Dav Man'Sell
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Post by Dav Man'Sell on Jul 24, 2013 10:46:26 GMT -8
Georj's small eyes, magnified dramatically by his thick spectacles, settled on Senator Naberrie from Naboo, as she nominated a Human - none other than Senator Darma of Rendili, even - for the Vice Chancellor post. Many might not even consider the implications, others may well have been affected by them without being conscious of it, but Georj, with his clever little brain, and his shrewd, if somewhat cynical, reasoning and understanding, saw what Naberrie was going for.
A Human Vice Chancellor to an 'alien' (Georj so disliked that term as a one phrase-catch all for anything not Human) Chancellor would help to unify the Senate, appeasing those still carrying prejudices of Palpatine's High Human Culture doctrine.
As for Darma himself, whom Georj had met and conversed with for the first time just yesterday, the Rendili Senator had adequate, if not extraordinary, credentials for the position. Darma's defence proposition was a testament to the man's clear thinking, and all in all, Georj felt he rather liked the Senator from Rendili. There were few with more clout and recognition, and Darma had the potential to do a decently competent job.
He gave a glance over to his Bovorian companion, who was studying a small display before him. The plump little man considered disturbing and consulting with the winged representative - he decided against it, however, in due course. He was the sole primary representative for their sector, and had the authority to make a decision autonomously with regards to votes such as these, and, as he had earlier observed to himself, the Bovorian had such a limited grasp on the Galactic political climate, that he would probably know next to nothing about the candidates on hand anyway.
His mind made up, the plump little senator stood, and touched the controls to detach their senate pod from the wall, sending it floating into place to permit him to speak.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"Osarian seconds the nomination of Senator Darma of Rendili."
He offered a glance - one that rather spoke of agreement and shared belief - to Senator Naberrie, before turning and giving a clear and respectful nod to the Senator seated in the Rendili pod. Finally, he gave a nod to the newly elected Chancellor, before sending the pod carrying himself and Fotran gradually drifting back to its berth.
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Post by Vice-Chancellor Darma on Jul 25, 2013 13:01:54 GMT -8
It was with genuine surprise the Darma heard his nomination, and second. He had been quite focused on trying to make his defense bill feasible for all planets, knowing quiet well the cost of even the smallest of fleets. He returned Georj's Nod, and deftly moved his float out to the center of the rotunda. When he was recognized by the senate, he addressed the gathered beings as briefly as he could.
Thank you fellow senators for you votes of confidence. If the republic should choose to bestow upon me the seat of Vice-Chancellor it would be a great honor to serve under Chancellor Cihlbar as we all work towards a better Republic.
I quickly move the float back to it's niche in the rotunda, well aware that I was made even more conspicuous by my replica old republic armor. I consider carefully how I should best thank those two who had stepped forward to make and second the nomination. I certainly didn't want to appear to be paying them off, but I felt it would be gross insult to overlook their actions, it would have to be dealt with latter. There was still much to be done this session.
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Post by Chancellor Cihlbar on Jul 26, 2013 18:28:55 GMT -8
Senator. . . Chancellor Cihlbar listened to the remarks of a handful of revered Senators in the Rotunda as Bef'ima declined on behalf of Crom'nen, the Senator from Ryloth. However, the Senator from Rendili was nominated, seconded and accepted his nomination. Cihlbar announced the official recognition of Senator Darma's candidacy. He gave ample time for any outlying or particularly bashful Senators to pipe in within any nominations. There were none.
"Seeing no other nominations, I will move for a motion for consent." A resounding, approval came from the chambers. "Seeing no objections, it is so moved with unanimous consent, your new Vice Chancellor: Senator Budi Darma." A resounding and respectful round of acclamation ensues. "I will ask that Vice Chancellor on the dias for the remainder of this meeting. Speaking of which, looking at the this of the approved agenda, I will allow an opportunity for any Senator to suspend Rules and Procedures to allow any item be moved to forefront of this meeting. Otherwise I will call for a recess indefinitely until I can come up with a list of sub committees and assignments to be confirmed by this body. . . with that in mind; do I see any motions?"
