Open Coruscant Diplomatic Overtures

[Phanius Moore]

Phanius had never understood why the Coruscanti authorities used their weather satellites to make it rain. With the power to control the weather at their fingertips, one would have imagined they could have been more imaginative. Nevertheless, he trudged onward, the rain making for a rhythmic backdrop to his walk as it hammered down on the sidewalk cover. On the upper levels of the ecumenopolis, Coruscants administration provided covered walkways. That way, the prime and proper people of the skytops were not hindered by the rain their City Council had manufactured.

Of course, this meant that the water that fell on the skytops just drained down into the undercities.

The more he dwelled on the subject, the more Phanius found it to be entirely beyond belief. Why create rain, only to shelter the top-levels from it and drown the lower ones? Perhaps the councilmen of Coruscant were just capricious?

He shook his head, focusing on the matter at hand as he arrived at the Rotunda of the New Republic Senate. It was a building steeped in history and tradition, the birthplace of an Empire, and the crucible of Galactic Democracy all in one. The Umbaran walked toward the entrance and lowered his hood at the urging of the guard, wincing slightly in the receding sunlight of the late evening, before flashing his identification card. "Senator Moore. Umbara." he reminded the guard, who waved him through.

Once inside, he clung to the side of the corridor, heading toward one of the reception rooms upstairs. He checked his Chrono every so often to ensure he was not lax in his time-keeping.

Soon he arrived at the fourteenth floor of the rotunda, where a well-dressed attache was waiting by the door to welcome his guests to a modestly appointed room. He stepped inside took off his outer coat to reveal an Umbaran silk robe, bone-dry despite the efforts of the Coruscant administration. "Is everything in order?" he enquired of his aide, another Umbaran - albeit with slightly less harsh features than he - who appeared from within the room. "Yes Senator. We've prepared drinks, no food as you requested. It will be night soon, so we can raise the blinds once the sun has set."

The Senator nodded and dismissed the man, briefly taking a seat at his desk, within the Umbaran ambassadorial suite, the covered window behind him, as he waited for the first of his guests to arrive.

OOC - Open to political, business and diplomatic characters. If you want to join but are unsure if you can, just drop me a DM on discord.

 

[Raycom Hedarial]

The soft rhythmic drumming of rain against the roof annoyed Raycom as he tried to make himself listen to the recount by the young aide sitting before him in the speeder. The young Pantoran, Vyna or Vayna if he remembered correctly, was filling in for his usual attendant. She tried to brief him quickly on the last occurrences he should know about before showing himself in public politically. Sadly, she was just as startled by having to replace his aide as he was, and her nervousness made the procedure tiresome at best.

As he sat there, nodding and occasionally reacting in short sentences to the statements of the scribe, he wondered who would show their faces tonight? A minor scandal on his home planet, luckily something that never caused ripples past Byss's borders, had forced him to take some time out of the spotlight and make sure his party fell in line. That had cost him politically here on Coruscant, and he had a lot of catching up to do. At the very least, his small hiatus had spared him the annoying mentions in the tabloids.

As the speeder came to a halt near the Rotunda of the New Republic, he straightened his grey cloak and made sure the buttons weren't awry. As he left the speeder, silently blessing the architects of the building for its surplus structure amidst the rain, the voice of the Pandoran caught his ear for the last time.

"Mr Hedarial, there are still two reports about some businessmen who might attend tonight. Shall I fill you in on those in the elevator?" Turning around he carefully regarded her dark eyes. Had she stalled just to have an excuse to tag along? A meeting like tonight's was perfect for networking after all, and nearly no aide of the Senate planned to remain such forever. Cocking his head, he decided he would take her along. If Morem had chosen her as a proxy, she had to be capable and somewhat devoted to his campaign.

"Well Miss, I'd appreciate it. Just make sure to fill me in later, on anything you should learn in tonight's conversation." Offering her his right arm, elbow bent, he waited for her to link in and then lead her towards the building. Her slight blush at his open accusation of wanting to be part of the meeting was not lost on him, yet neither of them said more about the trick. One swipe of the identification card later, they were out of the rainy streets.

The elevator ride proved expectedly uninformative, yet his aide seemed to slowly find her posture. That was a nice enough development to ease him in his decision to bring her in. They still were quite early, as they left the elevator on the fourteenth floor, and surprisingly enough, it seemed like near no one else was there already. Excusing herself, Miss Vayna made her way towards the lavatory as Raycom studied who else was here already.

Approaching the only other Senator insight, he forced himself to put on a smile and mentally straightened. He had not dealt with the particular man in question beforehand, yet his reputation preceded him. Closing the distance towards the Umbaran with a few slow steps, he already raised his voice before reaching him. "Senator Moore, it is my honour. I must thank you for organising this opportunity." He offered the man his hand and a smile. Now, all that remained to be seen was, if someone still remembered him in this politically fast-moving capital.

@Nor'baal

 

[Phanius Moore]

"The honour is mine Senator Hedarial, it is good to see you back on Coruscant." Moore replied, shaking the man's hand and smiling with as much sincerity as he could muster. "I was sorry to hear you faced troubles on your homeworld, hard times appear to come in waves it seems." he remarked. Hedarial was an outspoken man in the Senate, yet, from what Moore had heard of his contributions to the debates - outspoken did not always mean incorrect.

