UNC016E

**STORIES**

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**ESPAÑOL**

**Rescue cleared.**

The boys waved and left ready to make their preparations. Before contacting his commander Kira  proposed to go to ask for advice from Professor Enius, this, as a wise and reputed astronomer as well as inventor, would surely give them valuable help. His companion was satisfied with that apt suggestion and went to see him. Upon arriving at his laboratory they ran into an old friend, the  robot Metro,  who explained that he had been  renamed Copito by his creator.

"How long, I celebrate  restoring eye contact with you.– The android greeted  you.  -

-We are also glad to see youagain. - Peter replied funny for that particular way of talking.  -

-We have a new mission for which we could use your help. In fact, we were going to ask your creator for permission.  - Kira told him. -

-Si,I'm informed, it'skohler's sun,bad business. It has just  gone supernova,its first layers have already shot out and will soon reach the Constellation of the Tritons,a matter of days. –

He valued the android with the irrefutable source of data that he had and that confirmed without palliatives the suspicions of theboys.

-The problem is how much exact time we will have. - Peter objected. -

"It is something difficult to calculate accurately,"  replied  Copito,  "There are many variables that come into play, but my creator, Professor Maestro, has made estimates that only give us eighty-two hours. In my opinion, it carries out its calculations in a very primitive way, although I agree with the result. The fact is that he has instructed me to help them, he is busy in one of his experiments and cannot leave the laboratory. -The android concluded. -

-Just to get there it will take almost half! - Peter exclaimed little reassured with so nothing encouraging margin.  -

-We must hurry! - Third decidedly  Kira. -We have orders to appear before Commander Stevens. The  evacuation ships have to leave as soon as possible or else it will be a catastrophe.

"Andwe'll talk to the professor on the wayback,"  Peter urged.  -

Theboys and Copiteither  rushed to the take-off area and boarded theirrespectivebirds. Kira was assigned to a freighter named Ursus, Peter would go on the Hummingbird with Commander Stevens himself. They took off after obtaining permission from the control tower and accelerated at maximum speed towards the  Tritonsystem. From the astroport they were indicating.

-Cassidi ship,humanitarian rescue mission, set course for the Constellation of the Tritons, a cruiser goes back to escort them.

And one after another the various spaceships were receiving directions.

"I hope we arrive on time. - Graham commented when they were already leaving the planet, and joining the formation. -

They had to escort the Cosmopolitan, an intergalactic ship. The biggest and most luxurious of all. With a capacity of tens of thousands of passengers. Although not even this formidable cruise ship could accommodate all the refugees that were estimated to be on that planet. Other ships were joining. Captain  Agaar,in command of the cruiser Cobra, took care of escorting the freighter Ursus. In the cafeteria of that old pot, Kira and some colleagues of the space police were chatting.

-Anyway, let's hope that our help arrives on time. - The young woman commented to two of them. –

- I hope so. - Another lieutenant who knew her answered to add. - Thanks to the work of your cousin Elisa and her astronomical observation group we have an opportunity to rescue thousands of people. -

Kira smiled, yes, she would have liked very much to have had the opportunity to greet her cousin, but unfortunately time was of the essence and she could not see her before receiving the mobilization order.

She and her partner took a big risk, all for giving us the most accurate information possible. - He declared with pride and gratitude. -

"We need more  people like that in the Confederacy." - added another of his comrades. -

              Kira agreed to that. His cousin and many other scientists had an arduous task ahead of them and, above all, an enormous responsibility, not only to prevent that possible hecatomb that they hoped would not become a reality, but that the very components of the rescue expedition had put their lives in the hands of those calculations. A mistake and they would be equally destroyed by the shock wave of that dying star.

-I trust Professor Maestro and people like Elisa. They know very well what they are doing. - Meditated the girl. -

A few minutes before the departure of those ships, in the Council room, still empty because it did not correspond full until a few hours from now, Lora nervously scrutinized her data screen, there appeared all the available information about that star that had just exploded. So engrossed was she in it that she didn't realize her husband was coming to her.

"You're worried, it's  normal. -  Le whispered with an understanding and comforting tonehimself.  -

- How do you want it not to be? - She replenished her defensively and with a clear tinge of reproach - Our son and hundreds of other people travel on their way to that planetary system that is about to receive the shock wave of a supernova. You know as well as I do, that when it reaches the Tritons it will sweep away all the planets orbiting around it and disintegrate any ship that is in that area.

