Private The Catalyst Protocol: Final Phase

[Liin Terallo]

This is it. I had asked the two Diarch brothers on seperate ocassions for time. Time to set up my decoy laboratories. Time to thwart the hunters and others off of my trail so that I could further pursue my research in peace. Such efforts came at a price. For although my efforts of escaping most levels of detection; it did not prevent all of them. And despite the exhastion of living a life on the run; I still remained steadfast in seeing my research succeed. And as promised I have no intention of selling it. More than likely I will destroy it all once success has been reached. This is all perhaps just to see if it could be done. And if it can be carried on through my genes. That is if I can find a viable candidate to donate their genetics with mine to procreate. But that is a problem for another time. If I can gain the courage to put in a search for a proper match.

In the meantime, I had another matter to tend to. And that is in securing and building a private laboratory protected by people that I trust. And I know just who to reach out to for an escort.

Greetings Varlo. I hope that all is well and that I have not caught you at a bad time. If you are able, could you please escort me to Bastion once more? I would greatly appreciate it.

Thank you.
~Liin.

And now I wait. I can only hope that at least one of the brothers are on Bastion by the time of my arrival. If there is one advantage to living life on the run; it is that there is not a lot that one must pack. So there will not be a whole lot for me to take on board. And soon I will be able to return the salvaged vessel and droids to Judah Dashiell unscathed. I am certain that he will appreciate it.

Tags: Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik ​

 

[Diarch Reign]

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Location: Bastion | Reign’s offices
Tags: Liin Terallo Diarch Rellik

---

Reign had been reviewing troop movements towards the Diarchy’s western border when Varlo entered the room, much had changed in just the short time that Liin had last been there.

“Hey kid, your friend, the scientist. She reached out on my direct line. Asked for an escort here. With leave, I’m headed her way”

Reign looked at his closest friend with an arched eyebrow, a small smile on his lips.

“Is this a social call? I always thought you were too sour to have a life”

He chucked slightly before continuing

“I’ll be here, please make sure she arrives safely”

With a crisp click of his heels the large black armored man was underway headed straight for the hanger and Reign’s upsilon shuttle waiting there.

He transmitted a message as he set the ship to launch.

“Liin, while I wish this was a social call, I’ve advised the Diarch and I’m on my way. Please transmit your coordinates”

 

[Liin Terallo]

A social call? Surely he jests! I have not had or been to any social gathering in quite some time. It feels like another lifetime ago.

Varlo,

Requested coordinates are attached. Thank you. I look forward to your arrival.

~Liin.

I wonder if he will once again portray my cousin? Such an act was amusing to play out. And in these times sharing a laugh is never a bad thing.

Tags: Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik ​

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Rellik moved through the archive halls alone. The library of the crucible was one of his secondary homes and the place he was directly in charge of. It was his duty to manage the students and what they had access to.

He retrieved a restricted volume Speeches of Kakus and scanned the pages in silence. The weight of his fathers words and his voice weighing on him.

Making a note of several excerpts, he would save them and transmit them to his personal databank. Some would be quoted in an upcoming address at the chancellorate forum.

Than he heard it, a soft pinging on his personal communicator. Diarch Reign wished to see him. So be it, at least it was always nice to see his brother. Even if it interrupted his study time.

With a quick reply line he told his brother he was on his way to the High Council Chambers. Their typical meeting place to discuss anything they needed to.

Diarch Reign Liin Terallo

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Bastion
Tags: Liin Terallo Diarch Rellik

---

Varlo had received the coordinates, this time he went alone, confident that he could be in and out unseen with his charge. He knew that for "Tera" to contact him directly, it was urgent. As the shuttle lifted off towards the sky he pondered what she could have in mind and what the kid had told her.

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Reign made his way from the governmental offices to the High Council chamber atop the Crucible. His brother had informed him of his own meeting with their mutual friend, but to have a summons from her was something unexpected. She had rejected his original offer of safe haven.. perhaps that had changed?

