Private A Bastion Of Order

[Imperius Indomitus]

W A R M A S T E R
INDOMITUS LEGION
Through war, we bring order.
Through strength, we bring unity.

Prologue: The Iron Protocols
From Iron Comes Strength

Diarch Reign | Diarch Rellik

BASTION OF ORDER​

Bastion | Outer System | Imperator Rex

From Zakuul to Bastion was a trip he had done quite a large amount of times when he was a Moff of the Empire, working to bring forth both military and technology under the Iron Sun. It was a cause that, while he pursued various, probably the most reasonable and certainly the one he was able to share and pride himself with. Bastion was a stunning victory for the New Imperial Order and a staggering defeat for the Sith back in the day, one capital, two Empires, two entirely different visions. And today it served as such again. His brief economic negotiations were superficial in nature to maintain operations. Now he was here in order to engage in more meaningful ways.

Other than his journey to Mandalore, he travelled to the Diarchy as an official diplomat, stateman and ruler on a ship that mirrored such status. There was no hostile intention or show of force, it was a merely befitting representation and announced beforehand to not stir any nervousness or suspicion. The large warship came on its own, its shields and weapon systems demonstratively powering down at the front gates of the Bastion System, announcing its intention to talk, not to fight.

Imperius was eager to see more of Bastion again, it had been too long that he actually embraced a visit to the place. It held memories, legacies and futures that were important to him. The Diarchy was an interesting proponent of order, one that the Warmaster did not necessarily see as pursuing the same kind of order he did. Their leaders, the brothers, the Diarchs, were a curious breed of modern times and it would be more than a mere exchange of diplomatic niceties that he was aiming for.

From the hangar of his flagship the large frame of the Upsilon-class shuttle emerged, flanked by two TIE interceptors and headed for the given coordinates. Not riding on his beloved Vehemence today as everything was in the light of official business. Nevertheless he wore his characteristic black-golden armor, a long burgundy cape falling from his shoulders, the black hair neatly tied back as his black eyes observed the pilots doing their duty.

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Ravelin Spaceport VIP Hanger | Bastion
Tags: Imperius Indomitus Diarch Rellik

---

As the Diplomat from Zakuul ship had entered the system, Reign had watched carefully. He was wary of diplomats after the conflict with both the Dark Empire and Empire of the Lost. Their wars had seen the disappearance or collapse of both factions, yet the sentiment of Imperialism would always be there.

However, Reign was a proponent of diplomacy first, sabers later. He would meet with Indomitus again to find out what Zakuul was about. Should they be more amenable to working together and burying the ways of the past, then their nascent faction would find a friend in the Diarchy. But, should they cling to the same vestiges of power that both the Dark and Lost Empires did, then as their predecessors, they would find their end a the Diarchy's hand.

"The visit is expected, keep orbital defenses on standby and transmit coordinates to VIP landing pad 2"

Reign said to the spaceport official nearby, who snapped to attention and proceed to transmit over to their visitor.

Reign had forgone Varlo and the Myrmidons being at his side, this was a diplomatic summit and their counterpart was coming alone. He did not sense a trap as he had when the Lost had feigned diplomacy before.

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Location: Ravelin Spaceport VIP Hanger | Bastion
Tags: Imperius Indomitus Diarch Reign

Onyx - trailed behind Rellik; re-calling events and details from the Diarchy sector that the he was not able to sit within meetings for. Upcoming games, a Chancellorate forum, and lastly, a report coming in about procurement of Kyber Crystals from Dantooine being smuggled through the Hutt Cartel to the Sith Order. The last of which gave the man pause as he looked over the report. - The two were on their way to an important meeting for Rellik specifically. Indomitus - coming on behalf of the people of Zakuul. A place that held a sincere fascination to Diarch Rellik.

With the datapad looked over, he continued on his walk to a reserved landing pad upon the Ravelin VIP Hanger. His brother Reign awaiting already, accompanied by only required staff.

"Onyx, you are dismissed. Go to my personal chambers and grab one of those new blades for me please."

With the droid dismissed he moved to his brother.

"How exciting isn't it brother. I always love getting visitors. Anytime, no matter how well negotiations go - as long as they do not end in blood it is an exciting venture. A sharing of culture and knowledge."

In his normal beige tunic warrior outfit and cloak. Rellik stood with both hands clasped behind him, back straight and a welcome look upon his face.

 

[Imperius Indomitus]

W A R M A S T E R
INDOMITUS LEGION
Through war, we bring order.
Through strength, we bring unity.

Prologue: The Iron Protocols
From Iron Comes Strength

Diarch Reign | Diarch Rellik

BASTION OF ORDER​

Bastion | Ravelin | VIP Hangar

The large craft arrived in the reserved hangar, seeming almost too large at first glace, but it fit right in. The Upsilon was not designed as mere personnel transport, but also as command vessel and had space enough for staff to work and an honour guard to be present. While Imperius had some of his Indomitus Praetorians with him, he left them inside the shuttle as he saw the sole presence of the Diarchs outside, without any companions or warriors to guard them. It earned a silent nod of approval that nobody would ever see.

From the lowering ramp the towering figure of the Hegemon and Warmaster emerged, the cape trailing behind him, a helmet clipped to his belt as he calmly but with large steps approached to duo. His hand rested on the pommel of his trusted sword, Valoris, not in anticipation of combat, but because it was his default pose. Upon arrival in front of them, he offered a slight bow of his head with his clenched fist above his heart.

