Semester Break In The City(Jiang)

[Zafir Soliman]

The two friends sat on the plane that left sunny Rio de Janeiro for the island nation of Genosha. They were heading for Hammer Bay the capital city of the island. Zafir had heard of it and wanted to visit. Adhmar on the other hand wasn't too keen on traveling to the island. They were on semester break from school and boy were they happy. They both were a bit home sick so they decided to travel to Adhmar's family villa. They were okay with their son being a mutant so it was no big deal for him to be home. Zafir on the other couldn't go running back home to his family with arms wide open. They had all but disowned him.

The two teens were enjoying their time in Brazil with Adhmar's family when Zafir basically begged him to go to Genosha. They spoke with Adhmar's parents and they thought it was a good idea. Adhmar had a bad feeling about it. He had heard a lot of things about the nation and most of them weren't good. Aside from the beauty of the island there wasn't much else positive for him to say. He grudgingly agreed to go, that is what best friends did right? They would stick by their friends no matter what they felt about the situation.

The two boarded the large jet and got cozy in first class for their 29 hour flight. Adhmar couldn't believe they were going to the nation. What if they got caught up in some civil unrest over there? What if all out war broke out? That was all they needed. The teachers at the school always told them to be aware of their surroundings. Adhamr would definitely keep his eyes and ears open once they landed in the mutant paradise. Zafir nudged his best friend and said, "Come on A.D. don't worry so much...I promise this will be fun. We will be back in your precious Brazil safe and sound...besides we will only be here a week...What can go wrong in a week?" Adhmar turned to him and said, "A LOT...now shut up and go to sleep...this is going to be a long enough flight." Zafir laughed as his friend reclined his seat to go sleep as long as possible for this flight.

Before they knew it the sound of the flight attendants voice woke them. They were landing in Genosha. Both teens looked outside of the window to see the crystal blue water and the large buildings that surrounded the capital. Adhmar himself had to admit that it was breathtaking. Maybe things wouldn't turn out so bad after all? As they exited the plane they were greeted by a driver that took them to their luxurious hotel. They were placed in one of the penthouse suites. Two teens in a foreign country for an entire week of adult free supervision? HOW GREAT WOULD THAT BE?!?!! The two laughed in joy once the bellman left them in the spacious penthouse. Adhmar turned to Zafir and said, "Okay bro...I am going to take a nap...Wake me up when you're ready to go out tonight?" Zafir nodded and said, "Yeah...I will" Too excited to go to sleep himself Zafir to leave the hotel and take in the city...

[Jiang Mei]

Jiang Mei had a long day ahead of him. Although the process of replicating the Tanks’ neural enhancements was going well ahead of schedule, they honestly couldn’t get it done fast enough. He’d been screening candidates for the first trials all morning, and had finally decided on ten. He’d had a secretary notify them, and…was then interrupted by Magneto himself, asking for something trivial that would undoubtedly take far more of his time than he needed. He was to babysit. It appeared that the X-Men had let some of their students loose, and he was to make sure they didn’t cause an international incident. Jiang had miled, accepted the task, and quietly wondered what the hell he did to deserver this kind of punishment.

They were students. Students. The worst trouble they were likely to get into would involve getting thrown out of a bar. Even if keeping an eye on them was absolutely critical, couldn’t it have been handled by someone less important? Jiang was busy with that other vital project that Magneto had placed him on. The one that was on a set time limit and had far greater consequences than…teenagers being teenagers. But, as much as he’d like to, he wouldn’t question the orders. He was ahead of schedule on the other project, after all, and getting out to enjoy the sun would be a welcome break. If only chaperoning wasn’t included.

As he drove to the hotel, Jiang came up with an excuse for why he needed to talk to the boys. It wouldn’t buy him too much time with them, but it would serve for an introduction. After that, he would offer to give them a tour, maybe take them to dinner…he hadn’t met a teenage boy yet that wasn’t a fan of eating. Making friends would get him farther than some flimsy excuse, no matter what he chose. Besides, they were young and presumably gullible. It wouldn’t be rocket science. Not to say, of course, that he wasn’t capable in that field, as well.

