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In Omega, after that victory, because that was how it was described by everyone, things had rushed. In plenary meeting of the Assembly it was voted unanimously to declare Tirelius and the consul Naboth persona non gratas, in addition to breaking all relations with Cassiopeia. Anyone from that planet, or legation who might remain in confederation territory, was ordered to leave within a week. The delegates of the Quadruple Alliance should also rethink their relations with that power. Some, including Yener, were betting on breaking relations with a world capable of such an attempt at genocide. That's what he told Nerel before starting an emergency meeting.

We can't trust those people. They have shown how dangerous they are. - He claimed the yumlaincer. –

"First we should know if they were really the ones who launched that rocket. – Nerel replied. –

"Do you think it is not a confession made by Tirelius when he sent that ultimatum to the president of Omega?" exclaimed a perplexed  Yener.   –

His interlocutor kept a few moments of silence, which led the yumlaincer to think that he knew more than what he was telling him and so he told him.

-See. What does nastralsy know? - Yener inquired. -

- Nothing has been confirmed yet. But Tirelius might not be acting alone.

- What do you mean by that? - Yener wanted to know. –

-That he could also have allies. It is too early to say for sure. However, we are working on it. - Asety stated adding with a prudent tone. – So perhaps you would do well to reconsider your position. Or is it the official position of Yumlaiance?

- Nope. Wanting to kick that ridiculous dictator in the ass is up to me. - He had to admit the question. –

"Well, I think I understand your point of view, but it would be premature to break relations with Cassiopeia until we are sure if they have support or not. Or they have been able to do such a thing. And it is not in our interest to turn against them. Or they have another world that we do not know supporting them, so it would not be convenient for us to be bad with them. - Dispassionately shelled the nataclier. -

Once again Yener had to admit that his personal desires clashed with the general interest. And it almost felt even worse for him to admit that this guy was right. Anyway and unlesshe didn't know yet, that was soon going to stop being a problem for him. In fact, when Commodore Cresat arrived in the meeting room and greeted Asety, he instructed his young subordinate to follow him. When they were separated from the other delegates who were arriving, he told him.

-You have a message from Dumlans. You have to go see it right away.

"But the meeting is going to begin, sir. - He objected. –

"That doesn'tmatter, boy. That message takes precedence. It comes from the high command. -He was revealed by his superior. -

Yener waved and left so she could see that message in private. He arrived at his office in the Yumlaiancer embassy and there he connected the holographic projection in which none other than the commander-in-chief of the planetary army of his world appeared.

-Captain Rant, I notify you that from the moment of receiving this message you have passed into the ranks of the planetary army, thus leaving the space. For all purposes his rank of captain passes to his  equivalent of colonel. Therefore, he must return to Yumlaiance where he will be awarded a new destination. You have twenty days to present yourself in Dumlans and  receive your new instructions. If there is an officer you trust in your current destination who wishes to bring with you, you can ask for your transfer. I am pleased to have you under my orders, I wish you a good trip back.

That took him by surprise. After a few moments to assimilate it, he sighed.

"Well, I'm coming home. - Musitó. –

It is what military life had, when omega and his new companions and friends were already being done, he had to leave everything and return. Nor did they promote him as usual in a transfer, but  they limited themselves to homologating the degree. And as for that concession...

"I'll have to talk to Larus. He may not want to part ways with Nerel. And I couldn't hurt to take Delaier either. - It was said. –

Total, he was going to separate from Gina and also from Leirana. The truth is that I was somewhat confused. He had begun to forget Omega's and have a growing attraction to that Akapler girl. But Gina's reaction when that rocket was deflected stoked the spark for her.

-In any case, it does not matter one or the other. The two will stay here. - He thought. –

That being the case,  hewould have to say goodbye to both as soon as he hadthe chance.

"Well, the first thing is to see Larus. - It was said. –

Many light-years from there, the Dragonfly was already arriving on Earth. From a distance I could appreciate the beauty of this along with its satellite, the moon they were surpassing at that very moment.

- How beautiful is the Earth! - Commented an admired Kira. –

It doesn't look like any other planet. - Peter agreed describing in wonder. – It would seem that it is a large blue marbled ball.

-The truth is that Omega has been very kind to grant us a vacation on Earth. - Gordon intervened. -

-Kira was very much needed. - Peter said looking at his friend and how she kept her eyes closed for much of the time. –

And it is that once the tension had passed everyone had fallen into her biorhythms, especially she who was already exhausted and injured after her rescue from the asteroid belt. Although once again, Gordon took the floor with a jovial tone.

- And to you too, you are made an old man, here the only truly strong one is me!

Kira finally opened her eyes, watching with regret what was left of Copito, the parts they were able to recover from the android were tied to one of the back seats.

-We approached the space base. - Peter said. – Too bad we don't land directly.

-That's going to waste a lot of time. - Gordon lamented. –

-It is that this venerable Earth has very particular laws. Kira said.   Spaceships cannot land on its ground.

As they got closer they observed a kind of silver line that surrounded the planet. Gordon commented puzzled.

I didn't know that the Earth had rings like Saturn or Uranus...

- Tarugo! - Peter laughed, explaining. –  It is a solar energy belt.

At that moment a call resooned on the ship.

-Dragonfly, welcome to the earthly space. - He greeted them. – Please go to the Doppler port base, where you are expected within six minutes. Please follow the flight instructions.

