UNC005E

**STORIES**

**PREVIOUS**

**ESPAÑOL**

**Deliberations and trickery**

Once seated at the large conference table and taking advantage of the moments leading up to the start of the session, Cresat whispered to Yener that he was to his right.

- Congratulations, Lieutenant, you have done an excellent job, this will earn you a promotion. I trust that this will give you an additional incentive to continue in the same way as before.

- I don't know what to say, sir - the young officer was able to reply visibly surprised and satisfied by that news as magnificent as it was unexpected.  - Such a rapid ascent did not expect it. I just left the Academy.

Of course he hadn't expected that, he was quite relieved when his superior had given him his blessings instead of some reprimand for going to know what diplomatic protocol or form of negotiation misused or simply ignored. In any case, he believed that he would be immediately returned to his ship and return to Yumlaiance where he could count as he established the first interplanetary contact in many lend.

-Or centuries, as expressed by  our new friends of Omega. I think it's a period of time that refers to a hundred of its years.

I was even learning quite a bit from that new civilization. That would please his master Light Goshawk.

-He always says that every occasion is suitable to learn something new. And in this case that is obvious. - It was said with satisfaction. – I have been very lucky and I have made good use of my opportunity. - Thought pleased. -

And for his part little todos would admire him, his mother above all would be very proud, but this! If he was also promoted it would be wonderful.  Although that gave some vertigo.

-But for me, delighted. - He meditated after weighing all the above. -

His superior must have thought instead that he was not too sure, since he encouraged him.

- Say you're willing to do it. - Cresat smiled explaining. - I need an officer to coordinate the communication tasks and you seem the only one able to make yourself understand and translate the language of our hosts. I will therefore draft your appointment as major for tomorrow.

- Thank you very much, Commodus - Yener replied very pleased.

Of course, his instruction in the Monastery of the Warriors of Somer and his mastery of the discipline of psychic communication had rendered a great service to his world, a service that in passing he was going to capitalize on in a more than productive way for his career.

- Surely master Goshawk will be proud of me. Or so I hope. - He meditated almost happier about that than about his promotion. -

Cresat gave him a few more moments to savor that ascent and then indicated more seriously.

- Now it is very important that you concentrate, you will have to convey exactly my words.

- Yes, sir. - The boy immediately replied. -

Lora and Pierre, for their part, chatted with each other at the other end of the table, agreeing on the paths to which they wished to take the conversation. They were more exchanges of mutual assents and conformities than anything else. The only thing they commented on in some detail was something related to a strange event days ago.

- Do you think they could be those mysterious visitors? - The president asked her interlocutor. –

-I guess you mean that mysterious ship that left us with a span of noses. - Pierre replied to answer fairly confidently. – I don't think it's likely, although nothing can ever be ruled out. However, the way in which they have made contact with us has had nothing to do with that.

It was an awkward issue indeed. Days earlier a huge unidentified flying object had crossed the space of the Confederacy without them being able to do anything to prevent it. He even sent the cruiser Hummingbird, the fastest of Omega's flotilla. This ship went into hyperspace to tackle the great distance that separated it from that strange ingenuity and then return to normal space accelerating to its maximum speed. However, he was unable to reach that mysterious ship which also did not respond to calls. Well, in a way it did, but with a transmission as indecipherable as it is strange. As it was, two warning shots were fired. A pair of hyper-light missiles that that ingenuity deflected at his whim. They could have turned them against the Hummingbird and even destroyed it, but fortunately they didn't.

The only thing that comforts me is to think that whoever they were did not harbor hostile intentions. - Pierre sentenced. –

Yes, I think you're right. - Agreed Lora. - I don't think these people at Yumlaiance have as advanced a level of technology as that strange artifact. Rather, it is similar to ours. What they do seem to agree on is their peaceful intentions. Just as we have them. - Riveted more relieved. -

However, his contertulio returned a skeptical look at that last comment. And not everything at that table were expectant faces eager and eager to establish a fruitful relationship. Cassiopeia's attaché seemed nervous, and when everyone was finally ready and turned their attention to the president, he asked for the floor amid the general silence. Lora granted it not if before introducing the new members of the council and after the greetings the Consul of Cassiopeia stood up and said pompously.

- Members of the Council and distinguished visitors. Given the magnitude of this encounter with a new civilization, I would like to have the time to inform the leader of my world, General Tirelius. I firmly believe in the need for him, as the ultimate ruler of my planet, to speak in this forum and not me.

- Very well-conceded Lora. You are entitled to do so, but in this case the talks cannot be delayed. It would be best if you could contact him through the subspace channel.