It also meant that the two of them could, from time to time, work together on some of the less popular policies he was looking to implement when the moment was right. "The Core has certainly not been still in your absence, with expansions of the war effort, the fall of Lothal, and, of course, the movement of huge swathes of the region joining the Consortium." the Umbaran remarked, moving from behind his desk to a drinks cabinet off to one side of the room.

"Drink?" he asked, whilst pouring himself a glass of wine as he waited for the Senators reply "You've certainly picked an interesting time to make a return to front-line politics!" Moore added with a genuinely friendly tone. Now that a possible ally was back on the scene, Moore was keen to find out what Hedarials plans were in the immediate term.

Hedarial had always been reasonably combative toward the Sith Empire, he had made speeches and press announcements to that effect, and his track record of voting spoke volumes. Whilst Moore was not averse to countermanding the rise of the Sith Empire, he was somewhat more nuanced in his approach as to how best to do it.

Simply put, there seemed to be a general lack of appetite for a widespread conflict with the Sith Empire, an organisation that, thus far, had proven themselves more capable in meting out violence than the various establishments of the Senate. Plus, there was the rising threat of the Mandalorians, who had invaded a Free World Alliance planet with little to no repercussions.

Moore was keen to ensure Umbara did not share Lothals fate.

"If I recall correctly, you were quite a vocal critic of the Empire when last you spoke in the Chamber? Naturally, I can see this debate continuing for some while, and somewhat broadening to encompass the recent hostilities seen in Alliance space, noticeably toward Lothal. What are your plans to broaden an approach to hostile powers?"

 

[Raycom Hedarial]

Hedarial had to admit that Moore truly lived up to his reputation. The man showed himself particularly well informed, a delight to Byss' Senator. Whilst Hedarial's peers would call the former intelligence official a word mincer and others more blatantly an opportunist, Hedarial saw something else: a pragmatist.

"Well, the time calls for my presence. I wish I'd never need to leave, but you know how it is. While the cat's away, the mice will play. I had to get my party back in order." He shrugged. He felt no need to whitewash now and here, without another soul in earshot except for the grizzled politician before him.

Following the man to the drink cabinet at the side of the room, he cocked his head as the man spoke. "I will indeed take the drink." As he listened further, he took the second drink poured by the Senator. Indeed the core had not lain idly since his departure, and things were still evolving quickly. Moore struck a couple of points that brought a bitter taste to Hedarial's mouth.

Washing down the bitterness with a sip from the drink, he looked the Umbaran in the face and began to answer his many questions: "Well, Senator. You are right indeed. I stay appalled by most central world's lack of fortitude in the face of these volatile threads." He sighed, silently regarding his peer to spot any reaction. Moore was a man of few words, yet he was a man of stark conviction. And Hedarial had reason to believe he may be a man that could be relied upon as an ally, at least where his less popular ideas might be concerned.

"Foreign threats loom on our very borders, and internal fraction rips us apart" He shook his head as he spoke, underlining his frustration. "I am no great scholar of history, but we are walking dangerously close to past mistakes. In their fear of central government and militarism, the member states break away from the Republic, yet these secessions make us weaker by the day. There is indeed a lot of work to be done."

Hedarial knew, that his stance was both made possible but also strengthened by his own homeworlds voters. After his predecessor's failings, a silent majority had voted him into office due to his value pronounced and protective stance, but outside of Byss, the Republic nowadays had vastly different preferences. And Senators oblige their homeworlds. It was a shame that ever since the fall of the Empire, centralism and the ability to defend oneself were seen as instruments of evil only.

"I mean, the fall of Lothal is horrendous! How can the Galaxy lay idle after such an event? Why does no one rise to the task of acting? Lothal may not have been a Republic world, but we are supposed to be the Free World Alliance's ally! And how the FWA can be so dormant is beyond me. I must assume that this worries you even more, given that Umbara lies closer to Mandalorian systems than Lothal. This move should be penalized heavily."

He looked at Moore now, weighing words in his mind. He decided to speak plainly for once. "I will speak frankly, Senator, given your realistic stance I think you might agree with me. I know, that sadly few of my colleagues openly carry a strong opinion. But further, they do not carry any strong opinion. I believe it is necessary to try and act now, to either get the gears of the galactic senate in motion or force action through popular pressure. Many of our peers rest on a cushion of loyal voters... yet fear in the face of our enemies is growing. And their lasting inaction will cripple them politically if they don't take a stand soon. A few of them will have to tackle local elections soon. It might be of use to stirrup the political conversation, and wake up some Senators to the reality of the situation."

He studied Senator Moore closely now, very closely. He would normally not suggest such drastic measures openly and in such

@Nor'baal

 

[Phanius Moore]

"Internal frictions have always been part and parcel of how the Galactic Senate operates. Indeed, few would have it any other way." Moore smirked "It is, of course, vital that we mend bridges with the various Senate factions, with a view to finding a common ground, but not at the cost of healthy debate - dissent is what makes the Galactic Senate special, it is what sets us apart from others. Yet," Moore paused, gently lowering his glass to the side "- discussion should not equate to weakness."

"I believe you are correct, in part. member states splitting from the Republic, for fear of a central government and military? Perhaps. Yet why would they leave the New Republic, only to join the Consortium, if they are afraid of a strong central Government? The Consortium is far more centralised than the New Republic by my understanding?"

