Faction When Tragedy Strikes, Ambition Prevails | THR Senate

[Eadu Yittreas]

The sun over Theed was aggressively bright, much to the irritation of the recently elevated Senator Yittreas, as he ascended the grand staircase of the Republic Senate Building. A modest individual in both attire and manner of speaking, the most notable characteristic of the new legislator was his deeply set eyes, which appeared to have withdrawn from the world into their own deep recesses, giving him the appearance of someone who was eternally peaking out from the entrance of a cave.

As he traversed the Republic's version of a rotunda, the muted murmurs of aides and foreign diplomats followed him like a chilling breeze. They were not solely discussing him, at least not in entirety. Their conversation revolved around the political vacuum created by Monaray Dod, as the official reports from Toshara referred to it as a structural thermal malfunction. The Mid Rim streets labeled it a calculated assassination, a term preferred by Eadu.

Dod had been a boisterous Neimoidian, characterized by his avarice and adeptness in politics, having served the Galactic Alliance with loyalty, albeit not always in their best interests. Now, he existed merely as a footnote in the uninspiring security of the Republic and a possible platform to further his own ambitions.

He arrived at the imposing doors of the main chamber. The guards of the Republic Senate, dressed in their ceremonial chrome attire, stood at attention as he neared. They attempted to make eye contact, yet their gazes consistently shifted to the bridge of his nose or his forehead, unable to rest on the deep, shadowy recesses where his pupils remained.

He stepped onto his hovering pod, the repulsorlift emitting a soft, sorrowful tone. The Senate was already in a flurry of activity, a tumult of vibrant robes and hurried gestures. The Chancellor requested silence, yet the atmosphere was laden with the scent of fear, a scent that Eadu was skilled at collecting.

"The Republic has done much for the galaxy by making overtures with our neighboring powers and safeguarding the planet of Corellia from the tremors of the Galactic Empire's boot. Though the terror of the Imperial Regime is no longer a concern for the galaxy with its downfall, there remains a singular concern about security. A common word that means protection, but where was the protection for our recently deceased colleague, in Senator Monaray Dod." Eadu began, offering a polite praising of the High Republic's recent actions and highlighting the downfall of the Galactic Empire if rumors were to be believed at least. Though perhaps there was a hint of suggestion that the Republic was preoccupied with foreign affairs and so they were unaware of threats at home.

"In light of this failure to protect a member of this legislature. The Delegation of Alassa Major calls for the current Magistrate Ravion Corvalis to step down due to his failure to enhance security for the Republic Senate while knowing there were bad actors at large such as the Black Sun Syndicate who kidnapped the former Chancellor. Surely the Magistrate would not intend for the recently elected Chancellor Vexx to take the blame for this preventable incident under his watch." Eadu continued, his unblinking gaze sweeping the room, making dozens of representatives shift uncomfortably.

 

[Duncan Avaron]

Seris Travin-Avaron Eadu Yittreas Ravion Corvalis

​

Lord Duncan Avaron sat comfortably within the quiet dignity of the senate chambers, posture relaxed in a way that came only from long familiarity with the chamber and its theatrics. He listened without interruption, light blue eyes tracking the rise and fall of voices as the death of Monaray Dod was dissected and repurposed before the full weight of the Republic. He had seen this pattern before. A body was barely cold before ambition began to circle.

At the mention of resignation and failure, his jaw tightened almost imperceptibly. He did not look toward Eadu immediately. Instead, he turned his head just enough to glance at Seris beside him.

"Death arrives, and the vultures come to feast and pick apart th Republic." he murmured under his breath, his tone low and edged with disdain. His fingers rested calmly along the rail of the pod, but there was tension there all the same, coiled and patient.

Only then did his eyes lift toward the delegation of Alassa Major, settling on Eadu with cool appraisal. He studied him not as a man, but as a problem. As a symptom.

Who is this filth, he whispered to Seris, the word chosen deliberately, not in anger but in judgment. His gaze did not waver as the chamber continued to churn around them. Whoever Eadu was, Duncan already knew one thing with certainty. This was not about Monaray Dod. This was something else, he could feel it.

He looked over to Seris once more. "Does this vermin have enough evidence to support a case of negligence in Ravion's role as Magistrate?"

 

[Verity Stuyveris]

​

Verity leaned forward a fraction of a degree, the only concession she allowed to show an interest in this new entry to the Senate. Eadu Yittreas was an unknown quantity, at least until he opened his mouth. He seemed preternaturally poised to pounce, before Senator Dod's insides had yet been scraped off the walls of his office. Glacial blue eyes narrowed ever so slightly. It seemed -- odd. News of Dod's assassination had barely had a chance to be reported, and surely there were as yet no confirmed suspects, let alone those identified by law enforcement.

