Faction Election Season II: Platformers & Politicos [GA Senate]

[Spirit of the Dawn]

War rages across the Galactic Alliance! Sectors once deemed safe now face the ire of the Galactic Empire and their criminal allies, the Black Sun Syndicate. Skirmishes between the forces of Light and Darkness occur regularly. Many have fallen in the wake of the Empire's rise within the Core Worlds, forcing some member states to question whether or not the Alliance truly serves the best interests of their member planets. With Hapes and Ukatis' departure from the fold, more and more senators call for a concession of territory in an effort to stem the bleeding. Whispers of rebellion spread across planets such as Atrisia and Veradune. Without a clear and competent leader to guide them in the war effort, the Alliance continues to struggle.

Not all is lost! Negotiations have begun in earnest with the neighboring High Republic to house refugees and open up secure lines of trade and transport. Both the Diarchy and the Imperial Confederation seek to bridge the gap and join the fight against the ever-expanding Galactic Empire. Those who've remained behind within the New Jedi Order work tirelessly to forge connections with their sister orders, while continuing to aid the worlds trapped beneath the Empire's dark shadow. More and more opportunities for the Galactic Alliance appear with each passing day.

Three senators have gained the necessary support to campaign for the position of Supreme Chancellor. Senator Tagge stands on a platform of decisive action, one forged by his recently introduced War Powers Article. Both Senators Feanor and Parthi share his beliefs, citing inaction and surrender as reprehensible in the face of this great enemy. All three call for unity if the Alliance hopes to stand against the Empire's might, but with who and how they intend to achieve it remains to be said.

The Senate gathers within the Grand Convocation Chamber of Fondor City. This meeting will be the final opportunity to pose questions to the candidates to determine the extent of their plan once elected to the position of Supreme Chancellor. Who will walk away with the support necessary to win the vote in coming weeks? Who shall falter in these final moments?

---

DISCLAIMER: This one is pretty straightforward, folks. Think of it like a combination between a debate and an interview. Senators will be given the opportunity to question the candidates to determine their beliefs, platform, and plan going forward. Be patient. Give them the opportunity to answer one question at a time, rather than bombard them. We'll be providing a 48 hour window after a question is presented for a nominee to answer before moving on to the next. Communicate if you need an extension.

Have fun!

Nominees: Alexandra Feanor | Arsenio Tagge | Feridade Parthi
Senators: Ariana du Couteau | Cressida Tolliver | Tiber Septimus | Mykel Dawson | Exum Jern | Annasari | Sycorax Laveaux | Salocin Lear | William Harris | Brun Rostu | Helios Ardemark
Arbitrator: Marek Bancroft

 

[Adriana Fortemps]

// Aide Fortemps //
// Focus // Senatorial Floor //

---

---

A small group of politicians surrounded Adriana as she made her way towards the senatorial platform, a meagre group as fitting a planet such as Froswythe. Famous for nothing whatsoever, it had served it's purpose in supporting the anonymity that the Echani had desired, and yet with such little to do, boredom had managed to creep it's way into the edges of Adriana's mind.

Adriana.

A name still so unfamiliar to the woman, even as the other aides called it as they discussed recent events. News of attacks and political upheaval that had dragged the woman out of her quiet little slice of the stars. The galaxy had been shifted while Adriana secret herself away on Froswythe and the safety net that had been the Galactic Alliance had been violently shaken by the actions of the Galactic Empire. But there was something thrilling about the upheaval and, like a spider curious of the buzzing at the edge of her web, Adriana had once again decided to take to the senatorial chamber and see what the galaxy had made of itself.

The Froswythe delegation was yet again missing their senator, a figure more reserved than the Echani herself. As such, Lady Fortemps would be leading the delegation, though with no intent to stir up anything. She would be satisfied as but an observer to the events that would unfold, quietly looking over the data pads for information about the three candidates for the chancellorship.

Adriana was interested in seeing how they would deal with the pressures demanded of them by the Senate floor and the answers they would suggest for the behemoth that was the Galactic Emperor. Unfamiliar with all of them on a personal level, there was admittedly a bias in her chest towards the representative of Eshan, Feridade Parthi , even if there was little ties between her and the homeworld of her people. For now, she would get in position on the platform and await the arrival of the rest of the Senate.

