"Trouble? Yeah. You could say that. There is trouble afoot and I'm staring it right in the face."
Metaphorically speaking, Radioactive was keeping one eye on James and the other on Nozomi as he spoke with a skeptical tone of voice, but much less gruff than before. In this moment, it would almost seem funny that the two were on such good terms with one another. Or rather, the way their dynamic was structured. James was the brains behind the operation, while Radioactive was the brawns that kept this country running secured. It is why The Shark Beast let him handle the busy-body work of diplomats, while Radioactive handled the warfield to where he was much more suited to.
So, on that note, The Shinigami knew when to keep his own mouth shut and allow for the other party to speak. Keeping an observant eye on James while he spoke towards Nozomi, there was no doubt in his mind that the emotions of The Russian people were a strong one. They had endured many travesties in their years and had a rough place in the world following World War Three. If they weren't isolated from the global community prior to the days of supernatural freaks roaming across the planet in boatloads, they sure was hell were now with the rampant increased in strife throughout the Earth.
Henceforth, it is only natural and right that such a group of people would be skeptical and outright hostile to a foreign force giving them "salvation" when they've stood on their own without much international assistance for so long. They had allies whom they allowed in their borders, of course, but if push came to shove? They fought their own battles and handled most of their nations affairs by themselves. It is what allowed them to keep the sanctity of their country and how they wanted to proceed in the future without being absolved into some deranged woman's fantasy of a utopia.
Despite those grim sentiments, a cracked chuckle escaped The Shark Beast's mouth as James referenced his strength. This wasn't about flexing his muscles, but rather the thought of going toe-to-toe to the edge of oblivion was a rather fond one for him. The mere thought of reaching into that innermost strength within himself left his body glowing in glee. He had spent most of his life in strife, so after awhile, you learn to grow and find comfort in the battlefield. Perhaps on some level he was adverse to her peace talks because of that fact. Most people, in his day at least, fought to the sword and fist for land they dared to invade. It was another reason he left most types of diplomatic policy under James's hands as it was all so -- over him.
"The depths of the primal urge when unhinged and unrestrained is a...tasty thought...to say the least."
That was all Radioactive had to comment aloud on that subject matter. He'd allow him to go on with what he needed to express, understanding that the woman was going to have to need her response to all of their -- animosity. Therefore, he'd give a brief nod of the head to show that he agreed with what James said before turning his sights on the Lone Quincy before him. They weren't about to be duped by any means, and the look he gave her was meant to convey that much. These people would sooner die the plague than receive help from any sort of unwarranted help from an outsider too concerned for their own good.
Regardless of all that, however, he'd listen in and give yet another mild laugh at what the The First Quincy uttered from her mouth. Sure he intent was not to insult the people of Russia, but as the old saying goes: "The road to hell is paved with good intentions". This was the reason Radioactive could not stand to listen to the utter drivel that The Kokuryuteshi leader spewed about world unity, and these same delusions of an utterly peaceful society were the same reason why what Nozomi was saying were falling on deaf ears. No matter how well your desire was, there is nothing good to come of enforcing ones ideal of "harmony" on another.
What's more, there wasn't an ounce of shame in stating the actions that he committed. In fact, he had more respect for her in that moment than hiding behind the guise of such -- political politeness. Those were the brutal facts of this world and there was no two ways of getting around it. Even if it were ancient history to most in the globe now, for this supposed "Mother of The Quincy" there was bound to be some conflict on an internal level about that affair. So with enmity being the gateway to genuine thoughts, Radioactive nodded his head to agree with what she said.
[PLEASE CHANGE THE MUSIC HERE]
"The rhetoric that you speak reminds me of the same ideal of Hitler in his day. Your intentions, provided this isn't a mask to your true self, may be good; but yours actions do not match up or will be accepted with such a warm and loving greeting. It is much of the reason my people, in the time of my human life, spoke with the sword." Holding his head high, Radioactive stuck to his guns in this instance of his speech. However, there was a look in his eyes that made it appear as if he were further suspicious of the woman. Eyes never moving from the woman's lips as they curled into that cold smile, that eureka moment was found in The Quincy's demanior.
