Faction The Fate of Alderaan (THR)

[Gram Arranda]

​

Fearing an invasion by the Sith Covenant, the government of Alderaan sent a delegation of ambassadors to Naboo with an earnest request: let Alderaan join the High Republic as a member world. Chancellor Dominique Vexx has already agreed to station Republic military forces in the Alderaan system as a gesture of solidarity, but the question of membership must be decided upon by the Senate.

Ambassador Gram Arranda and Junior Ambassador Liana Organa have arranged a reception at the newly renovated Alderaanian Embassy in Theed to promote their cause. The event—featuring live music, food, and a showcase of Alderaanian culture—is open to all interested parties. Make connections and network with political figures, explore the exhibits, and enjoy the festivities. The fate of Alderaan is in your hands.

OOC: This thread will function as the Senate hearing for the Alderaanian Cession Bill. At the end, there will be an OOC vote on the bill to determine whether or not steps will be taken to usher Alderaan into the High Republic.

 

[Gram Arranda]

Gram stood in the wings of the convention hall stage, dressed to the nines and with his hair perfectly coiffed. In a few minutes, he would be going out on stage. His prepared greeting was very short—only a few sentences welcoming the guests and thanking them for coming—and yet he still felt uneasy. His eyes darted toward his wife Vera, who was peering past the curtain. “How many people are out there?” he asked.

She turned to look at him, the long train of her blue satin gown pooling like liquid around her as she moved. “Plenty,” she replied. Seeing the uncertain look on his face, she stepped closer to him, reaching for his hand. “Don’t worry about the numbers. We already know that they hear us.”

Gram sighed, knowing she was right. Ever since he was called upon to lead the delegation, he had struggled with a lingering sense of inadequacy. Much of it could be attributed to being away from his homeworld and living in a foreign land. But he was also afraid, not that they would be misunderstood or misconstrued, but that Alderaan’s pleas would be ignored. Part of him still expected to see no one on the other side of the curtain; an empty room, devoid of hope.

So far the High Republic had been receptive to Alderaan’s plight. The convention hall was far from empty—and it was time for him to go. He gave Vera’s hand a reassuring squeeze, then stepped out onto the stage, making his way to the podium.

“Welcome to the Embassy of Alderaan. Before we begin, I would like to thank you all for coming. Your support means… everything to us. Now, without further ado, please enjoy yourselves.”

On cue, the musicians began playing an Alderaanian symphonic suite. Server droids began distributing food and drinks to the guests. Gram left the stage, still feeling like a great weight was on his shoulders. His hand found Vera’s again, and the couple went out together, mingling with the crowd.

Tags: OPEN​

 

[Liana Organa]

- Open to interaction - ​

Liana flashed Gram Arranda a thumbs up from across the convention halls he stepped down from the stage. There was a decent turnout so far, a mix of politicians, entrepreneurs, and the press. Time would tell if anything came of the gathering. People could flatter and schmooze all night long, but it didn't mean anything until their vote was made. That was what they were here for, she supposed; to convince those sitting on the fence to come on over to their side. To see that Alderaan and the High Republic would both be better off in union with one another. Liana hoped she was up to the task.

The Princess of Alderaan had put on one of her finest dresses: a white and gold gown of traditional Alderaanian fashion. She was pretty sure there was a replica of this exact manner of royal dress somewhere in the Embassy's gallery, which would be a bit embarrassing. Too late to change now. Highlighting their culture was a key focus of the evening anyway. She even had her hair up in old-school star puffs.

As the crowds mingled, Liana positioned herself centrally, so that any who wished to speak to her about the night's events (or indeed the Alderaanian Cession Bill) would be able to locate the young junior ambassador posthaste.

 

[Eadu Yittreas]

The reception was a sea of vibrant silks and the rhythmic clinking of crystal, but his entrance created a quiet, devastating ripple. Eadu was a creature of the rotunda, a fixture of the dark-wood pods and the clinical artificiality of the Senate floor. Seeing him here, amidst the warmth of Alderaanian hospitality and the scent of blooming nectar, would mark the end of Alderaan's hopes for joining the High Republic.