Moore had watched with interest as the assorted worlds of the Core had met and conspired, before making the decision to switch sides to the Consortium. He had not understood the move at first, but the more he had looked into it, the Umbaran believed he had reached a conclusion as to their real intentions. The Consortium had a strong, long-standing leader, the New Republic simply did not. "It is a crisis of Leadership that we face perhaps? On one hand, we have a fleet of ships in the New Republic, and we had a fleet and an army on Lothal - one is gone, and the other lies dormant."

He paused as he considered the comment made about his peoples proximity to Mandalorian Space. Moore was kept awake often, pondering what Mandalore had planned for his world, whether they sought to expand their territory further and further still.

"What concerns me about Mandalore is exactly who is backing them? A fleet from nowhere? A new Mandalor from thin-air it would seem? How can they have mustered such a force without being noticed? Someone is backing them, someone has fed them credits and resources, to bloat their army." Moore simply had no idea who it was, but his suspicious mind ensured that nobody was considered outside of his circle of inquest. The Hutts? The Empire? Even one of the Consortium states? All of them could have something to gain from such an act.

"But I digress. What action did you have a mind to push for?"

 

[Alexander Xerxes]

Alexander pulled the cloak tight around his shoulders as he made the short distance between the landing pad and the covered walkway which took him into the massive senate building. At least it was warm here, he couldn’t remember a rainstorm on Hynestia which wasn’t freezing, such was the nature of the planet. Brushing the water off his shoulders as he stepped under the cover, he shook his head slightly before running his fingers to reset his hair.

Night was falling and much of the day's staff for the Rotunda had departed leaving a smaller number of faces to smile and nod at him. None really knew the man, but he wore the regalia of a Senator so was shown respect. Reaching the lobby outside the reception room where a number of his fellow senators had chosen to meet that evening, a staff member took his cloak, the last of the rain shook off as it was hung in the coatroom.

“Senator Xerxes, drinks can be found at the bar or any of the rotating staff.” Said the woman as she handed over the ticket for the cloak. “Thank you Madam.” He replied with a small bow of the head before heading in.

Senators were gathered in pairs or small groups, conversations about everything from trade to war were filling the room. Picking up a small glass of champagne from a passing waiter, Alexander made his way through the room. His ears open to anyone or anything which takes his interest.

A rather pale Human, spoke about some of the current activities across the galaxy and his opinion on them. Stepping to one side so both he and the other gentleman could see him before he added his own comment. “I believe you answered one question with the other Senator Moore.” He began with a smile, “Those leaving may be doing so because of the strong leadership within the Consortium. Thorne has been its head since the beginning, how many Chancellors and Prime Minister’s have we had in that time?”

He paused for a moment taking a sip of the champagne before continuing. “Perhaps if we all joined the Consortium, we would have a better chance against the Sith and the new Mandalorian menace?” It wasn’t something Alexander personally believed in, but it was a thought which had come to him more than once. “Senator Xerxes of Hynestia.” He finished raising his glass to the pair.

@Nor'baal @ThisIsHowLibertyDies

 

[Cassian Graves]

Coruscant was in mourning, burdened with a sorrow too great to endure. The Queen of the Core Worlds, the center of the galaxy itself, was adrift. Lost and directionless without a leader. Heavy rain beat down against durasteel streets, relentless as it flooded the lower levels and crushed the very spirit of the city. Precipitation streaked down window panes like teardrops, eventually accumulating in puddles on the streets below. Today they were stagnate, tomorrow they would evaporate with the rising sun.

Every water droplet was hard and cold, soaking through clothing and human determination. It was as if Coruscant itself was crying out in pain, as if it was the tears of the New Republic that fell from dark storm clouds overhead, cleansing the blood stained streets that led from 500 Republica.

Kiacro, persistent as ever, had done his best to convince the Zeltron to hail a cab, but Cassian insisted on walking. He needed to clear his head, to center the heavy thoughts that bogged him down, and to see Coruscant for himself. Not from the backseat of a taxi cab racing along the skylanes but from the ground, along its streets and alleyways.

The Zeltron ducked into the Atrium of the Senate, passing through security at the Great Door. Within the halls of the Rotunda, flags still hung at half mast. Blue eyes roamed over the statues that lined the circular chamber, heroes of the Republic and Jedi alike. Silently, he wondered if Emil Ro would soon be counted among them, his small frame finally towering over his peers. Cassian had been a vocal critic of the Supreme Chancellor during his lifetime, but the Zeltron was and continued to be saddened by the news of his passing, despite their political differences. Emil Ro wasn't the only one to die that day. A part of the New Republic had died with him. Perhaps a part of the galaxy.

Dark days lie ahead, and not just for the New Republic. For the Free Worlds Alliance as well, for its planets and citizens. Cassian feared this was only the beginning.

Avoiding the elevators, the Senator of Onderon opted to take the stairs all the way up to the fourteenth floor. Water stained the carpet in his wake as he made his way to the Umburan ambassadorial suite. At the door he shed the dark overcoat that clung to his three piece suit, the outer garment taking the brunt of the rainstorm.

Running a hand through sopping wet hair, Cassian strolled further into the ambassadorial suite, blue eyes bouncing from one man to the next. A stag party. Great.

"Good evening, gentlemen," he smiled, offering a small wave. "Sorry I'm late."

