Chapter 53

Lydia enters her office as she does not need to be in the throne room anymore.

Lydia's office is a testament to her status as the empress of New Genosha and a key figure in mutant affairs. Her large desk, a masterpiece of polished ebony, is strewn with maps, charts, and holographic screens floating in mid-air, each displaying real-time data on every facet of the Genoshian Empire. The place is a complex dance of information, expertly choreographed by Lydia, who moves deftly between the data points, her keen eyes and sharp mind rapidly making connections and taking decisions.

With Eitri and Black Bolt, she's been diligently working on integration strategies and alliance building. For Eitri, this meant setting up new forge facilities on Genoshian territories and ensuring the Dwarf Kingdom's traditional craftsmanship could continue to flourish. Lydia knew the value of Eitri's skills and respected his desire to preserve his people's customs, so she'd been careful to provide him with all the resources and facilities he needed.

For Black Bolt, the situation was different. The Inhumans were a private and secluded people, so Lydia had been treading lightly. She had been working to ensure their traditions and seclusion were respected while also ensuring they had a voice within the Empire.

Lydia is about to jump on a holographic call with Eitri and Black Bolt when Astrid, her chief of staff, holographic image appears into the room. Astrid's face is grave, a rarity for the usually composed and calm woman. It's clear that the news she carries is of utmost importance and potentially a cause for alarm.

Astrid's holographic image flickers with urgency as she delivers the news. Lydia's face hardens, a subtle shift that Astrid, who knows Lydia better than anyone, instantly picks up on.

Astrid continues to describe the incident, her voice steady despite the gravity of the situation. "The Fantastic Four seemed to have opened a portal to a negative universe," she explains. "Upon their return, a large number of unidentified ships followed them through. The ships seemed to have disappeared after exiting the solar system."

As Astrid pauses to let the information sink in, Lydia quietly murmurs a name, almost a whisper, "Annihilus."

Astrid's holographic form stiffens slightly at the mention of the name. The implications of Lydia's words settle heavily between them. "Annihilus, from the Negative Zone?" Astrid asks. Lydia nods, her face a mask of concern. "Yes, it would make sense. Reed's experiment, the ships... it could very well be Annihilus."

"But could we be certain?" Astrid queries, her tone professional but with a hint of worry. "There are other civilizations with advanced technologies."

"True," Lydia concedes. "But how many of those civilizations are ruthless insectoid conquerors who reside in a negative universe? We need to stay alert and ready, Astrid. If it is indeed Annihilus, we need to be prepared for the worst."

"Agreed," Astrid answers, her tone matching Lydia's seriousness. The two of them fall silent, both of them lost in thought, the room suddenly feeling colder, as the threat of Annihilus casts a long, dark shadow over their discussion.

Astrid's face, or at least the holographic representation of it, seems to lighten slightly, as if anticipating Lydia's reaction to the upcoming news. "Well," she begins, her voice hinting at a smile, "On a lighter note, the Nova Corps' assault on the Kree was a success."

Lydia looks up, interest piqued. "Is that so?" she asks, her eyebrow raised inquisitively.

"Yes," Astrid confirms, nodding her head. "With the help of the Guardians of the Galaxy, they've effectively crippled the Kree's ship-building spaceports. The Kree have surrendered."

Astrid pauses, letting the words sink in before she continues. "Their victory has spread the name of the Guardians across the universe."

"The Guardians of the Galaxy?" Lydia's face is a mix of surprise and curiosity. She had heard the name before but never saw the group together. "Can you display a picture of them?"

"Sure thing," Astrid says, her face lighting up even more. An image materializes in the air between them, showing a group of five figures standing confidently against a starry background: Peter Quill, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot.

Lydia takes a moment to scrutinize the image. She recognizes the names, but the faces were different from her memories, especially Peter Quill. Lydia had met him once before his official introduction as a Guardian, but he seems to have changed since then. There was a hardened look in his eyes, something that wasn't there before.

"The same yet different," Lydia murmurs, her eyes lingering on Peter Quill. "Especially Quill."

"It seems that their experiences as a team have brought changes in them," Astrid notes, her voice carrying a hint of respect. "For better or worse, they've grown. And so has their reputation."

Lydia nods, her mind already spinning with the implications. The universe was constantly changing, new players rising, old ones falling. It was a dance as old as time itself. And as the Empress of the Genoshian Empire, it was Lydia's role to keep up with the music.