-It is called like ours in Omega. - Gordon recalled. –

-Rather it is the other way around. - Kira pointed out, reminding him. -  The full name of ours is New Doppler Port.

And between so, his interlocutors insisted.

-We repeat, we ask you to go to the space base.

They soon spotted a large cylinder surrounded by solar panels and topped with a kind of ring on its back, which rotated on itself.

"There it is!" commented  Peter.

It was much larger than it looked. So much so that the Dragonfly was able to access through one of the minor gates and perch. Soon a transshipment arm was deployed that connected to the patrol car so that the boys could leave.

-Optimal pressure, they can disembark. - They were notified. –

They did it calmly, especially Kira, who was walking with some difficulties. The first thing was to go to the medical examination post and the sterilization and identification area.   The young woman was immediately sent with an android robot to perform a reconnaissance. While Peter and Gordon chatted with the doctor in charge who informed them of the condition of their partner.

-Yes, friends, I think there is no cause for alarm, he will recover very soon.  It will be enough a little rest and that you continue our treatment.

Soon Kiraherselfprayed behind a door, accompanied by the medical robot that had checked her.

"Here, they are. - Commented the manager, asking that robot. - Tell us, doctor.

- I can only confirm your diagnosis, there are no fractures or serious injuries, just some bruises, a little rest and like new. - He affirmed. -

- It is also in your interest to rest, young man. - That woman declared addressing Peter. – Your lifehas beenquite hectic lately, right?–  Inquired,  although without waiting for confirmation, went on to address Gordon who looked  unbeatable. - As for you you seem to be made of an indestructible, invulnerable matter.

- Bah! - exclaimed a funny Gordon, downplaying it. -  It's not so much, I take care of myself.

Everyone laughed, even that nice  woman who happened  to  tell them.

"Well, I will celebrate that the  stay on the old Earth is very pleasant for our friendly visitors.

And parallel to that, in Omega Yener he had already taken care of starting to prepare his transfer. True to his idea, he first called Larus. He was quick to tell him what happened and what he had in mind.

- What do you say? I will try to pull some strings to get you promoted again with this transfer. If you accept.

"I don't know, Yener. I'm fine here. - Declared his friend. –

- If you say it for Nerel, talk to him. You're sure to understand. It is also due to their military obligations, the same as we do.-  Yener replied. –

"Well, it's not just because of him. Here I have made a good group of friends. In addition to colleagues. - His interlocutor affirmed. -

Yener smiled, replying amusedly.

"Let's see, let me guess. Ensigns Delaier and Renar...

"They are two very valuable girls, each in their own style." said Larus.

-In such a case, I will make the same proposal that you, in fact, was going to make it to Menera. - Yener commented. -

- Wow, you already call her by her first name and all. - His contertulio smiled. –

-Well, yes, I will have to go find her to ask her.

-I guess you will be with your partner, today is your day off. – Larus recalled. –

-Better than better, so I will propose it to both. But I would like us to give this more bombast. Could you take care of calling them yourself? And let them come to my office. I'll be late. Yener told him. –

Larus moved his head, but smiled, his friend always with that taste for representations. Especially when there were beautiful girls in between. Anyway, it would be fun to see the expressions of those two when notified.

-I immediately try to find them. I imagine where they will have gone. - Answered. -

For their part, the Larans family had a lot to celebrate as well. Lora and Pierre were with Gina in their private home, reviewing all the events.

-They have been brave, heroes! – Gina declared really proud of her brother, her boyfriend and her friend. –

- That's the way it is. The Earth owes them their salvation. That's not said about just anyone. - The equally proud Pierre agreed. –

-And now they will have vacations on the mother planet. What envy! Gina sighed, affirming. - I would like to travel a little too.

-Well daughter, soon as members of Omega's diplomacy, you will have some change of destiny.

- Yumlaiance perhaps? - Gina asked with a not-concealed predilection. -

-It could be, we hardly have anyone who speaks your language. - Lora agreed. -

Although at the moment there had been no opportunity to make changes or appoint representatives for that world or any other of the Quadruple Alliance. And perhaps it was now more necessary than ever to do so, given the situation with Cassiopeia. That's what Lora was thinking about when she got a call.

- Tell me? – Inquired about the transmitter. -

Madam President, Commodore Cresat, Ambassador of Yumlaiance, would like to talk to you for a few minutes. –

-Of course, pass the communication to my office. - She indicated. –

Before the eyes of her husband and daughter, Lora simply shrunred her shoulders and went to the room of her house that she used as an office when she had to take care of some matters there. He connected the holo video and saw the figure of the commodore appear.

"Good afternoon, what can I do for you, commodore?" - He greeted him. -

"Good afternoon, Madam President. You see, I wanted to inform you of some changes in our diplomatic leadership. I have received orders to prepare for the arrival of a new ambassador and to replace part of our team. Among the most notable marches is that of Captain Rant. It returns destined for our planet. I would also like to ask you whether you would be kind appointed as an ambassador or a representative for our world.

Lora opened her mouth without being able to help it. That was a coincidence!  If he had been talking to Gina before, the opportunity presented itself. Quick reflexes, as always in her career, she replied.

Yes, we have some candidates. For now, an ambassador would be premature, we should vote on him in the House, and when will those changes you have told me about be made?