"And from that sword...is honesty in its purest form. That form...is primal anger. Of course not all anger is going to result in grand-scale genocide; or there would be none of us left to fight another day and grow from it. So as much as I am accustomed to...war...I'd not advocate that type of world-ending rage." Taking his own pause, The Nuclear Beast, for but a few moments, seemed to be in his own daze. Having a point of introspection, it had been the first time in eons since he had expressed any sort of -- philosophy -- in one way or the other. So this was a rather new experience for him, but one that could only be achieved with the serenity of another as he took a quick glimpse at James before turning back to Nozomi in her silence.
"Fury, discontent, hated, annoyance, anger, temper, skepticism; all of these and other more...complex words and sayings...describe the unleashing of emotions where a person holds nothing to hide."
Taking in a deep breath to pause himself once more, this area of critical thinking was uncomfortable for him. This -- resistance -- was shown in his breaks of speech. However, all of this was a road he needed to travel on to get his point across. He'd much rather just plow his way with his fist through a God than bare anymore of these -- uneasy -- feelings.
"So what we've got to fear...is those who smile."
At that moment, the whirling winds of the frigid lands around them could be heard silencing on the dotted line when those words were uttered. Gazing upon Nozomi's eyes with the utmost of intent, that was the thing that made The Russian's of the Modern day -- concerned.
"You let them in...and greater damage is done....from the inside out."
Letting those words speak for a moment, Radioactive closed his eyes and decided to add in one more line before letting her go on with the statements that The Quincy needed to make.
"That is what you represent and what I will not allow to transpire unless you wish to try and kill me."
With that conviction left out in the air to fester, he'd then learn when to give the other opponent a chance to speak and listen. All the words that rolled out of Nozomi's mouth about looking like a fool, understanding the history of their nation and trying to "empathize" with them were all nothing but blurred and muttered words to him. None of it really mattered in light of that perception of her. For like in repetitions of history, The King was killed not always by the sword, but by the smile of another slipping poison in his drink. Or in reflections from nature itself, many animals that were once great beast could be lured in with the promise of free food and shelter, only to be treated like cattle once they were spoiled enough from the smiles and coo's of their master breeding them for the slaughter.
So as the stream of never ending BULLSHIT flooded out of her mouth, the assurance of "protection", "prosperity" and "evolution" were nothing more than bait to ease a naive prey into the stockyard. And while Russia's security and defenses weren't perfect, they were self-sufficient enough to be considered a world superpower. Therefore, they didn't NEED her meddling because it would lead to their demise sure enough. The country had trust with each others citizens, strength in their military and guidance with their leaders to stand on their own two feet without needing to be babied by some nanny state that Nozomi tried to push on them.
"I am a man who stands on his own merits; relying not on even my own Zanpakutō Spirit for comfort. Much of my people are the same way. Do you expect us to just TRUST you OVER night? If you wish to make a stand with us, then stand not as someone wanting to morph us into sheep, but as an ally. We don't NEED interference in the structure our country as we've managed JUST fine throughout the centuries. Something which is difficult to say for many other native lands of this world in this day and age."
Breathe in, breathe out.
Those were the motions that the dirty haired male needed to ease his own tensions while stating those words.
"Now, if you wish to bleed your heart out to us, do so of your own will. I shall hear them out upon seeing that expression..." Taking note in her change of demeanor, she'd have at least earned that right to receive his undivided attention with her body becoming somewhat more truthful in its -- somberness. "...just remember: your words are sweet, but actions are bitter. You say you wish to not take control of us, but those subtle methods behind your madness speak otherwise. Utopia's always come with a price and that price is becoming nothing more than cattle. And unfortunately for you, that is a price I am not willing to accept."
JJ
Rower of Rock. And Souls.