 

[Arsenio Tagge]

The Tepasi pod doors sighed closed and the chamber's murmur folded itself into a single long note. Arsenio Tagge stepped in last, cloak brushing the polished rim, Hassan slipping in beside him with a datapad tucked under one arm. Behind them a lean line of aides and campaign managers packed into the pod like extra paragraphs in a statement. For a moment the only sound was the soft whirr of the pod repositioning and the distant rasp of other pods shuffling into line.

Tagge did not sit. He let the pod settle around him, then walked to the front and rested both hands on the rail, the picture of ease made for cameras and senators alike. His face was still from the last speech, but there was an edge now, the purposeful focus of a man who knew what he wanted and had already decided he would take it.

"Mr Speaker," he said, voice carrying the practiced cadence of a public man, "I move unanimous consent that the War Powers Resolution be entered into the record."

A beat of silence as the chamber registered the formality. If the Chair acknowledged the motion, the clerks would flick holos and the text would fold into the public stream to become an official matter of the proceedings. Tagge remained quiet to allow his first procedural victory to come to fruition.

"Further," he continued, lowering his voice so the microphones would favor clarity over theatrics, "I ask for unanimous consent that this Senate enter into executive session so that declared candidates for the Chancellorship may speak frankly about the execution of the war effort without fear that sensitive material or operational judgments will be disseminated to enemy ears or civilian broadcasts."

Around him aides straightened, some checking secure channels, others cataloguing who would speak and in what order should the motion pass. There was a lean conditionality to the request. Tagge was not asking to hide governance. He was asking to protect the Alliance midstream.

"If the Senate grants this," he added, "candidates will be able to outline, in clear and candid terms, their proposals for the execution of this horrific war."

He sat then, and smirked at his ingenuity. His motion would force the chamber into a position where vagueness could no longer suffice. Every candidate, himself included, would be compelled to strip away the comfort of slogans and abstractions and speak instead to the raw mechanics of war. Tagge knew better than anyone that once a gauntlet was thrown, few could afford to retreat without exposing the hollowness of their claims.

Alexandra Feanor | Feridade Parthi | Adriana Fortemps | The Senate​

 

[Tiber Septimus]

Tiber hummed thoughtfully, pouring over the War Powers Resolution. He absentmindedly tugged on his lightsaber holster, hidden on his wrist under long, flowing robes; he had foregone such a thing since he left his father's court, but His Majesty, King Uriel Septimus IV, had personally implored him; news of the Imperials barging into a live Senate session had scared the monarch, and he had all but begged his son to arm himself.

"We live in dangerous times", he warned.

Tiber finished the text, satisfied that it these emergency powers would not be a rubber-stamp for any aspiring despot. He turned on his microphone.

"I have several questions, all addressed to the nominees", he began.

"How do you envision a post-war galaxy, and what are your plans for the Imperials?"

"How will you plan to handle our growing refugee crisis?"

"How will you jump-start our economy?"

"What is your stance on individuals in the Jedi Order that have abandoned the Alliance?"

Tiber paused, then asked his last question.

"What are your thoughts on the Intelligence Reform and Galactic Security Act?"


Nominees: Alexandra Feanor | Arsenio Tagge | Feridade Parthi
Senators: Ariana du Couteau | Cressida Tolliver | Exum Jern | Annasari | Sycorax Laveaux | Salocin Lear | William Harris | Brun Rostu | Helios Ardemark
Arbitrator: Marek Bancroft

 

[Feridade Parthi]

| Location | Senate Chamber, Fondor
| Objective | Campaign for the Future

Back on Fondor once again. He was tired following the meeting overseeing the secession of the Ukatian people from the Galactic Alliance. Little time had passed since then, and he didn't have much rest or time to prepare for the docket today, but given his stance on the status of the Alliance and the platform he presented, either his earnest and heartfelt opinions would reach his peers and do something, or the Alliance may be doomed to fall under less savory leadership. ​

​

He wished to speak further with Chancellor Kalantha of the High Republic following the meeting at Ukatis, but it was neither the time nor the place to rediscuss and outline the relationship of the Galactic Alliance and the High Republic. Their partnership would be vital to maintaining the line against the Galactic Empire. But he was beginning to lay the groundwork for relations under the table for potential allies against the Galactic Empire, whether he was voted to become Chancellor or not, the Alliance needed support in light of the increasing Imperial threat.​