-I know perfectly, but we did nothave an  alternative. - Restored remains Pierre. -  Our son is an officer in Omega's space police and they have to do their duty. The same as Kira, or Gordon, and they  are  among  the best. If there is anyone who can make an exact balance of the situation and solve the difficulties, it is them.  It would not be fairto leave himorher on the sidelines for personalreasons.   But  quiet. - He added with optimism. -  They know how to manage very well and are resource guys,  they will return without novelty.

I pray to the Creator that you will be right and come back safe. It is no longer just about Peter, but about many more like him, who also have families who will be begging for them to return safely. - Declared the very worried Lora with the sympathetic look of her husband who shook his hands between his. -

At that moment Gina came in, the  girl was spinning her head about her own worries and was surprised and very uneasy to see her parents like this.

-What happens,why have they not indicated destination? - Wanted to know immediately. -

Her mother explained to her in a few words what was happening and the girl's countenance also became serious.

-I want to leave to help you. - She offered herself right away.  -

-Not  to mention! - He cut him sharply Pierre. - Your brother is already taking too much risk, I won't let you do it too. Inaddition, that task no longer corresponds to you.

The young woman had been as perplexed as she was angry when her brother, Kira and Gordon were assigned to various ships, but she was told instead that she was not part of any crew.

"But I can't sit idly by and donothing. - Refuted Gina visibly uneasy and even annoyed by that prohibition to insist. – I can  go in a light Dragonfly type ship to escort the passenger ships...

-The ships that escort the flotilla are cruisers. We could have problems with Cassiopeia and smaller ships would be no match for their nautilos. -  Lesaid Pierre.–

-Oh, come on, Dad! Neither did our cruises. - Gina objected. -

- It's enough. This is not a debate. - He cut this one sharply. – You will stay here, in Omega. Those are your orders.

-Daughter, you must understand that your current destiny has nothing to do with the operation of the patrols. - Lora intervened more conciliatoryly. -

"At least let me do something. I could ask our new allies for help. - The girl proposed trying to find a solution. -

          He thought of going to talk directly to Yener, even though he was no longer the ambassador he had enough influence with Commodore Cresat. At least that's what she believed. But his father explained to him, almost with resignation.

"It's a delicate matter, daughter. The Cassiopeia may be violating the provisions of our protocols if they were indeed building a base there and even though they have withdrawn from the Confederacy I don't think the Yumlaiance, nor their allies want to venture into something like that. Nor can we encourage the sending of forces outside the Confederation to a space of internal jurisdiction of a planet, even more so if it is no longer a member. We would risk an increase in the escalation of hostilities with Tirelius.

What if many lives were in danger? - Gina wanted to know. - Or are strategy and treaties more important? - He pointed with a reprobatory air. -

-Daughter. - Lora replied softly with her voice tinged with regret. - When you start your diplomatic career you will understand that, sometimes and no matter how much it hurts, you will have to make very difficult and painful decisions. Sometimes you have to choose between the lesser of evils.

And we must also put general interests before our own. We have no choice – Pierre. –

- Why will things have to be so unfair? - Gina wondered out loud and directing a dejected and worried look towards the observation screen of that room. -

-Not at all, we have sent those ships of the Confederation on a humanitarian mission. Despite Tirelius' bluster, as soon as he is informed by his own of Kohler's sun exploding I don't think he will get in the way of a massive rescue operation of his own people. - Pierre estimated. –

-It is true, they are at a greater distance, the news will reach them a few hours later. - Lora agreed that she had now fallen into it. –

When she wanted to alert that individual, she encountered his total disbelief and distrust, based on not having received any report in this regard. But sooner or later he would find out from his own experts and then assume that the landscape would change drastically. So he said.

"I'm not so sure, that man seems capable of anything. - Gina said. -

Everyone was significantly silent. Pierre  and Lora not knowing what to answer and Gina wondering about the direction things would take. But also in the headquarters of the Consulate of Cassiopeia confusion reigned. Reports from hours ago intercepted from the Omega space station, in the vicinity of the system, clearly reported that the star would explode in a short time. However, reports from Casiopea astronomers did not account for any concerns. The radio and energy oscillations of Kohler's sun were attributed to a rectification of gravitation, typical of its proximity to another much largerbluestar. In addition, these alarmist reports were thought to be a trap for him to discover his secret base and even admit it. The  consul  Naboth had informed Tirelius of everything who ordered him to send a squadron of star destroyers there to observe and avoid possible interference from the Confederacy.

