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

[Niki Priddy]

Tags: Aurelian Veruna | Sentapoth Findos | Arcann Pehnataur | Aiden Porte | Dominique Vexx | Miraya Thaine | Xazzex Xivar | Decarii Tithe | Ravion Corvalis | Dominic Praxon


Niki pinched the bridge of her nose while she closed her eyes to ignore the forming headache. The attempt failing as it began to form behind her eyes and make itself clearly known.

The details of this bill being nitpicked to oblivion and back as she sighed. The pressure only barely released as she waited for the speech to finish before standing once more.

"Honored Assembly," Her hands resuming their parade rest form as she stood and looked at each face among the Assembly.

"I will make this painfully simple."

"Priddy General Engineering and Manufacturing is the only company that answered this emergency call with a validated production plan, manifests, and actionable production facilities. I have further explained in detail about a proposed amendment to this plan." Her words clear and concise as she resisted the urge to pace.

Relaxed despite the tension she felt in her hands, hidden behind her back as nails dug into the soft flesh to keep herself calm and focused.

"The stop-gap we have proposed, not a standing monopoly as has been implied, and the numbers behind it will deliver needed reinforcement to naval elements to secure time. Time to allow for others to put forward their own bids and to aid the Republic as they are able." The slightest tilt of her head as she glanced around the Assembly to spot those that showed any interest in that fact.

Splitting away from that portion of the topic as she produced a datapad and plugged it into the pods system to share among the senators.

Information from the fleet formations above Wielu (see objective 2 description) being shared from the blackbox systems aboard the returning Republic Fleets.

"Intelligence from the blackbox's of the remaining Republic fleet elements along with witness reports show Lucrehulks around Wielu repurposed and repainted in the Black-and-Gold livery, operating inside the blockade corridors consistent with the Black Sun Syndicates imagery. This evidence is further sustained with the attack that left Senator Veruna to display the wound of that meeting. That wound is visible to everyone. It is not a talking point. It is evidence." Images of the Black and Gold painted Lucrehulks bearing the emblem of the group dominating report.

Niki returned to her talking points finally, resuming the parade rest stance as she let her nails dig into soft flesh once more.

"Let me be blunt about incentives and intent. We are not here to buy control of the Republic. PGEM does not seek to exclude smaller firms. On the contrary: I have already spoke at length on the intent to set aside labor for qualified smaller yards and independent contractors under fast-track procurement windows once initial milestones are met. This is intentional: get ships and kits into the field now, then scale and diversify production to reduce single-point failure."

"This debate is not about awarding a lifetime contract. It is about the Republic surviving long enough to argue the points that all have presented. Release the 20% under a verified trust with auditable milestones, so the production of defense elements can be acted upon. These measures can then be amended as needed when the Republic's position is strengthened and its safety capable of allowing these drawn out discussions." Her expression never changing from the blank and unreadable mask she had used for years now to present before potential investors.

Keeping her own emotions in check for the time being.

"The delegation has made its wishes for the rest to be competed under terms we will publish today, for this particular contract, astoundingly clear. But this measure was put forward to secure borders in light of an attack made on the delegates and fleet elements of this Republic by a diminutive power compared to the ones on the Republic's borders." Her tone shifting to what might be mistaken for concern. She had been made to work without her own assets before coming to the Republic, and only just begun to lay the foundation for further growth.

Seeing that effort wasted with deliberating was not high on her agenda.

"The Galactic Empire. The Sith. Both powers with drive and intent to act along with the means to do so. One securing their holdings behind a wall that has proven to bend only to their will." She didn't feel the need to provide information on something that was already well known throughout much of the galaxy. Moving beyond that point to her next.

"While the other moves on the core relentlessly. A war machine that devours. Consumes. And how long until it begins to look this way completely?" Not allowing the question to hang in the air as she pressed forward.

"Or would you all be pleased to have less time to take measured steps when either of those powers properly look this way? To argue amongst yourselves when fleets and armies have begun to push into the homes of the people that make up this Republic? Be made to bury the people you represent, your fellow delegates, friends, family?" She had begun to lose the fight of emotion. Reminded of the faces she had seen when the space station she had lived on was under attack. When the people she had worked with and lived by fell victim to an attack meant to strike at the heart of a nearly forgotten group on the fringes of space.

The corner of her lip drawn into a sharp line of disgustas she scanned the faces again.

"Aurelian. Veruna. What discussion would you be having now if he had perished during this attack? Or if the others of this delegation such as Senator Annasari, or Representative Abrantes had perished rather than be wounded? There was already one death among your ranks, and you advise caution against a temporary measure meant to provide you security and peace of mind." She had done so little so long ago to amend the situation then. She would not allow the same to happen once more as her voice became accusatory.