He failed to recognize the worth of a planet that still held onto the notion of noble-rule due to the remote possibility that the King of Naboo might ally with them to secure greater representation in the Senate and therefore increasing the power of the current Chancellor over the other delegations.

To many, such a thought was mere paranoia but to him it was a historical concern. After all, the Republic itself had emerged from the centralization of power within the Royal Naboo Republic. He moved with a quiet grace, his modest black tunic absorbing the golden light of the chandeliers rather than reflecting it.

As he passed, the chatter of minor diplomats faltered. He caught the subtle looks of surprise the widening of eyes, the reflexive clutching of wine stems. They were not used to seeing the Senator of Alassa Major in the wild. "Senator Yittreas," a breathless aide stammered, stepping aside. "We... we didn't expect you."

"You certainly didn't, yet here I stand." A straightforward reply that kept everyone in the dark about why he was here.

 

[Rémiel Durevant]

Naboo to say the least, was a breathtaking planet, and that was hardly an exaggeration. For someone like Rémiel, whose homeworld was nothing but sand dunes and vast oceans, the scenery felt almost unreal. Though he could easily have indulged in everything this world had to offer, such distractions were not the main purpose of the day even if the guard tasked with keeping him in check had already needed to pull him back in line a couple of times before they even reached the event location.

During the journey from Savareen to Naboo, Rémiel had reviewed the purpose of the trip: a hearing concerning Alderaan’s integration into the High Republic. If he was honest with himself, he could see the reasoning. For one, it would effectively guarantee aid in the event of an invading force arriving at a world’s borders, and for another, it would open the door to far more trade opportunities and who didn’t appreciate a steady flow of credits?

As the ambassador concluded their introduction to tbe event, Rémiel took the opportunity to secure the one thing that always helped him endure social events: something mildly alcoholic. Fortunately, a serving droid soon obliged. Now, all that remained was to mingle.

 

[Ayumi Pallopides]

Liana Organa Gram Arranda Dominique Vexx Rémiel Durevant Eadu Yittreas

The discussions previously with the delegation from Alderaan had been most fruitful at least she had found it. Alderaan was a strong world for them to be able to help if they could. If had strong symbolism and ties in many cases that they would be able to foster relations with... and its diplomats were skilled. She was all for it, even committing a keth class for helping them and they would be able to do a lot more she figured if they could work it out. So here at the Alderaanian embassy well she stood with a small nod of her head. The vote in her opinion was more a formality as most would like vote yes given how it had been in the first meeting but they would have to see. She looked at the princess and offered a small smile as she spoke. "Princess you look lovely."

 

[Cassian Abrantes]

Liana Organa ​

General Cassian Abrantes arrived in formal military dress, the dark lines of his uniform cut clean and precise, every insignia placed exactly where it belonged. He carried himself the way he always did, upright, composed, deliberate. Senate receptions were not his natural terrain, but duty rarely asked what felt comfortable.

He had come for one reason.

Alderaan deserved the Republic's protection, and the Republic deserved Alderaan's voice within it.

The music, the art, the careful presentation of culture did not distract him from the undercurrent beneath the evening. This was about survival. About drawing a line before the Sith Covenant decided to draw it for them.

His gaze found Princess Liana quickly. White and gold caught the light as she stood central to the hall, poised and attentive.

Cassian crossed the floor without spectacle and offered a respectful nod.

"Princess" he greeted her politely. "General Cassian Abrantes. I wanted you to know I stand in full support of Alderaan's petition."

His tone was calm, direct.

"The Army will gladly honor the Chancellor's commitment to station forces in your system. And should membership pass, you will find no hesitation from us."

A faint, reassuring look settled in his expression.

"Alderaan will not stand alone."

 

[Eharl Sarn]

​

Senate Hall
Alderaanian Embassy | Naboo
Items: x

​

Ahh, what beauty indeed, the Ithorian Senator of Enarc gave an approving hum as his amber eyestalks surveyed the way the Alderaanian embassy seemed to shimmer as guests meandered and enjoyed quiet conversation.

Senator Sarn stood within the grand hall, his broad frame illuminated by chandeliers that cast soft gold across polished floors and his olive-tinted skin. The air carried the scent of floral arrangements and spiced wine, drawing another intrigued hum from both throats.

Indeed, his eyes sparkled at the thought of what sort of tea and conversation he might find here.