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Post by Vice-Chancellor Darma on Aug 1, 2013 12:38:09 GMT -8
Sen, no, Vice Chancellor Darma, moved to take his seat next to the Chancellor as was asked to do. He'd been honored by the nomination, but hadn't really expected to receive the position, and so he'd been sitting with an expression of shock on his features as he was voted into office. He quickly regained his composure however, and was his usual pragmatic self by the time the Chancellor asked for motions. Darma had two of his own, one he'd promised to bring on behalf of Fresia, and one of his own making. Standing Darma spoke with a deep level voice that carried easily.
Chancellor and esteemed senators, I have two motions that need the senate's urgent attention. First I move that the republic should welcome the planet Fresia into its folds. It is a wealthy world that could boost our own growing economy, and it has strong defenses, this world has much to offer the republic.
Seccond, the Vice Chancellor moves that all republic worlds be required to field a token(80+pts) defense force. Provisions have been made for planets of limited resources, and all ships made by RSD to meet the proposed requirement will be sold at cost, Rendili will not be profited by this proposal. We are many worlds and to few fleets. It is my belief that a serious threat would completely overwhelm this republic. We have all worked far to hard to let this happen, sentators I urge you to act now before it is to late. Who knows how long it will be before the mandolorians trun their greedy eyes on the republic?
I sit down and take a deep breath. I had actually intended to go much more in depth with the defense bill, but I am still overwhelmed by the unanimous vote of confidence in my ability to serve the republic. My face has settled back into its pleasant and determined mask, but my mind is reeling with all the changes that this will bring about... I turn my focus back to the rotunda, hoping that I haven't missed anything in my brief lapse of focus.
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Crom'nen
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Posts: 868
Affiliation: loyal only to himself, working with Ryloth and the GR
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Post by Crom'nen on Aug 1, 2013 16:47:50 GMT -8
Belf'ima stood, and moved her pod out to be heard, clearing her voice. She knew she did not need it. She garnered much... attention... already, just with her appearance. Still, she stood with an air of nobility and grace.
While the planet Ryloth would like to second and openly welcome a new world, I must also remind the Senate of the conditions of Ryloth's joining. Ryloth had a proud, warrior culture, and our Deathseeds rival any fighters in the galaxy, we have no capital ships. We have no training for such vessels as a whole. Ryloth's inclusion was conditioned on the Republic providing such defenses. To make such a blanket provision might discourage poorer worlds, especially on the Outer Rim and further, from being included.
It is Ryloth's opinion that such a provision might seem well to Core Worlds, but generalities that affect other worlds negatively should be avoided.
Belf'ima then yielded the floor for response, but did not redock her pod as to allow her point to remain out there. She even left room for the subtle insinuation that a HUMAN made such a proposal not understanding the plight of non-humans. This could create instant division in the Senate without such a concern being voiced. Yes, Belf'ima thought to herself, Crom'nen was not the only one with a talent for the eloquence and manipulation required in politics, though she hoped to be more focus on the good of the whole than he was.
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Dav Man'Sell
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Post by Dav Man'Sell on Aug 1, 2013 17:29:32 GMT -8
The Osarian Pod drifted forward once again, and once again, the senate's eyes were drawn to the odd form of little, round Georj Lorrimer, with his bulbous belly and ill fitting suit and slight stoop to his posture. He eyed the Ryloth representative with curious, studious eyes.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"There are alternatives, Representative Belf'ima, that could be explored for worlds lacking the facilities to build or crew their defensive vessels - as the Senator for Rendili has already pointed out, Rendili is offering to build, for any world within the Republic, the vessels necessary for a proposal such as this at cost, with no profit taken for the drive yards."
His chin dipped, and he offered a glance in the direction of Senator Darma.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"I presume, since the berths necessary for building such vessels will therefore be occupied, preventing other, commercial construction projects from taking place in them, that this actually means that Rendili StarDrive would be operating at what constitutes a loss, all for the purposes of easing the burden on..." The Senator turned, again, to the Ryloth pod. "... how was it you put it... poorer worlds. The proposal already seems to be willing to accommodate the limitations of the worlds outside of the core."
He lifted a hand, and with a nod, gestured towards the Ryloth pod.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"Perhaps it would be more practical, and more beneficial to the Republic as a whole, if you were to offer some suggestions on how the obstacles could be addressed and overcome? This is, after all, at the proposition stage. I'm quite sure Senator Darma would be more than willing to make adjustments to his proposed bill."
His hands clasped together before his belly, and his eyebrows lifted in questioning arcs above the thick frames of his spectacles.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"Or would you prefer us to remain glass jawed and toothless?"
