Open Naboo For A Better Galaxy

[Caliban Drast]

Caliban had spent the duration of the lockdown walking amongst the gathering, not actively seeking to speak with anyone, but offering a smile and a few calming words when they were sought. He might not be a soldier anymore, but the training was still in him, which helped him stay calm and focused as they waited for things to calm down. By the time the lockdown was lifted he had managed to get familiar with quite a few aides and dignitaries, and even a few Senators.

When they were finally contacted by Emryc Thorne, Caliban felt a sense of relief to see the man alive. Not just because there was one less life lost today, but because he could imagine the shit-storm that would have been unleashed across the Galaxy if he had died. Caliban was also interested in hearing what he had to saw, and had a few questions of his own. What were his goals, did he seek power, or was he really just out for the common people. Did he speak for himself, or was he representing worlds that sought this alliance among the Independent worlds. Well, now there might be time to get those answers. Sooner or later, but probably later, for there were more pressing matters he wanted to discuss.

"Senator Clément," Caliban began once the Senator from New Alderaan had ceded the floor, "may I suggest an amendment to your words. While the Free Worlds are in some way allied with the Jedi, you have to but step outside to hear what the people think." He held up his datapad to play a recording he had made of the news coverage of the incident. "No Jedi, no Sith. It looks like it is no longer a matter of Jedi or Sith, but rather their religion as a whole. I know many here still trust in the Jedi," he paused to glance towards the Jedi Master who was in attendance, "and I count myself among that number. But I can not in good conscience let my opinions overshadow the voices of those I represent. These calls I fear will not die here, and whatever we discuss here today, we must be ready to react to what the people want. Mr Thorne," he faced the holo-projection, "as the sole representative for those outside the Free Worlds, is this a sentiment shared by those for whom you speak?"

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[Soygun York]

"Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa," Senator York objected. "Let's be careful about our words." He addressed the Thorne's projected image. "I wouldn't go so far as Senator Drast to say that we are 'allied' with the Jedi, Mr. Thorne. We currently have a working relationship with the Jedi- as do many independent systems outside the Free Worlds Alliance."

A small smirk curled up one side of York's lips. "I called you Mr. Thorne. That may not be appropriate anymore. Do you have a title yet? Do you wish to be called...President Thorne? Premier Thorne? Prime Minister? General? Maybe Supreme Leader suits your fancy?" He let that question sit for a moment before turning his attention back to Senator Drast, his tone changing a bit more forceful. "And who exactly are you representing?" He pointed to the people outside chanting. "Those people? The people of Naboo? They aren't even in the FWA. They're on the doorstep of this supposed Sith Empire for crying out loud. Of course they are looking for protection from the Sith and they may see Thorne as a means of getting it. But you, you are supposed to be representing the one trillion people on Coruscant. The core worlds are more invested in the FWA than anyone and may very well have a different opinion than these independent systems outside of our protection. Just because the Naboo are chanting some simplistic political drivel, I don't dare pretend that the same thing is happening back home."

York wasn't trying to insult Drast as much as he was Naboo. If he could push the Naboo closer to joining Thorne with a backhanded comment, all the better. Thorne gaining enough power to actually fight the Sith would be helpful. He just didn't want the FWA to fully commit to fighting them. He hoped the Jedi would be savvy enough diplomatically to stay out of Thorne's way and not get into sustained conflict with him or whatever federation he may have put together.

Once more, he turned back to Thorne's image and continued with his tougher tone. "Who are you, anyway? What planet do you represent? How many independent systems and planets are aligned with you? Now, we've given you a platform. We've elevated your position simply by recognizing you to have this dialogue. But all the senate knows, and all the galaxy knows, is that you are a charismatic man that can hack into the Holonet feed. That may be enough for some senators, but it isn't enough for me. As you well know, charismatic figures who quickly rise to power on a message of hate and distrust of certain people or groups can be...well, they can be quite dangerous. I don't speak for the senate, but I speak for me, and I hope the rest of the senate body has the good sense to agree with me on this. We have to know who we're dealing with and why you're qualified to speak on behalf of independent systems from one end of our galaxy to the next if this is to continue. And in the spirit of goodwill, it would be helpful if you could tell us just how strong this federation of yours has gotten, if it's gotten off the ground at all. The evidence to support that it has is currently...lacking."