A low hum rolled from both of his throats as he surveyed the exhibits, amber eye stalks drifting over holodisplays of Alderaanian mountains and orchestras, of artisans and scholars. Fear had driven this reception, yes, but the fact that these reboust people were looking towards action and what to do to protect their world was honorable and prudent action.

Sarn, for once, was without his aide, as this was more of a social matter, and he turned toward the refreshments. There stood Senator Rémiel Durevant of Savareen.

Ah! Finally, an opportunity had come!

The Ithorian approached with gentle, deliberate steps, his hum deepening warmly as he inclined his great head in greeting.

"Senator Durevant," Eharl Sarn greeted with that tell-tale Ithorian resonating hum layered with natural harmony. "I have always found that the way a world celebrates tells you what it values. What do you see here tonight?"

​

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

Tags: Gram Arranda

Aurelian watched from the back of the hall, a glass of wine balanced between his fingers. He had arrived unfashionably early, which meant he had time to observe. The Alderaanians had chosen spectacle over desperation. Music swelled. Lights gleamed against polished marble. Server droids glided past with jeweled trays.

Wine them. Feed them. Remind the Republic what they stand to gain. He took a slow sip, eyes narrowing as Ambassador Arranda stepped onto the stage. The man looked composed, but Aurelian caught the tightness in his shoulders. Good. Fear meant stakes.

"Welcome to the Embassy of Alderaan…"

Short. Polite. Vulnerable in just the right measure. Aurelian almost smiled. They were not begging. They were hosting. Clever. As the music rose and the crowd loosened, Aurelian began to move. He drifted through clusters of senators and aides, catching fragments of conversation.

He approached Arranda once the man had stepped down from the stage. "Ambassador Arranda," Aurelian greeted smoothly, inclining his head with practiced ease. "A fine evening. Alderaan does not do things halfway."

His gaze flicked briefly around the hall before settling back on Gram. "Tell me, how fares your plan for securing aid? The Republic seems well entertained."

A faint smile touched his lips. "And will your Queen grace us with her presence tonight?"

​

 

[Rémiel Durevant]

Eharl Sarn

Rémiel couldn’t help but indulge in a bit of people watching as the hall gradually filled. Some attendees struck him as clear supporters of Alderaan’s integration into the wider Republic, while others seemed equally likely to oppose it though from such limited observation, he could only guess at their reasons.

Lifting his glass to his lips, he savored the flavor as it went down. If nothing else could be said about the event, it was shaping up to be an entertaining one. His internal musings, however, were cut short when he found himself approached by none other than the Senator of Enarc if he recalled correctly from the research he had done on the Republic’s senators. From what he remembered, the man was reputed to be a kind soul.

Offering a light smile and a simple nod in return, he greeted him.
“Senator Sarn.”
Finishing his drink, Rémiel took a moment to consider the question before finally responding.
“From what I’ve witnessed in my brief time here, culture is clearly held in high regard. Still, there’s a certain unease surrounding the event though I may be reading too deeply into it.”

 

[Verity Stuyveris]

​

Verity Stuyveris arrived to the embassy in a secure speeder, escorted by a tall, good-looking man who -- according to the optics her own office had arranged but would deny if asked -- was supposed to be her date. He had appeared in the press with Verity over the course of a few weeks, since her inflammatory speech at the Druckenwell Policy Institute. A coffee here, a walk in the park there, emerging from an exclusive restaurant on Theed, lingering in the lobby of her apartment building, once even appearing the balcony of her penthouse.

But Calren Voss was more than he appeared. One of Druckenwell's best marines, he had shattered marksmanship records, bested champions in hand-to-hand combat, and had a cortosis-plated telescoping rod in his pocket that he had wielded against lightsabers. A bodyguard that didn't look like a bodyguard, he had been added to Verity's detail -- above her objections -- when her name first started appearing in extremist circles following the DPI appearance. The events had increased after the sanctions regime, such that it would be plausible for Calren Voss to be seen staying overnight in her apartment if the need arose.

Oddly enough, this chatter hadn't come from the Covenant -- at least, not most of it. Most of it had come from within the Republic itself.