Joined : 2011-03-03 Posts : 5174 Age : 27 Location : , Location, Location!
...Really… she's being far too polite. Acting like that would only make someone like the Shark Beast more disinclined… he hates deception more than anything else, even if it's only holding yourself back… The male thought to himself as he laid out on the wave, taking out a pure-blue shaped apple and biting sparingly into it, chewing on it as he watched the confrontation.
And he could feel it. He could feel the wave from within her; the wave of ambition. It was that more than anything else that gave him pause as he continued to chew, the blue-haired male's right eye still closed as small tendrils of water began to rise up around him, spinning in slow circles. ...The biggest problem is… she's not offering them anything they don't already have… or want… She's missing an essential facet of bartering. Your buyer MUST have desire for your product in order for you to sell it… anything else is tyranny. Or communism, I guess. The six-thousand odd year old man thought to himself as he remembered the past, before smiling and swallowing.
It was then that he smiled at her, finally opening that pure-red, slash marked eye. "Ha… You really thought I was Russian for a second there, didn't you. Sorry to disappoint; I'm a Jew." The male expressed as he stood up straight, that smile still on his face as he totally hid his intentions and beliefs behind a thick veil, having totally and completely replaced the façade he had briefly displayed to Nozomi, changing as easily as the flow of water as he relaxed back into a standing position, the earring on his left ear jangling about as he looked her in the eyes, listening to what she had to say.
"And do you know either of our histories? Apparently not." The male bit back.. .surprisingly fiercely. It was no surprise. If Nozomi had any idea of the history of the male, it was one fraught with tragedy due to other's being afraid of him. However, in his case, he wasn't seeking a deal, but only acceptance… but he was denied to exist. "Know your history…" The male muttered as he closed his eyes, sitting back in a chair that formed in the air out of ice, one leg crossing over the other.
… The male was overall deciding to refrain judgment when it came to this discussion. The simple fact was that James' position was more like an advisor and an ally that Radio could depend on at any time. However, there was something more than that. This man had dealt with politics all six thousand years of his life, and he was no stranger to their functions. Indeed, he had refused to even lead his own branch of the Nature Iramasha within Iriamasha Island.
"…" The male was totally silent as he just stared at Nozomi, with a totally blank look on his face. ...Russia grows on the power of hardship. That's what's given it strength in the past. Taking that away… that'd be the same as killing Russia. … Utopia is a lie for this reason; no strong person can exist where hardship is not present… The male thought sadly to himself as his eyes reflected that sadness as he looked upon Nozomi and her dreamland.
"Just stay calm, my friend. She isn't the type to harm innocents." The male spoke reassuringly to Radioactive, as even he could read that aura around Nozomi. She genuinely didn't wish pain upon people in general; but she would do whatever she had to when it came to it. That was what impression the Nature Iramasha had gotten from her, in any case, and he reckoned himself a decent judge of character.
James was only partly looking at Nozomi; he was also watching Radio. Watching the way the male glanced at him, it dawned on him how much trust the male had for him, and he blinked, pleasantly surprised despite himself. It reminded him of Moonie, more than anything; how honest they were with their emotions and feelings, and how when they trusted someone, they did their absolute best because of that same honesty. ...Maybe not attractive men… but noble, truly noble… huh… The male sighed within himself as he listened to the Shark Beast's further statements.
...In other words, the polite ones… James thought, sadly but genuinely, to himself as a riding crop made of flowing ice appeared in his hands, twiddling it between his fingers as he absorbed himself slightly within his thoughts. And James could feel it, just as he had thought earlier. The rising reaction from him. The Nuclear Source of Russia was being tilted towards instability, but James did not believe it would quite lead to meltdown.
"Here. Munch and breathe. It'll help with the stress." The Iramasha muttered, but knew Radio could hear him well enough, as a pair of ice cubes appeared in his hands, tossing them to Radio. Even against the Shark Beast's teeth they would take a good ten seconds or so to be grounded into powder, and the cool flow of totally pure water which flowed out of them would most likely literally cool the male's head. James hoped it would help him relax. After all, only in times of calm could one accurately perceive the world, and the male didn't want the Shark Beast to feel distracted by the very fact that his emotions were rising.
