A Matter of Life and Death

[Nicolás Cormond]

PvP, death, capture-disabled. Open only to Republic.​

Nicolás Cormond looked across the Senate rotunda. Hands on the edge, head raised high, the young Senator carried an unfazed aura and a strengthened resolve. The attempt on his life, the attempt on the lives of Senators Adasca to Price, had left him stronger than ever. His mind was now decided. The Cartel was a threat that could no longer be ignored or overlooked or debated upon. The argument had to be settled now. Today.

Their attack on Coruscant could not go neglected. The Hutt’s would pay for what they did, along with Nicolás’ father, who had made the fatal mistake of aligning himself with their corrupt regime. Anyone who were allies with the Cartel were enemies to the Republic. There was no way around it. That was why he stood before the Senate: to address them of the tragedy.

“My fellow Senators, last week, a date which will live in infamily— the Republic was suddenly and deliberately attacked by the Hutt Cartel, who aimed to capture and maim the Senators attending a harmless charity ball. My personal gala. What was meant to be a night of peace and unity was bloodied with a raid by members of the Cartel.” A pause, before he glanced over to Master Atreides, who he had personally invited to the Senate hearing. “Fortunately, the Jedi had come just in time to fight off the attackers, allowing many of those attending to escape unscathed and unharmed. What they have done that night cannot be forgotten.” His voice tightened. “And neither can the deeds of the Cartel.”

“That is why I am moving to propose greater legislation concerning the security of the Republic. To combat the threat of the Hutt’s, the Republic must crack down hard on internal corruption. Like Queen Lucille, who remains under investigation. Like Ergo Cormond, my own father, who I had found to be aligned with the interests of Hutt clans."

"Corruption cannot go unchecked. It cannot be allowed to fester and grow. As a Republic united, we must continue to bear the torch of democracy for the next thousand years, and not give in to the influence and infection of the Cartel.” He sighed. “I cannot say whether or not the attack was an attempt on my life, instrumented by my own father, but I can say that the attack was an attempt on the Republic.”

“Today, we must act. That is all I have to say for now.” The Senator of Brentaal retreated back, waiting to see how the other Senators might react. What they might say, what they could propose. So long as the Republic did something, especially against the work of his corrupt father, Nicolás would be content.

Spoiler: Tags

@Aberforth @Malon @Nefieslab @Wit @Minuteman75 @Faster Than Light @Fyremage

 

[Numenius Pax]

Numenius Pax was on edge.

There was nothing else for it, no other way to describe it.

He was on edge and he hated being that way with a burning, white-hot, passion that left him taking a few sips of water after Nicolas had finished addressing the senate. He set the glass back down and took a deep breath, wanting to make sure that by the time he spoke there was no emotion on display... save for the emotions he wanted to let through to better strengthen whatever case he might have.

Because right now he was... he wasn't sure what he wanted to say.

Once Nicolas had said his peace, Numenius stood at moved to the front of his own senatorial pod. He looked out at the senators who were in attendance,

"I was in attendance at Senator Cormond's party the night of the attack." he declared, taking another deep breath, "And I saw some things that I cannot ignore any longer... I saw the Jedi, who I have expressed my issues with in the past, standing tall in the defence of democracy. And I saw the agents of those who would take the power of the senate out from under us with their deeds, with their corrupting influence."

He let a sudden flare of his anger come through,

"Now I am not a man of war or a man of violence... But I am a man who believes that this senate should forever enjoy security, peace and have the burden of being the body that enacts the will of the people! I, for one, will not see our people's will hijacked by some Cartel thugs, their bosses and their bought-men!" he declared loudly, "I would propose we charge the Judicial Forces with the task of rooting out this disgusting corruption and I would stand behind any measure that would better empower them to do so. Now I... I am not a military man, so I do not know how best to do this. I would yield the floor to those who have such experience - advise us all so that we may better push for our protection and the enforcement of fair, unbiased, justice!"

Numenius nodded to the assembled senators before stepping back from the edge of his pod to take another drink of water. He hadn't been lying either... if he never had to see someone pointing a blaster at Nicolas again then he would see it as a Galaxy made better in his mind.

 

[Aurora Adasca]

.

Aurora Adasca, Junior Senator of Arkania, was far from her usual self when she stood in her pod on the Senate floor. Half a fortnight had passed since the incident, yet she could still see and hear that chaotic night if she closed her eyes. Many of her fellows had escaped unharmed, thanks to the Jedi Order's timely intervention (though several were injured in the process), but the damage had already been done. The Hutt Cartel had made itself known... and know there would be Hell to pay.

She was dressed in whites: the finest woolen clothes from her homeworld. It was night on Coruscant, the Senate had been deliberating all day leading to this moment, and the chambers were deathly cold. There was no sarcasm or meanness in her expression. Not this time. Any other time and she would have been looking for openings to chide Nico, but she had decided to postpone their games for this night at least. Nico's father had betrayed him and sold Brentaal out to the Hutt Cartel: an action that could not be allowed to stand.

The Senate buzzed for a moment after Nico finished speaking, but Aurora was quick to seize the moment. Striking a button on her pod, she launched herself into the Senate Arena and decided to add her own voice to his. "Fellow Senators. Delegates of the Republic. My... rivalry with Senator Cormond is well known, especially among our fellow junior senators. And, because of this, no one in this chamber would accuse me of being positively bias towards this man." Okay, so maybe there was a jab to be had, even if it was entirely meant as such. "But I was there the night of the attack. Though Senator Cormond bravely denies it... I believe that the attack was an attempt on his life, and I believe the perpetrators—these thugs of the Hutt Cartel—intended to kill many senators in the process."