But Verity hadn't the time nor the inclination to stop the work. So she had agreed. And she allowed herself to soften in Cal's presence when it was appropriate, like when there were cameras nearby, like now. They wandered toward the bank of photographers. "Do you know what's terribly sad?" Verity whispered to Cal as they stopped to allow themselves to be photographed. Cal leaned in closer to listen. "I've passed legislation to stop Covenant trafficking in the Republic and have been working to maneuver the Republic into a fighting posture, and the only thing they're going to ask me about is my dress."

True to form one of the photographers called out: "Senator, who are you wearing?"

And Verity, because she was a representative of all of Druckenwell, smiled. "The House of Argen," she answered. "They're an intergenerational atelier on Druckenwell. As you can see they have excellent stakes, and I have impeccable tastes."

"And you?" they called to Cal.

"Valken & Thiss, head to toe," Cal answered.

They proceeded along to the entrance, and the press vultures were ready for the next one foolhardy enough to present themselves at this entrance. Cal didn't let his eyes linger anywhere for too long, watching like a hawk for any threats to the Senator.

OPEN for interacting​

 

[Liana Organa]

Ayumi Pallopides - Cassian Abrantes - Open​

If her status wasn't so widely known, Liana would look like a child abandoned at a party. Most everyone here was older and more experienced than she, and her decided lack of height caused her to be swallowed up in the crowd. Most of the adults were off politicking with each other, and so Liana's attention was already waning, her head bobbing along to the music absent-mindedly when the first individual of the evening at last approached her. It was the senator from Denon, whom Liana was already familiar with. That took off some of the pressure, at least, "Thank you." She greeted Ayumi with a curtsy, "And thank you again for your support to our cause. We will put the resources you've generously given us to good use."

Next, a man she didn't recognize came up, but his attire unmistakably marked him as military. He introduced himself as such. "Thank you, General." His words rang with more than just duty or responsibility. It was conviction which made his call to action not only believable, but comforting. "It gives me great reassurance to know that men of your commitment will be there to protect our world." She lowered her head graciously, "I hope Alderaan will be able to return the favor one day."

Liana's expression turned scrutinous not a moment later, analyzing the general's features, "General Abrantes, was it? I have to assume there is a relation there to one Sibylla Abrantes?"

 

[Ayumi Pallopides]

Liana Organa Cassian Abrantes

She gave a nod of her head to the teenager at that. "I hope if you need more or some fo the more advanced technologies we are using you will not hesitate to ask." She said it with a smile as Cassian came with a bow. She waited for a moment. "Maybe I will find you later after but you should make a trip to Denon to see some of what we have to offer." She bowed her head while moving off with a small sway of her hip but a grin. The military would be more helpful in the long run then the one ship they had offered even with its advancements but the terraforming and resource means were what would be helpful.

She saw Verity Stuyveris and a date with a small wave. "Senator and a strapping man. I hope you are doing well?" She said it and looked at the woman while her hands remained in front of herself with a small look at the two of them. A small shame but nothing unexpected and Drunkenwell was always fun. She knew Alli Wren had been there at one point and had shipyards. "I was hoping that my chief of staff Melanie Sato might have been able to reach you. Denon's terraforming and reconstruction technologies could benefit your endeavors and I was wanting to show them to you. The new beaches of Denon are fully integrated with our new smart water processing."

 

[Gram Arranda]

Gram kept an eye out for familiar faces. He recognized a few Republic Senators from when he first arrived on Naboo, such as Verity Stuyveris , Eharl Sarn and Ayumi Pallopides . The remaining blanks were filled with the help of his glasses, which provided digital data about every noteworthy person in attendance.

Take Aurelian Veruna for example. Though Aurelian did not introduce himself when he first approached Gram, the ambassador's lenses nonetheless informed him that this was the King of Naboo. "Your Majesty," Gram bowed in a greeting that was respectful, if a little cautious. "Indeed. Allow me to introduce my wife, Vera Merian Arranda."

Beside him, Vera curtsied. She was tall, willowy, and blue, with a sharp jawline that harshened her otherwise soft and classically beautiful features. She looked at Aurelian with keen and fearless eyes, studying him.

"Tell me, how fares your plan for securing aid? The Republic seems well entertained."

