UNC018E

**STORIES**

**PREVIOUS**

**ESPAÑOL**

**Emergency meeting.**

Cresat had learned of that meeting from his own intelligence services. The nataclier, ciloner and akapler did not ignore him either and the commodore thought it appropriate to hold a meeting of his own among his allies to talk about it. In this case, the other diplomats immediately agreed on the suitability of that assembly.

"Very well, Mr. Ambassador of Yumlaiance. - He was questioned by his colleague from Nataclia. – We have several questions on the table.

Namely, what the Confederacy will decide regarding Cassiopeia and how that will affect us. – Added the representative of ciloner. –

- And, above all, we have to unite positions to whatever they decide and what that entails, to face it as a whole, four by one. - Finished off the ambassador akapler.-

-I agree with that in full. - Cresat agreed. –

-Well, what is your position? - Inquired the ambassador of Nataclia. – In case of conflict, what will Yumlaiance do?

Although before Cresat could replicate, Ciloner's representative came forward listing.

You, like the rest of us, have three options. The first is to side with the Confederacy, the second is to support Cassiopeia, and the third is simply to be sidelined.

Once these words were heard, everyone kept a thoughtful silence. The commodore judged it wiser to let the rest of his allies speak first. Although no one seemed to want to take the first step.  At last, one by one, they began to declare, the first was Ambassador Nataclier.

It is clear that Cassiopeia has greater military power and is capable of controlling fundamental enclaves in this region of the universe. The Confederacy has ethics on its side, but ethics does not win wars.

-Yes, I share that, but perhaps it is not very advisable to give too much power to those of Cassiopeia. If we join forces with the Confederacy we could easily overtake Tirelius. - Advocated Cresat. –

-Or maybe not. - The ambassador intervened ciloner. - Your fleet grows at every moment. Our intelligence services have reported heavy ship traffic in the vicinity of their planetary system. Dozens of ships. Against that even our combined squads here would not be rivals.

- In my opinion, we don't necessarily have to antages one side or support another. – The representative affirmed akapler. –

-Gentlemen, we are back to being as at the beginning. Cresat said. -

And apparently none of them was going to change their opinions one iota. The challenge was, as had been said, to maintain a common position. Yumlaiance leaned more towards the Confederacy, although not wanting to exhibit a belligerent stance against Cassiopeia, Nataclia was of the opinion of approaching Cassiopeia and trying to dialogue with General Tirelius so that he would renounce the conflict, in exchange for granting him the support of the Quadruple Alliance in many of his demands. Ciloner agreed with this, but without opting so clearly for those of Cassiopeia and Akapler thought it better to stay totally on the sidelines. Thus, the speakers took a break. Cresat took the opportunity to call Yener.

-Come here as soon as possible. - He ordered him. –

- I'm right there right away, sir. - The young man answered immediately. -

In turn, Lora had called the delegates of the Assembly to hold that critical meeting. The first to attend was Dr. Newman, who moved his several arms to gesticulate while, after greeting the hostess, he said forcefully.

-I firmly believe, Madam President, that Cassiopeia must understand that there are certain lines that should not be crossed.

Gina, who officiated as his secretary and personal assistant, moved nervously in her seat waiting for the arrival of the various ambassadors while listening to Dr. Newman. And his mother just answered.

Of course, but we must be diplomatic and take advantage of this change in the general's attitude, not move him to his previous position of intransigence.

-Until now we have always yielded and contemporized with him, and look at what has led us. - Newman denounced. –

At that moment the other delegates came in. Lora decided not to continue with that conversation in order to get the rest to settle. In this way I could already raise the issue with the whole assembly.

At least I have already verified Dr. Newman's opinion. - He thought with little optimism and declared to address the plenary. – Distinguished and dear delegates and ambassadors, welcome to all of you. I have summoned you here so that, together, we may seek the best solution to an extremely serious situation. - He paused dramatically for several seconds to add. The lives and futures of thousands of individuals now depend on us. They are people who are totally helpless and in a painful situation, they ask us for help and we want to give it to them. On the other hand, there is the message of General Tirelius that seems to seek a reconciliation. We have a serious problem. If we provide assistance to political asylum seekers who denounce repeated human rights violations by the general, we will surely miss the opportunity to reach an understanding with Cassiopeia.  But if we do not heed those requests, it would be a sad precedent in order to fulfill the ideals on which this Confederation is based. That is why I wanted to bring you together to see if it is possible for us to adopt a common position when the consul of Cassiopeia arrives.

And after concluding his talk, he waited for the response of his contertulios. It was Gran Testa, representative of Rigel who, taking the floor, declared.

-My constellation has things quite clear, Madam President. We unconditionally support the rights of these people. We consider their allegations to be more than proven. Cassiopeia has committed a number of human rights crimes and we cannot allow asylum seekers to be repatriated. At least for two obvious reasons, the first, surely these conditions of mistreatment will be repeated, and we think that they could be aggravated by reprisals for having made these complaints. Second, if we did not help them, our Confederation would be discredited forever.

He obtained the assent of Dr. Newman and that of some others in the assembly. Although from the other side of the long horseshoe-shaped table that accommodated them, the representative of Andromeda stood up to say.

Perhaps here is an alternative that no one is taking into consideration, and that is that the general has sincerely regretted his actions. Kohler's sun catastrophe may have opened his eyes and he may want to do the right thing. Or at least, that he has suffered pressure from his own with citizens and their representatives in the Senate of Cassiopeia.

Those words caused a thick silence to spread throughout the assembly, even becoming uncomfortable since some delegates really considered that, but others like Newman or Gran Testa could not hide their disbelief and even disappointment.

-Dear representative of Andromeda. - Newman intervened. - I wish to believe that you are very well-intentioned and do not be offended by this, even naïve. I am not unanssuspened that your galaxy is far away and that you have a good relationship with Cassiopeia. I value your optimism and do not take it badly, but I get the impression that you only see what you want to see.

-Maybe the representative of Andromeda is partly right. Tirelius may be incorrigible, but he is not a fool and knows that he cannot suffer an internal wear and tear produced by his opposition. - The delegate of Centaurus intervened. –

-That if I had opposition. - Gran Testa replied, alleging. – Cassiopeia is already more a dictatorship than a democracy. I doubt very much that other parties still have the capacity to counterweight the general's ambition or that they simply dare to do so.

Some delegates immediately replied to that, crossing mutual reproaches about whether or not the parliamentary legitimacy of Cassiopeia was doubted.

Senator Nerus and his progressive party are always trying to oppose Tirelius' far-fetched actions. – Said the representative of Aldebaran. –

- For how long?, that's the question. - Dr. Newman replied, already claiming with a calmer tone but tinged with concern. - I know personally and admire Senator Nerus, I agreed with him right here, when he was Cassiopeia's representative in the Confederacy before Tirelius came to power. He is a good man, wise and prudent. He totally disapproves of the general's actions. But it lacks the strength in practice to oppose. In my opinion, Tirelius tolerates him to give a semblance of democracy to his regime. Together with the traditional Party of Cassiopeia he has the clear majority.