She took a breath to allow processing, then continued: "Fortunately, as Senator Cormond indicated, the Jedi Order stepped in and, though many Jedi were injured, the lives of every senator there were spared. One must ask why we've continued to snub them while our enemies in the Outer Rim grow stronger." In this instance she was referring to both the Hutt Cartel and the new, so-called Sith Empire that had risen out of the ashen corpse of the Jedi Exiles. She shot a nasty glance at the Supreme Chancellor before returning to her speech. "We need action, Senators. There is no simple fix — no bandaid — that can repair the damage that was done during the attack. But, if we're wise enough, we may be able to correct our response to these issues so that they do not happen again in the future."

She glanced around the chamber for a moment, taking stock of the faces she could make out for reactions. Then, she finished her speech. "I place two topics for consideration before this august body: we must reconsider our relationship with the Jedi Order. They have protected us in the past, they protected us last week, and now, according to my information, they have launched humanitarian efforts throughout the Inner Rim: particularly in regards to the planet Vaklin." A brief pause, then, "The second: we must reactivate our shipyards and begin immediate conscription for the Judicial Forces. Our own military was so ill-equip that it could not protect us in our time of need. We must stop selling ships to foreign entities — all of them — and focus our efforts on building up our own fleets and defenses."

She turned and nodded respectfully towards Nico. "I believe these two actions together will help us drive the menace from our borders. As Senator Cormond has said, we cannot allow corruption, intimidation, and terrorism to vanquish centuries of peaceful democracy!" Her voice rose along with the fire in her belly. "Our enemies must be sent a message: that the Republic is not to be trifled with, our government not to be infiltrated, and our people not to be harmed and brutalized on our own soil! If we do not do something, and do it quickly, my fellow Senators, then I fear for the future and the stability of our great Republic."

Done, she cut off her microphone and directed her pod back into its place to allow the deliberations to begin. The Chancellor was, for the moment, silent, but Aurora knew she wouldn't remain that way for long. This night was just getting started.

.

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

The senator from Duros had been standing up in his pod during Nico’s speech, and the others. It had been in this very chamber that Zamid Sarlo called for a motion to keep the Republic out of conflict as long as possible. I have hoped we could’ve increase the defense funding beforehand but I was a fool. Squeezing his hands into shaking fists, Senator Sarlo thought back to what happen last week.

Cartel thugs attacked us and the only thing we could do was run and hide while the Jedi defended our sorry asses. Certainly lives were spared from death but others including the peacekeepers were wounded as a result. It every fiber of Sarlo’s being to control himself from unleashing an outburst. Instead the Durosian turn on his microphone to speak.

“The only thing, the Hutts and their leeches understand is profit and violence. Esteemed colleagues it is unfortunate that it has taken us this long to realize the Cartel desires domination at our expense. It is a terrible thing to go war, but the choice has already been made for us. To do nothing now is admit submission to those slug bastards.”

Catching his breath glancing around the senate Sarlo in a now more harsher tone than ever before.“The Cartel’s challenge to the Republic must be answered firmly and without further inaction. As representative of Duro I hereby support the motion set by Senator Adasca. The galaxy must be made safe for liberty!”

 

[Moor Todan]

An attack by the Hutt Cartel so deep in Republic space was unprecedented. The warring bands of the criminal organization had never been foolish enough to pull off an attack of this magnitude. They would generally contempt themselves with small skirmishes in the undergrounds to ensure control of spice trades. To directly target a gathering of some of the galaxy's most revered politicians was an act of war.

Luckily the timely intervention of a group of Jedi Knights had prevented the loss of lives. Perhaps Moor would really have to reconsider his opinion on the monastic order after all. The Sith had done nothing to stop the attack, and their representative had assured the Senate that Andraste's Empire would do everything in its power to prevent possible attacks by the Hutts. Not only had they failed miserably, but they had also not offered any assistance in the aftermath of the assault.

"An alliance with the Jedi Order is premeditated at this point," the Nubian representative said as Senator Sarlo's comments echoed the suggestion of Senator Adasca. Moor had stood to address the assembly; humbled, he was hoping that his colleagues would not remember his vehement critique of the Jedi during the hearing when they had finally decided to ratify the non-aggression pact. "It would only serve to draw the ire of the Sith Empire and the Republic's military is in no shape to fight a war on two fronts." The former military operative's position wasn't nearly as definite, but the audiences of the Republic were transmitted across the galaxy and announcing their intention to side with the Empire's enemies on such a public forum was pure folly.

"Surely if the NAP has taught us anything, it is that we must be careful who we chose to get in bed with." Moor's support of the pact that was now proving to be an utter mistake would be a considerable stain on his political career. It would surely affect his upcoming reelection campaign. Perhaps, what he had in mind next would suffice to forgive his mistake however: it was a bold suggestion, yet something that could very well save the Republic from its own naiveté. "My suggestion is a far more drastic one. The time of the Judicial Forces has come to an end. The Grand Army of the Republic has to be born anew, to rise from the ashes of the which the Chancellor has condemned it to and defend the interest of our union with all its might."

He fully expected many of his fellow to reject his proposal outright. Nevertheless, he hoped that some would judge his idea on its merit. They needed a centralized military force strong enough to deter even the most cunning members of the Hutt Cartel from ever attempting another terror attack. "Our military needs a greater autonomy. It cannot wait for this Senate to command it into action. If our blessing is required for a simple riposte, our Republic is doomed. This goes far beyond the mandate of a simple peacekeeping organization."

