Fwurg

[The Lifebringer Clans]

The lockdown of the Senate building comes as a complete surprise to Clans' Senator and her staff. After reports of a possible military retaliation arrive, their office turns into a beehive of activity, with everyone scrambling for more information. Some minutes later, an aide recalls an interesting detail: "Weren't the Suma involved in dealings with the Slave Rebellion?" A request for information is sent to the Suma delegation, who are probably locked in the same building.

[Senator Acehtoo of the Miomanian Colonists]

"Fellow Senators,

I have called this emergency meeting in response to the events that have led to the temporary lock-down. Rest assured that the Senate Building is secure and we are currently not in any danger, however the lock-down will remain in effect for another hour until everything has been swept by security.

I can report to you that at 19:41 this evening, a shuttle-craft was shot down over Unity, causing it to crash-land in the Union City Opera at 19:45. The shuttle contained a single male Twi'lek pilot, who is currently being treated for his injuries, but who is expected to survive.

We have determined that the shuttle was shot down by a Corvette who's transponder code is registered to the Oruba-clan, which is one of the Hutt Families.

A Star Destroyer and escort were dispatched and we currently have the Corvette, which bears the markings "Grand Kukluba" and its crew in custody. It is being subjected to a full scale investigation.

At this time, I would like to propose the Union contacts the Hutt Families to demand an immediate explanation for this clear violation of our sovereignty."

Chancellor Acehtoo looked around to the Senators hoping to hear their opinions and questions.

[Mercury]

(Admin note: I merged these posts here, but the order is slightly messy due to the posting times - apologies for this)

[Senator Acehtoo of the Miomanian Colonists]

In response to the questions from the Lifebringer Clans, Chancellor Acehtoo offered some background information with permission from the Suma delegation.

"Yes, it is correct that the Senator for the Principality of Suma, as well as the Minister of Foreign Affairs from the Federal Republic of Bisidn are currently in Sector 16 -9 for talks with the Slave Rebellion."

[Nehket Aeka]

"I agree that we should demand an immediate explanation, but I fear it is most likely the Hutt Families will deny involvement in this violation of our sovereignity. Personally I would like to know under how this corvette had the chance to engage a shuttle near Union City in the first place. It appears to me that the current protective measures might not be enough for the future?"

I also think that my fellow senators will agree with me that on a disclosure of the subject of the talks in sector 16 -9. The current situation appears to be related.

And lastly I would like to know whether we still have communications to the outside world during this lockdown. I wish to send word to my homeworld about the current events -- I can not leave the emperor uninformed about this."

[The Lifebringer Clans]

Senator Vestiik nods to the Veolians: "The Veolian Senator raises many valid points, and we are in agreement on all of them. Additionally, we posit our main concern is information. What is known about this Kukluba or his clan? What of the Twi'lek pilot? Is he conscious? Can he be questioned?"

[Senator Ardios Eldrilith]

Ardios Eldrilith: "The Veolian homeworld should still be reachable by holonet relays for communication i guess. When all communcation on Union is locked down as well i would like to know this. I am wondering if the attack might have something to do with our communication with the Core Hegemony..."

Ardios halts for a moment.

Ardios Eldrilith: "Are the Hutt Families aware of our current trade negotiations with the Core Hegemony? Does this threaten them? The reason for this terrorist attack must be found."

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

"Fellow Senators, " the Lady de Montrève started as she took a stand to speak.

"While the Veolian Senator raises valid points, we feel that the point brought before us by the Preatorian Senator might even be of a more pressing concerning. If the Hutt are aware of our dealings with the Core Hegemony, and have subsequently chosen to act upon these early negotiations, which they managed...

Then i can't help but consider the possibility of a possible mole or spy within the Union, or the delegation which was sent for the first meeting. This is a matter of genuine concern. "

[Senator Acehtoo of the Miomanian Colonists]

"All Senators have access to a secure channel to communicate directly with their government. This line of communication is always available, even during lockdown.