​

The Echani senator adjusted himself as he entered his pod. Arsenio Tagge had already moved to be the first among the nominated representatives to speak. A subtle roll of the eyes for one brief moment played across his features before his amber eyes focused on his opponent for the elections. The man was certainly confident, if not egotistical and arrogant - the latter traits proving to be useless, if not detrimental to the Alliance as a whole.​

​

Tagge would find himself sorely mistaken if they believed that putting forth the War Powers Resolution would be of any benefit to them. Parthi was a well-decorated officer both during his time within the Echani Defense Force and within the ranks of the NIO when they occupied Eshan. The battlefield and war were the farthest things from a stranger to him since he had become a politician. The difference was, both had shaped him to become a more compassionate and empathetic individual.​

​

Yes, the Alliance needed a strong leader who would do more than just speak, but they needed a leader who was tempered both mentally and emotionally. They needed the strength and will to mend broken ties, forge bonds stronger than before, and reinvigorate the will of the people they would lead. When he looked at Tagge, he did not see a man capable of speaking with the High Republic without both insulting and deprecating them, or any prospective allies for that matter. He saw a man who would turn people away with his animosity and rather bullish attitude.​

​

His gaze shifted over to the other candidate for the Chancellor election, Alexandra Feanor . This one he knew less about, but had heard her speeches during the more recent Senate gatherings. Passionate, yes, but a Jedi who would take the place of Chancellor did not inspire much confidence in him, as much as he both admired and disagreed with Alicio Organa for his leadership. He was skeptical at best at what a Jedi turned politician could accomplish.​

​

Senator Tiber Septimus was among the first to begin the discussions by presenting questions for the nominees to answer so that their peers could make a more informed decision. Each of his responses would be given per the question asked, with the next only being given once his colleagues had offered theirs to the prior question.​

​

"Our priority at this time should be to contain the Empire's spread and ebb their war efforts. We have spread ourselves too thin, and as a result. have failed to anticipate the movement of our enemies. We must be better prepared for their ongoing campaign by consolidating our forces to intercept and neutralize key threats. Other worlds, like Ukatis, have offered much insight to the shortcomings and promises we failed to deliver upon. When the war against the Empire is over, I would like to more intently address these concerns with earnest efforts to restore the trust and faith people hold both within the Alliance and abroad."​

​

"Many worlds under the rule of the Empire are not serving under their own freedom and volition; it is important to remember that there are many who are simply unfortunate bystanders caught in the Empire's wake. The Imperials will face fair trials, their leaders held accountable for their actions and parts under the rule of Darth Solipsis , and their soldiers and citizens offered amnesty if they renounce their loyalties to the Empire, and be offered paths to reintegration. It is important to remember that we are not the Empire - we do not execute people simply because they are or were our enemy."​

​

"The Alliance has suffered catastrophic losses in light of the Galactic Empire's rise to power, but that does not give us an excuse to neglect all those affected and thrown to the side in its wake. Refugees will be sheltered through coordinated relief efforts and resettlement programs. As an Alliance, it is our shared responsibility across all systems to ensure that refugees are treated with dignity. They need to be given a chance to rebuild their lives, and will be able to offer the systems that take them in additional labor and help rebuild lost infrastructure."​

​

"Unfortunate as it may be, war does come with many opportunities to boost our economy. During times of hardship, innovation and technological developments emerge. Starship and weaponry production will increase as we shift our focus to bolstering our own war efforts with increased infrastructure and jobs."​

"I hold no ill will towards the former Grandmaster of the New Jedi Order, nor those who have left with her. However, as you have said, they have abandoned the Alliance during our darkest hour when their aid would have been much needed to prevent the advance of the Galactic Empire. She and those who have left the Alliance have lost the trust I hold in them, but that is not to say that I have lost faith in the Jedi as a whole. When the Empire had me captured and tortured, it was not the Jedi Order that had come to my aid, but the Lightsworn and the Jedi of the High Republic. It is this act of selflessness that has led me to believe that we must utilize them in our battle against the Empire, to fight their monsters with heroes capable of matching their atrocities. They are invaluable allies and assets for the times ahead."​