The president thought I was stupid. Brave add to buy time! They won't get away with it. - The general declared that he sentenced as he had warned the president of Omega, addressing Holo conference to his General Staff. – I confirm the order to fire without warning at any Confederate ship that violates our borders.

-To the order, sir. - Greeted one of the admirals, before cutting off the transmission. -

            Meanwhile these alluded ships were approaching the space of Cassiopeia. Every moment counted. A squadron of Nautilos headed in an interception course towards them as soon as they entered their borders.

-We have orders to destroy them and without contemplation. The captain of one of these huge destroyers pointed him to one of his subordinates. - Cumplanlas.

         He waved obeying and without warning, that ship of Casiopea fired on the Ursus, the captain immediately alerted.

-They are attacking us, everyone to their posts, activate their protection shields. Cobra Cruise, they attack us! - He denounced maintaining a controlled tone of voice. -

That captain, surnamed Martan, was a very veteran man, with white hair and beard, was close to retirement and had gone through many adventures. However, being attacked by large warships while going to gamble against the explosion of a supernova had not been one of them.  Fortunately, they had been shot from the secondary batteries of that monstrous ship and the armor resisted, despite part of the ship being damaged.

-Captain, we have already informed the escort, we will intervene immediately. - Agaar replied. -

        Omega's light cruiser moved forward, having to dodge the shots of those nautilos. Graham intervened by addressing his assailants.

-Attention Cassiopeia, suspend in attack. We are fulfilling a humanitarian mission. If you persist we will be forced to respond.

          However, the enemy continued his attack and Graham ordered.

-Fire, and aim well, except in some points they are practically invulnerable.

           An exchange of fire ensued in which, unfortunately, the cruiser Cobra was hit and destroyed. Everyone was horrified as he exploded, taking the lives of many of his companions.

"You're going to pay me, rogues. - Graham muted. -

"My commander, leave it to me, we have to settle accounts those guys and me. - Peter asked him, who occupied a place in navigation. -

          Graham gladly agreed, Peter made some maneuvers that placed him dangerously close to the enemy. The Hummingbird expertly dodged some barrades until he got so close to one of those ships that he couldn't literally shoot them. In fact, they were so close that they could even see the astonished faces of cassiopeia through the windows of their command bridge.

"I'm going to send you a little gift to learn. - Peter sentenced, who, with rejoicing, added. - Now they can't touch us. Anyway, you are going to see what is good, scoundrels. Delayed explosion torpedoes, ready, fire! -Ordered. -

          The Hummingbird sent a barrage of torpedoes that pierced the armor of the nautilo, although they did not explode.

- And now? - Graham wanted to know. -

-Wait. - The boy asked him, moving the ship away. -

          And a few seconds later there were several explosions that shook the Hummingbird and destroyed the entire bow part of that huge enemy ship, leaving it useless. Those of Cassiopeia threw escape pods while everyone applauded in the Confederate ship.

- Well done, Peter! - Graham exclaimed really pleased that he could have taken full revenge. -

Considering the way they attacked their enemies, they had at least given them the opportunity to escape that they did not give to the brave captain Agaar  and his patrolmen. Although when that news reached Tirelius he rode in anger.

- I swear I'll get paid! Admiralty, order my cruisers to attack and destroy all Omega ships, military or civilian heading to the Tritons, immediate execution!

            However, he had hardly finished giving that order, when one of his officers appeared on the screen with a serious gesture and trembling tone to communicate to him.

-General, news of the Tritons, announce that kohler's sun has just exploded.

- What? How does it say? - He was able to ask the stunned Tirelius. -

             And in tenths of a second he understood the gravity of the situation, he immediately called once again to his general staff.

-Admiralty, annulment of the above instructions. Direct all your ships to the Tritons, mission save the material. Understood? The material first! Men after.

             And it is that all that installation had cost him a fortune. He could barely persuade enough members of the Senate to get the funding and now all that could disappear in just an instant.

- Damn it! I don't know what's worse, whether to lose all that fabulous base that we've built with so much effort and so much cost or to have to suffer Senator Nerus.

