Making Our Own Destiny

[Keira Zale]

OOC: Open for Senators to actively participate in discussion. For anyone else, reacts only please.

She hadn’t intended to end up on Holonet, but word got out that a Senator was angry and calling all other Protectorate Senators to the table. Within moments, camera crews and media was on the scene, reporting live from a building on Tirahnn. She had made her way to the political office where she worked for years. Keira had been in danger countless times since the conflict between the Mandalorians and the Sith started up again, and the UP had been all but silent. It was clear it died as a concept with Raz Solus and Varyn Rask.

Keira moved to stand at a podium, surrounded by seats reserved for other Senators and also for them to Holo in. Cameras were flashing her photos, but she didn’t pay it heed. In many ways, she wanted this to go out into the galaxy.

“Senators and citizens of the galaxy,” She began, gazing directly at the camera pointed at her. She was more than a little nervous, her heart beating against her chest. Her palms were sweaty, and she had never done this before, “The United Protectorate was built with good intentions from two leaders coming together in a very unlikely scenario - Raz Solus and Varyn Rask. This was a concept that allowed the beginnings of peace and the representation and a voice for the planets that allied themselves to Mandalorians or Sith.”

She paused for a moment, “That came to an end partially when Varyn Rask died. However, no true violence broke out until the Sith Empress brought forth a genocide to the Mandalorian home planet. This set forth in motion irreparable damage and ignited a fire that will never die. Raz Solus fell, and her people are now determined more than they ever were since the tragedy of Medriaas. After the Empress’s actions, it is clear that the Sith have no desire to change. And after the beginnings of the Mandalorian retaliation, it is clear that they have more cause than ever to perpetuate war.”

Keira paused again, staring into the camera. The fear and nervousness she displayed disappeared entirely by now. She was clutching the podium, passion in her voice and her eyes, “Where does that leave us, the citizens? Where does that leave you, your family, your mother, your father, your children? Are you prepared to be caught in the cross-fires of this war? Are you prepared to live each day in fear and to the whims of Sith or Mandos as they continue to wage their war? Citizens, the United Protectorate is no more. The UP died with Raz Solus and Varyn Rask. Any leaders that come after them have no mercy in their hearts, and this war will continue on.”

She raised her voice as she spoke next, “We have to take back our planets, Senators! We signed up for this job to represent our people, not to be pawns of the Sith or the Mandalorians! We must secede from the Protectorate and become the voice of our people and put the interests of our planets first! We can’t keep being involved in a war that will result in nothing but us as the casualties. The Mandalorian genocide proved that there is no regard for innocent and civilian life. No one is safe anymore, and we can’t keep fueling this hate machine.”

“I call for us to take back our power and reclaim our voice!” She was yelling now, “I call for true democracy! I call for us to dissociate with the Sith and the Mandalorians! Stand with me and together we can build the foundations of a Republic. A forum where we truly have our people and our interests represented!”

Keira took a deep breath and exhaled, gazing at the camera, “Are you with me, Senators?”

 

[Mara Zefiros]

She didn't holo in. Mara showed up in person. She had heard the commotion, and, eager to finally attend a UP meeting for the first time in what felt (and probably was) months. The Zeltron stepped inside just as Keira Zale was taking the podium, and she took a seat in her booth, finding herself to be the first Senator that was actually there in person, other than the speaker herself.

She listened intently, not yet knowing what to make of the woman. Mara was not new to her position, but that didn't mean she personally knew every Senator, and she was forming an opinion of Keira as the woman kept talking. By the end of her speech, the opinion was positive. And so Mara rose to her feet once silence swept over the room.

The United Protectorate was not built to withstand the test of time. It was not built to withstand regime changes. The moment the two Empires—Sith and Mandalorian—change leaders, the UP fails. And that's what we're witnessing now. The Mandalorians have already begun their sweep into our territory. If we don't act fast, we'll find ourselves gunned down in the streets in the next month." She looked around.

"Senator Zale is right. It is time for us to claim our sovereignty. This is more than just a loose economic alliance between planets. The only way for any of us to remain independent is if we unite under the banner of a new Republic and defend ourselves from the enemy. The old Republic failed because they stood aside while the Sith advanced closer and closer to them. We will not make the mistake."

It was time to wrap it up. "Not only do we need to form a new Republic, but we also need an army."