-At most in five of his days. - Cresat replied adding. – I have no doubt that my colleagues from the other planets of our alliance will carry out similar modifications.

In such a case, I will convene a meeting with my allies tomorrow for us to vote. It would be very interesting to send an ambassador, or at least a consul accompanied by several legations with additions to each of their worlds. – The president declared. –

-I agree with you, in my opinion we must strengthen ties of friendship and cooperation as soon as possible. - Cresat sentenced. –

As they agreed, the outgoing ambassador said goodbye wishing Lora good luck. She was quick to comment on that to her husband and daughter. Gina was certainly delighted.

-It would be wonderful to be able to enter that selection. - He declared. –

You know we have to stick to the rules. Although for all the points you have in the oppositions and your mastery of the yumlaincer I think you will not have difficulties to obtain a place as an aggregate. - Commented his mother. –

- I think the same. But it will be a pity to have to separate. -  Intervened Pierre, who touched on another thorny issue when recalling.  - And what about  Gordon?

Gina nodded, sighed long and yes, she replenished with a more determined tone than was usual in her.

He has a career in space police and I have a career in diplomacy. Mom and you also had to be separated for some time, when she was traveling for her transfers. That's why I think this is a very important test to see the future of our relationship.

"Well said, daughter. - Approved Lora. -

"I guess you will know how to overcome it, as we did. - Pierre said. -

-In such a case, and if you are decided, perhaps it would be a good idea to communicate it to Captain Rant. - Lora opined, alleging. - If you can travel with it will be better, you can go wrapped by someone you know.

Gina nodded, she thought it was an excellent idea. On the other hand, after a few hours Larus managed to locate Menera and Jilia who were having dinner together at the restaurant in Nuevo Port Doppler.

-Here you eat very well, that of course. - Said the brunette ensign. -

-It is not cheap either, but from time to time we can afford it. - Smiled Menera. -

"Since I have a girlfriend who is a lieutenant, I can afford to be invited with some frequency.

- Hey! Walk that you don't have your face. - I laughed at the alluded to. -

         Jilia placed her hands as if she wanted to try to stop an avalanche and said amusedly.

-When I ascend I will already pay.

         After laughing a little they continued chatting relaxed, planning the night for after that dinner. Menera commented in a mellow voice.

-Well then you better behave very well, so that my investment is worth it.

          His partner nodded with a mischievous smile as they both held hands on the table. That's when Larus arrived.

"Good evening, I hope I don't bother you. - He waved. -

         They let go of their hands immediately, although it was more for attending to their superior than for shyness, and they just watched him curiously. Of course, Major Daet did not usually interrupt anyone, least of all a couple of two women, also taking into account their sexual preferences. That is why they were even more perplexed and did not know what to replicate when he told them.

-Captain Rant wants to seeors as soon as possible

- How? - He was finally able to replicate Jilia. -

- Do you know what it is? - Menera inquired. -

         Larus smiled responding with a somewhat enigmatic tone.

-It is something important, you have to askyour  questions. I can't countors more. The captain will be in his office.  Go when you can.

         And having said that, he said goodnight and left. The girls looked at each other puzzled. It was Menera who, almost with an admonitory tinge, asked his girlfriend.

- Haven't you done anything that I don't know, right?

- Do... I? Why do you imagine I've had to do something? - He answered this one with visible irritation. –

However, Jilia was known for not being too restrained., Sometimes some provocation or mockery or incident with someone had led to at least one quarrel. Already in his cadet days he had problems that almost caused his expulsion from the academy. Although in this case Menera thought that perhaps he had rushed to draw conclusions.

"Excuse me, I shouldn't have asked it like that. I have no idea what he will want to see us for. - The blonde girl sighed.  -

-Well, I think we should find out. - Jilia opined. -

- Half dinner? - Inquired the incredulous Menera. -

"That's a lot to say, let's have dinner and then go. After all, Major Daet has not said that it was urgent.

          Their contertulia agreed on that, for once they had a day off and time to devote themselves they had to interrupt them. And the worst thing is that they did not know the reason. Each went through the mental list to what they had done in the last few days discarding negligence or mistakes that deserved any kind of reprimand. They had dinner without too much haste and left the restaurant to go to their superior's office. Following the protocol, Menera was in charge of calling as she was the highest ranking officer.

- Do you give your permission, my captain? - Wanted to know. -

-Go ahead. - It was the answer. -

          The two spent squanting and waving militarily. It was still a curious spectacle, since the two wore dresses that let you guess a good part of their charms. Despite that situation that, in another circumstance, Yener would find highly stimulating, the young man did not change the serious gesture he maintained and asked them.

- Would you like to go home?

- Home, sir? - asked the stunned Renar who added. – I don't understand. Precisely we were going to return to our stays after dinner.

Yener squeezed out a faint smile, and nuanced

-I mean home. . house,ensign.

Both girls exchanged bewildered glances again.

"Excuse me, my captain. Have we done anything reprehensible? - He dared to ask Menera. -

              Perhaps that of going out among comrades in arms was not something too appropriate. They used to turn a blind eye especially when they were of the same rank. Although that was something that between them had changed after the rise ofMenera, being now superior to Jilia. And that is exactly what Lieutenant Delaier dared to suggest.

"Fear not, it's not that. See. - Yener explained to them already with a more relaxed tone.- I am going back to Yumlaiance, and I have the faculty to take with me a trusted team. Major Daet will come and I would like you to do it too. Possibly that will leadto an ascentfor the two por mor ofthe transfer.

