HoloNet TV networks would, one by one, tune in live to the image of Korre standing before a podium on Belasco. She was dressed neatly and stood with a sturdy expression on her features. It was not often that the Free Worlds Prime Minister made a statement, but she couldn’t ignore the events of the past few days.
Once she was given the green light to begin, the ginger-haired woman stepped forward and up to the mic.
“What happened on Kashyyyk is a tragedy. Millions upon millions of innocent Wookies lost their lives to Sith terrorism. More might have been lost if not for the brave efforts of those who came to their aid.
“One of those who came to aid were the ISCRA. They came, knowing they could potentially be put in harm’s way, to assist in the evacuation of civilians from the planet. They saved the lives of thousands, but instead of being welcomed with words of gratitude from nearby Free Worlds forces, they were met with sarcasm and hostility.
“The Senator of Kashyyyk’s hostility toward the ISCRA and Governor Ordalos will never be considered acceptable behavior for a representative of the Free Worlds. We are incredibly thankful for the selfless action of the ISCRA. I know that the thousands of lives they saved, too, are incredibly thankful. I am incredibly thankful.
“On behalf of the Belascan monarchy, we will be making a donation to the ISCRA so that they might continue to help those in need. To the senators and leaders of the Free Worlds listening, I urge you to consider doing the same. It should not—is not—indicative of our people to scorn those who assist us.”
Korre paused for a moment to gather her thoughts, as well as to allow her words to sink into listeners and viewers for a bit. She didn’t want this to get glossed over. Her senators knew she was displeased with the situation, but the galaxy needed to know as well. Their people would hold their senators responsible. The entire situation surrounding the ISCRA and Senator Aezzairrfhowrrhudrrl could have been avoided entirely if he’d just accepted the help, but that was not what he’d chosen to do. A lot of this could’ve been avoided if her senators didn’t harbor an irritating hatred for the government.
But, moving on.
“To the people of Kashyyyk: what happened to your planet was a tragedy. It was devastating. The Sith came to your world with only one goal in mind: terror.
“But you—citizens of Kashyyyk, and Wookies across the galaxy—you are not easily shaken. What is stronger than the might of your people? What is hardier than your resolve? What is more unshakable than your right to freedom? The Sith may have burned your world, but they will never burn away the values of your people.
“The Free Worlds will not abandon you. To those still on Kashyyyk, help is on the way. Take your time to grieve. Grieve for the lives lost. Grieve for your families, your neighbors, and your friends. Then straighten your backs, raise your heads, and remember the resolve of your people.
“The Sith makes inexcusable demands of us. They attack our worlds, kill our people, and then give us their demands. Citizens and leaders of the Free Worlds: Will we so easily surrender to the fear they wish to force down our throats? Will we allow them to demand of us who we should and shouldn’t allow within our borders? Will we give them an inch, so that they can take a mile?”
Korre paused. The pause only lasted a second or two before she continued.
“Citizens of Kashyyyk—citizens of the Free Worlds—those forced from their homeworlds, and anyone who has been scorned by Sith terrorism—we stand with you and for you. The Free Worlds will fight back—"
The Prime Minister's blue eyes shifted to make explicit eye contact with the camera.
"—and I invite you all to join us."