Ïf I may."
James stated simply as his body rose up again, his body slowly sliding as a trail of ice was left in his wake, the Nature Iramasha sliding in between the two of them as he looked eye to eye with Nozomi, his mismatched eyes staring directly into her pure-red ones, before smiling. A true, honest, unyielding smile. "I know you must have thought about this a hundred times by now, so what is your created answer to this question? I'd be glad to hear it." The male stated, as he looked down at his left hand, forming the petite limb into a fist like a flower closing its bloom as he raised it into the air, still not breaking her gaze with her.
"How do you expect for people to grow strong without suffering? A utopia as you describe cannot allow suffering, and yet without it beings are literally nothing but sheep. What will keep it from being fake? And most importantly, why are you so desperately trying to cause us to enter a conflict?"
The male asked her directly as the fist opened up, the smile leaving his face as the crop in his other hand extended into a staff, his right hand being placed on the ground as he slowly breathed in and out, a white mist appearing from his mouth, though not enough to remain for longer than a few seconds. "You possess the knowledge. You know what this will likely lead to. What are you going to do to try to push your agenda into us, when we are directly opposed to the concept of Utopia? We are not against you. We do not judge you simply because you are an outsider, and not because you are offering us a deal. We would cease to be within Utopia. There is no possible way you reached your pinnacle without struggling, in a utopia. Nothing can exist but endless ranks of sheep within a Utopia… and those who attempt to defy the Utopia will be crushed by it just as easily." The male said, his voice sad, but it was true as he turned around to look at Radioactive with a small smile.
"But I wonder if you are prepared to fight the single most powerful being currently residing on the face of this planet, while totally surrounded by the element he is most powerful in. Or, enraging that concept to have him come after you… Haha." He laughed, before turning his gaze back to her, that calm expression still on his face as the staff was held down at his side, his stance unguarded.
"You want our stories? You would pay as much attention to them as we do towards your dystopia. Do you know what you ask? Surely you do, but you asked it anyway." The male stated, his teeth suddenly gritting as he asked her if she knew what she did, the staff growing three prongs and breaking apart into a thousand pieces as he gripped it to hard, his expression suddenly becoming like stone, almost… frightening.
"A Jew, living in Egypt. Cast out from his people for being different. Attempted to ascend to where he belonged, among the Iramasha. Was brutally denied, sent back to earth, was told HE DID NOT EXIST by a place exactly like what you describe… but at least without the hypocrisy to call itself perfect. Suffering, seeing the suffering so many of his kind without being able to offer them a home, only able to try to alleviate their suffering the best he could. Finally forcing them to recognize that they exist. Effort and hardship wrought that Christmas Day two years ago, and it would have been worth nowhere near as much if they had simply allowed us in. I never would have found the others. I never would have sought them. That would have been the end, and they would STILL be suffering."
He finally finished, before dropping his arms to his sides once again, losing that spirit and becoming totally calm once more, before looking up and looking her in the eyes. "I replied honestly to your request, so you must respond to ours or this talk is over. What are you going to do when your exact offer is not accepted? What exactly are you going to do? Will you offer a compromise, are you even willing to compromise? OR will you try something on us, some form of assault. We can clearly see yoru desire is for this land, and to hold dominion and influence of it in order to increase your own position. Your intentions, they may be good or evil… but the simple fact is anything that easy in this life… I cannot see as worth doing. There's no satisfaction… and satisfaction is the only reason we draw breath, isn't it, Radio?"