- I will do it right away, if you are so kind and give me ten minutes. - He replied politely but firmly. –

- All right, if Commodus Cresat, Yumlaiance's emissary, has no problem. " The president said watching her guest. –

Yener translated that proposal, as well as equivalence in the measure of the time of his world.

- For me there is no problem. - The questioner testified in charge of the situation. -

Again, Yener translated that and responded on behalf of his superior. The Casiopean military attaché made a gesture of thanks to him and left the room to engage in a private conversation. He was a guy of very small stature, reddish hair, elongated face and eyes that distilled a look between malevolent and shrewd.

"I don't like that guy, sir. - Yener whispered to his superior. -

Neither do I. - He agreed to this one by even humorously claiming. - And I bet you haven't needed your Kai skills to think that.

"Of course not." - The young officer admitted. -

-Lose care, Rant. If that ambassador is like that, I can imagine what the man who appointed him will be like. What did they say it was called?

-Tirelius, sir. It's general.

Wow, so that government is a military junta. - I replenish his superior. -

I apologize, I did not have material time to document myself on all the governments of this confederation. - A hurried Yener replied. -

-Calm down, there will be an opportunity to catch up. - The commodor replied without giving it too much importance. –

His subordinate nodded, in order to inform the commodus in the thread of the conjecture.

Although from what little I have been able to find out to date, those of Cassiopeia are the greatest military power. They must have a correlation of forces very favorable to their interests since the president tries to avoid clashes with them at all costs. She is very concerned and fears that the Casiopeans  will gradually move away from the confederacy and that they will act at her whim. He is very concerned that he cannot exert control over them. Either that, or she is frightened of the possible actions they may take. - At least that's what I can feel in her.

That favors us to enter into any type of negotiations. For the Confederacy we could be the ideal counterweight to those individuals. And for Cassiopeia we would be potential allies that would allow them to break with the Confederacy. - Cresat whispered to him, adding cautiously. - For now we will keep an watch and watch how they behave.

That left Yener somewhat confused and perplexed. He looked at his superior and asked.

-Sir. Should we not support the Confederation? Without a doubt, they seem to me to be more trustworthy people.

His contertulio was limited to sketching a fatherly smile to answer.

-Boy, you must learn that, in politics and interplanetary diplomacy, we must not align ourselves with those who create better people, but with those who can yield the greatest benefits to our world. And that, even if sometimes we don't like it at all.

And while he didn't share that assertion, Yener nodded. He was very inexperienced and his superior was instead an accomplished diplomat and a man of great experience. That pleased him. I could learn a lot by his side. Besides, it was true even if he didn't like it at all, because of his personal sympathies, what really mattered there was the benefit to the interests of Yumlaiance and the Quadruple Alliance of Worlds he represented. I thought about that while the rest of the delegates chatted with each other or also took a break to consult with their respective governments. For his part, the consul entered an adjacent room, connected with his leader and the latter soon appeared on the screen. He was a burly guy with an unpleasant expression, with a pepper nose, short brown hair and repeinated with a stripe that divided his hair by the center. Within minutes his ambassador brought him up to date and discontent adorned his factions.

- We cannot allow that! - He spied on his acolyte. - If these powers enter the Confederacy the balance of forces will no longer be favorable to us. It must do its utmost to oppose it, but of course, not very outright, we do not want to create ourselves a potentially dangerous enemy. We still have a lot of preparations to make before we are ready for that.

And after pausing briefly, that subject seemed to think better and added.

Perhaps we could even beat them to our cause.

- Do you believe? - He inquired about his now perplexed subordinate. –

- Think about it, consul. - Tirelius said, explaining it with more reflective overtones. - If those guys have half the strength they want to pretend, their warlike capacity would be greater than the entire Omega Confederacy put together, except for us. And with an alliance with them, we would have all the tactical advantages to materialize our strategy. The Confederacy would be trapped in a tweezer. I therefore order you to investigate as much as you can to find out its true potential, to prepare a full report. He will deliver it to me upon my arrival. And, first and foremost, as long as we confirm its real power, do nothing that might offend these new potential allies. Be cordial with them, don't commit to anything, but buy time.

- Yes, my general, as you order. - The ambassador respectfully greeted, to recap. - So I'll try to slow down the conversations as long as possible. I will therefore tell you that I am speaking with your acquiescence until I can attend in person to greet the guests.

- I think it's perfect. I trust you, do what I have told you. - The general replied by cutting off the communication. -

Once his consultation was made, cassiopeia's military attaché returned to the room. After asking for the floor and being given once again, he addressed those present in a rather courteous tone.

