Ask Coruscant Box to Box

[Alexander Xerxes]

Lights danced up and down the stage as the crowd awaited the start of the show. The low rumble of a thousand conversations rolled across The Galaxies Opera House in Uscru District of Coruscant. Alexander Xerxes sat within one of the private boxes that kept the true elite of the political and financial spectrums apart from the rest. Within these boxes deals that would decide the fates of billions of people and billions of credits were made daily at each showing.

Today was like everyday and the box Alexander sat in was like every other box, ready to discuss business. He was not here to watch the show, it was a pleasant thing to see between blocks of meetings, but he had no real interest in what was really going on in front of him.

Alexander’s aide moved up to his side, bowing down she whispered that Senator Du of Kuat was here. “Please show him in.” He replied before turning back to the empty stage. Once Vu entered the box he would be offered any refreshment or food he desired before shown to a seat next to Alexander.

@Mad Dog

 

[Vaz]

Vaz had made his way through the opera hall, comfortably sat in his hovering pram, his security detail for the night consisted of two native humans from Kuat, Vaz usually chose to keep the people he kept happy at his side, tales of Coruscant guards gone awry were thick since the days of the old republic, and Vaz never felt the urge to chance that sort of thing, at a striking size of just over one foot tall, Vaz was not suited for combat... at all..

Vaz was athletic enough, and more than capable of walking himself, but the species that came from just about every planet but his own were generally much taller and larger than him, so to avoid getting stepped on, accidently or not, he often rode in his hovering pram when out and about.

Vaz would have to admit he wasn't one for the opera, but the show was always talked about amongst his peers, and this would mark his first actual travel to the theater, whispers of the pacts and deals made here ran rampant around the senate, an ordeal Vaz typically steered clear of in the public eye, his meeting more commonly being held in the safety of an office or the comfort of the lounge of his star yacht.

Nonetheless Vaz arrived to the posh box of Senator @Alexander Xerxes where an aide met him at the door, only a half a minute later or so he'd be shown in and a woman handling a glass would offer him an array of refreshment, Vaz would smile gently with a slight chuckle, the glass she held could nearly reach his midsection if he were to stand inside of it. He knew better than to drink the alcohol his compatriots did, his small size would lead to a much faster inebriation than theirs did.

Dismounting his pram and requesting a Tea instead, Vaz made his way to the reserved box seats while his security detail stayed behind to chat with the service staff of the box. The bright colours and the ornate decorations of the hall would not be lost on him, however he would begin with a very professional greeting that was customary among his profession, Senator Xerxes.. Vaz would say as he approached the man at his knee height, climbing onto the chair adjacent, Vaz offered his hand, though it would be considerably smaller than the human's, the gesture carried the same weight as if Vaz were the man's height.

 

[Alexander Xerxes]

Vaz appeared in the corner of his eye, if Alexander hadn’t known about the Senator’s short stature he probably would have completely missed him as he looked out towards the stage. “Ahh, Senator Du, it is a pleasure.” He replied as he took the man’s hand. Alexander had the tough time of gauging how strong to shake the Patitie’s hand without crushing the poor man.

Once that awkward moment had passed Alexander sat back in his chair. “How has your early days been treating you here in the capital Senator Du?” The Kuati representative was relatively new to his role both within his own and the Republic’s government. It would be interesting to get the man’s opinion on matters before they moved onto business.

@Mad Dog

 

[Vaz]

Vaz chuckled a bit, and nodded his head as they shook hands, Likewise a pleasure.. Vaz responded, a small but soft smile crossing his face. It seemed Vaz's reputation preceeded him, it was true he was new to the Galatic field, but Vaz truly did have a reputable resume on the global scale of politics both from Kuat, and his homeworld of Patitite Pattuna, he would need time to show the other players his ability, and this meeting would hopefully help to kick start that.

It's certainly big.. Vaz said, But I find it's important not forget to focus on the smaller things.. Vaz said with a sideways glance, observing the other senator's response at his silly joke. This was a political meeting, and once it began there would be very little room for such things, so it was always best to get it in first in the hopes of building a more inviting and friendly environment should the two disagree on whatever topics would arise, Vaz hoped tensions could be kept professional, at least for now.

Vaz glanced out toward the stage, it's bright colours were somewhat trance-like, and the music was soft and enjoyable.. for now..

Vaz looked over to the human, he'd called Vaz here for a reason, and he was soon going to find out why.