York didn't mind if he ruffled some feathers. If push came to shove, he wouldn't want to align against the Jedi, and if the FWA was forced to choose sides, they were the safest bet. They were the devil he knew. Thorne was a wildcard, and getting in bed with the Sith was not an option at all.

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[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc silently observed the Senators throwing volleys at one another. It was almost laughable just how fractured the Free World Alliance was. He took it all in, hearing each of them out. From the sounds of it, they simply wanted excuses to first grill one another and then turn on him. Emryc remained unfazed, digesting all the information. The only thing that caught his attention was the word ‘Drast’, causing him to jerk his head to face in the direction of that particular Senator. Thankfully, a Drast that was particularly important to him had helped him shift his mentality around immediate, unquestionable loyalty to just any Drast. His gaze lingered only for a moment before turning to look at the Senator of Kattada.

Being Spicelord meant that Emryc ran in Syndicate circles, and he was a business partner of Preef’s. He had heard rumors about York’s interests in the Syndicates, but he would simply sit on this information for now.

“My title will be whatever the people deem,” Emryc said with a smile, visage as calm as ever. He looked back over to Clement, “Thank you for inviting me here, first of all. Second of all, there was never a case for any discord between the unaffiliated worlds and the FWA. My platform simply seeks to detach itself from both Sith and Jedi. I believe that the galaxy is far more complex than picking one religious group over the other and inviting unnecessary war. I’m of the opinion that the attack in the Core Worlds was incited by the foolish actions of Lieutenant Trys Aran announcing publicly that the Rangers were digging into the actions of the Sith that took place...where? Oh right, nowhere in FWA space but out here in Naboo and on Nar Shaddaa. And what came as a result? The Sith retaliation into the Core Worlds and the Rangers. I’m of the opinion that if FWA actually operated within its own borders, it wouldn’t be caught up in the mess it is today. The worlds I represent and I want no part in it and we will certainly not go looking for trouble and take any side but our own.”

He hoped that would cover both Clement and Drast’s questions and assert his position once more. He then turned over to look at York.

“I invite you to turn on Holonet,” Emryc challenged with a grin, “Because you will find that there is an uncomfortable amount of people even within the FWA that want no part in choosing sides,” The chanting was starting to spread like wildfire. Nevertheless, Emryc was here and now and he would address questions posed to him.

“The alliance is in its initial stages. As you are aware I made an address to declare my intent and was invited here shortly after. I did not proactively seek out an audience, nor was it on the top of my list. I am here, however, to make it clear that I respect the FWA and will gladly meet when asked.”

“I have the backing of diplomats from Christophsis and Thyferra as of now, and I am in talks with more. I have no interest in having authority over a planet as much as I’d like to represent them collectively in a forum like this. The most immediate goal of the alliance would be to reform a defense posture and set up trade and economic agreements to allow many of these backwater planets to find a foothold in the galaxy. There are many planets out there that don’t have the protection and luxury of something like the FWA, and I believe that should be amended if Jedi and Sith wars continue to threaten the galaxy."

Emryc’s eyes flicked briefly over to the Jedi master’s, “It just so happens that we are in agreement that we want to disassociate ourselves from both Jedi and Sith. Our strategies to combat attacks that may come from either group would be a collaborative approach that draws from our collective planetary resource and military pools.”

Meanwhile, people were packing into the hospital right outside his door. Reporters and cameras were all over the place and local authorities had to shove people back. Some random woman that Emryc had never met walked up to @Vrashinal Karzinkaal .

“Hi! I’m Emryc Thorne’s girlfriend, can I go in to visit?”

Another woman who looked like she could be Emryc’s mother shoved her aside, “No I’m his wife! Are there cameras in there? I want to be on Holo!”


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[Maxims Tionson]

Max sat in his seat but he did not sit comfortable - he was very much aware that the senators were talking about himself here. They were going to be talking about his Order and he was as much a prop as he was a participant. Thankfully he was able to be a participant rather than just a talking point however, which gave him a chance to address some of the concerns that the Galaxy at large seemed to have with the Jedi.

The issues they had with the Sith were, he felt, well founded to be certain.

Sitting there he was able to sense the emotions of the people in the room without even really meaning to. He could feel their uncertainty and their hesitation along with their convictions and their righteous anger in the most general terms. Max did not take any action to dig in further and Emryc was outside of the room to begin with. He sipped at a glass of water as the Senators and the young Mr Thorne spoke.