​

"Intelligence will play a vital role in the ongoing war effort, both foreign and domestic. I have faith that the proposed GAID will prove to be a critical factor in the war and the years that follow. Until its complete integration with existing intelligence bureaus and the military though, I cannot offer much other than my interest and support."​

​

Arsenio Tagge | Adriana Fortemps | Tiber Septimus | Ariana du Couteau | Cressida Tolliver | Exum Jern | Annasari | Sycorax Laveaux | Salocin Lear | William Harris | Brun Rostu | Helios Ardemark | Marek Bancroft​

 

[Alexandra Feanor]

Alexandra stood with her hands behind her back as she watched and listened to the conversations happening around them at the start of all of this. She knew that this would be a long day with a good number of questions that they would all need to answer for under the scrutiny of their peers. The ideas and thoughts of many would be resting on the shoulders of whoever did become the elected Chancellor, and they would have to shoulder a burden that would tax and strain them.

Thankfully, Alexandra did not need to concern herself as greatly with the normal strain and harm to her body as she stood there, the vessel containing her Tree not too far and as a result she looked far healthier than she had in the past weeks and months. Her gaze moving over the faces of those that had arrived, those like Marek Bancroft and Adriana Fortemps , individuals she knew only through their duties within the senate, and barely more than on a professional level.

She would not need to wait long for things to get started, looking towards Tiber Septimus and Cressida Tolliver , giving them the quick look to simply thank them again for their faith in supporting her run but nothing more. The Ysalmiri ensuring that her powers could not be used, a addition that she had quietly had added to her pod as the nutrient sack kept it alive and working. If someone were to ask why she did this, she could answer truthfully and honestly, having seen individuals sneak into the senate and use their powers for ill intent in the past.

Trust needed to be maintained after all.

Arsenio began and his words were difficult for her to consider. She was no commander, always the type to be on the front lines, fighting with her own hands and too focused on the thrill of that fight to consider the bigger picture. That kind of work was best kept to the Generals and Admirals who were far more suited for looking at the bigger picture. The Chancellor being involved that intimately, was that something that should happen?

She could not say so simply but would need to think it over.

For now Tiber's questions came, and she waited for Feridade Parthi to speak his mind on them. His thoughts were good, honest and proper beliefs that she could support herself but there were small things she disagreed on. Minor factors that she found herself opposed to and did not align with as she stood there listening to them, her gaze settling on the man for a long few moments before turning her gaze back towards Tiber. His questions had been difficult ones to truly speak with certainty on.

A post-war galaxy was something she wished was truly possible for one, but the truth of the matter was that such a thing would be difficult for anyone to envision accurately.

But, she would try to give the hope and comfort that she so often preferred to focus on.

"A post-war galaxy is something that I have long dreamed of. A place where the mass destruction of such wars is in the past. Peace, not for a few moments but for a generation, for many generations is something we all dream of. A place where the greatest conflict we must suffer is whether too much money is being spent on some kind of program, rather than where refugees need to go in order to be safe from the destruction and death." Her frown touching her lips, her voice stronger and more clear today, the healing she had undergone only an hour ago helping her continue.

"I start my answer that way so that my next words are clear. There is few in these halls that would bend the knee and surrender our people to the Imperials. We must uphold our duties and oaths, to stand with our feet planted so that any who would stand for such death are cast down. Bills to support the Galactic Alliance Defense Forces are the start, a step towards the right end, but not the end of it all. The Imperial forces that have infested the Core must be dealt with and there is no half measures in this matter." She paused to move and grab something she had thought of proposing some time ago.

"In addition to the efforts mentioned by my peers, I offer this as well. The Imperials make use of weapons both scientific, and supernatural. Their leader is no more than another Sith seeking to crown himself emperor. In failing to secure such a throne within the Sith itself, he has brought his vile and inhuman powers to build up a group that has no empathy or care for the people they now use as human sacrifices and slaves to build for themselves more power." She considered for a moment if she was right to do what she suggested next.