The Diarch entered and took his usual seat, as he waited for his brother to arrive, he let his thoughts wander. There was no doubt by now that Liin knew Reign was a "Force Wizard" as she liked to call them, yet she still seemed to trust him, well as much as she was able..

His heart and mind went out to the woman, attempting to sense if she was in danger, she had been a good friend to the Diarch throughout the years and if anything should happen before she reached the safety of Bastion, the Galaxy would pay.

"Liin, what have you gotten yourself into.."

He said softly to himself.

 

[Liin Terallo]

Varlo had arrived right on schedule; smiling with open arms as he greeted his cousin Tera. But I did not just have bags packed with me this time. For I also had a couple of crates worth of boxes. At least there was room for them in the shuttle. My other items can be shipped at a later date.

Once we were safely inside, I let out a held breath. "We need to move quickly. I do not know how much of a head start we have. But at least I know that your ship is not being tracked. And as soon as we are safely in Bastion, I will explain more. I can only hope that this will be the last time that I have to run. It is good to see you again, by the way. And I thank you very much for this."

Tags: Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik

 

[Diarch Rellik]

The walk from the library to the council spire didn't take long. Rellik moved without hurry, letting the quiet hallways of the Crucible pass around him. A few students offered shallow bows as he went, but he didn't stop. A summons to the high council chamber was not one to be treated trivially.

Up ahead, the doors to the High Council chamber stood open. Two Preservers stood at each side, symbolic in their duty. Ahead of him he saw his brother. A large smile drew across his face as he approached.

Standing upon the marble circle at the center of the chamber he said hi to Reign.

"A summons from the man up high himself!" An obvious joke and poke at his brother. "Please sire, I did not know the trouble for which I cause!"

Rellik gave a bow before rising again with a laugh. "It is good to see you. I feel like it has been months since I saw your face." He moved to take his seat next to his brother. As he did so he looked over at him with loving eyes. "I have missed you brother. Daily, I am glad to see you looking strong. Why have you summoned me though?"

Diarch Reign Liin Terallo

 

[Diarch Reign]

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Location: MULTIPLE
Tags: Liin Terallo Diarch Rellik

---

Varlo moved quick, he was pretty spry on his feet for a man his size. As he got her possessions into the shuttle he listened. This flight was more urgent than the last one, he could gather that much. And she was returning to Bastion, to safety.

good, Reign and Rellik will keep her safe

He thought to himself as he sat down in the pilot's seat. He punched in the coordinates for home and as the stars stretched out in front of him he turned to his guest.

"Don't worry, I've got you now. You're safe with me, and will be even safer with Reign"

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Reign couldn't help the chuckle that escaped him at his brother's antics, he was always able to bring the older man back down to reality.

"I thought I smelled singed beard hairs. I should have guessed you were close"

Reign said, making a joke about one time Rellik had managed to singe both their newly grown beards after a disastrous alchemy experiment in their youth.

"I feel the same brother, but there is war coming and preparations must be made. I regret I have not been as present of late."

There was a touch of sadness behind his eyes.

"I've asked you to join me because our friend Liin Terallo sent an urgent message to Varlo.. asking him to come retrieve her and bring her here. I do not know what trouble she's gotten herself into, but I will not let a friend go in need. We must protect her"

 

[Liin Terallo]

I got to breath a little bit easier once Varlo had us up in the air. Yet all the while I was a bit on edge during the trip waiting for alarms to sound indicating that we've been ambushed.

But no alarms came. We arrived safely and securely. And as soon as we touched down; I felt such relief. So much so that upon exiting the ship I gave Varlo a hug. I am not a person that is a hugger; outside of my own parents. But this is warranted. "Thank you. I appreciate it." And as quickly as my words were spoken I let him go and allowed him to escort me to the two brothers.

And there they were. Together. It is not often that I have an audience with both at once. But it is a good thing for it saves me from having to go through this twice.

