Cyber Chronicles 1: Crimson's Effect

Chapter 24: Lincoln (Present)

Lincoln found himself standing before a towering structure nestled in the heart of the Upper Imperiale. 

The building, distinct from the military compounds he frequented on the outskirts of Lower Imperiale, stood tall and proud, designated for the city's residents. Placed strategically in the heart of Imperial City, it symbolized a luxurious residence with rents that spoke of exclusivity.

The architecture boasted sleek lines and glass surfaces that glistened under the city lights. A testament to modernity, the building radiated sophistication against the urban backdrop. Its prominence in the cityscape whispered tales of affluence and prestige.

As Lincoln approached, the sliding doors welcomed him with a hushed swish. Inside, an android, indistinguishable from a human, greeted him with a warm, programmed smile. "Welcome back, Lincoln Blaze." The artificial voice resonated with a hint of familiarity. Lincoln acknowledged the greeting with a nod, his gaze already set on the interior.

Stepping into the building's embrace, he entered the elevator, the doors sliding shut with a soft hum. The subtle melody of ambient music serenaded his ears, creating an ambiance that, for a moment, detached him from the realities waiting beyond the building's walls. The elevator began its descent, smoothly navigating the vertical journey.

The sleek panels of the elevator, the ambient lighting that responded to his presence, and the seamless integration of artificial intelligence painted a picture of a world where humans and machines coexisted in harmony.

As the elevator ascended, Lincoln's mind reflected on the rarity of his visits to this place. It wasn't just a residence; it was his true home, a sanctuary amidst the chaos of his dual life. Yet he consciously kept it at arm's length, protecting his family from the dangers that often lurked in his shadow.

Lincoln navigated his mobile hologram, tapping into Naomi's contact. With a purposeful press, he initiated the call, taking a moment to tidy his hair before meeting the camera's gaze. The call connected on the second ring.

Naomi's weary smile graced the holographic screen as she greeted, "Hello."

"Hey, any chance I can come home tonight?" Lincoln inquired, his own smile mirroring hers. He was well aware that his request might be untimely, but it was a pattern he consistently followed.

"Sure, but he's already asleep. Sally invited us to the park tomorrow, and I didn't want Dev to be tired when we leave," Naomi explained.

Lincoln nodded in understanding. "That's okay; I had a feeling he would be asleep anyway," he remarked.

However, a hint of annoyance crept into Naomi's voice. "If you knew, why didn't you come earlier?" she questioned.

"Caught up in things," Lincoln explained. "I'll come to visit first thing in the morning tomorrow. I'll drop you both off at the park, I promise."

Naomi's expression softened momentarily, a fleeting vulnerability that she swiftly concealed. "Whatever... Where are you now?" she asked. Simultaneously, the elevator door slid open, announcing Lincoln's arrival on the 127th floor. Naomi groaned, "Why did you even call me then?" before abruptly ending the call.

Chuckling to himself, Lincoln strolled out of the elevator.

Navigating the corridor, he made his way to the penthouse suite he secured for his family. The atmosphere in the hallway was hushed, with only the hum of the air conditioner breaking the silence—nighttime settling in. Scarlet-toned carpets cradled his footsteps, and above, a ceiling adorned with a beautiful amalgamation of colors resembled an abstract piece of art.

Approaching the last room in the hallway, Lincoln knocked gently, mindful of his sleeping son. Ringing the bell at this hour risked waking him from his peaceful slumber.