Faction Integration and an ascension (Diarchy)

[Diarch Reign]

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Location: Bastion | High Council Chambers
Tags: Laphisto @Any Diarchy member

---

After many long talks, and shared conflict, the day had finally come for the Lilaste Order and the Diarchy to become one.

Reign had summoned his first ally to the High Council chambers on Bastion to discuss the final terms and official finalization of the merger.

But the Diarch had another surprise for his friend, and a great honor to bestow upon him. Summoning the high council, he ensured a new seat was present within the chamber.

As the Diarch waited, he though of the hard fought victories and bonds of friendship forged between the Lilaste and the Diarchy.

“This is long overdue”
he said to the empty room

 

[Zara Saga]

Tags: Diarch Reign | Laphisto​

Zara's boots thumped lightly on the polished stone floor as she entered the High Council chamber, her long blonde hair a shimmering waterfall in the filtered light. She moved with the easy grace of someone born to command, a confidence that belied her relatively new position as Archon of Light. While she had yet to fully grasp the intricate nuances of council politics, she approached her duties with a fierce dedication, determined to learn and excel. The whispers about this Lilaste Order hadn't given her much to go on, but if Reign, a figure she respected, saw value in their inclusion, then it was good enough for her.

A brief, respectful bow to Reign acknowledged his presence before she claimed her seat at the sprawling table. With a nonchalant air, she kicked her boots up, the leather creaking softly, and flashed a smile in the Diarch's direction. She was admittedly still working on building rapport. His wife, was far easier to talk to, having forged a deep bond with her. Hopefully, that would change with time, now that she had a more official position on the council.

An attendant, almost silent in his approach, paused by her side. Zara inclined her head slightly and whispered her request for a cup of hot tea, her voice a light melody in the large room. He nodded and retreated as swiftly and quietly as he came. A moment of hushed anticipation hung in the air before the attendant reappeared, a steaming cup on a silver tray. Zara took a delicate sip, the warm liquid a welcome comfort.

She settled back into her chair, her gaze falling on Reign. He seemed lost in thought, the silence in the chamber growing weighty. A small frown creased her brow as she regarded his serious expression. "Come on now, it's not a funeral." she thought, as she sent another smile his way, hoping to chase away the seriousness. She noted the newly added seat at the table, a clear indication that this merger was indeed moving forward. The air was charged with a sense of momentous occasion, and Zara was eager to see how this new alliance would unfold. She took another sip of tea, her blue eyes now fixed on the entrance, waiting for the arrival of their new ally and fellow council members.

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Tags: Diarch Reign Laphisto Zara Saga

Ascending the tower of the crucible and arriving at the double doors to the Council chambers Rellik felt a swell of pride. A new order has decided to test their luck and forge a new path by aligning themselves with the Diarchy. The realization that their message had been heard and understood was an absolute honor. Those who have decided to join them and fight on their side would have the upmost faith and effort from the Co-Head.

Entering the chambers the Diarch would approach the center and place his hand on the round cut out piece of marble flooring from their fathers home. A small sign of respect as they entered to continue his legacy here.

Moving to sit in his normal seat next to Reigns, he nodded his head at Zara. "Hello my Archon, this sanctum is brighter with your presence. Thank you for coming." Smiling as he continued forward and sat down.

He gave his brother a nudge. "While it is just the three of us in here, I would like to say I am beyond happy with a new order joining our fold. I have heard some of Laphisto's accolades and in our early months of reaching out into the stars he was a supporter. To have him fully integrate today is a continuation of his original support so long ago." He rested into his seat fully and awaited the process to begin.

 

[Laphisto]

Laphisto approached the inner sanctum of the Diarchy's High Council chambers, his thoughts unsettled by the unknown reason for his summons. Was it a matter of contract negotiations or recognition for his recent work? He couldn't say. What he did know was that it wasn't typical for him to deal directly with the High Council. It wasn't avoidance—far from it. He simply hadn't had the time. His role as a warrior, mercenary, and soldier left little room for mingling or casual conversations with the leadership of the Diarchy. There was always another mission, another battlefield calling his attention.

