Open Galactic Senate Chandrila Assembly of the Galactic Senate

Soygun York

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Consortium
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Governor, Kattada

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As the Secretary of the Treasury of the ISC, an opinion on this matter was likely expected. York nodded slowly, his fingers steepled in deep thought as he listened to his ISC brethren. They had laid out the excellent points, and York intended to drive them home. Slowly, he stood and approached his podium. Very deliberate motions gave a sense of caution and deliberateness. It also helped to draw the rest of the audience in so that they would be silent when his voice finally gave way to words.

"Speaker, I want to commend both Governor Archer and Secretary Carrick for outlining the logistical and practical problems in enforcing this particular rule. Not only would some entity, be it through a trial or hearing, would have to determine intent, but ultimately all reasons are political. Whether it be economic, militaristic, diplomatic, or sheer pettiness, any reasons a faction may have to try to deter one planet or planets from trading with another outside of that faction would be political."

He motioned to Governor Archer and said, "And as stated, the punishment of sanctions is in direct violation of the law itself. Economic sanctions are precisely what this rule would ban- the prevention of trade or services rendered on a political basis."

He sighed, and looked down at his podium. A heartfelt moment to be sure, something more...emotional soon to be forthcoming. "And, in the spirit of transparency, the ISC is already in violation of this rule. The Treasury has recently put in place certain incentives and directives...perhaps so far as to be called "pressuring" the planets and systems in our Consortium to buy certain goods and services inside our faction's borders instead of buying them outside of our faction. Likewise, there are certain resources and products that have similar restrictions, guidelines, and incentives to only sell those products or materials within the ISC borders." He punched a button on his pad and the word for word ruling would flash in front of every senator who had their holopad on. As they could clearly see, the ISC would already be in violation of the law.

"Now, let me tell you why that it is. It is not because we want to punish the FWA or the New Republic or any of the independent planets that are not affiliated with us. We have a situation that I believe may be hard for the New Republic senators to understand. Not because they don't care or because they can't understand, but because the struggle with planets on the Outer Rim is quite different than what you see closer to the center of our galaxy." York hit another button and several of the guidelines for certain resources to stay "in house" or to be purchased only from ISC planets would show in front of the legislative body. "Unlike the New Republic and many of the FWA planets who call the Inner Rim and Expansion Region home, the ISC has a vast number of planets and systems in the Outer Rim, many of which have been ravaged by thugs and criminal syndicates for thousands of years. We don't have the same "core" of highly developed, economic powerhouses as the New Republic and the FWA. We have planets such as Lok, a dusty, mostly barren planet whose populace simply survived by whatever scraps galactic pirates left as they passed through. The ISC is trying to help the people on Lok by indulging some of our raw material-rich planets to forego more prosperous deals with planets in the FWA and the New Republic so that with ISC help, the necessary infrastructure for that planet to become a growing manufacturing center can be built."

He put his palms on the podium and looked out at the others in the room. "We are trying to give the citizens of Lok a future that is theirs, a sense of wealth and ownership in their own success."

He clicked the button again and the rule that would prevent such measures would shine in red words in front of the legislators. "But this would be stripping the people of Lok from their future, their chance to finally become self-sufficient." A long list of planets would also pop up. Shimia, Tattooine, Orvax IV, and dozens and dozens of other planets and moons with sentient civilizations would start scrolling in front of them. "And the people of all these other planets that we're trying to help as well."

He would give the members of the galactic senate an opportunity to read over sheer volume of planets who would be adversely affected by this rule before turning it off. "I believe this agenda item was brought to this body with the purest of intentions to promote free trade. Unfortunately, this would mean that many of our planets would forego their trade deals inside the Consortium for more lucrative individual deals with the New Republic core and colony worlds as well as some within the FWA. Of course, this means that the rich would get richer and the poor in the Outer Rim would have the rug pulled out from under them just when they thought they were getting their footing."

He looked across the room, panning the large space with his eyes slowly to get as many eyeballs as he could. "If you do vote in favor of this, all I ask in return is for you to visit each of these planets that I have provided for you and tell those people eye to eye, face to face why the fat cat major corporations and ecumenopolises of the Core Words deserve that business and money more than they do."

York tucked his datapad back into his pocket and looked out at the senate. "Short of that, I ask you to support the motion and my second of the motion to table this agenda item."

With the same deliberation of how he started, York took his time turning off his microphone, gathering his belongings and making his way to his seat.


@Rhogar @Tess @lizziie @Sreeya @Mr. Teatime @Wit @Mockingjay @Nommie @The Good Doctor @LouJoVi @Reyn @Altaris
 

Nicolas Clément

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Independent
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Ex-Senator

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Nicolas listened to the good Senator of Kuat's proposal, and then the others who have responded to it. Nicolas would nod along and agree with the ISC governors pointing out the flaws with the proposal. If the bill passed as is, it would be messy to say the least...

The New Alderaanian didn't say anything. Everything that needed to be said was said already, nothing more to add to he really so no need. Nicolas would support the motion to table the item, pushing the button at his pod to do so. With the general sentiment from the ISC doing the same - even another New Republic senator agreeing - that looks like that's what's going to happen probably.

He would then take a moment to look at the next proposed item on the agenda: The military defense pact against the Sith. This will be fun...