This special channel can only be blocked by a specifically equiped military vessel, which requires very large amounts of power. Only a full scale invasion would warrant the expenditure of so much power.

To be clear, the lockdown only blocks regular communications - as Senators you should not be affected, though some of your staff may have difficulty depending on their security clearance."

Chancellor Acehtoo explained as she texted one of her people.

"Regarding the presence of the Hutt Corvette, the 'Grand Kukluba' had a visa to travel through Union space, and indeed had a permit to bear arms, though it did not have permission to charge or fire these weapons.

I have just been informed that the 'Grand Kukluba' was still waiting for permission from flight control to enter the Unity gravity-well and that communications between it and Unity flight control were lost shortly before the incident. Two X-wing fighters were sent to escort the 'Grand Kukluba', but were not in time to prevent it from firing on the other vessel."

Chancellor Acehtoo paused a moment to check her communication with her people.

"It is at this time not known to us whether the Hutt are aware of our communications with the Core Hegemony. We are currently setting up communications with the Hutt Families.

To ensure the security of the Union, we have sent fighter escorts to join all Hutt vessels carrying weapons that are currently in the Unity system and we have temporarily suspended all departures and landings of Hutt ships.

Additionally, as mentioned, the 'Grand Kukluba' has been secured.

Security officers are currently interrogating the crew, more information about this will be shared as soon as it becomes available. I have personally instructed the Security Chief to ensure this."

she paused a moment

"Regarding the Twi'lek pilot, I am informed that he is still in treatment and is currently in surgery for secondary injuries. Once this is completed, he shall be debriefed. We have taken fingerprints and DNA samples to help in identification.

I can inform you that he is not a Citizen of the Union and that he has lived most of his life in the Outer Rim Territories, which includes all of Hutt Space."

"Finally, on the talks in Sector 16 -9, we are currently in contact with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Senator of Suma, communications with them will be opened for the Senate momentarily."

(( OOC: after people had a chance to respond to this post ))

[The Lifebringer Clans]

"The Lifebringer Clans are of the opinion hasty action would be unwise. We reserve judgement until further information is made available. We look forward to any answers the Minister and the Suma Senator may provide, as well as the official response from the Hutt Families and the Hutt vessel itself."


((ooc: Am I correct in assuming popular opinion is that Hutt are brutish slavers, and that Twi'lek are a slave race ?))

[RemcoSwenker]

Gergory Konev observed the going around of the senate room for a while he was waiting for a return message form the president. "The iron lady is right." he muttered to himself.

"The Unified Republic of Darya agrees with the good senator of the Lifebringer Clans. We would like to avoid conflict for now as Darya has grown quite tired of it. We trust that the truth will be revealed." after his short word he sat down again letting the play by play go on in the senate room.

[Senator Acehtoo of the Miomanian Colonists]

((OOC: that is correct - the Hutt do slave raids in their territories and generally keep many slaves both for their personal pleasures as to work their mines and factories. The greater majority of the Twi'lek race are slaves, though they are far from the only race enslaved by the Hutt.))

"Fellow Senators,

I have received word from the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Senator of Suma. In the past weeks, they have been in extensive discussions with the Slave Rebellion. Topics of their talks included:

* Humanitarian aid in the short term
* In the mid-long term, setting up trade between the Union and the Slave Rebellion

The Slave Rebellion has also asked for more direct military assistance. However, the Minister of Foreign Affairs has stated that the Union at this time has no interest in involving its troops directly in the war between the Hutt Families and the Slave Rebellion.

The Senator of Suma furthermore reports:

' The Slave Rebellion faces significant problems - its population, including many of its leaders, is largely illiterate, and though there is enough food available, living conditions are primitive and proper health-care is simply not available. The entire economy is focussed on the war with the Hutt, which means there is little left to improve the condition of the population.

Ironically however, most of the people I have spoken to indicate that though their condition is bleak, it is actually better than before the war, when they were still living as slaves. I suppose it helps knowing that you live in squalor to aid in freeing your peers rather than to make a rich and cruel master even richer. '


At this time, the Minister of Foreign Affairs furthermore reports that no agreement has been made. He asks if the Senate would prefer if the Senator of Suma and himself returned to Union space.