It was strange. Peculiar, even.

She wished Eharl Sarn was there to kibbitz with about it. The tea was percolating on the sideboard in case he availed himself of the open invitation.

In the meantime, she studied Yittreas. When he had finished his motion, Verity signaled her intention to speak and, when recognized, she rose to take the podium as her pod ventured into the rotunda. "Madame Chancellor, I rise to add my outrage to that of our new colleague, the gentleman from Alassa Major. I'm certain I speak for the whole of this august body when I demand a full and transparent investigation into Senator Dod's death, and a comprehensive review of security measures being put in place to ensure that other members of this venerable body are protected in their homes and offices."

Verity paused to allow others to chime in with their agreements or -- however unlikely -- their disagreements, before continuing.

"And while I can appreciate the fervor with which the honorable gentleman from Alassa Major seeks to hold accountable any who might be responsible -- however tangential that responsibility -- I would instead urge that this body reserve its judgment until a full investigation can provide us a more complete picture." Verity hesitated a moment. She was not known to be a sycophant of the Magistrate; his powerplay earlier in the year had left a bad taste in her mouth. "Madame Chancellor, my immediate impulse is to propose that this matter be placed before the Senate Security Council -- yet, Senator Dod's death is a failure in the Council's mission, and it is not a best practice to have a body investigate its own failures. May I propose, instead, that the Senate compile an investigatory commission to work alongside law enforcement to compile recommendations for reform and, if warranted, the recall or impeachment of Security Councilors or -- again, if warranted -- the Magistrate?"

Dominique Vexx | Eadu Yittreas | Duncan Avaron​

 

[Eadu Yittreas]

Eadu observed Senator Verity Stuyveris from a distance as her fervent address reverberated through the senate chamber. He had launched the spear at Magistrate Ravion Corvalis prematurely, a strategic gamble to test the atmosphere. She was keen in both appearance and voice, unwilling to allow a newcomer to the Republic Senate to undermine the Magistrate without justifiable reason.

He adjusted the controls of his pod, allowing it to glide a few meters nearer to the center of the rotunda, an act of submission to the collective will of the chamber. He wore a faint, tired smile that failed to fully illuminate his sunken eyes, as the political game was just about to commence.

"The esteemed Senator from Druckenwell is correct as always in grasping the fundamental principles of this assembly," Eadu remarked, his tone retaining a modest quality, laced with a hint of malice. Ambition could not simply be curtailed by following established protocols; it needed to be eradicated entirely without question.

"In my eagerness for justice, it seems that the appropriate protocols were overlooked, and the accused was not afforded the opportunity to contest any evidence that would be presented." He turned his head slowly, shadows dancing across his face.

"Of course, a commission is not merely a fair substitute for blind justice; it is a superior option. If the security of the Republic is as inadequate as the final moments of Senator Dod imply, then a mere resignation is a mercy that the Magistrate may not rightfully deserve. A comprehensive investigation will ensure the transparency that the citizens of the Republic will insist upon." Eadu experienced a chilling sense of satisfaction.

By conceding, he had shed the persona of a radical and embraced the role of a collaborative team member. More significantly, a commission is a dynamic entity. It can be nourished with information. It can be composed of individuals with specialized knowledge, men and women whose allegiances are subtly linked to Alassa Major.

"I formally withdraw my call for an immediate resignation," Eadu declared, his voice echoing with a manufactured sincerity. "And I second the motion for the creation of the Investigatory Commission on Senatorial Security. In fact, to ensure its impartiality, I suggest we include representatives from the outer systems who felt the shockwave of Toshara most deeply in terms of inter-system market access."

He reclined, the shadows of his pod enveloping his figure. In just three minutes, he had shifted from being the aggressor to becoming the strategist. By seemingly conceding the debate to Verity, he had secured the ethical advantage and a position at the table where the true fate of the Magistrate would be determined.

 

[Seris Travin-Avaron]

Seris did not move at first. She sat with the same composed stillness she carried into every chamber that mistook noise for authority, her hands resting neatly in her lap, posture elegant without being performative. Around them, the Senate churned in its usual currents of outrage and opportunity, but her attention remained fixed on the pattern beneath the words rather than the words themselves.