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Crom'nen
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Affiliation: loyal only to himself, working with Ryloth and the GR
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Post by Crom'nen on Aug 2, 2013 7:11:29 GMT -8
Belf'ima was well pleased. Senator Lorrimer was every bit what she had researched him to be. In fact, she believed that he kept his rather... unusual... appearance so that others would underestimate him. In this case though, she believed his girth worked against him. He was what others might perceive as the quintacencial "fat cat" from the capital. His appearance made him the perfect target of the overindulgent rich, while her slim frame represented the ill fed Rims. The fact that he was human only served to illustrate the silent point of "us" verses "them."
Toothless? Belf'ima grinned the sharp teeth of the Twi'lek. Not at all. The Twi'lek people have a proud warrior tradition. We would never wish to deny others the means to defend themselves. But there is a term which you used, profit, I believe it was, that makes the "sacrifice" of Rendili less noble than you might have it appear. If Rendili, and presumably Mon Cal, build these ships at cost, there is still materials, skilled laborers, and even executives to be paid for. I believe that everyone here would agree that we must protect our new Chancellor and Vice Chancellor from accusations of war profiteering on behalf of their homeworlds, no matter how baseless these accusations would be.
And how would Senator Lorrimer pay for these things? Add to the debt and force the Republic to seek loans from others, like the very Mandalorians with whom we are at war? Perhaps you would indebt yourself to the Imperial Reminant, those whom remain loyal to the ghost of he who built the Death Stars? There is a wise proverb: "The borrower is slave to the lender." As one who has personal experience with slavery, I would avoid this fate for us.
Belf'ima let her eyes scan the room, letting her words seek in. Though just an aide months ago, her tale of slavery and rescue by Crom'nen was well known.
So what is the solution? Take taxes I suppose. Some might call on the burden to fall on wealthier world in proportion to their wealth, but then cries of unfairness come, siting that world that reap benefit should pay the cost. So still worlds like Ryloth are taxed beyond their means, forcing us to borrow from wealthier worlds, and pay back with taxes and whatever exports they might demand. Again, Belf'ima let people wonder if the Republic would therefore cause the Twi'lek slave trade to rebound. And how would these ships be crewed? Again, the Twi'lek have no great naval fleets? Would you cause our men and women to be taken from their homes and sent to your academies so that we might crew our own ships?
While these solutions might be "beneficial to the Republic as a whole," to use the Senators own words, they would bankrupt our people so that the Republic might violate the agreement they made with Ryloth and other worlds, to provide protection in exchange for taxes. These "obstacles" are inconvenient, however, so let us just ignore their existence from the safety of the Rotunda. I personally do not believe that sacrificing the Rim Worlds for the sake of the whole makes the Republic stronger nor better. Yes, we need bigger, stronger, better fleets to protect ourselves from our enemies, but let us not cast off those allies we have simply because they are not a means to that ends.
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Dav Man'Sell
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Post by Dav Man'Sell on Aug 2, 2013 15:55:06 GMT -8
Were Georj one to smile, he might well have smiled at this point. As it was, however, Georj did not often smile. In fact, it was a noted oddity regarding the man that he was almost perpetually in a state of sombre sobriety, lacking levity or true excitement in any sense of the word. As such, he was never seen with what could be reasonably called a true smile, a quirk that had earned him, among his former colleagues and his smattering of friends, the somewhat ironic nickname of "Smiles". The closest thing to a true smile that Georj Lorrimer ever demonstrated was a tight lipped expression, with the corners of his mouth drawn back but never upwards. It was more an expression of acknowledgement than joy, and on this occasion, seemed entirely unsuited. Instead a deep blink, and an entirely different tight lipped acknowledgement, coupled with a subtle frown, won over the man's sober face.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"Perhaps I missed the point you were making there, Representative. Lost, I think, in the circular and self-defeating argument."
Another blink, and a dip of his chin coupled with a slightly deeper frown.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"The Republic must provide a defence for all it's worlds, but it cannot, because Ryloth doesn't believe that the costs can be covered fairly, but it must, because that is the agreement it made with certain worlds when they joined."