"I'd say we have it secured, in the form of Republic military forces stationed in the Alderaan system," Gram replied with a smile. "What we are truly after is membership within the Republic. That has proven more elusive, though I have hope that Alderaan will soon be able to count itself among the worlds of the Republic."

Membership was more than just aid. More than protection, even. It was symbolic - a message to the Sith and all the other factions that there was still one bastion of freedom and democracy left in the galaxy. Letting Alderaan join would mean that the Republic was making good on its promises, and would strike fear into the hearts of the evildoers in the Core and beyond.

"And will your Queen grace us with her presence tonight?"

Gram hesitated. When they had discussed the plans for the embassy reception, even Queen Amani seemed unsure if she would make an appearance. "Her Majesty is a very busy woman," he finally answered, "and it may be that she does not wish to take the spotlight away from Princess Liana, whose work as Junior Ambassador laid the foundation for diplomatic relations between Alderaan and the High Republic."

Aurelian Veruna​

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

Tags: Gram Arranda

Aurelian inclined his head toward Vera, a flash of realization crossing his face. "My apologies," he said smoothly. "I forget myself. On Naboo, people tend to know who I am before I open my mouth. A poor habit when new players arrive." His smile softened. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Arranda."

He studied them both as Gram spoke of membership. Military presence was simple. Symbolism was not. Bold of you, he thought. The Republic guards its borders like a jealous lover.

"Indeed," Aurelian said. "Membership is a delicate matter. Alderaan lies far from what the Republic comfortably calls its own. Expansion invites scrutiny."

His gaze shifted at the mention of Princess Liana. Ah yes. Ukatis. He remembered her composure, the way she listened more than she spoke. Promising.

"I observed the Princess on Ukatis," he said lightly. "She carries herself well. If she intends to spend more time on Naboo, I will be interested to see how she navigates our court."

He lifted his glass slightly. "Do mention to your Queen that if she ever needs anything, the King of Naboo will happily oblige. There is much monarchs can learn from one another."

Aurelian took a measured sip, then returned his attention to them.

"Tell me, Ambassador. Has Alderaan petitioned the Mandalorian Empire for aid as well? It may not be a government you wish to join, but their influence near the Core is… significant."

​

 

[Dominique Vexx]

"Yes. You do." The Chancellor stood a few feet behind Senator Eadu Yittreas wearing her white uniform and lilac glareshades. "Welcome, Senator. Have you come to give the Ambassadors your wishes, or to celebrate their enduring commitment to Alderaan?" A smile spread easily across her lips as she awaited his response.

It was good to see Gram Arranda and Liana Organa taking her up on pursuing membership officially rather than merely gauging interest. Other worlds had been inducted in an emergency or immediate basis, but each one of those had been a political boondoggle. One that was completely unnecessary considering Alderaan was well outside of the Republic's sphere of influence. Dominique hadn't spoke of establishing a security corridor as a mere contrivance to speak out of both sides of her mouth. Both the Empire then -- and the Covenant now -- and the Black Sun pose serious and present dangers to any ship that would try to pass from the recognized border of Republic space and their world.

On the other hand, were the Senate to agree to seriously consider and pursue Alderaan becoming a member, and the establishment of said corridor... Well, Dominique would be all too happy to welcome them as a member. Their planet was hardly a controversial one when it came to meeting the values of the High Republic.

Rémiel Durevant | Ayumi Pallopides | Cassian Abrantes | Eharl Sarn | Aurelian Veruna | Verity Stuyveris​

 

[Eadu Yittreas]

The High Chancellor Dominique Vexx 's presence was rarely a matter of socializing, a fact Eadu understood from the very beginning. She had been diligently working to solidify her power within the Republic, amassing allies and senators under her influence to project an image of a compassionate chancellor rather than a merciless corporate mogul from Denon, who would readily betray her own mother to fund yet another office expansion.

He couldn't hold her accountable for her actions, as that was simply her nature, and it became evident by the words leaving her lips. Alderaan, a shining gem of the former Galactic Alliance and the birthplace of its last Chancellor. Vexx would require a formidable security corridor to safeguard the sector against the Sith Covenant, and it must be established without the typical tensions of a divided Senate.

