Chapter 44

The doors to the makeshift throne room slid open, revealing Lydia and Yelena standing side by side, their regal postures asserting an imposing authority. The Royal members rose to their feet as they entered, Black Bolt and Medusa standing at the forefront, acting as the voice and will of their people.

"We've deliberated, Empress Lydia," Medusa began, her gaze steady and determined. "We have chosen to align ourselves with the Genoshian Empire."

A murmur of acknowledgement swept through the room, but it was Lydia's subtle nod of approval that seemed to seal the monumental decision.

"There is, however, a question of governance," Black Bolt signed, his silent language interpreted by Medusa. "We wish to maintain our societal structure. Is that acceptable?"

"Absolutely," Lydia replied, her voice calm and confident. "The individuality of each group within the Empire is of utmost importance to me. You will keep your customs and structures. I only ask that both you, Black Bolt, and you, Medusa, join my council. This council assists me in making informed decisions for the benefit of all who live within the Empire."

Karnak inclined his head. "Could you elaborate more on this council, Empress?"

"Certainly," Lydia began, her gaze sweeping over each member of the Royal family. "It currently consists of Erik Lehnsherr, known to many as Magneto. He's the founder of the original Genosha, and a strong advocate for mutant rights. Astrid, my advisor, and Magda Gurzsky-Lehnsherr, a human perspective, offer guidance. Emma Frost, a mutant telepath, brings valuable insight to our operations. Tessa, an expert in mutant-human relations, ensures the smooth integration of new citizens. Lastly, Eitri, the head of our new allies, the dwarfs, has recently joined the council."

Lydia paused, allowing her words to sink in. "New Inhumans will be under your care, Black Bolt. However, as the Empress of the Empire, the responsibility for the well-being of all residents ultimately falls to me."

There was a silence as the Inhuman Royals processed Lydia's words, taking in the gravity of their decision and what it meant for their future. The promise of a shared governance was a comfort, offering them a role in shaping their people's future within the Empire. Yet, with it came a new sense of responsibility, a weight that bore down on them as they looked towards a future, intertwined with the Genoshian Empire.

Black Bolt rose from his throne and crossed the room to where Lydia stood. He held out his hand, and the Empress of the Genoshian Empire took it in hers. The symbolism of the handshake was profound; the agreement, sealed with a mutual show of respect.

"Excellent," Lydia said, releasing Black Bolt's hand. "Gather everything that you need within a three-acre radius. This will be our relocation area."

The Royal members shared confused looks, but they moved to execute Lydia's orders without question. Meanwhile, Yelena had a knowing gleam in her eyes, her lips curling into a subtle smile. She recognized Lydia's strategy – a display of power and a testament to her control over the Infinity Stones she held.

As the Inhuman Royals departed, Yelena approached Lydia, falling to one knee and bowing her head respectfully. "Empress Lydia," she started, her voice quiet and hesitant, "I have a request, if I may."

"Speak, Yelena," Lydia replied, a hint of curiosity in her eyes.

"I wish to take a shuttle down to Earth, if that is permissible," Yelena said. She didn't offer an explanation for her request, but Lydia understood.

A knowing smile tugged at Lydia's lips. The Empress knew that Yelena and Natasha Romanoff, the Black Widow, had a bond that mirrored sisterhood. It had been a while since Yelena last saw Natasha. Lydia nodded, approving the request.

"You have my permission, Yelena. But I ask that you return once your business is concluded. We have much to accomplish, and your skills will be needed."

Yelena nodded, gratitude flashing in her eyes. "Thank you, Empress Lydia. I will return promptly."

Lydia's command hung in the air as Yelena left to prepare for her journey, the throne room echoing with the weight of momentous decisions and the promise of monumental changes to come.

Days flowed into each other, the moon's surface marked by the industry of the Inhumans. They adhered to Lydia's instruction, consolidating their resources within the specified three-acre radius. Lydia observed the progress from afar, her eyes revealing nothing of her inner thoughts. She had seen the shock in the eyes of the Inhumans when she announced her intention. Now, the time had come to demonstrate her promise.

In the midst of the gathering, Lydia rose, her regal silhouette radiating with an almost celestial light. Her cloak swirled around her, casting stark shadows on the lunar surface, as she extended a hand toward the ground. The air seemed to vibrate around her, humming with a melody of latent cosmic power as the energies of the Power and Space Stones coursed through her.

