Populate The Wolves at the Door [THR Populate of Genarius]

[Aurelian Veruna]

Related Documents

Senate Bill No. 4417-WR

PGEM Defense Proposal​

The chamber lights dimmed, and the air thickened with expectation. The Assembly's massive domed ceiling shimmered, faintly projecting the Republic crest. Senators leaned forward, aides whispered into commlinks, and the echoes of hurried footsteps along the marble gallery faded away.

A single pod detached from the lower tier, gliding upward into the center of the chamber's gravity well. Spotlights found it at once, casting Aurelian in stark relief against the shadowed tiers of the Senate. He stood tall, his black coat flaring slightly in the repulsorlift draft. His hair was in disarray from travel, his ear still bloody, a massive hole in the armor on his abdomen. The dangerous smile was missing tonight. Instead, a look of sharpened purpose seemed to carry the weight of entire star systems on his shoulders.

A voice from the chamber's omnidirectional comms cut cleanly through the quiet. "Honored members of the Senate, please direct your attention to the consolidated emergency report detailing the ongoing crises currently threatening High Republic sovereignty, civilian safety, and regional stability. The following summaries are drawn from the most recent confirmed intelligence and situational updates."

Holographic data burst to life, each crisis listed in cold, impersonal text:

• Sepan 8 Incursion: Syndicate and Imperial agents are stoking rebellion, destabilizing Dimok leadership.
• Sarko VI Ambush: A High Republic convoy was annihilated, prisoners taken, and a proxy war confirmed.
• Wielu Crisis: A Sith-aligned Princess is present, threats have been made on Senators' lives, and the Bank of Nar Shaddaa is being run by the Black Sun.
• Civilians Trapped Behind Lines: Thousands are at risk of forced Imperial conscription.
• Military Unreadiness: Defense capacity is critically understrength, and clone mobilization has been proposed.

As the last line faded, Aurelian stepped forward. The pod's repulsorlift hummed beneath his boots. His voice, when it came, was hoarse. It wasn't weakness, but the strain of hours spent speaking, shouting, and the sheer effort of surviving.

"Honored Senators… I will not waste your time with pleasantries. You've read the words. I've lived them."

He let the pause hang, letting them see him as he was: blood dried at his collar, his coat scorched at one seam. He was a man who had walked out of chaos, and he was here to deliver a warning.

"On Wielu, we came to negotiate. The Black Sun came to profit. The Sith Empire came to kill. We left with neither peace nor security. All that remained was proof that every enemy we've ever faced is moving at once. While we stared them down on Wielu, reports came in of the Empire in the North carving up the Galactic Alliance. The Sith in the West, whispering from beyond the Blackwall. The Black Sun in the East, bleeding our worlds dry. And in the South: Mandalorian encampments rising without our consent or oversight. Four fronts. Four storms. And we…"

His eyes swept the Assembly, lingering on those he knew would resist him: old rivals, cautious moderates, the perpetually comfortable. "…are not ready." The last words struck like a gavel. His hand came up, gesturing to the floating report.

"If we delay, if we bicker over the definition of threat while our enemies coordinate theirs, we will not be debating policy in this chamber. We will instead be occupying seats in someone else's Senate. I am calling for what no one here wants to say aloud: a State of Emergency, and the full mobilization of our war capacity. Not tomorrow. Not when they reach our core worlds. Now."

He let the silence breathe just long enough to be uncomfortable. While noble and political figures of the Republic vied for different spots in their new Republic, the Jedi were already planning for such a situation. It was now time for Aurelian to prepare them for the same.

"You have my War Bill before you. You have the PGEM Defense Bid to make it happen. With them, we will have the fleets, the soldiers, the readiness to push back and win. Without them…"

His voice softened. It held no gentleness, but rather the kind of quiet that carried more danger than shouting.

"…then all you will have left to govern are the ruins they leave behind."

He stepped back, the pod drifting into place again, leaving the floor open. His gaze never wavered. If there was mischief in him tonight, it was buried under steel, but the knife behind his loyalty was still there, gleaming in the unspoken thought: Deny me, and I'll remember.

Referenced Threads:

Midnight Council

Velvet Knives


X | X
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[Sentapoth Findos]

Aurelian Veruna

​

The low hum of the repulsorlift engine was a familiar comfort to Senator Findos as his pod drifted through the vast Senate chamber. The air was thick with the lingering tension of Senator Aurelian Veruna speech, and the printed text of the Republic Defense Emergency Expansion and Protection Act (SB.4417-WR) sat on the Senator's console, its words a stark and urgent call to action.

Inside the pod, away from the prying eyes of the assembled body, Sentapoth was not alone. His two aides, a severe-looking Neimoidian named Grek and a human with a perpetually worried expression named Lyra, were already poring over the document, their fingers flying across datapad screens.

"His entire argument is built on a house of cards," Grek said, his voice a low hiss. "The preamble lists 'coordinated incursions by the Black Sun Syndicate, Sith-aligned operatives, and agents of the Galactic Empire.' But where is the proof of this coordination? The bill doesn't provide any, and the intelligence is flimsy at best. Veruna's entire justification for this emergency is based on a threat that's been inflated for political gain."

Lyra, ever the pragmatist, pointed to Article VIII: Funding and Budgetary Authorization. "And look at this, Senator. An emergency defense budget increase of 200%. It's a blank check. There are no stipulations for oversight beyond 'wartime audit procedures.' That's a loophole big enough to fly a star destroyer through. It's a direct handout to defense contractors, specifically Priddy General Engineering and Manufacturing (PGEM)."

Sentapoth's thin lips curled into a faint smile. "Precisely. He speaks of emergency, of crisis, but the real emergency is the lack of oversight. Veruna's bill is not a shield for the Republic; it's a funnel for credits, and he has been very selective in who will benefit."

"It's a gift to PGEM," Grek agreed, "and if we can't get a piece of that action, we can at least make sure that the Trade Federation is seen as the more responsible party. We can demand accountability, transparency. We can propose an entirely new commission to oversee all wartime expenditures."

"And let's not forget Article VI," Lyra added, tapping her datapad. "'Commission the immediate production of clone units through authorized facilities under secure Republic jurisdiction.' It's vague. Who authorizes these facilities? Who decides what 'secure' means? It leaves the door open for an entire black market of clone production, all under the guise of an emergency."

Sentapoth nodded slowly. He tapped a command on his console, and the pod began to glide forward once more, bringing him to the center of the chamber.

"Honored Senators," he began, "Before we authorize the expansion of our forces, before we allocate billions to a select few defense contractors, we must first address a more fundamental question: Do we want to risk legitimizing a known criminal syndicate by officially declaring war on them?" It was a rather fundamental question, yet one that held significant importance for the High Republic.

Did they genuinely wish for the galaxy to be aware that they had been defeated by a mere crime syndicate, revealing that their military and naval strength were so inadequate that they could be overcome by ordinary criminals lacking a centralized army.