Tirelius did not doubt that as soon as his rival knew, he would surely enjoy reminding him that he was already warned from that kind of pulpit of superiority with which he always spoke to him.

"He despises me, he thinks he's better than me. Damn old moralist! He has done nothing for our planet, I have. - He said he claimed himself. -

And what was worse, it might even come to his mind to encourage a motion of censure against him. Normally he would never have a chance of it succeeding, but in view of the magnitude of the disaster that lay ahead, even the traditionalists could for once join forces with those of Nerus.

"No, I won't allow it. Avoid it anyway! - Tirelius muttered by punching the table on which he was leaning.

Meanwhile, Yener had shown up at his superior's office. When he told him what happened, he nodded.

A star near a base in Cassiopeia has exploded. The situation is very serious. However, neither we, nor the other worlds of the Quadruple Alliance, are going to intervene. I have made urgent contact with the ambassadors of Nataclia, Ciloner and Akapler. And we have all agreed. We will not risk provoking Cassiopeia, as things stand.

-Apparently it is a humanitarian crisis of the first magnitude. - Yener reviewed. – Tens or hundreds of thousands of people could die.

- I know. - Cresat sighed, adding with regret. – And I really regret it. But, even if we wanted to intervene, we do not have adequate ships. Only part of one squad has been assigned here.

-Any ship of medium or large size would work. - The boy affirmed, refuting that. –

We cannot risk the loss of an attack cruiser, or even a light one. The balance of forces is very tight. These are the orders that have come to me from Dumlans. - His superior answered him. –

- Tight? But that, is absurd...- He wanted to protest. -

-Listen to me well,  Yener. -  He was cut off by his superior, more with tinges of advice than of warning. - When we receive an order of superiority it is not for us to enter into debates about the suitability or not of it, but to abide by it immediately.

-Yes, sir. - The young man sighed resignedly, who instead added with concern. – And despite everything, a flotilla of the Confederacy goes there trying to rescue as many people as possible. It's suicide.

- I totally agree. - The commodore agreed. -

-It would not be stressed to send some observation craft. Simply to collect data that can be used to send a report to the high general staff. Staying out of that space, of course. It would be a way to show our support, without compromising or risking any of our ships. We would not go to their aid, technically we would not disobey any order. And we could even propose it to our Quadruple allies. - Yener suggested. –

That made his contertulio think, maybe that wasn't a bad idea. At last Cresat nodded. Both looked at each other complicitly and the commodore added.

-We send a cruise with order to observe and stay away from the sight of those of Cassiopeia.  It will be the Dureor, the one you command. If something unforeseen happens we will see, I will notify our allies, if we send a ship each one it would already be a support flotilla ...

-To order. - Yener greeted, who immediately left to give the appropriate instructions. -

           For their part, Omega's ships watched with relief as the nautilos broke contact and headed towards the same planet as them. From the Ursus, which was the slowest of the flotilla, they observed how the other spaceships entered the orbit of the planet, when the first asteroids and fragments of comets displaced by the shock wave of the supernova began to fall.

-This is only the beginning of the end. There are still a few hours left for the wave of the explosion to reach this planet, but only the meteorites and debris that it has  already propelled here are enough to tear us to pieces. - Commented the captain of the Ursus. -

-As they said in the past, we are playing Russian roulette with the magazine full of bullets, captain. - Commented on his deputy, a middle-aged, short-haired guy, surnamed  Sanders. -

Our moral duty is to rescue these poor people. - Martandeclared. -

            Kira nodded, she had gone to the command bridge to witness the evolutions of the rescue flotilla. After just two hours all the ships were already taking off from that planet, loaded with refugees. This was stated by her, as the Ursus was preparing to enter precisely into the atmosphere.

"Look, Kohler's sun has become nova, captain. And down there, the planet of the Tritons, and there our ships return with many refugees.

-Amessage,  captain. - One of the crew intervened, showing him a holo screen. -

-Mission accomplished, the bulk of men and teams have abandoned the planeta, our police forces have been left there so that panic does not take over the women and children waiting for help. - Read to sentence. -  Let'shurry. We are late and every minute, every second, counts.

       Then, and although racidated by the interferences, she received a call from Peter.

- How are you going? - Wanted to know this one. -

-We are making the descent into the stratosphere. - She informed him. -

"Hurry up, there are still a lot of people here. We have set up a checkpoint with a few dozen officers, but it will not be enough to maintain order and calm all the refugees.