@Sreeya

@Sreeya

 

[Gideon Hask Starr]

Gideon watched as his fellow Senator made their rather compelling overtures for the grandest political upheaval in recent decades. Troubles times it seemed, did indeed bring troubling outcomes. Kiera made a passionate point, yet one that was born out of the fires of the times and not the logic of the ages. Gideon shook his head as Kiera reached her zenith, and took his own chance to take to the floor at the indication of the Speaker.

”Senator, I am not with you.” he heard rumblings about the chamber as the TV cameras whizzed about him ”The Protectorate and all that it stands for, peace, order and stability, is far greater than two people and can outlive them both. Indeed, the Galaxy itself - whilst events within it may have been led by great individualS - is much bigger than the whims of a few violent powerbrokers. The Protectorate, no, the United Protectorate, is powerful, strong and safe because it is greater than the sum of its parts.”

He paused by for a moment ”Senators, it would be foolhardy of this chamber to respond to deaths bought about by violence, with actions that would net only greater violence. We must strive for peace, and not wish for war - Senator Kiera, your passion and desire to see the Protectorate standing tall is admirable, but your methods to doing so, is dangerous, to say the least. Our strength comes from our alliances, from our people, not from and through force of arms. We simply do not have te capacity to achieve the changes you wish to see, without an astronomically vast loss of life - not of yours, not of mine, but of them,” he pointed as if to the wider city in which the Senate building nestled ”...the people of this United Protectorate, who would reap the cost of such upheaval and conflict as your changes would bring..”

”Senators, this Protectorate stands tall when it stands together, working as one Government, of and for a United Protectorate. So no, Senator Kiera, I am not with you. The deaths of two people, must not, cannot, and will not, plunge this great Protectorate, into a conflict, from which is simply cannot recover.”/JUSTIFY]

 

[Regis]

Regis hadn't been on the political scene of the galaxy for very long, and for a great deal of that time had intentionally left his position... obscure. In such dangerous times, often the best answer was not to make an enemy of anyone, but there was no questioning the fact: people were dying, and in large numbers.

The United Protectorate had been designed with the intention of securing peace between two Empires locked in an intergalactic war, but it had failed. The war had begun again, and regardless of one's political party it was nigh impossible not to lay the blame of an unprovoked surprise attack at the feet of anyone but the Sith. The call to separate from the two Empires - for that was what both the Mandalorians and the Sith were - was undeniably dangerous, but so was doing nothing.

It was no surprise that there were those who stood against the idea. The Senator from Anaxes (@Nor'baal) had some certain points that were sensible, Regis could admit, but it wasn't until the end of his speech that Regis nearly choked on his cup of caf at what he would have called quite the myopic view of the galactic situation.

The death of two people shouldn't plunge the Protectorate into chaos, but what of the death of billions? he asked pointedly. This isn't about the death of just the late Mand'alor and Emperor, it's about the Imperial violation of the ceasefire. The subsequent genocide of women and children on Mandalore. The rekindling of a war that is tearing this galaxy apart, he said, still not standing from his chair, but speaking loudly and clearly enough to be heard, hands on the armrest of his chair as he sat forward.

You say that we must remain united, and I agree, but why remain united under the reins of an Empire that clearly cares so little for these people - Regis intentionally motioned to the exact same spot that Gideon had when he cited those who would die - that it decided launching another - this time unprovoked - intergalactic war was the right decision? he asked.

Whether full secession or not, we, as Senators and representatives of our people, cannot pretend that our overlords - because that's what they've become - have the best in mind for our people or the galaxy, he said pointedly. Or that our neutrality will somehow spare us from part two of a war that has already claimed more than I could count, he said.

 

[Valiance Waszylla]

Now THIS was an interesting turn of events. After a series of interesting turns of events. Of course, the mass deaths on Mandalore and the scandal on Atlas would usually be seen as tragedies due to loss of life and such. Valiance had been sure to send out the appropriate message of his thoughts and prayers when each had happened, his aides making sure that the message was tailored in the correct way for him to not seem callous. His planet and people were always in his mind first, so at times he could seem perhaps a bit uncaring of the greater world. His heart DID ache for the loss, especially for Mandalore where so much knowledge and culture had been lost. Even if he couldn't stand a fight like the Mandalorians could, he could at least appreciate their history and heritage and what not.