The Zeltron wandered over to the drinks table first, set on fixing himself a drink before he joined the others. While there, he pulled his phone out and sent Jin Vaisra (@Song ) a quick text message. Maybe he couldn't resist getting another jab in at the Senator of Fondor. Maybe he was trying to get the snake out of hiding. Maybe it was a little of both.

@Nor'baal @ThisIsHowLibertyDies @Braden

 

[Korre Belasi]

Phanius Moore, the senator of Umbara, was someone Korre had yet the chance to speak with on her own. Since the happening was on Coruscant and the Prime Minister already happened to be there, she had decided to attend. Like many others, she was saddened by the late Chancellor's death, but there was little time for mourning with war at her doorstep.

The red-headed woman wore a tan and black pant suit. It was different than the attire she usually dawned for these events, but she was coming from a meeting, so long skirts were disregarded for the thick fabric of pants. As always though, the Prime Minister's face was nothing but friendly as she arrived and entered into the social.

Moore was speaking with what Korre believed were two New Republic senators, and a familiar pink man was also making his way over to join them. "Graves." She was glad he was here, at least. The Belascan liked to think that at least a bit of the Zeltron's charisma was his own personality. Rather than immediately go join them, the Prime Minister made her way over to wherever drinks were being served to procure something for herself.

"It seems to be a New Republic and Free Worlds event, so far," Korre made note of as she chose a drink. The ginger raised the glass to her lips, then made her way over to where the group was forming. "Gentlemen," she greeted, still smiling. With all the men in the room, it reminded her of a social event she'd attended a long time ago. It had been the late Ro, Vaisra, York...and her.

She didn't know anyone here, minus Graves, all that well though. Hopefully that would change, because Korre did not intend to leave without establishing new connections.

tags: @Nor'baal @llamallove @Braden @ThisIsHowLibertyDies

 

[Galek Ordalos]

It was a last minute decision for Galek to attend the gathering hosted by Senator Moore. Luckily, the Induparan already planned upon being in the Core for other business, and it had been quite some time since he last had the opportunity to socialize with his Senatorial peers. Truth be told The recent expansion of the ISC - bringing famed worlds such as Corellia and Cato Nemoidia under their wing - meant he was busier than ever. Helping to manage a flourishing Galactic Government left Galek with little time for anything else.

Not that he really expected his colleagues in the New Republic of Free Worlds to be able to relate.

Galek stepped out of the opened door of his luxury speeder, ducking beneath the cover of a waiting umbrella. Flanked by security droids, the Governor began to make his way towards the Senate building - allowing his hazel eyes to wander across the flags fluttering at half-mast and the glittering statues that lined the way.

It was the Induparan’s first time on Coruscant since the assassination of the Chancellor, and it was clear that his sudden and tragic death were still sending shockwaves throughout the Galaxy. While he had openly criticized and sparred with Emil in the Senate chamber, the Induparan felt no lack of sorrow over what had occured.

Making his way through the Rotunda of the Senate, passing through security before finally strolling into the ambassadorial suite. Galek allowed his hazel eyes to flick across those who had already arrived. The Induparan prince was dressed in a jet black sherwani with a matching, embroided dupatta draped across his shoulder, the air lightly scented with his cologne. His outfit was accessorized with his usual stylish chrono and assortment of rings, while his black hair was neatled combed and styled into place.

Swiping a glass from a passing tray, Galek made his way towards the group of assembled diplomats - flashing the group a polite smile. “Gentleman,” His eyes flicked between the New Republic and FWA Senators, giving them a small nod. While he knew Cassian and Raycom well enough from his time in the Senate, his gaze lingered upon Alexander and Phantos specifically. “Galek Ordalos of Indupar. A pleasure.”

Galek’s attention then quickly turned towards Korre, lips tugging upwards as he stepped towards the Prime Minister. “Prime Minister Belasi,” He said smoothly, his voice tinged in that characteristic sing-song accent. “It is wonderful to see you, as always. You look lovely.”

@Nor'baal @llamallove @lizziie @Braden @ThisIsHowLibertyDies

 

[Tristodd Brentioch]

Tristodd never thought that he would return to the New Republic Senate building after Brentaal defected from the Republic. He had really missed this building. The Brentaalan remembered with affection the times that he would arrive early to prepare Sibyl’s things for the meetings. These thoughts overwhelmed him with nostalgia. The last time that he came here seemed to have happened ages ago.

This time he was there because of a party organized by Phanius Moore of Umbara. Technically, the invitation for this party was for Sibyl, but she sent him there as her representative. The Governor had said that it was because she wasn’t feeling well, but he knew that it was probably because she was furious about that tabloid regarding a possible relationship between her and that Gungan actor. She probably wanted to dig a hole and disappear.

When he arrived at the building, Tristodd had presented his ID and invitation to the guards. After a quick look at them, the Brentaalan were allowed to enter. While he walked through the corridors, the young man once again felt the nostalgia coming to him. A smile appeared on his lips when he passed next to a certain room. He remembered the time that a Rodian ambassador had hugged Sibyl there. He ended up needing to control himself to not laugh at her face.

Before entering the room where the party was happening, Tristodd took a deep breath and straightened his suit. This was the first time that he came to a political party like this one alone. His uncle always said that he should go out more times, so maybe it could be good. However, he still preferred to spend this time with his children.