           Once again the women exchanged looks of surprise and Menera couldn't help but smile, what a more meteoric career she was taking! If he were just a newly graduated ensign, he could become a first lieutenant in just a couple of years.

"At this step I will beat the great-grandmother. - She thought pleased. -

            Jilia also made cabals and with a hesitant tone wanted to know.

I understand that you take Major Daet and Lieutenant Renar as members of your scorecard on the ship, but I am from the commando operations group, from the land army. - Argued. -

-So don't worry. It will have a well-defined mission. One that requires someone of my complete trust. -  Replied his superior. - -

            And it is that during the afternoon he had received the visit of Gina. The girl told him that she was going to be appointed to the delegation that would depart from Omega to constitute the first embassy of the Confederation in Yumlaiance. That made Yener happy. The two, of course, overlooked that spontaneous kiss during the morning celebration. And the young woman commented to him.

-My mother has to call an assembly for tomorrow and that it be voted officially, but she believes that, given the circumstances, all the delegates will be in favor. Once he has the formal endorsement, he will be able to appoint ambassador, consul and attachés. I hope to go as a cultural attaché and be able to prepare. TheCommodore or  Cresat told him that we would have at least five days before you depart.

"Yes, I have to leave things settled and appoint substitutes for the officers who come with me. Among others these will be  Larus and I hope that Lieutenant Delaier and Ensign Renar  will join him. - Admitted his interlocutor. -

-In that case I will be prepared. - The girl smiled adding with pleasure. – I know all three of them and it will be a pleasure to travel in their company.

"And for us it is an honor to be able to take you to Yumlaiance and help you in everythingwehavefor."

-Thank you very much. - Answered Gina who said goodbye with a see you soon. -

    Yener remembered that as he added in response to Ensign Renar's question.

With us will come senior Omega officials, including Miss Gina LArans, the daughter of the president and the head of the space police. Ensign Renar, or, rather, go thinking about your new rank of lieutenant if you accept, I will entrust your safety to you in person.

- Me, sir? - The questioner was surprised. –

-With your file you are a great choice. Expert in hand-to-hand combat, guerrilla tactics and commandos and surveillance. I don't think Miss Larans can be safer with anyone else.

That flattered Jilia, though it also surprised her. I also didn't think it was so much. After all, they would leave for Yumlaiance and assume that they would do so escorted by a war flotilla powerful enough that no one dared to try anything against them. But if Captain Rant required his presence, it would be for something, so he just declared.

- Yes sir. You will not be disappointed.

-I hope so, you are the personal bet of Major Daet and mine. - Yener confided to them who now turned to Menera to  comment. - And you, first lieutenant, with almost immediate effect if you have to accept, will be my personal assistant. He has done his job here with a high degree of competence and I prefer to have an officer whom I know and trust.

-Thank you sir, for me it will be an honor. - The young woman agreed. -

Yener nodded to end that meeting.

- I regret that you had to come at such untimely hours and in the middle of your leave, but I can assure you that these next few days you will have them free to prepare for the transfer.

"Don't worry, my captain. - He hurriedly retorted Menera. -

-Colonel from now on. - His superior clarified to him. -

"Thank you and good evening, my colonel. - Jilia said. -

And after greeting again the two left. As soon as she left, Menera took her partner's hands exclaiming enthusiastically.

- You realize! Let's move up!

-Yes, it is great news. - His contertulia agreed. -

-Now you will have to pay for the next dinner. - Menera smiled amusedly. -

-A moment, beautiful. If my memory does not fail me, you will also ascend, then you will continue to earn more than me. - He laughed. -

-You better pay yourself next time. - She was jokingly threatened by her partner, whispering in her ear with a tone between lustful and inciting. - Otherwise I will arrest you in your room, strip you naked and tie you to a pole and then...

- Then what? - Jilia inquired equally between erotic and full of desire.-

-Then... You'll see...

- Well, I'm almost tempted to disobey to get you to arrest me! - Jilia River. -

          He then hugged his partner with a long, intense kiss on the lips. The two went to their rooms to finish celebrating what was left at night. Anyway, despite the first impression of enthusiasm on the part of both it was Jilia who did not quite understand that.

-Yes, we have not done our tasks badly, especially Menera has performed well as assistant to the captain... colonel. - She corrected herself, while reflecting. – However, I don't know, there is something weird.

His disquisitions were interrupted by his girlfriend, who jokingly called her by her full name to ask.

-Jilia Yari Renar. Why do you have such a serious expression?

The young woman was almost never questioned by her middle name, and in fact she did not usually give it. They named it after one of the mythical heroines yumlaincer. As a child she liked to be called that, but later events in her life made her want to forget about it. Although it evidently appeared on his file, along with his other surname. That now was not the case and she dedicated a bewildered look to her partner, who in turn watched her between stunned and funny.

- Come now! - Menera insisted by slapping him on the butt to say. – We have to celebrate it not to think about it.

That was the girl he loved. Totally unwrapped, cheerful and full of desire to have fun. Although he had his own past full of demand. Apparently she was meeting expectations and that encouraged her even more. Jilia smiled nodding. Perhaps it is that she herself was hopeless paranoid. They were giving them a magnificent opportunity for their careers. Why think so much?

