Chapter 43

The sprawling cosmic vista of space outside her window dissolved as Lydia finished her conversation with Astrid. Within moments, Earth's gray satellite - the Moon, appeared in the panoramic view. It stood a silent sentinel, battered and scarred yet holding a certain charm, a solemn allure of solitude. The imposing sight of Attilan was now reduced to remnants, the city in desperate need of aid and restoration.

Taking one last sweeping glance at the starlit expanse, Lydia headed towards her ship - a marvel of Genoshian engineering. It was a sleek and aesthetically pleasing piece of machinery, built for both comfort and functionality, embodying the essence of Genoshian design.

As she disembarked from her ship onto the barren lunar landscape, Yelena Belova, dressed in her polished Genoshian suit, was waiting for her. She fell to one knee, bowing her head in deep respect. "My Empress, it's an honor to see you again," she said, her voice filled with reverence.

Lydia extended her hand, helping Yelena to her feet. "Rise, Yelena," she commanded gently. "No need for formalities. We're in this together."

Yelena quickly relayed the situation on the Moon, "The situation remains the same, My Empress. I've sent a messenger to inform the Royal Court of your arrival. They should be joining us soon."

As Lydia followed Yelena through the damaged city, her eyes took in the scale of the destruction. Rubble-strewn streets, shattered buildings, and a people whose spirits seemed as broken as their city. Her heart ached at the sight, a sharp reminder of the brutal power play that led to this catastrophe.

Yelena broke the somber silence. "My Empress, when might we expect the support fleet to arrive? These people are in dire need."

Lydia paused, her gaze sweeping across the lunar city. "I understand their plight, Yelena," she replied, her voice soft yet commanding. "But for now, we must make do with what we have. They've shown their resilience and we need to help them regain their strength. Their path to recovery begins with us."

Lydia's evasive answer hinted at the complex political and strategic considerations behind her decision, yet Yelena understood. With another nod of respect, they continued their walk towards the makeshift throne room, ready to face whatever awaited them next.

As Lydia and Yelena made their way through the rubble-strewn paths of Attilan, the Inhumans watched them warily from their hiding places, curiosity mixed with fear. Lydia, while human in appearance, emanated an aura of raw power that was nearly suffocating, compelling even the bravest of Inhumans to take a step back.

This was not entirely surprising. Lydia's body was a nexus of cosmic energies - energies she had absorbed from the Space Stone, Power Stone, Mind Stone, and now held the Reality Stone. This combination of energies created an aura that was nearly palpable, pressing down on those around her with a weight that was impossible to ignore.

The Inhumans, many of whom were attuned to the energies around them due to their unique abilities, were particularly sensitive to the fluctuations emanating from Lydia. It was as if they could sense the immense power she held, a power that both intrigued and terrified them.

Despite the underlying tension, Lydia's expression remained calm, her steps sure and steady. She was aware of the effects of her aura on those around her and made every effort to keep it under control.

Beside her, Yelena kept up a constant stream of conversation, providing Lydia with updates on the situation, recounting anecdotes from her interactions with the Inhumans, and discussing strategies for their impending meeting with the Royal Court. Her respect for Lydia was clear in her tone and posture.

"My Empress," Yelena started, "the Inhumans are a proud people. Even in the face of such devastation, they've maintained their dignity. But fear and uncertainty are setting in. They need reassurance, a beacon of hope."

Lydia paused, her gaze sweeping over the wary faces peeking from behind the debris. "I understand, Yelena. And it's our responsibility to provide that beacon. It won't be an easy path, but we're here to assist, not to rule."

The journey to the makeshift throne room was filled with such exchanges, setting the stage for the pivotal meeting that lay ahead. Through their conversation, the duo was not just planning a negotiation, but laying the groundwork for a potential alliance, and perhaps, a brighter future for the Inhumans.

The makeshift throne room, a large chamber lit by the cold, sterile light of the Moon, was filled with an air of tension as the Inhuman Royal Court awaited Lydia's arrival. Black Bolt sat at the head of the room, his wife Medusa at his side, their hands entwined in a show of unity. The rest of the Royal Court, Karnak the Shatterer, Gorgon, Triton, and Crystal, were arranged around them, their postures a mixture of apprehension and determination.

"Lydia... she is unlike anyone we've ever encountered," Crystal murmured, her eyes never leaving the entrance of the room. "Her aura is overwhelming. I can feel it even now."

Gorgon grunted, crossing his arms over his chest. "That doesn't mean we should be afraid of her. We've faced adversaries before."

Triton nodded in agreement, his gaze calm and calculating. "Indeed. Our focus should be on finding common ground and working towards an alliance that benefits us all."

Before anyone else could comment, the entrance to the room slid open with a hiss, and Lydia stepped into the chamber, Yelena right behind her. The Royal Court rose to their feet as one, their faces turned towards their visitors.

"Empress Lydia," Medusa greeted, her voice calm and steady. "Thank you for coming. We're aware that your time is valuable."

Lydia inclined her head in acknowledgment, her face composed. "Queen Medusa. I appreciate your welcoming words."