 

Emil Ro

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Supreme Chancellor

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"Nothing to say, sir?" Joost asked as Emil reached for the panel on his pod, watching anxiously as the senator used the touchpad to indicate his support for the motion to table the current agenda item.

Emil couldn't blame him. The Senator from Balmorra was usually not the quiet type. He found no shame in admitting he liked to hear himself talk, and he quite distrusted any politician that said they didn't. But on this particular issue, there was nothing that he could add that had not already been said. Besides, glancing at the next agenda item in the queue, he suspected that the debate that came next is the one that would require the most arguing from everyone present.

"Sorry to disappoint you, Joost," Emil said, leaning back into his cushioned seat. "Someone wise once said not to blow—"

"Don't finish that sentence."

"Ehrm, to pick your battles carefully?"

"Better."

Emil nodded once, then returned his attention to the proceedings. He briefly cast a glance over in Jin's direction, wondering what Fondor's representative might have to say, if anything about the measure; though, knowing Vaisra, he was likely eyeing the same item the rest of them were. The military defense pact against the Sith.
 

Eumi Redrish

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Senator, Kuat

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Eumi was more than a little disappointed to listen to her fellow senate members disparage her work, some not seeming to have understood the intent of her proposal while others seemed to want her to have written out every possible infraction and its associated punishment before bringing it to the floor.

Governor Archer seemed to think the punishment would contradict the proposal, but if she'd been listening she would have realized there is a huge difference between pressuring your member planets to cease trade with another faction and allowing member planets to adjust their trade deals with those that have been conspiring against them if they so chose. She had been fairly clear on the difference in her address, but she would not belabor that point now. She had a more important distinction to make. “Governor Archer. You bring up several good points and I agree that the proposal should be tabled until those points are addressed, but allow me to clarify just a few misunderstandings for you. First and foremost, if a planet chooses not to trade with one particular planet, that is agreeable. That is their right, and it is not suspicious behavior. Therefore, it would not warrant an investigation into their motives. However, if a planet chooses not to trade with any planet from a particular political party outside its own, that is quite clearly a politically motivated move. I believe we can agree on this point.”

“Secondly, I must disagree with you, as the punishment is not the same as the crime. The crime is pressuring your member planets into trade decisions that may or may not be to their benefit. The punishment is giving the wounded planets the option to break contracts with the offenders. If they so choose.


Then ISC's Secretary of Defense spoke up, and she had to admit he had a point about not having a specific entity on hand to investigate the allegations, though she had expected the senate itself to investigate. Perhaps senate hearings were too much to ask for. “I can assure you, Secretary Carrick, that I was not attempting to be glib with my remark. A trial would come without saying, but only if it was warranted. Rather than uncertainty, I was attempting to project the hope that if a false accusation was lobbed without merit or evidence, it could be dismissed by the senate rather than subjecting the falsely accused to a full trial. I admit my wording may not have been the most eloquent, but to make such bold assumptions of my intent was uncalled for.”

Eumi's attention soon turned to Senator Lassiter, nodding her head to her before addressing the amendment she suggested to the proposal. “A committee would be a very wise amendment. Thank you, Senator Lassiter for suggesting it.”

The fourth person to speak up was Governor York, and his confessions was surprising to say the least. The ISC was already pressuring their planets to refuse trade of certain items? And his justification was that some of their planets are poor and they're trying to build their infrastructure? That seemed a little convenient. “Governor York. Would it not benefit Lok more to allow them to trade with the 'economic powerhouses' of the Core Worlds you just mentioned? You say you did this for their benefit, but are you not simply conditioning them to become dependent on the ISC for their success rather than attaining their own success through open trade?” She paused. “Or is Lok allowed to trade with whomever they choose, and it's the other planets under your guidance who are restricted?”

At his suggestion they look the people of these worlds in the eye as if they were planning to take the food from their mouths, she had to add, “Governor, do you truly believe any planet, rich or poor, wishes for the demise of another? What a truly dark assumption to make.”

Once all those who were going to speak had done so, Eumi would deactivate her mic and return to her seat, sifting through the many many messages she'd received from the Principal Director and her pages, a slight frown settling on her lips as she concerned herself with the next item on the agenda and tried to set aside her aggravation at her proposal being dismissed out of hand.

She might've tried to do too much too quickly, bringing a proposal to the floor so soon after taking office. She would need to learn from this mistake.
 

Emryc Thorne

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Consortium
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ISC President

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Emryc had been largely silent throughout the discussion on this particular agenda item. His executive council was beyond impressive - he no longer needed to be the loudest voice in the room. This session was a perfect demonstration of how ISC had many driven and well prepared politicians instead of just one.

He could tell at once that the motion to table had left the Senator of Kuat slightly flustered. The half Sephi eyed her quietly, face impassive as always. He had nothing profound to add that hadn’t been brought up already, but he did lean forth to switch on his mic. Her remark to York had warranted a bit of clarification.