"Would you wait to hear fewer voices? Wait while planets of this delegation fall during your deliberation and hand wringing about a single contract? One that serves to bolster the defense of this Republic as a whole? That serves to give you time to prepare your own offers and bolster production capabilities?" Her palms turned warm as she reined in her emotions. Not ashamed that she had shown some modicum of feeling. But ashamed that she had taken a strike at the delegation.

Taking a single deep breath as she continued.

"I am not aiming to control, or monopolize. I provide a service and continue to provide them. I have presented a willingness to work with you all and continue to extend a hand in cooperation. I have stated plainly and clearly that I am amenable to change or the need for adjustment." Her voice beginning to quiet as her shoulders slowly dropped from their rigid parade rest.

"The Republic needs an actionable force to secure its borders before something more than a handful of well armed and well funded criminals decides to strike." There was no further words for her to share. Nothing more she wanted to state. The bureaucracy of it all weighing her down more than old memories did. Understanding now how she had watched other systems fall.

She ceded the floor once more, turning off the augmentation to her eyes and rubbing her face as she sat down.

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

X | X​

Aurelian leaned back in his pod, a dangerous smile playing on his lips as debate swirled around him. His aide, Tona, approached, murmuring discreetly into his ear. A datapad appeared, showing a short, precise message: "From Decarii Tithe."

He read it, amusement flickering in his eyes. The point was sound, brilliant as Decarii's advice often was. Etching PGEM's name into statute law would tie the Republic's hands if scandal or sabotage occurred. It was better to keep maneuverability in the record and announce partnerships through public speech, where words were nimble, not shackled by iron.

Aurelian gave the slightest nod. Tona understood, moving off without needing more instructions. His legislative aides would already be stripping PGEM's name from the bill's language, replacing it with the neutral, flexible phrasing Decarii had suggested: "Finance Committee to establish agreements with suitable manufacturers." Aurelian tapped a short acknowledgment back to her: "Noted and in motion. Your counsel remains invaluable. Stay close; there may be more knots to cut before this bill sees daylight."

That matter settled, his gaze shifted to another datapad, already open to a different thread: Dominique. He had heard her interjections earlier, full of steel and economic pride, bristling at Miraya's dismissal of Denon's industrial might. He respected it. Denon was formidable, and he had no intention of weakening them. Yet, Denon's assets were needed elsewhere for the moment. He keyed a private message: "Senator Vexx, I haven't forgotten Denon's place in this. In fact, quite the opposite. We'll speak after this session. I have future plans for Denon that will require its razor-sharp focus elsewhere for the moment. Trust me when I say your world will have its due."

The pod drifted back into its idle position as Niki Priddy took the floor again. Aurelian didn't interrupt; he listened. It was a rare quality in this chamber, and a valuable one.

Her words were cutting, layered with controlled fury. She stood, demanding action, not just asking permission, reminding the Republic that time was a resource they were burning by the minute.

When she spoke of the black-and-gold Lucrehulks, he felt the chamber's tension tighten like a bowstring. The evidence wasn't speculative, it was fact, and facts made the comfortable squirm. She spoke of the Empire, the Sith, how they devoured. And she was right.

When she finally ceded the floor, Aurelian's pod eased forward again. This time, he didn't begin with a smile.

"Colleagues," he said, his voice low enough to make the silence lean toward him. "You've heard from Ms. Priddy. Some of you may not like her tone. Some of you may not like her terms. But what cannot be denied: she is here, ready, and acting now." He let that hang for a beat.

"Readiness in this chamber has too often been defined by comfort. We pass resolutions for tomorrow while today is burning. The Republic doesn't need to wait for a theoretical perfect bid. The Black Sun is painting its ships in the open and flying them through our blockade corridors right now. We don't have the luxury of time, yet we treat it as infinite."

He turned slightly, his gaze sweeping across those who had spoken against moving fast. "Ms. Priddy has delivered a plan. She has the facilities, the manifests, the workforce today. Not in six months, not after three subcommittee reports. Today."

Aurelian's voice shifted, the velvet giving way to steel. "We will amend the bill's language, as my counsel recommends, so no private company's name binds our law for all time. The Finance Committee will have its discretion, and oversight will remain intact. This isn't a procurement game. It is survival."

He leaned forward slightly, a dangerous smile flickering across his face. "And survival favors those prepared to move first."

His gaze swept the chamber one last time, sharper now. "Enough waffling. If there are changes you believe must be made, state them clearly, now. This Assembly needs to stop chasing its own tail and put something in the field that will actually protect our citizens. Every hour we spend circling the same arguments is another hour we gift to those who would see the Republic broken."

With that, he let the pod drift back. Aides were already sending the amended text to key allies.