As the formalities unfolded, the tension in the room seemed to lessen, if only a little. It was clear to all that the conversation that was about to take place could very well dictate the future of Attilan and its people. The hope was that it would be a future of unity, not conflict. After some pleasant conversation, Lydia purposes a plan.

The proposal fell over the room like a dropped stone, leaving ripples of shock in its wake. For a moment, silence reigned, the Royal Court members staring at Lydia with disbelief.

"Leave Attilan? You suggest we abandon our home?" Triton was the first to break the silence, his voice harsh with indignation.

Lydia simply watched him, her expression unmoved. "Not abandon, Triton. Reposition. Your current base is crippled and vulnerable. Moving would be a wise decision."

A murmur of dissent swept the room. "This is outrageous!" Gorgon barked, rising to his feet, his eyes blazing with anger. "You come into our home, offer assistance, and then try to annex us into your empire? The audacity!"

As he finished, he met Lydia's gaze, her icy blue eyes staring him down. His voice faltered, and he quickly sat back down, a strange mix of fear and awe flashing across his face. The room fell quiet again, the atmosphere tense and heavy.

Black Bolt, who had been silent throughout the exchange, turned to his wife, his hands moving rapidly in a flurry of sign language. Medusa watched him intently, then turned back to Lydia. "My husband asks, why do you want us to join your Empire? What do you gain from this?"

Lydia paused, choosing her words carefully. "Unity, Queen Medusa. Unity and a stronger front against our mutual enemies. The Genoshian Empire is not in the business of conquest or control, but of cooperation and mutual benefit. You have much to gain from such an arrangement."

The room fell into another round of hushed discussions, the Royal Court members sharing glances and words, their faces etched with apprehension. The idea was audacious, to say the least, and they all knew that it would bring forth significant changes.

Yet, the potential advantages were undeniable. The technological advancements of Lydia's empire were centuries ahead, and their strength was unquestionable. The question was, could they put their pride and the memory of their once majestic moon base behind them for the promise of a better future?

Lydia's voice echoed in the makeshift throne room, her words resonating with the Inhuman Royal Court. "The resources of the Genoshian Empire are stretched thin. Our focus must be on the protection and rehabilitation of New Nidavellir and our home planet, New Genosha."

A sense of unease swept across the room. Medusa exchanged a quick glance with Black Bolt, who wore a tight expression on his face. His hands fluttered in a swift, pointed series of signs.

"He sees your point," Medusa translated, her voice betraying her concern, "But he also sees your maneuver for what it is, Empress. You use your support fleet as leverage to convince us."

Lydia smiled, inclining her head in acknowledgment. "Fair observation, King Black Bolt. But it isn't merely a bargaining chip. It is reality. If we must divide our attention and resources between here and New Nidavellir, our progress will be slow, and your people will continue to suffer."

Lydia's statement prompted a surge of murmuring amongst the members of the court. The implications of what she had just stated were grave. Without the support fleet, the speed of their recovery would be greatly slowed.

Karnak, ever the strategist, broke his silence, his voice cool and analytical. "And if we move to New Genosha, we consolidate the resources and manpower of the Genoshian Empire. We benefit from your advanced technology, your security and, most importantly, we can rebuild faster."

At this, Lydia turned to Yelena, her eyes searching. The younger woman, trained in protocol and diplomacy, did not betray her surprise at Lydia's maneuver. Her expression remained serene and respectful, a faint nod of acknowledgment the only indication she understood the gravity of the situation.

A weighty silence descended upon the room once more. All eyes turned towards Black Bolt and Medusa, the decision falling heavily on their shoulders. They looked at each other, their expressions communicating more than words ever could. Whatever their decision, it would shape the future of the Inhuman race. The room waited in tense anticipation.

"Can we discuss the specifics?" Black Bolt's request was translated by Medusa. Her voice was steady, but the tension in the room remained palpable.

Lydia's eyes sparkled with satisfaction. A dialogue had begun, a chance for negotiation and understanding, something she had hoped for.

"Our main concern," Triton, the aquatic Inhuman, started, "is our population. Our numbers were already dwindling before... before the attacks. Now, we are barely surviving. We cannot abandon the search for our lost brothers and sisters on Earth."

"We won't," Lydia said, her tone assuring. "Our Empire has surveillance technology on Earth, capable of identifying genetic markers of Inhuman DNA. We can help you locate them."

The revelation shocked the Royal Court. Crystal, the youngest among them, gasped, her hands going to her mouth. "But... That means you know about the Terrigenesis process. How...?" she trailed off, aghast.

"We've had an eye on the cosmic affairs for quite some time," Lydia admitted, her voice steady. "Our primary focus is to ensure the safety and prosperity of the galactic populace, and that includes Inhumans."

Gorgon, the massive Inhuman with hooved feet, snorted skeptically. "How can we trust you won't use that technology against us? Or turn us into a part of your army?"