Jiang had just found a parking spot, and was headed towards the purported hotel when he saw one of the boys he was looking for. Zafir Soliman. But where was his friend? No matter; he’d find out soon enough. “Mr. Soliman!” he called out, making his way over at a brisk walk. “Welcome to Genosha. Might I trouble you for a few minutes?” He held up his hands disarmingly, and gave the boy his most charming smile. “Nothing to be worried about. I promise.”

[Zafir Soliman]

Entering the spacious lobby Zafir's mind started to race. Where would he go first? It was so many things to do. Where would he go first? To look at the options for shopping or food? It was such a hard choice but he decided to follow his stomach. He was on his way out of the door when a man called out his name. Looking around nervous Zafir looked for the source of the voice. He didn't know anyone here, not that he knew of, and he couldn't understand who would know he was here. Did he have a stalker? He chuckled to himself for a moment thinking of how cool it would be to say he had a stalker.

Continuing to walk he found himself face to face to the source who had called him. He told him not to fear anything and that he would bring no harm to him. Going based off of his instincts he went on guard. He backed up a bit because he didn't know this man in the slightest.It could have been one of Shou's old associates looking to avenge the death of their fallen friend. The man was a rather handsome man and in good shape. He was dressed nicely and he did wear a smile on his face. Zafir's instincts were telling him that the man wasn't all he seemed to be. Something else was going on. Looking him up and down Zafir stepped back some more. He wanted to keep the space between them.

Zafir looked at the man in his dark brown eyes with his green ones and said nervously, "How do you know my name? Who are you? What do you want? How did you know I just arrived here?" Zafir wanted answers to these questions and fast. If he didn't get them quick enough he definitely would bolt. He wasn't here to get caught up in his past or in any ridiculous schemes. He was here simply to enjoy time away from school...

[Jiang Mei]

The boy spun around as Jiang called his name, confirming his identity. Good; tracking him down had been fairly easy. His alarm was evident, but that was only to be expected. He probably thought that his arrival had gone unnoticed. Now he would just need to convince the boy that he needed a personal tour guide to Genosha. If Jiang managed to complete that hurdle successfully, he could look forward to a week of babysitting. He could hardly wait.

Silly boy, jumping to the conclusion that he was in trouble. That was exactly what Jiang was trying to avoid. Soliman’s instincts would set things back momentarily, but it was hardly a roadblock. “I really should have introduced myself first,” he replied, looking slightly sheepish. This he could work with. Let the boy believe he was just a little socially awkward. For most people, awkward translated into harmless. That was almost certainly a good impression to maintain. “I’m Jiang Mei, the United States ambassador to Genosha. Being alerted about any visitors from home is one of the perks of the position.” It was almost true. He did know about Zafir and Adhmar’s arrivals from…something that had come out of his job. Mentioning the Brotherhood would be the worst kind of faux pas, though.

“But it’s hardly anything official. In my spare time I’m also a writer, and I’m currently working on a collection of accounts from mutants around the world. It will help bring notice to prejudices in unlikely places. When I heard there would be a few students from the Xavier Institute coming here, I couldn’t resist asking for an interview. I’m sorry if I alarmed you.” Jiang smiled again, seemingly oblivious to the boy’s discomfort. Internally, he was hoping that the boy would relax a little and go along with the excuse. It would make the next week far easier.

[Zafir Soliman]

Zafir listened to the elder male in front of him. He was telling of things he liked to do in his spare time but Zafir had all but zoned out in typical teen fashion. He was on semester break and the last thing he wanted to do was be bored to death by presentations. He gave the male a once over and made a personal note that the guy was a bit attractive. Trying to snag a date was the last thing on his mind though. His desire for food was much higher up on his priority list. The food from the flight was all but gone now.