“Encouraging trade within a government in its infancy to help bolster its economy is a practice that’s common, and quite frankly, expected,” He explained calmly, “It was exercised even by your very own Republic both old and new. It's inaccurate to think that New Republic and FWA planets do not prioritize their own government above others. The Independent Systems Consortium is, by definition, an agreement and a coalition of planets that would first prioritize helping one another bolster their very own ‘powerhouse economy’ and consider funneling more resources to the Core as secondary. This is to take away a massive dependency on the Core Worlds to survive. ISC will always stand by those principles. This is precisely why planets like Lok have joined ISC instead of staying independent and trading with whoever they pleased - doing so does not help them become a part of an ecosystem like ISC provides. We will always pride ourselves in being able to stand up an economy within our borders that will not be shattered without desperate reliance on Republic or FWA Worlds.”

He glanced around the room, “I think those are ambitions every good Senator would value and support,” Emryc then looked over at Redrish again, “However, the ISC will be more than happy to set up a follow on meeting with you to refine the proposal so it considers multiple perspectives - some which are unique to poorer, Outer Rim worlds that have little infrastructure in place. The logistics on investigative procedures will also need to be ironed out.”

Emryc turned towards the Speaker next, “With Senator Redrish’s concurrence in tabling the item for now, I believe we are prepared to move onto the next.”

@lizziie @Tess
 
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Eumi Redrish

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Eumi would give the ISC President a simple nod of agreement to tabling her proposal, pulling the stylus from her datapad so she could take notes for revision while listening to the introduction of the next item.
 

The Storyteller

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The Speaker



It seemed the second agenda item had come to a wrap.

"This item will be tabled for now," began the Speaker. She pulled up the next item before she continued. "The Free Worlds Alliance suggests a military defense pact in order to deal with the threat of the Sith. Each nation would be required to come to the aid of any other, and if they do not, they would be punished." She read the proposal summary verbatim, then waited for the representing senator to come to stand.

 

Korre Belasi

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Independent
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Ambassador

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A look came over Korre's face. It would be apparent to any who glanced her way that she was not a fan of the proposal on the table. Her hand cupped her chin and mouth and her brows were furrowed as she processed the item and how she might speak against it. It was not in the interest of Belasco to be forced, essentially, to provide military support to another government (or even planet). In her opinion, this bill went against the just of the FWA. Korre pulled her pod forward and activated her microphone.

"Belasco is not in favor of this proposal and we will cast our vote against it. While the intentions of this proposal may be well intended, a defense pact which requires--forces--any government to come to the aid of another or face a punishment is both irresponsible and not in line with what the FWA was founded on.

"There are several things about this that do not sit well with me. One, not every planet within the FWA has the capability to support even themselves against assault. Providing defense would then fall back on the same planets with large enough navies to assist, which is grossly unfair to their peoples and their stores of resources. Two, like I said, the FWA does not and should not have the power to force individual planets to expend their resources. If this pact would pass, it would allow for other proposals which might include this "help us or be punished" precedent.

"Belasco could be in favor of a treaty which rewards planets willing to assist in case of an assault by the Sith, but not this one. I agree that the Sith are a real and looming problem which do need to be addressed, but this is not the right way of going about establishing cohorts to stand against them."


Korre would then disable her microphone and move her pod back. She'd said her piece.
 

Emil Ro

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The Free Worlds Alliance was an enigma to Emil. So hellbent on individuality that some worlds in their federation even balked at mutual defense. And while Korre Belasi had a number of valid critiques of the original proposal, the idea alone did not lack merit.

"The motion before us is an interesting one," he said, activating his own mic. "Deeply flawed, yes. But not altogether unsalvageable. The Sith threat cannot be entirely ignored, and the Free Worlds Alliance sits at their doorstep. As Senator Belasi rightly indicates, many worlds in that Alliance haven't the capability to defend themselves should they come under attack. Are we, then, to just sit there and leave them to their fates? You speak of fairness, Senator, but that doesn't seem very fair to me."

"Perhaps a compromise is needed. This body could form a joint taskforce in which member worlds or governments could opt in and offer resources—ships, troops, and the supplies they would need—to respond in case any of our sovereign borders come under attack. Not just from the Sith, the Syndicates, while seemingly dormant at the moment, are also a threat that mustn't be forgotten. The amendment I propose would allow us to strengthen our alliance with another and defend our allies when they are in need while respecting the sovereignty and choices of member worlds who do not have the ability, or the desire, to contribute."

Emil realized his proposal wasn't perfect either; but it was a starting place for debate, discussion. And so he decativated his mic and sank back down, curious as to how his compromise would be received.

 

Sibyl Lassiter

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Consortium
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Governor of Brentaal

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The next topic to be discussed, a military defense pact in order to deal with the threat of the Sith, was one of the most important in Sibyl’s opinion. Since their return, the Sith were a growing threat to the order of the Galaxy. They were expanding their territory almost unopposed, something needed to be done to stop them.

After Senator Korre Belasi of Belasco made her speech, Sibyl rolled her eyes discreetly. Although her criticism about the punishment of those that decide to not aid the others was valid, her idealism became evident with her insistence on defending the individuality of the planets even in the face of annihilation was annoying. The Free World Alliance was the one most threatened by the Sith’s expansion and Senator Belasi, a representative of this government, refused to agree with a military coalition that would be beneficial to the FWA. For the Senator of Brentaal, If Korre Belasi isn’t naïve, she probably was an agent of the Sith.

The speech of Senator Emil Ro of Balmorra reminded the Brentalaan woman that there were still reasonable people among the members of the Galactic Senate. His proposal seemed logical and practical enough for Sibyl to support.

