Open Galactic Senate Coruscant The Galactic Senate

[Caliban Drast]

Senate Building, Coruscant​

Closed Door Meeting of Senate a Independent World Representatives to Discuss the formation of the Galactic Senate
PlEASE ASK BEFORE JOINING WITH A NON-SENATOR, NON-EMRYC CHARACTER.​

Some time had passed since Cal had last seen Thorne in person, the Senate had given him more than enough to keep him occupied. But he had tried to find out as much as he could about the man, and though he had picked up on some details, it was still nothing useful. What was he going to do with the fact that he was a Huttball fan, or that he hated Bom Trady? He had very little to help him today, so even though the Senators might think they were prepared, Caliban had the feeling that he was walking in without having done his due diligence.

He walked through the small room, big enough to comfortably hold all the representatives who would be present, yet much more intimate than the oppressively large Senate halls. This was meant to be a much more intimate discussion, they did not need the thousands of Senators that represented the FWA to be present here to hash out the details. Hopefully this discussion would not descend into the sort of chaos that had occurred when the Free Worlds representatives had met.

Cal spotted Thorne, and walked up to the man, hoping to get a few words in before the full quorum was gathered. "Mr. Thorne," he said as he held out his hand, "I am glad to see you here, I was afraid you might not come after all the confusion regarding that leak." His aide, who was standing besides him, cleared her throat and gestured towards Thorne with a slight gesture, and Cal suppressed the desire to let out an exasperated sigh. He might have thought it a small detail, but his aides thought it was worth exploring. He simply wasn't good at playing such games, but it seemed like he had to play it today. "I heard you are a Huttball fan, so I was glad to see you here. The big game is tomorrow, they say the Porgs might end up wiping the floor with Trady. You're a fan, are you not? I could arrange for you to meet them, they keep sending me tickets even though I rarely have the time." His aide smiled, satisfied that he had gone through with the little charade, but his conscience would not let him leave it at that. "No strings attached of course, just one fan sharing with another."

@The Good Doctor @The Captain @Forsythe Crowholde @darkrei9n @Darasuum @Sreeya

 

[Vyss Jakar]

It was always Coruscant, it seemed at least, when important business needed to be done. The planet would demand respect due to its history. Vyss quietly muttered to his droid as he left his ship parked at the Senate Landing Pad and walked into the offices. He had been told by his aides on Byss, partially in jest, to keep an eye on this Mr. Thorne as he was one of the biggest wildcards. The little droid floating alongside the newly-elected Senator was lovingly referred to as his second eye as it took recordings for future notes, could watch out for dangers, and more. Most of his weapons and the like were not kosher to drag into the Senate Building so he had left everyone on the ship outside besides his fusion cutter tucked away in an interior pocket. It was unwise to be completely defenseless anywhere one went, his Mother had drilled into his brain for over 80 years now.

Vyss Takar walked into the Senate building and found the meeting area in question quickly. The smaller room was still somewhat new to him as he had hardly been Senator for long at this point. Politics of Byss were easy to handle, but this was the galactic stage now for a fresh Senator. The Abyssin eventually spotted Senator Drast and Mr. Thorne together just as the Senator seemed to begin speaking. He approached with a gentle smile on his face and the droid slowly creeping up behind himself. Once Senator Drast finished mentioning something about no strings attached, Vyss introduced himself.

"Gentlemen, a pleasure to see you both here." His tone light and cheerful as he spoke, only becoming more eager sounding as he continued. "Senator Vyss Jakar of Byss. You may simply call me Vyss if you like."

The tiny floating droid chirped quietly from behind the Abyssin and he nodded towards it, "My second eye here, don't mind it. Just a record keeping droid."

@Wit @Sreeya

 

[Oluma Pwathi]

So the day had finally come, the Galactic Senate was starting to take shape and it was time for the representatives of the Free Worlds Alliance to either step up and speak for their constituents or get left out in the cold. In truth the elder Ithorian had been dreading this meeting ever since the last hearing, and not just because that same session involved a major information leak and a Senator being escorted out of the building in handcuffs. This entire Senate felt very...spontaneous to say the least, as both the proposal and the increasingly powerful young man behind it had come out of nowhere in recent years.

Was it a response to the crises gripping the galaxy, or were bad faith actors taking advantage the galaxy's state of unrest to achieve something? Or perhaps she was just being paranoid, as Oluma had nothing to go on but a strong gut feeling and an old politicians sense that government wasn't supposed to move this fast.

It wasn't like they were here to elect someone king of the galaxy, this was a formal meeting to ratify a proposal to create a democratic body. Maybe she had spent too much time away from home and her garden, galactic politics were starting to make her pessimistic. After this meeting she would take a bit of time off to process what was happening in a more comfortable environment.

Assuming this didn't turn into a debacle too...

With a cane in one hand and a datapad she'd spent all night loading with proposals and drafts in the other, Oluma strode into the Senate Hall to find two senators, as well as Mr. Thorne himself, engaged in conversation. She moved in close, waiting for the current senator to stop speaking before she could politely interject.

"Senator Drast, so good to see you again." She said, hoping the translator captured her genuinely pleasant tone, before turning to the Senator and Mr. Thorne. "Senator Oluma Pwathi of Ithor, a pleasure to meet you both."

