Guardian Debates! Live TV and action if you're in attendance!

[genpcs]

[ Everyone's TVs will flicker on and to the Genessia News Channel for a Live Special Report. The Show Host pops out from beneath the podium, a cool tenor voice coming straight from him as he addresses the camera. ]

Well heeeeello there everyone! We interrupt your day for a very special report! It's your favorite host with news about the City Guardian Election, live, despite the weather folks! It turns out electronics don't work so well in the freezing cold, so we've had to move our Guardian's debate to warmer pastures! Thank you to our sponsor, Hot Diggity! Toast your houses so warm this winter you'll think you're bread. Though let's hope a little chill won't freeze out any of the candidates, ha ha ha! Or should I say ho ho ho?

[ There's a brief pause before he swivels to a second camera and the camera view zooms in on his face as if he didn't just make the lamest news pun. ]

We are broadcasting live from right here in Genessia City. Many folks are in attendance, including our very own GCPD who are here to monitor and keep the peace. Let's begin the live debate-slash-Q&A you've all been waiting for. Here's how it works: You all come up with questions to ask each of the Guardians, and each Guardian will have the opportunity to answer it to help you decide which of your candidates is the right one for your city. You can submit your questions via text to the CPU and it will beam them to our stage, or if you're here in the audience, head on up to the podium and ask in person! Now to introduce our candidates.

Attleton puts the A+ in Guardianship, but will it be return Guardian Cassian Andor? Or will Chara or Cecil Palmer talk up a storm in the citizen's hearts?

Everglade as always returns with two beautiful ladies, the gorgeous and charitable returning Guardian Grell Sutcliff and a new gem, Emerald Sustrai! Who will shine harder in this debate?!

Fayren keeps its tradition of having the largest number of candidates with four all-stars! Welcome Alexstrasza, Qubine, Winter Schnee, and current acting Guardian Mavis Vermillion! A goddess, a dragon, an ice queen, and a fairy-esque guild-leader. What a variety!

Nova City's coming in hot! Check it out, Mercury Black and Garrus Vakarian trying to stay in office with a dual ticket! Current Deputy Guardian Grievous saying: It's my turn, boys! And a newcomer from a new corner, Gale Reinhard, ready to rock Nova City all night long!

Let's not forget the heart of our cities, the hostess with the mostest, Genessia City! It's the mayor-punching expert, X-Ray and our long-term favorite returning Guardian David Haller!

Let's get started folks! Get out of the showers and into the town hall for this live debate, starting in 30 minutes! You've still got time to pop in, let's go, and don't forget to cast your votes this Tuesday, December 26th at the polls!

{ OOC NOTE: Anyone can reply to this post with a question they want to ask the potential City Guardians. Each City Guardian candidate is tasked with answering any question on this post. No candidate is required to, but lack of participation may affect public opinion of the candidate! Lack of any activity during the election season will disqualify your candidate, however.

On December 26th, the polls will officially go up and each character will be afforded one vote for each city. So if you play 5 characters, you will need to submit 5 IC vote choices; if you only play 1, then only that character will vote. This means you as the player are voting on your character's behalf because it's going to be in the OOC comm just so that we can include instructions. There will be further information at that time as well as a link to a "booklet" with candidate information. For now though, the debate is here! }

Comments

[gastronomics]

How are you going to help protect the citizens who don't have superpowers and can't just hold off or charge forward in an emergency?

[generalgrievous]

There will shelters arranged and if necessary, people who can fight to watch over these areas and innocents.

Once I am elected Guardian of Nova City I will make sure these are in place in advance or reinforce any that are already available.

Then I will hold applications and training sessions for those who want to defend these people to find the most suitable to the task.

[corruptedsave]

In the case of Attleton, we have our neighbourhood watch which if I'm elected I would see to offer any training members of said watch would wish to take part in. So that those of them who wish to help would be able to do so.

For those who don't wish to, or are unable to, partake in such things? I would like to implement safety routes for any evacuation and seeking volunteers from the pedant wearing citizens to assist the locals in case there is a need to have non-combatants leave the city. And of course, improving any already established safe zones and shelters, even using any abandoned land for such purposes.

[Like that amusement park in Attleton.]