Astrid's holographic visage twitches with an incoming smile. "I have more," she begins, and Lydia tilts her head slightly, awaiting the news.

"In a surprising act of generosity," Astrid continues, her tone light but filled with the gravity of the information she is about to reveal, "the Nova Corps has offered us a portion of the territories they've won from the Kree."

Lydia raises her eyebrows in surprise, her eyes narrowing as she processes the news. "Well, that's a new one," she says, the corner of her mouth twitching in a half-smile.

Astrid can't help but chuckle at Lydia's reaction. "Indeed, it is," she responds, her voice tinged with humor. "I suppose it's a testament to our...how should I say... our esteemed reputation?"

Lydia rolls her eyes good-naturedly at Astrid's playful tone. But soon, her mind races to comprehend the implications of this new development. More territories meant more responsibilities, more people to govern, more logistics to handle, more delegation to be done... She could feel the weight of it pressing against her mind, a dull headache beginning to form.

"Oh, damn it," Lydia mutters, pinching the bridge of her nose, "This is going to be a headache."

Astrid laughs again, her mirth echoing around them. "Well," she begins, her tone playful, "Heavy is the head that wears the crown."

At this, Lydia bursts into laughter, the sound reverberating in the room. Despite the daunting news, the camaraderie between them lightens the mood. They were a team, and they would face this new challenge together, as they always have.

Lydia releases a sigh and tells Astrid to notify the council for an emergency meeting.

With a simple command from Lydia, Astrid sends out an immediate summons to the members of the council. Her holographic image flickers into existence before each of them, its appearance signifying the urgency of the situation.

"In the name of Empress Lydia Howlett, I call upon the council for an emergency meeting," Astrid announces to Black Bolt and Medusa, who are in the midst of a discussion with the Inhuman Royal Family. Medusa, her hair subtly twitching in response to the unexpected news, looks to Black Bolt. His silent but understanding gaze gives her the affirmation she needs to nod at Astrid's image. "We'll be there shortly," she says, her voice steady.

Next, Astrid's image materializes before Erik and Magda, who are enjoying a peaceful moment in their home. Erik's eyes narrow at the sight of Astrid, a silent question in his gaze. "An emergency meeting has been called," Astrid repeats her previous statement. Erik sighs, a small smile tugging at his lips as he meets Magda's gaze. "Duty calls," he says, standing up, and Magda nods in understanding.

Astrid's image appears before Eitri, who is busy overseeing the operations in New Nidavellir. His brow furrows at her message. "Aye," he says in his gruff voice, already turning to give a final set of instructions to his subordinates before he leaves.

Next, Astrid appears before Emma Frost, who is in the midst of her duties at the Operations Center above New Genosha. Emma raises an eyebrow, her cool composure unshaken. "An emergency, you say?" She asks, her tone curious. Astrid nods, her holographic form flickering. "I'll be there shortly," Emma states, before her form shifts, turning into diamond.

Lastly, Astrid's holographic form appears before Tessa, who is in the middle of overseeing ship repairs. Tessa looks at the hologram, her eyes widening slightly. "Understood," she replies, giving a curt nod before directing her attention back to her work. She quickly assigns her tasks to her assistants before preparing to leave for the meeting.

As members of the council start to arrive at the council chamber, there is a sense of anticipation in the air, especially from Black Bolt and Medusa. They are first to arrive and take a moment to admire the impressive architecture and decor of the chamber, speaking volumes about the rich heritage of New Genosha.

"Black Bolt, Medusa," Erik's voice reverberates through the chamber as he and Magda make their entrance, "Welcome to your first council meeting." Erik gives a nod of acknowledgment, his voice betraying his amusement at their barely concealed excitement. Medusa, always the diplomat, gracefully thanks Erik for his welcome, expressing her appreciation with a nod.

Just as Erik and Magda have taken their seats, Emma Frost walks into the chamber, her diamond form shimmering under the grand chandelier. She greets each council member with a nod, her gaze falling on the Inhuman royals last. "Black Bolt, Medusa," she acknowledges with a cool nod, earning a respectful nod from Black Bolt and a warm smile from Medusa in return.