 

[Arcann Pehnataur]

​

Log Entry – Arcann Pehnataur, Former Sovereign citizen of the Eternal Empire.
Citizen and Senator of Atzerri
Classification: Personal / Restricted Access
Location: High Assembly Hall, Theed, Naboo — High Republic Session
The High Assembly Hall is a cathedral to peace — vaulted ceilings, carved stone, banners that whisper with every shift of the air. It’s beautiful, and dangerous for that beauty. I’ve learned that comfort dulls instincts, and here they’ve been dulled for generations.

Aurelian arrived like a stormfront that no one here had checked the horizon for. Torn coat, blood on his collar, armor split at the midsection — not theatrics, but truth. His words weren’t proposals. They were warnings. Four fronts. Four storms. And we… not ready.

I watched the faces around me, some creased in feigned concern, others politely bored. These are people who believe in the invulnerability of their peace, as if Naboo’s culture and beauty could shield them from a warhead. They’ve forgotten — or never learned — what it means to be on the first line when the shooting starts.

I watched as the one who ran for Chancellor complain about PGEM... I'll call Thexann Pehnataur and see if he can help with GAL Ltd. if it's an issue. I don't think he is just looking for a money grab, but you never know.

I’m too old now to stand in armor on the front lines, to charge a trench or fly cover for a convoy. But I know war. I know the rhythm of it, the smell of it, the way it devours men and cities without a second thought. I’ve lived through raids that burned homes to ash before the alarms even stopped ringing. I’ve watched treaties fail in the time it takes for a destroyer to lock targeting solutions.

And that’s what makes this place so infuriating — they think they have time. That they can debate until the threat is “clearer.” The only thing that will make it clearer is an enemy ship blotting out the sun over Theed.

The War Bill will be argued into softness by those who think ugliness can be negotiated away. But war doesn’t ask your permission. It doesn’t wait for your comfort. It comes whether you’re ready or not — and I’ll be damned before I let Atzerri pay the price for Naboo’s illusions.

If the Republic moves, I’ll stand with it. If it stalls, I’ll move without it. I may not be the one holding a rifle anymore, but I can still aim the Republic’s guns in the right direction.

If that makes me dangerous… good.



Aurelian Veruna | Sentapoth Findos

 

[Aiden Porte]

Senate Chambers

Aiden stood near the doorway, as several other Jedi had. Facing the massive opening that was the senate chambers.

Thank the force he wasn't a Senator....

Yet why was he here, because this involved him. It involved all the Jedi of the order. If war was to be declared it would be both Jedi and Soldier that were leading the efforts. And given the state of things, issues with the Black Sun and their ilk. And further issues involving Imperial affairs near the core worlds. The hundreds of thousands of displace Republic civilians that were now at the mercy of the Empire. It was something he wouldn't be able to sit around and just let these things happen. There had already been talks amongst various enclaves of Jedi in regards to a joint task force of sorts.

To combat this blatant bigotry that their enemies were spewing.

Aiden wasn't one of the only one who was present today, there was a handful of other Jedi that were here in person due to the gravity of the situation. While the comfort of his own home would be nice, if things proceeded on their present course and without delay.

Their enemies would try to consume them all soon.

Aiden wasn't going to let that happen.

 

[Niki Priddy]

Tags: Aurelian Veruna | Sentapoth Findos | Arcann Pehnataur | Aiden Porte

Niki was in fact present for this particular meeting.

Her offer being announced along with a push for the senate to recognize a need to bolster their strength and properly prepare for a fight that was coming. Whether the gathered parties opened their eyes to the fact was an entirely different story.

She had the facilities to enable their progress forward. The vision for it even if she could manage to keep certain parties interested with investing.

But the back and forth of those potentially worried about runaway spending and those more concerned with protecting their peace would ultimately decide the course. She could only do so much to make the table more appealing to join.

It was both exhausting and exhilarating to have such a decision play out in front of her.

Potentially watching this fledgling sign away their own death. Or watching them agree to a new era of enforced peace through preventive measure.

The issue likely would stem from the other corporate entities that had interest with The High Republic. But. Those were simply untapped ventures to be made if Niki entice them with an offer for all to benefit from arrangements made. As much as she loathed the existence of Denon, it was a technological wonder that even she had to recognize and remain in awe of.

Even if that awe was sometimes equally paired with concern. Her brow rose as words filtered up to her spot. The first to speak after Aurelion being the trade federation gathering.

Well.

Trade Federation aligned party.

As was to be expected when the issue had turned toward deals and the cost of them. A point they were always willing to be scrutinize. Partly why she had placed such exorbitant numbers on her offer in the first place. If the Senate didn't attempt to provide a counter offer, who was she to argue.

But something else about them being the first to speak made her eye focus on them. The yellow glow of her gaze settling on each of them.

"Legitimize?" She picked at the skin around her finger nail with a sigh, keeping her voice low and just under her breath. "I would be more concered about the shapes of those hulls that did nothing while Republic forces were bitten to pieces."

The black box data had been clear. And only partially shared with Aurelion. Already picked through to keep potentially useful things hidden.

A smile crept across her face, hidden in the shadows of her own little pod as a guest speaker for the evening. Watching from up high as the gathering began their paces in true form. Watching them reveal in some form what they wanted out of the negotiations.

Her voice kept to that same murmur as she glanced about the gathered bodies.

"Show yourself, Vex. We already have one wanting a slice. I just need to hear what you want darling so we can make it happen." Niki spoke to no-one, the nail picking ending as leaned forward. Chin resting on her hand as she ended her search to let her eyes flick between the members as they spoke.

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Dominique looked after Sibylla hurried to where Aurelian was undergoing emergency treatment to ensure he could stand before the Senate, let alone address them. Only when she was finally alone did the Denonite allow herself the luxury of demanding medicine for the tension headache. It was even what had happened on Wielu a short while ago, but its aftermath. She'd gotten a defense fleet mustered as she'd threatened, but the amount of... discussion it had taken had taken its toll. It was upsetting to see just how paralyzed they could be. So similar to numerous Senates in fact. A quality people like her exploited, but to when it paralyzed them... it was quite perturbing. It was not something she had wanted to address single handedly.

Then again, there were certain elements she might count on back home that wouldn't need endlessly negotiated with, bullied, or threatened into doing what was necessary.

And yet, in good time, that wasn't the only thing that weighed on her shoulders. By the time Sibylla returned, Aurelian had already begun putting a plan in motion. A plan that involved Priddy General Engineering & Manufacturing. After her efforts to engage Aurelian, even support him -- well, mostly Sibylla, which seemed keen on supporting him -- and after so recently helping to save him to think that Rachne Industries or Denon in general weren't included even as a supplementary partner... Well, she kept the stiff upper lip and smiled regardless. Of course, the man would favor a Naboo company. Evidently she hadn't made as strong as an impression as she'd hoped by this point.

"Sibylla," Dominique manage with good cheer despite everything that had happened, "you look to be doing well." She stepped forward to check over the other woman and her attire. Needn't make her too clean, if there hadn't been time, but there was no need for her to appear disheveled either. Appropriately weathered would suffice for appearance, which Aurelian would take toward with leaving blood on his person. "It seems an emergency session's been called. We shouldn't be late," she added as though Dominique couldn't possibly already know why the summons had been issued.