Senator Waszylla let them all speak as he pondered his own thoughts on the matter. His mind accessed those places where books and knowledge on strategy and politics resided, applying what he'd learned to do some quick mental simulations on their chances for either their independence or staying with their 'overlords', as they had been called. Knowledge of how both factions, the Sith and Mandalorians, had acted over the years and how their cultures currently were made him lean towards independence. The Sith were seemingly doomed to keep repeating the same mistakes and in their pain the Mandalorians seemed ready to just burn everything in vengeance. Neither was a response that Val felt was warranted.

"Now, I'm not the first person to jump into a risky decision. Or the second person. Hell, I'm usually at the back of the line. In any case, it would seem that inaction on our part, as the rest of the galaxy seems to be careening ever quicker towards war and strife, would be the even riskier choice. I remember, during my halcyon years, when I studied history and strategy composed by the greats of wars past. Good reads, I have a few I can recommend, and I've found you can apply those mindsets to other fields. Haven't had a more disciplined staff, in fact." He chuckled at a joke only he got. When he noticed no one else laughing, he cleared his throat to continue.

"To the point, I agree with Senator Zale. The potential for destruction and loss is too great, considering what has already happened in recent years. I may wish for peace the most, yet I know that is not the desire for everyone in the galaxy. When words fail, it is up to our will and determination to determine the course we take to the future, so you will find mine resolute. I vow to do all within my power to this cause. Maybe this will make a good book someday, too." He sat down with a twinkle in his eye, having said his piece and feeling quite good about it. Perhaps an unpopular view to some, but he couldn't please anyone. He was already imagining what the name of the book about this event would be called. The Sundering of the Sith and Mewlings of the Mandalorians...A good start, but would need more work. It was a bit long.

 

[Alysanne Drast]

It felt like ages since she had been to a civilized world, but even after all this time things were the same. People in power still fought, those without still suffered, and a crazed family member was still at the heart of it all. She had stayed away for as long as she could, but the atrocities of her cousin, seemingly brought about at the whims of an arbitrary drunken celebration, had been too much for her to turn a blind eye to. She was trying to protect her children, but if she stayed away any longer there might be no future for anyone, including her boys. No, it was time to return.

Stepping forward from shadows within the pod belonging to the Senator from Hapes, who had helped sneak her in, Alysanne Drast spoke up.

"Respected Senators, forgive my intrusion. My name is Alysanne Drast," she paused for a moment to let her presence be known, to let he words sink in. "Jedi Master Alysanne Drast. I come here not to speak on behalf of the Jedi Council, or my family. I come to speak as a Jedi, and as a citizen of the Galaxy."

She paused for a moment to see if any would obstruct her from speaking, and when no such objection came she continued. She had probably earned a moment or two simply from the shock of someone with her name and title being there. "I did not know why the Force summoned me to this place today, but hearing the words of the Senator from Tirahnn I now know what I must do. For too long has the Galaxy suffered under the rule of Emperors and Empresses, of the rule of few. I speak not just in support of this Republic, but also propose an addendum to your proposal Senator Zale."

She caught the Senator's eye for a moment, using that moment to look within, to the Force. She had to be sure what she was about to say was the right thing to do, and something told her it was. She knew it now, in her heart of hearts.

"I propose the absorption of the Jedi into this Republic, not as a ruling body, not as another planetary government, but as an arm of the Republic. A protective force, a guiding hand, a pillar of support. The Jedi were never meant to be rulers, we were always protectors. It is time we returned to what we were meant to be."

She knew this was the right thing to do, the way to ensure a future for the Galaxy and the people in it. She did not speak with the voice of the Jedi, hadn't even met a single Jedi in years, but she knew few would oppose what she said.

"If you form this Republic then the Jedi will stand by you.....We will be Jedi, Knights of the Republic."

OOC: Post made with permission from Sreeya

@Sreeya

 

[Koil Solus]

Koil sat with his feet kicked up on the coffee table. In his lap he had an acoustic guitar and off to his side Archie sat occupying plenty of the couch with his size. The dire badger's head was laying down as her rested. Occasionally it looked up at Koil who had removed his gloves so he could play his instrument. It had been so long since he had last played. The Echani tuned it, picking at the strings until it sounded right.

About halfway through he heard a familiar voice ahead of him. At first he thought one of the other marauders had returned to the Crescent Club House on one of Concord Dawn's moons. But it was strange, it was not a voice he knew as a comrade.