"The question of the Jedi, and what to do with the Imperials are the same. The Jedi should never have been pushed away from our halls. They should be standing among us, a representative in these halls, their members standing beside our soldiers officially and with the power granted to ensure they are able to defend us and our people from those powers that are beyond what is natural. My peer Feridade Parthi has mentioned the efforts of the Lightsworn, of the Jedi from the High Republic, they have done what we should have been able to do. Those Jedi who have abandoned the Alliance did so as civilians, they were not a member of our government, they did not answer to us, but they did leave to fight their own war. But we have individuals who have not, individuals like Jand Talo , Kyric , and Corazona von Ascania . These few I have mentioned want to stand by our sides and defend the people of the Alliance, we must do our part to allow them so that these Imperials, these Sith wearing a mask to hide what they are, are wiped from the Core." She settled her gaze on Arsenio and Feridade, not arguing against them, but rather looking to the gauge how they felt in involving Jedi so intimately with the Alliance once more.

"And please, let me be clear, this suggestion is not for Jedi alone. The Alliance will not be dragged into an ideological fight between two factions of a population that has billions of different faiths. The Miralukans have their own view of the force, just as those who live on Zonama Sekot. While I seek to bring the Jedi in, as healers, ambassadors, guardians, and warriors, I offer the same to any who would stand in defense of the people of the Alliance. Protecting those who cannot do such is our chief duty and oath, that we must serve our people and uphold the rights of them to live in a more peaceful galaxy. Refugees stranded given places where they need not fear death in the loss of their homes and families already, business owners certain that the next day wont end in the bankruptcy or struggle they sought to escape. Anyone who will stand for that goal, for those ideals, must be given the support to ensure the Imperials are not simply defeated, that they are wiped from the Core and their influence stamped out."

 

[Arsenio Tagge]

"Our galaxy has spent much of the last millennia at war." The Baron was the last candidate to speak, after Parthi's pontification and Feanor's tempered obfuscation. He changed the tone of his voice again to account for his audience. No more cameras meant that he did not have to wax philosophical and hide behind platitudes. He could account for deeds.

"I will be plain. This war will not be ended with half-measures or clever evasions. Anyone who commands the industries of state, anyone who directs troops or guides starships in the name of His Imperial Farce, are war criminals. They should be tried as such, before an independent tribunal, so that justice is not mistaken for vengeance and peace is not mistaken for indulgence. We cannot afford another cycle where yesterday's conquerors are tomorrow's partners."

He tapped the rim of the pod before continuing.

"Many nations have risen and fallen in the last 1,000 years. Emperors and Chancellors and Presidents have come and gone. A post-war society is one that no one in this chamber has ever truly known and yet it is possible. Very much possible." He paused to look directly at Septimus. "We have many allies and potential allies amongst the stars. The High Republic which rescued our dear Senator Feridade Parthi . The Diarchy, perhaps. The Imperial Confederation...perhaps one day even the Mandalorians might decide they want to be friends again! In order for that to happen, in order for us to create a post-war society we must be bold and recognize that the institutions of yesterday are no longer serving us and a new system of self-respect and accountability must be imposed in the galaxy."

His voice dropped again, more measured now.

"I am the product of a legacy," he continued, his hand resting briefly on the edge of the pod as if to steady the weight of the name he carried. "My cousin, Emmen Tagge, took a fractured galaxy and united the Core Alliance, the Jedi, and the Corellian Confederation into the Galactic Alliance we defend today. 42 years ago he faced a crossroad and he built a new lane. We must choose to do the same."

His voice hardened, narrowing into the chamber. "The Jedi, too, stand at a crossroads. Those who abandoned this Alliance when the war turned bitter chose betrayal. They are traitors. Yet those who stayed, who fight and bleed alongside us for democracy in the face of that betrayal, deserve our unreserved respect. They are proof that the Order is not defined by its leaders but by its faithful. If those who left seek reintegration one day, I will not close the door. But they should not return as saviors. They cannot be arbiters of morality. That ship has sailed, as the saying goes."

He straightened, his tone taking on the cadence of a builder sketching blueprints. "A new way of life must follow this war. A new Yavin Code, stripped of what has grown obsolete and reinforced with what we have learned from centuries of conflict. A new system of free movement among our allies, a new common market to stabilize and expand our prosperity, and a new agreement of collective security to ensure that no world stands alone. A new way of things will not end war forever. Nothing will. But it will blunt war's edge, make it rarer, make it harder, and that is the duty of statesmanship."