Duncan's murmur reached her like a low blade drawn in the dark. She did not glance at him immediately, not because she was ignoring him, but because she was watching the room while he watched the man. When she finally turned her head, it was only enough to meet Duncan's eyes for a heartbeat, her expression measured.

"Not enough to prove negligence," she answered him quietly, keeping her voice low so it did not carry beyond their pod. "Not yet. What he has is timing, outrage, and a name he can hold up like a torch, and he is counting on the Senate to confuse heat for light."

Her gaze returned to the rotunda, following Eadu as he retreated into the posture of reason.

"Listen to how quickly he pivots," Seris continued, careful, deliberate. "He arrived with an accusation because it forces everyone to pick a side, and now he offers 'impartiality' because it allows him to pick the room."

She breathed out slowly, controlled.

"He does not need evidence to begin damage," she said. "He only needs a process he can steer."

When Verity rose, Seris watched her with quiet approval. Not in agreement with every word, but appreciation for the instinct to slow the blade before it struck. It was restraint, and in a chamber like this, restraint was a kind of courage.

Seris lifted two fingers subtly, signaling her intent to speak when the floor permitted. When recognized, she rose with composed grace, her presence calm but undeniable, and let her gaze sweep the chamber once, not lingering long enough to provoke, but long enough to be seen.

"Madame Chancellor," Seris began, her voice even and clear, the cadence of a noble who understood ceremony and the discipline of choosing every word. "I add my support to the demand for a full investigation into Senator Dod's death, and to the necessity of a review of our current security posture, both within these halls and beyond them."

She let the statement sit for a moment, giving others space to agree without being forced.

"However," she continued, "I urge this body to recognize what is being asked of us today, and what is not. We are being asked to respond to a tragedy. We are not yet equipped to assign culpability for it."

Her eyes shifted briefly, not accusatorily, but directly, toward the delegation of Alassa Major.

"There is a difference between accountability and acceleration," Seris said, tone still composed. "The first is justice. The second is spectacle."

She returned her gaze to the Chancellor.

"A commission may be appropriate," she allowed, "but only if its structure prevents it from becoming a political instrument. If this commission is to serve the Republic rather than serve ambition, then its composition must be balanced, its authority narrowly defined, and its access to evidence governed by law enforcement protocols rather than senatorial preference."

Seris paused, then added with careful precision.

"The Senate must not create a body that can be quietly fed selective information and then declared 'transparent' only when it yields a convenient conclusion."

She did not raise her voice. The weight came from the clarity.

"If we proceed," Seris continued, "I recommend three safeguards. First, that the commission be temporary, with a strict timetable and mandated public reporting at set intervals. Second, that it include representation from core and outer systems equally, yes, but also include non-partisan security professionals appointed by this chamber, not aligned to any single delegation. Third, that it be prohibited from recommending disciplinary action against named officials until preliminary findings have been corroborated by law enforcement."

Her gaze flicked once more toward Eadu, calm, unreadable.

"Grief does not excuse haste," Seris said softly. "And fear should not be allowed to write policy while the ink is still wet."

She inclined her head, then sat with the same quiet composure she had risen with, neither triumphant nor agitated, simply present.

Back in the privacy of their pod, she leaned a fraction toward Duncan, her voice lowered again.

"To answer your question," Seris murmured, eyes still on the rotunda rather than on him. "He does not have enough evidence to remove the Magistrate today. But he is not trying to remove him today. He is trying to place his hands on the mechanism that will decide whether the Magistrate can survive tomorrow."

Her expression remained calm, but there was steel beneath it.

"If this commission is formed," she added, "we must ensure it cannot be turned into a blade."

Eadu Yittreas Verity Stuyveris Duncan Avaron Ravion Corvalis Dominique Vexx

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Dominique regarded those in chamber without mirth and in turn as each spoke. There'd been no effort for the Chancellor to jump in to defend the Magistrate from the sudden and viscous assault by Eadu Yittreas. Ravion was capable of defending himself if the circumstances necessitated it, and an equally expressive denial would only feed the fervor of the thought there was something to the accusation. Whether good or ill, others in the chamber felt similar in terms of not hastily penciling in Ravion's political execution.

"First, and foremost, let it be known that this Republic stands appalled at what appears to be a terrorist attack against one of our own. That we recognize the loss of Senator Monaray Dod, a devoted and passionate representative of Toshara and its people." There was a moment of silence as her golden eyes panned over those in attendance. While the two of them had not a warm relationship, they were hardly enemies. Decorum aside, these events did trouble her.