Lydia's gaze softened, acknowledging the fear that underlay his words. "I understand your concern. Trust cannot be built in a day or in a single meeting. You have my word that the Genoshian Empire seeks an alliance of mutual benefit. We do not want you as our soldiers but as our allies, our partners. We can learn from each other, evolve together."

Her words seemed to soothe some of their worries. After a brief, silent exchange among themselves, Karnak nodded thoughtfully. "Your proposal has... merit. But it requires further discussion among us."

"We can convene again in a few days," Lydia suggested. "In the meantime, we will continue our aid in your recovery."

The room let out a collective sigh of relief. This was just the beginning of what was sure to be a lengthy negotiation. But the thought of a potential alliance with the powerful Genoshian Empire, the assurance of help, sparked a tiny flame of hope in the hearts of the Inhuman Royal Court. As Lydia left the room with Yelena in tow, they couldn't help but wonder if this could be the beginning of a new chapter for their people.

As they exited the makeshift throne room, Lydia noticed the silence that Yelena radiated. She turned to her trusted commander, raising a questioning eyebrow. "You seem deep in thought, Yelena. What's on your mind?"

Caught off guard, Yelena hesitated before responding, her respect for Lydia apparent in her thoughtful demeanor. "My Empress," she began, trying to choose her words carefully. "Your decision to withhold the support fleet… it came as a surprise."

Lydia's gaze was intense, and Yelena involuntarily bowed her head, immediately dropping to a knee in submission. "I meant no disrespect, my Empress. It was not my place to question your decisions," she quickly amended, a touch of panic in her voice.

But Lydia only let out a weary sigh, raising a hand to help Yelena stand back up. "No, Yelena, you have every right to ask. After all, you are my confidante. We share the burden of leadership."

Yelena rose, looking at Lydia with gratitude. Her Empress had always valued her honesty, a trait she admired.

"Truth is, I have had to make some difficult decisions lately," Lydia admitted. "We may be an empire, but our resources are not infinite. We have to prioritize, especially after the battle with Thanos. We cannot afford to stretch ourselves too thin, not now. We need our critical fleets to be on standby, close and ready for any surprises that might come our way."

Understanding washed over Yelena, coloring her perspective. "Your decision was strategic," she surmised, her tone conveying her admiration. "You managed to create an incentive for the Inhumans to consider joining our Empire while ensuring our defenses are not compromised."

Lydia nodded, giving a wry smile. "We must be prepared for all eventualities, Yelena. Diplomacy is not just about kind words and generosity; it is about strategy and negotiation, about giving and taking."

Yelena took a moment to digest Lydia's words, her respect for her Empress growing with every revelation. "Thank you for trusting me with this, my Empress," she said sincerely.

"And thank you for being there, Yelena," Lydia replied, placing a reassuring hand on Yelena's shoulder. "Remember, no leader stands alone."

As they walked together through the damaged city of Attilan, Yelena couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of purpose. She was more determined than ever to serve her Empress, her mentor, and the Genoshian Empire. Their journey was far from over, but with Lydia at the helm, Yelena was certain they could weather any storm.

In the aftermath of Lydia's departure, a profound silence blanketed the makeshift throne room. Black Bolt, the normally silent king, held a contemplative expression, his dark eyes flickering with internal calculations. His queen, Medusa, kept her gaze steady on the spot where Lydia had stood moments ago, the vibrant locks of her sentient hair swaying gently.

"She makes a compelling argument," Karnak broke the silence, his sharp gaze fixed on the holographic map of the galaxy hovering above the table. "We are in a weakened state. The empire's resources and protection could offer us a chance to recover and thrive."

Gorgon grunted in agreement, his massive form looming over the assembly. "We don't have to like it, but we do have to consider it. The survival of our people is at stake."

Triton, silent until now, finally spoke up, his words measured and thoughtful. "A change of location would not change who we are. We have always been adaptable. If this move gives us a better chance of survival, we should consider it."

Medusa looked at each of them, her expression softening. "We've always prided ourselves on being self-sufficient. It's hard to consider needing someone else's help."

Crystal sighed, her gaze drifting to the starscape beyond the room's viewing portal. "But we do need help, don't we? We can't deny that. After all, it was their help that saved us."

Black Bolt, his silent figure a symbol of his thoughtful contemplation, finally motioned towards Medusa, the pair sharing a wordless exchange. Medusa nodded, speaking for both of them. "The Genoshian Empire has displayed strength and honor. Perhaps allying with them is the right move."

Days turned into nights as they considered, debated, and questioned the implications of their decision. It was not an easy choice, the weight of their people's future pressing down on them. Yet, as the fourth sunrise basked the throne room in a gentle glow, a consensus was reached.

"We are the Royal family of the Inhumans," Medusa declared, standing tall with renewed resolve. "Our primary duty is to our people. If joining the Genoshian Empire under Empress Lydia ensures their safety and prosperity, then we shall do so."

The room echoed with murmurs of agreement. The decision was made, the die cast. Their future laid with the Genoshian Empire, under the rule of Empress Lydia. For the sake of their people, they hoped it was the right one.