@The Good Doctor @Wit @Forsythe Crowholde @darkrei9n @Darasuum @Sreeya @Bauren

 

[Nicolas Clément]

Looks like the show will get on the road. Hopefully without any hitches like the internal discussion about the Galactic Senate, which could have been more productive, but didn't when it ended in arrest. Sad to see.

Anyways, Mr. Thorne and other senators were in attendance. Throne didn't react well to the leak, and he was wondering how he would be in here. He was nice and pleasent at Naboo, so probably here too while not on holonet boardcast.

Senator Clément would walking through the room for the closed-door meeting. The majority of people already there are people he's familar with with, the Senators of Ithor and Coruscant, as well as Mr. Thorne himself. There was one he was unfamiliar with, one of a species that he can't say he's seen before (@Bauren). It's a big galaxy after all. What planet could he be representing? He wasn't there when he introduced himself.

Anyway, Nicolas would greet everyone present "Good day everyone. Nice to see you all again" Nicolas would nod his head and smile as he'd look through everyone present. He would then eye their outside guest (@Sreeya) "Mr. Thorne, how is it going?" he would be nice to him, maybe a nice casual conversation before things get started. "Nice to see you again as well, I hope you have been doing better and recovered well since last we met." he wished, after the apparent assassination attempt from the Sith on Thorne's life.

Now, would there be any more arriving? Or will they be able to get to the serious stuff very soon.

@Wit @Forsythe Crowholde @darkrei9n @Darasuum @The Captain

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc mostly stayed in the Outer Rim regions to further his efforts. Contrary to what the media liked to suggest, it was all taking quite a bit of time and effort. He had a successful meeting with the Queen of Naboo, and the media followed his efforts on Tatooine to create more jobs. Thyferra had been stabilized since he assisted with the bacta concerns. The Vratix he had expected to be uncomfortable with power was now calling for Emryc to return. This would open the path for him to gain a foothold. He had played his cards very methodically and it was playing out in his favor. All of his efforts, along with his popularity and obvious line to power on Thyferra was public knowledge.

As always, he was in a fashionable suit and tie, along with perfectly polished shoes. His hair was styled neatly and he had a modest chrono on his wrist that wasn’t too flashy. He was smart enough not to appear as if he were worth a million credits. Except for the cologne, which certainly smelled expensive. He would pick and choose his battles.

Emryc strode into the senate building, his silver gaze taking in all the details of the room. He thought about what the Eternal would think about having a Sith casually waltz into a place like this. No, the Eternal was overtly aggressive and didn’t have the finesse to ever pull this off.

The thought drifted amusingly from his mind right as he shook Drast’s hand. Up close, it was easier to pick up on new details of the half Sephi. He stood taller than most in the room, his shoulders broad and his frame imposing. Silver eyes were piercing, always studying and collecting data. He had a polite smile as he greeted the Senator.

“Senator Drast,” He said, voice a refined baritone, “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you in person,” Emryc’s gaze flashed towards the aide as he released Drast’s hand. As Drast spoke about Huttball, Emryc’s eyebrows rose, a grin of amusement forming on his face. Internally, the prospect of this was incredibly exciting, but his face betrayed nothing.

“I’m afraid I’m entirely too busy laying down the foundations for the Independent Systems Consortium,” He mustered a soft chuckle, “But I very well may you take you up on that offer one day.”

Emryc turned to regard the Senator of Byss, extending a hand to shake his, “Pleased to meet you. I’m Emryc Thorne,” His eyes flicked briefly to the droid before shifting back to the Senator, “I would be very interested to hear your thoughts on how one may better bolster a defense to curb the Sith problem. Out in the Rim worlds, I also have to worry about wholly criminal planets that are constantly engaged in wars. I can admit to my own limitations in understanding the best defense tactics, but I would love your thoughts on some of my plans.”

He then looked to the Ithorian Senator. Though his face didn’t betray it, he thought of the last time he had met an Ithorian - it had been on Ajan Kloss when he had helped butcher the Ithorian Jedi Grandmaster. Externally, there was nothing but a smile as he politely reached out to shake her hand.

“Senator Pwathi,” He said, “I’m a big fan of your relief efforts. I would be interested to hear your thoughts on how to address the AMS problem that cripples some of the Outer Rim planets. I have been working to help ensure that bacta gets out to a wider population in the Rim Worlds, but would love your opinions on best practices if you’d be so kind.”

Emryc then turned to Nicolas Clement, the man that had invited him to Naboo in the first place. He smiled wider at this man, shaking his hand, “I’ve never been better. It’ll take a lot more than that to shut me up,” He met the man’s gaze respectfully, “I wanted to thank you again for inviting me to Naboo and allowing me the opportunity to speak. Leaders like you truly inspire beliefs in a democracy and a system that honors all voices. I will never forget it.”


@Wit @The Good Doctor @The Captain @Bauren

 

[Maxims Tionson]

Max was not new to politics by this point but it was still odd to him that he was expected at the senate meetings. He had elected to come in his Jedi robes rather than the armored suit he had taken to wearing during most of his political interactions. Thankfully he could still fit his cigara case in his robes and that was what was really important - his lightsaber he had left on the ship and his other weapons had been given over to the senate security detail.