@Everyone​

 

[Sentapoth Findos]

Aurelian Veruna Dominique Vexx Arcann Pehnataur Elara Veyran Decarii Tithe Miraya Thaine

​

The Neimoidian reclined in the chair as the assembly began to shift from a proactive body to the stagnation of the Alliance Senate. While this was not particularly bad news for the Trade Federation, which preferred a government so paralyzed that it could not initiate inquiries into its own dubious activities, it would also prevent the Jedi Order from conducting investigations.

A discreet ping on his console interrupted his reflection. Decarii Tithe message blinked insistently: Two hundred percent? How will they fund that!? Taxes? Cuts to health or education? Republic is new money, not old money. Creds are thin on the ground over at Treasury.

Findos typed back with deliberate calm: Exactly why an independent commission is needed. Otherwise, the funds flow unchecked to favored interests. That, Counselor, is where the Republic risks both its credits and its independence. He sent the message, knowing well that Tithe would appreciate the nuance.He turned his attention back to the Assembly. When he rose, his voice cut through the murmur with deliberate precision.

"Honored Senators, Representatives," he began, eyes briefly flicking across the chamber.

"There is no question before us that the threats confronting the Republic are formidable from the criminal machinations of the Black Sun to the Sith's relentless encroachment, and not least the ever-watchful Imperial presence. Senator Veyran's concern for the Eastern front is both understandable and urgent. Likewise, Representative Veruna's calls for prudence remind us all that urgency must not come at the expense of reason."

His gaze sharpened as it settled on Vexx. "Senator Vexx, as Chair of the Economic Development Board, you stand uniquely placed to influence both the generation of funds and the direction of expenditure. This dual role commands our vigilance, lest our efforts to prepare the Republic become a vehicle for unintended favoritism." She ought to have recognized that concentrating on the Economic Development Board was unwise, given her position as its chair. For the chair of such a prestigious organization to publicly endorse her own planet as the primary manufacturing hub of the Republic constituted a blatant conflict of interest that the assembly would undoubtedly reject.

He then looked to Priddy's pod. "And Lady Priddy, your company's readiness is commendable and deserving of recognition. Yet, we must not mistake a single proposal in a moment of crisis for the sole path forward. To build our defense dependent on one plan is to risk both the fleet and the Republic's autonomy. As for your shabby attempt to discredit my argument by showing lucrehulks, they were reported stolen from the Trade Federation Drydock two months ago and have no barring on the situation here"

Sentapoth folded his hands deliberately before continuing, his tone steady and measured. "It is for these reasons I again call for the establishment of an Emergency Procurement Commission composed of neutral systems, answerable directly to this High Assembly, empowered to solicit bids from all capable manufacturers, to disburse funds incrementally, and to reassign contracts should obligations falter." as the statement from Senator Aurelian Veruna came through on the terminal before him. There was a clear attempt to push the assembly in his direction but the Neimoidian would make strong opposition.

"This commission is not an obstacle but a safeguard: it ensures that our pursuit of readiness does not become entanglement in monopolies or unchecked profiteering. It protects the Republic's credits and its sovereignty alike. This is the only way that the Planet of Affa will ever support this Bill's passage" His pod began its slow descent back into the ranks as he concluded.

 

[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 been in rooms like this before. Not this grand, not this polished, but rooms where lives were hanging on what was decided — or not decided — inside. In those rooms, hesitation meant someone didn’t come home.

Here… hesitation just means another round of speeches.

I’ve listened to the back-and-forth until the words all start sounding like variations on the same argument. I don’t doubt the sincerity of some here — Elara Veyran, for one, speaks with the weight of a border world in her voice. But sincerity doesn’t stop a fleet. And the rest… too much of it is posturing, maneuvering, measuring influence. This isn’t a tactical briefing — it’s a game of verbal Huttball, and I’m starting to wonder if anyone in this Hall realizes how much time we’re burning.

I’ll admit — maybe I am naive when it comes to the subtleties of legislative craft. But I do know this: when your lines are this thin, you don’t have the luxury of turning every decision into a tournament. Prudence, yes. Paralysis, no.

I could call my brother Thexann tomorrow and have a manifest of ships, armor, and supplies large enough to plug half the holes in our defenses — and he’d do it at cost. That’s not a real offer; it’s a rhetorical point. But the fact that I can even say it out loud should make this chamber realize how ridiculous it sounds to still be chasing our own tails over who gets to move first.

I’m not here to insult anyone. But I’m also not here to sit through another cycle of scoring points while our enemies sharpen their knives. We have a bill on the floor that will make us ready. I’ll support it. I’ll second it. And if it came to a vote right now, I’d put my hand up before anyone could blink.

Because the people I represent — the people you represent — don’t care who wins the procurement sweepstakes. They care if they survive long enough to see the next sunrise.



-Until Next time
Arcann Pehnataur
Senator of Atzerri

(Arcann’s pod rose smoothly into the central well. He stood, hands resting evenly on the rail. His voice carried the steady cadence of a man used to giving orders under fire — calm, deliberate, unshakable.)