"I fully support the Arkanian representative's second motion: the shipyards of Kuat, Anaxes, Foerost and Vento need to be secured and their production reactivated at once. This Republic is undisputedly the greatest power in this galaxy and it is time we stop licking the wounds we have been inflicted over 15 years ago and act as the superpower we know we are."

 

[Anthony Price]

"And let's not forget the shipyards of Corellia." Senator price said as Senator Todan finished his statement. The Corellian disliked Mors Todan. He was the epitome of what Price would characterize as pompus. At least now he was seeing sense. They all were. Price surveyed the room before speaking again. He was there at the gala when the Hutts attacked - and this was the best opportunity he and Sarlo would have to achieve what they had hoped all along. "I will support Senator Adasca's motion to reignite our defenses, and the vast shipyards of Corellia stand ready as well. But I must protest over Senator Todan's words in his intro. The Jedi have always been our allies. This Senate has only ignored that fact oer the past few years, particulary as the Exiles showered us with displays of affection. I am all too grateful that the Jedi intervened despite this body's foolishness to alienate them further with the NAP.."

While it may have seemed to be the case, Price was not trying to be incendiary with his remarks. He had a point to be made. "I propose, in addition to the motions being proposed, that we do away with this foolishness of denying who the Jedi are to us. They have always been staunch protectors of the Republic, even when we would not stand to appreciate them. I propose we strengthen our ties with them and amending the provisions in the non-aggression pact that prevent their resources from moving through Republic space. We must stand together."


Anton had wondered when the time would come for his stance, despite being in the minority back during the vote, would be justified. He held his head high, knowing that he was one of the few who had refused to compromise back then. Hopefully whatever respect he had drawn from his peers would see that now and listen, rather than shout back in ignorance.

 

[Octadar Kithar]

So only a few weeks to settle in for Octadar and there’s already been an attack on the Senate and everyone crying for their to be hell to pay, when a few days earlier they would shoot anyone which dared set foot outside of the Republic’s borders. OK that was slightly exaggerated, but very hypocritical still Octadar thought. He had watched the Senate call the Republic to arms, and try to get the RJF boosted for war, and calling for the heads of the Hutt which dared try to attack the Republic. Ok that was also slightly exaggerated, but still...

Soon, he had enough, and after the next person finished his fine speech of patriotism and passion to the Republic, Octadar stood up, and turned on his microphone before making his speech

“Ladies and Gentlemen, this dastardly attack on the very cores of democracy and freedom by the Hutts is a disgrace to the integrity of the Republic Judicial Forces and Hutts. For the latter, it is clear and obvious that the Hutts are trying to goad us into a conflict we cannot win and have tried to do so through the most cowardly of means. Yet it is also a disgrace to the RJF as we have let some paid mercenaries into the very heart of the Republic, to allow the Hutts to have a crack at the politicians who represent the people of the Republic. However it is through no fault of the brave men and women who serve in the RJF. No, it is the fault of each and everyone of you!” Octadar glared at every Senator after saying this.

“Why ,you may ask, would I say something so far fetched? Because 3 days ago, all of you were practically calling us to become the teddy bear of the Sith, and that a military force would not be necessary. This peace keeping force had barely any funds and barely any manpower to try and protect the Republic because for years, after the Great War which should’ve been a lesson to KEEP! A whole standing army, and not disband the one we had. With a Grand Army, no force dared challenge the Republic’s superiority, and now we have let a few warlords hold a greater fleet then the full might of the Republic! The disgrace of it... And to put further insult to injury, we decided to get into bed with the very people, who raged across a galaxy, killed millions of our own and burnt down planet after planet. The treasonous intentions behind this cannot be overstated, this should never have happened in the first place, and because of the pacifistic views you all had, we now have to scramble for a strong form of a military, not laugh and wait for the others to try and catch up! It is now time to put aside all views of diplomacy, there can only be military might which guarantees the safety of the Republic!”
Waiting for a few seconds, he continued
“So I propose 2 points to this Senate.
That we reform the Grand Army of the Republic, and stick with it, beginning massive build up of naval and land forces until the skies of Sith space are grey with Republic naval vessels and land transports, and that we demand reparations and an immediate execution of the people who committed the crime of attacking the Senators from the Hutts, or there shall be military action!”
And the Senator sat down

 

[Jon Atreides]

Jon was more than a little uncomfortable about being here, not just observing from the sidelines but actually there as a somewhat active part of the Senate's agenda. The last time he was here with Master Wyck, he had thought it would be rather exciting to be able to speak with the Senate the way the little Master had, but right now he didn't really want to be the center of attention. He'd much rather just be somewhere else, anywhere else really. Because the truth was that he was here because of a lie. He hadn't saved anyone, he had himself survived because of luck and the timely intervention of other. But his presence here could do some good, or at least the Senator from Brentaal seemed to think so. And what kind of a Jedi would he be if he let his own insecurities get in the way of doing something for the greater good?

He had stood by silently as the Senators spoke, hiding his inner turmoil behind the mask of Jedi stoicism that he had been taught over so many years of Jedi training. To everyone present he was a calm, serene presence, impervious to everything that had happened and was happening right now. But he was observing them all, listening carefully to the discussion that Cormond had kicked off. Not only did it help him understand where the Senate stood in matters after recent events, but also helped keep him distracted from his thoughts, which had not been his best friends of late.