-I'm afraid this ship is very vieja and nothing fast. You must make the descent carefully or we could disintegrate in the atmosphere. - Copito intervened who was near Kira. -

That's not to mention the increasing rain of asteroids that were reducing the surface to an amalgam of explosions and craters. Fortunately they were going to an area of the planet that was in the opposite direction to the collision course of those aeroliths, which crashed mostly on the other side of that world. Even so, the danger of being hit and destroyed by one of those colossal rocks existed and increased as the minutes passed. Captain Martan  recorded his expertise and experience and managed to land the ship very close to the main complex where the remaining refugees who remained to evacuate were overcrowded. Kira went down with Copito and not without difficulty they managed to meet with Peter, in the middle of a large crowd that immediately broke the fragile police cordon.

-Haveserenity, please, haveserenity! - The young man shouted unsuccessfully. -

Both he and his few troops were overwhelmed, especially when they saw the freighter Ursus land. The terrified crowd ran there.

- Peter! - Kira squealed for the young man to discover her. -

I couldn't concentrate to connect telepathically. So he had to scream. At last the two met. Peter ordered some of the policemen to form on the sides of the freighter's entrance, in order to try to manage the rise of the refugees in the best possible way.  After a few difficult moments  presided over by anxiety and panic, people seemed to calm down when they saw that they could access the ship. Kira, Peter and Copito went up to order the accommodation of all those who were arriving.

-Rest assured, everyone will embark, there is room for everyone. - The girl said incessantly to those who came on board.-

                 On the other hand, some Cassiopeia ships had landed, launching disassembly robots that tried to take as many valuable items from the base as they could. And their officers and crew seemed totally indifferent to the anguish of the poor wretched they had left there to their fate.

- The very scoundrels ignore their own people! - Peter muted when he saw that. -

"And we better ignore us, Lieutenant. - Sanders commented, who was passing by him. -

        Peter didn't retort, just then Kira asked him.

- And in the population, do you think there will be someone there?

The boy then turned to the captain.

-We should take a look at the city, there could be someone left.

-You have to hurry, everything is going to burn. - Answered this one. -

- But what if there were more people in the city? - The young officer insisted. -

- Okay. - Martan conceded.- Go see, but hurry up.

           Peter did not repeat it, along with Kira and Copito boarded a glider ship with capacity for a couple of dozen people. They immediately flew over the city in search of possible hidden refugees.

-Possibly they have seen the ships of Casiopea arrive and are afraid toshow themselves,for fear of some kind of reprisal.- Copito conjectured. -

           Kira connected the speakers of her vehicle and testified with emphasis and insistence.

-If there is someone left in the houses who leaves, it is dangerous to continue there, the last ship will leave the planet in a few moments. Do not be afraid, we are here to help you, do not be afraid, let yourself be seen.

         At last, they descended when they glimpsed a woman running carrying a child in her arms. His clothes were quite torn, and his tone was desperate.

-Please save us, save us. - He repeated in the language of the Confederacy, with a strong Accent of Cassiopeia. -

           Peter posed the ship and they were able to pick up that woman and the child. Kira took the boy in her arms to help him climb up. Soon, a few more people joined them. The ground was shaking and earthquakes were beginning to crack it. More fragments of asteroids were arriving that preceded the deadly shock wave.

-We don't have much time left. - Estimated Copito. - One hour at most.

          Peter took the ship to another place where they saw more people, they were running out to them.

-Hurry, do not waste a second, let's go! Let's go! - He urged those poor wretched people who were running for their lives.-

"Wait a minute, there, there's someone. Copito said he had detected something inside a large building with his infrared vision. -

-Bring it. - Peter asked him. -

           The android went inside that building that threatened to collapse in a few minutes, from there he left with a little one on his shoulders. The boy, oblivious to danger, was delighted to have the opportunity to play with that robot. Copito went up with him, urged by Peter.

- Quick, it's a matter of seconds! - Sentenced the officer who immediately took off towards the Ursus. -

           A fragment of aerolith fell close to them, causing a thunderous explosion and a large crater. Fortunately, the effects did not reach them. They continued to fly at full speed until they reached the freighter that was already rising.