Tessa enters, her usually stern expression softened by a warm smile as she greets the other council members. She gives Black Bolt and Medusa a polite nod, her gaze momentarily lingering on the king as she recalls Yelena's report of Black Bolt's sonic attack.

Eitri, the last to arrive, enters the room with the clink of his heavy armor echoing through the chamber. He strides toward his seat, the sparks of his eyes meeting the curious gaze of Black Bolt. Despite his smaller stature, there's an inherent strength and resilience about him, a product of the relentless furnaces of Nidavellir.

"What are you gawking at?" Eitri grumbles, his deep, gravelly voice filling the chamber. Black Bolt, silent as always, makes a hand gesture at Medusa, who serves as his interpreter.

"His Majesty has never seen a dwarf before," Medusa translates, her voice a soft counterpoint to Eitri's rumble. Eitri pauses, turning his gaze from Black Bolt to Medusa.

"Really?" Eitri retorts, a hint of disbelief in his tone, "Neither of you?" His expression morphs into a mischievous grin, an unexpected softening of his gruff exterior. "Well, brace yourselves, 'cause you're in for a treat. We're a stubborn lot, and we don't take kindly to prying eyes, even if they do belong to a king and queen."

Black Bolt and Medusa exchange surprised glances, but soon their surprise gives way to shared amusement. They see the humor in Eitri's gruff demeanor, understanding that the dwarf's bark is worse than his bite. They return his grin, anticipating that the council's interactions will never be dull with the dwarf king in attendance.

With all council members present, the chamber is filled with a buzz of anticipation and a quiet respect, each member acknowledging the weight of the decisions they are about to make.

As Lydia enters the chamber, her presence commands the immediate attention of the council. The chamber falls silent, the gathered members rising in unison to acknowledge her. Lydia, with an appreciative nod, gestures for them to sit. She doesn't waste any time and dives straight into the crux of the matter.

"The first order of business today is a serious concern. We've had an incident involving a being known as Annihilus, an insectoid tyrant from the Negative Zone," Lydia begins, her voice steady and firm. Her statement is met with murmurs and intrigued expressions, but also with a few confused looks.

"The Negative Zone? What's that?" Erik inquires, raising an eyebrow. Before Lydia can respond, the chamber doors slide open with a soft hiss, and Astrid strides in, answering Erik's question.

"The Negative Zone is a parallel universe, where all matter is negatively charged," Astrid explains, her voice ringing clear and precise in the room. "It is a hostile, desolate universe, and Annihilus is its sole ruler."

Lydia picks up from there, "A fleet of his ships was seen departing Earth. The trouble is, we lost contact with them. They've seemingly vanished."

The implications of Lydia's words send a shiver of concern through the room. The ability to evade Astrid's state-of-the-art sensors is no small feat; it speaks volumes about the advanced technology at Annihilus' disposal.

"Wait a minute," Tessa interjects, her brow furrowed in deep thought. "These ships managed to escape detection from your sensors, Astrid? That's... unsettling, to say the least."

Emma and Erik exchange worried looks. "If this Annihilus can hide his fleet so easily, what else is he capable of?" Emma asks, voicing the concern that hung heavy in the room.

"The question isn't what he's capable of," Lydia replies solemnly, "but rather, what he's planning to do. And we need to be prepared for whatever that might be."

Lydia outlines her plan with a conviction that bolsters the council's confidence, despite the gravity of the situation. "I propose that we notify all the major galactic powers of this incident," she says. "The more eyes we have on this, the better the chances are of us catching a glimpse of Annihilus."

A heavy silence follows her statement. Erik is the first to voice his concern. "The idea is sound, but we need to be careful," he says, his tone thoughtful. "Revealing too much could incite unnecessary panic. Plus, we don't want to give away our own surveillance capabilities."

Lydia nods at his valid points. "A carefully drafted statement should help manage the response. And, we only reveal what's necessary. The priority is to have everyone on high alert."

Emma raises another potential issue. "We have to be ready for the inevitable politics. Not everyone may be inclined to believe us or take it seriously," she cautions. "Especially if there are existing tensions or disagreements between the powers."

"You're right, Emma," Medusa interjects. "We'll have to navigate these diplomatic waters very carefully. The council must present a united front, and our messaging should be as clear and straightforward as possible."

Black Bolt, silent as ever, nods his agreement to Medusa's words. His silence carries its own weight, underlining the significance of the decisions being made.