Perhaps what he has done now has been to go too far, even for traditionalists. - Terció the delegate of Rigel. – Therefore, Tirelius may not feel so safe. And that I think, makes it even more dangerous.

-Well, the question is still complicated. – Declared the representative of Andromeda, to sentence. – If we offer reconciliation and do not take into account asylum requests, we will strengthen the general before his own. That will probably contribute to relaxing our difficult relations, Tirelius would have to thank us for that respite but, his inner strength would increase and I do not think there were many desires to oppose him within his planet. But if we break with him and accept those asylum applications we will be calling him genocidal in the face, that may provoke a reaction in his senate, for or against, I do not know. In any case, it would only serve to corner him and a cornered beast is much more dangerous. Your reaction might be unpredictable, gentlemen.

After that reflection, the most absolute silence took over the room. Everyone pondered those words. Finally, Lora had to intervene.

-Dear delegates. This very assembly is divided, I know it is very difficult to know what is most appropriate, but in the end we have to decide between two possible courses of action. Either we deny asylum claims in the belief that Cassiopeia has learned its lesson and that her government will comply with the resolutions on human rights and democracy that this Confederation marks, or we break definitively with that world. The consequences of the latter are already imagined by you. In addition to a new cold war situation that could escalate even into armed conflict, Cassiopeia itself could be destabilized. In that I disagree with the representative of Andromeda, instead of weakening him we would surely strengthen the position of Tirelius. You already know that nothing unites the inhabitants of a planet more than to think that they are surrounded by hostile worlds. Under this pretext, the general could well take advantage of it to increase his power and further harden his methods. And he is a skilled orator, he could convince his own that that is the course of action to follow. Having said that, we can only vote. And the result of this vote will be binding on all of us. Whatever we agree, we must all abide by it, it would be disastrous if the Confederation did not propose a common front. It is the only guarantee we have left. That the general sees before him a group of united planets, that may make him cautious.

-Yes, Madam President, I agree with that. - Declared Newman, who in turn wanted to know. – Another thing that worries me. Do we have any idea of the position of our new friends in the Quadruple Alliance?

-On this issue they have not yet officially pronounced. - Lora answered. –

-Well, it is something very important, suppose for a moment that we vote in favor of granting asylum to these refugees, Cassiopeia gets angry and they take part for Tirelius. - Observed the delegate of Orion. –

After those words some murmurs of uneasiness could be heard. No wonder. Everyone was worried about that possibility. Lora herself stirred restlessly in her armchair, although she immediately called for order.

In any case, delegates, whatever has to happen will happen, and we cannot submit to the demands or preferences of worlds outside it. Only to what we consider most appropriate for our policy. I therefore impo.

So they did, one by one each representative was showing their opinion when Lora asked.

Those who vote to accept the asylum claims of these refugees...

Several hands were raised, those of Grand Testa and Dr. Newman among them. Lora waited to count the votes and after a few moments inquired.

Those who vote to give Cassiopeia the benefit of the doubt and entrust their authorities with the repatriation of these asylum seekers...

And some hands reacted immediately rising, Lora took a few moments to count. He sighed looking around at all the delegates present there and sentenced.

-Tie.

Correspondingly, all the delegates focused their eyes on her. It was Orion's representative who told him.

-Madam President. It all depends on your vote...

Around the same time, the meeting of the members of the Quadruple Alliance was not being easy either. Taking advantage of the break Yener had been able to arrive to have a few words with his superior. Cresat immediately told him, when the boy arrived and greeted him in a firm position.

-Rest, there is no time for formalities. I need you to intervene in the meeting.

"But sir, being a conference of four ambassadors no one else is allowed to enter.

-Don't worry, it seems to me that the rest will do the same. Either I am very wrong or each of them will go for a counselor or advisor. I will propose a quick vote so that these are allowed and we open the sitting.

Cresat was referring to one of the norms that was in the protocols of agreements of the Quadruple Alliance. Many times, given the importance of an issue or the importance of a decision, they only met having one representative per planet. This was done to keep the deliberations and what was said there as secret as possible. It really was a somewhat outdated tradition. Between telepathy, or simply the duty to communicate to their planets what was agreed, there could be many leaks. But that was the protocol. In this case, in addition, any of the ambassadors would be happy to have someone who could advise them, since all without exception had been there for a very short time and were not entirely familiar with that sector of space. Even Cresat himself who arrived shortly after contact. Having Yener who had been the one who established it, it would be a mistake not to have his help. Moreover, with the particular gifts he had, the product of his training with the warrior monks of Somer, he might well obtain additional information by helping himself, who until now had not obtained results in that.

-Telepathy is precisely one of the disciplines that I worked the least. But Yener gives the impression of possessing natural talent in her. And I am still incognito, my true kail rank has not yet to be revealed. Of Yener on the other hand everyone knows that he is Sage of the Kail. Although that will be the first thing my colleagues will object to. - Cresat thought. –

Anyway, he himself had already figured that out. But Yener turned out to be the perfect screen. Doled already talked about it with Azor light before coming. The official mission he was given was to be the new ambassador, but unofficially he had another that could turn out to be even more important. He remembered it well, when, before leaving, Azor Ligero insisted on him.

-Your true degree of senior master of the Kail should not be known, Dragon. - He then told Doled. –

-That's why you trained me secretly, officially it is known that I was barely able to master five disciplines. -Answered the questioned. –

That wasn't uncommon. For many years some warrior monks apparently did not finish their training or abandoned it, so any enemy would ignore their true capabilities. That was very useful to have an advantage, starting from being underestimated.

That strategy was imposed when Skarn Dailin refounded the order. And he himself put it into practice with some of his best disciples who often traveled outside the limits of the monastery and even Somer and even settled elsewhere, in order to avoid what almost came to happen, the total annihilation of the entire order. Perhaps in the past that had more relevance, when some masters of the Kail appeared out of nowhere leading armies against our enemies. Although now. – He commented Cresat to his teacher. –

-Possibly it is now when that way of proceeding will give us the greatest advantage. - Azor Ligero replied, even adding that it sounded cryptic and sinister to his pupil. – Well, we are not the only ones to use this strategy, others also do it, and we must remain vigilant.

Cresat nodded, now he came out of those memories when Yener answered him.

"All right, sir. Whatever you say.

And after being informed of what had happened the young captain yumlaincer set out to enter the meeting room with his superior. Indeed, as Cresat thought, the other ambassadors had also resorted to calling some of his advisers. Yener saw Nerel next to Nataclia's representative.

"I knew it. – The yumlaincer thought. - This type is more important than it implies.

