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|image1 = File:EmpireInsignia.png
|caption1 = Insignia of the Empire
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|conventional_long_name = Empire of Achenar
|common_name = Empire
|capital = [[Capitol (city)|Capitol]], [[Capitol]], [[Achenar]]
|demonym = Imperial
|government = Hereditary Monarchy
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|language = [[Universal Language]]
|currency = [[Credits]]
|area = 4,
|population = ~1,652,046,151,015
|formed_from = [[Republic of Achenar]]
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}}
{{Quote|When our ancestors departed Earth, they asked themselves: which of our achievements represents the best of humanity, that we may bring it with us to illumine the darkness? The Federation, embroiled in a world of contracts and petty bickering, chose their Constitution. They placed their trust not in man himself, but in an imperfect work of man.<br/>But my ancestor - your first Emperor - was wiser. He knew that the best achievement of humanity was humanity itself. There was more wisdom in a single nucleotide of his noble DNA than in all the Federation's written texts.<br/>That same wisdom still guides us now. We need no dusty documents to assert our right! We are human, born to rule... and the universe awaits the firm hand of our governance.|[[Emperor]] [[Trasken Duval II]], undelivered draft speech<ref>''[[Elite Dangerous]]'' [[Knowledge Base]] > The Empire > Introduction</ref>}}
The '''Empire''', officially the '''Empire of Achenar''', is a [[:Category:Galactic Superpower|galactic superpower]] and hereditary monarchy.
Although a peace treaty has existed between the Empire and the [[Federation]] since 2382, there have never really been any peaceful relations between these two old enemies. The Empire despises the Federation and everything it stands for, and vice-versa.
The Empire is less technologically dependent than the Federation, choosing to keep and employ [[Imperial Slavery|slaves]] for the work which machines would usually perform in other parts of the universe. The Empire is also a proponent of human [[cloning]] rather than [[robotics]].<ref name=":1" />
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Imperial society is based on a ''cliens'' system - much like ancient Rome - and strictly stratified, with people being able to move between strata based on money, patronage and [[influence]]. It values both status and honour very highly. Whilst it is acceptable to flaunt wealth, treating people well is a question of honour - and this includes slaves. Having an unpaid debt is seen as utterly dishonourable - an honourable Imperial citizen would sell themselves into slavery to clear a debt they couldn't otherwise afford.<ref name=":1" />
The Imperial Law is seen and enforced by [[Imperial Senators|Senators]] who themselves are above the law. They can order executions, and can even kill people themselves, though sometimes (rarely) they may be held to account for their actions by the [[Emperor]]. In the Empire very little is illegal, but many things are frowned upon, like excessive use of narcotics.<ref>[http://www.elitedangerous.com/galaxy/gs-empire/ Galactic Superpower Empire - Galaxy - Elite Dangerous]</ref><ref name=":1" />
Due to the Empire's obsession with wealth projection,<ref name=":3" /> Imperial design puts an emphasis on opulence, style and quality with no expense spared.<ref name=":6">Official The Art of Elite Dangerous art book, August 17 2016</ref> This is apparent in their cities, ships by [[Gutamaya]] and clothing of [[Imperial Citizen|Imperial citizens]].
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== History ==
===Departing the Federation===
{{Quote|The origins of the Empire date back to the colonisation of the Achenar system in the middle of the 23rd century. Marlin Duval was a wealthy woman from Earth, who, disenchanted with their administration and authorities, set off with her own colonising fleet to Achenar 6d because it was so far from Earth. Her leadership ended abruptly when her brother Henson oversaw a flying 'accident' in which she perished. The democratic government changed abruptly to one of strict imperial rule and from then on the family assumed leadership. Female children in the family were prevented with genetic techniques, such was the hatred of Marlin Duval's principles and vision of a world in peace. This restriction was gradually phased out over the years, but the succession of Emperors has remained along the male line until recently."|Tourist
[[File:Empire_Capitol_Achenar_6D.png|thumb
What is now known as the Empire began around in the middle of the 23rd century, with the architect of peace and an anti-Federation activist [[Marlin Duval]].<ref name="GalnetBirthOfAnEmpire">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/559fe59e9657ba1b5a47e853
The colony started off extremely well, and an administrative council was formed with Marlin at the head, in order to fairly distribute power throughout the colony. As the colony expanded, so did the council, with a determination that any and every situation was dealt with via peaceful methods and dialogue. This arrangement worked very well indeed and the colony continued to prosper.
===
The original government of Achenar was recorded as a democratic republic, elected senators representing the people and a council of high-ranking politicians acting as an executive body for the republic. Marlin Duval, as the founder and a popular political figure, retained a great deal of political power in this period, but enjoyed only a position of influence within the council rather than the absolute leadership of later Emperors.