He shifted, voice softer now but still insistent. "If I am elected Chancellor, every action I take will be in pursuit of a new, just, and democratic society. Take the refugee crisis for example. It is much easier to use natural geography to arrange staggered arrivals across previously identified worlds, relieving pressure from the most vulnerable worlds and creating defensible corridors. Same goes with agriculture and logistics. Why not attack the roots of the crisis not with speeches, but with the creation of a War Production Board? Cut through red tape, mobilize industries, and guarantee that grain and water flow where they are needed most. Workers and farmers should not be smothered by regulation in their attempt to feed us. The Alliance cannot fight if it cannot eat."

"I've ranted too much, but I do hope I answered all your questions." Hassan passed him a note. "Intelligence reform? I intend to vote for the Intelligence Reform and Galactic Security Act, without amendment."

Alexandra Feanor | Feridade Parthi | Adriana Fortemps | Tiber Septimus | The Senate ​

 

[Ariana du Couteau]

Ariana du Couteau
Location: Fondor
Outfit

Ariana sighed softly into her hands. While she couldn’t hide her true feelings as well as her brother, it was important to disguise such exasperations in public. A part of her wondered how well surveilled the Senate Chambers truly were. The Chamber itself was massive, and Ariana felt rather hidden within her Senatorial Pod. There were hundreds of more important people to focus on anyway. She mused on that as, case in point, the Chancellor Nominees had begun to speak and stake their claims to the office.

Senator Tagge was the first, and one of his more interesting points was pushing for the War Powers Resolution. Ariana smiled to herself as she looked down at her data-slate. Her brother had left her notes, and one of them was to read that document. Thankfully, it was a rather brief read for the young du Couteau heiress, not that it helped Ariana understand the political situation any better. Still, she at least felt a sense of pride in knowing something about the matter at hand.

The next Senator spoke, one Tiber Septimus. Ariana mouthed the name as she looked down at her data-slate. He laid out a few questions in advance for the next Chancellor Candidates, a helpful way to guide future discussions. Though, in her opinion, asking more than three was a bit too greedy. Too many questions, and there was a good chance the Candidates would forget at least one, either on purpose or not.

She remembered her father explaining a simple idea behind speeches and public speaking: if the goal was to leave an impression, it was important to state three points. Even if the subject was complex, it was easier to remember three complex ideas than a litany of difficult, convoluted statements. Not that she ever needed such advice, Ariana had made it her life’s goal to avoid situations where she’d have to speak about anything except agreements and decided plans.

Though it has become harder and harder to avoid such occasions… as rare as they were.

The next Senator was one of the Candidates, one Ariana herself had nominated in the last session. Senator Parthi was well spoken, his elegance reminding her of past Noble gatherings and their keynote speeches. Though much of what he said flowed in one ear and out the other, the last part of his speech caught and snagged in her mind.

Anytime the topic turned toward the Jedi and opinions about them, Ariana grew concerned. It seemed nearly impossible to separate negativity from praise when it came to the Jedi, their strengths always accompanied by their failings. She silently hoped that other subjects would take higher priority in deliberation and discussion.

Sadly, such was not the case. As Ariana continued to listen, it appeared that other topics were being pushed forward, the future, and how the Alliance would help shape it. She pressed her digi-pen to her data-slate and began to take a few notes, hoping the effort might alleviate her growing anxiety.

She sorely missed the bliss of political ignorance.
​

|| Adriana Fortemps | Tiber Septimus | Feridade Parthi | Alexandra Feanor | Arsenio Tagge ||​

 

[Tiber Septimus]

Tiber silently scribbled notes, glancing up at each candidate, and around his colleagues to gauge their opinions.

Feridade Parthi spoke first. Tiber appreciated that the Senator from Eshan took stock of the state of things- that the Alliance had been on the back-foot- and offered a solution other than appeasement. Additionally, it was refreshing that Parthi spoke of the need to bring Imperials to justice- perhaps indicating that the Alliance wouldn't let the rats- the shot-callers, the leaderrs- flee the ship to fight another day, like during the fall of the Dark Empire.