"You're right, I promise you that we will undo it in a big way. - He secured by catching his partner's face and giving him another heartfelt kiss on the lips. -

And they went to it. Gina for her part was equally happy, although she wasn't going to celebrate in the same way. He thought of some words and advice given to him by his parents when he decided to embark on a diplomatic career.

-Gina, you will have to suffer many inconveniences and endure a lot of troubles. It will happen to you anywhere you need to go, if you really want to make a career in your mother's trade. - He said Pierre. -

Lora nodded in solidarity and her daughter did the same with some gravity, and then smiled again.

I know what it entails, and I think I'll be prepared to take on that responsibility. I hope to followyour  example. -  Lis commented on that occasion. -

He was more than aware  that his parentswere  right. Now he was meditating on his next adventure, that transfer to Yumlaiance. I would feel alienating Gordon, Kira and Peter, but being objective,there was no reason to quit for that kind of thing. Such an opportunity would hardly present itself again, and if I had it again, it would certainly  be after a long time.

-There will be many with more seniority and punctuation than me. My only advantage now is that I have appreciable knowledge of yumlaincer and the community language, things that the rest of the applicants lack. However, if I let this occasion pass, many of my colleagues will learn and take precedence.  It could take years to get a place for another world.

And apart from that, which was so, above all it was a challenge, for their preparation and for their ownfeelings. She had always shied away from conflict, but she knew she wouldn't be able to do it for a lifetime. If he intended to fight for something worthwhile, it was precisely because of this.

"Yes, I will go, I willgo,"  she declared now completely convinced, thinking of her parents and her friends.

In turn, when his daughter Pier was gone, he breathed and after a brief pause of silence, Colonel Larans, went on to more serious things, or, rather, of planetary interest, sitting again on the sofa with one leg crossed over the other and asking his wife.

"I almost forgot. I will have to ask for an increase in the defense budget. A few morewar cruisers would suit usvery well. At the height of this situation I am afraid that they will even be necessary.

-Each thing in its own time. - Lorasighed. - Tomorrow I have to propose the vote to send the corresponding embassies,consulates and staff. That in itself will have a significant cost to our coffers. Perhaps I can include on the agenda your proposal for increased defense spending. What I don't know is whether the worlds of confederation will be willing to pay for more cruises. You were awarded four and were generous given the circumstances.

Pierre nodded, but it didn't take long for him to argue.

-Flower, things have changed radically. Before we only  had the suspicion that Cassiopeia wanted to attack us, now we have the certainty. They have openly declared war on us with this attempt to destroy the Earth. I don't think the representatives of the confederation are going to refuse to invest in the security of their worlds.

-Yes, surely you are right. I deeply dislike that we have come to this situation.

I know everything you've tried to avoid it. - Pierre encouraged her by lying her hair as he added. - Unfortunately, no one could have made it. Tirelius must have very specific plans.  It was only a matter of time before he did what he did. It has been limiting itself to adding power and looking for an excuse.

"It is very difficult for me to accept that in his world no one has opposed his totalitarian and warmongering  drift," Lora sighed.

We received a confidence from someone in the opposition, but they didn't know that the general was willing to go that far. Some of our agents there have found that the first ones surprised were those of the Nerus party, and also many of those who are prone to Tirelius. A great stir has been made in Cassiopeia.

"Maybe they won't attack us yet. Tirelius will need time to calm the waters on his own planet and I doubt very much that he wants to wage a war having his own people divided. One of two, either gets them to believe that the Confederacy is to blame for everything,or it makes sure to have an ace up its sleeve that it allows it to guarantee a quick victory in case of war conflict and thus dispel any serious opposition. –

Yes, unfortunately nothing unites more than an external enemy. - Pierre had to agree. –

                And they weren't the only ones to makebullets. The next day, members of the Quadruple Alliance received the news that a combined fleet of their four planets was heading there.

- Wow, this is incredible!, I still don't understand how they have sent so many ships. - Larus declared astonished to find out. - What Cassiopeia has done has been so serious that it must have even worried our governments.

        He was sharing lunch with Yener and Nerel, the latter listened carefully to answer insightfully.

I don't think it's merely due to the presence of those of Cassiopeia.

-On that I agree with you. Strategically they are too far away and we are not of interest to Tirelius. Iam rather  inclined that they should know what you told us. - Yener added worriedly when sentencing. - The threat of the Nephralers must be even more serious than it seems.

"You don't have to be so alarmist," Nerelreplied. -  It may not be just that. Or maybe it doesn't have to do with it.

- From your words it gives the impression that you have had time to spy a little more. Doyou already know anything else that we do not know? -  Yener asked him with marked retintin.  -

"Nor am I an oracle. I don't knoweverything. - His interlocutor smiled  and seemed to rejoice in the face that his listeners put on when they heard him give such an  answer. -

Yener, above all, was quite fed up with such evasive or meaningless retorts. The ability to talk a lot and say nothing about that nataclier exasperated him to unsonetected limits. More when I could not get anything out of him, not even using his disciplines of Kail. He would have willingly screwed his brain sometimes with a psychic attack to "make him confess." But it would violate a lot of protocols and agreements. And besides Nerel was unaffordable to a mere groping. That is why the nataclier was not surprised that Yener commented with contained irritation but well perceptible to anyone who listened to him.

"I'm starting to get tired of your riddles. Will you ever deign to give a clear answer?