In 2296, only four years after the founding of the Republic of Achenar,<ref name="EE" /> Marlin Duval was killed in a shuttle accident, in which her partner and children also perished. No evidence ever surfaced linking her brother Henson to the incident, but even the most loyal Imperial historians openly accept that the event was suspicious in light of his subsequent actions.<ref name="GalnetBirthOfAnEmpire" />
Assuming control of the senate as Marlin's closest living heir, Henson Duval quickly disbanded the ruling council and installed himself as leader of the Achenar system's colonies, transforming the Republic into the Empire.<ref name="EE" /> Citing the continued threats made by the Federation and their defencelessness in the face of a military invasion, Henson began a campaign of propaganda rejecting his sister's pacifistic ideals. Such was his passion and power of persuasion that he succeeded in converting the capricious colonists to his doctrines in a remarkably short period of time.<ref name="GalnetBirthOfAnEmpire" /> Henson Duval was formally crowned as the first [[Emperor]] of the Empire in 2320.<ref name="LineD">Tourist Spot 0159, "The Line of the Duvals"</ref>
===
Imperial historians record that many native species were found on Capitol during colonisation, which the colonists took great care to protect as best they could. Among these species, unbeknownst to the newly-formed republic, were one of the few sapient species to have been encountered by humanity: [[mudlark]]s. Imperial scholars have suggested a number of factors led to the extinction of this species, not least of all imported bacteria carried along with the colonists.<ref name="GalnetBirthOfAnEmpire" /> Within a few short years, this indigenous species had been rendered extinct.[[File:Imperial-Clipper-Cockpit-Planet-Capitol-in-Achenar.png|thumb|Imperial Clipper cockpit and Capitol in Achenar]]
Federal historians, citing Federal decrees of the time, paint a different tale. The official Federal version of events alleges that Capitol was in fact sterilised on the orders of [[Henson Duval]], brother of Marlin Duval, prior to terraforming some years after Marlin's death. Imperial scholars disagree on whether this was due to innocent confusion over misunderstood or misrepresented information, associating plans for the terraforming of nearby world Conversion, a project which would not be completed until 2696, with that of the genocide, or a deliberate political smear campaign based on Marlin Duval's antagonistic relationship with the Federation.
Whether mistakenly or not, the Federation threatened retaliation if this action was repeated, and later used this event as the pretext for an invasion of Achenar in 2324.<ref name="GalnetBirthOfAnEmpire" />
=== The Battle of Achenar ===
[[File:Empire Imperial
{{Main|Battle of Achenar}}
The [[Battle of Achenar|war]] between the Federation and [[Achenar]] was notable as the first large-scale interstellar conflict. Much has been made over the years of the Federation's reasons for invading Achenar, in particular the claim that the annihilation of the native sentient species was little more than a slim pretext. While it was certainly true that the principal reason for the military action was
</ref>
Under the command of
Despite a long and fragile supply line, Morgan chose to engage the defenders in a single large battle. Achenar was alerted to the plan and laid an ambush for the invaders, applying the infamous pack-hunting formation against the Federal fleet initially, then against its supply lines.<ref name=":8" />
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=== Terraforming ===
[[Emperor]] [[Gaylen Trasken Duval]]'s passion for the arts and very high standards of living saw a rapid population increase in Imperial systems. Massive migration from [[Independent Systems|independent]], [[GalCop]] and [[Federation]] worlds saw an accompanying increase in prosperity.<ref name=":9">Tourist
To deal with the rapid rise in population across many worlds, the Empire began terraforming of [[Cemiess]] 2 in 3080. This put paid to Federal ambitions in the system. A colonial charter had been established since 3055, but lack of funds had prevented any expansion. The act of approving the Imperial settlement proved to be the last of Gaylen Trasken Duval who died shortly afterwards, he was 109 years of age.<ref name=":9" />
===Recent events
====3300 - 3305====
[[File:Arissa Lavigny-Duval.png|thumb|Arissa Lavigny-Duval was crowned Emperor in 3301]]
In 3300, Emperor [[Hengist Duval]] fell gravely ill, throwing the Imperial succession into question as his son and designated heir, [[Harold Duval]], was widely viewed as unsuitable to rule the Empire.<ref>[http://us2.campaign-archive2.com/?u=dcbf6b86b4b0c7d1c21b73b1e&id=560d50221f Newsletter #52]</ref> On December 19, Hengist appeared before the Imperial Senate to decree Harold was not of sound mind and could not succeed him to the throne.<ref>[http://elitedangerous.com/news/galnet/?read=19DEC3300fce3b0de3f373020e6cf3b5c58d73141 GalNet: Heir to the Throne Officially Mad]</ref> Senator [[Arissa Lavigny-Duval|Arissa Lavigny]], Hengist's illegitimate daughter with [[Florence Lavigny]], was touted as likely to be named the next heir, and on December 22, Hengist announced he would marry Florence and thus solidify Arissa's claim; Arissa changed her last name to Lavigny-Duval.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/news?read=22DEC3300f8b120575cdb102684c7d394a21de3e8 GalNet: Emperor To Marry Sweetheart]</ref> Hengist's illness subsequently worsened and he entered a coma, causing the wedding to postponed through July 3301.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/27b34f18704d470bd0e0f8a09721a81f488b7ee4 GalNet: Emperor in Coma]</ref>
Hengist awoke from his coma on July 14, 3301, and rapidly recovered.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/55a4dc5d9657ba6d253de737 GalNet: Long Live the Emperor!]</ref> The wedding was initially scheduled for July 29, then finalized for August 5. Dignitaries from across human space attended the ceremony, including Federal [[Shadow President]] [[Felicia Winters]]. However, the ceremony was interrupted when [[Brendan Paul Darius]], a high-ranking Imperial official and member of the ultra-traditionalist faction [[Emperor's Dawn]], assassinated Hengist Duval.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/55d6e83e9657badf472c7ad6 GalNet: Emperor’s Killer Not Working Alone?]</ref><ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/55c1d0099657bafd440d630d GalNet: Emperor Hengist Duval Attacked During Wedding]
</ref> The Imperial succession was again thrown into question, with Hengist's granddaughter [[Aisling Duval]] jockeying for the position. On October 6, the matter was finally settled when Arissa Lavigny-Duval was declared Emperor by a vote of the Imperial Senate, and she was formally crowned on October 18, 3301.<ref name=":4">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/561397259657ba7007435572 GalNet: Senate Declares Arissa Lavigny-Duval Emperor]
</ref>
[[File:Denton Patreus.jpg|thumb|Denton Patreus was promoted to Admiral of the Fleet in 3302]]
That same month, Senator [[Denton Patreus]] waged a military campaign to eradicate Emperor's Dawn. Many Emperor's Dawn bases across Imperial and Federal space were destroyed, and on February 5, 3302, Patreus declared the group had been wiped out. In recognition of Patreus's service, Emperor Arissa promoted him to Admiral of the Fleet, giving him command of the Imperial Navy.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/56cae5a39657bade449aaddb GalNet: Galactic News: Denton Patreus Receives Promotion]</ref>
By 3303, tensions between the Empire and the Federation have become heightened as both superpowers have significantly increased military spending and capital ship construction. The Empire expanded into the Pleiades star cluster and established a number of outposts in the HR 1185 system.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/58de2f2515ac1cf85c132945 GalNet: Galactic News: Empire Expands into the Pleiades]
</ref> Proxy conflicts have broken out in the vicinity of the Pleiades Nebula as the Empire and Federation sought to monopolize access to Alien Structures and Meta-Alloys.