The exception, of course, was Diarch Reign . Over the course of his contracts with the Diarchy, Reign had been his primary contact, and the two had developed a rapport of mutual respect. Reign wasn't just a leader to Laphisto—he was a reliable comrade, one who understood the gravity of their shared goal. That connection had been enough for Laphisto, at least until now. He had always figured it was only a matter of time before he met the rest of the leadership, but the suddenness of this summons caught him off guard.

The mention of a surprise waiting for him, relayed by the messenger, only added to his unease. Surprises in his line of work rarely brought good news. Still, his curiosity simmered beneath his stoic exterior. What could the High Council possibly want from him that required such formality?

Keep it simple. Stay sharp. Focus on the task, he reminded himself as the towering doors loomed before him. There was no room for distractions or second-guessing now. He adjusted his stance, straightened his shoulders, and stepped forward. Whatever awaited him inside, Laphisto would face it head-on, as he always had. with a released breath he pushed through the doors and into the room. with a few fellow members of the order following behind him

Zara Saga Diarch Rellik

 

[Zinayn]

Zinayn followed at a respectable distance behind Laphisto , taking in the grandeur of the building. His footsteps, normally silent, echoed loudly in the tall hallway. Though of course, Laphisto being a seven foot tall dragon easily covered up the sounds of the Chiss's gait. As they approached the double doors to enter the chamber, Zinayn took a deep breath and performed a brief meditation to exude pure calm during this meeting that would go down in the history books of the Order. Maybe even the galaxy, but he wouldn't get ahead of himself there.

When Laphisto had told him about the merging last week (or maybe longer; being stationed on Aurora for days or weeks on end made him lose track of time), Zinayn had reacted neutrally. He wasn't ecstatic about teaming up with Sith, but with what he had heard from the High Commander, they weren't like the typical merciless-family-slaughtering Sith Zinayn thought of when he heard the name. He would see though. From what he'd seen, everyone that dabbled too far into the dark side would fully succumb to it's wrath. There could always be exceptions though.

Ahead of him, Laphisto entered the room after squaring his shoulders. Zinayn did the same, throwing back his hood to fully reveal his facial features and usually intimidating crimson Chiss eyes. Maintaining a neutral expression, Zinayn glossed over the people sitting at the table. Two men sitting next to each other, exuding an aura of the dark side. The Diarchs. There was a woman sitting on the side of the large meeting table that had a light aura about her that sort of reminded Zinayn of Alina Grayson .

The two Lilaste Order members were now approaching some marble cut out that was set up above the rest of the floor, that did not match at all. It would have been taken from somewhere else. Some tradition maybe? He would slow his pace casually and wait to see what Laphisto would do. Ignore it? He didn't want to make a terrible first impression. Not in a meeting as important as this.

Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik Zara Saga

 

[Diarch Reign]

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Location: High Council Chambers
Tags: Zara Saga Diarch Rellik Laphisto Zinayn

---

The Diarch was pulled from his reverie by the words of the Archon, he turned to her noticing the smile and playful tone of the words. He had not had much opportunity to interact fully with the woman, it was his wife Nocturne that she had bonded with.
Nonetheless, she had served dutifully and with honor, and she had Reign's respect.

"Forgive me. I was called back to the many battles Laphisto and I have fought side by side. The lives lost, the victories won. So in a way, it is a small funeral"

he said with a light chuckle, smiling back at the woman.
As his brother entered, on time for once, Reign raised an eyebrow in mock surprise, and after Rellik acknowledged Zara, Reign listened to his words.

"Brother, you are on time for once! But in all seriousness, Laphisto and the Lilaste have been steadfast allies in our mission. Bringing them fully into the fold is another way to honor that commitment. To march side by side with brothers."

Reign had just adjusted himself in his seat, when the door opened and Laphisto walked in, accompanied by a Chiss. Standing to welcome his friend and ally Reign bowed deeply before addressing Laphisto directly.

"Welcome, High Commander. It is a pleasure to see you. Thank you for taking the time to join us today. It is a momentous occasion and not something I would have liked to do over a holocall."

He looked next to the Chiss saying

"I do not believe we have been introduced. My name is Reign, along with my brother, we are the Diarchs. Leaders of this humble movement. You are most welcome as well"

He motioned over to the seats at the table, indicating that Laphisto and Zinayn were free to sit so the meeting could begin.