"The severity of this crime shall not be downplayed. I have every confidence in the investigative forces of Toshara, but this Chamber too held the Senator in high esteem and -- as evidenced by the outcry -- would know more of those that would strike in such a cowardly manner. All resources of this Republic shall be brought to bear to discern the truth and to enable the people of Toshara to receive justice." What had been the angle? The purpose of such a blow. Whatever it was, if the perpetrator believed it would distract the Republic from whatever it was they sought to accomplish they would be mistaken. Ucovering the perpetrator and remaining vigilant against their ultimate objective were within their power.

"Toward this end, and with the consent of this body, a Commission would be formed with the mandate to uncover who murdered Senator Monaray Dod. This Commission would report at least quarterly to this assembled body regarding the progress of the investigation, and coordinate with local law enforcement bodies to enable a swift and effective conclusion. It would be expected such a Commission would produce its Final Report no more than two standard years from the date its Charter is established," she added in recognition of Travin-Avaron's concern. "Let none mistake this as a political body, but an extension of our collective will to do right by the Senator. The investigation shall not veer off into tangents and pursue unrelated matters, entities, or persons. It shall ensure any participation meets all legal standards -- that any evidence gathered may be used at the trial of the purpetrator." Those were her safeguards to add to the pile of possibilities to keep it from being a means of investigating any one's personal rival or object of distaste be they citizen, politician, or corporate in nature.

Dominique extended her hands outward to all those present. "I welcome all other safeguards already proposed and to be proposed to be drafted as a Charter of this Commission, and invite all here to put forth their ideas."

Eadu Yittreas | Verity Stuyveris | Duncan Avaron | Ravion Corvalis | OPEN​

 

[Ravion Corvalis]

The Magister’s pod did not open as it approached the point of address.

Instead, the chamber lights dimmed by a fractional degree as a familiar blue shimmer resolved itself above the dais. The hologram was crisp, unusually so, projected not from the Senate’s own systems but routed directly from a private vessel in high orbit. Ravion Corvalis stood framed by the clean, angular interior of his ship’s office chamber, hands folded behind his back, posture in an immaculate stance of prestige.

He inclined his head once. Respectful and deliberate to the chamber.

“Madame Chancellor. Esteemed Senators.”

His voice carried evenly across the hall, neither raised nor diminished by distance.

“Before anything else is said, let us acknowledge what has been lost.”

A brief pause. Not for an effect, but for weight to settle on all those in the room.

“Senator Monaray Dod was a true servant of this Republic. His death is a tragedy that warrants our collective grief, and more importantly, our collective resolve. I extend my condolences to his family, his staff, and to the people of Toshara; the world he represented.”

Only then did Ravion’s gaze lift fully, scanning the chamber, the accusation still hanging in the air, unanswered but not ignored.

“Grief, however, must never become a weapon. Nor should fear be allowed to masquerade as decisiveness.”

There was an edge in his tone for those truly listening. It wasn’t defensive by any stretch of the word. It almost felt like a calm offensive.

“I have heard calls for resignation. I have heard demands for immediate judgment, all of which I respect and understand. They have been heard. However let me be very clear. This Senate does not honour the fallen by tearing itself apart in haste.”

He shifted slightly, holographic light rippling across the gold filigree of his robes.

“Concerns regarding Senate security are legitimate. We have had them since before my office, and it was one of the corner stones on which the Magistration was built. They deserve scrutiny, not spectacle. Process, not panic.”

Ravion folded his hands before him now, a subtle shift into formality.

“To that end, I formally support the establishment of an independent Senate Security Review Commission. One composed of cross sector senatorial representation and external security experts, empowered to investigate fully, transparently, and without any form of political interference.”

A soft murmur went through the senate chamber. Most would not have expected this.

“However, independence must be more than a word.”

His gaze sharpened.

“To ensure absolute neutrality, I am enacting upon my position of Magister to formally refer this act of terrorism to The Jedi Order for corroboration. As an institution bound not to political ambition, but to truth, the Jedi stand uniquely positioned to act as a genuine third party oversight body. The Jedi Council will allocated a representative to be assigned as Senatorial Liaison to my office and in extension the senate.”

The chamber was given a moment to absorb that.

“Their role will be one of judgment, enforcement, and of verification. Ensuring that facts presented to this Senate are complete, unaltered, and free from partisan distortion.”

Ravion inclined his head slightly, acknowledging the weight of the demand.

“I and my office will cooperate fully with both the commission and the Order. I have nothing to conceal.”

The implication settled quietly.

“This Republic has endured because it does not abandon its principles at the first sign of crisis. We do not preserve stability by offering heads to the mob. We preserve it by standing firm in law, unity, and reason.”