On June 19, 3303, following an apparent attack by [[Thargoids]] on a Federal fleet, Emperor Arissa Lavigny-Duval urged her citizens to remain calm and assured them that humanity had overcome seemingly insurmountable odds in the past.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5947bb8ef0522a25d9666976 GalNet: Galactic News: Galactic Leaders Address Thargoid Discovery]
</ref>
By September 3303, speculation was rife that tensions between the Empire and Federation were thawing and the cold war was ending after the three superpowers set aside their differences to sponsor the creation of [[Aegis]]. Commentators opined that because neither the Empire nor the Federation had succeeded in establishing a monopoly over Meta-Alloys, both sides wanted to back down and save face.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/59a92dbb2b36fd286819e7e5 GalNet: Galactic News: Cold War Thawing?]</ref> Despite these reports, some Imperial pundits expressed doubt that the Federation could be trusted to uphold their end of any truce.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/59b115cad1c3406265302efd GalNet: Galactic News: Voices of Dissent]</ref>
On September 21, 3303, following a second attack by Thargoid ships that destroyed a Federal fleet in Pleiades Sector IR-W d1-55, the Empire and the other two superpowers widened Aegis' remit to focus on both research and defence. The organization's budget was dramatically increased, and it recruited the [[Engineers]] [[Liz Ryder]] and [[Professor Palin]] to produce a new anti-Thargoid weapon and a scanner for Thargoid ships, respectively.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/59c3a108ced3ff7f807f54b7 GalNet: Galactic News: Aegis to Widen Remit]</ref><ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/59c3cb9dffff1a05c9770bdd GalNet: Community Goal: Engineers Appeal for Thargoid Material]</ref>
On October 6, 3303, authorities in the Pleiades Nebula reported that the Federation had completely withdrawn its ships from the region, likely marking the end of the Federal-Imperial cold war over meta-alloys. The Empire was expected to follow suit in the coming days. Political commentators suggested that the attitude of cooperation brought about by the joint formation of Aegis, as well as escalating Thargoid attacks in the Pleiades, had been the catalyst for the withdrawal.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/59d7526d8101dd5da464f2fa GalNet: Galactic News: Federation Withdraws from Pleiades]</ref> The Empire's own withdrawal was confirmed by regional authorities on October 11.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/59ddfbc6122be924b4645a7d GalNet: Galactic News: Empire Pulls Out of Pleiades]</ref>
[[File:Aisling portrait.png|thumb|Princess Aisling Duval]]
Relations between the Federation and the Empire appeared poised to continue warming on June 22, 3304, when Princess [[Aisling Duval]] of the Empire announced her engagement to Federal Ambassador [[Jordan Rochester]].<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5b2a5313ac998e5aec013c6b GalNet: Aisling Duval Announces Marriage to Federal Ambassador]</ref> The planned marriage proved controversial not only among Federal citizens, but also in Imperial circles.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5b335f4b308c8b18a33feb05 GalNet: Galaxy Reacts to Federal-Imperial Betrothal]</ref> However, days before the ceremony was scheduled to occur in August 3304, anti-slavery activist [[Jarl Toredo]] revealed to the public that he had been in a secret relationship with Aisling, and Jordan's mother, [[Isolde Rochester]], cancelled the wedding.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5b742ce2563afa25f241db2f GalNet: Aisling Duval's Secret Relationship Revealed]</ref><ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5b7d48ec3cc7f7442d0414e4 GalNet: Aisling Duval Wedding Cancelled]</ref>
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On January 25, 3305, Patreus personally executed Mordanticus for treason on the floor of [[Senate House]], before the members of the Imperial Senate and Emperor Arissa. The [[Imperial Guard]] then proceeded to gun down any senators who had previously expressed support for Nova Imperium, among them [[Pal Vespasian]] and [[Eloise Winterstone]]. Political [[Journalism|journalist]] [[Cassia Carvalho]] reported that mass arrests and public executions of Nova Imperium members and sympathizers took place across Capitol, and Nova Imperium strongholds throughout the Empire were eliminated from the inside by infiltrators who had been placed by Patreus.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5c485c99128401188a499c82 GalNet: Blood on the Senate Floor]</ref> The following week, Hadrian Duval broadcast a message stating that he had assumed leadership of the remnant of Nova Imperium in Paresa and would continue seeking to become emperor.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5c52c4a1231ede6f495e2c75 GalNet: The New Imperator]</ref> In April 3305, Princess Aisling unexpectedly reached out to Hadrian in an apparent bid to boost her image by helping Nova Imperium soften its stances.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5ca70cbdb0aea02ac026e55a GalNet: Aisling Duval Contacts Hadrian Duval]</ref><ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5cade9e46239f914ad4b8ed3 GalNet: The Princess and the Imperator]</ref> Imperator Duval subsequently announced a tentative non-aggression pact between Nova Imperium and Aisling's supporters, and promised to review his organisation's policies.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5cb88b4d5da4892b03080cb8 GalNet: Hadrian Duval Confirms Pact]</ref>
====3306 - Present====
[[File:Empire Wallpaper Elite Dangerous.jpg|thumb|Empire Wallpaper]]