 

[Alexander Xerxes]

The lights began to dim within the building, it was getting close to the start time. The last of the crowd taking their seats before the show would begin. Alexander gave the Patitte a side glance as he finished his ‘short’ comment with regards to his life since arriving within the Senate. He wasn’t one for small talk it seemed, no worries Alexander was more than happy to just beat out a deal if need be.

Just before he could say anything else the drinks arrived, a beautiful Core World Brandy for Alexander and what appeared to be a high quality Tea for Vaz. Raising the glass towards the Senator from Kuat he smiled. “Too good health.” With the toast he took a mouthful of the amber liquid. The Hynestian closed his eyes and soaked in the warmth washed over his body from the alcohol.

“So Senator Du, I would like to know your stance on the current political race? As a Senator of one of the powerhouses of the Core, your voice will carry much weight in the coming weeks. I would like to know where it points.”

@Mad Dog

 

[Vaz]

And better fortune... Vaz responded to the toast, raising his own glass and then taking a mouthful, the tea was sublime, clearly very well made, one of the finer points of his elevated position among society. With a pleased nod, Vaz returned his glass to the holder while @Alexander Xerxes spoke.

Senator I'll be honest with the ISC border right adjacent to Kuat, I have security concerns.. Vaz explained, But we can dive into that more later, Kuat certainly has a great deal to offer the Republic, that's an undeniable fact, before I can formally announce my position on the matter of the election, why don't you go over for me some of the stronger points of your platform.. Vaz said, he wanted this exchange to be heavier on Senator Xerxes' side, with a wider flow of information coming from the hopeful Chancellor.

Vaz would grab his glass again, indicating he would be finished speaking for the moment, allowing @Alexander Xerxes to fill the gap.

 

[Alexander Xerxes]

He smiled in response to Vaz’s return of the toast. The Senator was right to be concerned about the location of his planet, it was something which Alexander himself was worried about, Kuat was one of the most valuable planets the Republic still had to its name, defending it and allowing it flourish was of key importance to a thriving Republic. Crossing one leg over the other he placed his hands on his lap as he began explaining some of his key points.

“As you may have seen on the Holo’s my key policy is to end the war with the Sith Empire as soon as possible. It is a pointless struggle that we, at our current strength cannot afford to fight. Hand in hand with that is the removal of the Jedi Order from Republic Space, it has been proven that the Jedi are the ones bringing the Imperial War Machine upon both ourselves and the Free World Alliance.”

“Above that, I am looking to secure stronger ties and alliances with both the Free World Alliance and the Independent Systems Consortium. Our Credit has taken a pounding over the past few years, rebuilding the strength in the currency as well as our own Gross Domestic Product is key. Something I hope Kuat can strongly assist us with.” He finished inclining his head to the Senator as he spoke about his planet.

@Mad Dog

 

[Vaz]

Vaz had in fact watched many of the holovids, nearly every public speaking opportunity Vaz could find on @Alexander Xerxes he had watched, especially the recent ones, the man was running for election afterall and it wouldn't do for Vaz to be uneducated on the issue of the candidates.

The man offered a handful of points Vaz very much agreed with, but a few more pressing issues, Vaz felt were not included. Senator, while I agree the war with the Sith needs to end, how would you suggest we bring that about? And futher how would you secure that is a lasting peace, and not just a temporary armistice until the Sith see that we have something they want again? Vaz questioned, I am in full support of an end to that war but such a thing would need an assurance from that historically violent organization.. Vaz added.

The removal of the Jedi, and other fringe vigilante terrorist groups is very important, we need to reassure not only our people, but the people of the galaxy that the law will be upheld by established and organized governments, not terrorists and war criminals such as the Sector Rangers, The Bounty Hunters Guild, and of course the Jedi. All of these groups need to be dissolved or at a minimum expelled from our territories, and the territories of our allies.. Vaz explained, I think we can agree fully on that point, Vaz added.