“There are forces beyond this chamber who would celebrate our division. Criminal syndicates. Extremists. Those who profit from chaos. Let us not do their work for them.”

His voice remained steady. Immoveable.

“I will not allow fear to fracture this Senate. I will not allow ambition to eclipse responsibility. And I will not allow the death of a colleague to be exploited as a political accelerant.”

A final pause.

“Let us act with clarity. Let us act with dignity. And let us ensure that when justice is delivered, it is done so with precision, not haste.”

Ravion inclined his head once more.

– – — – –​

The hologram collapsed into nothingness.

For a moment, the command chamber of Ravion Corvalis’ personal vessel was silent save for the low hum of systems and the distant glow of hyperspace lines sliding past the viewport.

Ravion did not move at once. He remained where he stood, hands still folded behind his back, gaze lingering where the Senate chamber had been only seconds before. Then, without visible reaction, he turned.

Kayrce was already there.

The aide stood at his side with characteristic stillness, red eyes unreadable, a slim datapad cradled against one forearm while several additional files hovered in a precise hololine formation beside him. He said nothing. He did not comment on the address, the accusations, or the political shockwaves now rippling through the Republic.

Instead, he simply extended the datapad.

“Updated projections,” Kayrce said calmly. “Security realignment drafts. Economic response models. And the preliminary vote count revisions.”

Ravion accepted the device without pause, his attention shifting seamlessly from Senate crisis to cascading figures and text. His thumb moved across the surface, skimming, annotating, approving. To any observer, it might have appeared that the death of a senator, the threat to his office, and the scrutiny of the Jedi Order were little more than an interruption to an already full schedule.

“Prepare the next transmission window,” Ravion said at last. “And notify our contacts that the timetable remains unchanged.”

Kayrce inclined his head. “Of course, Magister.”

Ravion turned back toward the viewport, watching the open space of Naboo fold endlessly into the blue of hyperspace ahead.

Behind him, the Republic reeled.

Ahead of him, the work continued.

Dominique Vexx Verity Stuyveris Duncan Avaron Eadu Yittreas​

 

[Gareth Alatha]

Senate Rotunda
Tags: Dominique Vexx , Verity Stuyveris , Duncan Avaron , Eadu Yittreas , Ravion Corvalis , Seris Travin-Avaron

​

"I welcome all other safeguards already proposed and to be proposed to be drafted as a Charter of this Commission, and invite all here to put forth their ideas."

“I will not allow fear to fracture this Senate. I will not allow ambition to eclipse responsibility. And I will not allow the death of a colleague to be exploited as a political accelerant.”

A final pause.

“Let us act with clarity. Let us act with dignity. And let us ensure that when justice is delivered, it is done so with precision, not haste.”

"A riveting first session," Gareth noted, clearing his throat.

Hosnian Prime was very new to the High Republic. In fact, they had only just joined. Gareth had been running his campaign with the intention of being in the Galactic Alliance senate. Then that fell, the Imperials swooped into the core only to crash and burn. Now it was the Sith in their place. And today?

His first day on the job.

That didn't mean he was shy. Oh no. Gareth Alatha let his pod drift out into the center of the rotunda and raised his voice as soon as the floor was open, grin plastered on his face. The Chancellor had invited people to put forward ideas after all. It seemed that the matter of Jedi and investigating the murder of Senator Dod was settled. The Magister seemed to be quite the driven fellow. That meant there was room for a bit of a backtrack.

"Good day to you all," he greeted. "My respects to the Magister's words, and a greeting to you all from the people of Hosnian Prime. We are very eager to have a seat at your table so we may all have a prosperous and secure future. I have some knowledge of Mr. Monaray Dod, and while his death was no doubt a tragedy, I would like to note my observation on the matter. Regardless of who may be the guilty party, a verdict that should certainly only be made by the soon-to-be Commission on the matter, Toshara does sit on the boarder of the Republic. The Galactic Empire falling back from the Core is little to celebrate. A new flavor of Sith have scooped up that territory, and they now occupy two fronts. Whatever the case may be, such a high profile crime may inspire boldness in our enemies. Hosnian Prime sits very close to the Sith boarder, so this is a great concern for my people. With Black Sun included amongst the hostile states around us, our territory is in a disadvantageous position."

The Sith. They were the most ancient enemy of his family, the vessel that saw them stripped of their royal status on Farfalla. It only took one member of their brood to dabble in their dark arts to see them banished for the rest of time. Now he and his kin harbored a generational hatred for their kind, one that was in their very blood. Gareth knew not to turn his back on their kind.