The Empire was shaken by a series of terrorist attacks on four [[starport]]s on September 10, 3306 that were carried out by the [[Neo-Marlinist Liberation Army]], an extremist paramilitary faction dedicated to abolishing the monarchy by force and replacing it with a system of representation by elected senators.<ref name="Terrorist Attacks">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5f59df9848baea0ae33e1e05 GalNet: Terrorist Attacks on Imperial Starports]</ref> Four days later, the NMLA also assassinated Prince [[Harold Duval]].<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5f5f5a4a838b10170647e29b GalNet: Prince Harold Duval Assassinated]</ref> In response, the [[Imperial Navy]] embarked on a widespread anti-terrorism operation to root out the NMLA. Believing that supporters of the more moderate [[Marlin Duval|Marlinist]] ideology were collaborating with the radical and violent NMLA, the Imperial Navy attempted mass arrests of Marlinists. Millions fled their homes to escape persecution, sparking the [[Marlinist refugee crisis]], and by October 20, 3306, many had arrived in several outlying Federal systems. The Empire formally requested that the refugees be returned, but Federal Ambassador [[Jordan Rochester]] refused and asked [[Federal Congress]] to grant them asylum.<ref name="Refugees Flee">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5f8eccd964813d010413e662 GalNet: Marlinist Refugees Flee to the Federation]</ref> On October 26, Federal Congress granted the Marlinists temporary Federal citizenship at the request of [[Shadow President]] [[Felicia Winters]] despite [[President of the Federation|President]] [[Zachary Hudson]]'s stated intention to return the refugees to the Empire.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5f96dae3c5f82d16485c8ba7 GalNet: Congress Votes to Accept Marlinist Immigrants]</ref> As a result, tensions between the Empire and the Federation increased, with some fearing that the Empire could declare war to recapture the Marlinists.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5f9c3b09f940387d9539a785 GalNet: Empire and Federation Clash Over Marlinists]</ref> The situation worsened on November 5, 3306, when the Empire invaded LTT 1935, a Federal system in neutral space that the [[Imperial Internal Security Service]] had reason to believe contained multiple hidden NMLA bomb-making facilities.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5fa3f841861db67e3c548667 GalNet: Federal and Imperial Forces Engage in Battle]</ref> The conflict ended on November 12, with the LTT 1935 Confederacy securing a decisive victory and preventing an Imperial occupation.<ref name="FedResists">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5fad25247ca22b31b03796c3 GalNet: Federal System Resists Imperial Takeover]</ref>
As relations between the Empire and the Federation continued to deteriorate, both superpowers took more aggressive stances. Senator Denton Patreus ordered the withdrawal of Imperial funding from [[Aegis]] on November 27 as the Empire changed its focus from the subsiding Thargoid threat to countering the Federation and the NMLA.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5fc0f66cdb6b4a02124bfdc1 GalNet: The Shadow of War]</ref> [[Sirius Corporation]] finally intervened on December 10, 3306 to try to end the Marlinist refugee crisis and prevent a war between the superpowers. CEO [[Li Yong-Rui]] proposed resettling the Marlinists in [[Marlinist Colonies|new colonies in unclaimed systems]]. Both Federal Congress and the Imperial Senate approved the plan after a period of debate, but added the caveat that any NMLA members identified among the refugees be turned over to the Empire.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5fd21ab2fbd6a36ef7161e62 GalNet: Sirius Corporation Campaign to Establish Marlinist Colonies]</ref>
Amid the turbulence caused by the Marlinist refugee crisis, a [[Thargoid]] [[Second Thargoid War|resurgence]], tensions between the Empire and Federation, and widespread economic instability, Simguru [[Pranav Antal]] of [[Utopia]] proposed the [[Galactic Summit]] on January 1, 3307. It would be the first ever diplomatic conference between the three superpowers, and its purpose was to allow the [[Alliance]], Empire, and Federation to peacefully debate their differences and agree on solutions to the most significant threats facing humanity.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5fdce4b7b4ba847e4533d98e GalNet: Utopia Invites Superpowers to Galactic Summit]</ref> Despite the idea originating with Utopia, the superpowers ultimately selected Sirius Corporation to host the Galactic Summit after CEO Li Yong-Rui demonstrated he could better prepare security for the event.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/6012ad824aaf2914d56a6da3 GalNet: Sirius Corporation Secures Hosting of Galactic Summit]</ref> The Empire's delegation to the Galactic Summit was led by Chancellor Anders Blaine, and included Princess Aisling Duval, Senator Denton Patreus, and members of the [[Imperial Diplomatic Corps]].<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/60267b6db273a60cc1714ce7 GalNet: Empire and Marlinists Prepare for Galactic Summit]</ref>
On March 3, 3307, at the Galactic Summit in [[Sirius]], Chancellor Blaine personally ratified the [[Cornelius-Lasky Convention]] with his Federal and Allied counterparts.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/603f8712228a4030f344bcb3 GalNet: Superpowers Make Progress at the Galactic Summit]</ref> The conference was cancelled on March 11 following a series of coordinated attacks on starports in nine major systems, including [[Dawes Hub]] in Achenar, that were carried out by the NMLA.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/604a1301b02d5114c742fe00 GalNet: Galactic Summit Cancelled – NMLA Attacks Superpowers]</ref> The Empire denied any responsibility for the [[Nine Martyrs]] attacks and insisted [[Serene Harbour]], where the NMLA