Of course the woman, and even Sarn if he joined them, would be welcome to join Dominique in her pod. Better they were together if they needed to make a stand on recent events. Keep everyone's eyes fixated in as few places as possible.

Aurelian laid out his proposal, which Dominique had already read and made no show of pretending otherwise under similar emergency summons. Once Sentapoth set out his own question, she stepped forward to address them in turn. "The First Bank of Nar Shaddaa accepted the illegal imposition of a blockade on a High Republic world at best, and openly colluded with the Black Sun at worst. In either event, as a result of the savage attack against the Council of Wielu, the Corporate Sector Authorities are already in a defacto state of war with them. That was no negotiation on haggling over better terms or strong bargaining positions, Senators," Dominique gestured in the direction of Sibylla and Aurelian, "we were there when the blockade sought to surround the planet. When they severed communications. When they fired the first shot that nearly led to the assassination of every member of the delegation -- including myself."

"I made a statement on Wielu that I intend to hold no matter what decision is reached here. Wielu is Denon's neighbor. They are our partner. Denon will protect them if no one else will; but know this, the Republic fleet did not arrive soon enough to forestall this travesty. If its optics that have you concerned, know that the galaxy will learn in good time how unprepared this body is to respond to an incursion; and that our actions, here and now, will color their impression of our capability of any response whatsoever." Dominique paused as she swept the chamber with her eyes. "Consider what the ramifications are for each of your worlds should any of these well-armed and motivated parties set their eyes on you."

"Denon will build up its own fleet. If the Republic chooses to dither, delay, or deny efforts to bolster its own response capabilities, or doesn't take advantage of our experienced builders and numerous shipyards, Denon at least will be ready to defend its partners. I hope this Republic is willing to stand up for itself, because I, for one, invested in it believing it a body capable of not only empowering economic development, but ensuring it. By force when necessary."

"To that end," Dominique's fingers tapped on a console, "I propose if Bill 4417-WR were adopted as-is that up to twenty percent of the newly allocated funds be made available immediately so construction can begin in ernest. A request for purchase can be issued to the remaining allocated budget that other companies can bid for and be weighed by the end of the month." An amendment to that effect was submitted for consideration inclusion or not. Others could propose what they will. Dominique had no interest in denying Aurelian his favoritism, but a one hundred percent allocation of the defense budget to a single contractor with no competition at all was simply not acceptable. For that matter she'd thought to make it ten percent, but twenty should forestall hand-wringing about spinning of factories or fears of running out of funds in a single month. They were building a fleet, after all, not a Super Star Destroyer.

Aurelian Veruna | Sibylla Abrantes | Sentapoth Findos | Arcann Pehnataur | Aiden Porte | Niki Priddy​

 

[Sentapoth Findos]

Aurelian Veruna Dominique Vexx Arcann Pehnataur

​

Sentapoth appeared to have been outmaneuvered by Senator Dominique Vexx of Denon, which was not surprising considering his rather feeble emphasis on legitimizing a Crime Syndicate rather than focusing on defense expansion and the consequent strain it would impose on the High Republic's economy.

Affa was certainly not a prosperous system, and he was unwilling to permit the High Assembly to impose additional taxes on his sector, as the Trade Federation required a duty-free port for its operations. He pressed the button on his pod as it moved forward, his expression souring.

While he acknowledged that the woman was bold, he recognized that her fervor was a weakness he could exploit, a vulnerability that could be transformed into a political advantage. He intended not merely to counter her but to dismantle her argument and utilize the fragments to construct his own sphere of influence.

"Senator Vexx," Sentapoth commenced, his voice cool and measured, cutting through the lingering tension. "You speak of audacity and the necessity for an immediate response. You mention Denon's readiness to safeguard its partners. This is indeed a commendable sentiment. However, let us not confuse a unilateral action with a cohesive strategy. Your suggested amendment, while seemingly addressing the issue of corporate exclusivity, merely institutionalizes a different form of favoritism."

He paused, allowing the significance of his words to resonate. "You propose an immediate allocation of twenty percent of the budget to commence construction earnestly, while postponing the remaining eighty percent for a future bidding process. Essentially, this constitutes a short-term contract with long-term ramifications. It provides an immediate, substantial financial boost to a select few, accompanied by a promise of future competition that may never come to fruition under the pretext of this declared emergency. It is not an open market; rather, it is a first-mover advantage, a de facto grant of power to those who are already best positioned to seize it."

Sentapoth's gaze shifted to the rear of the chamber, where he observed the individual of the hour herself, Niki Priddy , She was eagerly observing the debate as it progressed, undoubtedly with a personal stake in the issue. It appeared that Senator Veruna was her means to achieve great wealth, yet the Neimoidian would refuse her that opportunity.

"You also speak of the Republic's need for a strong response, a need to demonstrate its capability. Yet, your proposal would splinter our resources, empowering a patchwork of private fleets rather than a unified Republic military. This bill is about an Emergency Military Expansion, not a corporate stimulus. By fragmenting our defense capacity, we risk not only diluting our strength but also creating a dangerous precedent where individual sectors are authorized to act with or without the Republic's mandate."

 

[Niki Priddy]

Tags: Aurelian Veruna | Sentapoth Findos | Arcann Pehnataur | Aiden Porte | Dominique Vexx

Her request had been met with a speed she had not expected.

Aurelian had shown an alarming amount of favor to her. Something she had not expected given the hints of ties Representative Abrantes had at her disposal and especially with the proximity she had to Aurel. Perhaps because of her speedy delivery? An act made on the feelings of one man could tie a noose for many. Even the one seeking to benefit from those hasty actions. Doubting she would get a chance to capitalize on the moment.

Processing everything before picking apart the potential worries. Eyes sharply narrowed when Denon was mentioned in particular.

When the Representative Vexx finished, followed again by Representative Findos, Niki stood to speak and held up four fingers.

"Honored Senators, I deal in inputs, outputs, and the certainty of numbers." Her gaze falling to Sentapoth before she began.

"First-To the question of 'legitimacy.' Whether we call them a syndicate, a cartel, or a proto-state is irrelevant if they control ships, credits, ports, the capacity, and ultimately the willingness to shoot at our delegations. Legitimacy is a political term. Capability is a metric. We do not legitimize them by naming them. We neutralize their capacity to act. That requires resources, not rhetoric." Niki dropped a finger after the point was made and let her eyes wander to Dominque.

"Second. To responsibility and optics. Representative Vexx is correct about Wielu; The response was too slow. Optics matter as any delay costs lives and invites regional rearmament. If Denon chooses to accelerate its own fleet, that is a predictable market reaction to policy risk." Another finger fell as she breathed deep to continue on.

"That brings me to Bill 4417-WR and the amendment on the floor. I will support an amendment that releases an immediate allotment of funds in the amount of twenty percent. Provided the disbursement follows verifiable conditions. My company, Priddy General Engineering & Manufacturing, will accept an allocation equal to that twenty percent under the following constraints." Niki was tying her own hands on the matter with adding provisions to how her company would operate. But that also meant that other companies would likely have to bend to these measures as well. Taking the first bow was nothing if it meant securing the future for not only herself, but the hope of The High Republic functioning.