Honored Senators. Representatives.

Maybe I’m naive. I’m not ashamed to admit that. I’ve spent more years as a soldier than as a legislator, and in the military, ‘prudence’ means weighing your options quickly enough that you still have options when you’re done.

What I’ve heard here today? Prudence has turned into a game of verbal Huttball. Round after round of the same argument, different wrappers, while the clock runs out.

This is not — or should not be — a competition over who has the most toys to sell. If it were, I could call my brother Thexann right now, have him bring a manifest of ships, gear, and equipment big enough to shore up half our defenses, and hold it at cost until we made a decision. That’s not an actual offer — it’s a point. Because the fact that such a thing could even be said should tell us how far off course this conversation has drifted.

Senator Veyran spoke of blast doors and evacuation drills. She knows what it is to live with the threat right on your horizon. I respect that. But I’ll tell you what I’ve seen from my side of the border: the enemy doesn’t wait for you to finish your meeting. They don’t stand down while you commission another study. They move while you’re still talking.

I’ve heard a lot about commissions, percentages, procurement language, and market competition. Oversight matters — I agree. But oversight doesn’t stop a Star Destroyer from crossing your border. And oversight doesn’t bring a family back once their home has been turned into rubble.

We have a bill before us. Is it perfect? Probably not. But it will make us ready. And readiness is the only currency that matters right now.

I am not here to insult anyone, but I am also not here to watch us circle the same arguments until the threat outside these walls is bigger than we can meet. If this bill came to a vote right now, I would vote ‘yes.’ I will even second it. Because my people — and yours — deserve a Republic that can act, not just one that can argue.

This is not about who gets the first contract. This is about whether the people who sent us here will live long enough to see us pass the second one.

So I’ll end with my verbal involvement: the Republic does not have the luxury of infinite debate. Every hour we spend in this loop is an hour our enemies use to get stronger. Let’s break it. Pass the bill. Put steel in the field. And show the galaxy that this Assembly still knows how to act.”



(He inclined his head briefly, then sat. The pod hummed back to its place, leaving the chamber heavy with the silence of a challenge issued — and hopefully not easily dismissed.)




Aurelian Veruna | Sentapoth Findos | Niki Priddy | Dominique Vexx | Xazzex Xivar | @Elarsa Veyran | Everyone else

 

[Dominique Vexx]

A message appeared on the inside of Dominique's glareshades. From Aurelian Veruna . Others might take it as reassurance, but a Director of the Corporate Sector Authorities had to consider all the angles. The man had already taken one step without coordinating or even warning Dominique of what was to come. Who could say what his "future plans" entailed or if they would be near half as good as a doubling of the Republic's war chest. Where some planets sent their leaders to represent them, Dominique was but the head of one of the factions on the Executive Board; her magnanimous efforts on-world and with the Republic had drawn notice by certain Directors, and Dominique had to balance her desires with the Game necessary to retain influence. The Big Picture was of concern to this Director unlike so many others.

Equally problematic was for brevity's sake in discussions Dominique combined countless companies under the banner of "Denon." Her planet having its due was equally nebulous as her own use of the term. Which part of Denon? Which companies? To what end? When it came to arguing for a piece of the action before the Assembly at that moment putting "Denon" forward allowed a wide array of possibilities. When it came to an unnamed future, however, the endless possibilities might be more worrisome than reassuring.

Then Dominique patiently listened to Niki's impassioned retort with poise.

Her gaze then shifted to Aurelian before it landed on Sentaphos. She even listened to Arcann's plea for a decision.

"Thank you, Senator Findos, for addressing a matter I'm certain most in this chamber was curious about." Dominique smiled beneath her shades. "Fortunately, the affairs of the Economic Development Board are public record, and I invite everyone to view them at their leisure. If that is not enough, then join us as a permanent member of the Board or schedule a time to observe one of our sessions. Agendas are announced ahead of time. I think you'll be pleased to find as a Director of one of the largest, thriving markets in the galaxy my capabilities of compartmentalization, and my dogged pursuit of the greatest gain for the Republic are beyond reproach. And to that end, I did suggest any oversight body have members recuse themselves when any conflicts of interest might arise."

"As for the matter of the Emergency Procurement Commission, rather than negotiate the precise language here when other matters in the Bill must still be addressed, the Economic Development Board will invite all interested member worlds to come forth in pursuit of establishing an oversight subcommittee in coordination with the Chancellor's Office. Senator Findos, Affa would of course be a welcome addition to such a pursuit so that you can be assured allocated funds are not misappropriated."

"Were PGEM not explicitly referenced, but just an acknowledgement of party or parties accepted by the Republic would participate in the expansion of this body's self-defense capabilities, as far as the matter of financial dispersement we would approach this like any other allocation of appropriated funds."

