Fwurg

[Nehket Aeka]

((OOC: This thread is private to the Ardios Eldrilith and Nehket Aeka.))

It seemed to her as if this was becoming a recurring event. Someone would cry foul in the senate, aiming their anger at the Praetorian Empire. This would be succeeded by an answer from the Praetorians that wasn't able to calm them down. In the end, she and the Praetorian senator end up discussing the matter in private, over a drink.

Right now, she was waiting for the chancellor to arrive. Serious accusations have been made against him in the senate, and the outlook wasn't positive.

When he arrived, she greeted him with a nod, "Greetings, chancellor", and let one of the waitresses lead them to a private platform well away from the prying eyes of the press and political rivals.


After they sat down, she looked at the chancellor.

"Well, chancellor. It seems that some of our fellow senators are once again trying to make noises over the production of ... This time it is clear that they wish to profit from this. Unfortunately, they were able to spin it in such a way that you look like you are showing favourtism too your own world, this makes it difficult to let the issue go silent over time.

Maybe we should look at alternative ways to benefit from the situation. What is your take on the whole issue?"

[Senator Ardios Eldrilith]

"It is very clear to me that the Teprogrenaian Consensus thinks they can profit from the business at the cost of the Union. Furthermore it seems that the Unified Republic of Darya is still under the impression that they are actually cooperating with the Teprogrenaian Consensus in this business.

I did not favour the Praetorian Empire and the 800 has already been returned to the Improvement of Unity Fund.

The Praetorian Empire has decided that the Teprogrenaian Consensus has wasted their last favour. We will not invite them for more ministry positions or do any mutually beneficial trade with them.

What are your ideas on the performance as Minister Tassar?"

[Nehket Aeka]

"His recent outburst in the senate is a pity, but his ministerial decisions have been adequate. Which came as a surprise, given the lack of experience their culture has had with warfare."

"It is clear that both the Daryans and the Teprogrenaians are only trying this to make a profit. Thought I must admit that the lack of information, even to the cabinet, has created the appearance of favouritism. It has become clear to me that the Union does not provide competent staff to the chancellery."

"Of course, you could prevent such problems next time around if you acquire a few slaves. Serrah has been a great boon to my productivity, both as Union official and as senator..."

She took a sip of drink.

"Either way. I propose that we turn this shouting match into a benefit for the both of us. I plan to run for chancellor in the upcoming elections, and I hope to have the support of the Praetorians. I also hope to acquire the votes of the Teprogrenaians and the Daryans... So I have a proposal.

I will call for a Motion of Sadness in the senate, to compete with the Motion of No Confidence. After the Motion has been called, you will announce that, to transparently resolve the issue, you will open a new tender for the acquisition of . I am sure that the Praetorian offer will again be better than that of the Teprogrenaians or Daryans.

If I am elected, I will ensure that the Teprogrenaians shall not receive a ministerial position. Though I might offer the Ministry of Defence to the Daryans, to make sure they aren't going to vote during the period. And, it offers you the opportunity to call their actions into doubt should they open a public tender for for the repair of the Union fleets."

Aeka smiled at Ardios as she explained her plan.

[Senator Ardios Eldrilith]

"I might seriously have to consider those slaves of yours. Although my faith in Humans or Twi'leks has never been that big. What other races would you propose for slaves?

I can live with your proposal. I agree that a new public tender is the most transparent solution. The Praetorian Empire will most likely place another offer for the same price.

The Daryans at the Ministry of Defence would be acceptable to me. Although they have reacted a bit harsh lately they have not violated our trust as the Teprogrenaians did.

I will silently support you in your run for chancellor."

[Nehket Aeka]

"I will try to keep the Teprogrenaians and the Daryans in check. Though given their history, the Daryans might not be very interested in a position as core world. Maybe I can entice the Exacarians with the position."

"You should not underestimate the usefulness of humans and twi'lek. Though, based on anatomical differences, I would understand how they would be less appealing. Given you lack of faith in humans, I think that you might not be interested in either caldoss, ehmet or sundarian slaves as either. Maybe you could look into acquiring a veolian, nautolan, togruta or zabrak?

I won't mind informing one or two contacts of mine if you wish to pursue this idea."

[Senator Ardios Eldrilith]

"Your proposal has merit I am willing to consider it.

Zabrak seem to be more barbaric humans and we Praetorians do not have much in common with aquatic creatures like Nautolan.

A Hemet Veolian slave might not be such a bad idea. We Praetorians have respect for Hemet Veolians and all they have accomplished. It would give me a better insight in Veolian culture which could be profitable in the future.

Maybe a Togruta would not be such a bad idea either. What I know about them tells me that they have had a similar origin as us. They were carnivorous predators as well.

How would you propose to proceed?"

[Nehket Aeka]

"I will send a holomail to a few of my contacts to inform them of your interests. As there is some uncertainty about the legislative constructions that would be necessary, it might be a while before they contact you."

Nehket Aeka stood...

"Thank you for your support, senator. I hope to contact you again soon."

...and left.