I approached them and bowed my head respectfully. "Thank you for receiving me at such short notice. I am now ready to accept your offers. And not a moment too soon. Once allies have turned against me due to my research and I am worried that they may kill me to stop it." Bounty hunters were one thing. But this was next level. Friends becoming threats was not what I was expecting.

Tags: Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik

 

[Diarch Rellik]

The smile didn’t leave Rellik’s face. The joke about their beards stirred a quick breath of laughter from him, though it faded quickly at the mention of war. And of absence.

“I know, brother,” he said, voice gentler now. "We are on the cusp of the beginning of the true trial. The final war."

But as Reign continued, Rellik’s mind followed.

Liin.

Rellik straightened slightly in his seat. His expression composed now focused, yet still open.

“I agree,” he said, nodding once. “She was there at the beginning. When others dismissed us as idealists and madmen. If she’s asking for help now, then we answer. Fully.”

On que, she had entered. The Diarchs face lit up with a genuine smile.

“You do not need to bow to us dear.” he said, without hesitation.

“Those who would turn against you, who once called themselves friends, they’ve made a grave miscalculation. I see you, I know you are a good person. Now, if they seek you harm. They will answer to all of us, together. Let us show them what true friendship is."

Liin Terallo Diarch Reign

 

[Diarch Reign]

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Location: Bastion | High Council Chambers
Tags: Liin Terallo Diarch Rellik

---

Reign’s mood had been dower of late, the clash on Ajan Kloss, preparations for war, galactic instability. There had been little cause for levity, so when his brother laughed, Reign’s smile was genuine. It faded somewhat during the talk of war, but returned in greeting to his friend.

“Liin, I’m starting to think Varlo has a soft spot for you. He barely asked for leave before running out the door to get to you”

he chuckled briefly but the frown returned as she explained her situation more in full. His anger rising he spoke clearly to her, the strength if his conviction evident.

“You will be safe from all threats here Liin, Bastion is nigh untouchable now. As for these allies should they come for you, I will deal with them personally.”

Reign had great disdain for those who would turn their backs on a friend, it was part of the self serving nature of the galaxy he hoped to correct.

 

[Liin Terallo]

Protocol dictates that I should bow, so I do so all the same. I am in their domain, afterall. It is out of respect that I bow; and these two gentlemen are deserving of it.

At Lord Reign's mention of Varlo having a soft spot for me, I cannot help but give a small smile of acknowledgement. "Varlo is a great gentleman. He asked me to message him directly if I needed him, and so I did. You are very lucky to have him in your service." Varlo and I had gotten along quite well. Even while travelling in silence he did his best to ensure that I had felt safe and comfortable. That is something that I appreciate very much.

I let out a cautioned breath while the two brothers relay their promises to me of both safety and vengeance should I come under attack. That too is appreciated, however I know that should there be any violence; I will still shoulder the blame for it.

"Thank you. And I suppose that now is the time for me to let you in on my research. Bits and pieces of my research were stolen in a data breach, so the rumor is out there. So much so that the Black Sun had put a bounty on me for capture. But it is not them that I am worried about.

I am working on creating a serum that gives people like me synthetic Force powers. Now I know that such a thing has been attempted in the past by others; however I believe that I have and can make the serum everlasting.

Such research has drawn me a lot of attention. And my old bodyguard Karlo Kyrr and Strill Securities are among those that want me to be stopped. I worry about them the most, for I know what they are capable of. It is a strange thing indeed to be threatened by those that once protected me. I hold no ill will towards them for they have a right to their own convictions. But still...I find that it hurts."

Tags: Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Rellik had been quiet while she spoke. Not out of doubt. Not out of judgment. But out of respect.