Ciloner's ambassador, who was accompanied by a woman with short brown hair and voluptuous shapes, dressed in the uniform of her world, light blue and navy blue badges, whom Yener identified as belonging to the job of lieutenant, was the one who commented on what everyone was thinking.

-Since we all need a counselor, I think we should vote if we include our advisors and move on to open the assembly. I propose a counselor for each. Votes in favour? - That guy asked. -

At least on this there was unanimity. The four ambassadors raised their hands. Thus, once they were accommodated in their respective posts, accompanied by their advisers, the meeting resumed.

We must reach an agreement to have a single voice. - They were reminded by Ambassador Akapler, accompanied by a tall young woman with almost albino hair and quite thin, dressed in a long orange robe. –

Yener couldn't help but take a good look at it, the same thing she had done before with that other beautiful dark-haired girl. That stylized individual was typically Akapler, in that world gravity was somewhat lower than in Yumlaiance and its inhabitants on average somewhat higher and with less muscle mass. It would seem that it happened in reverse than in Ciloner, where most of them were black hair and stronger bone structure, by withstanding a somewhat higher gravitational force. That is why they were also more robust.

-But that young woman is not of such a strong constitution for what those of her world are accustomed to. - The boy reflected. –

Maybe that might mean something, even though I didn't have time to take care of thinking about it at the time. In addition, he felt a kind of attempt at mental probing. It came from that girl with almost white hair.

A telepathic akapler, I should have imagined it. The same thing that must be that ciloneresa. – It was said shielding itself against that intrusion. –

The truth is that it was a trick, surely when he perceived that he was able to defend himself that individual immediately stopped his attempt. Yener only had to look at her handy to check that she in turn had been watching him. And ciloner's would surely have similar skills.

Or she will be good at shielding her mind. - Elucubró. –

Although out of mere courtesy he refrained from investigating it. And it was curious, since that girl then looked at him and gave him a fleeting smile. It was certainly very appealing, almost seeming to mesmerize with that blue-eyed look as clear as Somer's sky in summer.

I don't know if yours will be natural or learned, maybe it's a human goal. - The boy conjected once again. -

He personally didn't like that at all. In their own world centuries ago, they had investigated how to provide people with powers or abilities that surpassed those of a human being, more longevity, improvements in strength, and even use of the brain. Although some experiments reached such a degree that finally all that was banned in Yumlaiance more than two centuries would have passed.

Wow, I'm starting to think about Omega's time measurements. – He noticed. –

At that moment he noticed Cresat's stern gaze and nodded somewhat embarrassedly. He was letting himself be carried away by those reflections that were not at all appropriate. So he concentrated already on what was being said at that meeting. It was precisely his superior who, taking the floor, declared.

-Dear colleagues and allies. Yumlaiance does not want conflicts with any other power in this galaxy or another. We are not the ones to judge the acts of Cassiopeia, but we will make you see that the Confederation of Omega has our sympathy when it comes to protecting people who demand it.

-Which is like saying nothing at all. - Terció the ambassador nataclier. – Or worse, offend Cassiopeia un needlessly.

"I don't know what you see the offense in. – Declared the ambassador of Akapler. Those of Cassiopeia will surely breathe easy if we promise not to interfere with their affairs.

-That's how we think about it too. - Ciloner's representative agreed. –

So, we could try to interview Tirelius and persuade him to accept those measures by Omega. In the confidence that that would be very well seen by all of us. – Cresat added. –

His colleagues took a few moments to think about it, even addressing their respective advisors. Each delegation then withdrew as they had agreed in such cases, to deliberate. Nerel for his part spoke in confidence with his ambassador and commented.

-Those of Yumlaiance are not so badly on the way. That way we could have Omega on our side, and also retain a good relationship with Cassiopeia. The two of us would see us as intermediaries, friends with a conciliatory spirit.

"Yes, I understand what you mean, Lieutenant Asety. - The ambassador nodded, adding. – And it is not in our interest for Yumlaiance to win us a vote by three to one. It is better to say that they have convinced us with their good reasons than to give them that diplomatic triumph over those of Ciloner and Akapler.

-That's right, Mr. Ambassador, very well seen. - Nerel flatteringly declared. –

On the other hand, Ambassador Ciril Usser de Akapler asked his assistant.

-Leirana de Moer, what do you think?

The albino-haired young woman remained silent for a few moments, barely peeling off her lips, nor did she get to utter a word, however, the ambassador of Akapler smiled.

"Yes, that's what I believe. - He agreed. – Those of Yumlaiance have interests that go beyond the merely diplomatic. But in this case they coincide with ours. I will support Cresat's proposal. Ha ha! How are you Arsany's! - Finished with jovial dye.

The Ciloneresa legation was not idle either. His ambassador also chatted with this young woman with black hair, up to the base of her neck.

- What do you think we should do?

- The most important thing is what we should not do, Mr Ambassador. - She answered him in a velvety voice. – Let's not let those of Yumlaiance and those of Nataclia monopolize the initiative. We would have to dialogue with Cassiopeia and the Confederacy to explore which side we should be on.

That makes sense, but how do we do it without our allies denouncing us for breaching the treaty?

"You can leave that matter in my hands. - The girl smiled. –

After a few more minutes everyone returned to the boardroom. It was precisely Kiril Narn, the Cilonese ambassador, who proposed a vote.

-We refrain from intervening and dialogue separately with both parties so that they can bring their positions closer. In favour?

Cresat raised his hand, as did Usser, finally, Remir Toklos, ambassador Nataclier did the same.

-Well, agreed. - Cresat intervened, to sentence. – As my planet has the rotating presidency, with the approval of all of you, dear colleagues, I will take care to let Omega and Cassiopeia know our decision.

Everyone agreed on it, so it was. Yumlaiance had the presidency and the possibility of making that profitable as the visible head of the alliance. Cresat immediately wanted to address President Lora Dair, but was informed that she was still in session.

They have chosen a bad time to meet. I hope they don't come to any determination before I can talk to her. - The ambassador of Yumlaiance was said. –

Although after a moment, he was warned that the meeting of the assembly of the Confederation had concluded. He didn't lose a moment.

"Please put me with President Dair, ask her to take my call as soon as possible. – He instructed the employees of the diplomatic service. –

Lora sighed in her office. After having cast their vote, things had finally turned to one of the two options. Now it was inevitable that he would think about whether he had done the right thing. He was meditating on it when he got a call.

-Madam President. He is the ambassador of Yumlaiance. Beg for a few minutes of your time.

- Of course. – She answered. -

It didn't take long for commodore Cresat's hologram to appear in the middle of the office. Lora greeted him.

"Good morning, Mr. Ambassador. Tell me. What did I want?