After he gathered enough courage, the Brentaalan entered the room. The place was well decorated and some guests had already arrived. A smile appeared on his lips when he saw Graves among them. At least he would have someone to talk to during it.

“Good night, gentlemen. I’m Tristodd Brentioch. Governor Lassiter couldn’t come due to feeling ill. She sent me in her place.” he said to the three Senators that he didn’t know and to Governor Ordalos, before turning to give a respectful bow toward Korre. “Prime Minister Belasi, it’s a pleasure to see you again.” he wondered if she would remember him from this time in the Opera, when he nearly fell in front of her and President Thorne. Only to think about it still made his face become a bit red.

Then, he turned to Graves. “Hello, Cassian! How are you going?” he hasn't seen the Zeltron since Life Day. He wondered how things were going for him.

@Nor'baal @ThisIsHowLibertyDies @llamallove @Braden @lizziie @Altaris

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc could hear the chatter well before he entered the chambers. A faint grin almost graced his features as he heard the ignorant commentary about the ISC being more centralized than the Republic. If only… he had no authority like Emil Ro had to simply mobilize the entire military force without ever meeting with, and gaining the approvals of, his executive council. But he liked when Senators remained ignorant of how governments outside their own operated - it’s how he gained so much and they so little. As per usual, he pretended not to hear, choosing instead to listen to how the rest of the dialogue played out.

There were a few new faces, but most he recognized. Raycom Hedarial was a figure he hadn’t seen in the game for a while. Perhaps he emerged conveniently when Emil Ro had been assassinated to throw his name in the hat for the seat. While a bit too passionate at times, the man could make a fine Chancellor. At least he didn’t have his head too far up his own ass and knew how to navigate dialogue with other foreign governments.

The half Sephi cut an imposing figure as always, and he was adorned in a vest, tie and a jacket atop. His hair was styled, a bit more trimmed facial hair gracing his sharp jawline than usual. He spotted Korre(@lizziie ) from afar, giving her a nod. The Prime Minister had proven herself a survivor. For all the ways her Senators embarrassed or failed her, none of it ever broke her. In many ways that put her well ahead of any of her predecessors.

Emryc helped himself to a whiskey. He gave Galek (@Altaris) a knowing nod before he turned to regard the gentlemen he hadn’t met yet, “Senator Moore,” (@Nor'baal ) He greeted, “Apologies for my tardiness, but thank you for hosting,” He extended a hand to shake, “Emryc Thorne,” He stated simply. Emryc turned to regard Xerxes (@Braden ) and introduced himself next before looking over to Raycom (@ThisIsHowLibertyDies ), “Long time, Senator. You’ve been well?” His absence had been a bigger mystery than his own almost year long disappearance.

The half Sephi looked across to spot Cassian (@llamallove ). There was no missing that handsome Zeltron. Instead of an overly polite greeting, Emryc simply gave him a half grin with a jut of his chin that was far more informal. You didn’t attend an illegal fighting ring together and come out acting prim and proper. Near Cassian he spotted Tristodd, the aide that began as nothing more than a peon to Lassiter but grew to be one of the more heavily involved ISCRA operatives. The half Sephi gave him a nod in greeting as well. The boy had come a long way. Emryc took a sip of his drink and turned back to the Republic Senators.

“Once again, my sincerest condolences on the loss of Chancellor Ro,” He said as he raised his glass, “May his legacy live on,” He said as he took a drink. And may his death continue to bring prosperity to the Consortium, he thought privately, thinking especially to how the Republic credits had completely tanked in value.

 

[Jin Vaisra]

Jin had spiraled since Emil’s death. Unlike his old self, who lavished in the spotlight at every possible chance, he’d remained on Fondor and shut himself behind the doors of the royal palace. He dodged journalists, turned down invitations offworld, and emerged only when the most important people came knocking. His months-long absence had left his reputation to rot.

Not anymore.

When Jin Vaisra entered the ambassadorial suite, he looked different. New. Gleaming. He’d abandoned the common fashions of the New Republic in favor of something more traditional: a blood red tang suit embedded with spirals of silver dragons, a collared white shirt underneath. On the back, a great phoenix spread its wings across his shoulders, eyes flaming red. There was plenty of symbolism to be found in what he wore, like the fact he didn’t bear a single pin or color representing the Republic.

As for what that meant, Jin would leave it up for interpretation.

He brushed aside a loose strand of hair—a fair bit longer since he’d last attended a party—and strode through the tangle of senators and preening dignitaries. Little else had changed in his absence. Besides the Umbaran and Hynestian newcomers, on top of the miraculous return of Raycom, everything seemed the same. Galek in his dazzling sherwani. Korre, looking as bored and beautiful as ever. And Emryc, like usual, crushingly handsome and at the center of everyone’s attention.

Jin might’ve slid right into the group as they had, but he felt a little rusty and decided to stick to the safer, inferior option: Senator Cassian Graves. He searched the Zeltron out through the guests and, finding him at a table covered in a sea of drinking glasses, cornered him. “It’s a wonder why I haven’t blocked you yet,” he said from behind, phone in hand. “I saw your text. I know it must be disappointing not to find me a liquefied puddle of flesh, but unlike you, I had the mind to bring an umbrella.”

