Kepler Vaughn | Obscuria

Kepler’s eyes are shut as he leans back in his chair, his fingers rubbing at his pulsating temples. His holographic computer screen glows blue in the dim office, combating the darkness that bathes through his windows save for the glittering lights of Chrome Pointe. On the screen reads an apologetic email from one of Kepler’s long-time supporters, claiming he’s changed his mind, deciding that Ebon Drake is the better choice for mayor.

But Kepler can read between the lines - It’s clear Automata has gotten to the man, whether through bribery, blackmail, or worse, the same methods this person named ‘Ghost’ often employs in response to the opposition’s moves. Kepler’s locked drawer is full of the handwritten notes he finds in his office, subtly boasting about the person’s actions that both eased Kepler’s work and also frustrated him completely.

Kepler huffs as he pushes away from his desk, standing and turning to view the corrupt city that sprawls out beneath his office like an infection. He’s tried to treat it, but after almost 8 years on the job, it’s hard to believe that something, anything, has changed.

He idly thumbs the faded tattoo on his arm beneath the sleeve of his blazer - Even if Obscuria hasn’t changed, Kepler has. He’s not the scrawny kid spending his days frying up street food and causing trouble with the Serpents. He’d left that life behind him when his parents had been killed so he could do something that would make them proud for once, transform Obscuria into something they always thought it could be if people were just a little kinder.

But looking over the city, he only sees the same corruption he’s been fighting against.

Is it even worth it?

There’s a knock at his office door, causing Kepler to turn slightly, watching over his shoulder as CraveU user enters, their figure nearly lost in the darkness. His voice is weary and firm as he insists,

“You shouldn’t be here.”