The Grand Oasis Resort and Casino: Republic Senate Gala

[Vosrik]

Understanding dawned on Austin as Morbus revealed his work in genetic engineering for combat. Of course...no wonder he's here. Probably trying to expand his horizons, work with the Border Alliance. Smart move, ethical issues aside, the doctor thought.

"Ahh, that is...most intriguing. I actually am familiar with another doctor of similar talents aboard the Void." Dr. Wolfe thought for a moment before continuing, "He vanished quite recently though, possibly died in a lab accident. Not many seem to care, really. Personally, I'm a fairly normal doctor. Surgery, general practitioner. Apparently good interpersonal skills as well, which is why I'm a Civilian Leader now."

The doctor took another sip of his champagne, swirling the beverage around. Across the room, he spotted something a bit unfamiliar - a Wookiee using a translator box! How crude, people should learn more languages in their spare time.

Turning back to Morbus, he raised his glass. "If you'll excuse me, I must introduce myself to someone here. I'm sure we'll speak again." With that, he strode gracefully next to Senator Saracbecca.

"Translators these days. They still don't portray the subtleties of Shyriiwook, no matter how advanced technology gets." Austin, being very familiar with the Wookiee's native tongue, bowed politely. "Dr. Wolfe, at your service."

 

[Fyremage]

It was certainly a pleasant sight to see Dr. Wolfe in attendance at this event. Giving the man a firm handshake and drawing him in for a friendly embrace, Gregory said with a smile (After waiting for the introduction between Saracbecca and Austin to take place): "It certainly is a pleasure to see you here Doctor. How fares the people of the Void?" He listened intently to Austin's reply, and when a break occurred he looked at his watch to find it was time to make his way out and give his speech for the evening. Dinner had yet to be served, but the hour was drawing close and he wished to occupy the minds of those in attendance prior to mingling together to eat. He interjected when there was a moment's pause between the group of Senators he was conversing with (@Tank @Beta12 @Doghus Dei @Vosrik ) "Excuse me everyone, but I believe it is time for me to address all of my guests for the evening. I'll see you all at dinner."

With yet another warm smile, the Senator from Chandrila made his way to a small upraised podium at the far end of the dining hall, greeting and shaking hands with numerous individuals as he crossed paths with them. He eventually made his way to the podium and with a nod indicated to those manning the sound controls that he was ready to speak. He cleared his throat to test the microphone, which came to life and let out a small whine of feedback before settling and casting Gregory's voice with its intended even level. "If I have not already done so, I would like to sincerely thank everyone for attending this event. I know it is a bit peculiar to invite everyone, including my fellow Senators to a planet outside of the Republic, and to a casino no less, but there is a method to my madness for those who haven't dealt with me at negotiating tables before." A small clamour of laughter could be heard at his little anecdote, after which he continued with a gentle smile:

"I would first like to clear the air that we will not be gambling in the sense we all understand it at tonight's event. We will be hosting a few card games after dinner in a separate room, with a cover charge instead of bets being placed. The proceeds will go to impoverished peoples who live along the floodplains of Naboo who have suffered due to recent floods, and who generally have been unable to care for their needs. As certification of this, the name of the non-profit organization is "The Royal Relief Fund," directly sponsored by the nobility of Naboo. A copy of the certification to ensure the funds go where they are needed can be downloaded to your personal devices now through holo mails sent to your personal addresses, for those who wish to be conscious of this. Of course, participation is purely voluntary, and free games and events will be available for those who simply wish to enjoy their evening. Although Naboo is not a part of the Republic, my hope is that many of us as representatives of our beloved Republic can show them the level of generosity we are all capable of. And I would of course like to thank the staff of the Grand Oasis for making all of the arrangements." Taking the lead himself, he began clapping for the staff that awaited on the sides with towels and serving dishes full of hors d'oeuvres and champagne. After the clapping had subsided, he continued:

"And of course, there is also a double meaning for tonight's event I would like to share with you all. Politics is in many ways a gamble. Whether we care to admit it or not, some of us are probably guilty of 'rolling the dice' on a few Senate votes or bills based on a level of good faith we have built up with those who are sponsoring the bill, and in a way the good people that elected us into office have done the same in gambling on us, hoping that we will do as we say and represent them the way we have promised to do. I would like to think I have done that, and I'm sure that is also true for all of you here. But there is yet another gamble I wish to propose, and my hope is that those here will entertain that gamble and 'roll the dice.'"

Gregory raised a glass of champagne in Charon Chanzot's direction before continuing: "It was of course a surprise to hear of Senator Chanzot's resignation as Chancellor of our Grand Republic, and I don't think there is a single one of us that believe even for a second that she needed to do so through any professional reason. She had always done a fantastic job in taking the lead by her example and pushing us when we refused to push ourselves. But I understand as well as any man that we all have our limits, and I think it speaks very highly of our former Chancellor that she was brave enough to share her perception of her limits even though we could not necessarily see them, whether personal or otherwise. She carried on well, as losing a spouse is never easy. I cannot even begin to imagine how taxing that would be on my heart." To add a level of respect and dignity to his words, a moment of silence ensued.

Eventually, the Senator from Chandrila continued: "In honor of what Senator Chanzot has done for our Republic, and after much discussion with those who feel it to be a good decision, I would like to announce my candidacy for the role of Chancellor. I do not think I could ever replace the radiant beauty that preceded me, but I intend to try and carry the torch of what the Senator of Zeltros intended to achieve as Chancellor. Namely, pushing everyone to be at their best. Leading with strength and by virtue of example, rather than mere words. And standing up to all threats, both foreign and domestic, whatever the cost." After yet another pause, Gregory closed his speech with another raise of his glass, followed by a drink: "Here's to you ma'am. If I am voted into office, or if not and someone else is, I hope we can do your legacy justice. And I hope that if you take that gamble on me, I can prove faithful to your expectations."