After Emil finished, Sibyl rose from her seat and activated the microphone. “I believe that all esteemed members of this Senate agree that the Sith are a great threat to democracy and that something must be done to stop their expansion. I agree with Senator Belasi that some points of this proposal are questionable.” she made a pause, smiling condescendingly to the Senator of Belasco “However, as she said, there are many planets in the FWA that would not be able to stand against the Sith alone, this way a military alliance would be beneficial to them. Due to that, I support Senator Ro’s amendment. A joint task force would bring many benefits, not only regarding the protection of the planets against the advance of the Sith, but also in solidifying the alliance and solidarity between our governments and member planets. After all, isn't it the main objective of the Galactic Senate?

After she finished, Sibyl returned to her seat while thinking about how the Senator of Belasco reminded her of Tristodd. The Senator of Brentaal shuddered at the thought that two such idealistic and naïve people could exist in the same Galaxy.
 
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Nicolas Clément

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Nicolas had to concur with the good senator of Belasco. People should be encouraged to fight the Sith, not be forcibly pulled into it. There are many worlds and governments even in Galactic Senate borders that want nothing to do with the war and/or are not ready for it. It's doubtful this bill would have pass, and if it did there would be a lot of resentment. New Alderaan wouldn't agree with this either.

But Senator Ro's alternate proposal, that would be much better. Nicolas would speak "A voluntary joint-task force would be much more preferable indeed. New Alderaan doesn't advocate forcing members into fighting under threats." he said. He is much more supportive of this. He will give his support, and hope more members of the senate follow. Even with a much more appealing and fair purposal, he can still see quite a few of the senate voting nay. "In addition to what Senator Ro said, joint-task force would also let us coordinate better when we are under attack. The more willing participants the force has, the stronger we would be. Potential aggressors, the Sith, the Syndicates, and any future threats would think twice about attacking." The Sith have taken over FWA and Republic worlds, if this is formed and it gains significant amount of support, it would be a good bulwark against the Sith and other threats as mentioned. Nicolas would pause before moving on "There is strength in unity, history has proven this true." he said. One only has to look back at major events starting at the Battle of Yavin and onwards to know this to be true.

With that, Nicolas would metaphorically leave the stand for someone else to chime in.
 

Carrick

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Consortium
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ISC Secretary of Defense

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One bad idea tabled until it could either be resurrected as a good one with a whole lot of re-working or left on the cutting room floor if that could not be accomplished. Personally, Carrick didn't believe that it would see the light of day again but he had been wrong when it cam to politics in the past so potentially it could find its way back. Like some of the Coruscanti street food, he could see it coming back up when it would be the most inconvenient for all involved.

The next item on the agenda was, very much, in his wheelhouse however.

Trade was something he had some idea about but he was the Secretary of Defense for the ISC and so anything military was much closer to his heart. Listening to the speaker as they introduced the next item, Carrick crossed his arms and listened quietly for a moment before pulling out one of his datapads and checking some of his most recent reports.

And to tap out a short text message to the other ISC members he knew.

'If any organisation other than ours would like to present an item to the agenda that is NOT deeply flawed and requiring metric tonnes of reworking, that would be great.'

In the end, Carrick was polite enough to listen but not enough that he could simply sit back and let them continue on in the way in which they were do so. He unmuted his microphone and leaned forward slightly to address the senators.

"I vote against the item as it was suggested for a multitude of reasons - not least of which is my understanding that a defense pact is typically agreed before war can break out, to help prevent war."
he frowned, "Not as an excuse to use the young sentients, resources and military might of other planets and nations to strengthen your crumbling defensive line."

Carrick had smiled and he had been polite but he was the Secretary of Defense for a young nation, one that was taking its first steps toward forming its own military. It was his job to stand up and tell the rest of the Galaxy that the ISC would defend itself against all aggressors. And, if needs be, show them that as well.

That it would not be bullied into line.

"Equally I would like to state my disgust that even the 'opt in' approach is being presented in such a way. This is not, as some of this esteemed body seem to believe, a measure to deter attacks on neutral worlds from some perceived threat; this is very much a naked attempt to drag neutral worlds into a bloody, brutal, war you are currently, re-actively, waging."

And losing was left unsaid but his tone said it all.

"My heart goes out to your people who have suffered in the war so far and for those who will suffer in the future. Truly, it does, but this task-force is not the answer. The answer you need to find is one that helps you win battles, not open more fronts and force you to spread your available forces over even more territory in the fool's hope that throwing more sentients, more planets, at your enemy will somehow stop them."
he shook his head, "No, tempting planets currently at peace to join your war to be added to your butcher's bill in place of your own people without rhyme, reason or, more importantly, any practical military planning is beyond disgusting to me. My vote is nay on both the original and the amendment."
 

Galek Ordalos

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For the entire session thus far, Galek had made the conscious choice to keep his strong opinions to himself. The Induparan sat with his hands folded in his lap, listening silently as the respective members of the Senate battled on issues of trade and foreign policy. Whenever there had been a moment where the prince had considered rising to speak, the void was soon thereafter filled by one of the various other ISC members in attendance. With so many talented and passionate Governors prepared to argue in their favor, it was simply not necessary for Galek to add his voice to the choir.