Looking up, his helmet reflected the holo projections. It was the senator Keira Zale giving a speach of some sort. She mentioned Raz along with Varyn which of course caused him to stop his tuning. Even Archie, who had been there when she had patched up the War Councilors injures, recognized her and sat up alert and attentive towards the broadcast.

Her speaking about Medriaas and the bombings caused him to murmur. It was not because he disliked what she said. It just reminded him of how angry he was. Koil lifted the instrument and set it aside, no longer in the mood play the guitar.

He listened to the rest of her announcement. This would not be something that was over quickly. Koil did not know the extent of politics but he was not about to spend his entire afternoon being bored and infuriated by other people's foolishness. He picked up a commlink that would contact Leandros. The once loyal members of the Empire should worry about Mand'alor the Crusader.

"Turn your holo on. The UP is...going through some changes you might want to hear about." After that he would just disconnect the line. Later on Koil would check in on the highlights of the events on folding. "Come on Archie. Let's go for a walk." The Unite Protectorate would remain the same and be taken by the current factions or t would turn into a new democracy. Either way the Silent Badger was not sure how he felt about it. Archie on the other hand was happy to go on a walk and scampered after the man.
@Sreeya

 

[Alton Hawkes]

Alton Hawkes has only been a senator for a short while, this is the first place he's been in his capacity as Senator of Chandrila. He was at the seats with the other senators, opting not to holo in to be there in person. He listened to Senator Keria Zale speak, it was a great speech and she didn't hesitate to let everyone know the truth and the cold hearted facts. Although Rask and Raz Solus managed to keep the Core safe, but with recent events any trust is broken, so anything is free game. Like Senator Zefiros said even know the Mandalorians are retaliating for their homeworld's razing in United Protectorate. No where in the galaxy is safe and more fighting will continue. The war has been going on for years and it looks like it will continue for longer.

Something has to change...

And then Alton watched as the Jedi appeared, how did she get in here he thought? He listened to her as well, she is sincere in what she offered. Well, as someone said the Republic would need and army, and that is a start he supposes. Woudl Zale take her up on that, Alton doesn't know but he wouldn't be against it.

Sometime after she spoke, Alton would stand up to voice his support for Keira's goals. "Senator Zale, I stand with you. The Sith have shown their true colors. The Protectorate has already become another battlefield and this war can only end two ways; with Sith or Mandalorian defeat. And what then? We go back to living under Sith oppression? Or our homeworlds become another stepping stone for the Mandalorians on their way to annihilating the Sith, with us right in the middle of it?

We need to take back our future and make our own path. Free and independent. If we are going to do this, we need to get started as soon as possible. It's going to be an an arduous task, but it needs to be done. I will help how ever I can.

He said, he kept his words brief. He didn't need to talk for too long, he just voiced his support is all. He was earnest in his words too. Making forging the foundations of the Republic is a task Alton would be looking around the area, wondering if there will be more reactions.

 

[Leandros Solus]

Leandros received Koil’s message a tad bit too late; he was already watching the Holonet, digesting replays of the Atlas bar bombing and wondering how, exactly, the one person he wanted dead managed to escape. He couldn’t quite believe that she had been blown away like a ragdoll only for there to be no body of hers found at the scene of the attack. It irritated him to no end, but he knew that it mattered little as far as the Sith Empire went; they had already claimed a new Emperor in what was possibly the least Sith-like manner of coming to power. He was disappointed they hadn’t resorted to the infighting and violence that they were known for when power vacuums arose, but he figured he couldn’t blame the Empire that was a mere shadow of what it once was.

Senator Zale – or Keira, as he came to know her during their interactions on Nar Shaddaa – now filled the screen, crying out against the threat of the Sith and his Mandalorian crusaders. Where he once felt irritation at Aadya’s survival, he now had a cocktail of emotions swimming around his head. Where does the destruction of Mandalore and death of Emperor Rask leave the citizens of the galaxy? He scoffed at the question, frustrated with the absurdity of it. He was the only stability the galaxy could know; the Sith did not know how to run an Empire, as history had proven, and the Jedi were too busy cowering in the shadows to be of any relevance. Where the Sith brought despair and death, the Mandalorians brought hope, peace, and stability. He was no Sith overlord – he was the only thing freeing this galaxy from tyranny.