"Also, we need to prepare for potential blowback," Tessa adds, her gaze focused and intense. "If this Annihilus feels threatened by our actions, we must be ready to protect ourselves and our people."

Lydia takes in all their concerns, nodding thoughtfully. "These are all valid points. This is precisely why I've called this meeting. We have to iron out these issues before we go forward. Let's work together to refine this plan. We need to be proactive, not reactive, in this situation."

After some time, Lydia nods in acknowledgment to the council's consensus and instructs Astrid to prepare the message for the other galactic empires. The room momentarily falls into silence as the gravity of their decision sinks in.

Lydia then turns to the next agenda point. "We also need to discuss our newly acquired territories," she says, bringing up a detailed holographic map of the region.

Erik speaks first, a thoughtful expression on his face. "We should consider expanding slowly," he suggests. "There are likely cultural and structural differences we need to understand first. Plus, it will give us time to build trust and alliances."

Tessa agrees with him, adding, "Besides, a gradual expansion will also allow us to build proper infrastructure and establish an efficient governing system. Hasty moves could lead to instability."

However, Black Bolt, through Medusa's translation, offers a counterargument. "While I see the wisdom in a cautious approach," Medusa begins, translating Black Bolt's sign language, "we must also remember the potential of these territories. There could be untapped resources and opportunities for trade and alliances."

Eitri chimes in, "We Dwarfs are used to delving deep and fast, but we also value a good foundation. I agree with both points. Why not a middle path? We could scout and survey the regions for potential resources while slowly integrating them."

Emma Frost adds, "And let's not forget the potential backlash from the local population. Any kind of rapid expansion could be seen as an invasion. We need to ensure that our intentions are clear and that we're there to collaborate, not dominate."

As the conversation continues, Lydia listens intently, considering each viewpoint presented before making a decision. The room is filled with thoughtful debates and strategic planning, reflecting the council's shared goal of leading the Genoshian Empire wisely and justly.

The sight of her council engaged in thoughtful debate brings a genuine smile to Lydia's face. Each member, despite their different backgrounds and perspectives, is here for a shared purpose: to lead the Genoshian Empire towards a prosperous and harmonious future. It's a vision Lydia had held for years, and to see it slowly unfold before her eyes fills her heart with a profound sense of accomplishment.

She feels an underlying warmth, a gratifying surge of pride and joy. This council is more than a gathering of wise and powerful individuals; it's a testament to Lydia's dream of unity, of a diverse group of beings coming together for the greater good. It's a testament to her years of struggle and determination, of countless battles fought, both physically and diplomatically, to bring this reality to fruition.

Each voice that speaks, each opinion that is voiced, is a resonating echo of Lydia's tireless efforts. The respect and understanding that the council members show each other, even in disagreement, reflects the culture of acceptance and collaboration that she has worked hard to instill.

And in this moment, she feels a humbling sense of validation. Not just for herself, but for everyone who has ever believed in her vision, for every life that the Genoshian Empire has touched. The vibrant tapestry of their collective will is weaving a future that is brighter and more inclusive.

Taking in the constructive exchange of ideas, Lydia leans forward, her gaze resting on Eitri and Emma. "I agree with both Eitri and Emma," she says, her voice clear and resolute. "We will approach the expansion cautiously, integrating slowly while scouting for potential resources. And we must ensure to communicate our intentions effectively, showing that we're here to collaborate and learn, not to impose or dominate." She concludes, the room responding with nods of approval. They understand the stakes, the delicate balance they must maintain. Lydia's words are not just an order, but a commitment, a promise of their shared vision of progress and unity.

Astrid's head snaps to the side alerting Lydia. Astrid's eyes glow and reports that there is an incoming Asgardian Bifrost Bridge connection.

The council chamber is immediately filled with murmurs and concerned glances. The Asgardian Bifrost Bridge, an ancient form of cosmic transportation, is not something one experiences casually. It signifies an important message or a significant visitor.

Erik, who has not experienced the Bifrost firsthand, leans back, subtly preparing himself. Meanwhile, Emma and Tessa exchange a glance, their thoughts mirroring each other's. An Asgardian intervention is a potential game-changer, to say the least.

Lydia calmly takes this in stride, her eyes never leaving Astrid. "Do we know who's coming?" she asks, her tone as composed as ever.