The matter of the Clones hadn't been brought up with as much zeal as other topics, but Dominique wasn't particular keen on bringing it up. There wasn't much contention over the concept. Kamino's loss would make that a more difficult endeavor, but not impossible. An entire world's industry wouldn't be replaced overnight, but there were more than enough capable and creative entities that could fulfill the Republic's order.

"That said, Article Nine should be amended to include a designated Financial representatives from the subcommittee that will be formed. While I respect the abilities of my Defense Oversight partners, as evidenced by the lively debate in this chamber, the flow and acquisition of finance is a concern to many worlds. Allowing them a means of transparency should alleviate those concerns." She wouldn't want this Joint Wartime Operations Council to become unwieldy, but they were asking for a significant financial contribution on the Republic's behalf. The subcommittee would hardly be effective if all they had to rely on was a very carefully filtered report by the Council of expenditures.

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

 

[Aiden Porte]

"Why not just decide already?"

"Patience, my friends." Aiden spoke with a slight stern tone yet it was imbued with hope and voice of wisdom. Not complete though, Aiden wasn't by any means the one with the most wisdom. But it did show a sign of his growth over the years. While he was young he took to the archives and spent a great deal of time there learning as much as he could through books and studying. There was still much he had to learn, so much.

"There is more to this than a simple decision. War's cost money, and they have the people to think about. If it was a simple saying let's fight we would be at war already with troops assembled and an armada to deploy."

Force forbit if wars were that easy to declare, than the whole of the galaxy would be destroyed.

"They are in these positions for a reason and they know what they are doing." Aiden said with a small nod as he faced the front.

"All of them?"

The makings of a small could be seen starting at corner of the Jedi Knights mouth, which turned full as he looked to his right once more.

"Well, maybe not all of them."

 

[Decarii Tithe]

High Assembly Convocation Hall
Theed, Naboo

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

Elected members took turns coming forward in their pods to make their arguments and score political points. Decarii watched the theatre from the advisor’s pod, all too familiar with the dance from countless High Assembly sessions. While Senators fresh to Naboo believed their words would sway opinion, the lawyer knew that the reason decisions were made behind closed doors, over dinner drinks, and on the greenputt course.

Her comlink vibrated with a message from the Senator for Parrlay:

”Noted and in motion. Your counsel remains invaluable. Stay close; there may be more knots to cut before this bill sees daylight.”

“I’ll book time later this week,” she responded.

Decarii held her neutral expression and smiled inward. Having the favour of the future King of Naboo would serve her well. While the blood of a royal household did not flow through her veins, she had other ways of garnering influence and power. She made a note to call Veruna's executive assistant after the sessions broke.

Her fingers began to dance across her datapad, and she began redrafting the bill, marking up proposed clauses as Senators raised them and cross-referencing previous legislative decisions. While a legal services droid could have done the work quicker - and at a tenth of her billable hourly rate - an automatron lacked the grace and flair Decarii brought to her work. Her clauses flowed from one to the other, each subparagraph carefully worked to avoid any judicial doubt about the scope and intent of the provision.

”Exactly why an independent commission is needed. Otherwise, the funds flow unchecked to favored interests. That, Counselor, is where the Republic risks both its credits and its independence.”

The Aargauun paused to read the message from Findos. The learned Senator was right, if the assessment process got ahead of itself, the Trade Federation risked missing out on lucrative contracts.

“Agreed, let’s grab dinner tonight,” she messaged back. While it looked like the initial defence contracts were going to Priddy, there were still a lot of credits to go around if the 200% budget increase was approved.

Senator Vexx moved a motion for the Economic Development Board to establish a subcommittee to look at carving out contracts.

“Can confirmed EDB has powers under its charter to delegate decisions to a sub-committee,” Decarii messaged to Dominique Vexx after quickly consulting the rules for the board. “I can draft and send through terms of reference for new sub-committee?” Having a hand in establishing the new decision-making body could have long-term dividends for the ambitious legal advisor.

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Dominique Vexx Niki Priddy Aurelian Veruna Sentapoth Findos Decarii Tithe Arcann Pehnataur

The Senate chamber was alive with chaos.

"A sound recommendation… though we should also consider bids to have CorpSec provide training for the proposed clone units. We both saw what happened on Wielu. We cannot afford to wait for the first fleet to be procured. We need something that can go immediately into production." Sibylla murmured, just loud enough for Dominique to hear. Outwardly, she looked composed, but her pulse hammered in her throat. Her ear still rang from the injury, the imbalance in her hearing leaving her faintly sick in the rising din. The chamber felt as if it were closing in, pressing down, the whine in her head drowning out all else.

Breathe. Just breathe.

She closed her eyes, willing herself to focus. What is the next step? Where must the line be drawn?

Not in contracts. Not in endless debates of oversight. Those had their place, but not here, not now. The Republic needed readiness, not paralysis. Security, not procedure. Action, not delay.