He was fighting for a free galaxy, not to conquer worlds and subjugate them as the Sith once did to his people. He held no mercy in his heart? He grimaced at the accusation, shaking his head. Who was this foolish, naïve idealist to accuse him, Mand’alor the Crusader, of lacking mercy and desiring conquest? Who was she to demand secession when thousands – millions – of Mandalorians have died in this rebellion for people like her? It was an insult to Raz’s memory and that offended him more than anything else. They should've been thanking him for not commanding his warriors to turn their Imperial home worlds into ash and dust as his was, not rebuking him for wanting the complete removal of Imperial influence over the galaxy.

Leandros was conflicted; on the one hand, the very idea of rejecting the peace he brought offended him; on the other hand, he knew Keira was not a bad person by any measure, and this motion was one of her many misguided attempts to bring hope to an otherwise hopeless galaxy. She was a much-needed beacon for the downtrodden, but her methods often neglected to see the greater picture of it all.

He looked over at Lily and sighed, wondering if he was truly doing the right thing. A burning desire for vengeance filled his body, and he knew Raz would do the same to the galaxy – worse, probably – if their roles had been switched. Still, though, that kernel of doubt constantly rested in the back of his mind, questioning everything he did. He was fighting for a free galaxy, but was this the right way to go about it? He desperately wished to be able to talk to her again, if only to just ask her if he was leading their people the way she would have wanted. He furrowed his brows and shook the doubt away, turning the Holonet to cartoons for his child to enjoy.

Perhaps he would pay Keira a visit.

 

[Keira Zale]

Keira was more than shocked as Senators physically showed to the forum. It was incredible to see the representatives of the planets truly care enough to be a part of this. She knew her statements were bold and potentially risky, but she knew in her heart it put the people first. After she spoke, the Senator of Zeltros spoke up and offered her support. She was impressed to see a Sith senator in attendance, and she heard him out as he objected.

She decided she would remain silent and address the objections after everyone had said their piece. To her surprise, the Senator of Arkania addressed the Sith Senator, voicing a lot of her own thoughts on the matter. She couldn’t help but smile as the Senator of Obroa-Skai admitted how risk averse he was. To have him on her side was more than a little heartwarming.

However, what came next no one could have seen coming. The entire room went silent as a woman stepped in and introduced herself as a Jedi. Keira’s eyebrows rose and her mouth hung open, and there were several gasps around the room. Despite rumors of them having returned, very few had seen a Jedi in person.

She remained silent, letting the Senator of Chandrila speak after her. Keira took a deep breath and looked over to the Senator of Anaxes. She had a sad smile on her face, “Unfortunately, Senator, the Protectorate simply does not exist at this point. Everything it was meant to be has collapsed because it was shaky to begin with. I will never fault you for not wanting to break away. In your shoes, it’s an especially risky decision. However, I want you to know that we will be with you if you do. You will not be alone,” Keira smiled warmly at him, “The Sith will rapidly lose support if they attack planets that secede, and that will severely weaken them more than they already are today. However, always do what is best for your people as I know you have so far. Whichever way that takes you.”

Keira then turned to the Jedi, “I’ve never seen a Jedi in person, and it’s a miracle to see you here in the flesh. Thank you so much for making the journey out here. I know it’s very risky for you to be in the open,” She avoided eye contact with the Sith, “The Republic - if we become that - will need all the help it can get. However, this is not my decision alone,” She looked around the room, “What do you all think of this proposal of the Jedi joining our cause?”

@vamp @Nor'baal @Phoenix @Insalius @Wit @FTL

 

[Gideon Hask Starr]

He kept his silence as those about him rose to support Keiras motion, one which, in Gideons eyes at least, would plunge his world into ruin. Anaxes was a world that had always been at the heart of the Empire, for as long as he could remember - indeed, Gideon himself had been raised an Imperial, lived as an Imperial, and served as one to boot. He could not fathom the Empires collapse and could not begin to understand that it might all be over, regardless of the recent broadcasts by the Sith.

”Senators, I thank the member for giving way. Indeed, you have all made compelling arguments for ceding worlds away from the Protectorate and into a Republic, but I cannot begin to reach the same conclusions as you all, that such acts will be seen as peaceful, nor treated as such. The Empire may, as you say, have disbanded, but there are a great many worlds, who civilians see themselves as Imperial - Anaxes included. It is the duty of a Senator to represent their homeworld, and that is what I shall do. Senators, Anaxes will remain as part of the Protectorate, however, we shall not take sides in whatever conflict may be coming. Anaxes will care for its people, Anaxes, shall be neutral in this undertaking, until such a time, force help me, that the Protectorate disbands.”