The man asked, suddenly turning around to the Shark Beast as his body continued to slide, going behind Nozomi now as he looked out upon the ocean, even listlessly. "...Russia is a haven for those who wish to avoid a large influence consuming them. On this barren Earth, it is a bastion of hope and defiance. It refuses to yield to the demons at its side or the corruption below. And how is it able to do that? By knowing it is in danger. Danger response… that is what has made Russia strong. You don't want that strength… you only want the land and status. And that… that is what sickens Radio to his core, and saddens me. Because that is not the power of this land, these people, their meaning. If we are dissolved into your union, with you outright in charge, we lose that purpose of being strong, of what causes our strength. Without that strength, we will be consumed, by the corruptors or demons.
The biggest problem with your argument is that you demand the status and influence to do what you will with our land at your leisure. Haha… Russia has want of nothing. That's what makes it unique, and that's why it makes me so sad that you're here. You want us, period. And this si what you came up with in order to get it. I fully believe you would do it, to. But the simple fact is… we don't, nay, can't want what you're selling. I could debate this with you all day, but I think I've made my points. Which is why I asked what you will do as you know this will not work. I so dearly do not wish for this to end in combat, or to cause the unneeded sufferings of others, so here's a question you don't need to answer. Why do you actually want to do this? What are you trying to get that would require you to have a massive amount of land instead of a powerful ally? What is it you're hoping to accomplish? I believe your raw intellect may far surpass my mere mortal ones, and… that's why I hope you can explain a good reason why. I hope there is a good reason. Because I can't think of one, and the fact that you did not start talking with us by expressing what you actually want is what is making Radio's stomach do summersaults and making me so sad."
The male finally finished as he closed his eyes, chuckling to himself as he did so. The chuckle changed into a full-blown laugh as he reached a hand onto his face, his head looking upwards as he turned half-way around, looking at Nozomi with his red eye which peeked through his hair as he spoke, still laughing. "Your dream of peace , if that is your intention, you knew was going to require war of some kind in order to accomplish, and you STILL put this up for us? Yahweh… did you ever intend for such a cursed being to exist, for this meeting to happen? Or is chaos to blame, the things which… should not exist… staring us in the face…" The male was in tears as the water flowed down his face, before is knees slightly began to buckle.
"Oh, Lord in heaven… what is wrought here…?' The male muttered as he stared at the ground. "Unless ambition is abandoned… more will suffer.. Or… ambition is changed…?" He asked at last as he straightened himsel, before suddenly flopping back onto his back, staring up at the sky.
[i]Man I'm tired now… you try standing between two stupidly powerful beings or that long and not eel like your nerves are shot…! The male thought in second person as he panted slightly, before sitting up again, watching whatever was about to occur, his thoughts revealing the true reasons between his erratic actions.
Believe nothing, no matter where you read it or who has said it, not even if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. - Buddha
Dexterity
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Artist: Two Steps From Hell - Song: Fountain of Life
Nozomi stood there just taking it all in, and it was a beating; a barrage of blows that all intended to make their current stance incredibly clear to her. But... hardened she was to such stubbornness, she did not give ground and she did not allow her attempts to be swayed. She was more than just a polite ambassador, and so she would find her way through one way or another, no matter the wall of denial these few tried to put up. It was reaffirming to know that these two were not the only one with opinions. In a way, she had a great deal of people within this country on her side merely because of their discontent. The poor, the homeless, the bitter; Nozomi had the capability to put each and every single one into a mansion by building them all with her bare hands. She had methods to drastically improve the wealth of the country and give it an energy infrastructure of dreams. This has already been put into place in the country Sou Yuuki had destroyed—Nozomi had rebuilt the nation in Eldrazi's vision, with cities that scraped the skies, shining in the sun and sparkling in the rain. She had produced the beginnings of her utopia overnight, by herself, bigger, better, and faster than any architect could have hoped for. While many died in the advent of Sou's monstrous deed, those who survived had the wealth of kings. News would not have spread fast enough for it to reach the common ears of Russia yet, but no doubt they dreamed of such things.