Gods, he’d missed this. Teasing and mocking his colleagues—it gave him a rush he hadn’t felt in ages. That rush, unfortunately, faded the moment Tristodd entered the picture. Why hadn’t Sibyl sent an assassin after him yet? Jin supposed he would have to fix that. “Ah, Mister Brentioch,” he said, silver rings flashing on his hands like a second pair of knuckles. “It’s been a long time since we last spoke. What are you doing so far off your leash?”

@llamallove @LouJoVi

 

[Alexander Xerxes]

It seemed that Alexander was the definition between early and fashionably late; within only a few moments of the Hynestian Prince’s entry to the little gathering, a foray of the political elite arrived. First a sopping wet pink Zeltron, then the Prime Minister herself, her bright red hair complemented by her choice of formal attire. Thereafter the ISC invaded, Ordalos from Indupar, Brentioch from Brentaal, then the man they were just talking about President Thorne arrived.

Alexander raised his glass, smiled and greeted each member who joined their little gathering. Some left to get drinks or talk among themselves but most stayed. The political clout within that small circle was outstanding and for a moment Alexander felt a pang of greed run through his body.

“Indeed, he was a great loss to the Republic and the Galaxy. I only hope that we do not squander what he did for us in the coming months.” Xerxes replied, the fact the Republic had yet to replace the Chancellor was a failure in its nature. Something which gave weight to his earlier comment about strong and competent leadership.

“Has anyone had a chance to catch Squid Lake? They have only a short stay here on Courscant before moving on.”

@Nor'baal @ThisIsHowLibertyDies @lizziie @Sreeya @Altaris

 

[Galek Ordalos]

Galek brought the glass of gin to his lips, allowing his hazel eyes to casually drift between his colleagues as they schmoozed and conversed. It was only when Tristodd made his entrance into the party that the Induparan finally glanced back over his shoulder, offering Lassiter’s aide a small nod of acknowledgement and polite smile in greeting. “Always good to see you, Brentioch.” Despite the polite greeting, Galek was silently grateful that Tristodd had done them the courtesy of introducing himself to the group - as the Induparan royal drew a complete blank on his face.

Quite frankly, the face of Lassiter’s aide wasn’t exactly one that the Induparan royal made a point of committing to memory. The only reason Galek even recognized the name was due to the fact that the Brentaalan had gone out of his way to attach it to ISCRA.

Unsurprising, considering the multitudes of politicians that parasitically latched themselves to the success of the program, rather than doing anything substantive of their own.

“Please send my best wishes to Governor Lassiter. I do hope it is nothing serious.” He said with a small smile.

The Induparan’s gaze didn’t linger on Tristodd for very long after that, instead flicking back towards the entrance as Emryc strode into the ambassadorial suite - quite literally towering over the rest of his colleagues. Galek offered the half-Sephi a reciprocated nod of greeting, silently pleased by the large ISC turnout.

“May his legacy live on.” Galek raised his glass in toast when Emryc spoke, joining his colleagues in honoring the late Chancellor’s memory. The Induparan had gone out of his way to honor the late Chancellor in the immediate aftermath of his death, going so far as to rename one of the flagships of the Three Fold Fleets after Emil. A posthumous sign of gratitude, given that his death had effectively ushered over a third of the Republic into the ISC’s waiting arms.

The prince took a drink from his glass, swirling the liquid for a moment. Naturally, his attention was drawn back towards the entrance when Jin made his arrival. Galek was atleast slightly surprised that the Fondoran managed to leave his hovel and make an appearance. “Senator Vaisra,” He raised a glass in Emil’s direction.

The Induparan took a moment to glance over the Fondoran’s choice of attire, a grin gradually working its way onto his lips. There was a clear symbolism with his choice of attire, from the glorious Phoenix embroidered across his back, to the blatant lack of any Republic iconography whatsoever.

A Phoenix, rising up from the smoldering ashheap that was the Republic.

Of course, it remained to be seen if the Senator’s newfound views were merely reserved for fashionable political statements, or if Vaisra had the balls to actually act on them.

He watched the small exchange between Jin and Tristodd, unable to help the little grin that worked its way onto his face at the little jab towards Brentioch. Taking one last sip from his glass, Galek pushed off from where he was standing, confidently striding up to the three of them.

“Speaking of leashes,” Galek said smoothly, hazel eyes fixing onto Jin. “Thrilled to finally be off Emil’s?”

@Sreeya @Song @LouJoVi @llamallove

 

[Korre Belasi]

"Governor Ordalos! Thank you. It is good to see you as well." Korre's smile did not falter when she addressed him back, even if his attention soon diverted to the Fondorian entering the room. If she could catch his eye, Korre would widen her smile for the moment in which their gazes met. She didn't think much of his attire other than a brief thought on how the color suited him well.

Then, Brentaal's aid made his appearance. "Mr. Brentioch, you as well." Korre turned her gaze just in time to catch Emyrc's nod, and again she widened her smile to acknowledge it. Her glass was raised automatically with Emyrc's toast, and she took a sip when she lowered her arm.

For once, Korre found herself not enjoying a social gathering as she usually would. It wasn't that she was upset to be here, but she felt surprisingly neutral about this event. After months of work behind the scenes, it felt weird to attend an intergovernmental event such as this. It felt like a misuse of her time.

"Perhaps I should send Ilana a message."