Gideon paused, weighing his words carefully, for they may be his last in this place.

”I wish you all my friends, good fortune as your steer your people into a hopefully brighter future, but I cannot in good conscience, do the same with Anaxes, a world that was forged by the Empire, and whose people, are undoubtedly, Imperial. Anaxes shall remain neutral in any forthcoming conflict, and I pray that your actions, do not need to lead to a disaster, for which the civilians of your worlds, shall suffer.”

 

[Verneck Aletaus]

.

Verneck Aletaus had heard the news and rushed to the discussion immediately. In the disucssion, he kept silence for a while in order to ponder his feelings about the fate of Courscant and the new "Republic". He was absolutely disgusted; he despised that they'd try to become a separatist from not just the Empire, but the Mandolorians as well. As he watched Senators both favor and turn down the proposal of secession, Verneck began to speak.

"I apologize, but in the name of the Imperial Empire, Courscant is delved too deep within the politics and economics of the Sith. Without them, then Courscant would be terrorized with violence from the Mandolorians," he said bluntly, taking a pause as he stood further, beginning to gesture as he spoke. "Courscant is one of the most densely populated planets in the world, and they strongly see themselves as Imperial Citizens, not part of some 'Republic' that contains the ideologies of conflicting worlds. This Protectorate was supposed to be a place to negotiate peace, but that has come to an end. A Republic will further create war and begin to cause Civilian casualties more than the ones that count... Courscant will remain aligned with the Sith and that is final," Verneck said with justification.

His frustration with the proposal was obvious, but he continued to keep a calm facade. "I speak for my people... and despite your rational arguments, Senator of Tirahnn, we shall keep our alignment..."

He went back into his seat as he watched the commotion and debates continue, soon responding with a simple "If we joined, then I would surely desire no Jedi interference within a Republic..."

 

[Roselle Lely]

Making Our Own Destiny​

Silently, calmly, the elderly Senator of Balmorra rubbed her thumb against the lens of an open pocket watch as she listened to the others speak. She was far from keen on having too thorough discussions in this forum which was far more sensational than that of the normal Senate setting. Greater sovereignty had always been something which one could hope to reach, but with the Mandalorian and Sith wielding great influence and possessing significant military forces, it was not something which ever seemed realistic, especially not when the Mandalorians initiated a military campaign inside the Protectorate instead of directing it towards the Sith seat of power in the outer rims. Lely's forehead furrowed whilst her thumb kept caressing the pocket watch. She was considered what stance to take, seceding to create a Republic would undoubtedly be a risk, especially when planets with strong historical ties to one faction or the other decided against it. But then, with the pledge of loyalty from the Jedi and perhaps some other recent developments, the idea might be safer than it appeared at first glance.

Concerned and aged wrinkles spread across Roselle's face as the Senator from Anaxes spoke. She held him in high regard as he was one of few who had actively proposed any motions in the Senate and it was clear to her that other Imperially influenced worlds might follow his lead. This turned out to be the case as the Senator of Coruscant soon followed Hask Starr's lead. Lely kept rubbing her thumb against the lens of the pocket watch - she thought it be best to avoid any bigger debacles this eve as their citizens needed to see unity more than ever. But at this moment, it was hard for the elderly woman to keep her tongue.

A light, yet sharp metallic sound echoed through the chambers as the Balmorran Senator snapped her pocket watch shut "We each of us, have been given an opportunity that has not been heard of in over five centuries, the chance to represent our worlds, with a mandate born not of war, but of Democratic choice." she spoke, first looking at Senator Zale and then turning her head to Senator Hask Starr with a knowing smile, well aware that she was repeating the words he spoke when first presenting his motion in the Senate. She paused and let her eyes gaze upon the Jedi who stood there to offer their services. A grateful nod would be extended to the woman. Roselle's thumb slowly traveled along the edge of the pocket watch's lid.