- The ruler of our world is heading here. He considers this matter of transcendental importance and therefore prefers to present himself physically and not in hologram to be able to talk to you personally. It therefore reserves the right to express an opinion or vote on any kind of proposal. In the meantime, he sends them his best wishes and hopes that these talks will move towards a fruitful agreement with our new friends that will encompass us all.

Other representatives of the Confederacy looked astonished. The consul seemed to be a totally different person, in his ways usually distrustful and charged with superiority and even disdain, he had moved to the embodiment of concord and kindness. Lora was equally bewildered, and based on her experience with that character there was no fear of anything good, but drawing on her experience she was finally able to respond with her usual deference.

We certainly appreciate General Tirelius' gesture for what it is worth. But, as the Consul has told us, it will take time to arrive and we are obliged to start talks with our guests so that they can reach a successful conclusion. And you will understand that, if there is a vote that requires haste, we cannot delay it. Cassiopeia will have to assume the result whatever it is.

-Of course, of course, and regarding the leader of my world, do not worry, ladies and gentlemen, traveling to your cherished Omega is the least that the general can do to greet our new friends as they deserve. - The consul smiled, bowing his head slightly in deference to the yumlaincer. -

Yener followed those words very carefully, translating from time to time to the commodor. The boy also showed some bewilderment. His senses clearly said that not everything in that meeting was as idyllic as it seemed. It was clear that there were problems among the members of that confederation themselves. Although that was normal. They weren't spared that in the Quadruple Alliance either. There were always tensions with the natacliers and their secrecy, with the akapler  for their mania for doing things for free and with  ciloner  for their stubbornness.

Well, and they think we're too proud. Each planet has its own particular poster facing the others. - Admitted. -

Although these reflections did not prevent him from continuing to inform his superior of what was said there. For its part, Cresat was merely listening to him attentively, for the moment without saying or asking anything.

-Very good. - Declared a member of the constellation of Scorpion addressing the newcomers directly. - I would like to ask our guests if they would be willing to join our Confederation.

Now Cresat did retaliate after receiving the translation.

That is something that only my government is in a position to determine. We do not know the legislative framework or the requirements of your Confederation. In addition, we are already part of an alliance with three other planets. There are also other worlds with which we have signed agreements.

We fully understand that. - Lora replied, after being informed of the representative's words and after being translated. -

- I also understand the complicated position our guest is in. - Added the consul of Cassiopeia, stating. - The same thing happens to our great leader, General Tirelius. As I have already let you know, he wants to talk in person with the representation of our new ally. That is why I will not be able to sign any confederative agreements until he arrives. - He said he was staring at everyone present, especially the president and the representative of Yumlaiance to study their reactions, although these remained neutral to what he added with a tinge between affable and conciliatory. - I trust you will understand this and apologise.

- All right. We also understand your situation, Mr. Consul, Lora said, who seemed to expect something like this when she added without appearing at all concerned. - Then, and since we are a majority and there is a quorum, we will decide accordingly. - That said he refocused on the consul of Cassiopeia and added. - Ambassador, I would remind you that under our laws you are obliged to abide by any decision or alliance that is established when it comes to a vote that has a majority of representatives in the house.

- With all due respect to the presidency. - He refuted this one with a weak and uncomfortable smile. Our world and its immediate allies are free to decide our policy.

- And nobody denies them that right. - Pierre intervened resolutely. - They should only accept what concerns the confederative framework decided in a plenary vote. That is, to the rules of our coexistence and common areas of space. Nothing else.

- For our part, there will be no problem in chatting with delegations from different worlds. - Terció Yener on behalf of the commodor, as he had been translating that conversation. - We understand that position because our world is here, not only representing itself, but at least three other planets. And as my superior has told them, we will not be able to speak fully for them either.

The Casiopean military attaché now sketched a smile of satisfaction, that was precisely what he wanted, to delay that in order to have the opportunity to win over those strangers and also his allies. It seemed that those yumlaincer thought the same thing. They could be of invaluable help to the plans their leader had in mind. He replied by replying to these foreigners even cordially.

- I am glad to note the great diplomatic skill that you display and your intelligence. Surely when our top ruler arrives we will be able to have very fruitful talks.

-- So, now we could lay a minimum foundation for a good relationship," Lora proposed. - I do assume that you will approve it. - He added addressing the Consul andAsyopean c attaché with a barely perceptible ironic tinge. -

- Of course. - He was quick to answer this guy visibly discharged of tension. - Nothing would please my world more than to bond with our new friends. That is why you have my vote in favour.

Lora nodded and asked the rest.