"I suggest that perhaps this institution should begin looking into bolstering the local militias of our boarder worlds," the Half-Bothan suggested. "Or something equivalent so our people on the fringes can get some sleep at night. While we wait for a verdict on the murder, we should take steps to at least prepare for something more to come. I have no formulated bill for such a thing at the moment, more riffing off of our Chancellor's call to put forth ideas. Perhaps we may find ourselves some proper momentum to put something together."

Now he could get a good idea of what people were looking for in the coming days. With Sith on both sides, everyone had goals they wanted to achieve. A desire to bend the Republic towards their goals. It was time for him to sit back and listen.

Maybe see if he couldn't do some steering of his own.

 

[Eadu Yittreas]

From his pod, Eadu watched the projection of Magister Ravion Corvalis appear before the assembly with a hint of amusement. He was a formidable player when it came to politics now that he saw fit to summon the Jedi Order the galaxy's symbol of impartial justice to his aide. It was a move designed to silence critics and wrap the magistrate's office in a cloak of legitimacy, unable to do wrong.

As the murmur of the Senate began to settle following the overtures of the new Senator for Hosnian Prime, Gareth Alatha . He did not move immediately to make a counterargument but moved with the silence of the chamber in order to not draw unwarranted suspicions. "The Magister's move to involve the Jedi is a masterstroke of transparency," Eadu began. He offered a slight, stiff bow toward Corvalis's hologram. "But we must be careful not to mistake a protective shield for a neutral searchlight."

He turned slowly, the shadows in his deep-set sockets shifting. "To allow the Magister the very head of the office under scrutiny to hand-pick his own investigators sets a chilling precedent. If the accused is permitted to curate the eyes that audit them, the democratic process ceases to be an inquiry and becomes a ceremony of exoneration."

Eadu was unwilling to permit the Magistrate an escape from his charge of incompetence regarding senate security. The Jedi Order possessed limited knowledge of judicial processes and were, to be frank, inexperienced investigators. They could easily be convinced to overlook crucial evidence on Toshara if they considered such discoveries detrimental to the stability of the High Republic.

"If we allow this today, we tell every future official that they may choose their own judge. That is not accountability; it is a tactical retreat." As soon as he spoke, the smile on his face failed to reach his eyes, indicating a deeper layer to his thoughts. Should the senate permit this to happen, corruption could swiftly proliferate, aligning perfectly with the objectives of his benefactors.

"I must insist on a correction that the Jedi should be involved in the process but they be invited by the Chancellor and this Commission, not the Magister. Their liaison should be vetted for bias and report directly to this body, bypassing the office of the accused entirely. Let the Jedi be the Republic's witnesses." He was unable to openly deny the Jedi Order access to the investigation; however, his requests for an impartial liaison should serve to temper the Chancellor's influence. After all, true impartiality was a rarity, and any evidence collected by an individual could be scrutinized by him.

He glanced toward Gareth Alatha of Hosnian Prime, offering a polite nod.

"And as for our colleague from Hosnian Prime's concerns regarding the Sith and our borders, how can we hope to bolster local militias or stand against external threats if we cannot even guarantee that our internal investigations are free from the shadow of executive influence?" Eadu eased his pod back into the darkness of the outer ring. He had successfully reframed Ravion's impartiality as a potential conflict of interest without ever calling the Magistrate a liar. He had placed a wedge between the Jedi and Corvalis, and in doing so, he had ensured that the Commission stayed exactly where he wanted it: in the hands of the politicians.

 

[Dominique Vexx]

The Jedi. Dominique regarded her Magister's hologram in silence, still as a statue. They were far from a bad choice, but their pursuits often blazed with a moral certainty that had little room for negotiation or interpretation. They were the white to the Sith's black. Meanwhile, the rest of the galaxy occupied the countless shades of gray between them. Sibylla would probably support their inclusion, but that didn't alleviate past... difficulties with their kind before.

Still, the Republic had not been the Alliance -- with one merely picking up where another left off -- so perhaps the Order within the Republic was not cut of the same cloth as those in the Alliance either. Dominique reasoned they should be given their chance, but she worried what it might become. Politicizing the Jedi is arguably one of the reasons for strife back in the Alliance. Would there soon be Senators shaking their sabers about Jedi investigatory overreach? Perhaps some legislation to curtail their authority? Well no one said leading a body politic was easy.

Ravion didn't even wait for any rebuttal to his own call to proper decorum. The new voice of Hosnian Prime wasted no time stepping into that void either.

