Bard Billot on the ubiquitous Mahuta
They call the wind Nanaia
Empress Cindy sits in the cocktail lounge of the Imperial Hot Air Balloon Global Communicator. Far below in the Queendom, delicate puffs of smoke rise from where the Raiders of Ram roam and rampage. Consultant Lady in Waiting Nanaia brushes the empress's long locks. "Where is my regular lady in waiting?" queries the Red Empress. "Your Majesty, we have determined that outsourcing to Taniwha Enterprises is the way to go," replies Business Coach Nanaia from the couch. There is a rap on the door. Personal Assistant Nanaia pops her head in. "Time for Caucus, O Highness," saith she. The Empress sighs; and steps through the crystal doors of her Great Glass Elevator. Balloon Pilot and Elevator Attendant Nanaia salutes, then presses the down to earth button. On reaching the dusty ground, the Empress is greeted by a mighty guard of honour with shining pikes at the doors of the Palace. "Is this for me?" asks the Empress in awe. "No," replies Chancellor of Enterprises Nanaia. "Taniwha Enterprises have just invoiced the Queendom, and these guards are for the gold." Into the palace strideth the Empress, closely shadowed by Cultural Safety Advisor Nanaia, Security Agent Nanaia, Comms Manager Nanaia, DJ Nanaia, IT Guru Nanaia and Personal Shopper Nanaia. The Empress bursts into the Chamber of Council to take her place on the Grand Throne. She looks around. And lo, in each of the dozen seats, sits Nanaia with a pen and paper. "This is most unusual," saith the Empress. "I think I need a cup of tea to settle my nerves." "Earl Grey or gumboot?" asks Tea Lady Nanaia. Victor Billot has previously felt moved to compose Odes for such luminaries as Baron Luxon, Bishop Brian, the Prime Minister, Mike Hosking, and Garrick Tremain.