We are of the same opinion as our distinguished colleague, the Consul. - The representative of Andromeda said. –

-Also, the constellation of Scorpion is in favor. - His spokesman declared. -

The others spoke out in turn and it was unanimously agreed that the confederation of Omega Planets and the Quadruple Alliance of Worlds, of which Yumlaiance was a part, would make a good relationship agreement. That included a free transit through the common spaces of both confederations, reserving the free space of each planet to the decision of the world in question. Nothing was yet said about a possible incorporation of the Yumlaincer and their allies into omega's own confederation. With that the assembly was dissolved and Commodor Cresat returned to the ship. Yener escorted him and on the way the two commented on what happened.

It's a really important step. - The commodor declared. - A principle of good neighbourliness agreement which at the moment does not commit us to anything.

That's right, sir. - Yener agreed and commented perhaps somewhat disenchanted. – Although I thought that the good thing about establishing diplomatic relations was to quickly reach alliance and cooperation agreements.

Once again Cresat smiled, Yener was aware that his superior considered him a bison boy in those fights. And so it really was. Although his contertulio responded in a rather considerate way.

-You are a good officer, and you will go far if you continue like this. I see that you are eager to serve our world. But remember this, first of all you have to be patient and observe, realize the movements of your interlocutors, the causes they have to act, the reasons that guide them. You will no doubt have noticed the attitude of that consul of Cassiopeia, have you not?

Yes, sir. - The young man admitted. –

Cresat nodded in turn to add.

-Well, it is the same as those of its theoretical partners. Don't let appearances fool you. Although in your eyes the president is a more pleasant and considerate woman, she moves for the same purposes as those of that consul, namely... take advantage in the negotiations. The same applies to the representatives of the rest of the planets of this confederation. They all expect another to make the first move to act accordingly.  And that favors us, remember that we must consult our own allies. The worst thing would have been if our new "friends" had formed a common front.

Of course. - Terció Yener who seemed to understand this by stating. - Since we ourselves do not have that common front. Yumlaiance would have been caught between this confederation and the pressures of the other worlds of our alliance. Nor are we interested in asking for membership. We have enough with the Quadruple. - Riveted. –

Thus was known colloquially the organization of the four planets to which Yumlaiance belonged. It was an old system of support and mutual aid that nevertheless left full freedom to each member as long as what he did was not against or to the detriment of any other planet of the association.

That's right, we cannot sign a definitive treaty with any other power, let alone apply for membership in another supra-planetary organization until our allies are informed and we are all sure that it does not directly conflict of interest with our current situation.

Yes sir. Omega's have a diplomatic term for the latter, as I understand it, Status Quo, comes to them from an ancient language of their mother world. - And before the astonished gaze of the commodus, he sketched a whipped smile and clarified it. - I'm trying to document as much as I can about their uses, customs and way of thinking.

Now his superior nodded approvingly to sentence.

-You're already learning, boy. It is essential to know how the other party thinks to try to anticipate. And that's worth a lot more to our Quadruple "friends." That is why we need some time to reach an agreement between ourselves, before we can do so with them. And it is certainly not going to be an easy task, either because of the diplomatic difficulties or because of the limited range of danes  available to us for it.

That said, the commodus said goodbye to him and Yener went for a drink in the canteen of his ship and was there with his friend Larus. Once free of protocol and both on leave, he congratulated him when the young man told him everything that happened, at least from his particular point.

- What a potra you've had! The goddess Ishir and her mother Maray favor you. Promoted to senior! Congratulations, Yener! You have fallen in grace to the commodor.

- I've been lucky, yes. - Yener admitted thathe was on an outbur of optimism. - But this is only thebeginning.

- Do you still want more? - He mocked Larus by adding humorously. - Take advantage, man! Maybe if you ask him now he will give you command of a cruiser carrier ships.

- Don't hesitate. - His friend smiled with a good mood. - Walk, let's have a drink. That then I want to go back to Omega.

- Do you have more obligations to attend to? - Larus was interested. -

- Yes, with a certain lady of the confederation. - He told him this one. - It's time to start inter-spatial relationships with native ones.

- As you are! Tell me one thing. Who's going to explain that to all your other girlfriends? - His partner scoffed. -

- I don't have to explain anything to anyone - Yener replied carelessly. - And don't laugh at me, you know I don't have girlfriends to use. They're just friends. I always respect women, although of course, not as much as you do. - It reminded him of his contertulio. -

And it was allusioning that I had never seen him with any girl since I knew him. Well maybe yes with some, but in plan of rigorous friendship, or even playing games to the holo simulator, although on the other hand Larus did not like to show off that type of relationship if he had them. Possibly he kept them in his intimate plot and that was entirely respectable. Although his friend immediately replied with a smile free of any suspicion for that comment.