"Diarchs. I appreciate the audience you have granted me, it is a great honour and pleasure to be back to Bastion in official function." The Pureblood's black eyes briefly glanced around. "I must commend you on your rebuilding efforts, they are impressive indeed."

His voice was entirely without pride or concepts of charm, it was what it said, it was to the point and factual but not insulting or condescending. Simply pursuing facts.

 

[Diarch Rellik]

With his brother at his side - Rellik never felt more secure. Security measures in place be damned. - As the Hegemon came down the ramp - the Diarch stood slightly to the side. Perhaps just a natural reaction to the dominating presence. One foot now slightly in front of the other. Giving way to stronger base.

There was subtle recognition behind the eyes of the man. Along with a hand resting gently upon the pommel of his blade. It did not appear to be a threat but a natural state. Similar to the one Relliks body took for him upon seeing him descend the ramp of his shuttle.

A bow of the head and salute - perhaps tradition or just formality - The Diarch would do the same in kind. With a multi-cultural society such as the Diarchy, percentages won out that it was best to match the greetings of others.

"Likewise, through our intelligence we have seen your dedication to many similar philosophical views and it is for that we deemed good reason to come together." He was not trying to seduce Imperius to joining the Diarchy. Simply being honest in what he was told.

"Thank you for the compliments of Bastion and Ravelin. It is to be our shining jewel per say of our people. Yet, all factors of our governance in some way or another are to the benefit of all of our worlds. It is a unified effort from the highest level of ourselves down to the lowest worker; all based on merit and shared growth. - We have scheduled a room within on of our high rises that will give you an exceptional view of the city, along with being able to see it first hand as we travel."

Rellik motioned his hand down the large hanger to a heavily armored - yet inconspicuous full top vehicle. One deemed to give the man full privacy as they travelled.

"If you would like you are more than welcome to bring some personal guards but they should not be needed. Everyone seeing to this visit is handpicked by either myself or Diarch Reign for their loyalty and trust."

Tags: Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: VIP Hangar | Ravelin
Tags: Diarch Rellik Imperius Indomitus

---

As the being they were to meet descended the ramp, Reign was caught in a moment of unexpected humor as he realized that the shuttle in front of him was very similar to the one that Tertius C. Nargath and the N&Z Corporation had created for Diarchy executive use. Perhaps there could be far more common ground here than initially thought.

As their guest spoke, Reign absorbed his words. No pomp or pageantry, just the simple statement of facts. It was a refreshing change from what he was used to. Flowery words and false promises only got one so far, and Reign for all his guile was a very firm believe in speaking the truth.

"The honor is ours, we thank you for your kind words. I must echo my brother's sentiment, Bastion is quickly becoming the Jewel of the galactic north, and stands as an example of all Diarchy worlds. Dedication to order and unity can see any planet thrive"

As Rellik spoke again, Reign studied the pureblood in front of them, not in a way that could be construed as "Sizing one up" but more in the way of an artist committing features to memory. Reign never forgot a friend.. or an enemy.. and would be sure to remember their guest whichever way it may turn out.

"Your guards are more than welcome, however, this is a meeting among friends. You will be in no danger here, but, with the overall view of the Diarchy from the people of the galaxy.. I would understand any hesitation."

He smiled as he said the last part. It was no secret that the Diarchs existed to tear down the old ways, but any who have interacted with them directly would know they always extend the hand before the fist.

"Bastion has changed much in the past years, thanks in no small part to the work of our people. We would be honored to give you a tour of Ravelin to see how it's splendor matches that of your memory. Should you like it.. if not, we may go directly to our meeting room"

 

[Imperius Indomitus]

W A R M A S T E R
LORD INDOMITUS
Through war, we bring order.
Through strength, we bring unity.

Prologue: The Iron Protocols
From Iron Comes Strength

Diarch Reign | Diarch Rellik

BASTION OF ORDER​

Bastion | Ravelin | VIP Hangar

"Bastion has always been the jewel of the Galactic North, if one can appreciate the beauty of walls, bastions and towers." It was a correction, but it was spoken softly. The Diarchs were new and even though they harbored strength and influence, Imperius was yet to see their true impact on the Galaxy. And as a devoted Imperial, he had to sometimes fake pride to legacy that people such as Sularen paid so much heed to, not out of conviction, but out of necessity.

"The shuttle will suffice for my Knights until our business is concluded, it has the amenities necessary. I appreciate the offer." He returned to their offers with a polite raise of his hand. It was as much a diplomatic as a tactical decision. While he did not expect trouble, it was more important to him to have an escape vehicle protected than himself, he could take care of the latter.

The Warmaster started walking towards the vehicle, his steps calm but long, neither used to slowness nor haste. "I would appreciate the opportunity to witness the planet and capital once more. And, unless your have a full guided tour planned, there will be opportunities to converse. Too much time is wasted in meeting rooms."

"And I would like to open with a question. Where do you see the difference in your strife for order and unity and that which those of Imperial ideology pursue?"