 

[Ova Ziss]

Objective: Diarchy High Council Assembly
Location: Bastion, High Council Chambers
Tags: Zara Saga | Diarch Reign | Diarch Rellik | Laphisto | Zinayn |

Ova bowed to Rellik and Zara as he arrived with the others outside of the High Council chambers. "Archon. Diarch Rellik. Thank you kindly for the invitation. - I guess it's time to honor this war hero, isn't it?"

He saw the dragon-man tense up. Ova clapped a hand on the shoulder of High Commander Laphisto, patting his pauldron comfortingly. "You deserve this, Laphisto. You've done so much."

[...]

The group entered the High Council Chambers. Ova took his seat at the table.

"Let's get this going, Diarch Reign", Ova said in a official-sounding way, even though he had no actual authority. He folded his hands in front of him.

"The High Council of the Diarchy is brought to order. We have reached a quorum of voting members."

"The first order of business today - and our only order of business on this agenda - is Entralla. Its future. Its liberation. Its economic, social, and political affairs. Its leadership. And, its manner of ascension into the Diarchy." Ova read partially from a pre-prepared holopad, which listed the agenda's orders of business and the potential attendees to the meeting.

"The highest-ranking members, of course, will be the first to speak on the matter, and to share the good news--" Ova Ziss smiled, referring to the agenda. He clearly knew the nature of that good news, but he said nothing yet. "--and then - if everyone, uh...concurs... - I propose we break protocol, to hear what High Commander Laphisto has to say. He can have all of my speaking time, at any rate."

"Then, we will open up for comments and debate. I know that I have a lot to say on Entralla, and lots to say about Commander Laphisto."

"But i think we should toss the whole agenda out the window, and let the High Commander Laphisto speak for himself."

The room went very quiet as the participants prepared to hear their official business.

 

[Zara Saga]

Tags: Everyone​

Zara's lips curved into a genuine smile at Rellik's words. "Thank you, Diarch," she replied, her voice a soft murmur that carried clearly through the chamber. "Indeed, a bit of light seems to be what this place needed." She took another delicate sip of her tea, the warmth a comforting counterpoint to the cool stone of the room. As the Diarchs spoke of their anticipation for this new alliance, she nodded in agreement, her blue eyes sparkling with a quiet enthusiasm. This merger felt right, a step forward that would benefit them all.

The heavy doors then opened, revealing the new arrivals. A figure emerged, his skin a striking blue, his features sharp and intelligent - a Chiss, as Zara had read in countless reports. Interesting, she mused, her mind already cataloging the known facts about this species. Then, another figure strode in, a hulking being whose very presence seemed to fill the room, a new species entirely to her knowledge. A curious flicker sparked within her, a desire to learn more about these beings and their stories.

Ova's voice, formal with a calculated cadence, cut through her thoughts. Zara listened intently as he detailed the agenda, words like 'Entralla', 'liberation', and 'ascension' weaving a tapestry of intrigue and complexity. She may not have grasped the full scope of the situation, but Zara knew this: Entralla was vital to their future, a key piece of the puzzle she was determined to help solve. It was clear this day, this meeting, was pivotal, and she couldn't wait to learn how this new alliance would play out.

 

[Diarch Reign]

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Location: Bastion | High Council Chambers
Tags: Diarch Rellik Zara Saga Laphisto Zinayn

---

The Diarch’s eyes flashed with amusement at the governor’s excitement.

He spoke softly, he had enjoyed the man’s presence greatly during the recent times. And if the course held, perhaps there would be a place on the high council itself for the Governor.

“Ova, you are..early.. High Commander Laphisto has just arrived. The Entrallan matter is of dire importance, but let us hold for a small matter of High Council business first.”

He smiled at the older man, such fire, he thought he had. And if what Rellik had shared with him held true, there may be even more purpose for him.

“Please remain seated, this will be good for you to see”

He looked expectantly at Laphisto, waiting for his ally to ask the burning question of why he was here.