- Yes, anyone competes with you on that. You must go for the fifth or sixth "friend" who chases you in the fleet, after a previous invitation on your part – and to finish the job Larus added with gloating - To see, if I remember correctly, some young ensigns and even a lieutenant ... Vilia,Tanya,  Mariad  and  Noeda. And you told them all how much you loved them or something.

- Come now! - replied Yener visibly eager to shelve the issue while launching a counterattack that would surely settle the talk. - I at least make some case, you are cold as ice. That's being cruel. You look like a Nataclier!

-Don't go over it either. - He asked Larus, yes, with a jovial smile. -

- I confess that the matter escapes me. Especially in a famous guy and as popular with women as you. There are many who would be looking forward to you paying them a little bit of attention.

- Question of opinions. - His friend smiled, shrugging his shoulders and downplaying that statement. - What happens is that I am sociable and I do not usually focus solely on one person.

"Hey Larus, what was that song like? One of the ones you sang...- Yener wanted to know, which she added trying to remember. - There is more love when...

-There is more love than when a boy meets a girl. - Completed his companion. –

- Do you see it? - He smiled at his contertulio, declaring. – That is why we have to vary, indeed social life.

- Maybe that's what I look like you at! – Rio, adding in a good mood. - And speaking of socializing. Let's have a drink.  Go, you invite! that's what you're the ascended for.

- How in the name of the god Kail and his sacred father Alex do you dare to give orders to your new superior officer? - Yener asked, flaunting an undoubted tone of chanza. –

Larus squared up waving, though it was clear that he was following the current to his friend, especially when replying amusedly.

Excuse me, sir. I request permission to be invited by you.

- Permission granted, lieutenant! - Yener River. - Go, come on!

His partner agreed to it gladly to forget for the moment the matter of the girls. Yener on the other hand thought about just that and his friend. That Larus was a case in point! He had succeeded as a singer in his world and decided to leave fame and success to enlist. Yener assumed that he moved out of patriotic interest. That's why I also felt, of course, that he was a good guy. That fame had never come to mind. He could perceive it with his basic Kail instincts. What's more, it seemed that they felt uncomfortable when they mentioned that to him.

-He is a very good person, always willing to help those who need it and quite generous. Besides modest. I don't need to dig into his mind with my kail discipline of telepathy, to see that, and it would be very rude. - The young warrior monk was said. -

So, he forgot about his friend and the girls and the two had some drinks at the ship's bar. After talking something about the mega League and returning to "chop" defending their respective teams, Yener, said goodbye to his partner and went to change.  Dressed in a gala uniform, as he had done at the meeting, but already wearing the badges of a senior lieutenant, he went down to the planet again.

"I hope I'm lucky, and that Ishir will lend me a hand. - He smiled. –

And not in vain was entrusted to the goddess of love that they venerated in their world. Although I wasn't sure if his influence would reach that far. Well, you'd have to try...

-Her parents Alex and Maray and her brother, our god Kail, will surely also watch over us, along with her. - I wanted to believe. -

          Meanwhile in the president's office, Pierre, Graham and Lora discussed the terms of the alliance.

- I don't like the role that Cassiopeia wants to play in all this," pierre warned. – It is clear that they want to attract the yumlaincers  to their side.

- Well, we too, the worst thing is that they seem to understand each other quite well. Both seem to be of a rather warmongering disposition, and those of Yumlaiance allow themselves to be loved, although at least they give the impression of being more cautious. - He valued Graham. –

That is elementary diplomacy. - Terció Lora. – They play their cards as we do with ours.

His contertulios nodded, that was so. Nor could they expect anything else. Then it was Pierre who took the floor.

Anyway, I was surprised to see the consul of Cassiopeia so kind. That's almost what worries me the most. The yumlaincers have really said little and heard a lot.

- Well, that, far from relieving us should worry us even more. Since, in case they were hostile, that makes them more dangerous than Tirelius. - Insightfully indicated Lora. - At least he is seen coming, and we already know how to treat him after so long. But with these new "friends" ... we don't have any clues yet.

- Let's not be so alarmist - pierre said. And let us try to control the situation as much as possible. As you said before, this is like a game of cards and if we play ours well we would be the ones who could attract those of Yumlaiance.

- That is, if they really want to make an alliance with us and coexist in harmony. - Lora sighed. -

Nor should we get the worst of it. - Graham intervened trying to dedramatize. - Those guys have no idea what Cassiopeia's are like, I guess they'll be wary, and more so they would if they knew them as much as we did.

That is precisely the problem, that they allow themselves to be fooled by the tactics of the consul. - Pierre declared. -

He finished saying that phrase when the living room screen lit up. Pierre and Lora smiled as they recognized their daughter's face.