The Chancellor regarded the man that spoke up, and heard his words. Militias? Yes, bolstering the capabilities of the border worlds would do well. Though that was not always the most prudent course of action. Dominique had observed the movements of galactic fleets over the years. She'd seen them skip right by the border worlds and strike at the very heart of their opponent. If anything, they should be clamoring for interdiction fields be setup in every occupied system to snare such fleets... if only there were a way to safely permit the trade vessels as well. And it was the latter problem that kept Dominique's tongue silent on the notion. A chilling thought indeed for market health.

Eadu quickly stepped forward once more to redirect the Senate's attention on the matter he'd introduced. Dominique listened as the man built up a case for the inevitable proposal on his mind. When it finally dropped, she could only think how much more efficient proceedings could be if people led with their idea rather than the justification for it.

"Senator Yittreas is, of course, correct," she began with a slight pause, "those charged with pursuing this matter would be interviewed before being deputized by this body. We will not have someone chosen at random, and they will pursue the evidence wherever it takes them. That being true, while the lead investigator would periodically report to the Senate regarding this matter, they would remain under the command of the Jedi Order -- should they accept our request -- and under the oversight of the Office of the Chancellor concerning procedural concerns." And the Jedi could thank her for that later.

"With regard to the militias, this is a proposition we should take to the governors of all worlds, solicit their thoughts, and coordinate with Republic Armed Forces to understand what would needed to fill any perceived gaps." Dominique's attention drifted back to Eadu as the man thought to slip out of the center of attention. "The threats against any one person, and the Republic as a whole require careful and deliberate thought. They cannot be addressed using the same means. Our capable Service Members and their experienced Leadership shall pursue both in their own course to find solutions that can be applied to every world, and to protect all of the Republic's citizens." So, naturally, Dominique would make sure all those leaders were made aware of her expectations. She couldn't be the only one saddled with more work and responsibility -- not that any of this was 'new' responsibility.

Eadu Yittreas | Ravion Corvalis | Gareth Alatha | Verity Stuyveris | Duncan Avaron | OPEN

FYI Aiden Porte | Aurelia deWinter | Sibylla Abrantes​

 

[Duncan Avaron]

Ravion Corvalis Verity Stuyveris Seris Travin-Avaron Eadu Yittreas Gareth Alatha

​

At the arrival of various others, and words being cast and spoken. Duncan looked over to Seris briefly before looking back to those assembled.

"The chancellor speaks it best, unlike others here that are too hasty in their....what was it, pursuit for justice?" Duncan spoke with a calm manner, it was clear he was going to have no like for this senator, his haste in his actions, and his attitude in their brief moments had already left a terrible impression. "The Magistrate deserves that respect, this is not the fault of one person alone."

"Being a Jedi myself, but not affiliated with the Jedi Order. I agree that oversight will be needed in selecting the panel to deal with this terrible incident."

"Coordination with our worlds that are on the border, between local militia forces and Republic Army is already taking place. Perhaps a visit to the border worlds is needed, to see for ourselves.

 

[Eharl Sarn]

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Senate Hall
Theed City | Naboo
Items: x

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Ravion Corvalis Verity Stuyveris Seris Travin-Avaron Eadu Yittreas Gareth Alatha

Senator Earl Sarn of Enarc took in all that had traversed between the Senate and the desire to investigate the unfortunate death of Senator Dod.

With a rumbling hum from his twin throats, the broad Ithorian gave a slow nod. With a panning gaze of amber eyestalks towards his political brethren, the Enarc Senator commented on the task.

"Then it is settled. We shall request an inquiry and an investigation via our Jedi Liaison Sela Basran to bring before the Jedi Council. With their counsel, may the truth of the matter of the unfortunate demise of our fellow Senator be discovered and the culprits brought to justice."

Another nod.

"If the Jedi Order is unable to assign the task, then this shall be moved promptly to the oversight of the Republic's investigative force. We cannot delay this matter any further."

With that the matter was tasked. With luck, the investigation would be assigned and delgated for prompt review and those responsible brought to justice.

 

[Seris Travin-Avaron]

Seris had remained quiet through much of the exchange, seated with her hands folded neatly in her lap, her posture composed and unobtrusive. She had listened more than she had spoken, tracking the currents of the debate with the same focus she would give to a difficult meditation: not clinging to any single voice, but watching how they moved against one another.

When the moment finally came for her to speak, she did not rush to claim it.

She inclined her head slightly toward the Chancellor first, then toward the wider chamber, her voice calm and measured when it carried across the rotunda.