 

[Laphisto]

As Laphisto stepped into the main chamber, he paused, sensing a subtle shift behind him. Glancing over his shoulder, he noticed Zinayn slowing his pace, his movements deliberate. Laphisto raised a brow, his curiosity piqued. His eyes soon flickered to a teal blue color as he allowed the Force to flood his perception, sharpening his vision in a way his natural sight no longer could. Through the Force, the world came alive in vibrant currents and resonances—a gift that allowed him to navigate his surroundings with precision despite his physical limitations.

It was then he noticed it: the faint residue of the Dark Side emanating from the marble flooring beneath his feet. The tiles before him weren't ordinary; they held an almost sacred presence, as though they were a relic of some long-forgotten tradition. His taloned feet hovered just short of stepping onto one of these tiles, the realization stopping him in his tracks. He shifted carefully, deliberately stepping around the tiles to avoid scratching or defiling their surface. Respect was key here; whatever their significance, it wasn't his place to tread carelessly.

As the others entered, Laphisto caught sight of Ova Ziss and offered him a respectful nod in passing. His gaze then turned toward Zara Saga , Diarch Reign , and Diarch Rellik . Approaching them, he halted before the High Council, his posture composed and purposeful. With a small bow, he acknowledged their authority before addressing them directly.

"I thank you for summoning me here," Laphisto began, his voice steady yet tinged with curiosity. "To what do I owe the pleasure? Perhaps you have a matter of delicate importance for me and my Order to resolve?"

He kept his tone formal but open, aware that this moment held weight. His focus remained sharp, his teal eyes scanning the gathered figures. Whatever brought him here was more than a simple contract, and he was ready to hear it out.

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Tags: Laphisto Diarch Reign Ova Ziss Zara Saga Zinayn

As Laphisto and the Chiss member of his order arrived Rellik would stand with Reign and do a deep bow in tandem with his brother. Keeping silent for the first portion of the meeting and giving his brother the honor of announcing the days events. Only speaking out quickly to welcome the two guests when Reign introduced him. "Thank you for coming. It is an honor to have you both within these halls."

For the co-head it was important to be seen in the galaxy as a unifying force and one that valued those organizations who had enough of the endless wars of the Sith and Jedi.

Ova's presence in the high council chambers was welcomed. Even as a governor, there were seats available. A welcome guest in this matter; especially with the discussion of Entralla at the end of this immense moment. His spirit shining through with passionate words, yet there was a formal inauguration about to take place that took precedent. Rellik just smiled, lightly laughing as the governor told Reign to begin and that the meeting was in order. Reign gathering the speaker from the chancellorate and reminding him to take a breath every now and then was good for the event in total. A rash push into politics could wait.

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Laphisto Said:
"To what do I owe the pleasure? Perhaps you have a matter of delicate importance for me and my Order to resolve?"

Following Laphisto's words Rellik would re-organize the moment as well. Standing among his peers and directing attention back towards the two guests within their chamber.

"Members of the Lilaste order, we have asked you here today to celebrate your works with our people. You have been invaluable and honest members in our effort to bring peace to the known galaxy. Although I have not personally had the privilege of working with a large portion of your people directly, words of your deeds have traveled among our people far and wide. Those upon the streets of Revelin, to the farthest reaches of our space - speak of your order. We have gathered here today in recognition of you and your people. Long may they pursue the path you have set for them. May both of you live long and free!"

Raising his hand to his heart in a salute like fashion and tilting his head upward to pontify his pose Rellik would pause for a moment. Ending his movement with another bow and sitting down. Waiting for Diarch Reign to put forward his official offer.

 

[Zinayn]

Zinayn nodded respectfully towards Diarch Reign before introducing himself. "I am Zinayn, nice to meet you, Diarchs." As the man motioned to the seats, he was about sit, but decided it would be best to follow Laphisto 's lead. The Chiss remained standing a step behind and to the right of the draconic High Commander as he asked the question everyone had been waiting for. Why were they here? Based on the amount of people that looked very important that were attending this meeting, Zinayn inferred that they were not just here for a job. If they were, then it would be a pretty damn important one.

The Chiss listened to Diarch Rellik 's speech, and about coming together to recognize and celebrate the Order's work. That could really mean anything, from a party to a gift to...who knew? Zinayn smoothed his robes casually as he awaited whatever big news had brought Laphisto out here. At least he tried to. He usually wasn't one to get too excited or really feel any emotion at all. But the anticipation! It ate away at him from the inside like some parasite that grew every second he stood there before the Council.