Georj glanced down at a data screen before him, before looking back again to the Twi'lek.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"I fail to see how this can feasibly be achieved without every world contributing to the need for defence in some fashion. Budgetary reallocation at a central level only goes so far - without an increase in taxes, the Republic, as you have already clearly pointed out, would be reliant on external lending to fund a true defence. Should, then, the burden lay entirely on the richer worlds? Should they provide the technology, the finances, and the people?" A glance, out into the Rotunda as a whole. "The representative for Ryloth has already suggested that it would be tantamount to a sort of slavery to force their people to contribute to this cause."
His head lifted, and canted to the side, as his eyes turned once more to Belf'ima.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"Are you saying that the people you represent, the proud warrior people, many of whom have struggled so hard to throw off the shackles of slavery, would prefer to be dependant entirely on the richer members of the Republic to provide a true defence to Ryloth? You would prefer to be mollycoddled as children, to rely completely on external support for the bulk of your defensive ability? Because that doesn't sound like the choice the people you represent would make to me."
One more deep blink proceeded the head canting back over to the other side, eyebrows raised, questioningly.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"If that's not what you are suggesting as a solution, then perhaps you could be a little clearer as to what you are proposing?"
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Crom'nen
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Post by Crom'nen on Aug 3, 2013 5:37:04 GMT -8
Perhaps, had the Senator listened, Belf'ima imitated one of his deep blink, insinuating he was too tired to pay attention, then he would understand. She looked around at the Senate as a whole. If we here pass the sweeping proposals that Senator Lorrimer suggests out of a sense of fear due to the war, we will force out well intentioned worlds that contribute as they can.
Now I do not have the experience with politics that the good Senator here has, as he has just pointed out by calling my entire species "mollycoddled children." A mistake, she knew, further proving the division between humans and those lumped together simply as "non-human." His slip of the tongue might be played across the galaxy. It seems that, to the Senator, only naval based worlds like Rendili can provide "true defense." Let us remind the Senator that it was not a great naval battle that defeated the Death Stars, but small snubfighters, similar to the Deathseeds. Let us remind the Senator that is was not a naval force that took down the shield at Endor, but soldiers, like the Twi'lek. It was not naval forces that defeated Krytos, but the Twi'lek people. Naval forces did not avail against the Eclipse class Super Star Destroyers, nor the World Devestators that attacked Mon Calamari. Nor did naval forces defeat the Vong. Let us not underestimate the contributions of worlds simply because they do not have shipyards.
Ladies, Gentlemen, and other beings, are we not the Republic? Are we not meant to be the beacon of light to the rest of the galaxy? What are we to say here today, that citizens herein only matter as we on Coruscant can place a monetary value on their existence? Perhaps Senator Lorrimer is correct. The Republic will be much easier to defend if there are less worlds to be a part of it. Let us remove from the Republic worlds like Ryloth, Omwat, and Ithor. Let us send a clear message to the galaxy that we do not stand together for peace and justice, but we stand for selfishness and fear. We stand together as long as it is convenient, but not when it is difficult.
Belf'ima turned to Lorrimer. You ask me what I would do. I would not in a moment of doubt and fear drive a wedge between sister worlds by passing a law that would force some to leave the Republic. Let us pass a resolution, not a bill. Let us not require some to contribute beyond their means, but let us request member worlds contribute more as they can. After all, if our enemies think like you do, they will also believe the shipyards to be more valuable and requiring more defense. Passing a large, sweeping, blanket measure without considering the cost would make us unwise and uncaring. Let us remember that we do not represent shipyards and factories, but people. Billions of individuals who entrusted us to look out for their interests. If we raise some above others, then we have already lost what we came here for.
Belf'ima looked around. There was passion in her eyes, but no anger. That was one difference between she and Crom'nen. He had long ago lost any sense of idealism. She still had hers. He would have argued passionately and angrily, and sought perhaps to destroy Lorrimer's career. She had no desire to do such, seeing him as not an opponent, but someone also seeking what is best. True, the children comment angered her, and showed that the Emperor's ghost was not all gone, but he would pay for that mistake without her punishing him for it. This was not about him, nor her, nor Crom'nen. Unlike Crom'nen, she believed that those individuals mattered, and she reminded Crom'nen of that constantly.
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Post by Vice-Chancellor Darma on Aug 6, 2013 11:52:23 GMT -8
Vice Chancellor Darma had allowed the discussion to go on for a time, hoping that a solution to the general lack of available funds would be presented, but nothing seemed to be coming of this discussion so he decided to step in and address the matter personally offering to the members a possible solution that had come to mind a few weeks ago. Claiming the senate's attention he spoke clearly and calmly, aware of his position in the unspoken division and knowing that it would decrease his credibility, he strove to make his oints as strong as possible.