Following the NMLA's bombing of Dyson City, Paresa in October 3307 in a second unsuccessful attempt to assassinate Hadrian Duval,<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/61681c52c9c5cc09eb144690 GalNet: Terrorist Attack at Hadrian Duval's HQ]</ref><ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/61696e97cd1bf67b0f682a8d GalNet: NMLA Aims to 'Extinguish the Duval Line']</ref> the Imperial Senate offered to extend Hadrian and his wife, Lady [[Astrid Minerva-Duval]], its official protection to ensure the survival of the Duval bloodline until the NMLA could be defeated. It was rumoured that Emperor Arissa had been directing the Empire under senatorial protection for months from a secure location.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/6177f01d6223d66b9439e86a GalNet: Alliance and Marlinists Address Refugee Crisis]</ref> Hadrian accepted, albeit with great reluctance, on November 2, 3307, relinquishing his position as leader of Nova Imperium and discontinuing the title of Imperator as per the Senate's terms. Nova Imperium was renamed Nova Paresa, and continued assisting the Empire against the NMLA.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/618134e7c39dca54f93f07b4 GalNet: Hadrian Duval Accepts Senate Protection]</ref>
The NMLA was finally defeated in a decisive confrontation in the Mudhrid system on December 2, 3307. The bulk of the NMLA's remaining cells and supporters gathered there in an attempt to rendezvous with Theta Seven, who had gone into hiding after bombing the Marlinist Colonies in July, but they were defeated by Imperial forces with the assistance of independent pilots.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/619f87b6ec2baf12582da95a GalNet: The Battle of Mudhrid]</ref><ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/61a8b6928debb451f45185cf GalNet: Battle of Mudhrid Ends in NMLA Defeat]</ref> With nowhere left to run, Theta Seven killed himself, his last followers, and thousands of [[Far God cult|Far God cultists]] who he had taken hostage by detonating bombs aboard the [[Sacrosanct]] megaship on December 13.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/61b22be2043a8c1f9e7ae20c GalNet: The Death of Theta Seven]</ref>
Adding to the triumph over the NMLA, Hadrian Duval announced the birth of his son, [[Hector Mordanticus Duval]], on December 2. The birth of a new Duval was celebrated across the Empire, and Hector was immediately discussed as the most likely candidate to inherit the Imperial Throne from Emperor Arissa.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/61a8c2dbb7edf77b734bd9f2 GalNet: Empire Celebrates Newborn Duval]</ref><ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/61b1f1013afea031b66553d2 GalNet: Tributes Gathered to Honour Duval Heir]</ref> Hadrian, Lady Astrid, and Hector left senatorial protection and made their official debut in Imperial high society at Princess Aisling's New Year celebration in [[Cemiess]] on January 1, 3308. Emperor Arissa's absence from the festivities was noted.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/61bc62fe63bc1350305a7965 GalNet: Duvals Gather to Celebrate New Year]</ref>
The superpowers agreed to shut down Aegis on January 18, 3308 per the recommendation of the [[Paul Baumann|Baumann Report]], which had found that Aegis was no longer able to effectively carry out its anti-Thargoid responsibilities. The Imperial Senate approved Senator Patreus's request for a military budget increase, allowing the Imperial Navy to assume Aegis's role in defending the Empire from Thargoid attacks.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/61e6ba29f6b3cd47d1758763 GalNet: Superpowers Plan to Replace Aegis]</ref>
ACT cracked [[Omega Grid]], the NMLA's dark-comms network, in February 3308, and found evidence of a conspiracy called the [[Lords of Restoration]], who had hired the private military contractor [[Darkwater Inc]] to kidnap Emperor Arissa Lavigny-Duval in January 3307. Upon receiving ACT's intel on February 9, 3308, Chancellor Blaine immediately deployed the [[Imperial Guard]] to [[Summerland]] on a rescue mission. Emperor Arissa was safely recovered and returned to Capitol. In addition, the Imperial Internal Security Service opened an investigation based on ACT's findings, leading to the arrest of multiple senators and several other conspirators in Imperial Intelligence. ACT delivered a detailed report on the Lords' activities on February 14, identifying five senators as the NMLA's secret backers. The Lords of Restoration had sought to eliminate the Imperial Family using the NMLA, then abolish the position of Emperor and transfer executive authority to the Senate. During the year that Arissa was held captive, the Lords used a virtual representation of Her Majesty to fabricate official communications and effectively rule the Empire.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/6203a754f628791f254db8d8 GalNet: Arissa Rescued from Year-Long Captivity]</ref><ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/620a5094eb024118526134da GalNet: ACT Exposes the Lords of Restoration]</ref>
==Society==
[[File:Elite-Dangerous-Empire-City.png|thumb|250px|Empire city]]
The Empire is based on a ''cliens'' system. Society is strictly stratified, with people being able to move between strata (lower strata particularly) based on money, patronage and influence.<ref name=":1" /> [[Imperial Family|Royalty]], nobility, and wealthy individuals are members of the upper class of Imperial society.