Wandering around the room before the actual senate discussions themselves, he noted some of the senators he had interacted with before. Of course Mr Thorne was the center of attention for now - he was working hard to improve his planets and that took time. He recognized a few of the politicians, waving to Nicolas before settling in to stand beside Morndell for a moment.

"Quite the turnout." he spoke with his customary small smile, "Thought it best to put on my best robes for it rather than the suit. Still need to get a better fit tailored in..."

Rather than make his way over to Emryc Thorne, Max merely raised a hand and gave a short wave. The man himself might have displayed no anti-Force User leanings but the same could not be said about his supporter base. He would hate to cause the man grief by having some of his support turn against him for mingling with a Jedi.

Even a Jedi here only as a representative of the Order rather than anyone with an actual vote.

@Wit @The Good Doctor @The Captain @Bauren @Sreeya @Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Siria Zale]

Things had certainly been busy for the Senator of Tirahnn and work never ceased. It was difficult enough during peaceful times to keep the merchant princes in check. Commerce under any flag was not to be overlooked. It was how many wars were waged if history was any indicator.

Siria wore a set of red and white robes that complimented her complexion. Her security was under consideration, especially in the wake of rising passions, but the woman knew that she could have her detail follow the proper procedures befitting a proper government. That meant she wasn't armed with the westar she had been practicing with nor an echani vibrosword. The woman had taken to practicing her marksmanship and fencing training lately in her free time. Fencing was really the only thing she had time for to blow off steam these days. But the Senator, like most of her peers, still relied on a bodyguards and escorts to keep her safe. In turn the security detail would need to follow procedures and leave the woman to join the others.

In the days following her original meeting with Emryc Thorne at the Sector Ranger gathering she had followed up on the work he had mentioned in the bar. The news broadcasts of him on Naboo and the holonet coverage made it hard to not see him everywhere she had gone. "He's got nice eyes." One of her attendants whispered as they looked at one of the recapped events that had been on repeat. Siria had turned to look at her with a cocked eyebrow at the comment without saying a word. "Sorry Senator." They quickly swallowed and apologizing out of embarrassment for their lapse in professionalism. "...Here are ship model statistics and registration information you asked for."

Looking away from her she waved the offered datapad away. "Hold onto that. I'll look them over when I get back. Thank you." All aspects of freight and transport were a valued commodity in the galaxy. The Senator wanted to connect the dots on what types of ships were currently in use by those that frequented Tirahnn. Mass hauling, fuel needs, armaments, these were all indicators and defining factors for how trade worked between systems. It could decide whether or not bossiness and trade was even made between two parties. As the representative of her planet, Siria Zale wanted what was best for her people and that meant thinking about all aspects of their life, even if that meant an exorbitant amount of work.

When Nicolas Clement made his greeting too all, Siria Zale would give a small nod as she entered the room. He was one of the younger more familiar senators she had met. Afterwards he eyes looked for others she recognized. More specifically, her blue eyes zeroed in on Emryc Thorne with an analytical stare. The man was hard to read, more-so than other politicians with what limited interaction she had with him.

Overhearing the the partially sephi male talk to Oluma Owathi about AMS visibly piqued her interest. The fair skinned woman said nothing at first but turned to give the two of them more of her poised attention. The spread of AMS and the existing presence in the galaxy were of great concern to her despite few in the core seeming to care. Little work seemed to have been done by any authority. Perhaps that would get some attention with some other much needed changes.

@Sreeya @The Captain @Nefieslab @Forsythe Crowholde @Bauren @Wit @The Good Doctor

 

[Caliban Drast]

Caliban was actually relieved when Thorne didn't take him up on the offer of the Huttball game. It wasn't that he would have any objections to attending a game with the man if he was as passionate a fan as the reports made him seem, but that he didn't like these political games. As useful as it might have been, he had not been excited by the prospect of using such tactics to make headways. He accepted his response with a smile and a slow nod, letting the man address the others who had gathered around them.

With a respectful nod and a smile towards the other Senators, he stepped back to let them greet Thorne, observing for a few moments to see how he dealt with them. He had had interactions with the man, but for a lot of the Senators present here this was the first encounter with the enigmatic figure that was changing the face of the galactic political stage. He understood that they would want time with him, be it to get a read on the man, or sweet talk him before proceedings got under way. For his part he was impressed by what little he was able to hear before he stepped away, the man had obviously done his research on those who would be present.

Cal moved through the crowd, making sure things were ready to begin. He spotted the Jedi Master in attendance, having met the man once before during a Senate session after the affair on Sullust. "Master Jedi," he greeted the man with a smile that had genuine warmth behind it, unlike many of his constituents he did not hold any ill will towards the Jedi and respected them for what they represented, "pleased to meet you again. Forgive me, I must rush to start the proceedings, but I would like to speak with you later. I would appreciate your views on recent events." After a short chat he would move on, making his way to the podium that was set up to the side. Towards the front of the room a series of tables had been set up in a semi-circle, where all the representatives would sit during the course of the discussion. "Friends," he spoke into the mic, his voice broadcast over the speakers throughout the chamber, "I believe we are all here, if you would please take your seats we can begin."

He stepped away from the podium, a legal droid who was going to act as the moderator for the discussions stepping up to the podium. Caliban made his way to the table that had been set aside for him. All were identical, with space for aides and server droid waiting nearby to provide food and refreshments if the representatives needed them.