 

[Diarch Rellik]

At the confirmation - the Diarch began the movements to enter the secure luxury vehicle. Answering Imperius as they moved. - An obvious veteran soldier opening the door for the trio and Rellik climbing in first as a gesture to show there were no tricks or perhaps even explosives tied to the vehicle.
Sliding down along the seats with bolted in trays full of glasses and beverages both alcoholic and not - waving his hand as a symbol to both enter and help themselves.
"And I would like to open with a question. Where do you see the difference in your strife for order and unity and that which those of Imperial ideology pursue?"

"I can not say fundamentally that our efforts are not similar in any aspect in regards to the core idea. Perhaps the most defining difference would be not relying on the people of our society to simply behave with tacit consent. Instead, we provide an outlet through our social offices to vent their frustrations and we treat them as if it was a request from a high level administrator within the Diarchy."

The vehicle had begun moving and as soon as the party departed the hangar bay it was clear to see the efforts of the Diarchs upon Bastion up close. A once bustling world of Fortresses, turrets, and towers had been partially re-organized. Now High-rises lined the streets with marketplaces taking up the ground level. - The dynamic of refined Import/export processes has now turned the world from simply an arms manufacturing - defense world into a full society that was on its way to match the likes of Taris or Muunilist.

"If we were to step out right now, we would not be seen as emperor - we would be hailed as family. That market worker selling simple foodstuffs could schedule a meeting with us directly and be respected no matter profession or story. He is here now, a valued member of our society. If he keeps up his hard work, he will be rewarded the same way he rewards us."

Rellik himself poured a drink with the force and brought it to his hand. He was sitting in a slightly forward leaning fashion while still keeping a honored posture.

"We have been called many things. Empire, Sith, Opportunists, and more. In the end we have not found one that fully encompasses our effort. - The empire had a senate, yet was not a democracy. The Galactic republic finds excuses to expand for recourses yet are not deemed fascists. We have had to brand our own form of governance through tempered forge."

His gaze shifting from looking out at the citizens of Ravelin to Imperius himself.

"We have our people, the backbone and our heart. - They uplift us, without them we can not optimize their recourses and ensure a true quality of life that is reinforced by solid understanding of the duty of the worlds rulers. - Work for your world, its inhabitants wellbeing, and continue the growth of the diarchy. - Than we have the Chancellorate, a psuedo senate where all leaders; whether they be in governance, science, economy, or logistics meet regularly to ensure discourse on these matters. - Leading to the High council where the Heads of every major branch come together and converse more. - With our Military, Navy, and Intelligence agency defending us all. Reign and I see the nature of people and set up securities to balance its nature with order, instead of saying we will protect them - we educate them on how they protect us."

Rellik gave a small laugh.

"All societies attempt order and unity in some fashion. You could say we are a representative socialist fascist nationalist imperial autark democracy. Yet none encompass the grand scope we have created, nor ever will. If you ask myself or my brother. We are one multi planetary family. No matter race, creed, or religion. We have one goal - not to uplift the Diarchs - to uplift us all."

The Diarch felt partially embarrassed at what he could deem was a bit of a tangent but it was words he deemed necessary to say. Hoping he had not crossed any lines with his verbiage, its purpose was to create a direct line of understanding that the Diarchy was something new. A society that understood hard work and merit lead to strong and proud representation - which gave all a high quality of life, security, and opportunity.

Diarch Reign Imperius Indomitus

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Ravelin | Bastion
Tags: Diarch Rellik Imperius Indomitus

---

Reign followed his brother into the vehicle, listening intently as he spoke, they were often of one mind in moments like these so at the end of his brother's speech he added

"Look out the window and you will see, what my brother speaks to is the core truth.. the Diarchy is not simply a system of governance. It is a covenant—between rulers and ruled, between soldier and civilian, between past and future."

He watched children playing in one of the many parks they had constructed since coming to Bastion two years ago. His mind brought back to Serenno and the war there.

"Where the empires of old ruled through hierarchy and fear, we govern through presence. I have walked the war-torn streets helping dig citizens out of the rubble and stood in city halls beside market vendors. In both places, I listen, the people out there are not our subjects. They are our brothers, our sisters, our children."

He turned his gaze back to their guest as he continued

"We do not hide behind thrones or titles. If the Diarchy has a throne, it is forged from the hands of laborers. If it has a crown, it is the trust of its people. What separates us from Empires of old is simple.. it is not power.. it is purpose. We do not seek dominion over the galaxy. We seek stability for those abandoned by it. We seek peace not to impose iron fisted will, but to ensure a child knows the sound of laughter not blaster fire."

He grew slightly impassioned then, the dedication that had driven the Diarch's to declare war on essentially the whole galaxy fully on display.

"Our Chancellorate is not a theater of control, like the council of moffs in Palpatine's empire. it is a forum of reality. It gathers minds, not egos. Its decisions shape law, education, industry.. guided not by a thirst for control but by the call to serve. An empire speaks of peace while building war machines. We build security, so peace may follow. And when war is necessary, we fight not to conquer, but to protect our family and all the families of the Galaxy"

He sat back in his seat cooling slightly before continuing

"That my friend, is the difference. It is not our military, our navy.. no.. it is the trillions of voices behind them, the voices of the Diarchy. THEY are the true difference. Our people exist With not below us. The galaxy may call us what it will, Tyrants, Despots, Warlords, Villains.. it matters not. For anywhere in the galaxy where people cry out, abandoned by the false peace of the Jedi to face the will of Monsters.. We will be there"

 

[Imperius Indomitus]

W A R M A S T E R
LORD INDOMITUS
Through war, we bring order.
Through strength, we bring unity.