"Phased disbursement tied to measurable milestones. No lump-sum handoffs. Funds to be released only after independent verification of the following conditions. Laying of hulls. Verification of subsystem assembly, delivery, and installations. Operational test runs witnessed by a neutral audit team. With all milestone targets and verification protocols to be published and immutable." Niki has still not dropped another finger as she continued.

The glow of her augmented eyes traced each face into memory within nano-seconds of her words. Time passing immeasurably slow for her despite what the others in the room were experiencing. Prolonged use of her augmentation meant higher calorie requirements. Meant headaches when that wasn't met. Heightened agitation for continued operation.

If she didn't speak now while she was capable, she wouldn't have the capacity of remaining calm or reasonable enough to make these requirements clear.

"Trusts and audit. The proposed twenty percent goes into a Trust. Draws require two signatures from a Republic procurement officer plus a third-party auditor selected by the proposed oversight panel. With real-time build telemetry, logged serial numbers, part tracking, manufacturing timestamps, all to be shared under secure channels." She did not pause for more than a breath.

"Cooperative manufacturing and shared subcontracts. Priddy General Engineering and Manufacturing will not remain an island. We will sub-contract a defined percentage of work to Denon shipyards if they so agree, along with any others that are willing to work with us. We will open specific lines for smaller firms to bid on niche systems. This is a means to accelerate output, create political buy-in for Denon, Naboo, along with whomsoever wishes, and to avoid the political cost of single-supplier dependency that may be part of what the chamber fears." Niki offered without hesitation.

"Third. The fleet failures. My firm is not above reproach, if it was our equipment or products that failed in any capacity, we will expose the failure, correct it, and accept contractual penalty clauses if repeat defects occur with the immediate replacement or cooperative design to replace the equipment in it's entirety. I expect any company to do much the same if their equipment fails or continues to fail. This is not charity. It is logistics and reliability." Her gaze swept across the gathered senators as her head began to ache. Another finger finally falling.

Faces. So many expressions. Enraptured or disgusted with her outline. Discussing amongst themselves or waiting to argue.

"Finally, process. We should not award 100% to any single bidder. I will not accept 100%. Representative Vexx's suggestion of an immediate 20% is sensible to allow for immediate production to begin should other parties act on the knowledge of a lacking High Republic Fleet to protect their systems. The remainder should be competed and scored on verifiable output, lead times, cost per hull, and acceptable failure rates. I will publicly accept the 20% allotment for Priddy General Engineering and Manufacturing if the chamber adopts the escrow, verification, and subcontracting provisions I have outlined. And if Denon yards are given defined roles in production, if they should agree. That alignment buys the Republic speed, gives Denon tangible reasons to cooperate rather than go their own way, and creates redundancy the fleet will need if war becomes infrastructural rather than rhetorical." The final finger on her hand dropping as her hands wrapped together behind her back.

"Numbers, not gestures. With clearly define deliverables, defined penalties, and defined verification for all participating in this effort. I suggest these additional amendments be added for the security and peace of mind of the High Republic's interest." She never smiled, never frowned. Simply informed of the stipulations that she was willing to take on.

"I do not trust easily. I do not enjoy politics especially. If you want my company’s output capability, my expertise running industrial scale defense production, give me the 20% with the clauses I described, and we will make the first hulls operational within the quarter. If you prefer theater and absolutes, expect Denon along with many others to buy its own fleet and watch the Republic pay a premium for delay." She ceded the floor and returned to her seat.

Her eyes never stopped scanning each face. Watching. Measuring.

 

[Dominique Vexx]

"Thank you, Senator Sentapoth Findos , but you confuse a self-defense fleet for a Republic-wide armed forces. Unless you are proposing legislation where individual worlds or organizations are not allowed to own such things. The Corporate Sector Authorities maintains its own security for its own members. Not a credit of which is financed by this body, lamentable. It would be prudent, however, for the long-term stability of this collective body that the Republic provide its own forces; or contracts to someone capable of manufacturing and staffing such in their stead." Dominique smiled over at the Nemoidian.

"As for Naboo prioritizing its own under these circumstances, believe me, Senator, we are of a mind. This body is welcome to propose an amendment to separate out Priddy General. As someone advocating the critical nature of reinforcing the Republic, however, it would be hypocritical of me to personally lead that effort." Though she certainly wouldn't mind if Findos decided to press the matter as he seemed keen on acquiring influence over matters.

Then there was Niki Priddy herself. Self imposed restrictions in an effort to downplay concerns and appear reasonable. How Denonite of her. "Most generous of you, Miss Priddy. Though while I appreciate the strictness of your proposal, I believe an initial few percentage can be allotted to any company with a successful bid to be decided later. Enough for initial material and personnel acquisition, which may be delayed if financial backing is not promptly available. After that, careful scrutiny of financial distribution in alignment with established metrics is more than welcome." Not at all desired, of course, by almost any Director, but Denon wasn't unaccustomed to working with even stringent or strict customers.

"As for one hundred percent of the budget, I couldn't agree more. Denon and the Corporate Sector Authority partners have countless shipyards, but diversity minimizes bottlenecks. That said, let's not bore Senators with the details. We could go on about supply chain complexities for hours."

"Some of these details could certainly be added as an amendment, but some should be reserved for the oversight committee. Speaking of which," Dominique smiled and gave Niki a slight nod, "any planet with a majority stake in any contracted entity would recuse theirself from any vote regarding the satisfaction of the products or questions regarding financial distribution to ensure the body remains impartial. Should a quorum not be possible, we'll devise process for capable alternative voting members to stand in." Findos and Niki hadn't come out and said it, but it was obvious they were or might try to angle on Denon's history. She'd join them in taking the first step sooner than later so they didn't get the upper hand.

Aurelian Veruna | Sibylla Abrantes | Sentapoth Findos | Niki Priddy | Arcann Pehnataur | Aiden Porte​

 

[Xazzex Xivar]

​

"If you are all finished discussing who gets the largest slice of the pie first," a sharp, yet aloof feminine voice intruded, "perhaps we can get back to the topic at hand." Xazzex Xivar stood at the fore of her pod with customary wine glass in hand. "After you generously occupied space surrounding our system, I believe we came to certain agreements -- between the Republic and Falleen -- which include trivial matters such as interstellar security. So I won't bother downplaying its importance. If you wish to spend money to build more ships and bases in your territory then by all means. Our suppliers can even contribute for reasonable fees."

"However," Xazzex set her glass down, "let us not merrily skip over Article Five." Sentaphos saw sense in the haste directed on that front. "A Declaration of War should hardly take a backseat to corporate haggling. In fact, this entire session is predicated on the very notion there is a reason to go to war. That war is inevitable. The latter very well could be true, but again, let us not skip ahead. Perhaps Naboo would care to elaborate on the role the Black Sun played at Wielu? I presume there is evidence of their presence? Some intelligence perhaps? An admission of guilt?"

Long as the Republic didn't try to squeeze Falleen for credits or forcibly relocate aliens to their world, they were free to waste money however they wished. The Black Sun, however, was another matter. A personal matter. One of their own ran it and Xazzex rather liked the ambitious Prince and his pursuits. So if she could perhaps weaken the Republic's zealotry in their direction at least that would be sufficient.