Stronger ties to the Free Worlds is very important.. Vaz stated, thinking briefly of his homeworld that lay within their borders, As well as ties to the ISC, I have one concern with the ISC.. Vaz said, They've displayed a more violent tendency than I would like to see, and have shown they're willing to go to war with groups that are inconsequential throughout the Galaxy, and the proximity of their border to Kuat is concerning, however I do consider them to be one of the few more civilized governments within the Galaxy, which is most agreeable. Kuat, by means of the KDY is one of the largest suppliers of military equipment in the Republic, however I do not personally feel my planet is well enough protected, as an irreplaceable asset to the Republic I see no reason to not have an extraordinary military presence in orbit.. Vaz explained, While I'd love to ensure a stronger peace between all recognized Government groups, I would also like to ensure my planet is prepared should such an effort fail.. I don't think I need to tell you that should Kuat fall.. the rest of the Republic will not be far behind.. Vaz added.

Kuat can most definitely help with such a venture.. Vaz explained, however continuing to sell product solely to our own military, and that of our allies will not likely have the impact I belive you're hoping for, I think it might be important to look outside our regular customer base if we're to bring in a larger income to bolster the economy of the Republic, as you can't just keep pushing the same credits around and around in circles and expect it to gain value.. Vaz said.

 

[Alexander Xerxes]

It seemed that Senator Du only needed a little push for him to open up, words flowing quickly. He had a firm head on his shoulders and definitive idea of how he viewed the future of the Republic to be. Some of his key points aligned with his, which was good considering he was lobbying for his support, others had not yet been considered by the Hynestian Prince. The Sector Rangers for one had not fallen into the Senators sights.

“A ceasefire is the immediate goal, securing a lasting peace will be much harder, if not impossible. I very much doubt that lasting peace can ever be secured within the Galaxy. There are too many people with too many different cultures and ways of thought to have a lasting peace. But I would have to speak to their representatives and see what ground we can reach. Though I promise I will not give up the Republic or its allies to secure an alliance that can easily be broken by the drop of a turbolaser.”

“I am surprised you mentioned the Sector Rangers, if I am honest they have yet to cross paths into my agenda. The fact they have done little over the past few years means they are less from the limelight and again to be honest do not sway the votes like other more contentious matters. But I am sure this is something we can discuss further as we come closer to the election.”

“The Consotirum do have a strong national pride, that is true. And even a slight bruising to that pride can cause them to lash out. So whoever becomes the ambassador to their government must be careful that is for sure. We don’t want another fiasco like Kashyyyk on our hands.”

A smile crept across his face as Vaz brought up his own planets defences, here was the little power play in motion. “As you might be aware Senator I am currently drafting a bill to go towards the Galactic Senate with regards to creating Bastion worlds to help protect all nations from aggression. We can of course look to add Kuat to that list.”

His mention of selling to outside their own and allies was a little concerning. “There are not many others who can afford your starships Senator. Do you have anyone specifically in mind?”

@Mad Dog

 

[Vaz]

Vaz was mostly satisfied with the Senator's outlook on the Sith, Your purposal on the handling of the Sith is acceptable, but I feel the need to stress that a fragile peace with the Sith is unacceptable, I understand their most driving ambition is the destruction of the Jedi, if we could leverage that for at a minimum a lasting cease fire aided by an ongoing promise to extradite future discovered Jedi to the Sith in exchange for a hopefully permanent peace, I think such a plan would have my full lasting support.. Vaz stated.

As @Alexander Xerxes spoke on the Sector Rangers Vaz felt concerned for a moment before explaining himself, Unlike inconsequential groups like the Mandalorians, and the outer rim criminal organizations, the Sector Rangers operate within our borders and the borders of our allies, their operation tactics are more akin to war criminals, and to support them promotes chaos and mistrust in the legitimate governments of the Galaxy. The formation of the Sector Rangers was admirable, and with good intentions, however what they have eventually evolved to become is unacceptable, I would like to see their organization, and like organizations such as the Bounty hunters, and the Jedi dismantled and their leadership arrested for the destruction they've caused and the civilian deaths that seem to follow them around everywhere they go.. But you're correct that's an issue for the future. Vaz explained long winded.

Senator I do not believe Kuat is under a current threat of attack by the ISC, or frankly anyone else, but I would like it to be made an asset that others would need to think long and hard before committing to assault, I would love to see Kuat become a Bastion planet within the Republic, but will need to stress that a martial law will not be tolerated with Kuat, I'm sure you know your history that Kuat's past subjugation still rings in the hearts and minds of my citizens, and that is not something I will allow them to endure again.. Vaz stated, the strength in his voice was likely surprising for a man who stood just over one foot tall.

