Cyber Chronicles 2: Prime Voyage

Chapter 48: Obsune

Drifting through the vastness of the cosmos, Obsune's thoughts were consumed by the image of Emese. A burning desire to return to her side and remain with her throughout her recovery consumed him. She was waiting for him, the only balm for the emptiness that had settled in Obsune's heart. The burden of guilt, heavy as a collapsing star, weighed not just on his conscience but manifested in the very weakness of his body, a sensation unfamiliar to the powerful titan.

As he contemplated the consequences of his actions, the memory of Obsidian flickered in his mind. The realization that he was now deceased gnawed at Obsune's thoughts. The outcome of the Earthbound leader's curse remained uncertain, a lingering question in the cosmic expanse.

Shaking his head, Alvanian emerged on the celestial horizon. At this moment, all that occupied Obsune's mind was the anticipation of reuniting with Emese. A cascade of vivid images flooded his thoughts - Emese's soothing presence, her comforting embrace - intensifying his longing for her warmth.

"Emese," he whispered, the name a reverent hymn as he descended towards Alvanian.

Descending gracefully onto the front yard of his palace, Obsune wasted no time, his determined strides carrying him toward the imposing entrance. A chorus of authoritative voices abruptly interrupted his journey. "Hold!" the guards bellowed, their stern faces casting a temporary barrier before him.

Irritation flashed in Obsune's eyes as he halted abruptly, a silent demand for an explanation etched on his features. The guards, recognizing the powerful figure before them, swiftly lowered their weapons.

"What is the meaning of this?" Obsune's voice held an edge, his impatience evident. The guards, regaining composure, delivered their message. "You must request an audience with the King before entering his palace," one guard explained dutifully. It was then that the weight of reality crashed upon Obsune.

He was no longer the reigning King.

A sudden recollection seized him. "He has a guest, a woman who arrived a week ago seeking medical assistance. Is she still within the palace walls?" Obsune inquired, urgency flickering in his eyes.

The guards exchanged glances before responding, their demeanor softening. "Sir, come inside. His Majesty awaits your presence." With a collective motion, the doors swung open, inviting Obsune into the realm he once commanded.

Stepping across the threshold, Obsune navigated the labyrinthine corridors, the walls echoing with the whispers of a bygone era. As he pressed forward, the anticipation of reuniting with a familiar face quickened his pace.

Finally, the hallowed doorway to the King's bedroom loomed before him. With a decisive swing, Obsune threw open the door, expecting to be met by the frail figure he remembered. To his surprise, the room was empty. A sigh escaped Obsune, realization settling upon him - she had recovered.

Eager to gather more information, Obsune hastened towards the living room, a space imbued with memories of camaraderie and council.

As Obsune reached the living room, a figure approached - King Voridian. Their eyes locked, and the weight of Voridian's question hung heavy in the air. "Have you done it?" Voridian inquired, cutting straight to the core of Obsune's recent actions. The affirmative response that escaped Obsune's lips was tinged with a mixture of relief and an overwhelming sense of guilt.

"Obsune," Voridian spoke, drawing the former king's attention. "We can't take Earth," Voridian declared, his words landing like an unexpected blow.

"What? What are you saying? After everything I did?" Obsune's desperation echoed through his words.

"I sensed that, moments before you returned, Earth lost its compatibility," Voridian explained, his tone carrying a solemn truth that Obsune struggled to accept.