[specialist_snowflake]

I would like to increase the number of night time patrols, both in the central town and along the main roads, to deter bandits and other miscreants who would prey on travelers. A guardian or deputy would always be on duty, with others on-call as needed.

In addition, I would encourage those who wish for formal training to seek it out. The Ivory Tower teaches magic to those able to learn, and there are many skilled in various forms of combat who are willing to lend their time and services.

Above all else, notifications must be issued immediately once an emergency situation is detected, in order to prevent the unwary from wandering into a dangerous or hostile environment.

[softlyspeaks]

A fully funded and adequately trained police department with knowledge of how to deal with super powered threats of course!

I propose a team specializing specifically in the management of a super powered or supernatural emergency in all its possible and probable forms, based off of past incidents in our fair city, and the cities around us.

[rulerofme]

I personally created safe houses within each city and personally to each safe houses any and everyone that comes to them. They are adequately stocked with food as well as shielded with multiple methods so that it might be protected against any invading force. In Genessia City, the GCPD help people get to them first and foremost. At times of crisis, I even request that superpowered people help those that can't fight get to those safe houses as well. I and my Guardian Team both go out to help anyone get to them as well as help fight off whatever threat they are facing.

I don't have any say over what the law enforcement of the others cities do, but I could only hope that the Guardians of those cities instruct them to do the same. During the last invasion form the creatures outside of the barrier, these safe houses were used.

[kalmaleader]

In most minor emergencies, I would instruct those who can't defend themselves to remain in their homes. In more extreme cases, such as the spirit invasions, I would instruct them to move to these safe houses created by David Haller, and I would welcome any assistance by the deputies, or anyone else who is able to fight, or transport civilians to the shelters. I have considered asking if a saddle can be crafted for me to transport people personally, so that will be a project of mine.

I, too, would like to establish a team of volunteers to patrol, train themselves, and assist with safety tasks.

[unhappy]

Uh..

[ She thinks. Everyone keeps saying stuff about police and safehouses, which aren't anything new. But she's running out of time to answer so she just thinks of what she would want if she was scared and wanted out of a situation. ]

We already have safe houses and police all over so I'm guessing you don't mean that. Maybe we can get WaysPoints put in at the safe houses and increase the number of points through the city so people can actually get there without having to scream their heads off for five miles hoping the officer they may or may not be with doesn't care they're a criminal or a werewolf or a whatever? I'd just want to wish I was somewhere safe and poof, and that'd be the closest to do that instead of hoping someone stronger than I am finds me.

[whiteas]

In the past, there has been large contention from some of the more.. isolationist parties in the elections and upset that only people who live directly within the city should be able to vote for their guardian, despite that we all have to live here together and with each other and the cities clearly interact to a point that what affects one affects the others.

[ But she digresses. Sorry. Okay. No getting PA about previous election seasons. ]

In light of that ongoing conversation, what are your views on the individual cities roles within the larger ecosystem here? Why do you think it's important to interact with the other cities to increase protection of all citizens? Or do you think that it's important to isolate the cities and only look out for your own backs?

[generalgrievous]

While my main focus will remain on Nova City, as I have stated in my earlier platform as a nominee I intend to develop and maintain a good tactical relationship with all of the connected cities. I already have close ties with Attleton's current Guardian and others shall follow suit.

While we can each concentrate on our individual city's needs we should band together to defeat any greater threats, as well as come to the aid of another city in distress. It would be a mutually beneficial arrangement.

Some may have certain technologies or other skills that would be of use in a crisis that affects a different city. To withhold that due to poor relations would be a mistake.

[actualhumandisaster]

[ Ugh, who let the kriffing Jedi in... ]

Okay. Let's do a little battle scenario.

You and your deputies gravely underestimated your opponent and defeat is imminent. You could escape, but would have to leave your little minions-- Sorry. Your deputies behind to fend for themselves and likely have them face a not very pleasant outcome for themselves.

Will you run, or will you stay, regardless what consequences there might be for you?

[ Is this question specifically tailored for one candidate in particular?

Well, certainly. HI, GRIEVOUS! HE'S WATCHING YOU CRINGE! ]

[kalmaleader]

[Qubine suppresses a chuckle. It wouldn't be the first time he's encountered that kind of scenario.]

I'm not leaving my allies behind. I'll either fight with them, or retreat with them.