When the Speaker read out this particular ridiculous agenda item, however, Galek decided he was no longer content sitting on his rear quietly. He listened courtesy enough as a handful of Senator’s argued both in support and against the motion, allowing their voices to die down and their points to be made before he added his own. Rising from his seat, Galek straightened his back and smoothed the surface of his jacket while his pod floated into position, unmuting his microphone once he had moved to the center of the chamber.

“Distinguished members of the Senate,” He began, his voice amplified through the Senate chamber. “As appointed Governor of Indupar and a representative of the ISC, I rise in opposition to this proposal by FWA. While I recognize that this is well intentioned, I cannot in good faith support legislation that is deeply flawed on multiple levels.”

“Firstly,”
He began what was clearly the start of a lengthy speech, probably to the chagrin of those in attendance. “It is impossible to ignore the glaring logistical flaws that would plague any attempts to actualize a defense pact as is suggested. According to the proposal, in the event one fraction is attacked by an outside aggressor, it states that, and I quote, “the other two are expected to mobilize their armies and arrive at the defense of each other.” What this proposal does not elaborate is how precisely this is expected to happen. It does not take into consideration the geographical distances between the respective militaries of each fraction that would make any rapid response nigh impossible.”

“Allow me, if you would, to play out a scenario. Consider if the planet Ithor – a planet located on the border between FWA and Sith space – came under siege. How would those bound by this defense pact hope to respond? For all intents and purposes, Ithor is a planet which is geographically remote from the heart of New Republic or ISC territory, lightyears away from any stationed fleet or army. Even with the best coordination between all parties, it would take any force from the New Republic days if not weeks to arrive. It would take the ISC, which is primarily located within the Outer Rim, even longer. By the time any combined relief effort arrived, the battle would almost certainly be over, considering planets like Denon and Taris capitulated in only days."

“This is not only a problem for planets with within FWA space either, as the same scenario is equally applicable for every faction. How could forces from the New Republic or FWA possibly hope to respond expeditiously if Naboo or Ryloth were attacked?”
He shook his head. “It simply isn’t a realistic thing to ask – and it is part of the reason why the ISC has actively taken steps to secure its own security without relying upon the rest of the galaxy to come to our rescue.”

Galek paused once more, allowing his first argument against the proposal to hang in the air before he continued onto his next point. “Equally as important to address are the shocking and quite frankly ridiculous claims written into this proposal. It claims, and I quote, “If all parties agree, and one faction does not assist, it will be seen as collusion with the Sith and the affronting party will be heavily sanctioned.” My fellow Senators, this is simply unacceptable. In place of a reasonable and sound plan, this proposal does nothing but perpetuate paranoia. In place of anything which makes logistical sense, this proposal tries to use fear-tactics and a ‘if your not with us, your against us’ mentality and the threat of economic ruin to strongarm sovereign systems and planets into compliance."

"Rather than providing a mutually beneficial defensive pact, this proposal would coerce entire systems and governments into reluctantly entering a war which they have quite literally zero stake in.”
The look across the prince’s expression was one of clear and utter disgust, his words spat out venomously. “It is an insult and quite frankly unbecoming of this civilized body to back any legislation that bases itself in spreading fear and paranoia to garner votes.”

Only then did the prince turn his attention to Emil Ro, hazel eyes narrowing in his direction. The Induparan had no personal gripe with the Senator from Balmorra, but he had chosen to stand for the legislation and Galek was going to press him hard for it. “I appreciate your willingness to come to a compromise, Senator Ro, but your amendment does little to address the core flaws in this legislation. Firstly, you propose a taskforce, to quote your own words, “in which member worlds or governments could opt in and offer resources.” Do correct me if I’m wrong, but wouldn’t such amendment simply force this decision upon individuals planets instead of their respective factions? To Senator Belasi’s point, this would only serve to water down this defensive pact further by putting it upon wealthy and militarily powerful planets to burden the weight, while others planets simply choose not to opt in and contribute. Secondly, such an ‘opt in’ taskforce creates a dangerous new precedent of encouraging planets to make foreign policy decisions that differentiate from those of their respective governments, potentially pulling billions of sentient citizens into a conflict they don’t want.”

And finally, the prince arrived at his last pointed question for the Senator of Balmorra. “Lastly, your amendment does nothing to address the ridiculous idea that those who actively choose not to participate in this pact would be viewed as working in collusion with the Sith. I assume that this is merely a lack of elaboration on your part, or will you go out on the record and support this notion before the entire senate?"
 
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Eumi Redrish

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There were so many things Eumi wanted to say as the debate began, but she wouldn't. She couldn't, even if she wanted to. She was too new to her position to make any bold statements or to criticize her fellow senators openly. She needed time to learn what buttons to push for each of them to get what she wanted from them, and she needed time to earn the trust and acceptance of her planet's people. But part of her truly wished she could point out all the many glaring concerns she saw with regards to the arguments being presented on the floor today.

Lightly tapping on her datapad screen with her stylus, she paid heed to the message from the Principal Director of the Kuat Drive Yards and held her tongue on this proposal, choosing instead to sit quietly and mock her fellows in silence instead.