An ethereal dome, pulsating with the energy of her power, started to form. The Inhumans watched in awe as it expanded, stretching out over the specified three-acre area. The dome's walls shimmered, refracting the light and scattering it into a kaleidoscope of colors that danced across the Inhuman settlement. Lydia's face held an expression of fierce concentration as she maintained the dome's integrity, the display a testament to her control over the Stones.

The Royal Inhumans watched, their mouths falling open at the raw power Lydia wielded. A mixture of fear and awe gripped them. Medusa, her hair waving slowly around her, broke the silence, whispering, "This... this is her power."

The dome's growth ceased, enclosing the Inhumans and their belongings within it. Lydia then closed her eyes, calling upon the Space Stone energy. In the next instant, the dome and everything within it shimmered, then vanished, leaving behind an empty expanse of lunar land.

Within seconds, the entire Inhuman settlement had been teleported to New Genosha, safely nestled within the realm of the Genoshian Empire. The awe of the Inhumans only grew as they found themselves on a planet teeming with life and potential, their new home promising a bright future under Lydia's rule.

Lydia's command still echoed in their ears: "Welcome to your new home, the New Genosha." The enormity of the decision they had taken was only now sinking in, as they looked around, their old home replaced with a new one, their lives irrevocably changed under the guidance of their new Empress.

The sudden change of scenery was astounding. From the barren, cold surface of the Moon to the lush, vibrant expanses of New Genosha was a sight to behold. Black Bolt took in the sight before him, his eyes wide with amazement. Lydia's power was far beyond what he had ever encountered, even if he were to unleash his destructive voice, he had a strong suspicion it wouldn't be enough against her.

"Remarkable," he signed to Medusa, his eyes never leaving Lydia, "Such power is...beyond understanding."

Astrid, clad in her usual attire of white and silver, approached Lydia casually. Despite the vast power Lydia held, their relationship was casual and friendly, the respect they held for each other evident.

"Lydia, impressive as always," Astrid commented, her eyes lingering on the newly arrived Inhumans. She then turned to the Royal family, giving a slight bow, "Welcome to New Genosha."

The transition into the Genoshian Empire began swiftly and efficiently. Genoshian officials met with the Royal family, detailing their roles in the Empire and what their responsibilities would entail. Black Bolt and Medusa would join Lydia's council, acting as the voices for the Inhumans within the Empire.

As for the Inhuman citizens, they were quickly acclimatized to their new home. Housing, employment, education, and other necessities were efficiently provided by the Genoshian administration, aiding the Inhumans in their transition.

Back in the council room, the Royal family discussed the dramatic turn of events.

"I am impressed by their efficiency," Gorgon noted, glancing out a window at the bustling activity outside.

"They have clearly done this before," Triton added, "and it's not just about incorporating us. It's also about making sure we feel valued and heard."

Black Bolt, his attention on the council room's large screen showing Lydia, signed to Medusa, "We must learn and understand this empire better. We now play a crucial part in it. And more importantly, we need to ensure the well-being of our people."

With a nod from Medusa, the Royal family agreed. Their journey as part of the Genoshian Empire was just beginning. Their challenges, opportunities, and future were now intertwined with this Empire. And they were ready to face this new chapter, together.

***

The bustling streets of New York seemed to welcome Yelena, a stark contrast from the silence of the lunar surface. She moved with ease through the throngs of people, her eyes set on a particular apartment building. She couldn't help but shake her head at how easily she found it.

As she moved, memories of the past washed over her. It was of a younger Nina, her sharp gaze focused on Yelena as they sparred in a secluded training room in Genosha. The intensity of her focus and her grit was apparent, even then. She had always admired Nina's determination.

Yelena's attention was suddenly drawn to a man exiting Nina's apartment. He was young, around Nina's age, carrying a camera. Yelena recognized him as Peter Parker, the boy who became Spider-Man.

"Interesting," she muttered, a curious expression on her face.

Stealthily, she entered the apartment, her trained eyes quickly scanning the environment. What caught her attention was the sight of Nina, bruised and looking worse for wear. She held back a gasp, keeping her emotions in check.