Prologue: The Iron Protocols
From Iron Comes Strength

Diarch Reign | Diarch Rellik

BASTION OF ORDER​

Bastion | Ravelin | Speeder Craft

He sat down in the vehicle, even with its luxury cushions and premium suspension offering a slight moan towards the weight that the titan apparently carried. His eyes quickly scanned the offered beverages and selected a mere water, pouring it for himself while listening to the elaborations of the two Diarchs, occasionally drinking from it.

He listened intently, his face betraying no expressions, no emotions or reactions to the presented.

"Let me summarise. You are running a benevolent autocracy, compassionate and both pacifistic and egalitarian at heart - but your first act is a declaration of war against anyone who opposes you and firmly establish yourselves as not only its leaders, de facto dictators, but the namesake of this utopian society?"

His eyes calmly shifted from one Diarch to the other. "Because you know better, I assume? Or would you give the baker down the street, who has a great idea of distributing wealth, structure and order a seat at the table, a Triarchy? And no, I do not mean you contemplating his idea, but him acquiring a position equal of yours without your consent. Or does that go against the order you seek to implement?"

There was neither mockery nor arrogance in his tone, he spoke his thoughts as representation of the facts that were laid out before him. Imperius did not indulge in pride and did not take offence as such, so he was not aware of when he was giving it either and usually does not mean to.

[/div]

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Diarch Rellik listened calmly and with a consular fashion of attention. Imperius's observations were not dissimilar to things they had heard before and sometimes on much harsher terms.

"Ah there might be some dispute between the terms autocracy and autark. We are not all powerful as the Diarch's. I do not wish to call it a "Trick" but that is part of the forethinking. We can be voted out, yet we never will. Autark is self sufficiency not singular total control as Autocracy."

Rellik leaned over and grabbed a datapad.

"I had this prepared in case you were looking for some sort of trade deal but it will help in this discussion."

The information upon the datapad was concise and informative. It relayed all important exports within the Diarchy space.

• Bastion – Primary headquarters; hosts DIASTEC's executive command - think tank meetings for Diarchy Armed Forces, Diarchy Navy Command, and Brotherhood.
• Muunilinst – Financial tech and materials mining & minting; home to DIASTEC's currency-metal refinement and economic oversight bureau.
• Mygeeto - Crystal harvesting and processing; source of Nova crystals, lasing crystals, artesian and adegan crystals and exotic tech for Brotherhood-linked technologies.
• Bescane – Heavy industry; site of DIASTEC's high-volume atmospheric converters, bonded alloy mills, and chemical refinement plants.
• Taspir III – Basic mining and manufacturing along with black-site research and development (Azure Station//Shadow Laboratory), Sithspawn weaponization (Pandemonium containment and research center).
• Oben – Deep-core mining operations for high-value precious metals; hosts automated subterranean excavators and orbital export stations.
• Yaga Minor – Naval engineering supercenter; houses drydocks, advanced warship assembly lines, and naval analytics core.
• Dantooine – Main source of Agriculture//Foodstuffs within the Diarchy. Botanical research labs supports sustainable food packaging and exotic compound extraction. starfighter hubs at level five or higher from the days of the Rebellion. Carbon extracted from Blba trees.
• Kynachi – Core processing world for ration synthesis and industrial food standardization for the military; also serves as a logistics depot for border-world campaigns.
• Kalee – DIASTEC Armorworks operates here in conjunction with Brotherhood war colleges to test melee-integrated exosuits and cultural hybrid gear.
• Guiteica and PL-40112-CE-021105– Live-animal transport processing and predatory conditioning programs. Black site Rozzum study (for biological weapons research and control studies).
• Dubrillion – Construction of luxery resorts, High rises with penthouses, Suboceanic Dome Villas, Exotic botanical spas with imported flora and gene-tailored ambiance, Bio-Harmonic Rejuvenation Clinics, and more.

"As you can see we have made each planet - including those not listed - within Diarchy space to be a new self sufficient world via maximixing their natural recourses and importing what they should have outside of that. We have re-birthed the trade routes; such as the braxant run - to make us an Autark society that does not rely on any other planets within the galaxy. There are some issues, as within all things but they are being fixed constantly. This creates loyalty on a scale these worlds have never had."

Rellik knocked on the window, the driver rolled it down and gave a quick reply of "Ten minutes sir" He looked back towards Imperius and continued.

"We are indeed compassionate and egalitarian. We have deemed these as better tools to conform a multi-faceted society to our goals. Now, pacifist - that is only half the story."

Finishing his drink and putting it down on the tray - he relaxed into his seat with his back still straight.

"The people yearn for peace, yet for almost 26k years the republic has never succeeded in offering it, nor the Sith. Their flaw - offering only peace and only war. The Diarchy, offers peace with its first hand and war in the second. With our open discourse of this topic and the history of the galaxy, this sector has taken well to the offer. Another layer to the fine tuning of our society. They respect the goal and I have fought along side them, dying to prove it."

His voice carried a soft bit of pain when describing the declaration.