To the would be accusation of war profiteering, any so called profit would be in the hands of the citizens of Rendili, so far as Rendili StarDrive is concerned. I myself hold no stock in the company, nor have I any benefit from it's prospering or failing except as it pertains to the welfare of my constituents.
Looking now to Belfima, I address her stated concern of revoking past contracts and the need for a strong defense over Ryloth. I try to speak as to an equal, and focus very hard on keeping any note of contention or frustration from my voice.
As I mentioned before, though briefly, the composition of each planet's given defense force is not set. As such, Ryltoh could fulfill, and indeed probably already has filled, the required defensive forces entirely with it's famous Deathseed fighters. Thus Ryloth is unlikely to be a world in need of increasing it's defense budget, due largely to it's proud and formidable warrior culture, and the contract for the republic to provide capital ships, for the defense of Ryloth is untouched, and still very much in effect. If that contract is not being upheld I will personally see to it that Ryloth receives the promised aid.
I return my focus to the rotunda at large, while gesturing to both Ryloth's and Osarian's flaots, to acknowledge their attempt to find a solution to the problem of funding.
As for the matter of who should pay, and how much. Perhaps we ask the wrong question. All have already payed, to some extent or another, just to be apart of this grand republic. So I have given much thought to this matter and consulted many experts in the hopes of finding a solution. The most appealing of the Taxation options, is a Tariff on trade with the Mandolorian and Hutt worlds, but even that has its drawbacks. Instead, I suggest that each world offer what it can, as it can for it's own defenses. For instance, Ryloth is a mineral rich world, RSD would accept a portion of ore as payment for any qualifying purchases. Osarian however, is more of a resort world, offering little in the way of resources and, for the sake of argument, most of its capital is tied up in the tourist trade. RSD would accept several small payments in lieu of the usual up front purchase. I believe that while payment will be difficult for some worlds, it will not be impossible. I am also willing to insert a clause in this bill that will allow less bountiful worlds to borrow the needed funds at a low rate with infrequently compounding interest, so long as the loan is offered by another member world. If this is still unsatisfactory, I request you provide a solution with your argument as I seek to protect all our constituents, at minimal expense.
I step back to signal that I had nothing further to add for now. I had spoken with earnest sincerity, and hopefully with clarity, though time was bound to show my hopes wasted. I believed that this was necessary for the republic's survival, and was truthful when I said that I would get no profit from the bill. In fact, RSD was simply glad for the opportunity to employ it's workers again. Things had been slow since the Vong attack, and they hoped to be able to avoid laying off workers with the respite this bill could give them in business, though as Senator Lorrimer has noticed it would end up being a net loss for the company, they were not without a substantial overhead to buffer the loss, and had deemed the risk worth while, if not profitable.
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Crom'nen
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Affiliation: loyal only to himself, working with Ryloth and the GR
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Post by Crom'nen on Aug 6, 2013 18:50:02 GMT -8
Belf'ima listened carefully, but in truth, was disappointed by the new VC's speech. Clearly Darma did not have the grasp of the sublties of politics that Crom'nen did. He appeared genuine, but that suited politics ill. In addressing the issue of war profitteering, he had brought up an implication that she had made, yes, but implying it as a falsehood. But Darma's defensiveness added doubt to his claims of innocence from those that might oppose him. Though he might not have stock in RSD, clearly he was speaking for them now. Moreover, in his own words, the move would benefit the eployees, which were the people who elected him. This could be seen, however falsely, as Darma putting his people's wallets above the Republic. Belf'ima doubted this readily, though she was sure Crom'nen would have stood and said so just to weaken the position of the Vice Chancellor. Also, in addressing Ryloth's specific situation, he left open other Rim Worlds like Honoghr and Omwat to doubt what RSD might arbitrarily demand of them as a part of their forced participation in the Republic. He was adding to the very division that Belf'ima required to win the vote.