-Fast, fast, only you are missing, if one of those gossips falls near us we are lost. - The captain told them. -

          They finally entered one of the ship's holds, making the refugees they were carrying out of the slider. While some crew members accommodated these people, they went to the command bridge. The Ursus had already come out of the atmosphere and the vision was Dantesque. The planet was burning almost entirely, bombarded by large fragments of rock. But that wasn't the only thing that troubled them. Direct to them came a squadron of nautilos and murenas from Cassiopeia.

"But what do they want from us?" Where the hell are those going? - The perplexed captain exclaimed. -

Clearly it was not an attack on the Ursus, moreover, those ships passed them without paying attention to them towards the planet they had just abandoned. Martan  could hardly add as stunned as he was frightened.

- They're crazy! They are going to their perdition! They should flee quickly.

             And the facts did not take long to prove the captain right. One of the aeroliths hit a ship of the murena class that exploded. Unfortunately, fragments of this hit the Ursus, which already dragged previous breakdowns due to the attack suffered. All the alarms went off. Some structural gaps had opened up in the hull.

-General alert, the controls do not respond. - Announced the robotic voice of the freighter with the unmistakable dispassion and monotonous reiteration of a machine.- Emergency repair, general alert. Main generator damaged. General alert.

-All relief teams in action. - Ordered the captain without stopping smoking in his pipe. - Maximum speed, it is absolutely necessary to get out of here. I ask the computer the situation of the nearest planets with atmosphere, because then we will not go very far. We have to pose quickly. - He ruled sitting in his command chair. -

            Peter was standing on his right and Sanders on his left, both trying to analyze the situation.

-Try to communicate with Omega. - Peter suggested. -

-The radio does not work, we try to repair. - The captain replied. -

-We have lost contact with the flotilla. - Sanders made it known, indicating. - We must chart course to get away from the shock wave of the supernova.

             Luckily for them the rudder and navigation did work and the ship tried to move away from the area of influence of that shock wave. Although it was essential to land in a world with atmosphere since the hull was at the limit of its resistance, also overloaded by the weight of so many passengers.

- How far are we from the safe zone? - Wanted to know Martan  -

- Not enough, sir! - replied the frightened navigator who dealt with those calculations. -

"What could wedo,  sir?" asked Sanders in a desperate tone.

- Does this ship have an auxiliary system that can increase power? Peter asked what he allowed himself to get into that dramatic conversation. -

"No," the captain denied, explaining. -We only have the main engine and the one that regulates the vital functions and the shields.

- Could you make a deviation of energy to increase the speed?  -Inquired Peter. -

"That would be very risky as well as being useless," Sanders replied, looking at him with inquisitiveness.  -

That seasoned first officer was irritated that a little boy on the patrol got into the affairs of his ship. Although he evidently did not say that, he did object.

-We need the shields to maintain the structure of the helmet or we will split in half.

-It is the only solution. - Kira also intervened as conciliatorily as she could in the midst of that urgency. - The other systems will not help us if the shock wave reaches us.

-Perhaps we can divert a part and leave enough to reinforce the case. - Peter estimated. -

"I don't see why not." replied the captain, "Although I don't know if in practice it can be done. The number of calculations would be too large and expensive in the short time we have.

- Could you do it, Copito? - Peter asked the android. -

-It is possible if I check the plans of the ship. By connecting to the on-board computer I will have all the necessary data. - The robot replied. -

- Go ahead then! - The captain urged with a new, more lively tone. - We don't have much time, the shock wave will reach us within fifteen minutes. - He sentenced before the disapproving gaze of his second. -

The robot was hooked to the data and after a few seconds it separated declaring.

"It won't be difficult,  but I need help. You have to cut some cables and redo several connections.

- God bless you, friend!, let's go there, I will help you. - Peter immediately offered himself with visible enthusiasm. -

Heading to the engine room they both began the task. The minutes passed and the danger was increasing. The ship was not far enough away, although it had less and less left to be safe. The rest of the fleet had already retreated to safer positions, returning to Omega and Cassiopeia's destroyers were futilely scrambling to return with the material from their base intact. Only a couple of them were able to overtake the cargo ship, the others being destroyed along with the rest of the planets and other celestial bodies located in the radius of action of the explosion. When they only had five minutes left Copito achieved his goal and the engines of the ship increased their intensity achieving a significant improvement in speed.

-I have managed to redirect the energy that the ship had assigned in the takeoff thrusters and part of that of its shields.