"Negative," Astrid replies, her optic sensors still processing the data. "However, given the specific frequency of the Bifrost energy, it is likely a messenger from Asgard, not a warrior or a dignitary."

Lydia nods, her mind already calculating the various scenarios this visit could entail. "Well, we should receive our guest with the respect," she states, her voice carrying a note of authority.

Suddenly, Eitri clears his throat, gaining everyone's attention. "It's probably about me," he admits, running a hand through his bushy hair. "When I left Asgard, I didn't exactly ask for permission. And now that I've aligned with the Genoshian Empire, they might want to, let's say, discuss the matter."

Lydia pinches the bridge of her nose, suppressing the surge of another headache. She then looks at Eitri, her eyes conveying a sense of understanding. "Well, we better get ready to discuss then," she says with a slight smirk, turning towards the spot where the Bifrost Bridge connection would materialize. As Empress, she is prepared to stand her ground, to handle this situation with the same determination that has guided her this far.

Lydia teleports everyone to the area Astrid estimates the Bifrost Bridge connection will connect.

The council watches as the figure materializes on the surface of New Genosha, a sparkling cylinder of energy enveloping him before dissipating into thin air. The figure is a tall Asgardian man, garbed in traditional armor and bearing a solemn expression. At first, he struts forward, exuding an aura of arrogance as if expecting the red carpet to be rolled out for him. But the moment his gaze lands on Lydia, his demeanor shifts noticeably.

Her presence, her air of authority, is palpable, causing the Asgardian messenger to falter slightly before regaining his composure. Introducing himself as Heimdall's second, the messenger hands over a parchment, an elegant piece of Asgardian craftsmanship, to Lydia with a slight bow.

Upon reading the message aloud, the council's murmurs grow louder. Odin's request and the subtle aggression in his words do not sit well with the council members. The idea of their Empress being summoned to another realm to explain her actions seems disrespectful, not to mention dangerous.

"We can't just let you walk into a potential trap, Lydia," Erik asserts, his concerns reflected in the faces of the other members.

"Odin's palace isn't exactly a playground, my lady," Eitri adds, having firsthand experience of the Asgardian court.

"And we do not know what kind of tricks he has up his sleeve," Emma chimes in, her icy blue eyes narrowing at the thought of the possible risks involved.

Lydia hears their concerns but remains steadfast. The smile on her face is not one of ignorance or recklessness, but of sheer determination and a touch of cunning. "It's alright," she assures them, her tone soft yet firm. "I understand your worries, but I am not stepping into Asgard blind. I am prepared. And remember, we don't want to alienate potential allies."

With that, she turns to the Asgardian messenger, nodding her agreement to Odin's request. She is ready to face whatever Odin has in store for her. After all, she is the Empress of the Genoshian Empire, a title she does not wear lightly.

Lydia steps onto the scorched earth that marked the destination of the Bifrost, standing side by side with the Asgardian messenger. The air between them crackles with an energy that only serves to heighten the tension that has filled the atmosphere. The members of the council, gathered in a loose semicircle around the Bifrost mark, look on anxiously.

Lydia turns back to face her council members, a twinkle of mischief playing in her eyes. It's a look they've come to recognize over the years, a look that says she has something up her sleeve. But even with that knowledge, there's still a noticeable tension in the air. Their Empress is stepping into the lion's den, and they can do nothing but watch.

Astrid, however, doesn't share the same concern as the others. She recognizes Lydia's smile all too well. Astrid has seen Lydia use that smile before, often just before she turned a seemingly hopeless situation to her advantage. Astrid sighs, a corner of her lips twitching upwards in an almost amused smile. "Well, just remember not to cause too much trouble," Astrid says, her voice carrying a hint of amusement, "Remember, we're supposed to be building alliances, not burning bridges."

"I promise nothing, Astrid," Lydia replies with a laugh, her eyes sparkling with unspoken mischief, "But I will keep your wise counsel in mind."

As Lydia finishes her sentence, the Asgardian messenger raises his hand, and a blinding light envelops them. In a blink, they are gone, leaving the scorched mark of the Bifrost and an anxious council behind.

The council members exchange looks, their faces a mirror of their shared concern. The silence is deafening until it is broken by Astrid, "She'll be fine," she assures them, although the words seem more for herself than for the others, "Lydia knows what she's doing. Now, let's get back to work. There's still a lot to be done."