They were elected officials and it was their right to speak ahead of someone such as he. Although his Order was the focus of many parts of the conversation, he was here through the goodwill of several of them and the opportunity he gave them to demand answers. That Emryc was backed by Christophsis and Thyferra was information he would take back - though he did not the pointed lack of any stated title the young man could claim.

Having the trust of diplomats didn't put someone in the position to speak on their behalf or the billions of lives that they, in turn, represented. It suggested a hierarchy where Emryc Thorne sat above those diplomats, even if it was by their own consent. That said something about the position the young man actually held, even if he refused to put a title on it.

He smiled ever so slightly when Emryc met his gaze and nodded to him respectfully once he had finished speaking before speaking again.

"Your points are well argued and with merit, Mr Thorne." he began before gesturing to the rest of the table, "As are the concerns raised by the good senators. I will not sit here and claim innocence on behalf of my Order for the actions we have taken. Our part in the ongoing war is one thrust upon us by the Sith's actions taken against our Order and against planets who do not bow to their whims; but our actions are still our own and must be counted."

Max fought the urge to rub at his beard as he spoke again.

"We have suffered for our resistance to the Sith but we shall not cease to resist because we have been injured." he nodded to the walls, "The citizens who calls for an end to the Jedi and the Sith? Are entitled to their opinions. To their confusion and their fears and anger - I would never claim otherwise. I understand it even, growing up as a kid in the Tion Cluster hiding between fights between gangs and local police, not sure who's stray blaster bolt might hit the house next. But the Order? We do not seek power and we do not presume to have any right to tell others how to feel or how to govern."

He shook his head slightly.

"The Jedi will resist the Sith. If the worlds of the Galaxy wish to restrict how we operate on their worlds? That is entirely within their rights and the Jedi Order shall respect clear boundaries set. Regardless of any past actions we have taken, we are committed to that." he declared firmly, looking between those here at the table, "But I believe today has shown that the Sith shall not stand by because a planet or a citizen tries to stand apart, tries to claim that they are not part of the war. The Sith don't seem to care that Naboo is at peace with them or that Mr Thorne and his allies have taken no military or police action against them. If we are not careful, the war that exists whether we like it or not... will fracture."

Max leaned back ever so slightly.

"Into the war of the Sith against the Jedi... and the war of the Sith against everyone they do not control. The Jedi would stand beside any world, any people, who would wish to be free from the oppression of the Sith but we will not force ourselves onto any world. We stand ready to be allies; protectors and nothing more."

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[Vrashinal Karzinkaal]

Vrash sighed as he looked at the women. "Neither one of you are gaining entry as long as one of you yet breathes. You claim to be both wife and mistress and as he can't suffer such an image, he can only have one. So go outside and fight to the death, winner will get to see Mr. Thorne." He might as well have some fun with the crazy women. And as he spoke, his hand would drift to rest on the hilt of his sword. "Now back away, have your contest, and return. You can only truly want something if you're willing to die for it."

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[Caliban Drast]

Caliban said nothing to correct or concede to the Senator's word's regarding the nature of the relationship between the Jedi and the Free Worlds. It was semantics at this point, Jedi had been operating in the Free Worlds with minimal obstruction. For anyone not keeping up with official proclamations and treaties, which made up a vast majority of the Galaxy, the Jedi and Free Worlds were allied in some sense of the word.

He didn't care for the attacks on him either, but he did care about his words regarding Naboo and Thorne. Alienating either would get them nowhere, and he couldn't tell what the Senator from Kattada was aiming for. Both seemed equally detrimental to their cause. He could already see it on the face of the delegates from Naboo. The Queen's chosen representative was too well trained to show it, but he could see it on the faces of the other delegates who accompanied her.

"Senator York," Caliban responded during a lull in the conversation, "I sincerely hope you did not just try to ignore and belittle the entire population of a planet, a planet that has always stood by the tenets of Democracy that we represent, just because they are not your responsibility. The fact that they're on the doorsteps of the Sith only makes it more imperative that we help the Naboo, and we will not do that by turning a deaf ear to them as you suggest. The Naboo have long been our allies, and I hope going forward you will keep that in mind before you speak." He paused to look at the Naboo delegates and offered them a slight nod in apology before continuing. A more formal apology would be due later, and he hoped Clemente would see to it that York was the one to deliver it, but for now he hoped he had managed to salvage things before it was too late.