The Senator from Belasco's objection to the item was not surprising, considering how the FWA came into being, but her comments about certain planets within the FWA not being able to defend even themselves gave Eumi pause. If they couldn't defend themselves, why did they choose to leave the protection of the Republic? If they were attacked, who would come to their aid? Not the Republic, and apparently not their FWA allies either. Were these planets full of nihilists who welcomed death as long as it was on their terms? Or was the FWA so naïve they thought being independent would somehow make them less attractive targets to the sith's attacks or the ISC's rigorous recruiting tactics? It would be somewhat ironic to have left the so-called 'tyranny' of the Republic simply to end up under the thumb of the next 'tyrant' too powerful for them to defend themselves against, wouldn't it?

Next was Senator Ro's suggestion of a voluntary 'task force' meant to somehow police the entirety of the galaxy whilst not being monetarily or militarily supported by the entire galaxy. Did he truly believe so many planets would voluntarily weaken their own personal defense for the 'good' of the galaxy as a whole? Did he expect our own Republic troops to willingly put themselves in danger for a planet that chose to break from the Republic and then further chose not to 'opt in' to this task force? To protect those who openly and selfishly choose not to offer aid when others are being attacked? Really? And people thought she was naïve.

And Senator Lassiter agreed with him. Typical.

Eumi would make a few personal notes about each of the senators as she listened to them speak, shaking her head lightly but doing her best to keep a neutral expression on her face lest she unwittingly divulge just how disappointed she was in both the wording of the proposal as well as the flawed responses she was hearing in regards to said proposal.

The next to speak was Senator Clement, who was surprisingly in favor of a voluntary joint task force – though that was more than likely because he hoped to make use of it if his own planet was attacked rather than a desire to join the task force and assist others himself. The FWA were certainly very selfish in that regard, and one of the reasons Kuat decided to stay with the Republic when the split occurred. At least the Republic protected all its members.

The last to speak were two ISC representatives, the Secretary of Defense Carrick and then Governor Ordalos. Eumi particularly disliked when the ISC spoke. They, more than anyone else in the room, seemed to enjoy offering friendship with one hand while holding a knife to your throat with the other. Their words were honeyed, oh yes, but not one of them had yet spoken in favor of a proposal not offered by one of their own, and they took much too much pleasure in openly insulting the Republic with their speeches. Crumbling defensive lines. Weakening credit. Ineffective leadership. They were much too eager to point fingers and play the victim card whilst simultaneously announcing their own currency and claiming to be a growing powerhouse of an economy that was overshadowing that of the much longer reigning and well-established Republic.

Where the FWA was selfish, the ISC was two-faced.

It was difficult not to snort derisively at Governor Ordalos' comment, the bit about how unfair it would be to force entire systems to enter a war which they 'have zero stakes in'. It seemed the Governor had already forgotten what tends to happen when a war breaks out. Will the sith spare their planets because they're not actively at war with them? Or because they're too far away? Did Zakuul spare the neutral planets in this galaxy when they went on their rampage? No. The Governor seemed to be of the mindset that if the sith left them alone, why should they have to worry about it, and to that effect why should they aid anyone outside their purview? It was the age-old and yet still poignant 'they came for Alderaan, and I said nothing, for I was not Alderaanian' defense. A horrifying mindset where until it was their own planets and their own people's homes burning to the ground they had no 'stake' in the war. The truth was, if the galaxy as a whole came together against the sith – as one – their combined forces could send those evil monsters into hiding for the next thousand years. Instead, the ISC wanted to ignore the issue and simply hope the sith won't come knocking at their door one day.

(937 words)
 

Emil Ro

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By the time Governor Ordalos had finished speaking, Emil had resumed rubbing circles into his temples. Joost had briefed him on how much the Consortium hated the Jedi and Sith conflict, but he had not expected this much vitriol. Especially when his intention had been to simply spark a debate on improving the legislation rather than dismissing it outright—like a legislative body was meant to, in other words. Nevertheless, he felt strongly enough about this to stand and offer a reply.

"I can respect your concerns, Governor Ordalos," Emil said. "Perhaps, as you say, the brevity of my original remarks failed to convey my true intent. Some of us do not share your gift for long-windedness. Like you, I find the punitive measures of the original proposal to be ridiculous, to say the least. Not all worlds or governments have the means, and they shouldn't be punished if that is the case. You also rightly point out a logistical concern that wasn't addressed in the original proposal or my response."

"But since Secretary Carrick has expressed his disgust, perhaps I should express mine. I find it a rather revolting notion that any member of this body would leave others at the mercy of a Sith invasion. The Republic and the Consortium have powerful navies to defend themselves if they come under attack. But our friends in the Free Worlds Alliance do not have the luxury of pooling their resources simply due to the nature of their union."

"If your government so objects to involving itself in the defense of its own allies, then it may simply opt out. As for the geographical concerns, I had a thought as to a solution. Perhaps the Galactic Senate, as part of this join coalition, could fund the creation of joint-military bases in strategic locations throughout allied space. These bases would be maned by ships and soldiers from all three of our great factions — or at least those who opt to participate — and would be positioned to respond quickly in the event of an attack. And, so I am not mistaken again, all punitive measures should be stripped from the original proposal—that way, only worlds or governments who want to participate front any burden this alliance may create."