"Good morning, Madam President. I have to officially inform you of the position of the Quadruple Alliance on the Cassiopeia refugee crisis. - His interlocutor replied without dwelling too much on protocol greetings. -

- You will say. - Lora replied. –

And Cresat in effect notified what the response of her interplanetary alliance was going to be, which caused her to breathe a long sigh, although not of relief and in turn inform her interlocutor of the decision reached at the meeting of the Confederation, she later added.

"If I have understood it well, you leave us alone in front of Cassiopeia. - She was allowed to play. –

- You are eleven worlds, I would not call it being alone. - His interlocutor smiled slightly, trying to soften that, to add. – In any case, it is Cassiopeia that will not have formal support for its policy and I certainly think that will make its rulers reflect.

-You are very optimistic. - Lora answered. – And hopefully he is right. In any case, it will not be easy.

-I wish you the best of luck. - Cresat declared to say goodbye. –

Thus the hologram vanished. Lora then called her husband. She needed to tell her what happened and receive her support, not only as her husband but as head of the space police forces. Pierre soon came.

-Here I am. How has it gone? - Wanted to know. –

He used to go to meetings, but this time it was an emergency vote and he didn't have time to attend, worried as he was about checking the ships of Omega's fleet to make sure they were ready for action. In any case, he also did not want to influence any delegate with his presence, since everyone knew what he thought of Tirelius. Although his wife did not take long to tell him everything.

"Well, I think you've done the right thing, what your values and beliefs dictated to you, Flor.

And he used that other, more intimate name between the two, so that she would feel for a moment outside of that position of president that controlled most of her day-to-day life.

"That's what I want to think. - Lora replied with a left voice. – Now, in just two hours, I must convene another meeting, this time with the representative of Cassiopeia, and officially inform him of what we have decided.

"Whatever happens, you know you can count on me in every aspect, as a husband and as a colonel in Omega's police forces. – He declared. –

She put one hand on her husband's and nodded, barely sketching a half smile to answer.

"I know, but this goes far beyond you and me. It is the fate of billions of people and many worlds that could be at stake.

-Maybe you should rest a little. - She was advised by her worried husband. –

"Thank you, but I'd rather stay busy. I have to prepare an institutional statement and if I went to sleep a little I would not wake up in days. - Lora declined. –

Pierre stroked his wife's hand and broke away from her nodding.

-I leave you for a moment. Then I see you at the meeting. – He commented.

The president was once again left alone with her own doubts and fears. However, true to his determination, he would leave both behind when the plenary session began and act decisively. The entire future of the Confederacy could depend on that.

What is least to be shown to the consul of Cassiopeia is weakness. - It was said. – Both he and his boss Tirelius are like the sharks of Earth. They smell the blood for miles.

He remembered that example and thought for a few moments about Mother Earth. I remembered her from their honeymoon, when she and Pierre were just a couple of young men full of illusions. Her husband had just been promoted to captain and she was in the land diplomatic legation. That is why he wanted to have his honeymoon there, since when he got married he had requested the transfer to Omega. This came accompanied by the promotion to head of internal affairs of the planet.

-The Earth is very beautiful. Our home world. The one that has given us our values of freedom, equality and solidarity. We cannot betray those values. They are the cornerstone of the Confederation. – He reflected. –

          And that he had tried to do all his life. Although politics used to be merciless and very harsh. Unfortunately those with nobler and more altruistic ideals, who had too many scruples or were not prone to subterfuge, did not usually succeed. I had had the opportunity to see him in many cases. Therefore, she considered herself a rara avis, an exception to the rule and as long as she was the president of the Space Confederation based in Omega, she would not allow the ambitious, tyrants or immoral to get away with it.

"At least as far as my power reaches. – It was nuanced. –

In Yumlaiance Yener's legation is uneasy. He had noticed that the other ambassadors of the Quadruple Alliance had brought their own special advisers. Above all, he was struck by that girl so tall and albino hair.

"That girl was as tall as I was, and her telepathic abilities were quite developed. Maybe at the level of Kira's. - I thought. –

It was not at all strange that an Akapler had a high stature. The inhabitants of that planet were at least several dichromes taller on average than the yumlaincers. And as for that metal capacity, it was feared that it was a human goal the same as the ciloneresa.

-On that planet, improvements of this nature have not stopped. - He remembered. – And that girl is very beautiful, she looked cold as Kalte's ice.

The Akapler were a rather discreet and unemotional people, yes. Fortunately lovers of tranquility and very given to isolate themselves from other planets. They were not like Nataclia's, these were also cold and mysterious, but in a bad way. Or so Yener and most of her compatriots believed. While the Natacliers seemed to always be plotting something, and jealously guarding their secrets while trying to discover those of others, Akapler's simply showed no interest other than to preserve their tranquility and let no one disturb them. They had a reputation for taking care of their business only. So much so that many times they went free in the Quadruple Alliance, and it gave them the same support to some than to others.

-As long as they leave them alone, those guys don't care about us or the Natacliers. – He thought. – Although they may prefer us because, unlike those of Nataclia, although we are closer we are not too interested in what they do.

Akapler was located in a solar system adjacent to that of Yumlaiance and was even closer to the neutral zone than the world of Yener. They shared with the yumlaincer and the rest the suspicion for those of Nephraler, in addition to being closer to them. Therefore, they were natural allies of Yumlaiance.

-At least in that, we are calm, we can count on them. – The boy said to himself. And as for that Akapler beauty, I wouldn't mind trying to melt it into a more intimate gathering.

           Then there were Those of Ciloner. With that world Yumlaiance got along well. Although also Nataclia seemed to have a certain degree of affinity. They were closer to each other. The Cilonerese had that reputation for being persevering, or rather stubborn. On the good side, if you earned their friendship they would always honor the covenants and stay true to the covenants. As Yener had seen before, in their physique they were almost the opposite of those of Akapler, of average height shorter than the yumlaincer and more robust constitution, so he immediately remembered that girl who accompanied the ambassador ciloneres.

-Too graceful and tall to be one of them. It may be mestizo.

And although he did not seem to possess telepathic abilities, he was impenetrable to a slight attempt at polling by Yener, shortly before concluding the meeting.

-Of course, beautiful she was. – The boy had to admit. –

Although it was immediately censored. I was already doing it again! It was thinking about those two women in the meeting and wishing I had a chance to ask them out.

"At the end of the day, Gina is dating that idiot. - Sighed with disenchantment. – I have nothing to reproach myself for it. And it's also not a good idea to try something with one of my subordinates.

He couldn't help but remember Menera Delaier then. Although this one also had a partner. Surely he would be one of those guys just out of the academy. Perhaps if he had not ascended so quickly he himself could have been a candidate to date that beautiful young woman.

-Anyway, it will be better for me to focus on my tasks. – It was said. – I have to make a patrol exit with the Dureor.