Zafir nodded his head to give some sort of a sign that he was paying attention. He thought to himself, **Okay...when is he going to be quiet.** Zafir had a notoriously short attention span for things he had no interest in. He said to Jiang, "Okay...Mr. Ambassador sir, can you tell me where a young guy like me can get a bit to eat? I am starving. The fed us on the flight over but...you were a teen boy once...You know the food goes kind of fast. Also it has to be halal and no pork. Preferably somewhere that has really good chicken dishes. " Zafir was a rather picky individual when it came to his food. He didn't want to anything in his body that may taint it.

The Algerian teen may not agree with everything his religion says for him to follow but the food stands he follows strictly. He was adamant that what one ate would determine how well their body reacted. He was in extremely great shape and enjoyed eating healthy overall. There were days when his sweet tooth got the better of him. It seemed that right now his thoughts were trying to take him elsewhere but he was more focused on the food aspect. Hopefully the "ambassador" would be able to play a good host to him. Too bad his best friend was going to miss out. He was upstairs suffering from jet lag and Zafir was ready to party. Perhaps it was the proximity to the continent of Africa that gave him his extra boost of energy and joy. So close to his family, yet so far away...maybe this was best right now?

[Jiang Mei]

It was painfully obvious that Zafir was barely paying attention, but Jiang hardly minded. He didn't stop talking, either. It would be far more convenient if the teenager assumed that he was a little socially oblivious. He was, after all, posing as a writer. If he began to wonder how Jiang was capable of being a diplomat, he'd just mention the sad truth that no one else was willing to take the position. It didn't matter if the boy listened to him or not, as long as he willing to stay close. Besides, the less that Zafir listened, the less likely it was that he could notice something odd about Jiang's story. Still, he would stick to his cover for now, and play the role of a writer interested in a story. If nothing else, it might get Zafir talking. The boy seemed like the type who would like an interested audience.

Zafir's priorities were amusing, but hardly surprising. He cared more about food than having a tour guide. Jiang was, indeed, familiar with the appetites of teenage boys. It wasn't even all that long ago. Granted, he'd never been one like Zafir, but the ability to eat everything in sight was one with which he was familiar. Yes, getting the boy lunch was a wonderful idea. It would keep him occupied for at least an hour; likely longer. Plenty of time to win him over. He gave the boy another brilliant smile, as if excited by the prospect of being able to show him around.

“Please, call me Jiang. No need for 'sir' right now. I think I know just the place. Do you like Turkish?” he asked. It wasn't too far from the hotel; perhaps a five-minute walk. One of Genosha's many benefits was its almost-mandatory ethnic diversity; it was one of the few places in the world where mutants could be at peace. Jiang had only been in the place he had in mind once before, but the food was wonderful, atmosphere was friendly, and the service was exceptionally slow. It would consume a good deal of time.

[Zafir Soliman]

Zafir listened to the man insisting that he call him "Jiang." Perhaps he wasn't as old as Zafir initially thought. The man didn't look that old but he had this air about him.He seemed to exude this air of extreme confidence and class. Zafir wouldn't say he was snobbish but it was something else....For the moment he would definitely go with "confidence." It was something about him that reminded him of Shou. Perhaps it was cockiness? Jiang had this walk that Zafir also took notice of. He walked with his head held high and never once looking down. The thoughts in his head caused Zafir to smirk for a moment before returning his attention to Jiang.

The young Algerian perked up a bit when he was asked if he liked Turkish. Nodding his head Zafir replied, "I love Turkish. You know just the right things to say do you not? Is it far from here? I hope they have lahmacun. I love that." Zafir could already taste the food in his mouth. He looked back to Jiang once his day dream was finished and smiled sheepishly, "You can lead the way whenever you're ready. My stomach is ready to be filled to the brim..."