In truth, Belf'ima believed all of these accusations to be false, but she also knew that politics was about appearances. In this case, she simply believed that the right move was to pass a resolution, not a bill. A resolution gave the freedom to have the fleet, which she had no doubt every Republic world would follow through on. The important difference lay in the appearance to future worlds of freedom instead of arbitrary law. This might be important to other Rim World, especially non-human worlds, which might in the future consider joining the Republic. In order to win this vote, however, she needed the right appearance. For now, she would remain silent. To speak, would make her appear argumentative. To be silent, would make her appear sympathetic, being teamed up on by the human Core Worlds which might bully the Republic as they did her. It was an unfortunate thing, but she believed that this division now would make a stronger Republic in the future.
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Dav Man'Sell
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Post by Dav Man'Sell on Aug 7, 2013 4:06:11 GMT -8
Georj gave a small, concessional nod as Belf'ima finished her speech.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"I see. Oh... yes. I see."
Georj nodded again, thoughtfully. Part of him burned with rage at the way his words had been manipulated against him - he had not called, or rather, intended to call, them mollycoddled at all. Rather, it had been the impression that he had gained from her, an interpretation of her words rather than his own view. And again, he saw this slipping into the division between Human and Non-Human, a distinction he rather disliked. It was not, in his view, the methods of an honourable person, to try and play on that divide. But the dirty world of politics, just as he had often observed, was full of the underhanded and conniving tactics of double speak and spin, and he had rather walked himself into that trap.
Not for the first time since taking this post, he longed to return to his role in the world of espionage. Much more honest.
He listened as Darma laid out a very simple, and direct, explanation, and a small part of him cringed a little. The response was honest, straightforward, clearly stated - and, as he imagined the Ryloth representative was very aware, considering how quickly she turned his own words about on him, easily twisted and undermined. He sighed, looking down at the display. He found himself presented with two options. The first, step back, allow someone else to wade in to the argument - it was a safer option, at least for him personally and politically, and considering the way his words had been deflected and turned just moments earlier, probably for the bill he was trying to support. The second option was to step up, and to talk again, and to defend the need for a more active defence, despite the gross accusations levied against him by Belf'ima.
In Georj's time within the intelligence services, it had been a point of professional pride for him that he was thought, at least, to know how to play the risks. To know when to play it safe, and when to take a chance. His analytical mind served him well, and when it didn't have an answer for him, his instincts tended to be fairly reliable too. None the less, he found the world of politics to be much trickier to judge in that regard. On this occasion, his informed, rational, and well reasoned brain could offer him no decisive conclusion beyond 'Heck, I don't know!'. His instincts seemed to be somewhat absentee too. He opted to throw caution to the wind and go for it anyway, triggering his pod to lift, once more, to a speaking position.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"Senators... there is clearly still much to be done with regards to the details of this bill. How each world is able to contribute towards it will be, I imagine, open to some extensive debate - and, as has been clearly illustrated by the Representative for Ryloth, who has... quite impressively... demonstrated how easy it is to take the right words and attribute to them an entirely false and misinformed interpretation, it is important that this bill says what it needs to say, and means what it needs to mean, and so I invite you all to join me in offering Vice Chancellor Darma our assistance in ensuring that is so."
He lowered his chin a little, looking at his hands for a moment as he pondered, before, once more, looking back up at the gathered representatives of hundreds upon hundreds of worlds.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"But I also urge you all to recognise the importance of this action. For there is one thing that Representative Belf'ima is very right about;" He spared a small glance in Belf'ima's direction. "I do have a sense of fear. I fear that the 'shining beacon' that the Representative quite rightly states the Republic is, could very well be snuffed out. I fear the principles and the freedoms that we, as a democracy, represent, are under threat once more by the clenched fist of tyranny. I fear what will happen if we allow politicking and bureaucratic web-spinning to delay the very real, and fundamental, need to defend our worlds, and all of our peoples, from Honoghr and Ryloth and Omwat, to Coruscant, to the Five Brothers, and anywhere in between, from those aggressors now scratching at our doors."
Once again, he looked to the Ryloth representative.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"It is true. Not every battle is won by a fleet of ships; it is just as true that not every victory can be claimed by a proud fighting heritage, or every blow struck by a starfighter, or every day saved by a Jedi Knight. And each world will have something different that they can provide to this cause. But we all need to stand, shoulder to shoulder, and every world needs to help protect each other if we are to prevail. Because no battle will be won by softly asking if people wouldn't mind chipping in. No victory will be gained if we do not commit firmly to the idea of a common defence in the name of a common purpose."
