The Senate

The Senate of Ikaanos, also known as The Senate, is the governing body of the Republic. It was formerly called The Council until Chancellor Mordecai shook things up about 50 years ago in order to cement his power.

Overview

The Senate is ruled by 24 appointed senators, consisting of Spheremasters, prominent landowners or leaders of Great Houses, either appointed by The Chancellor or through climbing the ranks at The Court of The Legistlators.

Each Senator has one vote and is formally led by The High Senator of Ikaanos, considered one of Ikaanos' most powerful men, swaying a total of six votes in the final ratification round.

In reality, it is The Chancellor who holds the most power; he is High Commander of the Mastersphere and he controls the Ikaanian Marine Corps ("space marines").

Gathering

Every three days, the Senate gathers at the Old City Hall to ratify new laws and pass edicts from The Court of The Legislators, also called "The First Chamber".

Before ratifying proposed edicts and other government contracts, the Senate holds an Audi Homines, which translates to "Hear The Men" - a tradition that dates back to the dark ages. It is a session where landowners and other people meeting the qualifications of oratoris capitonem (where a citizen of Ikaanos becomes a licensed Orator with access to the lower floors of The Senate if he owns enough land, factories, or has a government-issued "declaration of great achievements", per rule Sr-2b (2398)) can sway the support in The Court of The Legislators, where appointed Legislators pass suggestions and bills from the Audi Homines session to The Senate.

After a quick adjournment, The Court of The Legislators brings the topics of the day where the gathering happens to The Senate for ratification.