"Without this Imperial Empire of yours" she began, looking to the Senator from Coruscant, quite amused my the new term he had minted "It is quite plausible that the Mandalorians wouldn't be invading in the first place. And without a Mandalorian presence within our borders, the Sith will have no direct interest in striking at us either. None of us has to give up our culture, and trade can still be conducted with the outside world." she said, half expectant that her words would fall upon deaf ears. The Balmorran then turned to the others "But I see little point allowing our community to be torn apart now. Instead, I suggest that we vote on a constitutional amendment in the Senate. Perhaps something more concrete which a greater number of parties will find acceptable"

 

[Mara Zefiros]

"With all due respect, the last thing we need in this Republic are Jedi." Her words pierced the silence that had fallen over the room, earning a few stares, some curious and some offended. She turned to the Jedi. "I think I speak for all—or most—of us when I say that I appreciate the initiative. However, I see no reason for such an alliance. The Jedi Order, would of course, be allowed to operate without persecution among the Republic's borders, but we require no aid. Let me remind you that the rebellion is in a rougher place than we are right now, and having a few Force-sensitive monks to influence our politics will do nothing but turn us into the mindless slaves of another generation of religious zealots." It sounded controversial, but Mara was used to going against the norm.

"No, the Republic must rise on its own. We are entirely capable of doing so. There is no reason to get lazy and rely on others to help us get ourselves out of the hole that we're in. Of course, this is a decision that we will make democratically when the time comes. For now, I speak in opposition to joining up with the Jedi Order. Their offer is gracious, but lacks substance."

"Immediate action is key. Therefore, I suggest we vote on a concrete plan today. The Mandalorians and the Sith will not wait for us to decide what we want to do. Let us not repeat the mistakes of the Republic of old."

@Sreeya @Wit

 

[Alton Hawkes]

The Senator of Chandrila heard Aletaus and Hask-Starr speak. Honestly he just rolled his eyes and quietly shrugged. Frankly to the Chandrilan anyone supporting the Empire at this stage is just delusional with all they have done and it hurts quite frankly. Although Courscant and Anaxes may not be willing to join a new Republic, Alton knows that the people of Chandrila and others across the UP are clamor for change though. He did hear Senator Lely speak. She's a voice of reason. And then Senator Zefiros. Alton didn't agree with her stance regarding the Jedi, although she was in favor of a new Republic.

"I'm all for Alysanne's offer". he said looking at the Jedi Drast and nodded towards her. He wasn't sure on if he should address her as 'Master Drast' that just sounds weird. "The Republic doesn't need to rise on it's own, it's not 'lazy' to accept help, there's strength in having allies, especially as building a Republic is a tremendous undertaking itself." It's not as simple to saying 'Aye' when the time comes when the question is asked, there's tons of other work that goes into it as well. Even the the Jedi or the Rebellion haven't been in the best state lately, it's still something and Alton wouldn't turn down willing volunteers.

"Although, I do second voting here today however. With fighting spilling over in UP space and who knows what else could happen next, time is crucial" he stated in agreement with the Zeltron senator. There is a lot to do and as battles are being fought in UP space right now between Sith and Mandalorians time isn't a exactly a luxury they can afford.

@vamp @Sreeya @Wit @Pyrenees

 

[Valiance Waszylla]

Valiance was shaken from his reverie and puntastic book names when the Jedi made her appearance. The fact that she was a Drast amused him greatly, causing him to chuckle at himself until he realized he'd turned his microphone on. He cleared his throat, trying to save what face he could, and this made him launch into his response perhaps a bit before he was prepared to. Oh well, no time like the present, he'd just wing it. "Greetings, Madame Jedi, and welcome to our humble den of dubious discourse. I, for one, agree with our esteemed Senators of Chandrila and Tirahnn. I think having the Jedi join with us could be quite beneficial, not only from a military prospective but from being able to gain knowledge and wisdom that has been lost for the longest time. We have to look beyond conflict towards creating a sustainable future when the time for peace comes. Perhaps that was a failing of the Sith, they could never let go of their aggressive ways and truly let peace take over for a long period of time. But those are just the musings of a silly old man."

Giving the Jedi a polite bow, he turned to the host of their little meeting. "I do agree that we should hold that vote now. With the speed that the galaxy seems to be moving, pointless deliberation and hand-wringing could make us lose our chance to do something truly special for the galaxy. Once we have that out of the way we can truly start to pool our resources and let our greatest minds and hearts start crafting a Republic that will make any previous governing body pale in longevity and success. At least, that's the hope. The fact we can even act on hope shows just how right this time is for us to act. Let us become a shining light to guide the galaxy from the darkness of conflict and despair that has enveloped us for too long." He sat down again when finished speaking. Nailed it, he thought to himself.