He heard it all, their hopes, their fears, their machinations, and though he had stepped into the chamber with no intention of speaking, he found himself compelled to speak. To say something. Was that also not what it meant to be a Jedi? To offer advice when he could? To help alleviate other's fears when he could? Taking a deep breath he took a step forward to come stand besides the Senator on the pod's edge, his face wincing as pain shot up his leg again with the step.

"Senators," He began softly, the pod amplifying his voice so that everyone could hear his words, "I will not presume to speak for the Council, or the Order as a whole. But I can speak as a Jedi when I say all I want is for the people of the Galaxy to be safe." His words would grow in confidence as he found his center, as all the thoughts that had been going through his mind since the gala started to come together. "The Jedi alone cannot ensure that, not against all the evil that is gathering in the Galaxy. That does not mean that I'm asking for the Republic to ally with the Jedi, I doubt we can offer you anything other than giving the Sith a reason to come pick a fight." The council most probably wasn't going to like that he had just said that. But it was the truth, and the Jedi were in no position to protect the Republic if the Sith came marching up their door. No, he had to think about the people, their safety was all that mattered.

"I do not have the gift of foresight like Jedi of legend, but I do understand evil, having faced it firsthand on more than one occasion. The Sith, the Hutts, and whatever else waits outside your borders will never be satisfied with what they have. Be it tomorrow, be it next year, be it five years from now, but they will come for the Republic. The Jedi will always be there to protect you, we will always fight for you." He paused for a second as he glanced down at his leg, at the price he had paid to learn this lesson. " But we might not be enough, not anymore. You must be prepared, you must be strong. So that when another attack such as this takes place you do not have to rely on the mistakes of a Jedi to protect you." He looked around the chamber at all the gathered senators, imagining all the worlds they represented and as always was left in awe of how much life they represented. "Gather your armies, build your fleets, be prepared for the worst.... Though I pray to the Force you never have to use them."

With that he made a small bow and took a few steps back, retreating into the far end of the pod once more.

 

[Amelys Hearst]

Amelys' first session in the Senate turned out to be one of immense passion and fervor. Today was something of an awakening. The Republic had just suffered an attack that was sponsored by the Hutts, and that had quickly given rise to a militant attitude today. The Senator for Humbarine couldn't blame them, though it always helped to have an element of caution before committing to anything.

In a lull between the fervent speeches of Senators and Jedi alike, Amelys found the opportunity to speak. "On the issue of amending the Non-Aggression Pact, I would suggest that we discuss the consequences of such an action before we commit to it so quickly." As much as there was reason to be suspicious of the Jedi, it was overwhelmingly clear that they had done more for the Republic than anyone else. On the other hand, however, amending the NAP to favour the Jedi didn't come without major implications for other party involved in the pact.

"Amending the Non-Aggression Pact in such a way as proposed would be tantamount to discarding it altogether. We may well be inviting Sith vengeance upon ourselves, and to do so before we are able to raise a significant military of our own would be a most unwise decision. We cannot act rashly; we must give serious consideration to our future prospects before we decide on this. Are we better off fighting the Sith with the Jedi by our side from this very moment onwards, or would our survival be served best by keeping both out of our space for now?"

Even if the amendment was desirable, it did not have to happen immediately. Patience was a virtue, too. Amelys was sure that the Jedi present could attest to that.

The support for the second motion was overwhelming. Amelys very much doubted that anyone could stop it even if they wanted to. But why would they? "In any event, it would only be foolish for the Republic to not possess an independent military to be able to defend our worlds. Senator Adasca's second motion has my full support. Humbarine is in possession of a significant tally of shipyards as well; I will see to it that we commit our industrial power to the Republic's defences."

She took a breath and paused before she uttered her next words.

"But if we are to commit to conscripting for the Judicial Forces, I see no reason why we should not take it a step further and revive the Grand Army of the Republic as Senator Todan has suggested. I am not militaristic, but we are surrounded by enemies. I very much doubt that any of us can foresee their destruction in the immediate future. We must plan for the long-term... and I do not think it would hurt to give us a greater palette of options. We should remember that our decision to disestablish the Army provided a window for the Hutts — who have just subject us to one of their vile attacks — to emerge as a major power."

She paused a second time to let her words sink in. "We should remember as well that the aid the Senate promised to many wartorn planets was sharply cut under Chancellor Valorum. We have let them down already; let us not let them down even more by squandering time as our enemies grow in strength. Furthermore, I can see no other way to give even the slightest credence to the idea of making a further enemy of the Sith by openly favouring the Jedi. We cannot fight them and the Hutts at once without a strong military of our own."

That was enough for now. Amelys took her seat again, and her podium retreated to the masses to await the Senate's judgement on the future of the Republic.

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

Sarlo stood by arms crossed as others spoke up. What Moor Tan, Amelys Hearst, and even the wounded Jedi named Jon advised caused him to pause and reflect. Even when provoked they must be wise in how to respond and the means to handle the crisis. He can only sigh as the non-aggression pact was brought up repeatedly. We’re getting off topic here. The old Duros was hoping to to stay quiet for a little while longer but Fondor’s representative forced his hand.

After Hearst finished, the blue humanoid took his turn again.

“Fellow Senators I will always be grateful for what the Jedi had done for us in the previous war and their actions last week. Yet the topic today does not I believe concern the Non-Aggression Pact nor the Sith. No this hearing is about the gala attack and the challenge it represents to our civilization. Even Jedi Knight Atreides says an alliance with his Order would not be our best interest in this crisis. Whether it really was the Cartel or another hostile force that has committed this open assault we must become stronger than we are now.