[Jiang Mei]

Jiang smiled in response to Zafir's latest round of questions. The prospect of a meal seemed to make the boy warm up considerably. “I'm one of only a handful of baseline humans on the island. Even if I weren't an ambassador, being capable of diplomacy would be a crucial skill,” he replied. Although it wasn't entirely true, there were only a few people in Genosha aware of his abilities. For the most part, he was treated the way any human here was—with a mixture of scorn and apprehension. Some were more tolerant than others, but most of Genosha's residents were here to avoid humans. As long as Jiang retained his cover, he would continue to be an outsider here. Thankfully, the right words and no small amount of charm were very effective in changing opinions.

At Zafir's suggestion, he began strolling down the sidewalk in the right direction. He was in no rush, but it was obvious his companion was. Jiang would make sure he walked slowly enough for Zafir to get in some sightseeing, but quickly enough to satisfy a starving teenager. “It isn't far at all; just a few blocks away. This particular district is known for its food and entertainment; you could say it's the tourist center of the island. Incidentally, it happens to be the only area with many hotels. It would be very easy to spend a week without leaving the city proper, although the undeveloped parts of the island are beautiful.” It seemed like he'd won the position of being a tour guide for a spoiled teenage boy. At least it was still preferable to remote surveillance.

[Zafir Soliman]

Zafir was pleased to hear all about the island. He was the one after all to suggest that they come and take in the island. Zafir wanted to be someplace where everyone was okay with someone else being a mutant. However how would they take to Zafir's other side? He was comfortable in his skin but he still had his own reservations. Zafir looked around taking in the skyscrapers and the hotels. The skyline was breathtaking and it reminded him of Dubai. Their location as they walked granted him a great view of the beach that wasn't too far away. It was a very nice view and he couldn't wait until he could try it out.

As they continued to walk and Zafir's stomach spoke to him as did Jiang Zafir said, "The undeveloped portions of the island sound great...Perhaps you can show me there one day this week? Also...the Muslim and Arab speaking community...Is there a large population here? This Turkish food...it is halal right? If not then we will have to eat elsewhere." Zafir knew that he was jumping around a lot but he was only asking what came to mind. He was excited to finally be in Genosha.

Meanwhile back in the hotel A.D. sat on his knees while he emptied his stomach of all of its contents. He was sick to his stomach literally. Apparently he had a bit of food poisoning or a stomach bug. Either way his trip here to the island would be wasted. He would be confined to the bed for the rest of trip. Jiang would have to entertain his best friend for the trip because he couldn't. Poor Adhmar stuck alone on the beautiful island in the hotel sick. He barely could move from where lay with his head hovering above the toilet rim.

Zafir smiled barely able to contain himself as he walked and looked at all of the locals and tourist. Perhaps this trip wouldn't be so bad? He did have a local to show him around the entire time. What more could he be surprised with?

[Jiang Mei]

All of Zafir's earlier concerns seemed to have disappeared with the offer of food and a tour. Jiang found it hilarious how trusting the boy was, and how quickly he'd gotten over his initial suspicions. And now Zafir was asking if he would continue to show him around later this week. Perhaps this assignment would be easier than he anticipated. “I would be delighted to give you a tour,” he replied, voice full of sincerity that was a complete and utter lie. He would be a terrible politician indeed if he couldn't manage to hold an illusion of truth. And as much as he disliked the thought of chaperoning for a week, being a tour guide was still far more appealing than having to keep the boy detained through some other method.

Zafir's question about the restaurant was laughable, but Jiang gave no indication of his opinion on the teenager's intelligence. Of course it was halal, idiot boy. That was why Jiang had offered that location, instead of any other restaurant in the city. Although it was good, it was hardly the finest dining that the city had to offer. Still, he smiled in response, as if Zafir's question was perfectly reasonable. “It is. The owner himself happens to be very devout; I met him the last time I was there. He also happens to have six arms, which he assures me makes waiting far easier. I'm not inclined to doubt him.”