Aurelian Veruna | Sibylla Abrantes | Dominique Vexx | Sentapoth Findos | Niki Priddy | Arcann Pehnataur | Aiden Porte​

 

[Arcann Pehnataur]

​

Log Entry – Arcann Pehnataur, Former Sovereign citizen of the Eternal Empire.
Citizen and Senator of Atzerri
High Republic
Entry Date: Galactic Standard 1835

I’ve sat in enough councils, war rooms, and crisis tables to know that debate can save lives. But what I saw today wasn’t debate. It was posturing.

For nearly an hour I listened to Senators, representatives, and guests spar over percentages, contracts, and procurement clauses as if the Republic were simply another merchant house. They spoke of “legitimacy,” “first-mover advantage,” and “market share” with more energy than they’ve shown for the lives already lost. I expected negotiation — I did not expect the floor of the High Assembly Hall to feel like a marketplace.

This is not a matter of who sells the best rifle. This is a matter of whether the people we represent will live long enough to ever need one.

If these were the Oversight Committee’s chambers or a procurement subpanel, I would understand this level of detail and scrutiny over suppliers. There is a time and place for that work. But here, in open session, with enemies already moving on multiple fronts, the message to our people should be clear: we are here to protect them. And yet, today’s exchanges risk sending the opposite signal — that their safety is secondary to our own political comfort.

Even Priddy General Engineering, the company so many seem eager to cut down, has said openly they do not want the entire contract. When a primary bidder shows willingness to share the work, what exactly is the problem? Delay and distrust will not build a single ship, will not train a single crew, will not stop the next “Coruscant” before it happens.

I am not naïve. I know war contracts attract profit-seekers like blood draws predators. I also know that soldiers don’t care whose factory made their armor when they’re standing on a line that’s collapsing. I am not here to sell anyone a product. I am here to make sure the Republic still exists long enough to need those products.

I am too old now to wear the uniform and charge the front, but I have been there. I have walked cities after they’ve fallen, looked into the eyes of civilians who survived only to ask me why we weren’t ready. That question stays with you. It should stay with every one of us here.

If this chamber wants to be a Senate that argues like a marketplace while the enemy arms itself, then I don’t belong here. But if it wants to be the High Assembly of a Republic worth defending, then the time for market games is over. We will still have our oversight, our audits, our safeguards. But first, we must have a fleet, a plan, and the will to use them.

The people outside these walls do not care about our procurement language. They care about whether they will see tomorrow. That is the conversation we must be having. The rest can wait.



-Until Next time
Arcann Pehnataur
Senator of Atzerri

(The Atzerri delegation pod glided forward, stopping in the central ring. Arcann rose slowly, resting both hands on the console, his gaze swept the tiers above him before he spoke.)

Honored Senators, Representatives, and guests —

I have listened, with patience, to the arguments made here today. Some of them I expected — oversight, audits, distribution of contracts. That is the work of governance. But much of what I have heard has sounded less like the defense of a Republic, and more like a bidding floor.

This is not a matter of who sells the best rifle.
This is a matter of whether the people we represent will live long enough to need one.

If this were the chamber of the Oversight Committee or a procurement subpanel, I would understand the level of scrutiny over suppliers and percentages. But here, now, in this Hall — with our enemies already moving against us — the message to our people should be singular and clear: we are here to protect them.

Yet, today’s exchanges risk sending another message entirely — that their safety is secondary to our political comfort.

Even Priddy General Engineering, whose name has been repeated in this debate more than the names of our threatened worlds, has said openly they do not seek the entire contract. When a primary bidder volunteers to share the work, what exactly is the problem? Do we want another Coruscant? Another world falling while we argue about percentages?

I am not here to sell you anything. I am not here to shield one company or attack another. I am here because I have seen what happens when we are not ready. I have walked the ruins of cities we failed to protect. I have looked into the eyes of survivors and heard the same question: Where were you?

That question stays with you. It should stay with every one of us here.

If this Assembly wants to be remembered as the body that debated itself into irrelevance while the galaxy burned, then so be it — but do not expect me to join you in that. If, however, you want to be remembered as the Assembly that acted — decisively, with unity — to defend the Republic, and perhaps the galaxy itself, then the time for market games is over.

We will still have oversight. We will still have audits. We will still hold contractors accountable. But first, we must have a fleet, a plan, and the will to use them.

Because the people outside these walls — on Naboo, on Atzerri, Denon, on every world represented here — do not care about procurement language. They care about whether they will see tomorrow.

That is the conversation we should be having. Everything else can wait.

(Arcann let the silence hang, his gaze sweeping the chamber once more before he sits.)



Aurelian Veruna | Sentapoth Findos | Niki Priddy | Dominique Vexx | Xazzex Xivar

 

[Elara Veyran]

"First Times."

[ Arcann Pehnataur ][ Aurelian Veruna ][ Sentapoth Findos ][ Niki Priddy ][ Dominique Vexx ][ Xazzex Xivar ]
​

The pod eased forward and rose. Elara Veyran stood with her hands lightly on the rail, letting the chamber see that she wasn't here to shout anyone down.

"Honored Senators. Representatives. I am Elara Veyran of Vandelhelm."

"This is my first time addressing this body, so I will be brief and plain. Vandelhelm sits on the border with the Sith Order. For us, this isn't theory. My people go to work beside blast doors. Our schools practice evacuation drills as often as fire drills. The fear we live with is simple: that one bad decision made far from our sky will invite a punishment we do not survive. I can relate to Senator Pehnataur, the market games can come after we discuss the primary issues at play."

"I support readiness. I support shields, escorts, and the means to bring our citizens home alive. But there is one place in this bill where a single phrase could make our enemies many and our mornings few."

She tilted the bill's holoprojection toward the chamber.

"Article V declares war not only on syndicates and Sith-aligned actors, but on 'agents of the Galactic Empire' and 'Imperial proxies.' I ask you to strike any mention of the Galactic Empire from this act."

"Why? Because today the Empire is fighting the Galactic Alliance. Whether we like it or not, that fight holds their attention. If we name the Empire in our war bill, we risk turning a two-front disaster into a three-front catastrophe. We risk pushing them to treat the High Republic as a belligerent, not a neighbor. We give them a reason to look up from their war and look at us."

"My people pay for that first."

Elara let the silence breathe, then continued, steady.

"This is not softness toward anyone who threatens our worlds. It is sequencing. We can deter where we must and de-escalate where we can. The words we pass here decide whether we fight alone or with space to breathe."

"So I propose two simple steps:"

"First, amend SB.4417-WR to remove every reference to 'agents of the Galactic Empire' or 'Imperial proxies.' Where necessary, replace them with neutral language—'foreign proxies acting on behalf of designated hostile organizations'—so we still have teeth against saboteurs without naming the Empire as a target."