That is why I alter my stance to support Moor Tan’s motion to reform the Grand Army of the Republic. One that can independently defend against further aggression to our state.”

Turning toward the senator of Fondor, Sarlo added.“However I will not nor ever support an unprovoked act of aggression by us as it has been ‘suggested’ we do by the gentleman from Fondor. Our goal shoud be the protection and prosperity of our Republic, not to satisfy old vendettas.”

 

[Mori Valorum]

Mori had hoped it would not come to this. Why were the Hutts only now, after centuries contained to Hutt Space, beginning to take such an interest in the Republic? Or had she been truly so naive to believe they hadn't been there all along? Either way, the damage, now, was done. The Hutt attack on the Cormond gala was just the icing on the cake. The suspicion around Alderaan, the recent news from the Outer Rim world of Ryloth, the invasion of Balmorra, and the reports trickling in from nearby Makeb was all too much and now the gears of war were turning.

No clearer was that than right before her. Senator Cormond of Bentaal had only requested the removal of his father after the recent incident. The evidence against the elder Cormond was certainly compelling. But the other Senators were taking it farther. The Hutts' brazen actions of late had incensed them. But it wasn't the Supreme Chancellor's job to feed their cries for war. It was her job to be the voice of reason. The voice for peace. She hit the button on her central pod that would amplify her voice and silence the noisy rabble.

"Honorable Delegates of the Senate, I implore you to temper your calls for rearming," she urged. She almost sounded desperate and looked every bit her age, as though the stress on her shoulders was beginning to peel away the mask of youth. "As easy as it may be to call for action immediately, there are processes in place that must be observed. A committee must be sent to Brentaal to ascertain the truth of Senator Cormond's claims. If the assailants were indeed affiliated with the Hutt Cartel, then we can consider more... aggressive responses."

She paused a moment, clasped her hands in front of her, and continued. "As to the calls for a formal alliance with the Jedi Order, I remind the Senate that we have a non-aggression agreement in place. One that prevents us from taking either side in this religious war." Here, she fumbled a bit. She knew the Jedi had been helpful. She knew they were trying. But an alliance with them, at this moment, was just unnecessary. The Sith Empire, however threatening, had not attacked yet. "And while we appreciate the Jedi Order's humanitarian efforts within our borders, we cannot yet declare a formal political and military alliance without risking their war coming to our borders."

There. She had said her piece. She could only hope, now, that they listened to reason. @Deviant

 

[Kurt Greyson]

.

Kurt had worked as an actor for years. He'd gotten to meet the most extravagant and dramatic characters the galaxy had to offer - and boy, were there many. From Coruscant to Nar Shaddaa, he had stumbled into divas and drama queens. He'd met people who drank nothing but the finest champagne. Kriff, he'd run into a guy once who fed caviar to his cat. But this took the cake. These politicians were on a complete other level.

And it pissed him off. While they ran their mouths, victimizing themselves and acting like they had been mortally wounded (when really, the only harm done had been a few torn suits), he sat, a tired expression on his face. He had spent all day listening to this, and it was time for someone to serve as the voice of reason. And it always ended up being him.

"Warmongers." The word cut through the silence that had fallen over the Senate. Kurt rose from his seat and drew closer to the edge of the balcony. "You are all warmongers. You have fallen prey to the paranoia that flows freely through the galaxy. Like in every cold war, you have bought into every piece, every sliver of propaganda you see." He had so much to say. It was hard to stuff it all in a few sentences.

"Raise your hand-" he had to look down to stifle a chuckle, although the laugh was caused by irritation rather than amusement, "-raise your hand if you were harmed during the... the attempt." To call it anything else would be ridiculous. He stayed silent for two seconds, surveying the Senate chamber. Not a single hand rose. "That's what I thought. And you know why? Because no shots were fired. A perpetrator threw a smoke grenade and you scattered like roaches. And it just so happened, out of the Force's good grace, that Jedi happened to be there. Was it also a coincidence that the attack began during a speech about the Cartel?"

These were very bold assumptions, but there was no beating around the bush. "It seems fishy to me. It seems like someone was trying to kill two birds with one stone: demonizing the Cartel while also pushing the Jedi's good will into the public spotlight. One single smoke grenade thrown at a party - with minimal security - is enough to send all of you into a war-seeking frenzy. How do we even know the attackers were members of the Cartel? Did any of you even get a good look at them as you ran out?"

Kurt took a deep breath. "Rather than rev up the shipyards-" he looked to Moor, "-ally with the Jedi and completely jeopardize a perfectly good pact we discussed for weeks that has had no ill effects thus far-" he glanced at Aurora, "-or reorganize the military-" he stared at Numenius, "-we should consider looking into whose agenda is being pushed. Senator Cormond is right. We do need to crack down on corruption. We need to identify and investigate the perpetrators, after which we need to launch an investigation to find out who organized the whole calamity. The problem lies behind our borders. We don't need to ally with the Jedi just because they happened to be at a gala that was exclusive to Senators and the like. We don't need to throw away the NAP with the Sith just because they didn't attend an event they weren't invited to. We don't need to start a war we are not prepared for. We need to think with our heads."

"Last war drove our military into ruin. Consider what another would do to us. Consider the weight of your statements, and the agreements we have already made." With that, he stepped back and sat down. He did not care how the others would react. Kurt knew he was right. And if the other Senators thought war was a reasonable response to a smoke grenade, well, perhaps their democracy was not so perfect after all.