If we must retreat, I order my allies to retreat first, and then buy them time to escape before leaving the battle myself.

[campediem]

What's the one thing you respect most about the candidate (or candidates!) you're running against?

...

Hi, Emerald!

[generalgrievous]

I have worked with the current Guardians of Nova City for many months as we previously were deputies together and they do their job well enough, even if they needed two to do the job of one. I respect their attempt to continue with this responsibility now that the decision is in the general public's hands.

[innocent_royal]

Do you believe enough is being done for the children, the sick and the old? Do you believe any more could be done for them?

[orlokbutterfly]

More can always be done for them. [Not that that's really an issue directly for Guardians.] Just as more can always be done for those without homes and people less fortunate, it's a matter of working together with other city representatives to ensure everyone gets what they need.

anonymous

[inthedriversseat]

q for Cecil Palmer: what's your stance on pineapple on pizza?

Others can answer too if they like!

[subparkour]

Punch people who put pineapple on pizza.

Next question.

[unhappy]

I have a question for X-ray. [ he's not going to shut up so she's going to say it. ]

A being with powers surpassing a god rips your arms off in the middle of a fight. How do you solve problems now that you're unable to punch your problems away?

[subparkour]

Laser vision.

Duh.

Next question.

[whiteas]

[ She's back! It's entirely possible Weiss is just getting back in line after her questions. ]

What limitations do you feel should be implemented on the Guardian's office to protect citizen's rights? Are there any current restrictions you believe should be loosened?

[subparkour]

Citizens got nothing to be afraid of if they're not breaking laws! Guardians shouldn't have to walk on eggshells to do their jobs!

[initia_nova]

We all know the ways each Guardians and city reacts when a crisis strikes. But once that's over, no one offers any assistance to those affected by issues like trauma, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Don’t you think some sort of measures to offer support should be implemented? If so, what kind?

[shewhoislife]

Absolutely. The mental well being of my city is just as important as their physical state. Unfortunately my powers do not extend to that, and given my station, I am not the most knowledgeable in how mortals cope with trauma.

[She's seen how dragons cope, and that is NOT GOOD.]

As such I would gladly allocate funds and training to make such resources available to all, not just citizens of Fayren, but to any that needed them.

[k2so]

This question is for candidate X-Ray...are you aiming to waste everyone's time every time you open your mouth or will you actually deliver some well-thought answers to the concerns of the citizens?

[Kay has zero chill also he can spot a mile away when Cassian is starting to lose his patience.]

[subparkour]

I answer questions from my gut. Don't like it, don't vote for me. Seriously, how are you gonna call me out on wasting time when you're wasting everyone's time with this question?

Get outta here.

Next question.

[wonderland_vogue]

I suppose this is more aimed at the Everglade campaigners than anything else, but the rest are free to comment if they wish.

How do you propose to continue working with the undead and deceased communities of the city? Admittedly, I've come to this party late but I remain curious on if the status quo will remain or if there's ideas on how to further this... integration of sorts between the living and non.

Also, for that matter, have either of you considered how to help those that feed on things that are less.... tangible? Things such as thoughts, emotions, feeding that needs to be done in a particular kind of matter versus something you can easily obtain such as blood? What if said thing needed to be fed upon is less than savory to the masses? Such as fear, suffering, that sort of thing?

[shewhoislife]

My views on the undead are not charitable. My world has suffered greatly due to the marches of the Lich King and his Undead Scourge. The Forsaken - those undead who broke from the Lich King's command - have proven themselves to be instigators of conflict at the best of times.

[She really doesn't like Sylvanas...]

Were this my world, I would sooner see the undead returned to the peace of death, than suffer their resentment of the living. ...However, this is not my world and I would take each instance on a case-by-case basis, and consult those who have been here longer than I.

[erinoah]

[ You might have briefly seen Noah, but today she looks... different. Less blue and slimy for one thing. Only her ears are the same. ]

Forgive me, I am new to this... but for the candidates, I have a question.

Let's say a crisis so great happens that sacrifices have to be made to bring things back into order. Are you willing to do this? What contingencies do you have in place to make sure that it never comes to this, and if it does, who can you trust in your place? If you regret your decisions, what will you do?