"Second, authorize immediate diplomatic missions—one to the Galactic Empire, one to the Galactic Alliance—to seek deconfliction, humanitarian corridors, and a path toward ending their war. Not grand pronouncements. Practical outcomes: non-aggression understandings along our borders, advance notice and hotlines to avoid incidents, safe passage for evacuations, and prisoner exchanges where applicable. If either party declines, the record will show we tried; if they accept, our citizens live longer."

She looked around the ring of faces—some skeptical, some worn, many simply tired.

"On Vandelhelm, we do not confuse calm words with weakness. We call it buying time for the ships to arrive and the shields to hold. Strike the Empire from this bill, send envoys to both sides of their war, and keep our focus where it must be: stopping Black Sun criminals and Sith killers from crossing our line."

"I am not asking you to lower your guard. I am asking you to keep us from opening another door in a burning house."

"If we do this, I will vote for readiness with a clear conscience. I will speak at home and say: the Republic is arming, the Republic is prudent, and the Republic has not carelessly invited a wider war to our doorstep. That is what our people need to hear if they are to sleep without the word 'genocide' in their throats."

"Thank you."

She inclined her head—no theatrics, no flourish—and let the pod settle back, her ask as narrow as a scalpel and, she hoped, just as precise.

​

 

[Sentapoth Findos]

Aurelian Veruna Dominique Vexx Arcann Pehnataur Elara Veyran

​

Sentapoth listened attentively as others voiced their opinions, from Dominique Vexx to Niki Priddy , Xazzex Xivar along with the fervent appeals from Senators Arcann Pehnataur and Elara Veyran , both of whom endeavored to persuade the chamber of their respective viewpoints on the issue.

"I have indeed listened to the words of my colleagues, and I see a common thread woven through their arguments. They all speak of a need for action of a threat so grave that it requires us to set aside our differences and the needs of our individual planets. Yet in the same breath they seek to insert their own interests into the very fabric of this act." It was somewhat ironic to see him voicing opposition to personal interests, given that the primary reason for his election was to implement the Federation's policies and ultimately guide the Republic as its Chancellor.

"Senator Vexx's amendment while dressed as compromise would still confer a decisive advantage to those already positioned to act, rendering the so-called competition an afterthought once initial funds are spent. Miss Priddy's terms, however thorough, remain tailored to her company's model, effectively setting the pace and standards for all others to follow, regardless of their capacity to meet them." He aimed to combine both Denon and Priddy General Manufacturing in a single statement to create the impression that they were conspiring against the interests of the Republic.

"Senator Pehnataur is correct that this is not an Oversight Committee session, yet precisely for that reason the bill must be constructed to prevent manipulation after passage. Representative Xazzex's reminder on Article Five is also well-taken; the declaration of war should not be buried beneath the bill's more marketable portions, lest it draw in enemies we do not yet face. And as for Senator Veyran's call to remove all reference to the Empire. I respect the instinct to avoid escalation, but let us not pretend they are anything less than a hostile power. Striking their name will not make them cease to exist, nor diminish the risk they present. "

He drew himself upright, his voice sharpening. "To avoid favoritism, operational bottlenecks, and unnecessary provocation, this bill should establish an Emergency Procurement Commission drawn from neutral systems and answerable to the High Assembly to solicit and award all contracts, distribute initial funds in controlled increments, verify progress through Republic-appointed inspectors, and reassign work when obligations are unmet."

 

[Ravion Corvalis]

​

Ravion Corvalis had to admit, if politics was theater, then the Senate Chamber was its most lavishly funded stage. The lighting cues were always impeccable, the props expensive, and tonight’s lead actor, the young sire of House Veruna; Aurelian, had arrived in costume straight from whatever war-torn back alley he’d been dragged through. Scorched robes? Check. Blood at the ear? Check. Armor with a gaping wound? Ah, the final beautiful flourish; raw authenticity or carefully selected damage, who could say?

He listened as the speech unfurled: four fronts, four storms, doom in every direction. It was the sort of thing that, in his art appraisal days, he might have described as boldly overstated with an undercurrent of desperation. A collector’s piece for those who liked their tragedies loud.

Around the chamber, senators leaned forward, their faces arranged into masks of concern so practiced they could be sold in bulk. Ravion almost chuckled at the thought: The Senate Collection: genuine Core World anxiety, perfect for display in your family gallery.

Aurelian struck the “not ready” line like it was meant to crack marble. Ravion imagined some of the elder statesmen thinking: Well, perhaps not ready, but let’s not be gauche about it. No doubt they’d take this thunderous call to arms and file it neatly in the “For Further Review” drawer, right next to every other inconvenient truth that might require them to move faster than a committee schedule allowed.

He noted the telltale cues, the tightening jaw of a trade bloc delegate, the sudden interest in datapads from those who didn’t dare meet the speaker’s eye. He’d seen the same expressions at high-end art auctions when a piece went well beyond its pre-sale estimate; no one wanted to admit they’d lost control of the room.

When Aurelian finally withdrew, leaving the chamber taut with manufactured gravitas, Ravion remained still. He wasn’t here to applaud or object, just to watch. Candidates could afford to be above the fray, and he intended to enjoy that freedom while it lasted. Before all the cards fell into place and he had to join them there in the circle having their backsides smacked by a kid.

From here, the whole thing looked less like governance and had started to fall more into a bidding war, with truth as the lot up for sale. Each and every single corporate interest within this room had perked it’s ears at Aurelian’s words and now they were starting to fight over the juicy carcass he had placed unceremoniously in the middle of the room. Ravion however, for now, was content to be the man at the back of the room, glass in hand, quietly deciding whether it was time to put the cards he had been dealt into motion.

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

X | X​

His gaze swept the tiers slowly, lingering on Arcann's battle-hardened presence. He paused on Elara, earnest, but with the fear of a border world visible in her eyes. Then on Sentapoth, whose neutrality seemed as carefully presented as a merchant's finest wares. His eyes moved to Vexx and Priddy, whose polite commercial language now hinted at conflict, and finally, briefly, to Xazzex, who had said little, but, as always, was watching everything.

"Honored Senators, Representatives." He inclined his head. A faint, almost imperceptible smile touched the corner of his mouth. It wasn't a sign of warmth, but the kind of acknowledgment a duelist gives an opponent before the first move.

"I have heard much this day. We've talked of markets, morality, and the very maps defining our borders. We've discussed contracts, commissions, and clauses fine enough to weave into a dress coat. And yes, we've talked of war, though more often as an abstract concept than as the living, breathing thing it truly is."

He gestured toward Arcann's pod. "Senator Pehnataur is correct in one thing above all: this isn't a procurement subpanel. This is the Assembly. This is the hall where we declare what we will be, not just what we will buy. Will we be the Republic that meets its enemies with readiness, or the one that writes meticulous excuses in the ruins of its worlds?"

"I have no objection to oversight; Shiraya knows, without it, half our fleets would fly backward. But when we let the argument over the shape of the scabbard delay the forging of the sword, we do our people no favors."

His eyes shifted to Elara. His tone changed, slightly softer, still carrying the weight of steel under silk. "Senator Veyran, I hear the fear in your words. I respect it."