Her breath left her in a long exhale. Her eyes opened.

Then, she quickly took her datapad. As the senators continued their back and forth, Sibylla was keyed in and focused on one thing, providing the information Senator Sarn needed to make an impact.

By the time Dominique made her proposal on Article Nine's amendment, Sibylla had already sent the information to Senator Sarn. All the while, in her mind, snapshots of events that led them to this moment raced through her mind.

Senator Calia Vonn, you are under arrest for treason, sabotage, and conspiracy with Black Sun affiliates.

War is coming to Naboo. And they're not ready. Our people, our noble houses.

The Senator, they got the Senator!

If you stand beside me, you stand with me. No hesitation. No doubt. No betrayal.

Karking, Black Sun assassins. They jumped us, came from nowhere!

The Future Empress of the Sith Empire, Darth Iraedeus, says f**k the Republic and their dead King of Naboo.

Arris. Kill them all.

You are the best of our father and our mother. The family needs you, I need you.

You're the one who can make them believe in what comes after.​

The echoes of every voice seemed to resonate in her head. And while outwardly, Sibylla seemed to maintain her composure, the flutter at her throat and the slight blanching of her face were tiny tells along the teenager's face. Swallowing hard, she took a deep breath, fighting off the nerves and twisting acid in her stomach and the pounding in her ears.

As her dark head rose, hazel eyes would settle on the direction of Aurelian Veruna 's pod. She fixated that gaze on his proud figure, still wearing his blood-stained coat and defiant in the face of the assembly as he demanded action. And while she wouldn't be able to see the amber in his eyes, she gave a subtle nod.

~ | } * { | ~
​

Across the way, the Ithorian's twin throats hummed with contemplation as the corporate bloc discussed their concerns. As party to the CorpoBloc, the elder IThorian was prone to swing towards their interests. However, he was a staunch believer of the Royal Republic, and in its transition to the High Republic, that had not changed. All the more so as the Ithorian was prone to be swayed by the Monarch of Naboo, as he had by the former Queen Kalantha.

Yet in this case, as the candidacy of Naboo shone upon Sibylla Abrantes, the young woman whom he had mentored himself and seen with his own eyes and heard from her wise counsel that mirrored that of Kalantha, he was no less apt to be swayed to the advisement of the young Ambassador.

So when he received the message from Sibylla Abrantes, the elder Ithorian's eye stalks gave a slow blink, then a nod.

Sarn's long fingers curling against the edge of the podium as his pod glided into the open. When he spoke, his voice was low and resonant, carrying across the chamber until the murmuring fractured into silence.

"Colleagues," he began, his twin voices steady with weight, "we can argue tariffs and subclauses for hours, but while we do, our citizens bleed. Curelin burns. Wielu trembles. These threats are not distant -- they are here."

The chamber quieted.

"On Cularin, Senator Amare was poisoned. Investigations revealed Senator Vonn, one of our own, conspiring with the Black Sun Syndicate. On Sepan Eight, Senator Tephrin was murdered by snipers. Our embassy was overrun by Rip insurgents armed with Imperial weapons. On Wielu, Councilor Dumas was slain, and several senators barely escaped with their lives. When their plot collapsed, the agents of Nar Shaddaa Bank shouted their intent for all to hear: 'Kill them all.'"

His gaze swept the hall.

"If even this Senate is not safe, then what world under our protection can be?"

He leaned forward.

"Commerce means nothing if our systems fall. Tariffs mean nothing if our shipping lanes burn. We are not only charged with trade and treaties -- we are charged with lives. That is the highest contract, and it demands action."

A murmur spread as Outer Rim senators nodded in agreement.

"I second the call for a State of Emergency. Release the funds now for fleet production. Expand our forces, our reserves, our defenses. Authorize the limited mobilization of clone and droid units for rapid response under non-political command. Oversight can guide us, yes...but it must never shackle us while danger stands at our gates."

His final words rang clear, echoing in the chamber.

"The time for words has ended. The time for action has come."

With that, the Ithorian pushed forward all the recommended changes to the proposal below. He also added the provision to include a droid army as well, for there will be circumstances where clones would not be the best mitigation on the battlefield.

Addendums:

1. Stripping PGEM's name from the bill's language, replacing it with the neutral, flexible phrasing Decarii had suggested: "Finance Committee to establish agreements with suitable manufacturers." (Added by Decarii Tithe Aurelian Veruna )
2. An addition of an Oversight Subcommittee formed by the Economic Development Board and representatives of interested member worlds. (recommended by Sentapoth Findos and Dominique Vexx )
3. Addition of a droid army alongside a clone one. ( Recommended by Senator Sarn of Enarc)

THE HIGH REPUBLIC
ROYAL ASSEMBLY OF THE HIGH SENATE

SENATE BILL No. 4417-WR
THE REPUBLIC DEFENSE EMERGENCY EXPANSION AND PROTECTION ACT
Proposed by Senator Aurelian Veruna of Naboo​

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PREAMBLE

In light of coordinated incursions by the Black Sun Syndicate, Sith-aligned operatives, and agents of the Galactic Empire, the High Republic faces direct threats to its sovereignty, the safety of its citizens, and the stability of its borders. These crises include confirmed hostile activity at Sepan 8, the Sarko VI ambush, the Wielu incident, mass detainment of civilians behind enemy lines, and critical deficiencies in current defense readiness.