"Madame Chancellor. Esteemed colleagues."

There was no flourish in her tone. No attempt to command attention. Only quiet clarity.

"I will not speak as a legislator, nor as an authority on governance," Seris said evenly. "I speak only as someone who has spent much of her life observing what happens when institutions allow fear, ambition, or uncertainty to guide their decisions."

She let that settle before continuing.

"The proposal before us is, at its heart, sound. A commission with clear limits. External oversight. Cooperation with law enforcement. And now, potential involvement from the Jedi Order." Her gaze moved briefly toward where Ravion's hologram had stood, then back to the chamber. "Each of these elements, on its own, offers stability. Together, they offer restraint."

Her hands remained folded, her posture unassuming.

"I understand the concerns raised about impartiality," she acknowledged, her eyes briefly finding Eadu. "They are not without merit. Any investigative body must be protected from influence, whether intentional or incidental. That includes influence from this chamber, from the Magister's office, and from external interests alike."

She shifted her attention to the wider assembly.

"At the same time," she continued, "we must be careful not to construct a process so burdened by suspicion that it becomes incapable of functioning. Oversight must ensure integrity, not paralysis."

There was a quiet firmness beneath her calm.

"If the Jedi are involved," Seris said, "it should be with clear boundaries, transparent reporting, and defined authority. Not as arbiters of politics, but as independent verifiers of evidence and procedure. Nothing more. Nothing less."

She paused, then added gently,

"And if they decline, the Republic must already be prepared to proceed without delay."

Her gaze softened slightly as she turned toward the Chancellor again.

"I would advise that the Charter of this Commission prioritize three things above all else: limited scope, protected independence, and fixed timelines. Without these, even the best intentions will erode under pressure."

A faint breath escaped her, almost a sigh.

"As for the concerns of our border worlds," she continued, acknowledging Gareth's remarks, "they are real, and they deserve attention. But security built on panic is fragile. Security built on coordination and trust endures."

She inclined her head toward Duncan briefly, acknowledging his remarks, then returned her attention forward.

"We are being watched," Seris said quietly. "By our citizens. By our allies. And by those who would benefit from our division. How we conduct this investigation will matter as much as its outcome."

Her voice lowered just slightly.

"If we act with patience, transparency, and discipline, we deny our enemies the chaos they seek. If we act hastily, we hand it to them."

She fell silent for a moment, then concluded simply,

"I support the formation of the Commission under the framework outlined, with strong safeguards and clear oversight. And I stand ready to assist, in whatever advisory capacity this body deems appropriate, to ensure that this process remains focused on truth rather than convenience."

She inclined her head once more and settled back into her seat, content to return to listening rather than dominating the floor.

Eharl Sarn Duncan Avaron Dominique Vexx Eadu Yittreas Gareth Alatha Ravion Corvalis Verity Stuyveris

 

[Dominique Vexx]

"Thank you, Senators. Your words today should reassure the citizens of the Republic of your commitment not to what is expedient, but what is right. To this end, and in echoing the sentiments you here have expressed, let me add: this Commission -- and this Senate -- must take it upon themselves to not only analyze the evidence with a drive to find the perpetrator, but to reflect on their own conduct and the authority extended to them." Dominique turned to look at Seris for just a moment with a slight nod. "While not its primary focus, once the investigation is concluded the lessons learned here might instruct how we engage other bodies and conduct similar investigations going forward. The intricate relationships needed across worlds for an endeavor like this will yield unexpected opportunity for growth and refinement. We would be remiss in overlooking such valuable observations."

"My Office shall reach out to the Jedi Order and request the assistance of one of their finest investigators. And, as several Senators have expressed, should they decline we will review all available parties and select an investigator that will suit our purposes: to identify, locate, and apprehend the criminal that murdered a Representative of this Republic."

If there were no further comments, Dominique would move to adjourn the session so that the work could begin. There would be no small number of committee meetings, review boards, and discussions held on this matter. All of which would not delay the investigation overly long. True, some matters would not be settled by the time the investigation began, but that would be on the Office of the Chancellor to navigate those areas along with the selected investigator. And should it appear certain elements were seeking to delay the investigation, Dominique would see to it such efforts were thwarted -- she was not one to be held hostage by the letter of the law she was tasked to uphold. Provided the Jedi Order agreed to assist them.

Eharl Sarn | Ravion Corvalis | Seris Travin-Avaron | Eadu Yittreas | Gareth Alatha | Verity Stuyveris | Duncan Avaron
FYI Ala Quin​