"But fear must be weighed against the truth: the Galactic Empire isn't just a 'neighbor.' It's an authoritarian regime that has armed rebellion against us at Sepan 8 and swallows systems whole when the moment suits. Yes, they are presently engaged with the Galactic Alliance. But what are we, then? Their next course when the first is finished? Do we truly believe that omitting their name from our bill will make them forget ours?"

He tapped the console, and the relevant text from the Constitution materialized in the air between them, each clause illuminated in turn. "The Charter is clear. We may act: in self-defense, in defense of our members, against regimes that violate our unity, in opposition to genocide and enslavement, and yes, against governments that impose Sith tyranny. The Empire stands guilty on more than one count."

"Naming them doesn't create the threat; it acknowledges it. And preparing for the war they will bring isn't provocation; it's survival."

He let the projection fade, his voice sharpening. "If we remove their name, we tell our citizens we will wait until the first Imperial Star Destroyer crosses the border before we are permitted to act. We tell our enemies the Assembly is hesitant, that we may be divided, and that our readiness is conditional on their convenience."

His focus turned toward Sentapoth now, a dangerous smile flickering just long enough to be noticed. "Senator Findos, your caution is predictable. A commission, neutral inspectors, controlled increments. It all sounds so civilized. But the crises before us are not civilized."

"The Sith don't issue progress reports. The Black Sun doesn't wait for audits. And the Empire won't resubmit its invasion. I don't object to accountability, but let's not build a bureaucracy so perfectly balanced it cannot run to the sound of the guns."

Finally, he addressed the commercial undertones in the debate, his voice settling into something colder. "To Senators Vexx and Priddy, your enterprises may cloak themselves in patriotism, and perhaps some of it is sincere. I accept that you may both contribute to the defense we need."

"But if any person in this hall believes the Republic's survival is a prize to be bid upon until the last credit is spent, I invite you to explain that philosophy to the widows of Sarko VI. Or to the children hiding on Sepan 8."

"We can have our market competition. We can even have our audits. But first, we will have a fleet that can fight on four fronts and win."

He stepped forward, leaning slightly on the console, his voice dropping into the register that made people lean in despite themselves. "The wolves at our gates will not wait for our comfort. In the North, the Empire watches for weakness. In the West, the Sith breathe through the cracks in the Blackwall. In the East, the Black Sun takes our people. In the South, Mandalorians plant banners without invitation."

"I call again for a State of Emergency, and for this Assembly to pass the War Bill as written, with the Empire named. Anything less is a gamble with our citizens' lives, and I, for one, won't leave their safety to the turn of a dice."

The dangerous smile returned now, faint but unmistakable. "Debate if you must. Amend if you dare. But understand, history will record what we did here. And it will remember who stood ready, and who stood in the way."

With that, Aurelian let the pod drift back into formation, the hum of its repulsor lift fading into the tense silence he left behind.

Dominique Vexx | Sentapoth Findos | Xazzex Xivar | Arcann Pehnataur | Elara Veyran | Niki Priddy | Ravion Corvalis | Aiden Porte​

 

[Dominic Praxon]

The observation tier was meant for quiet men and their quiet doubts.

Dominic kept his hands folded on the rail and watched the room move in rehearsed cries and jabs. Business ventures seemed dressed as courage. Courage was being commodified. Below, the arguments rose and fell like tide against stone. He did not flinch. He simply counted the heartbeats from where fear became policy.

There was a soft step beside him. His aide, Lysa, held a datapad against her chest like a shield.

"They'll ask you where you stand," she murmured, not looking at him. "Today or tomorrow. The press. Vexx's people. Even House Veruna's entourage, if they're feeling generous."

Dominic’s gaze never left the chamber. "Then we make them hear the answer they expect, without giving them the one they want."

"Meaning?"

"Meaning we speak to the public’s need, not Aurelian’s appetite."

Lysa exhaled through her nose, the hint of a smile. "Talking points, then. Three pillars?"

"Security. Prudence. Unity," he said, as if reciting a prayer he'd learned as a boy. "In that order, always."

She brought the datapad up. The screen caught the ambient light. "Draft them with me."

Dominic tilted his head, and Lysa typed as he spoke in a measured tone. "Naboo will be defended. The citizenry deserve safety. They have been so much...drop mentions of the Cataclysm, that plays well. Mention business. Trade. Something about the borders. Readiness is not an option...what do you think about that for a soundbite?"

Lysa simply nodded.

"Some would say that the best defence is a good offence...but peace is always the way. Naboo's history and cultural references play well...though we shouldn't focus on it too much. I sense the Republic is expanding beyond the Naboo-centric rhetoric. Keep it light. Enough to grab the ears and minds of the voters, but not so much that it paints me as one walking into the Senate to keep the Republic Nabooian."

Lysa worked to keep up with the thoughts as they flowed.

"Emergencies are used to create Empires not sustain Republics. Let us not rush into things...no...don't frame Aurelian as rushing...ah...the Republic must maintain control, not be reactive...that is better. Prudence does not write a blank check...damn...use that one. Maybe put that line out of our media affiliates, get them saying something similar so that when I say it, they can get their reactions out to confirming it."

Lysa noted the normal holonews commentators to feed the information too.

"The Republic is not for sale to the first war that comes along...no...too wordy...damn...there is something there. Let me workshop it and get back to you."

Lysa glanced up. "Press will push ‘Do you back Veruna’s war bill?’"

"We pivot on scope," he replied. "I back protecting people. Not into war-profiteering."

"Too sharp?"

"Clip it if we need donors," he allowed.

"And if they press on naming the Empire?"

Dominic’s mouth flattened. "We don’t teach the rancor our scent."

"Anything else?"

"No...no...just let me watch this unfold. Get that interview for HNN lined up. I want to get my face in front of this. Aurelian doesn't need the glow..."

 

[Miraya Thaine]

Tags: Aurelian Veruna , Dominique Vexx , Arcann Pehnataur

The newly elected Senator inhaled slowly, anxiety filling her as she prepared to command her pod to rise. She was a newcomer here, one from an agriworld that few could name on a map. On her homeworld she was a big fish, here she was a guppy swimming amongst sharks. Yet, it was better to approach the situation with head held high than to cower in fear. She'd never cowered before, and today was not the time to start.

Overall, she agreed with the sentiment that The Republic stood at a disadvantage. Four storms, and only a shelter made of sticks to be found. That was where her agreement ended however, she was worried about her people first. Was it callous? Perhaps, but it was also what she was voted in to do. That's why her constituents trusted her.

With all of that in mind, she pressed the button to lift up the pod to join the speaking senators. It was now or never.

"I won't mince words, I have a low tolerance for such things. So I'll get right to the point. I am in agreement with my fellow senator from the west Elara Veyran , focusing entirely on the eastern aggressors would do little more than open us up to an invasion with The Sith Order. My charge is to keep that Black Wall from pushing any closer to our borders. But, I'm not going to step in line with a debate over percentages and financing. I am here to show my support for a greater Republic Army."

She spoke with a fire and vigor that belied the relative youth and inexperience. Her anxiety was hidden far underneath the passion that got her chosen in the first place. If she had to make a deal with Niki Priddy by herself, she would. The limited vaults of Karlinus would be opened wide for PGEM an its business partners.