Once everyone was seated, the droid would speak up, presenting the first topic of discussion to the group. "First point of discussion is brought forward by the Honorable Representative Horatio from Kuat, the criteria for membership and representation. The representative counter the limited representation for Free World and Independent planets with full representation for all planets becoming a part of the Galactic Senate."

@The Good Doctor @The Captain @Forsythe Crowholde @darkrei9n @Darasuum @Sreeya @Bauren

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc gave a brief nod towards the Jedi as he arrived. Despite his platform, there was no reason to be impolite in a diplomatic setting. He walked towards his seat, catching the gaze fixed on him by Siria Zale. The half Sephi simply offered a charming smile in return, giving her a nod as well before he took his seat.

The droid began the meeting with the first item on the agenda. Emryc leaned forward into his mic, speaking before they dove into the discussion, “Pardon my interjection before we begin,” He said calmly, “But given the animosities and tensions we have seen from the public recently, it may be in our best interests to have this meeting be viewable live to the general public across the galaxy. The nature of closed door meetings paints an exclusive picture that’s the very antithesis of democracy. At the end of the day, democracy is what I hope we are all striving towards, so I believe the generous Senators here would have no reservations about being forthcoming.”

Emryc leaned back in his seat, politely smiling. What independent planet leader wouldn’t want to see the fate of their planet decided on live Holo? What leader wouldn't want to see how the FWA saw them?

@Wit @Darasuum @Bauren @The Captain @Nefieslab @The Good Doctor

 

[Caliban Drast]

Caliban wasn't surprised when Thorne interrupted the proceedings, he was begining to realize that expecting the unexcepted from the man was the best course of action. But when he put forward his proposal, all eyes went to the legal droid that was standing at the podium.

"Provisions do allow for such a resolution, but it must be put to the vote. All in favor?"

Cal looked around at the Senators sitting on either side of him and suppressed a smile as he noticed their discomfort. That smile almost flashed on his face when they spotted him raise his hand. He didn't like political games, and if playing into Thorne's hands meant that he could drive things to work with more transparency then it was a trade he was willing to make. Besides, many gathered here might have bought into the "big worlds" propaganda that was being spread about him, that he wanted to through his weight around and trample on the small guy. Well, time to let the small guy see what they had to say. Cal had nothing to hide, did they?

@The Good Doctor @The Captain @Forsythe Crowholde @darkrei9n @Darasuum @Sreeya @Bauren

 

[Oluma Pwathi]

Her meeting with Emryc was admittedly very brief, but Oluma saw that the man was either a deeply sincere custodian of his people, or extremely good at masking his emotions. With a politician, the odds were generally 70/30 at least, so far as Oluma had seen in her career, so her initial read on Emryc was tentative, if cordial, at best.

"I do have a few proposals I could share, but AMS is far from a standard illness." That, and a firm handshake, were all she could offer in the brief window between Thorne turning to Senator Clement and the meeting starting. That was a shame, as AMS was a major concern of hers in the long haul and unless the man was genuinely depraved or fancied becoming a walking corpse, she saw no reason why anyone would lie about looking for AMS policy.

As the Senators began to take their seats, the poor aide that Oluma had outpaced on the way into the building finally managed to catch up and joined her at the Ithorian table. It was a good thing the young Ithorian had managed to catch up, as Oluma needed him to help take notes and record anything of interest. And this was bound to be an interesting meeting.

Case and point: before the first item on the docket came up for an official vote, Mr. Thorne suggested that they should make the meeting a matter of live, public record. Which, on the one hand, was the type of political power play that instantly raised all kinds of suspicion, as it was a strange request to make out of the blue at the start of a session. But at the same time, it was a chance for the more astute and well prepared among the Senators to broadcast their ideas directly to the people and that type of exposure was always good for the democratic process.

She raised her hand proudly in support of the proposal, her thoughts on the matter of Senate representation would have to wait.

@The Good Doctor @Wit @Forsythe Crowholde @darkrei9n @Darasuum @Sreeya @Bauren

 

[Vyss Jakar]

The murmurs in the meeting room came from all directions as the various senators discussed with their aides or each other in response to the proposed live broadcast. Ultimately everyone, including Senator Vyss, raised their hands to indicate agreement. No one wanted to die on that hill for now it seemed. Vyss' droid took a new position further back to serve as a camera for the room to assist the mounted camera on the other end, so the broadcast could get face views of each person speaking rather than just a room view.

"The broadcast should begin shortly." He chimed to the room happily as things booted up and holograms displaying status popped up out of frame.

While this certainly would not overtake the regular broadcasts, news stations would surely catch on and begin analyzing it. Some might tune in live if they were so inclined as well. Notification went out and the familiar hum of transmission equipment filled the room. They were live now.

"Welcome to those tuning in! We will proceed now with our live Senate discussions." The Abyssin motions for the legal droid to repeat itself for the broadcast now.

If a droid could be sarcastic and professional at the same time, this droid managed it. "Understood." It spat back before repeating itself word for word as the floating camera focused in on it now. "First point of discussion is brought forward by the Honorable Representative Horatio from Kuat, the criteria for membership and representation. The representative counter the limited representation for Free World and Independent planets with full representation for all planets becoming a part of the Galactic Senate."