"Nina," Yelena announced, stepping forward. The shock on Nina's face was apparent as she turned to face Yelena. "You didn't even sense my presence."

Nina stared at her, the surprise slowly replaced by embarrassment. She looked away, unable to meet Yelena's gaze.

"I..." Nina began, struggling for words.

"No," Yelena interrupted, crossing her arms. "No excuses. You're trained better than this. You're smarter than this. Now, tell me what happened here. And don't leave anything out."

As she awaited Nina's explanation, Yelena couldn't help but worry for the young woman she had trained all those years ago. The world outside of Genosha was far from simple, and Nina had learned that the hard way. The question now was how they would navigate through it all.

Yelena took a moment to process the information. She had heard of Hydra, the criminal organization that had infiltrated S.H.I.E.L.D, but its recent activities were alarming. The use of Space Stone energy and the deadly SP//G-1 gas were concerning, to say the least.

"So," Yelena finally spoke, her voice soft yet stern, "you played the hero and nearly got yourself killed. Lydia would not be pleased to hear this."

Nina sighed, pain evident in her gaze. "I know," she admitted, "I didn't plan on things going sideways, Yelena. I thought I could handle it."

Yelena studied her for a moment, the sternness softening in her eyes. "We always think we can handle it, Nina. But the world... it isn't always so forgiving."

"The energy core," Yelena continued, "it contained Space Stone energy. It's what powered the facility?"

Nina nodded. "Yes, but the scientist overloaded it before I could find out more. I barely survived the blast."

"And Peter Parker... Spider-Man. He was there?" Yelena inquired further.

"He was the first one on the scene. He... recognized me," Nina explained, "And then S.H.I.E.L.D came. Fury, Stark, Natasha... they took us in. I had to reveal my cover identity and come up with a story."

Nina's hand went to her side, wincing slightly. "The blast... it's the Space Stone energy. It's taking a toll on me."

Yelena moved closer, her concern more evident now. "Nina, you're pushing yourself too hard. You need rest, and you need to heal."

She glanced at Nina's suit, noting the damage. "Your suit, Lydia made it herself with Uru, Vibranium, Adamantium, and Magic runes. It's one of a kind. It's strong, but it isn't invincible."

Yelena sighed, running a hand through her blonde hair. "This... This is a lot to process, Nina. You've done well, despite the circumstances. But you need to be more careful. The world needs you. Lydia... she needs you."

She looked at Nina, her gaze filled with determination. "We'll figure this out. But for now, you need to rest. We'll deal with Hydra, the Space Stone, and everything else when you're better."

The room fell silent, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily upon them. It was a grim reminder of the battles they had yet to face, and the challenges they would have to overcome. But for now, they had each other, and that gave them hope.

Yelena smirked, a spark of mischief in her eyes. "So, Spider-Man, huh?" She playfully nudged Nina, "Do I sense a budding romance?"

Nina scoffed, rolling her eyes. "Don't be ridiculous, Yelena."

"Oh, come on, Nina," Yelena said with a teasing grin, "He was the first one at the scene, saved you from the blast, and he even recognized you. That's more than just hero camaraderie."

Nina blushed slightly, shaking her head. "It's nothing like that. We're... just colleagues."

"Colleagues who spend a lot of time together?" Yelena probed, a glint of amusement in her eyes.

"I've only known him for a short time," Nina argued, "We work together. That's it."

Yelena studied her for a moment, her grin turning into a knowing smile. "You know, you remind me a lot of your father. Always so focused on the mission that you fail to see what's right in front of you."

Nina fell silent, her gaze meeting Yelena's. "What do you mean?"

"I mean," Yelena began, her voice growing softer, "that sometimes, life isn't just about the missions and the battles. It's about the people we meet along the way, and the connections we form. You've formed a connection with Peter, whether you realize it or not."

Nina's gaze dropped, her mind a whirl of thoughts. Yelena watched her, a gentle smile on her face. "Just... consider it, okay? Life is too short to ignore the possibilities."

The room fell silent, the soft hum of the city outside filtering in. Yelena stood, stretching her arms. "Now, I'll let you rest. We can continue this discussion another time."

As Yelena moved towards the door, she glanced back at Nina. "And Nina... don't forget. We're in this together. All of it."

With that, she stepped out into the night, leaving Nina alone with her thoughts.