And it didn't take long for him to go on his cruise. He liked to be in command of such a ship, for its power and size it was certainly one of the best in the fleet in its category. Being a heavy cruiser it also had an escort group consisting of three light cruisers and a couple of supply ships. So almost more than a captain, he was acting as a commodore.

-I don't think they will promote me so quickly, and I'm not going to take out the entire tactical wing either, we would be almost out of ships.

So he chose to go on his flagship along with only a light escort cruiser.

-Nor are we going to get too far away. – It was said. –

When he arrived, he immediately ordered to prepare for the departure. His friend Larus was there, and Yener greeted him before commenting.

-Routine patrol, go informing the staff.

Although he immediately looked sideways at another officer of higher rank than his own and reminded him of his friend.

Maybe you should give those orders to Major Lagust. Or rather, To Commander Kirel, they are your deputy officers.

-Of course, it's true. - Yener smiled. –

And it is that he was accustomed to addressing his partner since they left the academy, since they occupied similar positions. While Yener was from the command corps, more suitable for interventions on planetary surface. Larus, on the other hand, was a fleet officer, that is, dedicated more to manning ships and space actions. Although the two bodies could perform the functions of the other. However, it was true what Larus had told him, in addition to being his third and second officers respectively, both Major Taren Lagust and Commander Enir Kirel, were officers of the space corps, with their dark blue warriors to attest to it. So he repeated those orders to them and both, after greeting, set out to execute them.

-Departure in a dicrom, captain. - Kirel informed him. –

-Very good. - He nodded, ready for that walk. -

And his ship went out punctually to tour a few nearby solar systems. In Omega, a couple of hours had already passed since their meeting and Lora had to convene the assembly again, this time with the inclusion of the consul of Cassiopeia who had arrived minutes before. The president herself went out to receive him at the astroport, accompanied by Colonel Larans.

-I hope you had a nice trip. - He wanted him as soon as he saw him get off his ship. –

-Oh, yes, thank you very much, the truth is that on board this magnificent interstellar ship one does not notice at all the fatigue of the journey. - The questioner answered. –

The truth is that both Lora and Pierre could not help but be amazed at the magnitude of that ship. They calculated that at least it should measure a kilometer and a half in length by almost a hundred meters in beam. And what was even more unheard of. It landed on Omega and took off as if it were a dragonfly. A combination of power, agility and a more than remarkable armament with particle cannons, photon torpedoes, laser and gamma beams among others to complete the panoply. That's why the president sighed. He should measure his words very well at the meeting to communicate to the representative of Cassiopeia what had been decided.

"And I don't think he's going to like it. – He thought. –

At least they accompanied him to the headquarters of the confederation where the rest of the delegates were arriving. Lora settled in her presidential chair with Pierre by her side. After a few moments for everyone to settle in, the president and moderator began the meeting.

-Dear delegates representing the planets of the Confederation. - It began with everything serious and almost solemn. – We are meeting in plenary session to discuss a matter of the utmost importance. As everyone knows, the kohler sun exploded caused a humanitarian crisis unprecedented in the history of this Confederation. I am pleased to say that we rose to the occasion and that we mobilized as never before in a great rescue mission. After a difficult beginning, undoubtedly due to misunderstandings with the authorities of Cassiopeia, in whose sector of influence is the constellation of the Tritons...

Everyone listened with great interest, even the consul of the aforementioned planetary power. And Lora continued.

Tens of thousands of lives were finally saved. After clarifying some thorny issues, the authorities of Cassiopeia helped us to repatriásn most of their fellow citizens.

Naboth himself nodded approvingly to these last words, but Lora immediately made his tone more serious to add.

Unfortunately, we now have a not-so-simple problem to deal with. The situation of the refugees of the Tritons is complicated and despite the help of Cassiopeia there are some complications. The most serious of all is the large application for political asylum applications that we have received.

And then he was silent, as if waiting for the consul's reply, a fact that, in fact, took place when he asked for the word that was immediately granted to him.

-Dear President and distinguished delegates. We fully understand your difficulties and appreciate your collaboration. Cassiopeia will not ignore its obligations to its citizens. We are willing to take care of all the Cassiopeans who have found refuge here. And those referred to as political asylum seekers will surely be part of the community of criminals convicted by our courts in all fairness. For that reason among others, I have come. I would like to clarify the situation and tell you that you have been vilely deceived. Do not believe those who denounce all kinds of outrages. Many were held, it is true, but serving their sentences with hard labor, and thus allowing them to redeem their sentences at a much higher rate.

That in turn provoked a murmur among some of the representatives of the Confederation. Lora had to intervene to regain silence.

-Gentlemen, everyone will be able to take the floor whenever they wish.

And it was Dr. Newman who soon requested the use of this by raising one of his four arms. Lora granted it without delay.

Mr Consul, are you going to say that the people who have applied for asylum for themselves and their children are criminals? Can you explain to us how it was possible that there were children among the refugees?

-You will see. - Naboth responded, showing an incipient irritation. – There are many criminals who camouflage themselves under false identities. And as for those children, it is clear that they will be the children of workers who went there with a contract in order and who will undoubtedly have been separated from their families. That is why I draw your attention to the fact that many of these criminals could be using them to deceive you.

All that will be determined in due course. - Lora intervened who wanted to prevent that from happening to adults and declared with a conciliatory tinge. - We take good note of the explanations of the representative of Cassiopeia.

Mr. Naboth then rolled up in his seat and allowed himself to testify.

Cassiopeia only wants good understanding with the planets of the Omega Confederation. As you have seen, I have gladly come to offer you explanations and to answer your questions. In turn, I require you, on behalf of my government, to give us all our citizens so that we can give them back to our planet. Including those who have applied for political asylum, in our view, have done so without any basis or reason for such a claim.

After those words a thick silence spread through the room. No one seemed willing to reply. Dr. Newman and Gran Testa gave him looks of disbelief and discomfort. It had to be Lora, in her capacity as president, who responded.

-We have listened to the Request of the Consul and we are going to vote on it accordingly. - Sentenced. –

And without further delay he asked.

Those in favor of granting political asylum to applicants who raise their hands.

And immediately the representatives of Scorpio, Rigel, Hydra and Aldebaran raised theirs.

- Those who are against it? - Lora wanted to know. –

Likewise, quick to raise their arms were the representatives of Andromeda and Centaurus, along with of course, the consul of Cassiopeia and somewhat more reluctant but who finally joined them, was the delegate of Auriga.

-Very good. - The president nodded who questioned the rest commenting. - I must understand that the other representatives abstain. Isn't it?

This was confirmed by the other delegations, including crab, Sirius and still to be voted on. Sighing at that crossroads, Lora declared.

-As you all know, in this case the abstentions will be counted to be added for practical purposes to the majority.

"But there is a tie. - Nebot intervened, with a triumphant half smile. -

In this circumstance the vote would be null and void and the rules indicated that the proposal would not be taken. That would satisfy Cassiopeia when those requests for asylum were null and void, however, Lora went to the consul of that planet and reminded him.