Securing the endorsement of the Senator from Alassa Major, the High Republic's leading opponent, would represent the pinnacle of political achievement. Forcing him to agree would be an even greater triumph. He finally turned to face her, his expression a mask of practiced neutrality.

"High Chancellor," he began, his voice adopting a firm tone that seemed to pull the warmth out of the immediate air. "Your presence is as radiant as the chandeliers. Though I suspect you didn't seek me out merely to discuss the vintage of the nectar." He offered a shallow bow, one that adhered to the letter of protocol while withholding any hint of genuine deference.

"As for your question," he continued, his eyes briefly flicking toward the Ambassadors, Arranda and Organa, "I am here neither to grant wishes nor to celebrate. I am here to provide a service that is often neglected in rooms filled with enduring commitments and shared values.'" He took a slow step forward, closing the gap just enough to ensure their conversation remained a private duel amidst the public gaiety.

"I am here to be the dissenting voice, Chancellor. Every beacon needs a shadow to define its edges, does it not? If the Senate only ever hears the harmonious chorus of Naboo and Alderaan singing of unity, it might forget that overexpansion is the death-keel of factions. As records have shown from the fall of the New Imperial Order, the Galactic Alliance, and the Hutt Space Consortium to name a few examples."

 

[Cassian Abrantes]

Liana Organa ​

Cassian met her measured look without hesitation, steady as ever. "Alderaan has a great history," he said with quiet certainty. "Honorable and true. I have no doubt it will answer as it always has, with resolve."

He offered her a small, respectful bow, the gesture precise and controlled. "And yes," he continued evenly, "Sibylla Abrantes is my sister."

There was no bravado in his admission simply fact. "Can I safely assume you have met her before?"

 

[Gram Arranda]

Gram smiled and nodded at Aurelian's apology, clearly taking no offense. His wife, however, had a small correction to make. "I am no Lady, Your Majesty," she said. "Please, call me Vera. Or Mrs. Arranda, if you prefer."

The conversation shifted to the topic of expansion. Gram listened. He understood the concerns against the Republic spreading past their current borders, but he also knew that it was an inevitability. Unless another major faction came along which held the same boons of the High Republic (which in this day and age, was as simple as not being run by an oppressive regime) they would expand. The motivations wouldn't matter.

"I will be sure to relay your message to Her Majesty," Gram replied. "Princess Liana won't be leaving Naboo anytime soon. My presence here is meant to be more of a... guiding force. For the time being, it is still her show."

"Tell me, Ambassador. Has Alderaan petitioned the Mandalorian Empire for aid as well? It may not be a government you wish to join, but their influence near the Core is… significant."

Ah, now that was the kind of hardball question he expected. Gram answered gracefully. "Queen Amani's past experience with Mandalorian groups has... discouraged relations with the Mandalorian Empire. Besides that, Alderaan will not join any faction proclaiming itself to be an empire."

Aurelian Veruna​

 

[Amani Serys]

Verity Stuyveris - Ayumi Pallopides - Open​

Speak of the Queen and she shall appear. Mere moments after Gram and Aurelian had their exchange regarding Amani's presence, she glided into the hall almost invisibly, if not for the commotion that could be heard trailing from outside when the entrance opened. Her navy dress and mantelet gave her a more understated appearance than one might expect of Alderaanian royalty, but she carried it with gravitas that matched her station.

Gram was right that she had not wanted to overshadow Liana (or Gram himself) tonight. In Amani's eyes this was their accomplishment, and they deserved the spotlight, which she feared might redirect if the Queen herself arrived. That is why she chose a fashionably late approach to the night's event. Unfortunately, it might reflect poorly on her confidence in this mission if she did not show up at all to endorse the vote herself.

Amani slipped through the crowd without guards, avoiding any halt in her movement lest the crowd recognize who she was before she could find a place to post up. She stopped herself next to Verity and Ayumi, "Senator Stuyveris?" She asked for confirmation. They had never met, but clearly she had done her homework, "Amani Serys-Organa. Liana tells me we have you to thank for getting this cession bill a proper sponsorship." She proffered a delicate hand, "You have my gratitude."

Not to leave the other woman in the dust, she then turned her gaze, "And Senator Pallopides. Your aide will no doubt bring some real results to our efforts back home. I thank you."