Zara Saga Ova Ziss

 

[Damos Vakaro]

Tags: Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik Zara Saga Ova Ziss Laphisto Zinayn​

A late appearance was a poor showing for the High Councilor but he still managed to show up and pay respects to the Diarchy's newest arrivals. Damos had no familiarity with the Lilaste Order and considering they were going to be an instrumental part of the Diarchy's plans going forward, they deserved the attention of all members of the council. Damos was on a shuttle preparing for descent. It had been a while since the council had been called to session, and he was looking forward to meeting the Diarch's newest arrivals and anyone else he was unacquainted with. Paper work and shaking hands. Such is the life of Damos Vakaro.

The landing pad had extended for the councilor's arrival with very little fanfare. He wasn't in this job for the theatrics anyway. Being able to use his talents and receive adamant compensation was all he needed and the Diarchs had been gracious to him. He navigated his way from the landing pad to the council chamber, security droids standing at attention as the councilor had passed through the corridor and took an executive elevator the council chamber. He was speed walking his way as he did not want to waste any time to welcome his newest arrivals.

The chamber was before him and the doors had parted, making way for High Councilor Damos Vakaro and his late arrival. He chose not to be a bother as the esteemed Diarch Rellik was giving his warmest regards to the Lilaste order's esteemed warriors. Truly a man who knew how to turn any gathering into a time of merriment.

After his speech, he walked up to the Diarchs to pay his respects before taking his seat. "Forgive me your excellencies." He said as he bowed. "Caught up in the office as per usual."

 

[Diarch Reign]

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Location: Bastion | High Council Chamber
Tags: Laphisto Zara Saga Ova Ziss Diarch Rellik Damos Vakaro Zinayn

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Listening to the speech of his brother, the Diarch smiled softly. Reign had been given the opportunity many times to fight alongside Laphisto and his Order and had seen first hand their skill and honor.

As Damos entered, Reign bowed his head in return.
“Welcome, my friend, thank you for taking time from your busy schedule to join us. Your presence is always appreciated”

He turned then to Laphisto once more. And standing, he locked eyes with his friend.

“Laphisto Div’atori Gix. Your friendship and steadfastness have been one of the few bright spots in a galaxy marred by endless chaos. As our fledgling movement first took to the stars, you were there. A brother in arms and constant and valiant friend. We have bled, and killed together, laughed and drank. Becoming more than friends but brothers with a bond forged in the mud and cacophony of battle.”

He paused for a moment, looking closely at his friend. He knew Laph couldn’t see him in the normal sense, but the Diarch’s presence in the force was positively glowing.

“It is in honor of this, and the myriad of other ways the Diarchy and Lilaste Order have come to help each other and grow, that I have invited you here. I would welcome you, Laphisto, not as an ally. But as a brother and member of this august high council. The chair you sit in, should you desire it, is yours. Let us join together fully and bring true order and peace to the galaxy.”

Reign waited, unsure how his ancient friend would take this, but curious to find out. He also was keen on the Chiss accompanying Laphisto. Searching for his feelings in the force as the announcement settled.

 

[Zara Saga]

Tags: Diarch Reign | Diarch Rellik | Laphisto | Zinayn | Ova Ziss | Damos Vakaro​

Zara stifled a yawn, the delicate curve of her neck momentarily exposed as she stretched subtly in her ornately carved chair. The Diarch's speech was impressive, she had to give him that. Reign always knew how to weave a narrative, how to pluck at the heartstrings of everyone in the room. Brother in arms, bond forged in mud and cacophony… it was all very dramatic, and frankly, a little tedious.

She idly traced the curve of her perfectly manicured thumbnail against the smooth armrest, the soft click the only sound she allowed herself. Laphisto, the blind warrior monk, was a legend, sure. A powerful ally. But this... this felt like a wedding proposal.

Her eyes flickered to the Chiss beside Laphisto. She wondered what that one was thinking. Probably analyzing the structural integrity of the chamber. Zara, on the other hand, was calculating whether the champagne served after this charade would be worth the wait.