The Royal Assembly, in accordance with its founding principles of unity, protection, and the preservation of the Republic, enacts the following:

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ARTICLE I. TITLE

This legislation shall be known formally as the Republic Defense Emergency Expansion and Protection Act (SB.4417-WR).

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ARTICLE II. PURPOSE

To authorize the immediate expansion of the Republic’s military capacity, declare a formal state of emergency, initiate wartime measures against hostile powers, and ensure the rapid protection and extraction of Republic citizens in compromised territories.

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ARTICLE III. DEFINITIONS

The Republic – The governing body, institutions, and authorized military and defense apparatus of the High Republic.

Hostile Powers – The Black Sun Syndicate, Sith-aligned entities, and any Imperial or criminal proxies engaged in acts of war, sabotage, or destabilization against the Republic.

Emergency Military Expansion – The rapid increase in active and reserve combat forces, fleet assets, and defensive installations as authorized under this Act.

Clone Trooper and Droid Deployment – The controlled and limited mobilization of clone and Droid units for rapid-response missions under non-political operational command.

Evacuation Zones – Designated sectors where Republic citizens are trapped or endangered by enemy occupation.

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ARTICLE IV. STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION

A formal state of emergency is hereby declared across all Republic territories in direct response to hostile actions outlined in the Preamble.

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ARTICLE V. DECLARATION OF WAR

The Republic formally declares a state of war against:

• The Black Sun Syndicate and all known affiliates.
• Sith-aligned operatives and organizations acting against Republic interests.
• Imperial proxies engaged in the destabilization of member worlds.

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ARTICLE VI. EMERGENCY MILITARY EXPANSION

The Ministries of Defense and Naval Command are authorized to:

1. Increase active military forces by no less than 50% within the first quarter following enactment.
2. Expand fleet capacity through immediate shipyard mobilization, including acceptance of the PGEM production bid for initial manufacturing contracts. Thereafter, the Finance Committee will establish agreements with suitable manufacturers for ongoing production.
3. Establish forward operating bases in sectors under direct threat.
4. Commission the immediate production of clone units through authorized facilities under secure Republic jurisdiction. Ensure all clones receive accelerated combat training and integrated unit deployment within ninety standard days of production, with priority given to evacuation, counter-insurgency, and infiltration operations.

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ARTICLE VII. CIVILIAN PROTECTION AND EVACUATION

The Republic shall:

1. Identify and designate Evacuation Zones.
2. Deploy military and humanitarian assets for immediate civilian extraction.
3. Provide relocation and reintegration assistance for evacuees.

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ARTICLE VIII. FUNDING AND BUDGETARY AUTHORIZATION

1. An emergency defense budget increase of 200% shall be allocated for the duration of the declared emergency.
2. An Oversight Subcommittee shall be formed by the Economic Development Board.
3. Priority disbursement shall be made to approved defense contractors, with Finance Committee will establish agreements with suitable manufacturers authorized to begin preliminary construction and outfitting under oversight of the Joint Senate Defense Committee.
4. All expenditures shall be subject to wartime audit procedures.

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ARTICLE IX. OVERSIGHT AND REVIEW

A Joint Wartime Operations Council shall be established, consisting of:

• The High Chancellor.
• The Minister of Defense.
• Designated Senators from the Defense Oversight Subcommittee.
• Senior Military Commanders.
• Financial representatives from the subcommittee that will be formed

This Council shall report bi-monthly to the Assembly on operational progress, expenditures, and threat assessments.

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ARTICLE X. ENACTMENT

This Act shall take effect immediately upon ratification by the Royal Assembly of the High Senate.

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Oh? Dominique caught sight of Decarii Tithe 's comment in her glareshades. Calculating woman. She wanted to be indispensable. Well, anyone worth elevating themselves in society should be so ambitious. She was the woman that'd advocated passionately for sealing the deal on Wielu as well.

By all means, Miss Tithe. I look forward to reviewing your work.

The last name hadn't gone unnoticed either. It was far from a concern. True, the former Chancellor seemed to have cast his lot in with the Trade Federation represented in the chamber by Findos, but that didn't make them enemies. Dominique would review Decarii's work separately and weigh her worth as an individual... but she'd also be mindful of alliances not visible by the naked eye. Blood -- sometimes -- was thicker than water.