- Dad, Mom," hello, Commander Stevens. - Cheerfully greeted Gina - How did the conference go?

- It hasn't been bad - his mother replied. -

"Surely we have laid the foundations for a good coexistence," said his father, adding cautiously. - Although it's still too early to tell. Hey, is Kira out there? We would have to talk to her. - He asked with interest since an idea had crossed his mind. -

- No, I think he went out with Peter for a drink. Both have finished service. - He wanted to remember the girl -.

- What a pity, as soon as you find them tell Kira that I would like to see her. - Colonel Larans asked him. -

-Very good. May I ask you why? Or is it official? - Gina was interested with a gesture of strangeness. -

And for his information and that of the rest of the listeners, Pierre revealed.

- No, it's not official. I would like you to use your telepathic skills to tell us how things stand with our new allies. Perhaps that would make sure of their intentions and buy time. - Colonel Larans finished explaining with the approving gaze of Lora and especially Graham. -

- He already tried it with that guy, the lieutenant who came with us, but she was unable to access all his thoughts. - The girl clarified to them that looking at her watch she added with some urgency. - Well, I'll leave you now if you don't want anything else.

- Don't you date my child today? - Graham smiled. -

- That's what we've been left with, but I don't know if you can, I had to do an inspection round on our light ship. The day after tomorrow we have to go out on a reconnaissance mission. - Gina commented with some disenchantment. -

- Then we let you go and ask! –Terció Lora with a wink of complicity that made his daughter smile shamefully before everyone's laughter. -

-Yes, better go and do it. Or my son is able to forget. It's getting to check machinery and the saint goes to heaven! - Graham River. -

Gina shook hands and cut off communication. His parents and the eldest were still smiling.

- Poor guy! Don't be so him. - Lora smiled. -

-It's that my son is stunned. - Graham declared shaking his head. - Let's see if you decide to go seriously once and for all with your girl. I was already saying this to Pierre the other day.

He nodded in solidarity and it was Lora who commented.

-I don't know, women usually have patience, but not indefinitely. And they've been playing around whether or not they've been dating or not as friends or as a couple for a while now.

His interlocutors nodded. Of course, that's what Gina thought. Gordon was a great guy, but aside from not being quite sure what he really felt, he didn't decide to take the plunge either. That of asking him for a serious relationship.

"Maybe it will happen to him like me. I think you are interested, but I could be wrong. - Meditated. –

             I thought about it, even though I didn't know their conversation had been heard. Meanwhile, after having a drink with Larus and saying goodbye to him, Yener had already arrived on the planet and disembarked in the newly installed delegation of his world. From there he went to the canteen of the congress headquarters. Chance wanted it to come just as the girl was connecting with her parents. Making use of a technique learned in the monastery of monks-warriors in which he studied, he camouflaged himself so as not to be discovered and listened to the last part of the conversation. He then departed for the hangar area. As he had an accreditation card that he was given upon arrival his step was not interrupted. He approached a ship identical to the one that first brought him to the planet. There he discovered that certain Gordon doing the appropriate checks.

- We're going to laugh. - He thought the yumlaincer that, using telekinesis blocked some ventilation ducts of that small patrol ship. -

Gordon's disruptor began to sound alarm bells, its owner guided by him to the ventilation area. What a can, some system was in bad shape. That is what the on-board computer told them.

-Failure in the life support system. Situation of the ship, not suitable for takeoff.  - The metal voice of the computer rang. –

- What is its nature? - He asked. –

-Possible obstruction of the system. Although there are missing elements to answer the question. - He declared that device. –

- Well, that's fine! - The boy snorted. -

Well, I would communicate by receiver with Gina and tell her that it would take time to arrive. But this one didn't obey either. Yener smiled amused, camouflaged in a corner.

- Damn it! But what is going on here today? Anyway! I have no choice but to sort it out. I will try to fix it as soon as possible. - The resigned Gordon said as his saboteur came out of there trying to hold out the laughter. –

-I know I shouldn't use my disciplines for this... but it's great! - It was said with glee. –

Nor was it so much, some little jokes could be spent. I passed even in the monastery.

-And by the way, I will try to make it serve me for something even more interesting. - It was said, moving away from there, to go to meet the person in whom he was interested. -

And the object of Yener's interest was waiting in the room next to the hallway from which she had spoken to her parents. I was looking forward to Gordon coming. Although this one was delayed quite a bit. At last he heard footsteps and before even seeing the owner of these he ventured to say with an annoyed tone for being prey to impatience.

- It was about time! I thought you didn't get there.