"You see, the thing about the trillions I represent is that they come from all over the Galaxy, you might have only rubbed shoulders with the elite who live on the upper levels, but if you visit the lower levels where I grew up you will find that beings from all over the Galaxy have moved there. Each for their own reason, but they still carry their former worlds in their hearts, and I assure you they will share the very sentiments that are being brought up outside. You think this is a reaction to one event? This has been brewing for some time, this was but the catalyst, and I fear this flame will spread far and wide. So," he said with a firm glance at York, "I would suggest proceeding with open minds, lest we make the mistake of trying to insult someone who has come to us of their free will and try to brand them with the grandiose titles of Sith Emperors. Specially when their life was almost lost to aggressions of the Sith moments before." It was his turn to apologize to Thorne then, which he did with another bow towards his hologram before taking a step back to let others speak.

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[Soygun York]

"Here we go again throwing around the word 'allies.'" Soygun said. "No, the Naboo are not our allies. Our allies are in the Free World Alliance." York put a strong emphasis on the word "alliance." "The Naboo are not members in the FWA. That does not mean that I do not wish them well. It doesn't mean that we aren't friends. It does not mean that we would not help them should they ask for it." Again, he put an emphasis on certain words to emphasise a point.

They way Soygon saw it, Drast created a different opening. York couldn't deny the backhanded comment about the political drivel toward the Naboo, but the senator from Coruscant underscored the very thing that caused Thorne's rallying cry- the reason the masses of Naboo were siding with Thorne in the first place. Fair enough. The Kattada senator would change his tactic. York raised his voice and narrowed his eyes speaking like a high-priced attorney in a blockbuster trial. "It is you, Senator Drast, who is not listening to the Naboo. Whatever Mr. Thorne here is selling, the Naboo people are buying. Will their government fall in line with that? It's obviously too early to say. But I have been listening very closely to all parties, and what I have been hearing from Thorne and the independent systems is that they are becoming increasingly frustrated that the Jedi, the Sector Rangers, and the FWA regularly move too quickly to butt into their affairs without considering what the people of those independent systems actually want. It is you that is insulting the people on this planet by thinking that the FWA knows what is best for them without so much as asking their opinion on the matter out of some belief they can't manage to make the right decision for themselves. I know that the rest of the galaxy is not as 'cosmopolitan' as Coruscant, but we aren't neck deep in our own hubris either. Coruscant believes that because people from all over the galaxy live there, that it can speak for the whole galaxy. That was your insinuation with your last remarks, Senator, but I would like to remind everyone listening that it does not. And Mr. Thorne, in our senate body, rest assured that my vote counts just the same as Senator Drast's. And I suspect the people of Naboo and all planets who wish to be left the hell alone and not talked down to will be glad to know it."

He pointed outside. "What happened here was an attack on Mr. Thorne, who has it made it very clear he wants the FWA to mind our own damn business. It happened here in Naboo which is not a member of the FWA, and the masses on this planet seem to be lining up behind Thorne's way of thinking. Don't you dare accuse me of insulting the people of Naboo when you are the one who refuses to listen to their wishes and appears to have intentions to subvert their own sovereignty. I know Coruscant loves to call the shots, but this ain't their firing range."

York was practically inviting Naboo to join Thorne. Whether or not it was good for Naboo, York did not know. He did not care. What he did figure is that Naboo could well be a battlefield soon with the growing Sith space, and the Sith being forced to fight whatever federation Thorne was building was better than rolling out the red carpet. What York didn't want was the FWA to blow the trumpets and fly to the rescue in a full declaration of war against the Sith to protect a planet that was not in the FWA.

He looked back to the projection of Thorne and spoke. "I'll be honest with you, Mr. Thorne. I don't know that what you're putting together is good for democracy or good for the galaxy as a whole. I'm very skeptical of you and what you may bring about. But I fully believe that the independent systems should be exactly that- independent to choose how to respond to the changes and turmoil in our galaxy, and if they decide to fall in line behind you, it is my opinion that the FWA should not insult their intelligence," he said as he cut his eyes to Drast before sending them back to Thorne's image. "by trying to pull their strings like a puppet master."