"The Declaration was a chance, a chance for an entire new galaxy. Yet those indoctrinated with dogma could not see it as anything but a call to war. As stated, we wish to see a galaxy where children are raised to do job's that lifts the universe as a whole - not taken as a child to be a "Warrior of light" - My words were along the line of - We do not judge you for your path in life, you were placed on it before you had a choice, we simply wish to bring us all together to see beyond these endless wars and create a society that rivals the most prolific ever created. As for a call to war. Reign simply stated - (all who perpetuate this endless conflict, those who profit from the death of the innocent, those who sit by in the name of "peace" while atrocities are performed galaxy wide heed this warning, We see you, and we are coming) - Most deemed this as "Serve or die" and that was not the case. Perhaps a mistake in that regard. What it was meant as was - Stop the trillions of lives lost to war, stop the war for profit, stop allowing slavery and genocide in the name of "respecting culture and peace" - and if you do not, we will."

Eyes carried the weight of new leaders, ones whos dreams were seemed burdened by the constant threat of simple ignorance.

"That last line seemed to stir the entire galaxy. Our citizens see the lives we have given them and rallied behind the cause of Peace through war. Or as we call it in old tongue - Pax per Bellum - As for the name Diarchy - it is simply a form of governance, meaning led by dual heads of state. One day we will die or retire. New Diarchs must come and as the family stems from the ground up - they must work together as family and continue the legacy. For them to equal our position they would have to prove to the people they could do the job better. For that, it only means more progress for us and I wish them good luck. There will be new Diarch's one day, that day is just simply not today. Our friend Laphisto would be my direct candidate for replacement."

The Diarch swelled with pride. Despite what the galaxy thought of them - they offered true freedom. Not bound or damned by anything but the threat of some fool coming into power after them or the entire universe deciding they were to be doomed and attacking them in a coordinated group effort. The chance of downfall while they or anyone they promoted was still alive was minimal. Rellik felt it in his soul that this was due to the nature they had fostered over time.

Tags: Diarch Reign Imperius Indomitus Laphisto

 

[Imperius Indomitus]

W A R M A S T E R
LORD INDOMITUS
Through war, we bring order.
Through strength, we bring unity.

Prologue: The Iron Protocols
From Iron Comes Strength

Diarch Reign | Diarch Rellik

BASTION OF ORDER​

Bastion | Ravelin | Speeder Craft

There was no dispute between autocracy and autarky. It was almost amusing to listen to the little lecture as he looked through what the Diarch had prepared. A list of strategic assets and targets, an easy path for classifying the Diarchy's worlds by priority of sabotage, conquest and intrusion and handed out just like that. Imperius did not react.

Family. That was the word that was entirely foreign and in fact, stupid to him. A concept only brothers could come up with who shared a throne. For now. They had their facts right but the conclusion wrong - it was not the Jedi or Sith that have put the Galaxy at war for millennia. The Galaxy was at war before their existence.

"Take our order or face the consequences. It is very straight forward and does not need convolution or pretty words to hide it. You are running an Empire in all but name, your nuances of friendly neighbourhood are reminiscent of the propaganda the New Order used to justify and support its claims and actions." He summarised neutrally. "I approve of your goals and some of the ideas, but I do not see the need to play hide and seek behind false promises of change or - how you said - family. War is inevitable for any galactic power, war is inevitable for any living being. Rather prepare them for it than offer promises of peace that cannot be kept."

He did not offer his personal reason for his view, just a blunt statement. He did not know their true allegiance, they could very well belong to another of the ridiculous Rule of Two spawns or some other Sith concoction that wanted to seize power through deception.

The fact that this one chose a replacement already, either spoke of impossible naivety or some scheme they were further running to fortify their power and influence. That poor fool of Laphisto must be deep in their pockets or built up as a hero for their people, just to either fall victim to their system and plans - whatever they were.

They lacked stability and structure, the Warmaster concluded.

"What are your expectations towards the expansion of the Diarchy and towards the Imperial re-emergence in the East, with some of them being quite adamant of wanting to carve a path to Bastion?"

 

[Diarch Rellik]

The Diarch silently nodded at all of the Warmasters words. He was in agreement. - As far as Rellik was concerned Imperius was intelligent by all means. In more than just war. The speeder had arrived at the meeting center staged for the trio. A large skyscraper building overlooking Bastion. From here you could see the revamped nature of the planet as a business, market, festive based society similar to Coruscant and Taris - still held strong by its fortifications that spread wide shadows across its surface.

"Please follow me Lord Indomitus, here we may speak more... openly."

Rellik led them all through the lobby to a lift that took them to a penthouse suite. The room was near bare except for a meeting table with the emblem of the Diarchy carved within the center. - Rellik himself sat in a non pompous seat. Not at the head but merely at its side in one of the chairs near it. As everyone situated themselves he continued while pouring himself some water.

"I believe you are a man of foresight, like the forbearers of many empires. Coming from Zakuul and being so educated I am sure you know of Tenebrae or Valkorion. The great emperor Palpatine or known as Sidious was his idealistic progenitor. A man wishing to emulate such great success."

Finishing his pour and thoughts he took a sip to refresh himself after so much dialogue.

"For all of their... and your planning, how long did those empires last? The "Eternal Empire" held the galaxy under its thumb for six years. Sidious a mere twenty. In my opinion it was pathetic. So much time spent planning for conquest and none given to what happens once one is ruled. The republic has ruled the core for nearly 26,000 years despite its flaws. We must ask ourselves how."

There was a slight pause, he meant no disrespect in truth but was curious how the words would land. His final sentence as well was not a question but a statement.