-I have not yet cast my vote which is also of quality. That is, it is worth double in case of a tie. However, that will not be necessary in this situation.

And after taking a deep breath, knowing the one that would come upon her, Lora sentenced.

-My vote is for the granting of asylum to all political refugees who request it, I think it is the duty of the Confederation, to provide protection to any person, if it thinks that their rights can be violated. Thus, it would be five votes against four, by simple majority and adding the abstentions seven against four, absolute majority.

- This is an outrage! - Consul Nebot exclaimed, standing up like an exhale. –

- Please respect the result of the vote. - Doctor Newman intervened. –

It is you who do not respect Cassiopeia, calling into question our laws and our legal system. I will report this immediately to the general. And I can already tell you that you will not be at all pleased when you know it. - Nebot said without concealing his anger. – We contest that vote, there has been no absolute majority and I do not see why abstentions should be aligned in favor of the majority.

-It is the regulation, Mr Consul. - Lora patiently replied. – When an absolute majority is not reached, abstentions are added to the proposal with the most votes, you know this perfectly well.

The tense expression of his interlocutor did not denote anything good, and unfortunately that was confirmed when he replied with an open tone.

"I'm not going to stay here to continue enduring this indignity. You will already have news of ours.

And without further a hitch, he made great strides out of the assembly. For a long time no one spoke, everyone looked at each other with obvious stupor and concern. Finally it was Lora who, once again, had to take responsibility for addressing the rest of the Assembly.

-Delegates, the vote was entirely legitimate.

"But now Cassiopeia could return to the previous situation. - The restless representative of Auriga intervened. –

We cannot subordinate our values and the spirit of the Confederation to the tantrums of the representative of Cassiopeia. - Gran Testa answered. –

You seem to forget that these tantrums could bring us terrible consequences. – The representative of Andromeda intervened in turn. –

Once again, silence among the delegates. Now it was Dr. Newman who broke it to sentence.

-Each thing in its own time. Before we fear the worst, let's wait for Cassiopeia's official reaction.

-Hope for the best and prepare for the worst. - The delegate of Aldebaran told him, reminding him of an old adage. –

Lora decided to end the meeting. She should inform her husband and the rest of the space police authorities so that surveillance could be strengthened. For his part, Naboth soon made his leader aware of what had happened. Although to his surprise, he didn't take it too badly.

-That reaction of Omega was within my plans. - He commented, with a tone more analytical than enraged, to add. - Your reaction has been fine. On the one hand, it will have left them worried without us having to do anything yet. On the other hand, they will surely increase their patrols and reinforce the areas they consider most dangerous, with our common borders. That is why we will give them precisely what they want. I will send a squadron of nautilos and another of murenas to keep them busy.

"All right, boss. Are we going to attack? - The consul wanted to know without concealing his desire for it to be so. –

Now Tirelius snapped at him, with a tone between angry and reprobate.

- Don't be stupid! What I want is to distract your attention. No attacks, only military presence, that will suffice. And as long as we keep the space police forces busy in that sector, our friends will have time to conclude their preparations undisturbed. There is little left for us to show our cards. Now, get ready to travel to meet them.

-At your command, general. - Naboth replied submissively. –

Days earlier, Kira had said goodbye to her family and was determined to ask the president for a favor. He didn't forget what he talked about with his cousin Elisa. She told him.

So you really want to visit the asteroid belt of the Earth's solar system.

"That's right, I always wanted to do research there. I will ask the president for permission to use a patrol ship.

"I don't know if that will be possible. - Her cousin sighed. –

-I will only ask you for a small ship and for a short time. - She explained. –

- Are you sure that things are like for sightseeing? - Elisa wanted to know. –

-It is to investigate my thesis. - His interlocutor repeated to him, claiming something in a hurry. - The director of the geophysics service has not been able to help me. He promised me, of course, that he would try to request the corresponding permission from the president or Colonel Larans. That he would go talk to one of them. I have not been able to locate the colonel, he is inspecting the construction of those heavy cruisers for the fleet. So I will ask the president to receive me.

"I don't know, Merceditas, Maybe things aren't like venturing alone through space. - Elisa objected. -

Mercedes could feel the worry in her cousin. After what happened in the Tritons and when they still had no idea what Cassiopeia was going to do, he went to talk to the president. She was very busy preparing a meeting of the Confederation Assembly. Despite this, he was very kind to receive her and dedicate a few minutes of his time to her. Before the hour, he went on to greet Professor Master. That sage was making some improvements to Copito who, with obvious humor, feigned a human laugh as he said.

- Ha ha! It tickles my feet. –

Just then Peter arrived with his arm in a sling. The young man was recovering from injuries he suffered on his last mission.

- That's it. - The professor declared. – The operation is over. Well, how is your arm, Pedrito? - He wanted to know with kindness. -

- There is no fracture which is the important thing, the muscles are a little battered, but soon as new. - The boy replied. –

- Does the wound hurt a lot? - Enius was interested. -

-A little bit. - The boy admitted. –

Despite having very advanced means to regenerate tissues and accelerate healing, there were still things that were better to let heal by themselves.  Kira then commented to him with a tone between admonitory and funny.

-You looked for it. – And in the meantime he affectionately surrounded the young man's shoulder with his left arm, resting his head on his chest. –

Yes, next time I promise to listen to your intuitions. - He secured for the umpteenth time. –

-Well, the next time we go there, it will be, according to Council reports, a hundred million years from now. - She commented with humor. –

The professor agreed to that, and then asked his android to do a demonstration.

- Let's see what remedy, here I go! - Exclaimed this one coming back on the flight.

Luckily the laboratory and work area of the teacher had a lot of spaciousness and a very high ceiling. Copito was able to rise and unfold a pair of seats that his creator had installed for him.

- What do you think?, in case of need you will have much more comfortable seats. - The teacher told them. –

"Yes, here I am, turned into a saddle of space, a flying bicycle, with my brain with my wisdom, it is an injustice! - The android protested. -

-Go, stop complaining. - He was ordered by his creator. –

              Peter and Kira laughed, the latter at last, already serious, told her partner.

"I have to go talk to the president. I want to ask you to allow me to go on a trip, to explore the asteroid belt.

-Wow, you keep thinking about that project of yours. Isn't it?

She nodded, Peter immediately offered to accompany her.

-It is better that you stay and rest, it will not be a great adventure. All the more observing cataloguing large asteroids and doing geological analysis to see if I can get proof of my study hypotheses.

-What I call spending a fun vacation. - He laughed. –

The girl shook her head smiling, said goodbye to her friends and went straight to the office. It was already going to be the time when I had stayed. Once she arrived, Lora passed her by and asked her to sit down.