Soygun leaned back in his chair and didn't make eye contact with anyone. Whether or not it made a dent in what people thought, he didn't know. But if he was caught looking for confirmation by trying to read the room, he would have lost whatever image of strength he may have been able to build. If it sold well, other senators would tell him. Perhaps in private, but they would let it be known. Some may jump in and support it vocally here or in the senate chambers. He also hoped that some of the smaller planets would jump on the board with the rhetoric against Coruscant. York's remarks were tinged with a bit of "planet-class" warfare. He was trying to pull on the sentiments that the larger planets, particularly the large, economic powerhouses near the core, ran the show and the smaller planets fought for the scraps. It wouldn't be a bad by-product if the smaller planets decided to put their big-boy-diplomacy britches on.

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[Nicolas Clément]

Nicolas frowned when Senator Drast spoke after Nicolas conceded the floor for others, Nicolas may not have liked what he had to say he respected his viewpoint and his words. And then continued to frown when Senator York spoke, who words were insulting to the people of Naboo, and was snide Emryc Thorne. This wasn't bolding well for a civil conversation. Emryc responded taking it in stride however. When he responded to what Clement said, some of it was opinion he didn't quite agree with, but was otherwise reasonable. Nicolas doesn't share his opinion but still respects it.

The Jedi Master spoke, his statement was as expected. Expected, but welcome contribution, but the New Alderaanian doubts it will make any of the anti-force users ease up towards them, or Thorne ease his stance towards them. It was then Senators Drast and York spoke again that things appear to be going off rails. And frankly he was confused with York's last speech. He was insulting the people of Naboo, and then... was defending them from Drast? What? Shaking his head, he would return to take the floor to try and get this forum back on track to what this is supposed to be about. For a moment he almost forgot, he could admit.

"Hold on. Lets remember, we are being civil about this, lets not be snide either. Remember this isn't just about the people of Coruscant, or Naboo or one planet, this is about the whole galaxy, and coming to an understanding on how we can all co-exist in this galaxy. We don't have to totally agree with each other, or like each other..." Nicolas would look towards Thorn's projection "...Who knows the, FWA would be interested bilateral relations, there is always opportunity for trade and such, down the road, like we already do on a smaller scale with other independent worlds." he would turn to face in general towards everyone "But for now, making sure the we are all being heard, our viewpoints known, and mull over the best way going forward."

"Anyways" he would respond to comments from Thorn that were directed towards him. "I had good-faith there was no cause for discord. I just wanted to make sure that's not your aim. There is nothing wrong with wanting a group for the less fortunate worlds to have a chance to flourish."

"Now Mr. Thorne, so just to be clear, you are looking for your purposed federation to stand completely on it's own two feet? In regards to the turmoil erupting on the galaxy? And No Jedi, No Sith? It would be able to do that? If, either the Sith or the Jedi attack hypothetically, your federation would very capable of beating them back on it's own, no help from outside sources? " he asked Thorne, to confirm. He knows Thorne talked about forming a defensive posture and pooling defense resources. Nicolas would probably have another question for Thorne, depending on how he answers.

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[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc silently watched as Drast and York seemingly duked it out. He watched with mild amusement dancing in his eyes, though it was difficult to make it out in the Holo version of him. He instead briefly looked over at the Jedi Master to see what he made of all this. The man looked vaguely familiar, and Emryc couldn’t quite place it. In the end, his attention was drawn back to Senator York addressing him.

He gazed at the Senator for a moment briefly before looking to Clement when he attempted to guide the conversation back to its original purpose. Through it all, Emryc’s face remained passive, no real emotion betrayed outside of his eyes studying the others in the room. He privately decided he liked York and could see himself grabbing a beer with the man at some point.

Emryc considered Clement’s questions before he answered, “Yes, my platform is to offer a body of government that simply does not exist right now. Today planets have the choice of joining the Free World Alliance - the people that have thrown their lot in with the Jedi more or less despite how much it may be denied - or they stand on their own. I seek to offer an alternative choice,” He stressed the word choice as his eyes flicked back over to York with a glint of amusement in his eyes before turning back to Clement, “That they may select or not. And yes, should Sith or Jedi attacks continue, we will not be relying on FWA or other governing bodies to get involved. This allows you to maintain the status quo and focus on issues within your borders.”

Emryc looked at each of them for a moment before he continued, “I would like to propose that we formalize this gathering as a Galactic Senate that recognizes dignitaries outside of just the FWA. The forum would then include the New Republic Chancellor, the FWA Prime Minister, critical world FWA Senators,” He glanced at the Jedi, “A representative from the Jedi, and myself as the representative for the independent worlds and any critical world diplomats,” If Naboo joined him, the Queen would be an example of one of those diplomats.