Do any of the Senators have a question for the Minister?"

[The Lifebringer Clans]

The Clans' Senator: "We have no questions, Chancellor. The Lifebringer Clans support the course the Minister has taken in negotiations. Whether to continue negotions or return home is something we leave it up to the Minister's own assessment of the situation and the risks involved."

[Nehket Aeka]

"I have one questions directly for the minister, and I do have some questions regarding the situation and the Union's position on slavery in general," started the Veolian senator.

"I would like to ask the minister to find out the trade interests of the Slave Rebellion; this way we can assess whether such a trade relation would be beneficial. If they are only interested in weapons, this is the same as involving ourselves in their war -- lets hope they have the foresight to want for healthcare products, construction materials, consumer goods and such. I also wish to know what the minister's opinion about the Hutt attack is -- does the minister think the attack and his diplomatic mission are related?"

"Regarding the situation I would like to know whether it is standard policy for the Union to render humanitarian aid, or are there other motives in play as well?" The senator carefully thought about her next words, and continued: "Do not take this the wrong way, the Veolian Commonwealth supports the humanitarian aid efforts and truly wishes that something can be done to aid the population of the Slave Rebellion; We are curious about the choice of timing and the lack of information about this to the new members of the Union."

"And lastly, I wish to know the Union's position on slavery. As some of you may already know, the Veolian Commonwealth does not view the keeping of slaves as a bad thing -- if the Union's position on slavery is significantly different this might warrant further discussion."

[Senator Acehtoo of the Miomanian Colonists]

"As I understand from the Minister, the Slave Rebellion is interested not only in weapons, but also in any and all technological materials, including Exotic Matter Devices, Vehicles, Electronics and ICT Technology. Additionally, Food and Healthcare Products are in high demand.

The Minister does not believe there is a direct relationship between the attack and his presence, though there may be indirect relationships contributing to the situation."

She looked at Senator Nehket a moment:

"The Union has left the decision as to the legality of limited forms of slavery to its member-worlds. I suggest we leave the discussion of the morality of slavery outside of our current debate - it is prone to start heated debates with flaring tempers and given the current crisis, we need stay calm. Should you or any other Senator feel the need to discuss this topic further, I suggest doing so after the crisis." ((OOC: in another thread ))

(( OOC: If nobody objects, I will continue with the Hutt speaking with the Senate on Friday - should people feel that they still wanted to speak with the Minister or about slavery at that time, they may do so in parallel ))

[Senator Acehtoo of the Miomanian Colonists]

"We now have a live link with the Hutt Families, and they have given us the following statement"

A holo image of three Hutt appeared

"Senators of the Union, my good, good friends!

Please allow me to assure you all that this entire event is one large misunderstanding! The Hutt Families would never do anything to risk our friendship with the Union, and the hoooorrible actions undertaken by these... these criminals are in no way authorised or supported by the Hutt Families!

They are rogues... independent contractors... bounty hunters... Not supported by our government at all!"

The other Hutt nodded in support.

"On behalf of the Hutt Families, we hereby denounce them, cast them out as... as one would a parasite! You may do with them as you wish, kill them, imprison them... We want nothing to do with them!"

As if on cue, each of the Hutt made a gesture of denunciation, one going so far as to pluck an actual parasite out of his tail and tossing it away.

"There is just this one minor thing..."

"Really minor" a second Hutt added as he made the -tiny- sign with his fingers

"If you could deliver to us the Twi'lek criminal you have in your custody... we would be most grateful.

You see he is a wanted criminal, a terrorist. We put a bounty on his head. He attacked our cities, and killed our people... our... our children!

Naturally we will compensate you handsomely for his delivery! The Union likes trade does it not? We will give you much good trade!"

The Chancellor looked at the Senators, curious to hear their views.