"I've always believed the Force is not some divine river of purpose. It chooses champions and monsters alike, often both in the same breath. The Whills use all force users as pawns in its great game. One that they have convinced the Jedi - finds balance and peace, while also convincing the Sith it makes them free and strong. Both are nothing without the gifted medicholorian counts and agreed consent of action from the Whills. You have played god Liin... but I do not judge you for doing so. Fate, Destiny, the Whills themselves - they are cruel and I applaud you taking your life into your own hands."

Rellik leaned back slightly in his chair, the soft sound of his cloak shifting against the marble floor.

"I won't ask you to give me your serum. I won't use it as a weapon for our cause unless you choose it. You are still safe with us. I meant that when I said it before. I don't fear your research. I don't fear synthetic power. I don't fear the Whills... but I do wonder." His eyes held hers now, not accusing, but searching. "What is it you want from all this? If it works. If you succeed. What do you do next?"


There was no skepticism in his voice. Just curiosity.

Diarch Reign Liin Terallo

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Bastion | High Council Chamber
Tags: Liin Terallo Diarch Rellik

---

Reign leaned forward in his seat as Liin spoke, a faint smiling curling at his lips with the mention of Varlo. However, his interest was piqued when she spoke of artificial force sensitivity. There was no wonder in him mind now as to why she had been targeted, this was a threat to every established order.

But where others saw a threat, Reign saw opportunity. As he listened to his brother speak, his mind worked. Housing Liin was to invite violence, but, violence was at the core of the diarchy. They would weather it.

"You research is a revelation my friend. I wish you had come to me sooner, what you are doing has the potential to break the wheel of Jedi and Sith conflict that has plagued the galaxy for generations. Giving power to the every day person not just some "chosen""

His green eyes were alive with excitement

"Had I known about this before, I would have offered you sanctuary and funding. Security the likes of which you have never known. As I offer it now. You have my full support and if there is anything we here can do to help you, you need but ask."

 

[Liin Terallo]

It is not the first time that I had been accused of playing God. To be accused if mettling in things that should not be mettled with. However I was given a gift of a brilliant mind. What if this is what I am meant to do? What if this is my purpose for the betterment of the Galaxy?

I listen quietly to both brothers in turn. Lord Rellik takes the philosophical stance, while Lord Reign sees my ambition and what it's potential could lead to.

But that is if I give my research up and share it with everyone. I had promised Balun Dashiell that I would not sell it and I still hold true to that. I had told Karlo that I could use this research to also reverse the ability to use Force magic through generations so that the Jedi and Sith wars would cease to exist. Yet all of that thinking is hypothetical as my research is not that far ahead as of yet.

"The playing field needs to be levelled, no matter which way. Only then will there be less chaos and more balance. Maybe then others like me will not be treated or looked down upon as a lesser being. Or used merely as cannon fodder for Force Wizard wars. I hope that the results of my research can be passed on through generations. I will not be around to see the results, I know of that. But I will at least be the catalyst to get it started.

Forgive me for not approaching either of you sooner. It is just such a sensative subject; and with others hunting me for it; I have just grown to be wary of everyone. I am constantly waiting for the next trap to be sprung, to be exploited, triggering me to have to live on the run again. Safety is a virtue that I have not had in some time. It is one of the costs that I pay for this research. Yet I hope that safety can be found here."

Tags: Diarch Rellik Diarch Reign

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Rellik's expression shifted, something between understanding and kinship was blooming behind his eyes. When he stood it was calm and peaceful. He removed himself from his High Council or Diarch chair and walked around to meet Liin face to face. He smiled at her. "I agree," he said, voice low and sure. "The field should be leveled. The Force chooses who is worthy and who is not based on the whims of entities none of us ever asked for. And we are left to worship or destroy one another for their idea of balance."


He took a slow breath.

"You and I, we are kindred spirits in that regard. You took it into your own hands. You refused the lottery, just as I do only in different ways. You should be proud of yourself. You do not need to share your serum. Not with me. Not with the Diarchy. Not with anyone unless you wish it. What matters most to me is that I found someone who sees it too. Who knows the game is rigged and still chooses to try and fix it."