Reign was watching them through the force, the air around them thick with his presence. She could almost taste his curiosity, his sincere desire for a closer bond with Laphisto. Sincerity. How utterly… endearing. Zara found herself a little annoyed. She'd rather cut through all this fluffy talk and see what Laphisto really wanted. A seat on the council? Fine. But she preferred a frank negotiation to a heart felt plea.

She let out a silent sigh, her blonde hair shifting slightly. She knew her role. Be the agreeable council member. Smile politely. Agree with the Diarchs. Don't rock the boat. It was easy, expected, and utterly soul-crushing.

Zara glanced at her nails again, checking for any imperfections. Perfect. Just like everything else in this fabricated moment. She allowed a small smile to twitch at the corner of her lips. At least the view was good. And maybe, just maybe, something interesting would happen.

 

[Damos Vakaro]

Tags: Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik Zara Saga Laphisto Zinayn​

It was very hard not to feel the sense of monotony that came from shaking hands and kissing babies with everyone in the galaxy. But Zara Saga had to be crass about it. He could tell by the way she was doing anything but giving one single kark about this... event. If anything it showed that Damos was jealous of his acquaintance's attitude. Damos had to spend most of his early adulthood wearing smiles because stars forbid you didn't smile and wave at a sith lord who your grandfather kissed the boots of when they walked off the shuttle ramp cause if you didn't then you would've lost your whole bloodline. But here such crassness was... ignored?

The Diarchs were more than comfortable allowing non-Sith into their ranks as shown wit the inclusion of the Lilaste Order, it seemed that this was going to be different than what Damos was accustomed to. Force users of all abilities and alignment were welcome under Reign and Rellik's domain. They were also pretty flexible as well. Damos had been isolated for the most part, but was still welcomed by Reign with respect and he wasn't scolded for his tardiness. That meant that Damos didn’t have to have a target on his back if the refreshments for the event were subpar. Especially when you consider that he sourced the best he could find. So if any of his associates disliked what he had procured, at least Damos didn’t have to worry about his life being on the line but most likely a dirty look and a bad first impression for planning social functions.

Damos knew he put a lot of work into this and if the others on the council spat on his hard work then stars help him they won’t be invited to his wine tasting club.

 

[Laphisto]

Laphisto stood silent for a long moment, the weight of Reign's words settling over him like the heavy air before a storm. His teal eyes flickered, not with hesitation, but with thought. The offer was not a light one—he had been called many things in his long life, but never had he considered himself a politician, let alone a councilor.

His fingers flexed at his side, his claws tapping idly against the plated armor of his gauntlet. The honor of this moment was undeniable. The Lilaste Order had fought beside the Diarchy as allies, bled with them, suffered with them, and triumphed with them. He respected the Diarchs, especially Diarch Reign , whom he had come to view as a trusted comrade—perhaps even a brother-in-arms in the way only warriors could understand. But this? This was not a battlefield. This was something far more intricate, and in many ways, far more dangerous.

Laphisto let his gaze sweep the room, lingering on those present—the power players of the Diarchy, the ones who would be his peers should he accept this seat. His vision through the Force painted them all in shifting hues, their presences burning against the cold stone walls. Reign, Diarch Rellik . Damos Vakaro , and . Zara Saga , the high couincil of the Diarchy. and his soon to be peers.

Then there was Zinayn , standing at his side, undoubtedly dissecting every word, every shift in tone. Laphisto didn't need to look at him to know the Chiss would have thoughts about this. Finally, he returned his gaze to Reign, speaking with the same unwavering steadiness he had carried through every war he had ever fought.

"I am honored." He inclined his head, a gesture of respect, but his voice carried the weight of someone who did not take this decision lightly. "You and I have stood together on the battlefield enough times that I know your word is not given lightly. We have fought, bled, and triumphed as allies, and I do not take that bond for granted." His taloned fingers curled slightly at his sides as he took a measured breath before continuing.

"I am a soldier. My expertise is in war, in strategy, in leadership on the battlefield. I am not a politician, nor do I pretend to be one. That being said, I know this: war does not end when the last battle is fought. What comes after—the stability, the order—that is what determines if the sacrifices made were worth it. Governance, politics, these are not the arenas in which I have sharpened my claws."

His tone did not waver, but there was a deep, thoughtful weight behind his next words.