A large smile spread over Vyss' face as things seemed to kick back off. He had no qualms with things being recorded. It made it easier for his own people to see what he was doing and that he was involved for them. A prominent core world like Byss would demand a voice in something this important. They would get their wish with their Senator in this meeting room.

Now all that was left was to address the agenda. Vyss was quite honestly on the fence about the discussed proposals for the Galactic Senate. Byss was deep in the core and had a voice due to their history, position, and size no matter what he chose. The people would want core power to be consolidated rather than allowing every backwater planet with an opinion to affect the core. Vyss knew galactic unity was also important to the benefit of his world. Many of his people want that as well. It was a careful act to balance in this situation.

"The people of Byss seek unity and cooperation at a galactic scale, but we are concerned about the sway of non-members on our values. I am tempted to agree with the counter proposal that the FWA should expand organically with proper representation that is qualified by our standards." Vyss articulated slowly and carefully, looking mostly to Emryc as he spoke, giving a glance to Senator Drast then back when he shifted to a question. "What assurances can I bring to the people of Byss that our values are maintained by working with groups outside of FWA influence in a Galactic Senate?"


@Sreeya @Wit @The Captain @Darasuum @Nefieslab @The Good Doctor @

 

[Morndell Avon]

Another closed door meeting, and this time Morndell prayed to whatever higher power there is that the matters that were to be discussed here would not suffer another leak like the last time – that said matters would only go out in the open when something was already approved and ready to be shared with the public.

"Indeed," he replied to Max. Morndell himself was clad in a suit, as opposed to his usual military garb. "And here's hoping that something fruitful comes out of this..." Dark eyes swept the faces present in the room. "...gathering."

The senator smiled thinly at the arrival of one Emryc Thorne, simply offering the young man a nod before heading off to find his seat. Pleasantries and small talk were never Morndell's strongest suits – he would not falter at the prospect but talking about the weather? Huttball? Mundane, everyday things?

Perish the thought.

The Chalactan senator's aides weren't present in the room. Ramone had been instructed to stay in their homeworld, overseeing important matters to be discussed with the local government in Morndell's stead. Accompanying the senator to Coruscant was Edmund, the latter opting to stay outside the meeting room to stand guard rather than to listen to "boring Senate meetings without Ramone." Morndell had a feeling that he would soon share the younger senatorial aide's sentiment if the discussion today would not progress to something more substantial.

First topic stated and a resolution posed for approval, the senator's narrowed gaze swept towards Thorne. The young man knew how to play the cards at his disposal, and played well he did.

Morndell raised a hand in approval, for once trying to have faith that no one in the room have things to hide, that this meeting would solely be what was best for the galaxy at large.

Childish, idealistic aspirations. A hope, nonetheless.

His vote acknowledged and counted, Morndell leaned back on his seat and listened to Senator Jakar's inquiry. A valid question, and one he was looking forward as to how either Senator Drast or Thorne would respond to

@Wit @Nefieslab @Sreeya @The Good Doctor @The Captain @Darasuum @Bauren

 

[Emryc Thorne]

OOC: Please link to IC threads for anything your Senator has done/any arguments you've made. Not going to be okay to make things up on the fly to undermine IC efforts.​

Emryc’s face remained impassive as everyone agreed to the meeting being open. He could tell that several were uncomfortable with the notion, but no one wanted to look as if they would stomp on democracy. Silver eyes stared as he considered the Kuat representative’s proposal. This was followed shortly by the Senator of Byss vocalizing his opinion and then asking for reassurances.

Emryc closed his eyes, recalling all his meditation and tranquility exercises he often tapped into on his ship. He exhaled slowly before he leaned forward a little to begin speaking. He had a far more imposing presence when he was actually in the room instead of on Holo. When he spoke, it was a rich baritone that was accentuated with strict confidence in his principles.

“The proposal to allow all worlds to have a seat in the Senate is a model that has failed time and time again. I would hope that the esteemed Senator of Kuat,” His gaze flicked towards that direction, “Would have observed the history of the Republic and the inefficiencies that led to the formation of the Free World Alliance in the first place. Furthermore, it would appear that Senator of Kuat has not been keeping up with the trends in the galaxy.”

Emryc looked around the room, “In case anyone else is still in the dark about this, the Independent Systems have already vocalized that they would like to form into their own government. The wheels are in motion for a consortium made up of independent worlds. The Independent Systems Consortium would elect officials to represent entire quadrants and sectors. This is because it’s absurd to try and force planets that have always operated vastly differently into the constraints that would be largely driven by the Free World Alliance. Many planets have extensive issues and their own hierarchies to work through, and they are much better served if they are given a chance to elect a sector representative who can then relay the wishes of the people to the head of the Consortium who will then be the single voice on the Galactic Senate. Tell me which makes more sense, the head of the Consortium and a few select representatives sitting at this table or thousands of individual diplomats that are already disadvantaged due to having no political knowledge or acumen?”

He looked over at the others in the room, none of them having had any especially decorated careers. Out of everyone here, he was the only one that consistently remained in the media and entirely transparent about all his efforts. Independent worlds were rallying to his cause and his actions spoke volumes. If the Senators here didn’t see that, it wouldn’t matter, because now the galaxy could.