"War is inevitable, you are correct and we have foreseen this. I offer you open discourse now that we are fully alone. - These are animals. You have pieced together that the need for ahem \'\"hide and seek behind false promises of change\'\" is punitive and contrived. I agree, yet it is necessary for more than a thousand year goal. We wish to build an empire that spans eternity as all do. If we do not learn from history, we are doomed to repeat it. Same as Sidious with his goal that reached from Valkorion. Six years to twenty to thousands. They have to love it, not respect or fear it. As foolish as that is in truth. The mindless masses of rebellion can overthrow the strongest amongst us. The average citizen knows they must fight for what we offer. Peace through strength. We tell them every day that they are that strength. If they rebelled we would be damned. So we ensure they never do. Do not mistake our intentions, everything has been studied and reconstituted to create something new. You have seen through this, for that I applaud you. Just know that most do not, nor will I ever say so outside of this room. The network, is always watching."

His words were honest. Laced with a change in tone; one that resonated with his posture and facial expression, not just his voice. Now that the truth of their plan was laid bare he hoped Imperius could see it in its totality. There was no way to rely on the citizen to "uphold the honor of the empire" not in a galaxy this large.

"Preferably, I would use Bastion as a tool against the "Imperials" - as they claw and fight for the scraps of a world rebuilt by us we can move unto more important things. As you have seen we hold Muunilist, Scipio, and Mygeeto. The galactic credit, major mining and some of the largest dockyards are in our possession; with force we could crash it all if we pleased. Let them die in waves for Bastion, a world laced in \'\"history\'\" as we make meaningful moves towards power. If that is what they wish than it is nothing more than a pawn into winning the final war. As far as the citizens of the Diarchy are concerned they know the Empire of the Lost and the Dark Empire attacked us and now do not exist. Our war fervor is high, do not doubt that. We plan ahead, for all within this galaxy."

Tags: Imperius Indomitus Diarch Reign

 

[Imperius Indomitus]

W A R M A S T E R
LORD INDOMITUS
Through war, we bring order.
Through strength, we bring unity.

Prologue: The Iron Protocols
From Iron Comes Strength

Diarch Reign | Diarch Rellik

BASTION OF ORDER​

Bastion | Ravelin | Meeting Room

He certainly found the luxurious speeder to be more secluded than a prepared conference or meeting room. He did not expect - rather, he did not care for listening devices, as anything he said was either public knowledge or would be. Secrecy was reserved for his inner circle, not the current rulers of Bastion.

The mention of Valkorion lured forward a physical reaction, a facial expression from Imperius. He narrowed his black eyes.

"Your calculations are quite correct - together the Galactic Empire, Eternal Empire and let us put in the Fel Empire as well - ruled barely more than a hundred years combined. Three realms. One built on order. One on justice. One on compromise. The Republic meanwhile ruled for millennia before it was dismantled and it's successors still run the Alliance."

He moved to one of the windows, half observing his reflection, the fangs, the tendrils, the empty eyes and half looking at what became of Ravelin.

"You believe it is due to love that the Republic endured? Mayhaps it is the case. It was the undying love for the Jedi who had to be put in their place after Revan, Ruusan and the Clone Wars - or the compassion of the mega-corporations that sold to the highest bidders in the Core while exploiting the Outer Rim's people that won the love of the commoners? Or maybe it were the marbled holds on Alderaan, Chandrila and Commennor that inspired such devotion."

His eyes turned back to the Diarch.

"It is not love that rules. It is not love that endures. It is the correct application of power that does. Rebellions are not started by mere workers, insurgencies not organised by peasants. It is nobility, those that have a modicum of power and fear to lose it that oppose rule. Benevolent, harsh, structured or anarchic, it matters not. The Sith Empire under Vitiate endured a thousand years of extreme expansion and extreme repression without falling apart. The Rakatan Empire did last many millennia before succumbing to their own decadence. It is not the lack of love, fear or respect that changes the face of the Galaxy, Diarch Rellik."

He paused.

"It is the Force. It seeks to bring 'balance' - but balance is nothing else than conflict. When the scales tip in one direction, it empowers the other side. Visions, Codes, dogmas are just an expression of dependency, of addiction. Nothing will last, not your benevolently harsh rule, nor the Alliance's corrupt compassion. I have seen the Sith Empire fall , the Republic, the Empire, the One Sith and many more. All will succumb to the 'balance' eventually."

"I am intending to make the time I command and rule count. Vitiate did. Valkorion did. Sidious did. So will I."

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Without expression the Diarch watched as his words gave way to the first change in emotion or stance from Imperius. It was functionally getting somewhere and that is what excited him. He listened and watched carefully. There were hopes that this meeting would be left by both parties in amicable fashion and Rellik had been proven correct in his assessments of the man so far. Storied, proud, and intelligent. It would only be matching these characteristics would this meeting see a fruitful end.

"In this idea of the force we agree. As you spoke of - study of the Rakatans has led me to the understanding that a plague decimated their connection to the force. Annihilating their ability to control their machines and giving way to the commoner to rise up against them in rebellion. Furthermore, it is my belief if the forced wished it; at any moment it would cut us all off and devour us whole, beginning anew. Even the Rakatans were never truly the master of this galaxy. The whills are."

