"Oh, that's strange," Shika replied politely. In truth, he wasn't surprised at all. Someone of Shimizu-taisho's stature would have little time to spend on a lowly santô hei. "I'll forward Shimizu-taisho's orders to you now, ma'am."
Shika quickly relayed the relevant message with a series of deft presses on his Type 29, then promptly propped his communicator in the crook of his neck. With his now-free hand, he picked up his volleyball and threaded his way towards the station proper.
//S. Encryption//
//....//
//Active//
To: Santô Hei Akechi Shika
1. You are ordered to report to the Pisces, for an interview at her highness' earliest convenience.
2. Fleet Aide Hakumei Honoka will be your point of contact during conference deliberations. Look for her upon your arrival.
Signed,
Princess Taisho Shimizu Akina
Shika barely avoided a Azorean diplomatic aide and a Yamataian Star Army liaison in heated conversation as he valiantly juggled his various personal effects.
"Uh, I have no clue where things are on this station, and I have my hands literally full, ma'am," Shika answered honestly. "Do you have any-"
The young operator turned a corner, whereupon his eyes were immediately drawn to a harried-looking warrant officer. She held a communicator to her ear, and she appeared to be listening to a person on the line.
"Uh, actually, I think I see you, Hakumei-juni." Shika waved energetically. "You have green hair and blue eyes, yes?"
He deliberately omitted mentioning how tired she looked. Shika presumed it probably wouldn't have done him any good. Instead the starship operator tried for a wan smile and ambled towards the warrant officer with all the confidence he could muster. Shika wished he could tug at his uniform and neaten his collar, but his arms were too busy juggling his belongings to even brush at stray strands of his fringe.