“I am more than willing to keep open dialogue to best support an effort to bring peace back to the galaxy,” Emryc said, his voice genuine, “Every government has started somewhere, and my efforts are in their conception. I truly hope that we can all work together to ensure that every world, whether it be in the Core or in the backwaters, feel like they have a voice. To feel like they have the means to defend themselves and serve in the best interest of their people.”

Emryc offered them a smile after he finished. It was clear he harbored no ill will here, and no attempts at attacking his character or his platform would make him waver.

Meanwhile, the two women stared at one another when @Vrashinal Karzinkaal told them to fight. However, the older woman was the one that grabbed the younger one by the hair and started the fight right there. There was screeching and yelling, hints of it threatening to seep into the Emryc’s microphone if Vrash didn’t take control of the situation immediately.

Local authorities had to push reporters back. People lined up along the windows to hold up signs protesting against Jedi and Sith. There were also signs supporting Thorne and lots of crude drawings of a pointy eared man. Some people drew stick figure Jedi and Sith with lines canceling them out.

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[Vrashinal Karzinkaal]

Vrash had himself a good old reptillian laugh before one hand grabbed each woman by the back of the hair and yanked roughly back, pulling them apart. "Given your inability to follow the most basic of instructions.." he'd guide them over to a pair of Naboo security "Arrest these harlots for slander and defamation towards Mr. Thorne. We'll be by tomorrow to properly formalize the charges."

The two guards would nod before dragging the women away, who were both still trying to fight each other or curse Vrash. Either way, he was having a blast. "I'd use stun batons if you have to. I think one of them is armed." He then chuckled lightly to himself as he returned fully to the room, merely just retreating one step backwards.

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[Caliban Drast]

Caliban just raised an eyebrow as York went off on another monologue, gesturing an aide over to confirm that she had been recording the proceedings of the meeting. He wanted to go back and review what was being discussed, was York intentionally twisting Ca's words to play some political game or was there some language gap that was making it hard for the other Senator to understand what Cal was saying. Either way, he needed to go over things to make sure the first impressions he had developed of all the gathered parties was correct. Though he was confident that what he had gathered so far was pretty on point.

York was playing some convoluted game, though Cal wasn't sure if he was specifically trying to undermine him or he just happened to be the target this time. Cal heard him speak during the meeting with the Jedi Master. He had spoken against armament if Cal recalled correctly, which at the time had seemed like a reasonable response to another Senator's suggestion to arm the Jedi. So there was no historical data for Cal to judge the man, but he would keep his eyes and ears going forward. It wasn't hard to believe that all politicians were out with some agenda, but York had just made Caliban very interested in what his agenda was. Clément on the other hand was still a mystery to him, Cal wasn't sure what his goal had been with this meeting, beyond having Thorne in the room with some Senators. But Cal would have time aplenty to worry about Clément later, because that brought him to Thorne. Thorne had proved himself to be completely different from his fellow Senators. He had grasped the meeting by the horns and taken control not just for today but for the foreseeable future. By being the one to suggest this Galactic Senate, and setting the terms for its formation and membership, he had set himself up to be the one calling the shots.

No, unlike the others, this one was dangerous. And not just the irritating political kind of dangerous, but the real kind.

"Mr. Thorne," Cal finally replied, "your proposal is an intriguing one, one that I personally believe to have the potential to benefit many." He glanced at York, wondering if the man would take the bait to try and challenge him on this as well. "But I am sure you will understand that we need to take this back for discussion, the three of us cannot commit the Free Worlds to any course. Democracy must play its course. I believe you would also need time to organize things on your end, I am sure you have many a call to answer. We didn't give you much time before this meeting after all. Might I propose setting a future date for us to reconvene after discussions have been raised with our respective governing bodies and take this proposal forward?"

He glanced at the Jedi Master, and then at the Naboo representatives to gauge their responses. The Jedi was hard to read, but the Naboo were less so. He had seen their disapproving expressions as the Senators had seemingly argued, and he got the feeling this meeting had done more to harm their impression of the Free Worlds than improve it. Yet again Thorne had benefited by letting them do the work for him.

Dangerous indeed. Impressive, yet dangerous.