- Sorry? - I reapply Yener turning the corner with a gesture of strangeness drawn on his countenance. - Is it me?

- Oh, how sorry! - He was quick to say Gina visibly whipped and trying to justify herself immediately with visible shame. - Please excuse me.  I thought it was someone else.

- There is nothing to apologize for. I'm the one who regrets letting you down in that. - The boy replied condescendingly, adding boldly. - But if that person's wait is prolonged maybe you would accept an invitation to me so that you don't have to stay in this hallway alone.

- I'm gone. - Gina objected that she felt somewhat uncomfortable on one side, although on the other she would have no problem accepting in other circumstances. - I don't think it takes much longer to come.

There was a somewhat awkward moment of silence, although the boy immediately maneuvered with the advantage of knowing what had happened to the failed appointment of that beautiful girl.

- Maybe I seem very impulsive to propose something like this. I don't know what the custom is among yours, but I just have to stay here and I don't know anyone. I'd like to chat a little bit about your world and mine. Perhaps we would break new ground and get to know each other better.  - Insisted he making use of his great gifts of conviction nuanced with a broad smile. - I mean our two civilizations. Of course, only until your appointment arrives.

Gina listened to these words with interest, recalling the conversation she had had with her parents. Maybe if I struck up conversation with him I could figure out things that Kira was unable to detect. Besides, an hour had passed and Gordon was still missing. With how clueless he was he could sometimes have even forgotten. Of course, if there was any reason he could have communicated it to him, but he hadn't even bothered to call. She was pretty upset and surely her partner shouldn't care too much for not having at least tried to justify her delay.

- I know a very cozy place near the congress venue. - I replenish the girl at last. - I'd love to show you. - He claimed to dominate as much as he could his gosshawking. -

-It will be a pleasure for me. - Agreed his interlocutor smiling with evident contentment. -

Gina watched him with interest. The truth is that now that he was better fixed that boy was very handsome and the uniform he wore, burgundy with a wide strip shaped like a delta on his chest, wearing what should be his decorations and two metal bars, fit him very well.

Well, come on. - He could say something whipped. -

Yener nodded, he could capture those thoughts in the girl, but by elementary education he didn't let her know. I wish she would ask him and they would have a topic to start a conversation. Of course he would like any pretext to be able to "cross the Lands of Kalte"or what would be the same in omega terms, "break the ice more". For her part, Gina was eager to know more about this mysterious officer and his world and began walking guiding him. Her companion followed her and they both went to the restaurant to which she alluded, sitting at a table away from the hustle and bustle, it was the patrol boat that began the conversation forcing herself to pass over her shyness.

- It must be very exciting to make contact with other civilizations, right?

- Tell me you!,- Yener laughing back the question - What do you think?

That made Gina blush, what nonsense she had asked! but I didn't know what I could have said, his cheeks were colored when he replenished.

- True, I'm a fool. I asked it as if it had not been reciprocal. - Admitted feeling ridiculous. -

- On the former I disagree, you're no fool. In the latter, it's certainly exciting - Yener acknowledged. - And even more so if you discover inhabitants of other worlds as extraordinary as you. - Claimed intentionally letting a few seconds pass to add - and your friends clear.

Once again Gina blushed, this time very visibly, Yener knew that her compliments were leading her down the right path. Although she immediately asked him to deflect the matter by looking towards his breastplate.

- Do all those badges indicate your rank?

- Yes. Well not all, some are decorations. - He explained with hard modesty because despite feeling flattered it had to be recognized that it was not really so much. That girl did not know the hierarchy, nor the honors of Yumlaiance and it would not be entirely honest to try to give herself more pomp than existing. - Nothing important, rather emblems of my time at the military academy of my world and these bars. - She pointed out with all intent. "They are the badges of my new degree. Lieutenant mayor.

- Wow, have you been promoted?, congratulations! – She was able to respond with a sincere tinge of voice that Yener perceived on her part very satisfied. Although Gina added feeling obligated in mutual correspondence. - I'm still an ensign. Well, I'm about to be promoted to lieutenant. Although now I don't see uniform as I'm on leave. - He finished by promising again with respectful treatment, perhaps influenced by that rank. - When I wear it I will show you the badges.

- Please tweet me without ceremony - He cordially asked him. -

Although of course I would prefer to see it in a different way and not exactly in uniform but rather devoid of any attire. In short, better to moderate those thoughts, they were not worthy of a warrior monk, nor of an officer, but at the end of the day they were human. However, it wasn't a matter of going so fast, so he added.

- I would like to think that, more than allies, we can become good friends.