 

[Aurora Adasca]

Aurora wasn't sure how to feel. On the one hand, she was pleased so many senators supported the topics she had brought to the floor. On the other, she was... less than optimistic as to where it would lead. Necessary or not, she didn't want war. And then there was the matter of Chancellor Valorum and the greasy little upstart from Balmorra. Did they not see what was happening? Had already happened? No, she wouldn't stand for this anymore. Slapping her palm down on the button on her pod, she floated back out into the Senate Arena.

Her gaze first cut across at Senator Greyson. "Forgive me, Senator... Greyson, was it?" She smiled, but her lips were thin and her eyes were like ice daggers. "I don't recall seeing you during the — how did you phrase it? — attempt. I was there. Had you been listening to the testimony that has been given this evening, including that from several survivors, you would know that the only reason no Senator was injured in the fighting was because of the Jedi who arrived and bravely led us out." She paused and pursed her lips before adding, "Many of them were injured to ensure that we weren't."

"Of course, if you were there, you would also know that evidence was given that the Hutt Cartel had indeed taken up activities in and around the planet Brentaal." She was fighting to keep her voice even. Many of her colleagues, including herself, had been put in danger that night. Several Jedi injured. And this man had the gaul to make such baseless accusations? Aurora had never been so incensed in her life. "And lastly," Now she couldn't keep the venom from her voice, "before you come to the defense of the Sith, need I remind you that it was the precursors to the Sith, the so-called Exiles, who, after invading the Republic and attacking several worlds unaffiliated with their Jedi enemies, brought our military to ruin? The Sith are not our friends."

Now, she whipped her head around to face the rest of the Senate, eyes flashing with righteous anger. "—the Hutts are not our friends. I am not proposing war here, tonight, my friends. But we must seize the means to defend ourselves." She slammed her palms down on her podium for emphasis. "We cannot continue to allow corruption and terrorism to spread fear in our government and among our citizens. We must weed both of them out. Forcibly if we must." And, finally, she turned on the Chancellor. "And we must do it quickly. The investigation into the suspected corruption on Alderaan has taken months and we've received little update on the matter. Since then—" Her gaze quickly cut back to Senator Greyson before returning to the Chancellor. "—the Hutts have taken over a city on Balmorra and invaded Makeb, very close to our borders. If we sit here and do nothing, my fellow Senators..." Her voice finally began to quiet "...we are inviting them to take advantage of our weakness and attack. That is something I am not willing to stand for. Are any of you?"

 

[Jon Atreides]

Jon had seen the likes of the Balmorran Senator before, pretty boy entertainers who had leveraged their popularity to shift into politics out of fear of the day their looks left them. People, unfortunately, were gullible, and fools like this one found it easy to exploit that. The only doubt in Jon's mind was whether this Senator was a complete idiot or a complete prick. Maybe a little of both.

"Raise your hand-" he had to look down to stifle a chuckle, although the laugh was caused by irritation rather than amusement, "-raise your hand if you were harmed during the... the attempt." To call it anything else would be ridiculous. He stayed silent for two seconds, surveying the Senate chamber.

That sealed it for him, idiot it was. He waited for the senator to finish, for though he might be an idiot he was still a Senator, and that position did give him the right to speak. And despite whatever Jon might think of him, Jon was going to give the man the respect his position warranted. Besides, the longer he spoke the more Jon realized he made a fool of himself.

Waiting till the Senator was done, watching with an almost incredulous expression as he sat down almost as soon as he was done, Jon stepped forward and gestured to the Senator of Brentaal, requesting to address the Senate once more.

"Forgive me Senator, but it seemed to me that you were trying to insinuate that the Jedi were somehow behind this attack? That would indeed push an agenda, wouldn't it?" He was probably not being very diplomatic by being so blunt, but he wasn't a politician, he was a Jedi. He was meant to be honest, these political games were not for him. "You should at least give us credit for putting up a good show, hmm? I mean getting myself shot, losing a leg, that really helps push the narrative, doesn't it? We've all seen your movies, this would make for a rather unbelievable one, wouldn't it?"

His gaze was stern as he looked across the chamber at the Balmorran Senator's pod, wondering if the Sith or the Hutts had bought him off, or if this was just him acting on his own. Neither option seemed particularly comforting to him.

 

[Fenn Vaal]

Fenn sat in his pod and listened to the Senators and the Jedi Jon Atreides speak. One elbow was perched on the plush armrest of his chair, and his fingers formed a slight cup that his his an lips rested in. His gray eyes carefully watched each speaker, and only broke away to occasionally look at the mood of the Senate. Although his face bore only an interested and attentive expression, Fenn did not like what he was hearing. Who were these people that would be so quick to abolish the NAP they had only recently signed? Did they just go whichever way their mood took them from day to day?

However, Fenn was not a Senator. He did not feel that he had the leeway to chastise the Senate on all this talk of discarding the NAP. They had to know he was here, too. Fenn tried to sit in on the Senate sessions that he was able to when his duties as Ambassador did not constrain him from keeping a finger on the Senate's pulse. He felt that this particular discussion was at a precarious moment, although Senator Greyson spoke wisely. Fenn was relived by this, relieved that some cooler heads were seeing the big picture. When Greyson ceded the floor, Fenn's left hand reached for the button on his pod to speak, but Adasca beat him to it.