But, she came here for a reason. Her blue eyes found Senator Hedarial, and her body followed with a smile upon her lips. "Korre Belasi. Senator Hedarial, correct?" She took ahold of her drink with her left hand then extended her right to shake his if he would take it. "How has Byss been faring as of late?" Her lips fell, and the intonation of her voice suggested she was asking in the context of the late chancellor's death.

tags: @Altaris @Song @LouJoVi @Sreeya @ThisIsHowLibertyDies

 

[Cassian Graves]

Prime Minister Belasi's voice cut through the room like a hot knife in butter, garnering stares from everyone in the room. The first lady of the hour, and quite possibly the only lady of the hour as Tristodd Brentioch strode into the room alone, unaccompanied by Governor Lassiter. Cassian felt sorry for her—the Prime Minister, not Lassiter—alone in a sea of testosterone. But the Prime Minister could handle herself, as was evidenced by her position in government.

The room would part for her, not around her. Everyone here respected her, which was something the late Supreme Chancellor had never been able to accomplish. Cassian offered her a small smile, before she was pulled into a conversation with the Prince of Indupar, but he said nothing. Perhaps they would talk later.

"Tristodd," Cassian greeted as he approached, a certain amount of warmth in his voice as he extended a hand to the Brentaalan Aide. Ever since Life Day, when Cassian had attended the children's refugee fundraiser on Thyferra, the two had been on a first name basis. You couldn't dress up like Santa and an Elf and not be on a first name basis. That had been an... interesting if not humbling experience. "You're looking well. I hope the children are in good health?" Tristodd would understand that Cassian inquired after the Brentaalan's own adopted children, both of whom were nonexistent as far as his employer was concerned.

Across the room, the Zeltron made eye contact with the President of the ISC himself, Emryc Thorne. Even after all this time, Thorne struck an imposing figure. Briefly, Cassian's thoughts drifted to Emil. Perhaps the only thing he'd truly miss about the late Chancellor was the humorous image of him standing alongside the President, worlds apart in stature. Cassian returned the Half-Sephi's grin, eyes sparkling as he titled his head in silent greeting.

Then he returned his focus to Tristodd, continuing with a mischievous glint in his blue eyes, "I see Governor Lassiter is not with you. Off galivanting with that actor, is she? I sent her my congratulations but never did hear back from her." He sighed quietly to himself, as if deeply lamenting the slight. "Ah, well. I'm sure she's busy planning the wedding of the century. I do hope I'll receive an invitation."

The beginnings of a wicked smile crept over his lips, and just in time too. The Zeltron heard the aspen tongue breathing down his neck before he saw him. Turning, Cassian's gaze settled on Jin Vaisra. So the snake had slithered out of his hole after all.

"Vaisra," Cassian replied, voice casual and unbothered as he looked the Senator up and down. "I should have heard you slither in." Not so subtly, blue eyes scanned the carpet behind the Senator of Fondor, just in case he'd left a trail of slime in his wake.

Before anything more could be said, Galek Ordalos approached the small group that had gathered near the drinks. The Zeltron observed the Prince, biding his time before speaking. "Governor Ordalos," Cassian addressed him with an unblinking stare. "I'm surprised to hear you talk about leashes, considering that in recent years you've made a career out of riding on the coattails of Emryc Thorne's success."

@lizziie @Sreeya @LouJoVi @Song @Altaris

 

[Phanius Moore]

Moore returned the greetings, hand-shakes and false smiles of the various newcomers, responding with mild pleasantries and sundry small-talk as he did so. Diplomatic training, and years of it, came in exceptionally handy in such a situation, where one had to pretend to like people you wouldn't be caught dead spending time with unless decorum demanded it. The worst of them were gossip mongers to the extreme, the scions of wealthy or influential families who saw the humdrum of galactic politics as more of a chance to catch up with fellow members of the elite than as a chance to do anything good. The Umbaran had always known this, it was still a shock to see it first hand, however.

"President Thorne, thank you for coming." Senator Moore said, with genuine humility in his voice "The Consortium continues to be something of a bedrock of stability in these increasingly troubled times. With the Alliance struggling under the weight of continued aggression from the Empire, and now the Mandalorians, I would be interested as to your insights around the recent re-emergence of a surprisingly well-equipped and mobilised Mandalore?" he enquired, keen to probe the mind of a leading statesman. "I was remarking to Senator Hedariel earlier, that for a fractured nation, the Mandalorians appear to have managed to get their hands on a remarkable amount of war material in relatively little time? Do you think it possible someone may be backing them?"

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc could hear the savage remarks beginning already with Vaisra’s appearance. For all the times they were in the same room together, he couldn’t help but note the Fondor Senator appeared perpetually far too intimidated to approach him, the two never actually having formally met. His focus returned to Moore as he took a sip of his whiskey, listening to his speculations about the Mandalorian surge.

“External backing is certainly a possibility,” He stated flatly as he took another sip, “But the more obvious reality is that no one has had any insight into the Mandalorians for over a century. Not a single diplomat in here could tell you what activities were happening on the planet this entire time. The first known recent contact prior to the attacks was a fan club ship being shot down. It’s not entirely farfetched to consider that they are simply a resourceful people that have been quietly amassing and rebuilding supplies without anyone having any clue. I would give them more credit than to simply assume they can only act when given external handouts.”

Emryc eyed the Umbaran quietly for a moment, “Self-sovereignty is a beautiful thing, Senator, but gross oversight and neglect will often invite insurrections.”