Emryc turned to look at the Senator of Byss, “In case you haven’t noticed, public opinion of the FWA is the lowest it has ever been in recent years. If anything, you should be giving me reassurances on how Independent Systems are better served by partnering with you. In the time of conceiving the Consortium, my campaign has established stronger relations with critical planets like Naboo, began the efforts to create more jobs for the people of Tatooine and clean up crime, built new trade opportunities for Bespin, ensured that Vratix once again had power on Thyferra, aided Bothwaui with their massive AMS problem, began to help Gydine find their footing as a major ship industry again. It's clear that we know how to actually solve problems and work as an organized system."

He paused for a moment before continuing, “In contrast, the FWA worlds have continued to have attacks from the Sith. Crime continues to run rampant. The Jedi and Sith war has been going strong directly in your turf with no signs of stopping. The Chief has thrown his lot in with the Jedi,” His gaze flicked to Max, “And this is the same group that has been rumored to abandon their own planet because they couldn’t stand up to the Sith threat.”

Emryc looked back at the Senator of Byss, “So tell me, Senator, what have you done for your planet or Independent Systems that warrants the need to appease to you on the topic?” He sharply looked at everyone else in the room, “What have any of you done? The FWA has been entirely reactive. I will not subject the Independent Worlds to the same, and that is exactly why they back me for what I stand for. That is exactly why I am here in this room in front of you. That is exactly why they trust me to do this. That is exactly why I'm not afraid to boldly state that I represent Independent Systems as they're watching right this moment because they are proud to have me do it."

He finally looked back at the Senator of Kuat, “So, Honorable Representative Horatio, let me give you a suggestion for the proposal you are really putting forth here. Option one is that we allow the Galactic Senate to exist at all and if so, it would include a seat for the leader of the Independent Systems Consortium and a seat for Jedi or option two, you remain as you are today, which is the Free World Alliance. Because the Consortium is forming with or without your permission. The Independent Worlds will never conform to a FWA driven agenda.”

With that, he casually leaned back in his seat, shifting back to observing. The entire time he had displayed exactly the right amount of passion before smoothing back to a calm, cool resolve.

@Wit @The Captain @Nefieslab @Forsythe Crowholde @Bauren @Darasuum

 

[Caliban Drast]

The words he said, Caliban could see the truth of them in the faces of the other representatives. Heck, he could see them strike true for him as well. What had he done beyond running form one committee meeting to another, meeting one Senator's aides after another. Bureaucracy had tied his arms the movement he had taken office, and that was what awaited any body that followed this same system. The Free Worlds itself was slow to act, it had taken them weeks to get to this conclusion, when it should have taken hours or days. And had it not been for the fear of the anti-Force protests it might have taken even longer. No, if this was going to work then they could not repeat the same mistakes.

"Democracy," he finally spoke up, this time not even trying to think like a politician but rather speaking from the heart, "is simple in theory. We give power to the people, and their choices drive the actions of their government. But to implement it," he paused for a moment, leaning forward and resting both hands on the table in front of him, "that's a whole different challenge. A voice to all does not mean everyone speaks at once, we would just drown each other out. Instead we pick a voice and let them speak for us, they in turn get together and pick another. That is why any of us have a job, because we speak for our people. The position of Prime Minister exists because they in turn speak for us." He glanced at Emryc, hoping yet to salvage something from all this. "That is why the Independent Worlds chose you, is it not? You speak for them."

He would look around at the chamber, at the other representatives. He could sense the discomfort in the room, some had come seeking to find representation, to gain power, and now that seemed to be slipping away. Well, no matter the outcome, the Free Worlds could not afford to turn a blind eye to this new body that Emryc Thorne was going to lead. They could not live in isolation, no matter what some of his colleagues thought. The Free Worlds needed the Independent Systems, just as much as the Independent Systems needed the Free Worlds.

"We cannot repeat the mistakes of the past, letting ourselves be bogged down by bureaucracy. But structured representation, that might be our best option going forward. I supported your proposal when we met on Naboo Mr. Thorne," he would return his gaze to the Independent Worlds Chancellor, for that was what he was now, "I still support it now. Coruscant will support the Free Worlds and the Independent Systems working together, represented by their chosen voice. They continue to govern themselves, chose how they pick their representatives," he would glance at the other Senators, giving them room to breathe, "but the two bodies would work together to ensure stability and prosperity on a Galactic scale."

He could feel the glare of those who might not like the proposal, but it was too late for that. They had their opportunity, and they scuffed it. He was simply playing the best hand he could with the cards that were laid before him. But within that resentment was also confusion. His eyes fell on the Senator Horatio, who looked at him with mouth slightly ajar, eyes glassed over in confusion. Caliban sighed, not visibly, but inside he sighed like the tired man he was.

"Option one, Senator Horatio." He said, his voice showing just a hint of emotion. "I mean option one."

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[Oluma Pwathi]

As expected, the session quickly became a matter of public record as it would be highly suspect for anyone to deny this meeting a public audience, as that would imply they have something to hide. No one wanted to be labeled as the backroom dealer, trying to shut the public out of the politics that would dictate their lives and futures. That wasn't what Oluma was concerned about, her main concern was the first round of voting and how that would go now that the eyes of the galaxy were upon them.