"To that end, I have come before you not to chase my tail, but to bite down on our enemies. I support giving the contract over to Niki's company, and commissioning as many ships and clones as we need to keep our people safe. This is not to diminish the concerns of Sentapoth Findos 's concerns however, monopolies are dangerous. But I ask you, where are these other corporations? How many of these other contractors have offered to actually put their asses in the fire to make sure our Republic can defend itself?! None that I can see. To that end, Karlinus and its economic sector offer full support for the bill to expand The Grand Army."

 

[Decarii Tithe]

High Assembly Convocation Hall
Theed, Naboo

Aurelian Veruna | Sentapoth Findos | Arcann Pehnataur | Aiden Porte | Niki Priddy | Dominique Vexx | Xazzex Xivar | Elara Veyran | Ravion Corvalis | Dominic Praxon | Miraya Thaine

Seating in the legal advisers’ pod, Decarii Tithe watched the cut and thrust of the High Assembly. Wounds - literal and figurative - had yet to heal before the motion had been put to the elected representatives to declare war on the Black Sun crime syndicate and their allies in the Sith Order. The Aargauun had seen first-hand the brutality of both parties on Wielu, and carried no misconceptions that the worlds of the Republic were in grave danger.

But what worried her more was the letter of the law.

She had not been involved in the drafting of the Bill put forward by Senator Veruna, a decision to which she took deep offence. While the senate halls were stacked with brilliant legal minds, Decarii knew she was in a league above the rest. Her law firm, Blackwell, Pa’get and Tithe, had their winning reputation for a reason.

"Recommend you remove direct reference to Priddy engineering from the Bill," she typed into a message for the legislative aides working for Aurelian Veruna . She wasn’t an elected member of the senate and did not have the right to stand and speak unless called upon to provide expert opinion. But Decarii know that the true decision-making happened behind the scenes and not on the Assembly floor.

"Don't want private company on the statute books," she added. If the Bill was enacted as written, PGEM would be forever etched into the black letter law of the Republic. Were a scandal to befall the company, the Assembly would irrevocably be linked to them. Better to announce the contract in a speech or press release.

"Substitute with 'Finance Committee will establish agreements with suitable manufacturers.' Or something to that effect." If PGEM was ready to go, it should only take hours for the contracts to be drawn up. She toyed with the suggestion that Priddy be nationalised by the Republic to give the High Assembly ultimate control, but doubted that its fiery CEO would ever agree.

Decarii shifted in her seat, her body still aching from the skirmish in the Corporate Council chambers on Wielu. While she had escaped largely unharmed from the blood bath, carrying Senator Annasari to safety had left her tender. She opened up a new commlink channel to another Senator as the temperature of the debate continued to rise.

“200%? How the frak will they fund that!?” she messaged Senator Sentapoth Findos . The Trade Federation-aligned politician put forward a motion to have an independent committee assess any construction bid, a move that would drastically lower the probity risk. The last thing Decarii wanted to do was defend the legislation in court on behalf of the Republic. “Taxes? Cuts to health or education? Republic is new money, not old money. Creds are thin on the ground over at Treasury.”

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Dominique turned in Miraya Thaine to briefly rebuttal a comment that could not slide, "The host of industry on Denon, Senator Thaine. That an entire planet whose sole occupation for thousands of years has been industrial development and practically unrivaled domination in that market should be so blithely overlooked galls. Miss Priddy's company may be a staple for Naboo manufacturing, but no one can out perform our shipyards, our factories, and our mines. Certainly not when they are aligned."

There were many comments -- or barbs -- that were tempting to address, but it wasn't prudent to explore everything. One's message got lost amidst the noise when you started answering trivialities. Perhaps it had nearly done so with Niki and her negotiating what her handout would look like. Dominique certainly didn't like nor agree with what Aurelian was pulling here, but why should Denon be the only one preparing? The Black Sun nearly had a beachhead to launch a sustained assault on Denon. The Galactic Empire could just as easily impose another blockade -- like the One Sith before them. This Republic had best be there if or when her people needed them or those that claim Denon might not be so blind as its use as a war machine.

Despite both having come from the same ordeal, and both eager to ensure they could more readily respond in the future, they still had slightly different angles. At least people couldn't say they'd colluded from the start -- though that should have been obvious in how they weren't Denon companies in this bill. "Senator Veruna, your patient tolerance for corporate debate is most gratifying, but -- and I say this as much to Senator Pehnataur -- you cannot build a fleet without weighing the financial impacts, and ensuring your partners don't rob you blind and relocate somewhere else in the galaxy at your expense. None of this is a pitance. But the threat is real, ladies and gentlemen. And threats can only be effectively countered by purchasing the defenses necessary to ensure our way of life. We must establish a framework to ensure the defense of the Republic is met, and to reaffirm our committment to meeting it. If necessary, allocating emergency funds to a party to begin in earnest."

"If necessary, by exploring additional means of raising sufficient capital. This body is not without an Economic Development board to explore those very options, and you can be certain it will its top priority to ensure the stability of the very Republic we intend to defend."

Miraya Thaine | Arcann Pehnataur | Aurelian Veruna | Sibylla Abrantes | Sentapoth Findos | Aiden Porte | Niki Priddy | Xazzex Xivar | Elara Veyran | Ravion Corvalis | Dominic Praxon | Miraya Thaine | Decarii Tithe​

 

[Aiden Porte]

There was a small murmur between the Jedi that were assembled near him. Some had plain away agreed and others had their reservations. Rightfully so...

Where there was war there was also traces of the darkside. His thoughts drifted to a later part of the bill, the use of clones. While Aiden had no experience or opinion on the matter. As he had never fought with and or against clones. He wondered if the Republic call upon its citizens to join the fight against darkness, corruption and death. He knew much more than most, he had his meetings with those that had lost. Those that had a grieved and moved on. Most did, and most would also agree to go into battle for their families. The more that he thought about it now as the Senators before them exchanged words about the situation of financial stability and what it would cost.

Clones would be better beneficial, it would cut down the times of training for those regular individuals. He knew little of Kamino, for sure on one of the main and primary cloning facilities in the galaxy. Yet where that stood, was still a mystery.

He heard a whisper next to him, as a Jedi leaned over and spoke. "Do you really think we should go to war, Knight Porte?"

Aiden took a deep breath as he looked over to him, whispering back. "We have a duty to uphold peace, and defend the innocent. Can we in good faith sit by while thousands and maybe more are displace by the Empire. The Black Sun showed their colors as they attempted to assassinate one of our assembly members. And a sith was now involved in the attempt as well."

"But war?"

Aiden nodded his head, he knew what he was getting at. It was essentially a callsign for the darkside at least to him anyway. "We will have to rise up and face it sooner or later. The events from the Netherworld proved Naboo is willing to rise up and defend its own, and now we are called to do the same. As our borders expand, the protection goes beyond Naboo. We now have a duty to each and everyone who is just, right and hopeful in this world. As long as we hold true to each other, we don't forsake each other in our fight against the darkside and evils of the world."

Aiden looked over to him and gave a small smile. "We will persevere and get through this, together."