Alexandra Feanor was next. She seemed to be in better physical health then she been in some times, which would probably dispel concerns. Tiber was inclined to agree with her on her stances, but he also feared that her stance on the Jedi would cause her difficulties. Several prominent Jedi- up to and including the Grandmaster- abandoned the Alliance.

Arsenio Tagge was last. His speech was most interesting, particularly his vision of a post-war society, and the role their allies could possibly played in it. The " Yavin Code" sounded promising.

"Thank you, Senators, for your time. I yield the floor, to allow my colleagues the opportunities for additional questions."


Nominees: Alexandra Feanor | Arsenio Tagge | Feridade Parthi
Senators: Ariana du Couteau | Cressida Tolliver | Exum Jern | Annasari | Sycorax Laveaux | Salocin Lear | William Harris | Brun Rostu | Helios Ardemark
Arbitrator: Marek Bancroft

 

[Adriana Fortemps]

// Aide Fortemps //
// Focus // Senatorial Floor // Tiber Septimus // Arsenio Tagge // Feridade Parthi // Alexandra Feanor // Ariana du Couteau //

---

---

As Senator Septimus yielded the floor to more speakers, the Froswythe delegation would be the next to take the role. His questions had been effective and the answers from the candidates had been well thought out, though there were certainly some notes to make. Above all else had been concern about the Jedi's failures, one that Adriana found herself misaligned with the majority.

Despite her past differences with them, she herself found it difficult to deny the necessity of the Jedi. All those present seemed to be treating the Jedi as a government body, one that was simply an absolute; either they were with the GA or they weren't. And yet in spite of the exit of the former grandmaster and many of the other Jedi, there was no doubt that they would be there if the GA needed, no matter what order they served.

It remained that the Jedi were not the enemy, and that focus would need to be shifted onto the true threat to the Galactic Alliance. That is what the Froswythe delegation hoped to ascertain, as well as each nominee's feelings towards the Empire.

With thanks to Arsenio Tagge 's request to enter into an executive session, Adriana's question could be asked without fear of public backlash. It would be a simple one, yet controversial. Still, she hoped that it would be able to allow those that would lead the fight against the Galactic Empire in such trying times.

"To those nominated to the seat of Chancellor, I ask a simple question. Why should we not simply cede territory to the Empire? What do we gain from being the vanguard against Imperial aggression?"

It was not an easy question to be asked, all present gave hope that the fight was one that could be won. And yet the strength of the Empire was apparent to all present, and thoughts of defeat haunted the back of the minds of those gathered. Uproar gathered from some of those present, clearly upset by the idea of defeat being announced.

It was a question that needed to be asked, however. As strong as all the answers they gave to Tiber Septimus, there were too many questions to be able to speak fully on any specifically. So with one question Adriana sought not to understand how they would fight back against the Empire, but why they fought.

 

[Cressida Tolliver]

Cressida watched the proceedings silently thus far, her eyes flicking between this pod and that as her colleagues bandied about. Her dark eyes were impassive. She couldn't give less of a damn about the suspicions of the Jedi if there was a pill designed to achieve it. It would be wonderful to get the New Jedi Order proper back on sides, but she rather doubted it. The Jedi had been publicly insulted, had their motivations questioned, had been humiliated in front of the entire galaxy by the Senate. The Alliance had made it clear to everyone, the Jedi included, where everyone stood.

Under normal circumstances, a Chancellor who was also a Jedi would be inadvisable. There had to come a moment where one chose a lane. She trusted Alexandra Feanor and her judgment, and Alexandra would enjoy her support for at least the first round of voting. But Cressida had questions of her own.

She rose, signaled the Arbitrator, and leaned into her microphone. "Mister Speaker, I rise to pose the following question to the candidates: following the Alliance's concessions regarding Hapes and Ukatis, and the Senate's apparent willingness to dispose of its responsibility to defend and govern other portions of its territory, what -- if anything -- will your administrations do in response to possible future secession efforts?"

Nominees: Alexandra Feanor | Arsenio Tagge | Feridade Parthi
Arbitrator: Marek Bancroft
Senators: Ariana du Couteau | Exum Jern | Annasari | Sycorax Laveaux | Salocin Lear | William Harris | Brun Rostu | Helios Ardemark | Tiber Septimus