Without missing a beat, Senators Jakar and Avon voiced their support for the broader representation model, the preferred model of both Oluma and the Ithorian people, but both Thorne and Senator Drast were quick to rebut their stance. Thorne in particular dissected the primary problems with the Free Worlds Alliance on both the macro and micro levels with a level of analytical finesse that was both brutally refreshing and deeply concerning. The unwieldy size of the FWA often meant that Senators did more for their own planets and blocs than the larger body, which was a key weakness of the institution as a whole. That didn't mean that she intended to simply sit in her chair and watch her government, colleagues, and personal role get dressed down on galactic Holonet.

"Esteemed Senators and Representatives." She stood once Senator Drast was seated, taking a firm tone of voice. "Senator Thorne is, in many ways, correct. The body of the Free Worlds Alliance has not, in recent years, lived up to our representative principles and as such we have become bogged down with problems both internal and external. Which is why we have come to this meeting, in an effort to create a more effective and democratic institution for the preservation of both our people's lives and their values. To this end, it should be clear that the FWA is not interested in, as Mr. Thorne put it, forcing compliance out of independent worlds. We are interested in the preservation of democracy in the face of rising adversity, and as the Consortium is a democratic institution I recognize that it does not need outside consent to exist."

She paused to scan the room, paying close attention to Mr. Thorne in particular to try and gauge his reaction. Both to what she had just said, and what she intended to say next.

"Furthermore, I would like to address some of the analytical oversights made in Mr. Thorne's remarks." She said, as tactfully as she could muster. "Representative institutions have failed more often historically because there have been more examples of such governments throughout galactic history. And in these examples, the interference of domineering third-party organizations such as the Trade Federation has been as much a cause for their downfall as bureaucracy and ineffectiveness. Likewise, on an individual level we senators do not have the luxury you do, Mr. Thorne, of raising vast sums of resources from member worlds to travel from planet to planet on goodwill missions. The FWA is also older, larger, and more populous than the Independent Systems Consortium, making us a more prominent target for insidious elements."

Again, she paused, this time to both catch her breath somewhat and study the room again, before moving into her final flourish.

"In short, the Free Worlds are reactive because we are the larger institution, and we cannot pick and choose whose problems we will address: our battles come to us all at once and from every angle." She held herself stoically. "Which is why I support the counter proposal for individual world membership. None of us, not the Alliance, not the Republic, not the Consortium, are a homogenous body of ourselves. I would not speak for Kuat or Byss, nor would I have them speak for me, the problems facing the galaxy are a collective threat which requires a collective solution, where the voices of each individual system may be heard so that we may address them as those suffering wish to be addressed."

And with that, she returned to her seat.

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[Maxims Tionson]

Max moved along with the rest of the Senators to take a seat, having spared the time to give Morndell a firm clap on the shoulder as a goodbye as they were separated by the seating. It wasn’t Max’s imagination that the Jedi representative was kept separate from the senators; his seat was clearly marked and the seat spacing made it clear that he wasn’t considered a senator himself.

It was something for appearances sake since everyone within the chambers knew he wasn’t able to cast votes himself. And it looked like it would be required if it was suddenly broadcast across the Galaxy. Still, his seat was equipped with a ‘vote’ button set up so that he could agree with a motion without needing to shout over the voices of dozens of others doing the same.

Just so happened that his ‘vote’ button was more of a ‘The Jedi agree’ button.

Which he pressed very quickly when Thorne and Drast brought up the motion to have the senate discussion broadcast on the holonet. Despite a reasonably leary attitude to the holonet as a whole for a Jedi, Max was confident that he had nothing to hide. He was a known commodity by this point by both public and senate – and the good thing about being a Jedi?

It was hard to be both a good Jedi and someone with dirty laundry worth a damn. Sullust was Old News by this point and had already been addressed. Hopefully nothing drastic was going to come up but, well, it wouldn’t make for interesting politics if it didn’t. He did not, however, make any motion for or against the actual proposal, instead watching as the senators cast their votes and started the discussion.

Max and the Jedi didn’t have a vote in the matter though there were pros and cons for both sides as far as he could see. Letting the senators and the ISC's chosen representatives speak, he would raise an eyebrow at the rumours addressed about Ajan Kloss. Rumours were always bound to arise he supposed, even if the location of the Temple had been known only to Sith and Jedi - the Sith had no reason to keep it quiet once their attack was done after all.

"The Galactic assembly you sit in right now is, in fact, a representative institution Senator Pwathi." he reminded the senator for Ithor as he addressed the assembly, "Indeed, many institutions are. My own Order has a Council of Jedi who are chosen by their peers, in a fashion, to lead them. The ISC is the same and the Senate has been in the past as well. While there is merit to a Direct Democracy, giving every single planet, inhabited moon and sufficiently large and independent spacestation or asteroid habitat it's own direct voice is simply not feasible."

He raised a hand.

"I am here as a representative - the Jedi Order cannot vote in either the current government or either proposed option for a new form of it. So believe me when I say it is not for influence or power that I agree with Mr Thorne and Senator Drast. However..."

Max frowned tightly.

"As a representative of the Jedi I must also state, in no uncertain terms, that the belief that any problems or injustices would go unpunished or unaddressed simply due to the size of the institution charged with addressing them? Is abhorrent." he declared, addressing the point made by Senator Pwathi about the problems faced by the FWA, "A more streamlined Senate would have the freedom to do more; to push for solutions rather than putting out fires. To have the opportunity to do so and instead use it as an excuse for poorer 'results' than a comparable institution belittles every victim of those same problems."