He opened his arms slightly, not the calculated gesture of a politician, but the open reach of a friend, a brother-in-arms. If she allowed it, he would wrap her in a firm, heartfelt hug. "No more traps, No more doubts of friendship or fear. You are among people who share your views. Who share your goals. If you will have us, honor us with your smarts, we would gladly accept you as family and protect you"

Rellik looked to Reign.

"The Diarchy is born of family and it will always be a family. We look out for and care for each other."

Liin Terallo Diarch Reign

 

[Liin Terallo]

My eyebrows rose in surprise as Lord Rellik spoke of us sharing the same views. It was not what I was expecting. And not only that; he also shares the same ambition. The direction upon which he tackles this enormous task, I do not know. But I am certain that I will learn soon enough.

And then he approached me fully. His words and reassurances poured out of him and I could not help but feel comforted by them. It was almost like being in the presence of my own family. And as his arms opened to invite me for a hug, I hesitated briefly before complying. Stepping into him I allowed him to wrap his arms around me. I could feel the tears brimming my eyes, and I swallowed hard to hold them at bay. I did not wish to become a weeping mess in front of them. Already my knees felt like buckling; yet I stiffened them to keep myself up.

"Thank you......"

Tags: Diarch Rellik Diarch Reign

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Bastion | High Council Chambers
Tags: Diarch Rellik Liin Terallo

---

Reign stands as his brother approaches Liin, as Rellik wraps her in a hug, the elder brother notices a slight tremor of emotion. Smiling softly he approaches.

“I offered you protection and friendship once Liin, I’m glad to be able to fulfill that promise. Should you need me, I will be there.. should you feel the breath of your enemies? I will be there.”

He stared into her eyes as she hugged is brother.

“You are in the Diarchy now, and we take care of our family here. Your enemies are mine, and woe be to anyone who comes to our home looking for you.”

He paused again and continued

“I know it is not New Cov.. but here you will not want for anything, you will be protected and cared for. You have a home”

 

[Liin Terallo]

Oh how Lord Reign really seems to want to see me cry. Yet I do my very best to keep the tears bottled up inside. I have always been the one to keep a strong hold of her emotions. Letting them lose would only make one vulnerable; and I am already far weaker in many ways than the majority of people that I know. Adding such vulnerability to that would be devastating and would only give yet another reason for people to deem so little of me.

I release Lord Rellik from the hug and look to the two brothers with appreciation. "Home?" Outside of New Cov, I have never had a home. And never have I travelled so much in such a short span of time than when I first started conducting my research and some of my data was released. And outside of my parents; I have had no other family. Not even a sibling. And of course I have never been courted or married to anyone to share in their family. I am used to being alone even while in a crowded room. Perhaps it was always safer that way.

"I shall do my best to make it my own and not to have my research cause you too much trouble. It has caused me too much already, yet I just cannot give up. It is my only purpose." And it is about the only thing that brings me a bit of joy. "Do you have an empty suite available for me? I do not wish to displace anyone."

Tags: Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Rellik listened as Reign spoke his peace and he was happy. There was no better feeling than helping the people of the galaxy get a bit of the peace they promised. That was the point for everything that they did. To see it in real time was a moment that filled the man with pride.

"That will be no problem at all. We can offer housing with an allowance for everything that you will want or need. If you wish to put yourself into any office or work sector to increase your wealth we can help with that as well but know that it is not necessary. We have a large social fund to aid those in need."

Rellik would love over to Reign.

"It seems you have built some trust with Varlo. If it would make Liin comfortable he could see her to the secure guest housing. As well Ms. Terallo if you would like a security detail that can be arranged. Anything we can do to make your new home more comfortable is no issue."

He stood calmly with his hands behind his back. It would take a special kind of warrior to get to her now if they wanted to do her harm. There was confidence but one could never be to certain.

Liin Terallo Diarch Reign