Private Senate Machinations | Internal Story

[Monaray Dod]

Senator Monaray Dod sat in his opulent palace, the cool marble floors echoing the sound of his footsteps as he paced back and forth in the grand entrance hall. His long, slender fingers drummed impatiently on the ornate wooden table beside him, his mind consumed with thoughts of the meeting he was awaiting.

As he glanced out of the towering windows that overlooked the sprawling cityscape below, Dod's keen eyes scanned the horizon for any sign of his awaited guest.

The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden hue over the city, bathing it in a warm glow that belied the darkness lurking beneath its shiny surface. Dod's thoughts drifted to the political landscape of the Galactic Alliance, a tangled web of power struggles and backstabbing that had become all too familiar to him.

As a seasoned politician, Dod knew that trust was a rare commodity in the cutthroat world of galactic politics, and he had learned to be cautious in his dealings with others. Just as the last rays of sunlight faded from the sky, the Minister of the Trade Federation Lodd Grimmin emerged from the landing pad nearby, and made their way up the winding pathway that lead to the palace.

"Ah, Minister Grimmin. We have much to discuss regarding the Improved Hyperspace Protection Act."

 

[Lodd Grimmin]

SENATE MACHINATIONS

Monaray Dod ​

"Indeed, Senator Dod. The Improved Hyperspace Act is a crucial part of the Viceroy's plan to maintain our influence given the turbulent times the galaxy is currently facing." The Neimoidian said to the Senator of Cato Neimoidia, as they ascended the grand staircase leading into the lavish palace. The Hyperspace Act was designed with the intention of safeguarding the Trade Federation Merchant Fleet, amidst the growing threat posed by privateers and enemy raiders from various factions.

Alongside this primary objective, the legislation also proposed a hidden provision to expand the Federation's military forces in order to effectively counter any potential disruptions on the hyperspace routes, and establish themselves as a crucial military power within the region of the core.

Numerous company headquarters were presumably destroyed during the intense fighting, leading to predicted financial shockwaves. They, too, would not escape unscathed, experiencing a downturn in their stocks and enduring the adverse effects on their economic might. Although they had made further trade agreements with the Kainate Branch of the Sith Order, to maintain economic viability if such a scenario were to occur.

"Despite the limited support we have in the Senate Chamber, with just a single vote and the dissolution of the corporate bloc in favor of new ideological movements suggested by the Office of the Chancellor, it is imperative for us to seek out potential allies and negotiate with them in order to secure a favorable outcome for this legislation."

Lodd said, moving through the corridor.

 

[Monaray Dod]

Lodd Grimmin​

Dod offered a silent glance as his expression turned, contemplating the daunting task of seeking allies within the Federal Assembly as suggested by the Minister. The Trade Federation's notorious reputation amongst its members made such an endeavor seem even more challenging, especially considering that the Corporate Bloc had all but been dissolved by the current Chancellor.

There was a glimmer of optimism that he might be able to establish a shared understanding with certain individuals within the Assembly and establish fresh partnerships that could prove advantageous for everyone involved. It was conceivable that they might be open to receiving incentives and land in return for their support, even though there was a risk of these clandestine dealings being brought to light by the Internal Rules Committee.

"Minister Grimmin, while the idea may seem promising in theory and rhetoric, it is evident that our support within the assembly is limited as you mentioned. Therefore, our foremost option would be to give concessions in order to reach a proper resolution, giving the opposing party leverage to use against us. If the Viceroy is determined, then I am sure we can find some sorry sap to bribe."

Dod explained, as they finally arrived within the grand lounge.

 

[Lodd Grimmin]

SENATE MACHINATIONS

Monaray Dod ​

"Your point is thought-provoking; Senator, we need to provide something invaluable that does not leave us vulnerable to manipulation by a cunning political adversary." Lodd understood the Senator's point, that giving concessions in exchange for support of the legislation would leave them open to blackmail and political pressure from the other individual.

It would be unwise for the Trade Federation to compromise their integrity for short-term gains that could have long-term consequences, weakening their power and credibility within the Galactic Alliance.

Seated promptly in the opulent lounge, he observed the droid attendants gracefully navigating the lavish palace on Cato Neimoidia. The sumptuous furniture and elaborate embellishments momentarily diverted his attention from the pressing task of garnering backing for their proposed laws, while a chilled glass of wine was graciously presented to him.

"Who amongst the Senators can we professionally guide into supporting us, in your expert opinion?"

Lodd inquired about whether the Senator was aware of any members in the Federal Assembly who could be influenced by wealth and authority, without crossing the line into bribery that might open to them further investigations from the Strategic Intelligence Agency.

 

[Monaray Dod]

Lodd Grimmin​

Senator Dod was seated at the far end of the lavishly decorated lounge chamber, engrossed in profound reflection regarding any undisclosed possessions of the Trade Federation that were immune to straightforward blackmail.

Within their possession lay a distinctive resource capable of potentially influencing certain individuals within the Federal Assembly to lend their support to the proposed Hyperspace Act.

This particular resource, comprising of shares in the trade federation, was ordinarily not meant for public trading, yet they possessed the authority to rescind such a regulation. Minister Grimmin, then shifted the topic towards who amongst the Senators of the Alliance could be influenced to support their cause without being perceived as accepting a bribe.

"Such a question is complicated, as few senators would be open to receiving covert currency or shares without making it known to our numerous adversaries across the galaxy. Although the first person we should approach that could be Kel Se'Taav , the Senator of Abregado-rae. The Bothan may be opposed to our schemes, but he may be able to set aside certain beliefs for monetary returns."

Dod replied, picking up a glass of wine from the table.

 

[Lodd Grimmin]

SENATE MACHINATIONS

Monaray Dod ​

Lodd listened intently, nodding in understanding as Senator Dod explained the reasoning behind the decision. The Senator of Abregado-rae had gained a reputable standing among various political spheres for being a sagacious and equitable legislator, who had implemented strigent measures to curb corporate influences throughout the system, enough to safeguard the welfare of the civilian populace.

The audacious move, although widely supported, posed a significant threat to the Trade Federation's interests in the region. They had anticipated minimal resistance to their plans of establishing trade ports and distribution centers throughout the planet, although such expansion was blocked by the Abregado-rae Government.

"Such a notion is intolerable, Senator. The Bothan strongly opposes any increase of corporate control and authority within the Alliance Government, and would likely paint our proposed legislation has an attempt by the Trade Federation to increase their own profits at the expense of independent merchant guilds."

Lodd explained with disinterest, drinking the contents of the wine glass.