“You'll find that the population here is very ethnically diverse,” Jiang continued as he walked, filling Zafir in on his other question. “Mutants are prosecuted nearly worldwide, unfortunately, and this is one of the few safe havens for them. A large portion of the population comes from mainland Africa, simply due to the matter of proximity, but you would be hard-pressed to find a country or ethnic group that isn't represented here. I know of several mosques in the city, if you're interested in visiting them.”

[Zafir Soliman]

Zafir was more than pleased to find out that the restaurant was indeed halal. Jiang continued to explain life in Genosha for Zafir. It warmed his heart to know that the island nation of Genosha was so accepting. His heart skipped a beat when he asked if he wanted to visit a few of the mosques. It was more out of nervousness than joy. Zafir's past was starting to come full circle. He definitely couldn't go to a mosque. While devout he opted to pray within his own walls. He couldn't take being in a mosque knowing the life he lived.

Zafir's parents always made sure he was in mosque when growing up but now he made his own choices. He made the choice to live his life outside of the Muslim world and Sharia Law. He wouldn't let those things dictate him. He wanted to be able live his life as he pleased and those things prohibited his behavior. Shou always told him it didn't make him any less of a Muslim. Shaking his head clear of thoughts that would sadden him Zafir spoke and said, "Um...I think we can pass on that for the moment. I don't want any problems."

As they continued to walk Zafir had another idea come to mind...."Jiang...tell me, what is the teen night life like here? I want to go out and have some fun...do you think that would be too much to ask? I am really wanting to party "island paradise style." If it makes any difference money isn't an option for me." It was a little known fact that Zafir had quite the size able bank account. He had made a lo of money working for Jiang and he also inherited money once Shou was killed.

He didn't know that he was the one who stood to inherit all of the money if Shou was to die. There had to be some love there somewhere for him. However, Zafir wasn't rich like Adhmar. His family wasn't wealthy at all. He was now wealthy as a result of a crazy turn in events. Instead of living a lavish life though he used the money to take care of his ill father and his mother. He would even help out his sister and his bigot of a brother in law. He did things that he thought Allah would be proud of. He didn't mind spending money right now because he was in Genosha and he had been wanting to visit for a while. He was ready to live life! At least for the weak that he was in Genosha before reality set back in and he went back to "regular Zafir."

[Jiang Mei]

Interestingly enough, Zafir declined the offer of visiting a mosque. Hmm. Was that a hint of nervousness Jiang saw? Now, why in the world would Zafir be so insistent on eating halal, but not want to visit a mosque? Some issue with organized religion, perhaps? Or something more personal? It was probably unimportant, but Jiang's curiosity was piqued. He had a week to uncover that mystery, though; he wouldn't press the issue right now. Even if he never figured it out, he was fairly certain he could accomplish the task at hand. Instead, he just nodded his understanding and let the subject drop. It seemed like the boy had other interests in mind, anyway.

“Well, the legal drinking age and age of consent here are both eighteen, to start,” Jiang began. The information he had on the boy hadn't included an age, but it was very possible he was old enough to drink. If he was a fairly strict Muslim, however, that wouldn't be an issue either way. “I am not much of a partier myself, but I'm sure I can find a few suitable locations. I know of at least one beachside club that might work nicely.” He'd seen several nightclubs and plenty of bars; many of which catered to younger crowds. Finding a club that served only halal food and drink would be more problematic.

At last, they reached the restaurant that Jiang had promised. The smell alone was promise enough of what was inside; the doner spit visible from the front window only added to the attraction. Jiang held open the door for Zafir, directing him inside before entering himself. Although he hadn't noticed that he was hungry before, the smell of spiced meat was enough to stimulate his appetite. Hopefully Zafir would find it just as enticing.