 

[Mida Zebb]

To the Senator of Commenor it seemed like forever until he could get a word in from his chair a mere twenty feet from Senator Zale. Galactic leaders had so rudely intervened a senatorial affair, apparently refusing already to uphold the dream of the Protectorate. All this spoke in Senator Zale's favor. If the traditional factions continued to intervene here today then clearly the protectorate is a puppet easily to be disregarded.

Meanwhile, Zebb was conscious that without a stable intergalactic security force, offworld criminals would keep conducting business on his planet. Deterrence for crime disappeared together with the Sith Empire's strict and brutal laws and it was a loss heavily felt. Zebb knew that to ensure the safety of his own people he needed to help found an intergalactic security apparatus. Senator Zale's way seemed the only one where they regained some semblance of control.

Standing up from his seat, the elder Abednedo hoped he would be able to claim just a moment of the room's attention. "Commenor will stand with you on the matter of independence, Senator Zale. However, we must ensure that we do not again fall victim to the atrocities of a war fought between other factions." he paused as he guessed his next 'vote' wouldn't be much to the senator's liking, "As such I cannot agree to let the Jedi be part of our new union." he turned towards the Jedi that was present and smiled apologetically, before returning to address the floor "Right now we are lucky to be neutral. Let us remain so."

@Sreeya @Wit

 

[Regis]

Regis sat in his chair, leaning forward as his hand traced slowly along the outer rim of the cup of caf in his hand. The Senator from Arkania didn't jump to speak, instead listening to each of the other politicians make their declarations. The presence of a Jedi at the meeting had been most unexpected, even to Regis.

Although some immediately rejected the Jedi offer and others outright declared their refusal to be a part of the new Republic, Regis wasn't one for such rash action. He absolutely had his own reservations about bringing in another group of Force users to a budding government. Despite being sworn enemies of the Sith, that had its own potential problems.

Master Jedi (@Wit), I appreciate your voice in this issue, regardless of the final decision reached by the Senate, he said sincerely. The last thing he wanted was to alienate potential aid that was offered to a fledgling government, whatever his own potential misgivings.

Do you speak for your entire Order in this? Would others be willing to sacrifice their own independence to join this new Republic? he asked. If she had truly been led here by the Force as she said - whatever exactly that meant - it didn't sound as though she'd been sent specifically as a diplomatic envoy. Moreover, to become the Knights of the Republic, the Order would be undoubtedly giving up a great many of its own freedoms to serve the Republic. Surely there would be those who resented that. Although he'd been told the Jedi were quite different from the Sith, he still had his own doubts. After giving the Jedi Master a chance to answer and say her piece, Regis chose to address the rest of the Senators as well.

To my fellow Senators: I would suggest we address the issue of the Jedi within the Republic after deciding whether this Republic will exist at all, he said. In Regis's mind, the longer they could push off the topic of the Jedi as members of the Republic, the better. There were a great many ways to draw out political negotiations, and that would give the Senators more time to gauge the changing political scene of the galaxy. Would siding with the Jedi rob them of neutrality? Did they have any chance at neutrality at all? Would the Empire truly disband? Would they enter into their own civil war? There were many questions still to be answered, and Regis was a politician, after all. A diplomatically favorable position was what he was always vying for.

 

[Keira Zale]

Keira was rubbing her temples as the discussion proceeded. There was a divide in terms of the Jedi inclusion, and she could understand it. Would working with the Jedi simply invite more Sith attention? How did the Mandalorians feel about Jedi? She knew they had a mistrust of Force users, and she wasn’t sure if that extended to Jedi as well.

The direction of the forum went in a clear direction, however. It was obvious that an official vote needed to take place. She wasn’t sure how she became the forerunner of this, but calling the meeting had yielded far more than she thought she could accomplish. Perhaps there was a chance to actually make history here today.

“Very well,” She said loudly to cut off any idle chit chat, “We will begin with a vote. Today we vote to decide to disband the United Protectorate and instead govern our own planets independently. This independence will lead to a conglomerate of self governed planets that make up a democratic Republic that is neutral to Mandalorians and Sith,” Keira looked around the room, “If we are agreed to the creation of this Republic, vote aye. If not, vote nay.”

It felt strange for her to do this, but she knew it had to be done, “With that, I say aye for the formation of a Republic.”

@vamp @FTL @Phoenix @Ecclessey @Insalius @Pyrenees @ByakuyaXVTogami

 

[Gideon Hask Starr]

Gideon spoke only briefly:

"There are to many factors at play here for me to agree to such an open motion. As the Jedi are also now included in these factors, I vote Nay."