He had to admit, she spoke powerfully. Adasca's words gave him more to think about how he should phrase what he wanted to say. She was openly derisive of the Sith, which despite his presence here was not unexpected. The Sith would need to do more than abide by the terms of the NAP to win the Senate over as friends. When she finished speaking, the finger that he'd let linger on the floor button pressed firmly on the white square, but somehow the Jedi beat him as well. Fenn resisted the urge to frown. Everyone was eager to speak, it seemed.

Fenn waited patiently until the Jedi was finished speaking before, in a very uncharacteristic manner, rapidly pressing his button numerous times, which lit up in response. He stood from his chair and briefly adjusted his white cloak/coat so it hung presentably. "Senators, Jedi Atreides, I hope you can forgive my intrusion into matters here. Normally I would not insert myself into the Senate's discussions, but as a member of the Jedi has spoken and the topic of the NAP has arisen, I am concerned enough to make a brief statement," he said, the pod magnifying his clipped, well-spoken voice across the chambers.

"The desire to defend yourselves after an unprovoked attack is understandable. Nobody would feel any different. Now," he said as he panned his gaze across the Senate chamber to look at and engage with as many people as he could. "I will not comment on any urge to rearm your fleets or start shipyards up again; it is not my place. What I do offer counsel on is the state of diplomatic relations between our two governments. The Sith have worked hard to uphold our terms of the NAP, and I would admit that I'd be at a loss for words on how to explain to Lady Andraste that the Republic decided to end our Pact and ally with the Jedi when the Sith have done nothing untoward with the Republic since its signing. A tempered approach has worked well with the Sith and Republic, and I hope we can preserve the prospect of future cordial relations." His gaze flitted to Senator Adasca and lingered on her for a long moment before he looked to Greyson. "It is no secret the Sith have established, diplomatic relations with the Hutts. Should you wish to take advantage of the blossoming relationship between the Republic and Sith, I daresay we could organize a meeting between your government and the Hutts, should you wish to get to the bottom of the matter."

 

[Vincent Deryck]

As the conversations went on, Admiral Deryck listened to all sides of the debate one by one. He had a place in the Senate, but didn't have voting rights. He never minded not being able to vote, but the discussion had gotten to a point where he needed to exercise his ability to speak, something he rarely did. He was the leader of the Republic Judicial Forces, though in recent times he felt like his hands were tied trying to investigate corruption on his own while also trying to defend the people he had sworn to protect. It was clear that the current confines of the RJF were no longer adequate. With how large the Republic was, and the subversive nature of the strikes against those within it, older and conventional methods of peacekeeping was becoming obsolete. The galaxy was changing, all one needed to do to see this was to look outside the Republic at nearly any sector. If the Republic didn't adapt as well, they would be left behind. That was one of the deadliest threats of all.

Vincent cleared his throat, the sound echoing through the chamber's comm system during a brief moment of silence between the arguments. The attention of the chamber was drawn to him, wearing his dress uniform as he always did. He held the silence for a moment, perhaps to help clear the air of the animosity that had been starting to build between the Senators. After that, he was ready to begin. "I don't often speak here, as in all things the Judicial Forces are always a servant of the Republic. However, recent events, especially discussion in this chamber, has compelled me to speak. I look at the galaxy and I see a growing chaos, a growing darkness, and the advent of corruption. Beyond the SIth, beyond even the Hutt Cartel, groups and agencies outside the Republic are consolidating assets to either strike out at others or to prevent themselves from being struck. After a few years of apparent peace, the galaxy is beginning to spin into action again. All, except the Republic."

The Admiral looked at each of the Senators, lingering not on a specific one, but to make eye contact with them all. To both demand respect and give it in one simple action. "We WILL be left behind as the tides of chaos swell even greater and greater. It will be too late to arm ourselves if we wait until we are attacked, again, and with the size of the Republic the eight capital ships under my command cannot effectively protect everywhere at once. I will do my best with what I have, but eventually reality will trump any strategy I can come up with. In a worst case scenario, even Coruscant itself could be attacked before we could defend it if the possible enemies out there decide to strike in the cunning ways they have already shown. I am not a politician, I do not deal in proof and the need for completed investigations. I am a Tactician and it is a requirement to take even suspicions and unverified evidence into account. With what I have seen, with what I know of the threats beyond our borders, it won't be long before we are fully outclassed by them all."

Vincent slammed his hands down on the railing, his passion at the protection of the Republic spilling forth from his usually controlled tones. "I love this Republic just as much as any of you, as any citizen of any member planet. I have a wife and child on Chandrila and I consider every soldier in my command as a part of my family as well. There is nothing that I would not do to protect not only them but all of you here. This is why I request that the Judicial Forces have their yoke loosened so that we can adequately build up our forces to contend with the changing galaxy. This is NOT a call to war, nor a call to strike at planets outside our borders. This is a call to not fall behind the other powers in this galaxy to the point where it would be too late to save ourselves. A sword can act just as effectively as a shield, and it's wielder will ALWAYS be the Republic. Take my words as you will. Regardless of what you choose, my soldiers and I will bleed and die to protect the Republic from whatever threats that may come. My only wish would be that if we do die, it is to truly protect our beloved Republic instead of just delaying it's inevitable death due to inaction." As he ended his words, Admiral Deryck gave a crisp salute towards the insignia of the Republic that hung in the room before moving back to his spot. His words were done, now it was in the hands of the Senators again.