The Senator's final comment, he directed to the podium, to the Chancellor.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"We must take action now, whilst we can, before the situation becomes more pressing, and more extreme, more rushed, and less coordinated actions become necessary. We must act now before we are forced to desperately claw back the chance later."
A gentle nod signified his thanks to the Senate, the Chancellor, and to Darma, and Georj sat back in his char, retreating his pod once more to it's dock upon the senate wall.
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Post by Chancellor Cihlbar on Aug 8, 2013 22:35:07 GMT -8
Cihlbar eyes his new Vice Chancellor, though he respects Darma and his ambitions, the Chancellor of the Senate had heard enough.
The now former Senator of Mon Calamari uses a webbed hand to silence all other microphones but his own. With the signature gravelly and aquatic voice that the Rotunda will grow accustomed to hearing, he addresses the Senate. "The session will come back to order, all discussion on the manner of military and taxation for militaristic purposes will be noted and deemed not germain to the current motion."
"I will remind the chambers that the motion at hand is to accept the good system of Fresia into the Galactic Republic with full rights, privileges and responsibilities thereof. Is there a second." Cihlbar looks around the grand Rotunda, and brings his bulbous eyes to bear on the Senators whose pods have lingered from there places of speech; some seemed a bit agitated; others may have given a glimpse of admiration or respect. Cihlbar did not care.
The Chancellor is of an 'alien' race native to an Outer Rim world; but that same world has had the ways and means to contribute a large fraction of the Republic's fighting forces for untold hundreds of years. Mon Calamari has always stood on the side of the Peace and Justice, for the Republic and the Rebellion when need be. But these talks are driving Cihlbar down a very narrow path that he now must tread.
O the joys of being Chancellor.
"The motion is seconded by the Senator from Carida. A motion to add a member system to the Galactic Republic requires a two-thirds vote. A motion to override would require a vote of over 75 percent. All in favor of accepting Fresia into the Galactic Republic." The responses came swiftly in a digital and public vote from each Senators' pod and tallied on public viewers. "With a vote of 74 percent yays, the motion carries. Let me be the first to recognize Fresia as member system, and welcome them into the Galactic Republic."
A break for a large acclamation, before continuing. "Now, despite my better judgement, I will now recognize anyone who would like to second the motion to raise taxes to allow the Rendili Stardrive shipyards to create a new fleet in the name of the Galactic Republic. Perhaps anyone would like to make an amendment to the motion. Or perhaps refuse to move on the motion as a whole to allow a Resolution to passed that will be more in line with the equity and validity of expectations fitting of each member state. . . ." Cihlbar awaited for his not so subtle suggestions to his colleagues. As the newly elected Chancellor, he would have to play things as steady, and as balanced as possible. . .
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Post by Vice-Chancellor Darma on Aug 21, 2013 12:41:04 GMT -8
Noting that there were many objections to my defense proposal, most of which were reasonable, I decided to move it into the appropriate comity for further deliberation and rehashing. It obviously needed a great deal more work. Sighing he answered the Chancellor's question when no-one else spoke up.
As urgent a matter as it is, the defense proposal seems to need more work before it can be asked of all the republic's members. I motion that it be moved to the military planning comity for further discussion and then re-submitted to the senate at a later date.I had hoped that the need for a strong defensive force would outweigh most of the objections and that this would be passed with few changes but unfortunately fate had worked against me today.
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Crom'nen
Member
Posts: 868
Affiliation: loyal only to himself, working with Ryloth and the GR
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Post by Crom'nen on Aug 22, 2013 4:57:15 GMT -8
Belf'ima nodded quietly, then pushed a button that returned the floating pod to it's docking station. Once there, she took a deep breath and let it out slowly. She had done well today, she felt, proving that she deserved to be here among these Senators. She then checked her datapad, silently hoping for a message from Crom'nen. As has been consistent for months now, there was none.
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Post by Chancellor Cihlbar on Sept 1, 2013 14:15:16 GMT -8
The distinguished Mon Calamari Chancellor nods in resolution as the defense bill issues come to a close.
"There is a motion to defer the issue of the defenses of the Republic be investigated by the Military Council. As my prerogative, I will bypass voting and ask if there is any objection to the motion." The Chancellor did not waste anytime searching for an objection; knowing it was a popular motion, it would be a waste of time looking for one-- though some might criticize it as . . . undemocratic. Can't please them all.