Vaz was hoping for a chance to explain this, I'm sure you're aware that the KDY is a conglomerate, and it's subsidiaries manufacturers much more than just star ships, while credits are obviously preferable, I think we may need to look past that, if we could supply an unaligned planet with our products in exchange for either credits or vast amounts of raw natural resources or materials, we could definitely increase the general domestic product of not just Kuat, but the Republic at large.. Vaz said, Perhaps smaller organizations could be bolstered as well in exchange for the same currency, materials, or perhaps even for loyalty to the Republic? Vaz's last statement was almost more of a question, All I mean here is that the intrinsic value of materials, resources, and additional manpower shouldn't be overlooked.. Vaz added.

Just before @Alexander Xerxes would respond Vaz would pipe up again with, However, I would not see our products sold to anyone who would use them against us.. Vaz added in quickly.

 

[Alexander Xerxes]

“Again we have to wait and see on what they propose.” He replied, Senator Du seemed rather passionate about the dissolution of the Sector Rangers as well as the Bounty Hunter Guild. He understood some of the man’s frustration, both they and the Jedi acted beyond the boundaries of usual government oversight, though they often bowed down to local authority it was only after they had caused enough chaos for the authority to be aware of their presence.

“Unforuntaley most of these organsiations operate both inside and outside of our borders. So dismantling or arresting their leaders, no matter how much power the Senate invest in the Chancellor is not feasible. The best we can do is limit or outright ban their authority to act within our space.”

“That is the point of the Bastion programe, a series of orbital and surface insitllations which make a planet too costly to invade and to powerful to ignore. A bottleneck so to say for any invading force. No need for martial law, unless your government deems it necessary of course.” He replied with a smirk.

“Understandable, advanced trade talks with major governments as i said is a primary part of the first one hundred days of my term. In terms of trade deals with Unalighed planets, if they are not part of a galactic government, then direct trade deals between Kuat and that planet are permitted under our current laws without having to pass through Senate approval.” Though the Senator’s comments about trade deals with Unalighed could be interesting.

“Though perhaps the creation of a universal trade union, that all planets no matter allegiance could join may be of interest.” He said aloud.
@Mad Dog

 

[Vaz]

Vaz was accepting of his fellow senator's response regarding the organizations, even though he'd let it rest for now, he would make a point in the future to push to outlaw all three groups from all Republic territories if he could.

Heavy defensive power of Kuat would be most agreeable.. Vaz conceded, though his tone would read that he would fight tooth and nail to keep any Republic martial law from occurring.

I'll begin the leg work to expand our business relationships in an effort to vastly increase the output of the KDY and its subsidiaries.. Vaz said in agreement, @Alexander Xerxes' mention of a Galaxy wide trade union perked Vaz's interest, he'd still lobby against trade with any groups he perceived as a threat to the safety of the Republic as well as Kuat, such as the Jedi, the spiral guard, and the kowakian devil Fleets, but the prospect of broadened trade would no doubt elevate his own position of prestige.

Senator.. we've talked on your more broader ambitions, what else would you see done within the Republic? Vaz asked, If you were elected today, for instance, what would you strive to achieve? He added, Vaz was beginning to lean heavily in support of @Alexander Xerxes, but needed to know the finer points of his goals.

 

[Alexander Xerxes]

“I look forward to hearing the results of your efforts Senator.” Alexander replied. The show had well and truly begun, music was playing as the performers began to float across the stage. Hours and hours of relentless work put in to perfect a routine that Alexander was hardly paying attention to.

“Much of my broader ambitions are what I will strive towards during my first one hundred days.” He replied quickly, but sensing the Senator was after a more in-depth insight on Alexanders vision for the New Republic he expanded slightly. “Beyond those first three and a bit months, simply I wish to build a strong an independent Republic that no one be they Sith, Consortium or Jedi would knowing cross. Our power both financially and politically unrivalled throughout the Galaxy, a military that will make everyone think twice about threatening our liberty. That is my dream for our Republic.”

@Mad Dog

 

[Vaz]

@Alexander Xerxes had certainly answered his question like a true politician. All of his talking points were something Vaz could stand behind. Very well.. Vaz would say, lifting his tea to his mouth and taking another mouthful of it. For a few moments there would be silence, Vaz would be staring out at the performance occurring before them, though he could feel @Alexander Xerxes' attention was fully on him..

So how can Kuat help make this a reality? Vaz would ask, the history of the Jedi has been littered with extreme violence and destruction, and the just over a foot tall Senator would hope to never allow that to happen again.