"I realize this war is not ideal. And I am sympathetic of the Consortium's anger towards the continued religious wars that seem to plague our galaxy. But the solution is not to leave allies to die. And it is also not to vote down legislation without a debate on how to improve it, as Secretary Carrick seems keen to do. The New Republic will stand by her allies, even when our governments disagree. And I am determined to find a way to do that now."

Feeling winded, Emil cut his mic and sat, hoping that the next time he rose to spoke, he would not have to be so wordy to clarify his intentions. Joost, for his part, stayed silent. Now was certainly not the time for quips. @Nefieslab @Altaris
 

Caliban Drast

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"Might I," Caliban spoke during a lull in the discussion, "offer an alternative." He paused for a moment, and when there was no objection, got to his feet to share what was on his mind. "The true issue here is the threat of the Sith, the belief that alone any of us might find it hard to counteract the threat they pose. Be it the Republic, the Free Worlds, the Independent Systems, or even the Jedi. What we need isn't a means to impose demands on each other. What we need is a deterrent. Something to show the Sith that there are consequences to attacking any of us." He paused, putting things together as he spoke, stitching together the frameworks of an idea on the fly. "The Republic and the Free Worlds face the same problems with any such proposal, both logistical and organizational. We don't have a strong enough central military force to call upon to be of any good against the Sith if a fight breaks out."

He looked around him, noticing the different reactions on the faces of his colleagues. Some were in favor of such a centralized force, some where vehemently against it. He was very likely putting them on edge just by bringing up such things. "Might we begin with a smaller step, one of alliance. A declaration that the member bodies of the Galactic Senate are allied in not just an economical, but in a martial sense. Any act of aggression against one will not just be seen as an act of war against one, but against all. I propose the signing of a treaty, one that formally lays down the bonds of friendship between us, and declares a warning to the Sith. As part of this treaty we approve the creation of a Galactic Security Council, tasked with ensuring peace within and against the Galactic Senate. It will be armed with forced voluntarily provided by any and all member planets of the Galactic Senate. In a time of conflict, say an open attack by the Sith against any one of us, the Security Council will not only send forth the peacekeeping forces under its control, but also call upon members of the senate to support such actions if greater strength is required.

 

Soygun York

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As the conversation drove on, York buries his head into his palms. This agenda item, this conversation...it reeked of desperation. And If the Sith treated war the way York treated business, desperation was an invitation for a hostile takeover. Some may see this defense pact or alliance as a sign of strength, but York thought just the obvious. Three factions feel the need to band together against one? If nothing else, it was embarrassing.

York stood abruptly and turned on his microphone.

"No. No to the half-baked agenda item. No to the half-baked plans to save the agenda item. No to the defense pact, and hell no to an alliance."

He looked around the room, quite incredulous. "Listen to yourselves. The first agenda item was based out of fear that the FWA would blockade trade to the core worlds and colonies in the New Republic. Now we want to join hand in hand around a campfire and sing feel-good songs? You are the reason that people don't trust their governments. This two-faced duplicitous nonsense is why the ISC is expanding at a rapid rate and doing so without invasions or threat of violence. Planets and systems are flocking to us because we do what we say and we say what we do. We don't hide the ugly truth behind a pretty wall and hope the masses will accept it as the truth."

He chuckled, but not out of being merry or finding something funny. Simply a mechanism to show his disbelief. "The truth. What a novel concept. Not lies or political games with false accusations," York said directing a long stare at Senator Drast. "And the truth...the truth is this is a fear tactic. The New Republic and the FWA can be run by fear. The ISC will not. This agenda item, period, point-blank, no question about it- was posed on a foundation of fear. I will not be ruled by fear."

He waved his arms to the ISC contingent in the building. "We will not be ruled by fear. The Consortium exists because your way of running the galaxy failed. We will not let the failed bureaucracy of the FWA and the New Republic draw the ISC into needless military confrontation or economic ruin."


York popped the microphone off and sat down. The aids next to him were wide-eyed and very still. They didn't see that one coming. Truthfully, neither did York.
 

Sibyl Lassiter

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Consortium
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While listening to the speeches of the ISC representatives, Sibyl wanted to laugh. They were a bunch of self-serving hypocrites, like herself. While organizing the ISC military power, they preach that they would not act out by fear. Those who don't fear violence or don't want to put fear into their possible enemies wouldn't bother to organize a military. For the Senator of Brentaal, the simple act of the ISC to organize an army showed that they feared something or wanted to be feared, perhaps even both.

"I don't understand why the members of the ISC are against this proposal." Tristodd said, looking at her. "The Sith are a threat to the entire Galaxy. Knowing their dislike of the Sith and Jedi, I thought they would support this military alliance. Isn't that the function of the Galactic Senate? Make us work together for the good of the entire Galaxy? Going against this proposal will leave several planets exposed to the Sith."

Tristodd's idealistic mind seemed to not understand the real intention of the ISC, but Sibyl knew what they wanted. For them the Senate is a great theater stage, where they love to sell the image of saviors and defenders of the downtrodden of the Galaxy, this way attracting more members to the ISC. At the same time, they would present the Republic and the FWA as the villains of their pantomime. Yet she could not help but admire them, herself only supported this proposal due to it reducing the chances of the conflict with the Sith reaching the Core Worlds, while Brentaal would benefit economically with the military mobilization.