He didn’t need to spell out the undertones of where the FWA had failed the Mandalorians. There were no efforts made to formally work with them or even appeal to them to join the fight against the Sith. If the FWA had acted before Emryc ever did, perhaps the Sith would be the ones facing a two front war right now. Emryc’s gaze briefly flicked over to Korre (@lizziie ), offering an apologetic half smile. While his perspective wasn’t entirely positive of the FWA, he knew the Prime Minister was not one to get her feathers ruffled easily.

@Nor'baal

 

[Tristodd Brentioch]

Tristodd had finished greeting Cassian when President Thorne arrived. The half-Sephi had only nodded at him, but it was already enough to make the Brentaalan blush a bit. After they worked together with the settling of the Firrerreo refugees on Thyferra, the young Brentioch learned that Emryc was somewhat of a jerk. However, he still admired the man. Having his existence noticed by one of the greatest politicians of the century made him feel happy and nervous to not make something that could embarrass himself in front of the man.

He turned his attention to Graves. Tristodd didn’t expect that he was going to mention his children in public. While Sibyl wasn’t here, the young man still didn’t want the other politicians to start gossiping about them. “They are fine. Isaya still wants you to teach him how to mount one of the beasts of Onderon. He constantly asks me to take him to visit your homeworld.” he laughed, reminding of how his son would pout while asking it. “I told you that these stories that you told during Life Day would give him ideas.”

The Brentaalan couldn’t avoid laughing when Cassian mentioned the most recent tabloid. “Sibyl was furious with your message. I saw her throwing the datapad through the window.” he said between laughs. “She says that the pictures are a misunderstanding and she was trying to invite the actor to visit Brentaal for the opening of some new hospitals. I don’t believe in any of it.”

Then, this pleasant conversation was disturbed by the arrival of Senator Jin Vaisra. Tristodd had few opportunities to interact with him, but he knew that Fondorian was the closest thing that Sibyl would call a friend. If it was really true, then that man was rotten inside, like her. The woman would only appreciate someone that was equal to her. What was sad, because he was really pretty. Well, handsome on the outside with a ugly interior.

The Brentaalan raised an eyebrow when Vaista talked to him. He was so rude and they barely knew each other. “Yes, there is some time.” he said, giving the man a false smile. He had learned some things by working with Sibyl, making convincing false smiles was one of them. “Unfortunately, I’m not her pet or interested in this type of thing.” then, his smile grew. “I have heard that you are a connoisseur of leashes, sharing such hobbies with the deceased Chancellor Ro. Sadly, I think that you set him free before teaching him how to be careful with his surroundings.” Tristodd had heard Sibyl call Ro as Vaisra’s dog so many times that even him started to think that this type of relationship could be real. At least he could use it against the other man. He wasn’t going to stay silent and be offended without any reason.

Apparently, Ordalos also had heard these rumors, because he also threw a comment regarding leashes at Jin. Then, Cassian started to talk with Induparan, also referring to leashes and Emryc’s coattails. Tristodd stared at the exchange in silence, while mentally taking note of these comments. If someday he succeeds Sibyl as governor, he should know how to act in these situations.

@llamallove @Sreeya @Altaris @Song

 

[Jin Vaisra]

“Oh, Cassian. Give the man some credit. The ISCRA has been an incredible success on its own, turning millions of refugees into an agrarian, peasant labor force.” He smiled. As backhanded as the compliment might sound, even Jin had to admit the brilliance on the Consortium’s part in aligning with Tanaab, dumping refugees on backwater planets like Tatooine and handing them plots of land to farm and till. Imagine what such a workforce could accomplish at Fondor’s shipyards? He salivated at the thought.

“But I do believe you have the roles reversed, Governor Ordalos. I’d thought you of all people would know it takes more to be a leader than a fancy title or a pretty face.” His eyes cut to President Thorne, who’d been abandoned to the tragic fate of making smalltalk with an Umbaran philosopher. He sighed. “You are lucky to have a leader who is more than that. I seriously doubt whoever the Republic appoints as the next Chancellor—whenever that is, of course—will be able to fill Emil’s shoes.”

Jin shrugged. Simply speaking the man’s name stung, and it didn’t help with Tristodd adding to the mess. The urge to throw the boy over the nearest balcony was crushing, but Jin kept his expression cool, too practiced of a politician to let his annoyance slip.

He checked his nails, looking bored. “Perhaps,” he told Tristodd, not thinking it worth his time to engage in a battle of wit against a gubernatorial aide with the fashion sense of a cross-eyed dolphin. There was a bigger fish to fry and Jin didn’t have the whole night to waste. So, he waved a dismissive hand, hoping to move onto a subject that wouldn't force him to strangle the boy to death.

“Enough talk of dog leashes and dead men. It’s ruining my appetite.” His dark eyes turned back to Galek, studying the man’s outfit for pockets. “Governor Ordalos, you haven’t happened to bring some Induparan delicacies to the party, have you? I’ll confess your last banquet left quite the impression on me, and it’s a crime Senator Moore has chosen not to serve food for tonight.”

Judging by Phanius’ pale and skeletal appearance, he wondered if the man ate at all. Then again, what grand feasts did Umbara even have to offer? Grilled rock and salted glass?

@Altaris @llamallove @LouJoVi