Max stepped back from the front of his pod slightly once he had finished. He would address the rumours of Ajan Kloss if and when they were directed at him in something other than passing. For now he wanted to make sure his opinion as the Jedi Represenative was heard on the notion.

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[Siria Zale]

Siria took a deep breath as the gathering focused on what it was they were here to do. The woman wasn't afraid of the dealings taking place in front of the public eye. She already assumed there were were recordings of meetings and eyes everywhere. This was the Core and civilization came with these. It was unavoidable and Siria believed it was to be expected and voted in favor without hesitation.

With things under way, she listened to Mr. Thorne and his speech. She cocked an eyebrow. He had a point. The Galactic Republic had its faults and in hindsight there were key faults that led to its fall. One of those inefficiencies in the Republic are what led to the rise of the Galactic Empire and Sheev Palpatine. But being idle and not moving forward was what they were already doing. Things needed to move forward and Siria Zale saw this as the best way for change to occur.

The voices of the Independent Systems had been heard by the Senator of Tirahnn. The galaxy was easily an isolating place with lightyears separating systems. This was one of the reasons things were troublesome. It was a time for metamorphosis and the Free World Alliance was just a part of it. The outer rim was more important than many people in the Core realized. The Free World Alliance was the old mold. It was the replacement and combatant of the First Order and the Eternal Empire in the wake of the Battle of Exegol. But times were different now and they were not at war with a galaxy conquering empire on the doorstep.

The people of the Independent System Consortum were going to still be there even if the FWA did not adjust and they would suffer for it. Siria did not want that for her or any of the other planets even if some of the other Senators were too pig headed, afraid or just out with their own agenda. They were all politicians here and pretending anything less only told Siria that some of them were fools.

It was when the jedi spoke up that she smiled a little bit. The man put thoughts to words well enough and that was likely why he had been selected to represent the religious order. A Jedi agreeing with the half-sephi would make for some interesting post-meeting highlights. "Well put, Master Jedi."

Siria cleared her throat before speaking to everyone else. "As representative of Tirahnn and its people, I see good things coming from cooperative work. Streamlining our institutions for the improved welfare of all governed citizens will only make things better for all planets." She raised one hand to emphasize her choice and follow it with a little bow of the head. "I will vote for your first option Mr. Thorne." She stood by her choice and took in a breath afterwards. The senator settling into her chair a little more comfortably, feeling like she had been holding in a breath for something.

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[Nicolas Clément]

Nicolas has been listening to what has been said by Throne. There is a lot of passion coming from Emryc Throne, as expected, and he was indeed busy geting stuff done. The 'Independent Systems Consortium' is indeed to going to take off. Not that Nicolas is opposed to it,as they have the right to do as they please. This is a chance however to build a good relationship with the Consortium by being apart of this Galactic Senate, of course it is for the better they do such.

The prospect of having all planets have a vote is good on paper in a Galactic Senate, in an ideal galaxy of course. But this isn't quite an ideal galaxy. The potential for a bogged down system is too great and too likely, and more effiecenticy would be better. The Jedi Master is correct, and Senator Zale is correct as well, streamlining is better.

Senator Clément would then speak for New Alderaan, opting to keep his statement brief as others already said what he's thinking. "I second all of what Senator Zale said." he would have a brief pause "New Alderaan votes 'Aye' to Option One." And with that, Nicolas has nothing further.

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[Vyss Jakar]

Senator Vyss sat with a fairly neutral expression as he listened to the responses from both Mr. Thorne and the other Senators present. He did not give away his feelings even as he was personally addressed so passionately. When things had settled enough for him to get his moment to speak, he did so in a calm manner. His tone was strong but not aggressive, and it had his usual light tone still.

"Mr. Thorne." He started off, looking to the one in question directly. "I am happy to hear your examples of the good your group has done in the Galaxy. That is not really what I am questioning here. While that looks good for the viewers at home it has little to do with my concerns. In fact, I said the opposite that the people of Byss would love to work together for galactic unity. My concern is that a Galactic Senate gives much power to outside forces that will affect the FWA and therefore Byss."

The Abyssin pauses for a moment and smiles to the floating camera for a moment, then glances to the Senators one by one who had already voted in favor of the proposal.

"Working for peace and improving the galaxy is why I was recently elected as Senator. My entire career has been spent doing so for my planet. You know this, you did your research and were sure to compliment me on such before we came in here. Theatrics are good, and you've done a great job of showing your side of matters, I am even inclined to agree that before now the FWA has done a poor job of handling affairs. Nothing I could have done about it before now. But I will not allow passionate speeches to dictate the will of the people. That said..." His tone at the end was more firm and his light-hearted voice had dissipated slightly. A shake of his head and closed eye caused a further pause in his speech before he continued, "I and the people of Byss hold no ill-intent or thoughts towards you or your new Government, Mr. Thorne. I came here intending to vote in favor of the proposal after a few questions about the Galactic Senate as a whole, not your involvement in it."

After another moment he smiled to Emryc and opened his arms palms up as he continued in a happier voice. "I will still be voting yes, but I only caution you: trying to put down others to lift yourself will only go so far. I am happy you do good in the galaxy and hope it will continue as we move forward together."

With all that said, Vyss indicated his favor to option 1.

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