"It seems like that the ISC want to see the Sith destroy the FWA and the Republic, so they can collect what remains of both." Sibyl turned to Tristodd. She was impressed, the boy seemed to be learning how politics really works. "But that can't be true, it would go against the ideals on which the Galactic Senate was formed." no, he is a lost case.

Sibyl decided to not speak this time, not wishing to cause enmity with the representatives of the ISC. After all, who knows if one day she would not need them as allies?
 

Emil Ro

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"This is madness," Joost muttered from his seat in Emil's pod.

Emil smirked, slapping the young aide across the back. He often forgot how new the boy was to the viciousness of the Senate, a field of battle he himself quite enjoyed. "This is politics."

He stood, taking the mic again. "With all due respect, Governor York, it sounds as though you already are. Yes, quite fearful indeed. I realize that such language is common to bodies such as these, but the rest of us must live in the real world; and in the real world, the Sith are a very real threat that needs to be taken with equal seriousness. The New Republic will not sit on its hands and watch the Sith turn our galaxy into yet another Empire."

He paused here. No matter their differences, everyone in this hall wanted to prevent the rise of a second Galactic Empire. He had to hope in at least that much. And even if they were indifferent, the imagery was at least useful to his argument. "But the New Republic can also not spearhead this fight on its own. We have heard plenty from our delegates, and we've certainly heard how the Consortium is feeling today; but this measure mostly benefits the Free Worlds Alliance. Senator Clément has spoken up in favor of amending the current resolution, but it would be prudent for the other delegates in the Alliance to speak on own their behalf on this matter."

And with that, he shut off his mic again, plopping back down in his seat next to Joost, who only balked at him. "I truly don't know how you put up with this, sir."

"You'll get used to it," Emil replied. "Politics aren't getting any nicer. That's the fun of it."
 

Emryc Thorne

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Emryc had largely been silent, observing and watching the back and forth. Debates were always entertaining for him to watch, especially when they got down to petty finger pointing. It often brought out the true nature of others. The half Sephi let everyone speak before he finally turned to regard Sibyl Lassiter's aide. The half Sephi's enhanced hearing had picked up on the questions he had been muttering.

“Senator Lassiter's aide brings up an excellent question,” His baritone cut through the air after a long period of silence, “Why wouldn't the ISC join this pact? What are we hoping to gain?"

“This may come as a shock, but the Sith are not a galactic wide threat,”
He expected a lot of dramatic responses to this, and his face remained neutral through it all, “If anyone in here has done their homework, they will quickly learn that the Sith are horribly fractured and made up of small fiefdoms led by individuals that have no allegiance to anyone. They are a collection of terrorists. You can tell that based on their attack patterns thus far - quick and sudden hits on key targets instead of a formalized war campaign. The Sith have no singular leader that holds authority or speaks for them. If the FWA or New Republic were to actually begin a military campaign, I have no doubts that the Sith threat would be repelled quite easily because there is no organizational structure to keep them together. My question to you, Senator Lassiter, is why haven’t you attempted that already? Why haven’t you declared war? Senator Belasi, why hasn't FWA made attempts to retake worlds taken by the Sith? You are convinced that the Sith cannot be handled by just one body of government - what is that based on? Spooky Holonet addresses by so called Darths? A few one off strikes on Ranger prisons and a ship - one which was handily repelled with a small defense force? Your people watching at home are learning quickly that the FWA and New Republic are very capable yet unwilling to fight for their own people without dragging external bodies of governments to do it for them first.”

“Senator Lassiter and others,”
His silver gaze panned across them all now, “The ISC is geographically located next to the Hutt Empire and the domain of the Five Syndicates. Unlike the Sith with its very shaky and disparate structure, if you can even call it that, the Syndicates have massive forces that have the ability to weaponize the AMS virus and threaten ISC worlds. To us, we have an even bigger threat to contend with than one off terrorist attacks. Have we once brought up our battle against the Syndicates? Have we once demanded that you sign a pact to aid us immediately and if you don’t, you are clearly wanting to collect from the spoils of war? Have any of you even bothered to consider or mention this enemy? No, because that is not your war to fight. No, because we are not so egocentric that we believe our enemy is the entire galaxy’s enemy.”

If there is a galactic war and if ISC is called upon for aid, we will help. We will defend. We will fight and I can promise you that,”
Emryc stated firmly, “But we will not be guilt tripped or strong armed into a pact that launches us into something we haven’t had the chance to fully understand just yet. At this point, this proposal is being made up on the spot. The ISC will always act in the best interest of its people, not by our opinions alone. I encourage you to first make an attempt to understand ISC and where we come from and work towards building a respectful alliance before you make war demands of us. So far you have done little more than disparage and denounce who we are without taking even a moment to understand our principles.”

“Senator Ro, Senator Lassiter, Senator Drast,”
He addressed them, “You may make decisions for your worlds and the lives of your people on a dime, but we will not. If that means you view us as the enemy for it, if you think us to be deplorable and whatever else, then so be it. Our people come first. And right now, we have our own massive enemy that’s actually established to contend with. We will not be forced to vote yes on a proposal that was made up on the spot.”

@Wit @LouJoVi @Mockingjay @lizziie
 
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