Its high living standards, outlandishly wealthy companies and sophisticated technology and design have made it an attractive place for the wealthy and famous to call home. The Empire has a fascinating political system, rampant nationalism, obsession with wealth projection, and a dark underbelly of legalised slavery.<ref name=":3">[https://www.edrpg.co.uk/what-s-in-the-books The Empire Sourcebook,
The [[Imperial Museum of Culture]] is located on [[Eotienses A 3]]. It has historical artworks such as sculptures.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5ba38461092bf134fa0fe019 GalNet: Historical Sculptures Stolen
=== Honour and Status ===
The Empire values both status and honour very highly indeed. So whilst it is acceptable to flaunt wealth, treating people well is a question of honour – and this includes [[Imperial Slaves]]. Having an unpaid debt is seen as utterly dishonourable – an honourable [[Imperial Citizen]] would sell themselves into [[Imperial Slavery|slavery]] to clear a debt they could not otherwise clear.<ref name=":1" /> The [[Imperial Slavers Association]] monitors the treatment and transportation of Imperial Slaves.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/55d6f8369657ba95302c7ad6 GalNet: Imperial Slave Association Audited]</ref> Unlike conventional slaves, Imperial Slaves hold status within the Empire, albeit as the lowest rung on the ladder, and are entitled to legal protections.<ref name="EE" />
Imperial society is based on honour. The values resemble the ancient Roman [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dignitas_(Roman_concept) Dignitas] and Japanese [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bushido Bushido].<ref name=":2">
It was shaming to do something that put people in a bad state. The poorhouses still happened, but sensibly, people were supposed to look after each other.<ref name=":2" />
Former [[Senator]] [[Kahina Tijani Loren]] was quoted as saying: ''"We Imperials often do get accused of being arrogant and overbearing, but at least we're good at it.''"<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/7c0cd42ca1cf41eef5ab43a40cfbce2fc828f4d9 GalNet: Prism Senator Continues to Woo Federation Residents]
</ref>
[[Imperial Citizen|Imperial Citizens]] (aka Imperials or Imps) like to project their wealth.<ref name=":3" /> They prefer opulence, style and quality with no expense spared.<ref name=":6" /> This is visible in their cities, ships by [[Gutamaya]] and clothing.
Imperial citizens view [[Ngadandari Fire Opals]] as a status symbol. Their mesmerizing fire-like reflections represent the fire of the birth of the Empire. Their high market value has lead to the planet Ngadandari being systematically strip-mined by Imperial slaves.<ref>
=== Family ===
Line 134 ⟶ 153:
=== Technology ===
[[File:Corsair and Majestic-Class Interdictor.jpg|thumb|Corsair and Majestic-Class Interdictor by [[Gutamaya]]]]
The Empire relies less on mechanical technology such as [[robotics]] and artificial intelligence, and instead uses [[Imperial Slaves]] and [[cloning|clones]] to do the work which machines usually perform in other parts of the universe.<ref name=":1" /><ref>''[[Elite Dangerous: Wanted]]''</ref><ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/ElitePress/comments/52ahu4/lore_request_imperial_cloning_process/ reddit: lore request, Imperial cloning process]</ref>
[[Majestic-Class Interdictor]] capital ships, supplied by [[Gutamaya]], make up the backbone of the Imperial Navy. The vessel boasts a striking beauty and luxury while remaining an effective machine of war.
=== Discrimination ===
People who do not speak with the quirky accent of [[Imperial Citizen]]s are shunned in the [[Achenar]] system, especially if they are from a Federation world.<ref>[[Achenar]] In-
At the [[Imperial Palace]], foreigners are welcomed by palace staff who use subtle pro-Empire propaganda in an attempt to undermine the Federation. These greetings are not extended outside palace grounds.<ref name=":0" />
The monarchist Empire has been stridently opposed to [[wikipedia:Republicanism|republicanism]] since the time of Emperor [[Henson Duval]]. Countless proponents of the republican ideology of [[Marlin Duval|Marlinism]], which advocates restoring the form of government implemented by the old [[Republic of Achenar]] and replacing the [[Imperial Family]] with democratic representation by elected senators, have been systematically oppressed within the
=== Public Holidays ===
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" border="1"
!
!
! Notes
|-
|
|
|Citizens of the Empire celebrate [[Empire Day]], a [[holiday]] marking the anniversary of Marlin Duval taking the first step on Achenar 6d, every January 2nd. Celebration of New Year's Day within the Empire is deferred until Empire Day due to the two holidays' proximity.<ref>[[GalNet/3301/January#Emperor Issues His Traditional 'Empire Day' Message|GalNet: Emperor Issues His Traditional 'Empire Day' Message]]</ref>
|-
|Non-annual
|
|
|-
|Non-annual
|[[Imperial Wedding|Imperial Wedding Day]]
|The Emperor's wedding day is a non-annual national holiday.<ref name=":5" /><ref name=":7" />
|}
===Corporations ===
These are notable Imperial corporations:
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" border="1"
!Name
!Sector (GICS)
!Allegiance
!Description
|-
|Callaghan Firearms
|Consumer Discretionary
|Empire
|Makers of "the most powerful handguns in the universe", based in LTT 911.
|-
|Castro Management Group
|Financials
|Empire
|An investment corporation based in CD-73 12. "We bend over backwards, so you don't have to."
|-
|Conway Holo Productions
|Entertainment
|Empire
| A broadcast entertainment production company based in Reynes. "Bite size entertainment for a busy day."
|-
|[[Darkwater Inc]]
|Industrials
|Empire
|One of the largest private military forces in the galaxy. Defunct.
|-
|Dead-Eye Defence Systems
|Consumer Discretionary
|Empire
|One of the Empire's leading weapons manufacturers, based in Thule. Founded by Broo Tarquin, now owned by Thule Industries. "Power and laser tech for missions large and small."
|-
|Defence Gizmos
|Consumer Discretionary
|Empire
|Distributor of recycled ship parts, based in Aerial. "Recycled parts to equip your ship."
|-
| Demolition Unlimited
|Industrials
|Empire
|A company specialising in demolition tools. Founded by Liz Ryder and based in Eurybia.
|-
|Devin Armour Specialists
|Industrials
|Empire
|Supplier of ship armour and defensive technologies based in Heget. "When a ship isn't tough enough."
|-
|DK and Son Holographics
|Media
|Empire
|A media corporation based in Fehu. "Always show your best side."
|-
| Donnellan Healthcare
|Health Care
|Empire
|An Imperial healthcare provider based in Aztlan. "Pamper and protect."
|-
|Downing Agriculture
|Consumer Staples
|Empire
| An Imperial agriculture corporation based in Tangaroa. "The finest food for your table."