[[ OOC note: You can choose whether you reply to the Hutt directly or only to the Senate as you please. By default I assume you speak to the Senate only, so if you want to address the Hutt directly, please note this in your post ]]

[The Lifebringer Clans]

The Clans senator remained pensive for a long time. She was reminded of philosophical discussions in her youth, in which scenarios like these were spun out, and where one's responses led one to discover one's place in the ethical spectrum. And there was her problem. She was to decide on behalf of all Clans, but clans were fractured precisely along these lines. Most opposed slavery, the Uplift Clans first and foremost. A few splinter groups fondly remembered the 'good old days', in which creation equaled ownership, but they were a minority. Nearly all Clans abhorred violence, especially after the catastrophe involvement in the wars had brought them. Again, Uplift Clans were the exception. They would likely condone whatever this Twi'lek had done to its former masters. But on this question, is violence a valid response to slavery, the Clans would be split.

And then there were the external issues. Upsetting the Hutt Families could be dangerous. Komès was invested in trade with them, and would likely support extradition. The Veolians... well, she'd heard of their history regarding slavery.

With a weary sigh, Vestiik raised herself, addressing the Senate.

"The Lifebringer Clans reserve judgement, pending a full investigation into these matters. We would like to see the Hutt crew questioned, their ship's data core dissected, and the Twi'lek questioned as well. We would ask patience of the Hutt Families while this investigation is carried out."

Privately, the Senator poses the following questions to her aides:
- Does the Union have an extradition treaty with the Hutt Families? Is there any case of the Union extraditing an alleged criminal to another faction in the past?
- What is the range of punishments available, were the Hutt bounty hunters to be found guilty of the attack on the shuttle?
- Can the Twi'lek be tried in the Union for potential crimes committed in Hutt space?

[Senator Ardios Eldrilith]

"The Praetorian Empire has to insist on questioning the Twi'lek first before we talk about delivering anybody to the Hutt. We ask the Union to continue her own investigation, we need the facts to make the right decision. The Lifebringer Senator has a valid point here, did the Union deliver alleged criminals to other power centers before?
Furthermore the Hutt are willing to compensate us handsomely, this should be looked in to... this can not be just a criminal if you ask me."

[Nehket Aeka]

"The Veolian Commonwealth seconds the course of action suggested by the Lifebringer Clans. I suggest that this Twi'lek is put under constant protection. If the Hutt put a bounty on his head these so called 'independent contractors' might have another go at the Twi'lek; it would be a shame if he disappeared before we hear what has him rushing to Unity."

"Furthermore," Senator Nehkat Aeka turned to Senator Eldrilith ," I think we should not let ourselves be swayed by talk of handsome compensation. I think that the extradition of a single individual will not bring with it any compensation, the Hutt are clearly aiming for something bigger. I wish to know more about this Twi'lek and his actions before there can be any talk about extraditing the victim of an attack, especially since there is no evidence suggesting this Twi'lek is involved in illegal activities according to Union law."

After this rather directed remark, the senator turned towards the Chancellor: "Chancellor, the Veolian Commonwealth would like to be informed about any treaties we have with both the Hutt Families and the Slave Rebellion. We are particularly interested in any extradition treaties and treaties pertaining to slavery."

One of the aides of the senator handed her a small note.

"We also wish to know the legal position of the system of Unity. Under what jurisdiction does it fall, is it possible to prosecute for infringement on union member laws, and what procedures are avaiable for the judgement of those commiting an offence under Unity law? Since the system of Unity is intended as neutral ground to all Union members, we are interested in any laws pertaining slavery on Unity as well -- but this might best be discussed at a later time."

[Senator Acehtoo of the Miomanian Colonists]

"The Union does not have an extradition treaty with any foreign power, including the Hutt Families." the Chancellor explained. "Though we have delivered and received captured criminals to and from the Hutt Families before, especially pirates.