Nerel only shrugged, wondered how much more Yener was going to be bothered by that gesture and could see not without satisfaction,  how much. Fortunately,  Larus  was very attentive to that and chose to mediate as usual.

"Give him a break, Yener," he asked his friend. - Nerel is not aware of everything that happens.

Nataclia's nodded knowing that the time had come to be conciliatory to say with much more kindness.

"I thank you for having me in such high esteem, but Larus is right. I have access to limited information, I am only a mere intelligence officer, not the head of the service, Yener.

Yumlaiance's had an internal debate, I didn't know it was more irritating in that nataclier, its punctilious and enigmatic tone or its purported cordiality. Both gave him a hundred kicks, but in this case the guy seemed to be sincere. Although I couldn't be sure about it either. In the case of that bastard, I would be hiding some card with a trick. And if Yener were to discover her, Asety would respond to her in the style of fortune tellers. "You didn't ask me that" or "you didn't interpret what I meant correctly." And he would declare something like that undeterred by his stupid smile. –

- What a pity of psychic attack, even if it was a small one, to make his head hurt for a while! - Yener thought with resigned frustration. –

"Well, now let's leave those topics," Terció Larus, who, to encourage his companion, offered him. - What do you think if when we are back on the ship we set up a party? Fremark's day will not be long in it.

Yener smiled. That was a good idea and he liked his friend's offer for two reasons. First, to make Larus promise that he would sing something. Second to annoy Nerel. Firstly, because the nataclier was not going to be in it, secondly so that Yener himself could stop sketching out that avinagrade gesture that he would surely have until this moment and replace it with another relaxed one in order to stop amusing that damn nataclier. He thought he had succeeded when he returned to the charge with another of his sharp observations, which as always seemed to be disguised with the best of intentions.

"What does surprise me is that they have relievedyou." -  Asety said then. -As I understand it you were doing very well at the head of the military delegation in the embassy.

-Maybe that'swhy. -  Terció Larus not jokingly as he used to do but with a deep reflective tinge. -

Yener did not answer, maybe in this the nataclier was really sincere. Objectively speaking, its management could not be valued negatively. And Larus' last observation was very sharp. Perhaps it was too well on its way.  Lieutenant Daet, for his part, had had the opportunity to speak with his partner on account of that same transfer. The day before, lying together, I commented on something in a hurry.

-We will have to separate for some time. I would have preferred it not... but it's a good opportunity...

- Of course it is. - Terció Nerel placing a hand on those of her boyfriend to sentence. - You'd be dumb if you didn't take advantage of it. And fear not, we will meet again soon.

-How are you so sure? – Larus inquired, observing him with a surprised gesture. –

-There are permissions, right? - The nataclier smiled. –

- Yes, of course. – Affirmed his partner who sighed to say. -I envy Jilia and Menera, they have the opportunity to return together.

-That happens to you for having messed with a nataclier. – Nerel commented. -

- If Yener heard you I'm sure she would agree to that! - Larus River. -

However, he was happy, his partner supported him and that was the important thing. Nerel understood perfectly well that the transfers and other changes they had to face were inevitable given his profession. Larus didn't ignore him either. Anyway, those speculations ceased because at the end of lunch Cresat arrived to join them,thus removing him from those thoughts. After getting up greeting with the respect they owed to their superior, he told them.

-The first relays are going to arriveshortly, a few ships have beenadetado and in them admiral IrianTolert travels.

"Wow, one of the heads of the fleet, sir. - Commented the perplexed Yener. -

That man had a distinguished record of service and had gained experience in the neutral zone. That's why it looked really very serious. Both Yener and Larus thought so. They followed their superior, accompanied by Nerel, they were also joined by some diplomats and military from Ciloner and Akapler. Leirana was among them, in the group of those waiting for the arrival of the new authorities. Everyone greeted each other immediately and the Rear Admiral commented on them.

The admiral will give us an update on how things are in our systems and the measures to be taken. For our part we will give you as much information as you require.

Everyone nodded. Leirana approached Yener enough to be able to send her a direct telepathic message.

"I've known that you leave us. I will be very sorry to lose your company.

- The same thing I say, I wish you good luck. - He replied in the same way. –

They had to leave those messages because Cresat commented, looking towards the landing zone.

"I guess that's where the admiral arrives.

"We'll know soon, sir. - Larus intervened by pointing to a ship that was landed in the astroport. -There they are.

It was indeed the landing shuttle of the commander-in-chief of that flotilla so nourished. A  group of soldiers formed to render honors and a full representation of dignitaries of the confederation of worlds awaited as well. Cresat, Yener and the others headed there and waited alongside Lora,  Pierre and a few other representatives of the various planets. The president recalled that just a few hours before she was informed by the legations of the Quadruple Alliance of that arrival.

With your permission, a flotilla of support comes towards your space. - The Ciloneres ambassador told him that he was in the turn of spokesperson of his Alliance. –

- What is its purpose? - I want to know Lora. –

In view of the latest developments, we wish to comply with the treaty of mutual support and assistance. These ships are a guarantee to dissuade other worlds from initiating any kind of war scale. – His interlocutor replied. –

Evidently he was alluding to Cassiopeia, but Lora knew that they were not going to name the planet of Tirelius explicitly. That was because, technically, he had done nothing against the worlds of the Quadruple Alliance. In any case, that kind of support was very welcome and could give the Confederacy precious time to make the necessary defensive preparations.

