Tension

The Imperial and Colony governments have long been at each other's throats. Since 110 NSD, the date of the historic event known as The Reach, both governments have been aggressively waging skirmishes and battles throughout the world. While there is no good blood between these two powers, a declaration of war would mean the economic collapse of them both. In light of this, both powers have agreed to participate in the Stability Accord, a treaty that permits cross-governmental violence so long as it does not escalate into a war. Considering how the Empire and the Colonies are the only two governments to actively enforce this treaty, with the exception of small splinter factions and some neutral ones, the maintenance of the treaty is purely out of the benefit it poses to both powers. 
However, the Accord has become less and less relevant as both powers constantly prod each other with violence while also stabilizing their economies. It is only a matter of time before war becomes a true concern.