"Seeing no objection, the motion passes. Members of the Military Council, we as the Galactic Republic commission you to investigate, catalog the defenses of this great Republic; and submit a recommendation to be accepted or amended to this body."A polite acclamation ensues.
"Regardless of what the planned agenda might be, as Chancellor I am bringing this meeting to a close and urge those who are assigned to committees that you break off and meet and discuss your prerogatives as the general wishes of the Senate mandate."
Go forth, and serve well-- for the Republic." Chancellor Cihlbar depresses a button on his lectern, and a large and ceremonious chime sounds through out the great chambers and the lecturn lowers down into the Chancellor's traditional antechamber. . . .
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Post by Vice-Chancellor Darma on Sept 1, 2013 14:36:35 GMT -8
Vice Chancellor Darma rides down with the chancellor and after a brief conversation of mutual congratulations, Darma excuses himself to go meet with the Military planning comity. His thoughts were slightly disjointed as he tried to process the great responsibility with which he had been entrusted. As far cataloging the republics defenses went, Darma had cataloged most of the non-classified forces already as part of his research done in preparation for the proposed bill. Taking a few deep breaths he ordered his thoughts again and moved off briskly towards the conference room in which the military comity was scheduled to meet.
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Crom'nen
Member
Posts: 868
Affiliation: loyal only to himself, working with Ryloth and the GR
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Post by Crom'nen on Sept 2, 2013 18:15:11 GMT -8
Belf'ima took a deep breath. She had flown through her first session as acting Senator with flying colors. Not only that, she made an impact, a big one. That was her duty. Moreover, it was important for her career, so that others would see her not just as Crom'nen's anonymous aide, but as an equal. With the nobility and grace of a classical performer, she exited the Rotunda.
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Sara Ruluwoor
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Posts: 371
Affiliation: Five Worlds
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by Sara Ruluwoor on Sept 9, 2013 20:21:53 GMT -8
Senator Koronov shook his head slightly as he exited the Senate chamber.
That debate had not gone well at all, then again, politicians were rarely good at collectively deciding anything quickly. The veteran senator counted it as a good thing that his pacifist colleague from Drall had not been present for the last portion of the debate. While Hadrig could be trusted to promote unity, and would have likely steered the Senate away from anything that would promote a human/non-human split, he also would have ripped into Darma's logic about who should pay for the defense of the Republic. That was an ideological battle that would be better saved until the bill was otherwise sound, or hammered out in committee. If not, it would only delay the Senate from other important business that lay before the chamber. And now, with the matter referred to the military committee, he was sure that Admiral Korr would raise those same issues. The federation between the five worlds of the Corellian system already had a working solution to the pacifism of the Drall, and that solution would hold if certain amendments were made.
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Dav Man'Sell
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Affiliation: The Jedi Order - Jedi High Council/Jedi Praxeum of Yavin IV
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Post by Dav Man'Sell on Sept 10, 2013 6:26:11 GMT -8
The gentle sigh that escaped Georj's lips as the meeting went to recess was the only outwardly betrayed expression of his inner storm of frustration. The whole affair had been messy, unnecessarily so, even if a productive solution had come about at the end of it. Part of him felt a rather strong urge to just throw in the towel and give up on politics right now, but by the time he'd stepped from the Senate Chamber into the spiral of corridors beyond its walls, a more level-headed side won out. His Bovorian colleague offered him a sympathetic look, but before he could speak, Georj cut him off.
=Georj Lorrimer=
"I'm fine. Go on, I'll come talk with you later."
He got a small, bobbing nod from the Bovorian as the winged sapient departed, leaving him to navigate the throng of senators and aides alone. Slowly, he picked his way through the crowd, aimlessly trudging. The Military committee would meet in a matter of hours, but until then, he had no demands on his time short of the preparatory paperwork.
He turned the events of the Rotunda over in his mind, considering his next move. Politics was a complex, nuanced, and terribly petty affair, full of complex agendas and selfishness and narrow-minded individuals, but there was also, in it's depths, plenty of similarity with the machinations of the intelligence community. Spies and Senators were not so far removed from one another. Spies just tended to be a little more... direct with their dishonesty. At least, the good ones were.
He stopped in his tracks. Offering a small frown to himself. And then, mind made up as to his next action, he turned, and headed off in a different direction entirely.
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