"I will be delighted to receive your compatriots and allies. - She replied solemnly. -

So there he was, he once brought it to the attention of the Assembly and Pierre. Now everyone was watching that shuttle that  openedup,  from it, preceded by a platoon of soldiers descended Admiral  Tolert  and the Count of  Celies. The first was a  tall,  burly middle-aged man, and  dark hair and  mustache.  The other, more in years,with gray hair and shorter than his companion. Lora on behalf of the  Federation of Planets welcomed them and after the greetings of rigor and once they were completed by their hosts,  the admiral, went on to address his officers. Cresat and the others squared up and waved on the spot.

-Rest. - He asked them  to Tolerate. -  I'm  glad to meet you at last!, I have excellent references from  you. -  After a few moments he resumed his words introducing the new ambassador – I have the honour to introduce you toCount  Onit  de  Celies. Appointed by his imperial majesty as  Yumlaiance'snew ambassador toOmega.

The aforementionedimmediately took the floor to address  Cresat  asking.

- You arethe outgoing ambassador right?

- Yes sir, and the predecessor of our first ambassador. - He added, pointing his gaze at Yener.

The Count devoted his attention to that boy, he was surprised of course that he was so young and invited him with a gesture to take the floor.

-It is an honor to meet him, excellence. -  declared the boy, introducing himself. - Captain Yener Rant, transferred to the army with the rank of Colonel.

-Very well, I have for you a personal message from your mentor of the Kail, the  master Azor  Ligero. - The count informed you by taking out a parchment sealed with the seal of the monastery that he gave to his young interlocutor. -  You should know that the  emperoris very satisfied with his work andthat his  return is only due to the interest that some of the highest instances of our planet have for you.

-Thank you, excellence. - Replied a stunned Yener, briefly examining that envelope without opening it yet. -

-Very well. - Admiral Tolert  smiled  taking the word quite    campechana for the occasion. -  I guess you will have questions to ask us. Talk  then, that I want to answer them and go to rest. This journey has been really long.

"Sir," Cresat respectfullysaid. -  If it is not inconvenience I think we are all here surprised that a fleet of such tremendous dimensions has been sent...

-Sí,I imagined. - The admiral snorted and responded nonchalantly. The high staff of the Quadruple Alliance has judged that, in view of the dimensions of the space discovered and the number of new planets that have come into play, we must increase the center of operations of our fleets. Separating their bases between them, because if they continued with the model that prevailed there would be a great imbalance of distance. Thus, in the case of our world, the second fleet will be installed in the area of Omeg aand will be fully dedicated to operations related to itsconfederation. The third will go to the Neger system in the southwestern quadrant  in the so-called neutral zone to monitor our borders with the Nephralers and the first will be in our own solar system, not far from Yumlaiance.

"Butsir, if I may. -  OBjetó Yener with slow and coherent talk. -Although our fleets are large, it is too much distance that will separate them, they will not be able to support themselves as before.

"Don'tworry,  Colonel." - Tolert  smiled  almost condescendingly. -  That's what the fleets of the other allied worlds are for. We will take turns and sometimes squads of one and the other will be positioned in intermediate places in order to maintaincommunication.  Nataclia's fleet will be the first to deal with the link. Right,  Lieutenant? - He inquired nerel who immediately agreed on it with great courtesy and respect.

- Naturally sir. You can count on us.

- Ja, ha! - rior the admiral adding for the Nataclier. -  Ihope they do better than in football!Wehave beaten them three to one!

Yener and Larus smiled, even Rear Admiral Cresat seemed amused by that comment while Nerel was embarrassed and above all surprised to respond with his invariable equanimity.

-Well, I  congratulate you sir, although again we will win.

-Si, Isuppose, but I wanted to find  a Nataclier  here to rub it. - Rior the admiral with desire at the same time that he continued with a conciliatory tint. -  Don't take it  badly, it's  a joke.

-No, of course  sir.- Nerelnodded  stoically enduring the giggles of his  friends,  especially those of Yener who was taking his personal revenge and seemed to enjoy quite a bit.  -

However, everyone had been surprised that the admiral made no mention of the events that occurred in that distant plant called Earth and the escalation of hostilities between the Confederation of Omega and its former member, Cassiopeia. Yener and almost everyone else assumed that made sense. As the chancelleries of their respective planets had agreed, that incident had nothing to do with the Quadruple Alliance. Therefore, Cassiopeia was not going to be asked to explain for it, nor was that world expected to be hostile.  The Count of  Celies  for his part, ignoring football matters, intervened   again addressing Cresat and  Yener.

-I would like us to have the opportunity to talk and to get up to date with how things are here. I would like to take care of everything as soon as possible in order to leave you free for your travel arrangements.

"Wewill inform you of everything with great pleasure," replied  Cresat.

Although Yener saw the opportunity to clear one of the doubts that most disturbed him and terció adding.

- If you had the goodness, excellence, admiral. Hay something that worries us and that I must ask you.

"With yourpermission, sir. -  Nerel intervened. -  I have to go and inform my superiors.

-Of course, you canleave. - He was authorized by the admiral who immediately invited Yener to continue more clearly once Asety had left and even seemed to be anxious for him to do so when he added with urgency. -Tell us  colonel!