The Diarch gently tilted his head as if hoping Imperius would grasp what he meant. His face never changed experssion, he was not insane nor malicious. He was a scientist and deep practitioner of the force on both sides. During Relliks portion of the Declaration speech he spoke of a chance to make an entirely new galaxy. One where even the whills themselves could not control them. Hopefully Imperius had received an accurate report.

"Alas, let me return to the idealism. Therein lies the struggle of Empires. Syntax has caused more than its fair share of strife for imperials. As you so acutely stated - you know how we operate and we are not hiding it from you here today, it is a necessity to create order and control. If we do not than we give way to the strife's of history that you spoke of. - \'\"Jedi who had to be put in their place after Revan, Ruusan and the Clone Wars - or the compassion of the mega-corporations that sold to the highest bidders in the Core while exploiting the Outer Rim's people that won the love of the commoners? Or maybe it were the marbled holds on Alderaan, Chandrila\'\" - We have offered a "voice" in our chancellorate yet that is not the truth. We set boundaries to such things or else we will have earned the same fate as those who come before us. We can let simply let the Muun bankers run rampant and slavery be prevalent. You ask why we call ourselves the Diarchy and hide behind smoke and mirrors. That is because the galaxy has a long history of Empires, Alliances, Rebels and more. We must create something new to be seen as something new."

Rellik adjusted his posture. Hoping that his words made sense.

"Valkorion reigned in Wild space with a people who knew nothing of the inner galaxies history. He was able to mold them and shape them under something new."

This was the moment where the two philosophies connected. Where Rellik hoped to tie Imperius into seeing what he meant all along.

"He gave them incredible quality of life - here we have no eternal engines and make due through strategic conquest and logistics. He showed them the light and the dark. Their knights were warriors similar to our brotherhood. There was no dogma or creed held higher than the values of the state. - He showed them love. A standard of living and care that no one else ever had. We do the same. His second in command, the high justice watched over the military and administration. We diluted the power while still giving our fair share of a "Voice" with our high council. I hope for you to see how we share the same vision. Just under different diction my friend. As we do not have the luxury of being cut off from the rest of the galaxy."

The truth had been laid as clear as day. Imperius had slowly peeled the layers of the Diarchy to show its true function. It was a state built on many goals but they had to be met with a new image. It was history, war, and philosophy wrapped into one new ideal that could not be defined as any other as it gave way to them all.

"There is power in all of these governments, Empire, Republic, Alliance, Cartel. So I ask what is power. Wealth distribution - the ability to feed your family, protection, quality of life, having your "voice" heard, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The idea of freedom... Perhaps all of these combined makes you feel loved. I hope you understand me. One day the whills will strip both you and I of our power. Of our work and right to rule due to its own selfish plot. - when that day comes we must have cultivated our own separate culture. Similar to Zakuul's before it was found. One that does not rely on the whills or anything else. - I do hope you can see how we can benefit each other in the wars to come, not only against the major factions of this galaxy. You are a smart man Imperius. You have proven as much throughout this meeting."

Tags: Imperius Indomitus Diarch Reign

 

[Imperius Indomitus]

W A R M A S T E R
LORD INDOMITUS
Through war, we bring order.
Through strength, we bring unity.

The Iron March
Order. Strength. Discipline.

Diarch Reign | Diarch Rellik

BASTION OF ORDER​

Bastion | Ravelin | Meeting Room

Imperius' black eyes locked on the Diarch. It was easy to forget that he was not Sith, that his red skin, soulless eyes, fangs and deep markings are seemingly not an expression of the Dark side and its most devoted followers that adopted the name of the species he was. A being deeply connected to the Force, spawned with the Force and strong in the Force. And yet not embracing it. It was almost a physical friction that disrupted the space around him.

"You speak of matters you have not seen, of people you do not know and rulers you have not met. Your ideals, your tolerance cloud your mind. An idealised past that dimly lights your way forward, casting shadows that will make you trip over your own constructs. I can tolerate what you are trying to achieve here, but less than the Sith, the Jedi, even Mandalorians or other Imperials - it will not last. Family, compassion, sympathy do not offer frameworks for order, but for emotional attachment, for clouded judgement."

"The goal must not be to merely prolong existence. Fighting to maintain or worse, to not suffer defeat, is an already lost battle. You are accepting that your lives and rule will not last, why prolong its suffering and slow death if you can rally the influence and power you have and actually achieve something?"

He calmly turned halfway to gesture out of the window and towards Ravelin, Bastion and the Diarchy, his gauntleted hand showing with an open palm.

"You have resources at your hands, you have subjects - you even have followers in your benevolent utopia. Instead of utilising it to pursue the strength and power to change, you are wasting it and the time you agree to not have, on making them happy. On creating a better place that they already would have without you. The common people do not care who sits on the throne or speaks in the Senate, they care for work and food. They will suffer equally under either."

The Warmaster lowered his arm, his dark gaze on the host.

"Evil is a concept envisioned by children and those that do not understand how life exists. Evolution is conflict. Life is conflict. Morality is a luxury for those that can live in prosperity without responsibilities, without powers and without hope to make an impact other than through words. To do what is necessary is natural, it is elementary for survival."

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Rellik did not answer immediately. His silence was the kind that filled the room. A man measuring a thousand futures before speaking a single word.

"Your view is the honest one," he said at last. "Strip away culture, myth, compassion... and you are left with nature unbound. The apex predator."