Completely oblivious (fortunately for both Gina was not like Kira) to these thoughts she smiled nodding, posing her head on her intertwined hands that were held on the table resting on her elbows. He was not very well educated, but it allowed him a more scrutinizing and informal pose that gave him more confidence. And that came in handy when it came to throwing another question.

- How is your society?

"Not unlike yours, in essence we are very similar," he replied. - We have aspirations, dreams, desires and affections. And also problems, disagreements and things to improve. I imagine just like you. What guides us a lot in general is the sense of honor, respect for the past and dignity.

"The same thing happens to us, it's true," smiled Gina. - You too will have a hard preparation to go into space. Truth?

- Yes, it's true. - He admitted- as I told you I spent five years in the space academy and another five years previously in a monastery in my world.

- Were you a monk like the priests of yesteryear? - Gina was surprised looking at him perplexed since that guy didn't seem to fit in with that occupation. -

- No, it's not that - smiled Yener who had already found out something about omega religions and allied worlds that sometimes called their managers that way. - It is a monastery of warrior monks, they master many techniques of fighting and concentration. These badges. - And he pointed towards his breastplate showing an emblem with a small sun inscribed on it and another strange symbol unrecognizable to the girl. At least until he offered a clarification. - It is the symbol of my monastery of kail. Well, or Kai as he is known for those lands in his native language. This is the name of the God who, according to legend, founded him. The sun is the standard of the kingdom where it is located, Somer, called Sommerlund in the ancient language of that place, and this. - He qualified in allusion to that rare nearby design. - It's the number of disciplines I master. Nine.

- There are many! - The girl said in surprise.

- Actually I'm still at the basic level. - He recognized him downplaying it -.

- Among the ones you master is telepathy perhaps? - Gina guessed that she thought she was approaching something interesting. -

- It's not exactly that. - Yener clarified that he clarified. - They teach you to develop the potential of the mind and body, among other things.

- Could you know what I think now? - He asked her with a half smile. -

-If I knew it I wouldn't have any charm and it's not always easy. - Yener replied by returning a mellow smile, although he already sensed, and for that he did not need any particular technique, that she was trying to sound something at him. He wanted to turn the situation around and asked in turn. - That brunette friend of yours does seem to be able to read minds.

- Kira is telepática. - Admitted Gina. - She has special gifts, she also has feelings that are usually very successful.

- Wow, how interesting - whispered Yener who added now in a higher tone. - Hopefully I will inspire good feelings.

- I think so for now! - river the young woman. -

- And to you, I inspired them? - Yener asked her staring into the eyes which decentered the girl a little who did not know how to answer until after a few seconds, more when the young man riveted - I hope so!

Now the poor girl was red. Perhaps that talk was getting out of hand. Although education should give an answer. The green eyes of that young man certainly stuck in his own as if they were really capable of knowing what he was thinking. At last, he might be able to replicate.

- Well, I think you're sincere and your superiors too. Hopefully we can all unite in one confederation. - She declared dazed and with her cheeks reddish. – It would be to extend peace and friendship to remote places in space...

- That I hope too, to unite and be able to get to know eachother better...- He smiled, although possibly having in mind another meaning something more prosaic and individual, referring to that charming hostess, so that to disguise his growing interest he nuanced. - It is very important that the different peoples and cultures know how to relate in peace.

The girl nodded slowly, visibly whipped. The two were staring at each other when Peter and Kira arrived. This would not have been a problem what really was if Gordon also appeared with them. The boy had been explaining what happened to them.

I don't understand that. How is it possible that the dragonfly's transmitter and ventilation system failed at the same time?...

Kira watched him with impenetrable gesture, but he had one of those forebodings so much of his own. The kind of thing that those incidents hadn't happened by chance. And she knew she wasn't wrong to walk into that restaurant and see Gina with that yumlaincer. Both she and Peter were surprised, but Gordon was perplexed and visibly disgusted to realize who his date was with. Fortunately for all of us he did not sense that this yumlaincer was the cause of that inexplicable breakdown that took him so long to fix. And his bad mood was on the rise as he saw how the one he wanted his girlfriend to be seemed to enjoy in the company of that presumptuous officer. That guy gave the impression of being the typical girl hunter. Those of those who have a love on every planetary scale and of course Gordon wasn't going to allow him to get in between him and Gina. So, guided by his impulse, he turned to them furiously and squeezing the pace before his friends could even try to dissuade him. Kira had no difficulty in probing her mind and visibly restlessly telepathically told Peter that they should follow him quickly. He observed it without understanding it.

- "Then I explain it to you"- She mentally pointed out to him. -

And I was really worried. If Gordon lost his temper and it was quite possible that he would, it could lead to a serious diplomatic incident...

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