"Well, you will say, lieutenant. - His hostess told him. –

"I am very sorry to upset you, Madam President. - He apologized in advance, to state his request now. But the director of the geophysics service has told me that only you can help me.

Indeed, she had spoken to the person in charge of this area before, but the questioner could not help her in what she needed.

"Yes, he himself has conveyed his request to me. Lora admitted that just a few moments before the arrival of the young woman had received a message informing her of that matter. - But please note that using a spacecraft out of service is against our regulations.

-The smallest of the ships, ma'am. The smallest one would suffice for me. There must be a way to designate me for that mission of character, let's say a little special. - Kira begged him. -

"We'll see, explain your intentions to me. - Lora asked him, who was really interested in what Kira wanted to do with that ship. -

The alluded to nodded, going on to detail her purposes.

Listen to me, in space there is a mystery that, as a geologist, I have always been passionate about. Somewhere in the Solar System, between the orbits of Jupiter and Mars. Half a billion kilometers from Earth, lies the asteroid belt. According to certain theories it is stellar debris that could not be amalgamated on any planet at the time of the evolution of the Solar System. According to other hypotheses there was a planet there and millennia ago there was a great battle between two galactic powers. Believing that their enemies had found refuge on that planet, the victors, who possessed astonishing technology, decided to blow it up. The pieces are the asteroids. The fugitives had actually taken refuge on another planet in the system, Earth, giving rise with their arrival to a multitude of legends. Our means may allow us to know precisely the age and nature of each stone and also its origin. If the second hypothesis were to be tested, it would undoubtedly mean the existence somewhere in the cosmos of an old civilization of tens, perhaps hundreds of thousands of years, endowed with fabulous knowledge. I have a month's leave and I would like to go and see if you would allow me to do so, of course.

Lora listened with visible attention and a gesture of approval. Of course, this girl did not cease in her efforts to uncover enigmas. And with great satisfaction he replied while the nervous girl was now walking around the office.

-The team you form with Lieutenant Pedrito has obtained excellent results, sometimes very important in your last expeditions and you have personally rendered great services to the Confederation, you have more than deserved a reward.

Kira couldn't help but a faint exclamation of joy, that made Lora smile who continued.

-The general situation seems calm. Our powerful neighbors in Cassiopeia behave so prudently that they even disturb me.

That was true, of course, at that time, before talking to the consul and exposing the meaning of his vote on the issue of petitioners for political asylum, Cassiopeia was being the paradigm of tact and good neighborliness. In addition, the area of space where Kira planned to go was not a place of direct interest for General Tirelius. Therefore, Lora riveted.

You will have a ship, but I don't like the idea that it travels alone through space.

- I had thought about taking Copito. - The girl told him. -

-Very good. - Lora nodded. - You can have a small spacecraft of the space transshipment type. It will be enough for that task.

Thank you very much, Madam President. - Kira smiled. –

His interlocutor then told him with a more serious tone.

Now, if you excuse me, I must prepare for a meeting.

"Sure, I won't steal any more time. Thanks again. - The young woman said, leaving the office. –

He didn't miss a moment going to Professor Enius' lab and asking him to lend to that android.

-For me there is no inconvenience. - Granted by the professor. –

-Yes, and it will be something more interesting than staying here to be remodeled as a transport vehicle. - Copito declared. –

With that said, the android followed Kira to the takeoff zone. The girl spent some time preparing the equipment she wanted to bring, as well as emergency rations and survival equipment.

-First of all caution. - Commented. –

- That's it. - The robot nodded. –

And once all the preparations were finished, they left in a tiny ship that, with only about four meters in length, was nevertheless suitable for making small jumps in hyperspace and, above all, small enough to be able to travel through the asteroid belt with some security of transiting them without problems, since it needed very little place to pass between them. This is what they talked about during the journey.

-Not bad this little ship, it will be called the flea of space. - She was baptized Kira. –

-It will be better that we call it the space-flea. - Nuanced Copito. –

- As you wish. - The girl indifferently replenished. –

- Oh! - The android exclaimed unexpectedly. -

- What's wrong with you? - Kira wanted to know. –

It was the bad thing about not being able to read the mind of an android. Of course, his gifts of telepathy had no effect on apositronic brain.

"I'm very uncomfortable, they have arranged me for their comfort, but who thinks of mine?" Do you want to tell me? So much traveling on my back that I don't really know what I'm for anymore - The robot complained. –

"Stop protesting, do you want to?" You are very burdensing. - A funny Kira replied. –

In truth, I could not understand how it was possible for an android to become so curmudgeonly. Possibly Professor Maestro had done a magnificent job with Copito's sensitivity circuits, these possibly warned him of the new mechanism that had been installed and the android's brain processor interpreted it in a way equivalent to how humans noticed a discomfort. It was certainly an exciting subject. If he thought about it, he remembered that revolt of the robots of the planet Leto.

- To what extent will they be able to feel emotions that can be described as real or simply be program subroutines that are installed to favor their interaction with us? - The young woman wondered. –

And her companion surely still wanted to "interact" with her, since she said.

-In addition, I also have the right to vacation.

- Would you have preferred to stay in Omega? - The young woman wanted to know. –

"I'll answer you on the way back. - Copito simply replied who sentenced. – I am always cajoled talking about adventures and nothing important ever happens.

- Don't you think you exaggerate, Copito? - The stunned Kira inquired. –

-Well, almost nothing, or very little. - Answered his interlocutor who, encouraging his mechanical tone, admitted. - Ah yes, Goldenberg, that was a lot of fun, I have to admit. It was hilarious.

The girl shook her head with a faint smile. At least he wouldn't be bored with Copito there.

-We will move to hyperspace to place ourselves near the solar system. - He said to the android. –

So they did and after a few minutes they emerged already in the area of the giant gaseous planets.

-We are already close. - Kira commented. –

At Omega meanwhile, Gina was finishing her day. To her surprise, a very tall and thin young woman with a pale complexion approached her after slowly entering her office.

- Can I help her? - He asked the stranger. -

"Excuse me, is this Omega's legation?...

Gina looked at her stunned, she would swear that she hadn't heard her speak, but those words had resonated in her mind. At last, that young woman allowed herself to smile slightly and then she did articulate audible sounds with a rather particular sound, between soft velvety and something reverberant.

-Sorry. He was looking for Captain Rant.

- Captain Rant? But this is the legation of the Confederation in the embassy of Yumlaiance, the embassy itself is there. - The confused Gina replied by indicating to her interlocutor a nearby corridor that reaches a building located a few meters away. –

-Excuse me if I have been wrong. I thought I would be here. – That woman declared. – Thank you and see you soon, Miss Larans. - He said goodbye. –

And Gina saw her walk away in the direction of the Yumlaiance embassy. Although he immediately thought strangely.

- How do you know my last name?

However, he immediately smiled and moved his head. His name was on the table in his office.