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

Nicolás was pleased. His plea to the Senate was heard, and now resounded in the hearts and minds of every man and woman in the whole assembly. Even Senator Adasca, his former rival, had chosen to set aside their differences in the Republic’s most dire hour of need. To act, they must be united. To survive, they must remain together. Nicolás knew, and believed, that only through unity could the Republic prevail against its enemies. Seeing everyone else share those same beliefs was heartening. Who could have known that an attempt on their lives would have brought them together to save the Republic? However, there were several who stood against the very idea. Kurt Greyson, while he agreed to cut down on corruption, only meant to make matters worse. Longer. Nicolás couldn’t have it.

“Wise words, Admiral Deryck. Words we should all hearken to.” His eyes fell to Fenn Vaal, who had no jurisdiction or authority to speak in this session. Of course, that didn’t mean he had no right to since Jon’s own outburst. “The relationship between the Jedi and the Sith is a complicated one. A dangerous one. But I must say that no Senator here has actually suggested we immediately align with the Jedi Order. Senator Adasca has simply recommended that we reconsider our relationship with them. There is no reason to believe that our pact with the Sith will or should end now. Another hearing will be convened concerning it. The current reality of the situation, my fellow Senators—“ He gestured out to every person in the rotunda. “—is that will the Republic stand defenseless on their own in a galaxy plagued with chaos?”

“I must agree with Senator Todan’s (@Aberforth) motion. We should move immediately for rearmament to ensure this attack never happens again. As for a reevaluation of our ties with the Jedi, it should be done so as not to provoke all-out war with the Empire. And done at a later time.” Although his respect for Aurora was earned, he couldn’t allow the hearing to fall off track. This was about the Cartel, not the Sith or the Jedi. Either way, his gaze turned over to Mori Valorum, who seemed steadfast against any idea of a revitalization of the military. The old bat was growing blind. He only hoped she saw reason soon. "Chancellor Valorum. Will you defer and give the seconded motion the floor and the vote it deserves?”

 

[Mori Valorum]

Pandemonium was the only way to describe what was happening right now. It seemed to her that no one in the chamber was really considering what she said or the implications of what they sought to do. And, as a result, she now had two choices: allow the motion to be put before the Senate, in which case it would likely pass, or reject it and sue for peace. Whatever else she was, Chancellor Valorum was a woman of peace and patience. Not haste and war. She activated her microphone again and gave the Senator of Brentaal the most respectful look she could.

And then she dissented. "I will not. These motions have been made in haste and hysteria, without any of the proper protocols. It is unfortunate, what happened at your gala, Senator Cormond; and I want justice for your attackers every bit as much as you do, but rearming the military is not the first step... or even the second or third. We need to send a committee to learn the truth of this." She paused a moment, pursing her lips. "So I will ask you this once: will you defer to allow a committee to be formed and sent to Brentaal to ascertain the truth of this attack?"

She hoped he would say yes. The look on his face, though, told a different story. And Mori Valorum knew that her motion would never pass. @Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

She was a thorn in his side, a thorn in the side of the Republic. Despite the obvious intentions of the Hutt Cartel and the overwhelming support for rearmament and an end to corruption, Chancellor Valorum was insistent on tradition. Change had to happen. It had to happen now. So, as soon as she had made her opinion known, Nicolás did what he had to do. He did what every other Senator was no doubt thinking. “Chancellor Valorum. The proof is overwhelming. Evidence on the corruption across Brentaal, evidence on the attack against the Republic, is right before your very eyes. Yet you refuse to believe otherwise. Instead, you demand we ignore this act of war and wait months for a committee to decide on what comes next. You ask for the truth yet are blind to it yourself.”

“I will not defer.” His voice bellowed across the Senate body, stronger than ever before. “The people of Brentaal and the citizens of the Republic will continue to suffer if we do nothing. By not acting immediately, we inspire the Cartel to continue in their brazen attacks. That is something I cannot allow, nor can any right-minded Senator here.” A pause, as if he was hesitating. But his mind was made. There was no going back. “If Chancellor Mori Valorum refuses to see the truth, if she is incapable of action, then I suggest new leadership is needed.” Murmurs around the Senate chambers would likely follow. “I move for a vote of no confidence in Chancellor Valorum’s leadership.”

That would certainly shut her up. Their endless debates were over. Action had to be taken, and the proposal by Senator Adasca, amended by Moor Todan, was to go into a vote. The Republic had to uproot corruption, through rearmament, once and for all. Replacing Valorum would do good for him and for the Republic. Who might take her place should the motion continue, he had no idea. But he hoped for someone strong, organized, and in line with the interests of the Republic.

 

[Dwight Antilles]

"Woah woah woah there." Dwight Antilles, the Junior Senator of Alderaan stood in his place, as he was shocked at this recent turn of events. The Senator of Alderaan was staying in the sidelines for the most part of the hearing, but with Senator Cormond's proposal for a vote of no confidence against Chancellor Valorum, Dwight Antilles feels the need to interject. "I disagree with the notion of a vote of no confidence. The proper protocols are in place for a reason. As what is going on with the investigation with Alderaan, an investigation committee should be sent to verify all these claims before we move towards anything concrete. I also agree with Ambassador Vaal's suggestion of trying diplomacy with the Hutts. It has worked very well for us and the Sith, with the bargain kept on their end despite the reluctance of some here. We should try giving diplomacy a shot with them." Senator Dwight Antilles said with an innocent smile. He was at the Gala went it was attacked, but he still has to try and protect Alderaans interests. And the Hutt's apparent interests in Brentaal.