|-
|Drive Performance Specialists
|Industrials
|Empire
|Also known as DPS. Drive-tuning specialists based in Cockaigne. "For the ultimate performance."
|-
|[[Eye on Achenar]]
|Consumer Discretionary
|Empire
|Local newsfeed that primarily covers Empire and Achenar-related news.
|-
|Gayan Melodies
| Entertainment
| Empire
|A music production company based in Baldr. "Music tailored for your needs."
|-
|[[Gutamaya]]
|Aerospace
|Empire
|Manufacturer of ships and equipment, specialized in combat ships. The primary supplier of the Imperial Navy.
|-
|[[Imperial Dynamics]]
|Automotive
|Empire
|A wholly-owned subsidiary of Core Dynamics that produces rebranded versions of Skimmers for exclusive sale in Imperial space.
|-
|[[Imperial Herald]]
|Consumer Discretionary
|Empire
|The primary newsfeed of the Empire.
|-
| J-Atack Fine Art Studios
| Consumer Discretionary
|Empire
|Art sellers to Imperial high society, based in CD-70 1960. "Traditional or modern, but always exquisite."
|-
|JB Tax Accountants
| Consumer Finance
|Empire
|A prominent Imperial accountancy firm based in Apam Napat. "No numbers too real or imaginary."
|-
|Kraken Shield Specialists
|Industrials
|Empire
|An Imperial shield system manufacturer based in Vequess. Former employer of Etienne Dorn. "Fly with the confidence of Kraken protection."
|-
|Magda
|Consumer Discretionary
|Empire
| A retail franchise and distributor that also controls a number of key agricultural systems in the Empire. Based in Shinigami. "Low prices, high quality. All for you."
|-
|[[Manticore]]
|Industrials
|Empire
|Manufacturer of cannons, missiles, drones, and plasma-based handheld weapons.
|-
|[[Mastopolos Mining]]
|Materials
|Empire
|A major mining corporation with operations in Imperial and independent space.
|-
|[[Paresa News Network]]
|Consumer Discretionary
|Empire
| Local newsfeed that primarily covers Paresa and Nova Imperium-related news.
|-
|[[The Imperial Citizen]]
|Consumer Discretionary
|Empire
|Newsfeed that primarily covers Empire-related news.
|-
| Thule Industries
|Industrials
|Empire
| Current parent company of Dead-Eye Defence Systems, based in Thule.
|-
|[[Torval Mining Ltd]]
|Materials
|Empire
|Mining company based in LTT 198, originally an autonomous branch of Mastopolos Mining.
|-
|Villist Transfers
|Transportation
|Empire
|An interstellar shipping corporation based in Brohman.
|}
==
[[File:Elite-Dangerous-Faction-Civilization-City-Patterns-Art.png|thumb|City patterns art]]
==
The Empire is the second most populous of the three superpowers, and has an estimated population of 1,652,046,151,015 as of April 3306.<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/g641q3/demographic_changes_in_the_galaxy_2020/
As of
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" border="1"
!
!
!
!
|-
|1
|Ch'eng
|Empire
|19,968,
|-
|2
|Amenta
|Empire
|17,258,
|-
|3
|[[Achenar]]
|Empire
|16,380,
|-
|4
|Omicron Gruis
|Empire
|16,202,
|-
|5
|HR 1475
|Empire
|15,
|-
|6
|Grebegus
|Empire
|15,089,
|-
|7
|Theta Indi
|Empire
|15,029,
|-
|8
|HIP 113632
|Empire
|
|-
|9
| Sekh
|Empire
|14,
|-
|10
|Pictavul
|Empire
|14,
|}
==Government==
===Leadership===
[[File:Arissa Lavigny-Duval.png|thumb
The [[Emperor]] is the head of state and head of government of the Empire. Monarchs of the [[Imperial Family]] have ruled the Empire since the coronation of [[Henson Duval]] in 2320.<ref name="
The line of succession to the Imperial throne is generally hereditary except if there is no suitable candidate acceptable to the [[Imperial Senate]].<ref name=":5" /> When ascended to the throne, the emperor rules until death.
Line 257 ⟶ 409:
All [[Senators]] and the [[Emperor]] can sit in the [[Imperial Senate]], but it is rare that all participate at the same time. The [[Chancellor]] is a Senator with additional powers, and he or she runs any debates in the Senate. They are appointed by the Emperor. It is otherwise structurally flat by law, but in practice has power blocks within it, led by the more important/powerful Senators. Not all Senators are equal. There are regular votes on issues of the day, and the Senator’s voting power is the total number of [[Imperial Citizen|Citizens]] (in turn represented by [[Client]]s, and blocks of Clients by [[Patron]]s) they currently represent. They are influenced by their most powerful Patrons – who in turn are not all equal, and Patrons may move their block to another Senator at a whim, particularly if they feel their current Senator is not representing the views of their Clients. Senators can lose Patrons quickly if their actions are unpopular, but bear in mind a Senator sets tax rates and healthcare for all those that support them, so can effectively bribe Patrons to ally themselves with them. The most powerful Senators can have a hundred or more times the voting power than others, and a Senate majority can be just a few of the major Senators, but honour requires that the views of all Senators are listened to politely before voting against them.<ref name=":5" />
[[File:Elite-Dangerous-Imperial-Palace-Concept-Art.png|thumb
Historically the Imperial Senate used to always physically sit in the [[Senate House]] on [[Capitol]] (Achenar 6d). It is near to the [[Imperial Palace]]. Technically it still does sit there, but in practice most Senators "sit" virtually by remote projection – though by tradition there are a number of events (like the accession of a new Emperor, and on Empire Day (January 2nd) where it is considered proper and polite to attend physically, where a party atmosphere descends on Capitol as the entourages of each Senator arrive in their finery.<ref name=":5" />
Line 270 ⟶ 422:
Effectively all Imperial systems have representation, but indirectly. Every [[Imperial Citizen]] has a right to representation by a Client. Every [[Client]] has a right to be represented by a [[Patron]], and every Patron a Senator. Senators generally represent power bases – which can be many systems or a specific interest group, and typically many hundred Patrons – though it is up to the Senator how many Patrons they have. There is not a fixed number. So if a system has just one Imperial Citizen living there, they will have representation in the Senate – but most likely only indirectly through their Patrons. It is likely there is a Patron at the head of each of the larger Imperial Minor Factions for example, but not a Senator.<ref name=":5" />
[[Senators]] represent their Patrons as they see fit. Senators can also hold other roles, like [[Admiral of the Fleet]], [[Chancellor]], Leader of the House (runs the Senate hearings when the Emperor and Chancellor are not present). Senators can also have private interests, and generally represent one or more [[Corporations]] – often with large personal shareholdings in them. They are fully entitled to be biased towards their own interests, and generally do, as long as most of their Patrons hold much the same interests. Senators are above the law, subject only to a decree from the Emperor, and through history it has even been known for Senators to go to battle against each other.<ref name=":5">[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/
===Government agencies===
====Regulatory authorities====
====[[Imperial Flight Operations Bureau]] - The Empire's air traffic control service.====
====Foreign relations====
*[[Imperial Diplomatic Corps]] - Operates the Empire's embassies in foreign systems, and also has broad powers and jurisdiction throughout the Empire itself.