"That being said… balance is not achieved through battle alone. The sword is only as useful as the hand that wields it, and the will that guides it." He paused, glancing toward Zinayn before looking back at Reign. "If I take this seat, I will do so not as a politician, nor as a ruler. I will take it as I am—a warrior, and leader who will see this alliance grow strong. My Order will not falter, nor will my purpose."

His tone hardened slightly, reinforcing his next point."But let me be clear—the Lilaste Order will remain autonomous. We stand beside the Diarchy, not beneath it. We will coordinate, we will fight together, and we will see our enemies crushed under the weight of our combined strength. But my people will remain as they are, as they have always been—free to follow the path we have chosen. We will not be absorbed, we will not be diminished, and we will not compromise our mission. As long as our visions remain aligned, then I will stand with you."

He let those words settle, his teal eyes flickering slightly, gauging the reaction in the room. There was no hesitation in his voice, no room for misinterpretation. "If you will have me as I am, then I will stand beside you, not just as an ally, but as a brother in arms." Then, with a final glance at the room, his lips curled slightly in the barest hint of a smirk. with a touch of dry humor to break the tension "though if you expect me to start making speeches and politicking, I expect a lot more alcohol to be served at these meetings. at the very least, to ease the patrons of my ineptitude."

 

[Zara Saga]

Tags: Diarch Reign | Diarch Rellik | Laphisto | Zinayn | Damos Vakaro​

Zara had almost drifted off, the rhythmic cadence of Laphisto's voice a soothing, albeit monotonous, lullaby. She'd even risked a fleeting glance at a newcomer, Damos, who seemed to be radiating some potent cocktail of annoyance and resentment. Interesting. She made a mental note to discover his game later. But her attention had quickly returned to the window, the distant cityscape offering a far more compelling drama than the carefully staged camaraderie within the chamber.

Then, Laphisto spoke the words that finally snapped her back to full alert. "...the Lilaste Order will remain autonomous."

The words struck Zara like a sudden, sharp chord. Her relaxed posture vanished instantly. Her feet, which had been subtly crossed at the ankles on top of the table, landed silently on the polished floor. She leaned forward, her blonde hair cascading over her shoulder, her previously unfocused eyes now sharp and assessing, fixed on the assembled Lilaste Order members.

Autonomous? The word tasted foul in her mind.

It was sheer arrogance, cloaked in pious pronouncements about 'following their own path.' The Diarchy, through Reign's vision and tireless work, was forging a new era of peace, a unified galaxy under a banner of shared prosperity. And these Lilaste Order monks, these supposed warriors of light, were clinging to their independence, their precious 'autonomy,' as if it were some sacred relic.

They should be begging to be absorbed. To be swept up in the Diarchy's momentum, to contribute their strength to the greater purpose. To willingly relinquish their individual identities for the sake of a galaxy finally at peace. The thought of their continued separation, their stubborn refusal to fully commit, sent a spark of irritation sizzling through Zara's veins.

Her gaze flicked to Reign, a silent, almost imperceptible plea etched on her features. Did he hear the audacity in Laphisto's words? Did he see the potential for fractures, for resentment, in this half-hearted alliance?

She wanted Reign to rise, to command Laphisto to renounce his Order, to embrace the Diarchy fully and without reservation. She wanted him to demand absolute loyalty, unwavering obedience. What was the point of a partnership if they weren't all heading in exactly the same direction?

A frown etched itself onto her otherwise flawless face. The boredom had evaporated, replaced by a simmering impatience. This wasn't a negotiation, it was an opportunity. An opportunity to consolidate power, to solidify the Diarchy's dominance. And Reign was letting it slip through his fingers.

 

[Zinayn]

Zinayn would have bet that any one of the Order's soldiers (especially the guards at Dock Two) would have zoned out halfway through this discussion, thinking that their helmets would make it look like they were actually absorbing every word. He nearly smiled at that thought. The Chiss, on the other hand, was listening intently to every word. Whenever he and the High Commander went anywhere, Zinayn was usually filled in on the necessary background info on the way. That was impossible on their journey here, though, because the dragon didn't know anything either.