[Zafir Soliman]

Zafir wasn't the least bit worried about drinking. Partying, yes....Drinking, no. He was a pretty devout Muslim so he didn't drink and wouldn't drink although he no longer resided in a culture that would forbid it. When Jiang mentioned the legal drinking age Zafir barely retained that information. However he was happy to hear that Jiang knew of a nightclub that he would probably enjoy. Zafir was almost ready to say screw the food and let's go party. He thought about it for a moment and the growling of his stomach won out. As his mind went back to his food he noticed that Jiang had stopped and they were standing in front of the Turkish restaurant.

The smells floating in the air caused Zafir's mouth to water. The smells alone were putting his taste buds into overdrive. As Jiang held the door for Zafir and he entered into the restaurant Zafir saw that it was rather cozy and inviting. He said, "Thank you..." as he passed by Jiang. Once completely inside and greeted by the host his sense of smell was assaulted by all of the smells that were mixing in the restaurant. Zafir was ready to eat whatever they put in front of him. Considering Jiang assured him the restaurant was halal he didn't have to worry about pork or anything.

The teen smiled and said, "Thank you" once more but this time to the host who pulled out his chair for him and placed the menu in front of him. The guy returned a warm smile and Zafir couldn't help but blush a bit. Zafir thought the Turkish guy in front of him was "hot." As Jiang walked up the guy stood to the side and pulled out his chair as well but didn't give so much attention to him as he did to Zafir. Looking to see what locals normally went for Zafir asked the host, "Is there anything in particular that you suggest?"

[Jiang Mei]

Jiang followed after Zafir into the restaurant, eyes immediately resting on the grill area near the door. The owner was there, shaving some meat off the doner, but didn't look up from his work as the bell on the door rang. It was likely that he would be over later, however; the last time Jiang had been in, they had a lengthy conversation on a variety of topics. It was always good to know the locals. The restaurant was less crowded today than the last time he was in, which probably increased the odds of a visit from the owner. He was quite...talkative. Jiang figured that Zafir might be interested in meeting their chef.

Taking a seat across from Zafir, Jiang gave a brief glance at the menu in front of him. He'd seen it before, so naturally he'd memorized everything on it, but it never hurt to keep up appearances. The menu hadn't changed since the last time he was here, although the leaflet with specials was new. Hm, perhaps he would go with the roast lamb. The boy sitting across from him asked for a suggestion, and Jiang looked up from his menu contemplatively. Zafir had mentioned that he liked chicken, but, regrettably, he had yet to try most of their dishes containing it. Well, he might as well mention what he personally liked, although he doubted that there was any way to go wrong here; everything he had ordered up to now had been superb.

“Hmm. I usually go with the dolma; both the artichoke and eggplant are both delicious. The owner keeps insisting that I try the chicken manti, they are one of his signature items. The ayran here is also quite good, especially in this heat.” Jiang set down his menu, having decided to cater to their chef's wishes and try the dumplings.

[Zafir Soliman]

Looking over to the waiter as Jiang finished placing his order Zafir smiled and said, "Okay I will have the same. I want a coke to drink though please." Zafir knew he should go for the full experience but he decided against it because he was really wanting a coke. As the waiter walked off to prepare their meals Zafir looked around and commented saying, "I really like the atmosphere. It is very cozy. It seems that it is all family oriented." Zafir didn't really have that feeling with his own family so he had to make it with his friends. He hoped the food would be as good as it was currently smelling. The different spices and aromas were sending his taste buds into overdrive in anticipation.

Not wanting to sit at the table bored while their food and drinks were prepared Zafir decided to strike up a conversation a little deeper with Jiang. "So Jiang...what made you end up here in Genosha? I mean of all the places you could go and right a book on mutant experiences why here? I mean I understand this being the first free mutant nation and no one having to worry about prejudices here but what drew you here? I must say I was just in Brazil with my best friend visiting his family and it wasn't bad there at all. I was actually rather surprised that they were so accepting...I mean I expected to be shunned by most of his family. Algeria on the other hand...they aren't so ready to embrace their mutant brothers and sisters....I know from experience. " After his last sentence Zafir looked down a bit sad as his thoughts rolled back to his family...His father in particular.