Following his fellow Senator's reply, Vaz would state, We will need to set Kuat up as a Bastion with a higher priority than most other Republic planets, I'd like to see it be one of the first..

 

[Alexander Xerxes]

As Vaz drunk his tea Alexander slowly finished off his brandy, the alcohol slowly draining into his system. He had taken to the drink after visiting Senator Vaisra and it had since come a staple in his daily coping mechanisms. Placing the empty glass on the table, it was quickly swifted away by a nearby attendant.

“Firstly of course, your support within the Senate for my election to Supreme Chancellor. Without that nothing we have spoken about is going to happen, once my appointment is achieved the prime concern is rebuilding our financial structure. Elevating the credit to its pre-war levels and expansion of trade agreements is a must as we cannot build without money. Large manufacturing centers like Kuat will be paramount to this happening, both operating within Republic trade paths as well as personal ones.”

“As the value of the credit increases, the coffers of the Republic will become larger thus allowing us to purchase more ships and other produce from yourselves. Having the ability to quickly ramp up production is a must encase we need to defend ourselves in the future.”

Interlinking his fingers as they rested on his knee he continued. “In terms of the Bastion process, I cannot guarantee time frames. This is a bill headed to the Galactic Senate, as such needs approval from all three governments and subsequent approval and funding from them. If we do received backing we will need to make sure funds are allocated proportionately across all factions and this can take time.”

@Mad Dog

 

[Vaz]

Vaz knew the importance of the output of Kuat, and the KDY, paramount was an understatement. As he listened to the Senator speak he could tell his support would make a Galaxy of difference in the wellbeing of the Republic at large as well as Kuat. Their conversation had given Vaz the feeling that the two were very well aligned in the same direction on most political issues, however one such topic hadn't yet been covered, one final talking point that would hinge a great deal of trust Vaz would feel toward the man..

Senator, I belive we are on the same page, I understand everything is a process, and as I said I will begin influencing the KDY to begin pursuing trade relationships to bring in outside wealth into the Republic. Also, I will begin what I can to ensure Kuat's protection until the greater approval from the senate comes through, which I trust we can make a reality in the future.

Before I can offer my full support, and the support of Kuat as a whole, I do have one last question for you that I'd like your input on... Vaz began, You stated how you would refuse to give up Republic territory for peace, an admirable stance absolutely, but how would you plan to address outside influences from infiltrating the Republic, and larger the Senate itself? It's no secret these force users have the ability, through their magicks, to influence if not take full control of the minds of their victims, but that aside, my real question here is what would your stance be on any confirmed cases of corruption? Vaz asked, finishing the last drink of his tea after asking.

They were almost done here, but Vaz very much wanted to know his fellow senator's answer to this question.

 

[Alexander Xerxes]

Alexander couldn't hide a smirk when Senator Du brought up his worries about infiltration/corruption to their government or influence from Force Users. Ironic he was asking that question to the one person trying to do just that, at the highest level no less. “Well to answer the first point, we are always potential victims of corruption and influence no matter if it is from a low level gangster or the Empress of the Sith. All we can do there is stay vigilant at all times to protect ourselves and our Republic.”

“With regards to dealing with confirmed corruption, I feel it is a moot question. Any illegal action within the Republic must be dealt with as within the lines of our justice system. No matter who is the comiter of the activity, even the Supreme Chancellor is not beyond our legal system. Corruption is an illegal activity so it will be treated as such. And punishment will be handed out either by the Republic or the Justice System of the representative who committed the infraction. Whichever is in the legal standing at that time.”

@Mad Dog

 

[Vaz]

Vaz simply nodded, a standard answer to a common question, I think I'm satisfied Senator, you can count on the people of Kuat, as well as myself, to support your ascension.. Vaz said, just before his second glass of tea had been provided to him. Nodding in appreciation, Vaz took the second glass, and would raise it toward the man beside him, To a more productive Republic.. he would toast before taking a drink of the sweet liquid.

 

[Alexander Xerxes]

Alexander smiled at the Senator as he finally gave his reassurances that he would back him in the coming election. As if on cue new drinks for the both appeared at the small table between them. Picking up the glass of brandy he matched Vaz’s toast. “To the prosperity of Kuat.” With that he took a long swig of the brandy, before placing the glass back down. “Now, shall we enjoy the rest of the show? I did pay alot for this box afterall.”

_______
End Thread

@Mad Dog