-The officer who had just left informed us that they had had indications of the possible presence of  Nephralers spacecraft in a solar system not far from here. An appreciable fleet according to theirestimates. Could it not be that they have brought so many ships to this sector  because of it?-  Yener asked him in turn.    -

Everyone's faces became expectant as the admiral took a few moments to respond.

"Indeed," hedeclared. -  We received your report via subspace when we were heading here. We already knew the movements of the  Nephraler fleet, but it does not have enoughors  effective to seriously disturb us. We know that they have made some incursions beyond their systems and that some of their ships have headed here. But according to military intelligence it is no more than a small exploration group.  With the forces  already highlighted previously near the Omega space we could face them in case of need. This deployment is due, as I have already explained, to a strategic restructuring.

"That leaves us calmer without a doubt," said Cresat, who wanted to know in turn. -  So what will happen to the ships featured here to  date?

"They will return to Yumlaiance, they have earned a break. - The admiral replied to them by statingbelow. -You will  also return. The high command of the fleet wants you to take avacation.  His work here has been more than meritorious and we are very pleased.

"Thank you sir," replied the aforementioned visibly relieved  because he noticed that his superior did not say it with double intention, as in cases of relief due to little competition.  -

- Wow, sir! - Yener smiled visiblysatisfied. -  We become together!

Actually quite a few officers  and  troops who have served here will be given permission to return if they so wish. - The admiral revealed tothem. -Since we are here the relays. Now let's go eat  something,  I'm starving.

Everyone laughed relaxedly happily at the prospect of returning home. For some it had been many  tirs,almost a yare, since they were sent to Omega. So,  after sharing a lunch with the general staff, Yener was ready to leave all his things ready.

-In just two days another important change in my life. We'll see what the gods have in store for me. - Thought the young officer. -

And in the meantime, omega's three heroes were still enjoying their vacation, still in the orbitalstation.

-Very interesting this space base. It looks like we were in the field. - Peter commented when they were walking through a large park full of trees and that even had a river.

They climbed an escalator as they looked around, also listening to motley conversations. A woman was ur urcing a man to get hold of his luggage and a customs inspector was asking a guy who looked scary when he heard him.

-Hey, you have nothing to declare? Moonstones, artistic objects from Tethys...

However, what did start laughing from them was listening to a troubled individual who asked aloud to anyone who took the trouble to listen to him.

-My bags! Where are my bags? Someone has seen my bags...

And he didn't stop still, going back and forth from here to there. After being stunned, the three young men couldn't help laughing. That was refreshing as it served to de-stress. After so many adventures and dangers it certainly seemed trivial to them. Then they saw almost with a stunned face as a large group of brats ran from one place to another clinging to a woman who barely managed to call them by their names asking for composure.

- Poor woman, what a horror! – Peter stated heartily. -

- We should go and help her and arrest those mequetrefes! - Gordon laughed. –

"Shut up, that would be a suicide mission. - His friend replied, frankly funny with all that. –

Kira moved her head slightly smiling. All those day-to-day tribulations almost became desirable after his recent experiences.

- Listen! - He then asked his friends who kept laughing and exchanging humorous comments about what they saw over  there.

The public address system at the base was announcing something that certainly interested them.

-The next flight to Earth is going to take place from platform number seven in four minutes. – You could hear. -

-I think it's over there. – Peter conjected. –

Both he and his companions walked a corridor towards the direction indicated by the public address system. Soon they were intercepted by a group of uniformed guys who very kindly approached them, the one who seemed to be in command, a man of short stature and gray hair greeted them militarily and asked them.

"It's the crew of the Dragonfly, right?

- That's the way it is. - Kira agreed. -

-You will leave platform number four, follow us, we will show you the way. - That guy said. –

The boys obeyed, they were surrounded by several of these individuals which despite everything did not arouse  misgivings, not even on the part of Gordon.  Although that  was addedtothat, walking thatroad,  theywent to the terminal withoutseeing any other passenger. They arrived at a boarding tunnel  where they saw several officers presenting them with weapons and waving. That did leave them stunned.

-Will we do well to follow hims,we do not know who they are? Kira commented when the three of them entered a shuttle and took seats in it. –

The truth is that the girl did not perceive anything particular, although she was aware that she did not always have the ability to feel all the dangers. Otherwise, I would never have gone to Saturn's rings in the first place.

"Maybe fate arranged that. After all, had Peter and Gordon not been there and come to rescue me, no one could have stopped that rocket from destroying Earth.

And sometimes I thought that there was some higher will that directed events. That is why he did not want to give more importance to his present situation. Nothing foreshadowed any problems. Peter joined that feeling when he joked with her exclaiming with feigned fear.

-Let's see if we have fallen prisoners of the Tiñoso!

-I don't think, the men of Tiñoso do not know how to smile. - Kira stated in the same light-hearted tone and then added. -I don't feel anything wrong.

His companions certainly didn't seem worried at all. Gordon looked out the window of the ship to contemplate the Earth and Peter was comforted trying to tease her. The shuttle took off with the boys comfortably installed  in it,  wishing  to descend at last to know first-hand the wonders of that mythical planet Earth,cradle of theirancestors and with Kira herself meditating on it. But no one would have been so  relaxed to know that in the meantime Tirelius, embarked on one of the destroyers of his fleet, attended impressed the military deployment of his allies who presented him with a surprising demonstration. Something that would restore the trust lost in them  after their  recent  failure.

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