==== Security services====
*[[Imperial Intelligence]] - A highly secretive agency that monitors Imperial interests outside the Empire.
*[[Imperial Internal Security Service]] - An agency responsible for domestic security throughout the Empire.
*[[Imperial Guard]] - An elite Imperial security force responsible for the defence of the Achenar system and the protection of the Emperor, the Imperial Palace, and certain senators.
*[[Omega Company]] - An [[Advanced Tactical Response]] unit that operates in Imperial space.
==Imperial Law ==
Law is seen and enforced very differently in the Empire. The [[Emperor]] is the sovereign ruler of the Empire and above the law. [[Senators]] are responsible for enforcing the Emperor's laws, but the Senators themselves are above the law. They can order executions, and can even kill people themselves, though sometimes (rarely) they may be held to account for their actions by the Emperor. Some Senators are warlike and may take over systems in the name of the Empire, to get the spoils, and they may get a good deal of support as a result. Some Senators do not tolerate [[Imperial Slavery]], and regularly speak out against it, but from the basis of honour - not suggesting it should not be legal. In the Empire, very little is illegal, but many things are frowned upon, like excessive use of narcotics. [[Cloning]] and [[genetic engineering]] are allowed in the Empire.<ref name=":1">[http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=dcbf6b86b4b0c7d1c21b73b1e&id=f72c0f91b2 Newsletter #22]</ref><ref name="S128" /><ref name=":5" />
==
[[File:Emerald-Moon-in-Cemiess.png|thumb
*
*[[Cemiess]] - Home system of [[Aisling Duval]].
*
*[[Eotienses]] - Home system and headquarters of Senator [[Denton Patreus]]. The system joined the Empire in 2314 following a public referendum.
*[[Facece]] - The Empire's most important military bastion and headquarters of the [[Imperial Navy]].<ref name="EE" /> It is administered by Senator [[Anders Blaine]].<ref>Tourist Spot 0155, "Chancellor Blaine"</ref>
*[[Fehu]] - One of the Empire's most isolated and remote colonies.
*[[Kamadhenu]] - Headquarters of Emperor [[Arissa Lavigny-Duval]].
*[[Prism]] - Home system of the late Senator [[Algreb Loren]] and his infamous daughter, [[Kahina Tijani Loren]].
*
*[[Synteini]] - Home system and headquarters of Senator [[Zemina Torval]].
==Military==
Line 294 ⟶ 464:
===Imperial Navy ships===
[[Gutamaya]] has designed and produced
*
*
*
* [[Imperial Courier]]
* [[Imperial Eagle]]
*
*[[Corsair]] (no rank)
==
{{For|a list of Permits|Permits/Empire}}
Line 311 ⟶ 482:
Once you have finished several dispatch quests, simply visit the Bulletin Board at any of the faction's stations to accept a job titled "Imperial invitation". Accepting the job automatically adds the permit to your FSD computer.
==
<gallery>
File:Elite Dangerous - Epic History of The Empire
File:Elite Dangerous- THE EMPIRE CODEX
File:The Empire- The Second Chance - Elite Dangerous
File:Slave to the Empire
File:EMPIRES - Elite Dangerous- Odyssey
File:Elite Dangerous OST - Empire Mix
File:Elite- Dangerous Fiction Diary -1
File:Fiction Diary -4
File:Elite Dangerous-Being An Imperial
</gallery>
== Gallery
<gallery hideaddbutton="true">
File:EmpireInsignia.png|Insignia of The Empire
File:Empire insignia simple.png|Alternate insignia
File:
File:Imperial-Navy-Fleet.png|Imperial Navy fleet
File:Empire Imperial Navy First Fleet.png|Imperial Navy First Fleet
File:Elite-Dangerous-Imperial-Palace-Concept-Art.png|Imperial Palace concept art
File:Elite-Dangerous-Empire-City.png|An Imperial city
File:Imperial-Clipper-Cockpit-Planet-Capitol-in-Achenar.png|Imperial Clipper cockpit and Capitol in Achenar
File:Empire Wallpaper Elite Dangerous.jpg|Empire Wallpaper
File:Corsair and Majestic-Class Interdictor.jpg|Corsair and Majestic-Class Interdictor
File:Elite-Dangerous-Faction-Civilization-City-Patterns-Art.png|City patterns art
</gallery>
==
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*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
==References==
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