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[Maxims Tionson]

The senators were spending half of the meeting bickering amongst themselves and Max couldn't help but realize that this was probably normal for them. They were in a meeting that may have bearing on the lives of trillions but, to them, this was a Tuesday. It was he who was the abnormality in the room and he felt it, he felt slightly out of place despite their decision to invite him along.

Senator Clement was a stabilizing force it seemed and got the meeting back on track - York and Drast were important as well but it was clear that there was some disagreements brewing there. He leaned forward when Clement brought forth what it was that Thorne was actually looking for. Max caught the eye of Emryc for a moment and he thought he saw something in those eyes before the moment was over.

Thorne laid out his case, plainly and with little in the way of political double speak. The more it was laid out the more Max found himself rather relieved that the young man was involved in the talks.

"What Mr Thorne is suggesting is something I believe could be of a great benefit to the Galaxy at large, should it be implemented with patience and the full agreement of all parties." he nodded to Caliban, "Senator Drast has the right of it, I believe. What has been proposed here today has the chance to be a great force for change and for peace but it must be well-discussed so that the people may make their voices heard."

He smiled a little bit.

"I will bring this back to my Order and the decision shall be made regarding who shall act as the Jedi representative then. Personally I would be delighted to meet with you all again and, circumstances willing..." he nodded to Emryc, "To meet you in person, Mr Thorne."

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[Soygun York]

Well, now he certainly didn't trust Thorne. What he proposed sounded like absolute lunacy to York, at least from the FWA perspective. This upstart's entire platform was that he didn't want to answer to the FWA nor to be beholden to them. But yet, he wanted to recreate some version the Galactic Senate where they would have full membership rights to legislate for the entire galaxy. If he meant not to answer to the FWA but be part of a legislative body alongside the FWA, it only made sense that he fully expected to control a voting bloc necessary for the FWA to answer to him. It's all swell and good to say the FWA could operate as it always had, but that is not the way a full Galactic Senate would work. If the FWA didn't have the votes, it wouldn't be legal to operate the way they always had.

This wasn't the time or place for a full rebuttal. It would come across as nothing but antagonistic, especially since he'd gone after a sitting FWA representative like a battleship with all guns blazing. In truth, York was quite certain now that the FWA was going to have to be very savvy with Thorne. Maybe a little duplicitous. York would push for even unethical if need be. Some closed door meetings with the senators needed to be held. No cameras, no crowds. But they needed to come to some sort of understanding.

At the same time, he didn't want to damage Thorne's position early. In regards to the more pressing matter of the growing Sith threat, Naboo joining Thorne would be helpful.

Unless Drast was talking out of both sides of his mouth, Drast gave Thorne's idea some bit of small support. York did not respond to Drast's comments. He simply opened his cigar box, pulled out his slightly smoked cigar and put it back between his lips unlit. What York wanted to say, Thorne didn't need to hear.

But what took York by surprise was the Jedi's near giddy attitude toward giving Thorne's federation such a voice, a blatant and angry anti-Jedi voice, in Galactic policy. Policy that with the right charismatic leader and enough systems and planets who agree, could come back to bite the Jedi right in the ass. The other Senate representatives and the Jedi rep here seemed to be so anxious for a hard, uneasy peace that they would put their own security and ideals at stake to get it. York was perplexed that the others didn't see this.

Maybe he was just too cynical? York doubted that.

@Sreeya @Wit @Rhogar @The Good Doctor @Nefieslab

 

[Nicolas Clément]

Galactic Senate? Did Nicolas hear that right? Thorne's proposed ideas would have representatives from all over, the New Republic, the FWA itself. Even Jedi, despite the guy's message about no force users. This seems actually pretty reasonable. The concept is something that Nicolas supports. There would be quite a lot of details that need to be worked out, not to mention would probably need to be voted on by the FWA for it's inclusion, and Nicolas would need to see how his home government would want him to vote on that. Nicolas would smile though, this forum is making good progress with that.

The Jedi seem to be taking it well.

"I agree as well. This is an interesting idea, very good concept. But yes, there are a lot of details that would need to be hashed out." he said. This could be something that might help shape the galaxy if it was put in placed, and something like this would not be easy to do, so he would agree with Senator Drast and the Jedi Master. There is a lot that would need to be worked out before this gets to a voting stage, can't just agree to a concept blindly without knowing the devil in the details after all. "I too, would be happy to meet again with everyone here in person about this in good time." he nodded his head. "Sound like a deal?" he turned his head towards Thorne's projection, asking him.