[ Totally not speaking from experience, no way! ]

[subparkour]

Any hero worth his cape is ready to sacrifice themself if it comes down to it. Hell, I've almost bit the bullet a few times saving the city back home. You can't know everything that's gonna happen, but if you call yourself a protector of the people you gotta live and die by it. As far as trusting someone in my place, that's what deputies are for, right?

[bright_imperius]

Hmmm, this is really a question for, well, everyone.

[ Pauses, looks a little hesitant. ]

I see a lot of talk about the separation of powers, and, I've read up now on what's happened in the past, especially with Everglade.

But, at the same time, there've been a lot of complaints and criticisms - even from you as you campaign against one another - about not enough being done, not enough power or control being taken, to keep disasters in check and damages to a minimum.

So, I suppose my question is -

How do you define the limits of your power, as a Guardian, if you should be elected?

Is there a line you wouldn't cross? Are there circumstances where exceptions would be made?

[softlyspeaks]

We are elected officials. Our job is to work for the will of the people. Our line is drawn where the people's lines are, and it is not within any of our power, nor should we ever attempt, to cross that.

We do, after all, have our beloved voters to thank for us even being in office to begin with, and our gratitude should be shown with catering to the needs of the many!

And with an all you can eat pizza buffet.

[unhappy]

Question for everyone! What do you think about requiring all candidates to put your other sources of profit, including jobs and businesses, on hold for the duration of your election if you win instead of splitting your attention between guardianship and a business empire and running charities and basically a bunch of stuff that means your not doing your job while you are doing that?

[subparkour]

That's a way better question than the stupid one you asked before! Being a hero is a full-time commitment, and I think being a Guardian should be too. If you got time for another job, why aren't you using it to protect the city?

[ghostofrazgriz]

Are there any new systems, equipment or other improvements you may be considering to upgrade the effectiveness of the Guardian offices?

No, I'm not referring to strictly weaponry.

[generalgrievous]

I wish to improve the system of deputies and incorporate some elite forces. As to cost, these may be on a voluntary basis or otherwise privately funded. These may have their own special skills, with or without weaponry, depending on the individual.

I intend for this to result in more patrols which in turn will prevent any trouble or otherwise it will swiftly be dealt with.

[om_nom_namur]

Question for everbody: Bein' a Guardian sounds like a pain in the ass, an' that's 'fore y' factor in the paperwork. So what's drivin' y' t' wanna be Guardians in the first place? Like, what's it t' y'? Why y' wanna win?

[specialist_snowflake]

[This is a question she's honestly tempted to skip, since it delves into more personal matters she's not willing to expose to the public at large.]

The desire is not a personal one. Simply stated, General Ironwood -- my superior officer -- had intended to run as guardian and appoint me as one of his deputies.

[Which she never understood; she could serve him in a far greater capacity as a captain of the royal guard where she had some sway with the courts. But lol she's not going to voice anything that sounds like she questions Ironwood's judgment.]

As he is no longer present in this world, I am running in his stead, and acting on his personal and professional goals to protect the people. In that, I strive to uphold his ideal as my own.

[whiteas]

There are a few of you who have just recently arrived and haven't been here to see even a single term of Guardianship completed. For those of you who fit this qualification, what makes you think you are a better choice than someone who's been here for longer and has more experience and, frankly, attachment to the cities they are bidding for the title of protector of?

[specialist_snowflake]

[It's like Winter's having her arm twisted into publicly expressing her disapproval. Normally she wouldn't mind (and clearly hasn't in the past), but she is trying to remain civil.]

[Trying.]

In one particular instance, gross irresponsibility.

[Failing. But for now that's all she'll say, despite the strong urge to launch into detail.]

In the other, I find the term 'better' to be ill-fitting. Our approach to handling the guardianship is simply different. Some may find one method better-suited to their personal interests, some may choose the other. I may not have lingered here as long as some, but I am far from ignorant of the state of affairs Fayren currently faces. I am well-versed in the terrain as well as the variety of races who dwell within. Feeling attachment toward something one protects...that is only natural, and will come with time. Nonetheless, 'attachment' is not a necessary requirement to fulfill one's duties and responsibilities.

[bornunlucky]

I'm new here. Tell me, what's the most important part of the job as far as you're concerned?

[generalgrievous]

Being a Guardian is about protecting the citizens of your city. This is not about politics or ruling, it is about protection and seeing to it that the people are defended against threats.