His gaze narrowed, not with aggression, but intent.

"You say the Diarchy, my brother and I will not last. That perhaps our people will turn, our foundations collapse, our rule expire. You may be right. But tell me, Imperius… do you have plans to transfer your essence and become the next eternal Emperor."

He let the question hang like a blade.

"I learned how to do so as a child. I could host a new body whenever I wish. That is not the point. I need a successor for I seek to move beyond such boundaries. I had hoped you would understand."

His voice lowered, more solemn now.

"We are not simply building for control, or for legacy. We are achieving something greater. As I said at the declaration, we must see beyond this trivial conflict. - There is no death, only the Force. And the Force, as you surely know… is not our ally. It is governed. Measured. Balanced. By those who have made balance a curse. You spoke of the Rakata. Of Sidious. Of Valkorion. We agree that they fell but not because they were weak, but because the scales were tipped against them. A thousand empires undone not by rebellion, not by treason, but by a silent correction. By the Whills."

He took a simple sip of his glass of water. A show of human nature.

"There will come a day when I must transcend this world. Not to escape death, but to confront them. What is the worth of an empire, Imperius, if the moment it dares too much, the Force itself turns against it? What is the point of a godhood that can be taken away with a plague?"

Rellik looked strongly at Imperius. Hoping he would understand. They would either be destined to conquer or damned to fail. The choice was so beyond their hands that the only way to have a chance was to create something so new that it defied all that proceeded it.

"We are not building a throne. We are building a new creed. A new religion. One that does not kneel to the will of the Whills. Our people will not worship us out of fear. They will revere us because they will know we broke the leash. For them. For all. You see an empire. What you fail to see is a rebellion against God. Nobodies, who rose up to be everything. Who changed the endless cycle of war that was coined as "\'balance'\" in favor of true order. True freedom, where ones only limit was what they could muster from their own hands and create."

The Diarch stood. He was ready to offer Imperius any physical deal the man wanted with reason. If Imperius wanted to live in the reality of being a slave to the flow of the force forever, than so be it. Rellik would offer him what he wanted. The Diarch had the means to boost Imperius's power and make him a true force in the galaxy through logistics, finance, industry and trade. Yet, he offered something much more. A place in the new world.

"We do not ask for any vows of obedience. We do not ask you to feed off our plate. We offer an opportunity to rise together. You asked how we differ in ideology and unity from the empires who came before us and I answered. You may choose your place among that mythos. Enemy, Weapon for hire, Tool for coin, - or Ally, brother in arms, trusted friend. I believe you are an incredible man Imperius. I see value in you in any of those avenues."

Imperius Indomitus Diarch Reign

 

[Imperius Indomitus]

W A R M A S T E R
LORD INDOMITUS
Through war, we bring order.
Through strength, we bring unity.

The Iron March
Order. Strength. Discipline.

Diarch Reign | Diarch Rellik

BASTION OF ORDER​

Bastion | Ravelin | Meeting Room

He had no desire or need to correct the man of his error of judgement. Imperius just had transferred his essence, for the first time in his millennia-spanning life. His biological - his birth-body had failed him on Tython and he had taken the new host he had specifically gene-crafted for this purpose. Remade, reforged in the image of what had the potential to achieve what he desired.

"I am Eternal, Diarch. I was born 4,587 years and 248 days ago - so do not presume my age, experience or knowledge. I have not spent a single day in stasis for convenience or other's authority and will not do so."

He spoke with grim determination, authority that was previously lingering in the background, conviction that was in his words, but not his tone before. He was prideless but utterly confident, commanding and utterly without doubt or hesitation.

"The Force will not be bend to your will, its minions will come to crush you as soon as you stir the cage it has set up around you. Jedi, in their righteous violence will pretend to preserve what they do not understand to stop what they cannot comprehend. Sith, in their abundant violence will stop you from taking away their single greatest source of power. Not because it is known what you want to do - but because the Force wills it. You want to topple a 'god'? You have to keep its legions of followers at bay and you do not do that through compassion and veils of benevolence."

"You are new to this fight. Your upbringing or your perceived enlightenment at whatever brought you to the place where you are now, is coated in innocence and idealism. I am not living to see an Empire rise and stay, I am living to see the best possible tool for the solemn duty I have inherited come to be - and then fall. And again. This is not a war of shock and awe, it is a war of attrition that is fought as much with manpower, guns and warships as it is fought with time."

"The Force is a chain, thus I seek freedom."​

"Have you heard these words yet? I thought not. They are part of a creed that is older than you are, forged by those who are fighting this war for longer than current realms claim to exist. There is no solace, no respite for those who march against what holds this universe together."

His gaze is on the Diarch, his black eyes almost echo the fire and steel that runs through his voice and words. Imperius is a purpose, flesh-born and incarnated, he is order, manifested in discipline and will, he is conflict, forged in the crucible of eternal war.

"Your vision is not mine, Diarch. You are new to this game of games and now I know where you stand. Prove your worth and I might consider your cause a worthwhile distraction. Show me your determination, your conviction, your will. The Galaxy is in turmoil, states rise and fall. I will eagerly await to hear of the continuous rise of the Diarchy, not as a loving caretaker, but as the one who does what is necessary. Something stirs, the fall of the Maw, the inaptitude of the Sith, the end of the Bryn'adûl - it will emerge soon and chaos will be upon the Galaxy once more."