@Sreeya @Nefieslab @Wit @Isen @Rhogar @notsureifmissedanyone

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc heard the responses from the various Senators, his face largely devoid of expression. Frosty eyes took time to study each man as he spoke, and he found the terms to be reasonable. Internally, he knew he had the FWA backed into a corner in a way. If they said no to the idea of the Galactic Senate, it only proved that they had no intentions of hearing out the independent systems or giving them a voice. Emryc was slightly surprised by the Jedi’s response, but he mentioned nothing about it.

In the end, he simply nodded his head and offered a polite grin, “That sounds more than reasonable, Senators,” He said after a moment, “Please take the time to convene and present a proposal that may be acceptable by all parties. I will attend hopefully without incident next time,” Emryc waved to the Senators, “Thank you again for inviting me to this forum. Till next time.”

He signed off then, politely nodding to the camera staff until they left. He chuckled quietly to himself, thinking about all the ways he would corner and pin the FWA. He was a new fighter in the arena for this game, but he was one that knew how to deal some devastating blows. The galaxy would learn that soon enough.

Emryc reached for a cigarra, holding it out for an aide to light it before he popped it between his lips, “Schedule me that meeting with Queen tomorrow."

@Wit @The Good Doctor @Isen @Rhogar @Nefieslab

/Exit

 

[Vrashinal Karzinkaal]

Vrash would look back at Emryc when he spoke "Aye, I can do that, boy." he would then take one step into the hall after the cameras had departed, slapping one of the guards on the shoulders for their attention. "Inform the Queen that Mr. Thorne will be meeting her tomorrow. As he is injured, tell her to leave the day open for him. He will be there as early as his wounds allow."

The security guard would begin to argue, before a gauntleted hand rested on his lips. "That was not a request, whelp. Now run along. She has much to make up for, the least she can do is clear her schedule."

The guard would nod before departing. With the press having had their stories and departing, Vrash would step back into the room. "It's done, Mr. Thorne."

/thread Exit

@Sreeya

 

[Senator Zohn Maverick]

John Maverick would sit in silence the whole meeting. He already gauged what he needed to about the FWA, the Republic, and their respective Senators. They were a pathetic motley crew at best. Rising to his feet, puffing his cigar, and adjusting his cufflinks, he'd head for the exit. Being a political representative from Belsavis, a planet in the Independent Systems, he could just feel the condescension seeping from each of the 'Senators'. He had a stop to make before he went home to Belsavis. Despite, his personal support for the Jedi, his world fell just outside of Sith Space and he needed some kind of aid for his people. The FWA surely didn't care, likely the Republic too. Perhaps, this Mister Thorne, could marshal together some help. In the meantime though, he would have one of his staff get a message to Max. Maybe the Jedi could provide aid.

@Nefieslab @Sreeya

/Exit

 

[Maxims Tionson]

Max wasn’t going to say that the whole situation on Naboo had gone as smoothly as he would have liked but it was far from the disaster that it had seemingly promised to be with the crash. That the Sith would so openly attack a lone voice for Independent self-governance without interference from the Jedi or Sith was… well he wish he could say that it was a surprise. In his experience the Sith did not suffer those who would speak out against them.

Still, it seemed that their lone assassin had been rather ineffective on this occasion. He would keep an eye on the young politician however as he doubted the Sith would stop at one attempt. If the Sith failed to kill someone, he didn’t think they would just shrug their collective shoulders and move on.

It was the nature of the Dark Side to brood to the point of obsession so he didn’t think this was the end of it.

He bowed his head to the assembled Senators, noting the message he received from one of them without commenting aloud. Instead he would contact the senator in private once they were both free from the rest involved in the meeting.

“Senators – I thank you for including me.” He told them with a small, slightly sad, smile, “But I feel it may be in the best interest of public order for me to say my goodbyes and take my leave now. I hope to speak to you again soon, hopefully under better circumstances.”

Standing and giving the assembled senators a proper bow, Max would indeed take his leave and head for his ship within the senate building’s hanger. Sending a message back to the senator as he walked, advising he would be delighted to attend a meeting with him, Max made sure his droid would have the ship ready to go so he didn’t need to delay.

The future would hold more of such talk he knew but that was a matter to be dealt with as it came.

/Exit Thread

@The Good Doctor @Rhogar @Wit @Isen @Sreeya