Private The View From Up Here

[Kimiko Taiyou]

She figured she had time for a swim, in a private pool, who didn't?

Everything looked so small from up here: her planet, her people, all of it. From the overhanging infinity pool's waterfall, she observed hundreds, if not thousands, of her subjects. They were going about their time aboard this newest creation of hers. It was grand, in every sense of the word, and she was going to take advantage of it. Mari had ensured her personal suite included all the luxuries after all.

Even though today was the inaugural opening of the station and it's many comfort amenities, she had also invited another today. They were to discuss political matters unfortunately, but these were the times they found themselves in.

She heaved a heavy sigh and pushed herself off the wall and lazily floated on her back.

One of her attendants entered and presented her message,"Your Grace, your guest has arrived." she bowed and allowed Ki to respond, still floating listlessly in the water,"Very good Toku, see him in. Also, bring up two bottles of the Hoshizora Red, on ice, and two glasses, would ya?" she smiled at the attending Kitsune who excused herself to her tasks.

Ki took a breath and submerged herself in the cool water, waiting for her guest...

Enlil

 

[Enlil]

He never did anything in half measures.

Though the King had not ruled over a civilization in many years, he never strayed from his regal upbringing. An invitation from a diplomat of any kind was occasion to show decadence and nothing less than his finest gifts, best behavior, and a hint of charm.

That a woman had sent tidings meant he had to be expressly aware. Not since long ago had he thought about such things, and now, he was certain that the way to conduct himself was far different. He would watch, listen, learn, and wait for cues. The time to be wholly dominant, in spirit and in speech, came after the lighthearted meetings.

Enlil in truth did not know what this Empress even wanted from him. That was largely why he erred on the side of diplomacy. Show little, gain much.

He carried the bottle of Nabeen sweet wine between two fingers, carefully clamping the underside of its lip with his thumb. His free hand raised in greeting when the attendant appeared and ushered him forward. He gave his thanks, then followed.

When they finally entered the pool area, it appeared the lady of the Skyhook had drinks prepared. Enlil offered his gift to the attendant. "Lady Kimiko, I come bearing wine from the Lake Country vineyards of Naboo. I regret it is not the vintage of my homeland, but it is passably enjoyable, despite its sweet demeamor."

Kimiko Taiyou

 

[Kimiko Taiyou]

By the time she had surfaced, she had another visitor, this time a familiar face presented himself and she offered a warm smile. Wading to the edge, she propped herself up on the marbled deck top and gently grasped one of the prepared glasses.

Her hand raised in toast to the offering he brought, motioning to add it to the iced bucket.

"Ah, such a sweet gift Dear Enlil, thank you. Perhaps we may indulge in it's flavor today as we converse. But, please, make yourself at home." she sipped on the glass she held, twirling the deep crimson liquid and studying it,"This is an older cask from the Hoshizora vineyards from the planet below. Sweet as well, with a tart after taste. Each of the clans distills their own spirits, each one a beautiful representation of the family from which brewed it. Something quite interesting I have discovered." she placed the fluted glass down before lifting herself out of the pool, begrudgingly.

She wrung out her fur, head and tails as she spoke,"I do thank you for coming with such short notice. We have much to discuss, the future of the Outer Rim might be at stake." she looked at him with a fiery seriousness...

Enlil

 

[Enlil]

"You aren't wrong about that," Enlil admitted sourly. The past few weeks had been spent slaving over paperwork and watching as faith in the Outer Rim Judges quickly bled out. Things were descending into pure chaos and he had no authority to bring the pieces together.

It was frustrating. When he was King, he could give an order and create structure. Now there were people in the way, forms to fill out, and mountains to climb.

He folded his arms and looked the woman over thoughtfully. An Empress- that wasn't unlike a Queen. She too understood the burden of responsibility. "Thank you for your hospitality," headded after a moment of silence. What sort of words were proper for this situation? "Things have gotten complicated. The planets in the Outer Rim used to accept the jurisdiction of the Judges on principle, given the long standing repute of the Coalition... but its come to the point where people got jaded.

There's no more relying on past accolades, and to put it bluntly, I'm having one hell of a time trying to get people to put faith in the organization at all."

Kimiko Taiyou