For those who were already at the top, taking the leadership roles and no doubt receiving a grand deal of wealth, such things were less important. Living from day to day was not truly an issue they had to deal with, like those who scrambled around in metal garbage cans for the daily meal. They had the liberty to possess ideals, and beliefs, and to deny the promise of utopia. They thought that there were strings attached, clinging to their bitter pasts each their own. This prevented them from believing someone who is truly trying to be as blunt as possible, with no uncertain terms and nothing to hide. It was more annoying than anything, though Nozomi meant no disrespect. It was just quite the hassle to play the game of trust with them before they could truly negotiate anything. These were the Quincy's thoughts throughout Radioactive's spat, equating her to something so lowly as a virus. It was truly insulting the way he was dealing with this entire situation, without a respect in the world. He was seriously growing hostile towards her because she was being kind. By all means, Nozomi intended to earn their trust, but it required cooperation between two sides, which truly shouldn't have been as hard as Radioactive was trying to make it. She had never wronged him.
And then Nozomi sensed it, the shift in the other male's body, the one named James. Where Radio remained firm and tense, the feelings of resentment welling up deep within because he continued to re-imagine the past he hated; James broke out of that and focused his attention on the present, making the first move to truly communicate with her and address the issues. Nozomi turned infinitesimally toward him as he took the lead from the shark, showing him that she was listening. As she listened to him begin to pose his questions and his arguments against utopia, she nodded as each of them represented a point she already had a counter-argument for. He was right, she had thought about this long and hard, and she had the answers. But what it started to come down to was that James had a different definition of utopia than Nozomi herself did. In fact, Radio, and everyone else probably had different views on what a utopia was as well, which was probably one of the many factors that went into past failures. James would inquire why she kept trying even though they were so vehemently against a utopian society, and the reason was because they had already judged her agenda before she had gotten to display it to them. "Utopia" was a buzz word, and when it was uttered, common misconceptions arose in the mind. The issue, as it seemed to continue to be, was that the two sides misunderstood each other.
But she did not speak, because, he offered to tell her his story. Where Radioactive had tried his hardest to stiff-arm her away without hesitation, James took a step forward and displayed a willingness to work with her. That is why her ears perked up and she allowed him to keep the spotlight on himself. He spoke of his hardships with great emotion, giving her a small glimpse into his past, though not the whole story. She would hear more, honestly, his entire story. She would open the bond between them just to allow him to tell of his history without the foul limitations of simple words. He was an Iramasha exile who wished to end the suffering of the very kind of people who rejected him. The very fact that she could summarize all that he told him in one line though was a grave injustice, and she did wish for more, but was not so greedy. And so after that brief moment of opening up, he returned to his defensive stance and started to block her out again with arguments and misguided beliefs. He started to become cold and distant again like his companion Radioactive, but Nozomi did not back down. She took a step forward and placed her palm on the young man's cheek with a touch more gentle than the brush of wind. Her eyes locked with his and she pushed forth her consciousness to establish a mental link with him.
James was suddenly brought into the world of Nozomi's mind, vaster than any intellect that he'd surely ever seen;there was no edge to be seen nor sensed. It was a great space roiling with the colors of though, taking no shape in particular just yet. But then, a new world would form around him from the many wisps of thought. He would be able to watch as Nozomi's cities of silver and gold were erected in place of the bitter lands of Russia, creating a land that sparkled. Among the glorious structures and the chilly snow were things that Russia was not accustomed to seeing too much of: green grass fields and lush gardens, parks and fountains. It was more than just a sight too—James would be able to feel the cool breeze and breathe in fresh clean air. People were walking about and enjoying themselves as they would, with not a single downtrodden expression to be seen. One could tell from the quality of their clothes, for each and every one of them, that they were all well off. This was as you would expect to see in a utopia but Nozomi had much more to show him than this. She would answer his questions through the rich canvas of thought, not lifeless words.