We do maintain official diplomatic relations with the Hutt Families, through several members, especially the Holy Heimgolian Theocracy and the Confederacy of Excaria. Beyond the current negotiations with the Slave Rebellion, there are no diplomatic relations between the Union and the Slave Rebellion.

There has been no direct exchange of Ambassadors between the Union and the Hutt Families, though individual Hutt Families and individual Union Members have made such exchanges."

Though now mostly resolved, the Union, like the rest of the galaxy, had had extensive problems with pirates.

The Unity 'system' falls has its own laws and is subject to all Union laws as well. Unity offers no sanctuary to refugees or slaves itself, but the various embassies are sovereign territory of the member nations, and their laws apply there.

Firing ship-based weaponry at a vessel in the Unity 'system' is punishable by up to fifteen lifetime-percent imprisonment plus the confiscation of the ship and cargo. If anyone is severely injured or killed during this action, additional punishment can be added to this.

The Union has no laws to punish foreign nationals for crimes committed outside of Union territory."

The Chancellor looked around to double-check if she had missed anything.

[Senator Acehtoo of the Miomanian Colonists]

"Fellow Senators,

Word has reached me that the medical treatment of the Twi'lek pilot has been completed. He is currently recuperating in a Bacta tank and is being questioned by security officers.

A report is expected shortly, but while we wait are there any specific questions the Senators would like asked to the pilot?"

[The Lifebringer Clans]

"The Lifebringer Clans trust in the ability of the security forces to do their job. Apart from the questions related to the incident here on Unity and the pilot's past in Hutt territory, we are interested in the Pilot's motivations for entering Union space and Unity space in particular.

Additionally, the Lifebringer Clans hereby pledge our surplus trade capacity, as well as our surplus Organics and Food production, as relief aid to the Slave Rebellion. If the Minister of Foreign Affairs reaches an agreement for aid with the rebellion, we will make our surplus goods available to the Union efforts. If an agreement is not reached, but any of the Union's larger economies undertakes humanitarian efforts on their own terms, we would like to join them, and will defer to them in how to best utilize our resources to this end. "

[Nehket Aeka]

"We are also confident in the security officers abilities. We will wait until a first report has been made before formulating questions with regard to the Twi'lek individual -- I assume that he will be kept in protective custody for the time being."

[Senator Acehtoo of the Miomanian Colonists]

"The security forces have finished their primary investigation and report the following facts:

• The Twi'lek is named Evan'iri and originally hails from Ryloth. He is currently a Colonel in the armed forces of the Slave Rebellion
• He admits to being behind several bombings on Hutt targets, but claims these to be acts of resistance against slavery, rather than terrorism
• He claims to have been in the Union territories to negotiate trade, but does not wish to divulge who he was trading with
• He claims the latter refusal is because he fears the Hutt might attack his trading partner next
• He has requested we contact his government so that they may arrange taking him back into their custody

Additionally, we have been in contact with the Slave Rebellion. They confirm the identity of the man and also request their citizen be returned to their care.

The security forces note that Evan'iri is a high ranking officer in the forces of the Slave Rebellion and might be a valuable source of intelligence if questioned about their military details, should the Senate so decide."

[Nehket Aeka]

"As far as I see, the Twi'lek pilot is as much a victim of this attack as the visitors of the Opera hall. The commonwealth is of the opinion that this man should not be treated like a criminal. Not only did he stay within the boundaries of the law, as defined by the Union, he is the witness of an attack upon himself and the Union. Therefore, the commonwealth deems it both uncivilized and damaging to our reputation with the Slave Rebellion to extract military details from this man.

On the point of not divulging his trading partner: has it been made clear to him that, if his trading partner is a citizen of the Union, any attack on his trading partner will be seen as a serious offence against the Union? If not, this should be explained to him -- the trade he was negotiating might have been the trigger for this surprise attack.

Furthermore, since the Twi'lek pilot is not a suspect but a victim he is to be released into protective custody and allowed to go about his business freely. If need be the Veolian Commonwealth will offer the Twi'lek asylum. That way, any further 'unsupported attacks by independent contractors' will be prevented."