Then Sibylla Abrantes murmured a comment that caught Dominique's ear. She turned her head just enough to catch sight of her companion from the corner of her eye. Train the Clones? What an intriguing idea. The Republic weren't as battle hardened as the Mandalorians by far, nor were they even up to Denon standards. Reliable partners -- or friends -- truly was a marvelous thing.

Dominique soon crossed her arms as she listened to the Ithorian address the chamber. Safe? The Senate had yet to understand the sentiment Sarn had thrown before their feet. Obviously few of them were listening to Aurelian, herself, and now undoubtedly Sarn's warnings. The enemies were at the gates and everyone was acting like it was a holofilm they could pause or stop at their leisure.

What was that phrase Dominique heard once? The avalanche has already begun, it is too late for the pebbles to vote.

And just like that mention of a Droid Army ended up in a proposed amendment. Dominique exhaled audibly and glanced back at Sibylla. They would have to discuss the particulars of that little 'gem' later. There wasn't much she alone could do to deter the Assembly. They weren't hearing clear and present dangers to their livelihoods, why would they hear the dangers of mechanized units? Well, Dominique would simply have to encourage Denon's electronic warfare and counter-warfare companies to offer their services to the Republic.

As for Sibylla's earlier thought, Dominique would save it for a smaller, more appropriate audience. Namely, the Defense Oversight and Budgetary Oversight Subcommittee. No need to get into haggling over who'd provide training here and now. As it turned out, there was an organization even better than CorpSec that Dominique would put forward to meet the need. One that the Republic would have far less hand-wringing and teeth-gnashing over; though she expected there'd still be complaints of some kind. They were inevitable.

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

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

X | X​

Aurelian leaned back in his pod, exhaling slowly, letting the tension in his shoulders ease, though only slightly. His fingers drummed against the armrest, tapping an irregular rhythm as if counting the patience he no longer possessed. Around him, the chamber roared with debate, a cacophony of urgency and self-interest. Each word fell on his ears like sand through a sieve. He rolled his eyes, a faint flicker of exasperation crossed his otherwise composed face.

Again, he thought. The Republic wants action, but it devours its own deliberation before any blade hits the field. He hadn't slept properly since Wielu; not since the fires, the blood, and the relentless tide of crises that seemed determined to drown every attempt at calm. And now here they were: a chorus of senators wringing their hands over subcommittees, oversight boards, and endless minutiae. It would have been comical if the stakes weren't so lethal.

His gaze swept past the pods, lingering just long enough on Sibylla to catch the subtle shift of her focus, the tiny nod as she moved information like a shadow behind the scenes. She knew how to operate. Aurelian allowed himself the faintest smile, dangerous and fleeting, as he noted her presence in Dominique's pod, coordinating and thinking three steps ahead. That kind of precision, loyalty, and intellect was rare in the Assembly, but also invaluable.

Then Sarn's words echoed, a call carried from Sibylla's guidance, and Aurelian's attention sharpened. "The time for action has come." He repeated it in his mind, letting the syllables resonate as though they were his own. He rose slightly in his pod, leaning forward, fingers spread across the controls. His voice sliced through the chatter like a vibroblade through durasteel.

"Indeed," he said, low and deliberate, yet brimming with authority. "The time for action has come. Now. Action is needed now, not tomorrow, not after more committees or endless reports and posturing. Every hesitation, every word spoken for comfort, gambles another life, leaves another system defenseless, and gives our enemies an advantage." His dangerous smile flitted across his lips, sharper now, as if daring the assembly to defy him. "We have the plan. We have the people capable of executing it. We have the oversight necessary to prevent catastrophe. Make no mistake, this isn't a debate on paper, it's a war in the shadows, and the first step toward victory is decisiveness."

He extended his arms slightly, his hands moving as if drawing the chamber together, an invisible web pulling focus to him. "Senator Vexx, Senator Findos, Lady Priddy, Senator Sarn… your contributions will ensure that no single interest dominates our Republic's defense. Neutrality, readiness, and speed. These are our weapons. PGEM's name need not bind us; the Finance Committee's discretion, tempered by oversight, is sufficient. Clones? Droids? Whatever it takes, let the machinery of this Republic move now. Let no hesitation linger to weigh upon us like a tombstone."

Aurelian's gaze roamed the room, sharp and deliberate, locking briefly on each of the key players he trusted, or needed to trust, before settling once more forward. "We will act. We will fund. We will produce. We will protect. Our purpose is survival, not glory, contracts, or personal gain. We do this for the people who sent us here, and for those of us who will see the Republic endure long after this chamber has emptied."

He paused, letting his words sink into the tension, letting the dangerous weight of his presence press against the wavering courage of the hesitant. "Enough talk. Enough bickering. Let the bill pass. Let the fleets be built. Let our systems stand ready. Now."

@Everyone​