There were many ways she could respond to his questions. For example, he asked how people would grow strong without hardship, and believed that the people of a utopia could not be anything than mindless sheep. So, she would show him the lives of these people—she would take him from person to person and display how each one had their own identity and their own challenges. He would be able to see the extensive knowledge that she had of these people, and the unique solutions she provided for everyone individually. A boy who possessed untapped spiritual power would be sent to a school built specifically for him, the Hephaestus Academy where not only would their talents be improved and perfected, but it would be a place where they could let their powers loose without risk due to the systems of the school. When that boy grew up to be a man, there would be jobs open where he could use such abilities for the betterment of the nation, which he could take if he wished, but he did not need to. The option would always be there, however. Then next James would be shown a female who dreamt of being 'famous' every night. A typical fantasy, one would presume, but with one difference. This time, the pleas would be heard because the nation of Eldrazi cared about each individual. There would be people who would tend to her and assist her, helping her become what she desires. And eventually she would develop into a woman that other little girls wished to be... and each of those girls would receive the same treatment.
Every soul Nozomi showed him was unique and had its own desires; each one would propose yet one more solution to answer his worries. In the span of a few milliseconds, the Quincy would be able to show the man thousands of different lives and how Eldrazi would tend to them individually. And yet, millions of people still seemed to have their stories untold to James—she would not make him suffer through all that. These... these people, whether he realized it or not, were actually each a citizen of Russia, that Nozomi had watched and listened to in her ventures of life. She had the tools at her disposal to listen to their stories as she had listened to James', and then find what was most fitting for that person. If a problem arose, then Nozomi would create the solution herself, from nothing. She would dispel his belief of requiring hardship in order to advance—she wanted to change the world and develop a new way of advancing society. She would develop a way to hand-tailor challenges to any person who so wished to be challenged, so that through success, they could achieve what any other man or woman could through hardship. Utopia was not something that could be defined in any one notion: people were not mindless sheep, and they would not grow to become weak.
''A utopia is a place where everyone's dreams can come true. It is not solely defined as a place where only peace can exist. It is not solely defined as a place where everything is handed down to you. It is not solely defined as a place of wealth. You're right, I have done a lot of thinking on this subject and how I will carry out, so much that I cannot show you everything without hurting your mind in the process... I do not expect you to do as much thinking as I have, but I at least wish for you to understand, rather than label it without context.'' Her voice rang inside of his head like a series of chimes, beautiful and melodic, before the mental link would be broken. James was thrust back into reality where Nozomi would appear to not have moved at all. She was standing away from the two with her arms at her sides, and not a second had passed since he had finished speaking. It was a simple feat of Nozomi's mental prowess to show him what would take months of explanation within the matter of a second. Radioactive would be quite excluded, unaware to what exactly had transpired between the two in the short instant. From his point of view, it would seem as if nothing had happened at all.
Nozomi stared at James in silence for a moment, as no doubt it would take a while for all that information to sink in. Then, she turned back to the hulking shark man once more. ''I will not fight you, Radioactive, nor your companion, but it is quite clear that words will not help me. For what can I prove with words? They're just random sounds that come out of my mouth and hold no promises for the future. Then let me show you what a utopia can be. I do not ask for control of your lands immediately... but I can build.'' She held up her hands and looked at them, before enclosing them into fists. She had the power to build what her mind envisioned with ease, she knew. She had done it for India, and she would do it here too. ''Let me build grand cities and incredible estates for the people of your country. Let me give every single person in these lands a mansion to call their home. Let me build a great wall around the country so that you can have your isolation if you so wish it. Let me put an energy grid into place that can power the entire country one thousand times over. I am offering you this for free, with no drawbacks whatsoever. I would merely be improving your infrastructure and nothing more, so that I may give you a mere glimpse into my vision. I don't know how I could possibly make the choice easier for you...''
The only thing that stood between a bitter, frozen region and the utopia of dreams... was a stubborn shark with a thick head. It was actually quite infuriating.
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DexterityWaifu War Veteran![Sales Pitch of the Century [Private, Nozomi, Radio, James] Left_bar_bleue](https://2img.net/i/fa/i/left_bar_bleue.jpg)
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Sales Pitch of the Century [Private, Nozomi, Radio, James]
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