So when the real reason behind them being in the meeting room was revealed, Zinayn was quite shocked. His right hand twitched at his side and his eyes narrowed ever so slightly. Reign wanted Laphisto on the Diarchy's council? What would that mean for the Order? Did the Diarch want the Order disbanded? Absorbed? Would Laphisto pass on leadership of the faction to someone else? No, Zinayn thought, Laphisto loved the Lilaste Order too much to just leave it like that.

Zinayn's eyes flicked to the dragon's back, anticipating his response. He listened, closer than ever before at this decision. Taken aback by this sudden offer, he knew that anyone else might get caught up in the moment and accept hastily without thinking about what it meant for their own faction. While Laphisto wasn't any ordinary person, he was not immune to mistakes.

Please think, Laphisto!

"But let me be clear - the Lilaste Order will remain autonomous."

The anxiety dissipated like clouds being burned through by the sun. Zinayn's shoulders dropped and he resumed breathing. However, as his expression returned to normal, the woman at the table seemed ... outraged at the idea of the Order remaining autonomous. The Chiss turned slightly to face her, meeting her gaze with his glowing eyes. The reaction was almost humorous, and he would have cracked a smile if the situation wasn't so tense. HIs initial impression of her was some noble light coexisting with the darkness of the Diarchs, a mountain of life next to a valley of death. Maybe, though, the darkness had been corrupting her the entire time they'd been together, and she wasn't as noble as he'd previously thought.

Or maybe that was just a normal reaction of disappointment and anger and he just didn't expect it based on his first impression of her. Even the Jedi of the Jedi Order would show their emotions. This woman, not belonging to that order, might express her anger more freely. Then again, maybe his first idea was right. He'd learn more about her, especially since it seemed the Lilaste Order would be working more closely with the Diarchy in the very near future.

Zinayn broke eye contact with her and returned his attention to the Diarchs, clasping his hands before him, and preparing to hear their response.

Laphisto Zara Saga Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik Damos Vakaro

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Tags: Zinayn Laphisto Diarch Reign Damos Vakaro Zara Saga

​

Among the many factions of the galaxy, the Diarchys rhetoric was seen typically in two ways. - A direct threat or a dissolving of their beliefs and values in order of submission. Rellik would take this moment to respond to Laphisto and ensure he understood exactly where they landed upon this idea. As the tonal shift finally ignited with the offer from Reign had brought everyone's attention to truly to the matter at hand.

Rising again to speak. A tone resonating with calm yet powerful direction within the fine crafted room. The words not exactly directed at anyone in particular.
"Our order is one built upon our bonds, we celebrate them.

There are not many rules among our people. They go as follows: Do not maliciously harm our own citizens. Do not betray the Diarchy. Fight for the peace and freedom of those under our guidance.

The whills of the force have set you on your path, created your order and brought you here. The composition of music is not complete without all individual parts making the whole."

A small glance was shared towards Zara.

"Where empires and dominance fail is due to the lack of recognition and respect for others cultures and nature. Where democracy fails is due to the allowance of evil actors within the government or party dictating nefarious acts with impunity."

A pause was given to ensure everyone noted his demeanor, Rellik was the Joker of the two brothers but this matter was one of importance. "We offer you participation within one of the highest offices of our people. Their lives, dreams and orders of their own will be in your hands as much as it is in ours. - The Diarchy is freedom, yet if you wish to be a provider and decision maker towards that freedom - a member of our family. You will need to swear to follow and uphold these laws.

You were not asked to come here to kneel. It is to rise with us.

The true test of virtue in this battle for galactic wide peace is not in denouncing titles, oaths or creeds. It is the act of showing loyalty above all. Not to the Diarchs - but to the people of this galaxy that we serve."

As a sermon, it was heartfelt and honest. As rather boring of an event it might have been for everyone involved, it was paramount to the Diarch to ensure all were reminded of why we are here and who we are. We are the hero's of millions. The guide to find a new path beyond the never ending wars of the galaxy. We are the leaders who will take the obscured, beaten down and damned of the galaxy and give them a new hope. Whether they be Light or Dark, Lilaste or Diarchal. If we can not accept those who stand with us, than the war will never end.

As he was sitting down he would raise his head and wave his hands to one of the guards on duty.

"If our friends here accept our offer, ensure to bring some refreshments into the chamber for celebration. Thank you."