-You must have read it. - Concluded. –

She also wondered who that individual would be and what she would want from Yener. Surely she was from another planet, she did not give the impression of being a yumlaincer, although she did not know the people of that world too well, but something told her that she was not from there.

"Besides, he didn't seem to know where Yener was. He confused my legation with the embassy. - He reasoned. –

He assumed that it would be some other diplomat from a world allied with his, or perhaps some appointment. That bothered him a little, although he immediately reproached himself.

"He can date anyone he wants, I do it with Gordon.

She decided to leave that and continue with her things, she had little left and she was going to see her boyfriend when she finished. His brother Peter curiously passed by, he was with one arm in a sling, courtesy of his penultimate adventure.

- How are you? - He wanted to know. –

-Busy. - His sister smiled explaining. - I have a couple of things left to do before I leave. How are you?

"Well, boring. - The boy affirmed with a jovial tone. -

-It will be that you have to get into some mess to hang out. - Gina joked, asking him. - Haven't you stayed with Kira?

-He has gone to do a kind of research, to the asteroid belt. At least that's what I wanted. He went to ask Mom's permission to see if he would lend her a ship.

"I hope our mother will leave it to her. He has more than deserved it. - The young woman wanted. –

- Fancy a drink when you're done? That's how we talk about brothers' things. - He proposed. -

"Then I met Gordon. - She told him. –

In that case, I don't want to be a hinob. - Peter smiled. –

Gina was going to respond when the two saw that tall, blonde girl she had seen before pass by. Peter was certainly perplexed to look at her with obvious interest.

- Ahem! - His sister coughed his sister simulated to get his attention. –

- What a beautiful and tall woman! - The boy declared. –

"Yes, he stopped by before asking about Yener. - Gina told him. –

- Jolin with Yener! - Peter smiled. –

It was to make that exclamation and the two watched as that girl was once again heading towards them, entering Omega's legation. She approached with a smile that made her even more beautiful. Peter certainly did nothing but watch her when her eyes crossed with his. They were of a strange shade between gray and azure blue.  Gina instead asked him directly.

- Could you see Captain Rant?

"Unfortunately I was not in your embassy. - That girl replied who added. - I came to ask him for a favor. If you see it, please tell you that Akapler's cultural attaché wanted to make an appointment.

-Of course Miss...- He replaced Omega's by screing his eyes a little as if he were waiting for some more information.

- Leirana de Moer. - Then completed that young woman. –

"This is my brother, Lieutenant Peter Larans. From Omega's space police. - He was introduced to Gina, mostly for education. –

"Much pleasure, Miss. - The boy said. –

The Akapler smiled once again, and replied.

-Enchanted, lieutenant. Now with your permission I must leave you. Thanks a lot.

"Yener, I mean, Captain Rant, is a friend of ours, as soon as we can we will give him his errand. - The boy hurriedly said. –

-I thank you very much. – Riveted the girl leaving the legation. –

Of course, Peter dedicated himself to observing how he walked away with that suggestive hip twitch that marked when walking. It was Gina who told him almost with disapproval.

-You have failed to offer to carry her in your arms.

"Well, woman, you have to be kind. - He replied by shrugging his shoulders to add. – Diplomacy, it's your thing, isn't it?

His sister sighed by shaking her head. Good thing Kira wasn't in front!

-It is that all men are equal. At least Gordon wasn't here, or surely he had also sipped his mind. - She thought between stunned and even funny. –

Peter soon took her out of those reflections when she commented in a casual way.

-I have to go now, enjoy the evening with Gordon.

And Gina saw him marching around his head. Meanwhile, on the cruiser Dureor, Yener was finishing her routine patrol. Along with Larus Daet and Menera Delaier on the command bridge, among other officers.

-Everything in order, there is hardly any activity. - Menera notified him. –

-Stay the course. We will be back shortly. - Yener told them. –

-My captain. I detect something in quadrant two. - he was then informed by one of the navigation officers. -

- What is it? - He wanted to know. –

-Possibly a ship. - The questioner answered. –

-Try to approach and put it on the screen. - ordered Yener. –

So it was done, on the large front screen they could see a kind of bright triangular shape that no one recognized. It was Major Lagust, a veteran dark-haired officer with incipient gray hair, who commented.

-I do not recognize that type of ship. Could it be from the Confederation?

- We will have to check it. Commander Kirel, another middle-aged officer, and ash blonde hair intervened, devoting a scrutinizing look to Yener. –

He nodded. Sorting to line followed.

"Ensign Delaier, call that ship. Transmission in all known bands and frequencies.

-To order. - He immediately replied to this one, going on to say. - Here cruiser Dureor, from the Yumlaiance fleet, we require identification, please.

There was no replica, moreover, that ship accelerated away.

-Do not lose it. - Ordered Yener. – Lieutenant Daet maximum acceleration in linear space.

-Yes, sir. - He answered laconically this one, focused on executing the instructions. -

The cruiser increased its speed almost to the limit of making a dimensional jump. Everyone knew that, if they did that, they would lose that ingenuity, however, they could not reduce the distance. It gave the impression that this ship could even increase its speed and lose them at any time it wanted.

"Sir, we received a response from Omega. That ship is not his. - He was informed by Major Lagust. –

- Could it be from any of our Quadruple allies? - Yener wanted to know. –

-For the data we have, negative. Commander Kirel replied.

Something then went through Yener's mind, it was like a kind of warning. At the moment the young captain ordered to the surprise of his subordinates.

-Abandon the chase, crossing speed, let's go back to the base.

Despite the surprise no one questioned that, possibly their superior could be aware of information that they ignored. The orders were fulfilled and that mysterious ship disappeared in just a few moments as soon as the Dureor slowed down.

- Who do you think they can be, sir? Their technology far surpasses ours. - Ensign Delaier wanted to know. –

-I have no idea. - Admitted Yener who added. - I hope I can find out when we come back. I go to my office, put me with Commodore Cresat.

And that said, he withdrew from the bridge. The rest of the officers stayed there, with Lagust commenting to Commander Kirel.

"It's really strange. Captain Rant doesn't have the profile of someone who gives up so quickly.

-Your reasons will have. - He answered this one to conclude with that conversation. –

In turn, Menera whispered to Larus who was sitting next to her at the checkpoint.

-From what they say about him, it is strange yes.

-I know the captain well, if he has decided that we should retreat it is because he has felt something.

- Sure, your Kail disciplines, right? - The girl asked. –

His interlocutor did not say anything, although he nodded, his commander was close and had implied that this conversation had concluded. So, obeying the orders, they scheduled the return.

"I'll ask you later." - Larus thought. –

And the Dureor headed towards Omega without novelty. Meanwhile, Kira and Copito's ship continued to enter the Earth's solar system. The two were dedicated to observing the gaseous planets and their satellites without even imagining what awaited them.

**ESPAÑOL**

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**STORIES**