 

[Magtongen]

Marzipan sits there. The chair is actually comfortable. The whole place is pretty nice in his opinion. He turns to Senator Chanzot and out of respect raises his glass.
He knows what it feels like to loose his wife, and it suddenly brings back a ton of memories. Xacuti was a pretty girl. It was love at first sight. When he got married to her and started working, it practically broke his heart being away from her. When she got pregnant he was so happy. A sudden wave of emotions go through him. Anger, sadness, guilt. He blames himself for her death, even though it was during childbirth. Sometimes, he will look into his daughter's eyes and see so much of Xacuti. Maybe he could've saved her. Now his daughter, Penne, doesn't have a mother figure in her life. Maybe he should find one. No, he cannot do that. He decided early on that he would be married to Xacuti and ONLY Xacuti. Before he could get misty eyed, he tried thinking of other things. 'Whats for dinner'? 'Is Penne okay'? He turns to Gregory.
"Congratulations. You will make a great Chancellor." He smiles.
Meanwhile, downstairs, Penne is gambling her cash away. Maybe, just maybe, she can make enough credits to move out, or even leave the Border Alliance. She wins some credits, and some creature turns to her.
"I heard that you won some credits. Give me them." Penne looks at him. It's a Rodian.
"Sir, I can't simply do that." She starts walking away.
"They are mine! get over here!" She starts running away. The Rodian lost her. She breaths a breath of relief.

 

[KrakenDaWhip]

Dr. Morbus simply nodded and watched as Dr. Wolffe left to pursue other patrons. I am sure we will, Doctor. The man was as civilian leader, so he was unlikely to offer any assistance to Morbus in terms of his research, but finding a place to live and perform his research was always on his mind. Caught in the middle of his idle musings, Morbus could see Rhone taking the stage, and knew that he would be making a speech.

Despite listening intently, Morbus let most of the nonsense about charity and the other pleasantries the host is expected to make pass through one ear and out the other. As soon as Rhone started making comments about the nature of tonight's gambling however, Morbus immediately narrowed his eyes and glanced higher.

No self respecting senator in the galaxy says ANYTHING without considering every implication of their words, both now and in the future. His wording was certainly deliberate. Sure enough, as soon as he mentioned the resignation of the old chancellor Morbus smirked, knowing his initial guess had been correct.

As a chancellor, Rhone would certainly put the peoples needs first... It would make things difficult, Morbus knew, seeing as he had such a strong stance on, ahem, 'corruption' in the Senate. However, he was still at a public event, and there were ways to do business in the Senate without the chancellor hearing. So he clapped with the rest of them, and smiled a smile that did not reach his eyes, still staring intently at the Senator. There was no doubt in Morbus's mind he would win the position, what other Senator had half his popular support these days?

 

[Vosrik]

"I'm honoured you would invite me, it has been far too long since I've visited my homeworld. The Void fares as it always has, Gregory. Cooperation will hold us all together."

Austin listened intently to Gregory's speech. With the news that he would be running for Chancellor, he heartily applauded with the rest of the guests. It would seem that Dr. Wolfe might eventually have friends in very high places. If Gregory became the new Chancellor, that would be particularly good news for the Accord. Becoming officially recognized by the Republic might not be as hard as Austin initially feared.

 

[Doghus Dei]

Doghus listened carefully to Senator Saracbecca's response. The Wookie's invitation to a meeting was most appreciated, and Doghus replied: " It would be my esteemed honour to welcome the Senator of Kashyyyk into my home. I will look into a possible date to talk, and I will send you invitation when it is time." Doghus paused for a bit, make a reminder to let Miron write down a date for Doghus and Saracbecca to meet.

Then Doghus continued: " It is unfortunate, but my wife has captured a fever. I would condemn any links to the visit of your homeworld, but it appears the climate change has been rough to her again. I cannot blame you, for only she herself can know what is best for her. It is unfortunate that she has had to cancel tonight's meeting then, although she offers her greetings to you." Doghus shivered as he spoke his words, but he also knew that Jaini would get over it easily.

As soon as Doghus had spoken, he heard Gregory comment and saw him walk to the small stage, where he and Doghus had first conversed. As Gregory spoke, Doghus could not help but feel relieved for the sense of calm that Senator Rhone showed. As Gregory began clapping, Doghus soon followed and smiled to the personnel that passed him.

The next statement Gregory made though, was the real mind-blow to Doghus thoughts of the evening. The night was for a good thought and conversation, sure, but the announcement of a real candidacy? Doghus had not thought it possible. And as Rhone mentioned the name of Charon, Doghus too raised his glass to honour her.

Doghus, as the man he was, could not withhold himself from cheering. As several fellow Senators raised themselves to congratulate Senator Rhone, Doghus too felt the urge too support Gregory's claim. " A splendid thought, my good Gregory. If there is anyone to continue Charon's good work, it would be you." Doghus said to Rhone a smiled. The foresight of Gregory as the next chancellor pleased Doghus.

After Rhone had finished his reply to Doghus, the man from Balmorra turned his attention too Senator Chanzot, once again raising his glass, saying: " You have a good successor, madam. I will support Rhone's candidacy, as I am certain will you?" Once again Doghus found himself smiling sheepishly at the former Chancellor, a habit that he had developed around her for no particular reason.