- Go ahead! - Peter exclaimed euphorically. - Let's get it!

          However, Copito nuanced him with a dispassionate tint.

-The good news is that this willnot  allow you to leave the zone of influence of the wave of that supernova. The bad news is that when we reach a planet we will hardly have shields and lift to control the landing.

"We'll think about that when the time comes. - Peter declared. -

And they managed in effect to exceed the limits of the system just when the impact wave, already quite depleted, reached them. Despite no longer being able to destroy them, he managed to damage the navigation devices leaving the ship practically uncontrolled. The captain informed everyone, once recovered from the shocks they suffered when they were hit by the remains of the explosion.

-I do not know how far we can go, you know that we have to look for a habitable world that is as close as possible. - Martan  testified scrutinizing the witnesses of the screen who gave an account of the serious damage suffered.  -

"There's one here. - Copito pointed out indicating it in the galactic chart and commenting on its characteristics to all those gathered there. - Sorto Nine. Breathable atmosphere for humans. And it is located nearby only a few million kilometers away.

-We will go there to try to repair the ship and issue messages of help. - Decided by the captain -.

And since they had no choice, they all agreed to it in the hope of being rescued once they got there. For his part, Yener had departed aboard his ship, when he arrived at the border area with the Triton system, both he, and Larus who accompanied him and the rest of the crew, saw with relief return to omega's flotilla.

-Apparently they have succeeded. - Larus smiled. -

- Yes, thank goodness! - Yener sighed. -

            They also watched in perplexity as a group of Cassiopeia ships were heading towards disaster, in the opposite direction that the salvage ships were taking.

-They are crazy For Kail! - Yener exclaimed. - They should turn one hundred and eighty degrees.

-They have no chance. - The equally dumbfounded Larus agreed. -

             Although everyone looked at those guys from Cassiopeia with respect, even admiration. Of course they did not discuss the orders. At that instant, his second officer asked Yener.

- What do we do, my captain?

-We will maintain the position, we are under observation. Contact the squad. - He ordered his subordinate. -

             Other ships approached, they were cruisers of Nataclia, Ciloner and Akapler. As they had agreed, they were in the territorial limits of Cassiopeia. Yener retired to command cabin along with Larus, they took the opportunity to establish contact through a security channel with the natacliers who were calling them. Through this and on the holographic screen appeared Nerel's face.

-The operation has been a success, almost all the ships of the Confederation have managed to leave the system of the Tritons with refugees.

- Magnificent! - Yener exclaimed, who immediately wanted to know. - Almost all of them? How many are missing?

         There Nerel's gesture darkened a little and revealed to him.

A freighter named Ursus has not reported in recent sexdanes. On board travel your friends. Lieutenant Larans and Lieutenant Carrión. At the seat of omega's government they are quite worried.

              So it was, Nerel had been able to find out thanks to communications with his embassy. The natacliers, more specifically, the information service of the Nastralsi brigade, had made him participate in some communications that he intercepted from the rescue ships. In them it was commented that only that old freighter had not established communication. They also couldn't detect it. So, once aware of this, Yener ordered from his holographic communicator.

-Monitor all planets with nearby atmospheres. If they had had any mishap I guess they will have tried to get to one. - That said, he cut off communication with the bridge of his ship and asked Nerel. - Do you know if Gina has gone with them?

-From what I am aware, no. Her new roles in the legation of your planet have left her out of her destiny. - The nataclier revealed to him. -

-That's good. - Terció Larus. -

I don't think your parents think the same. As long as Peter and Kira remain missing. - Yener sighed, affirming. - We will contact the Confederacy and offer our help for a search mission.

- Shouldn't you consult with Commodore Cresat first? - His friend Larus asked him. -

-It is not necessary in this case. - Answered the questioner. -

-We will join you. We have permission from our admiralty. - Nerel seconded who added. - The same as the ships of Ciloner and Akapler. I think they're going to need us. And the Omega Confederation will be glad to have a hand in it.

Indeed, when Graham contacted the seat of the presidency, he had no choice but to inform Lora and Pierof  what had happened.

"We have lost the Ursus, we do not know where it is.

              Lora was already throwing her hands to her head in horror, although her husband immediately wanted to calm her down.

-Quiet, Graham does not mean that the shipe  has suffered any mishap or been destroyed. Simply because they haven't been able to communicate, haven't they? - He inquired wishing that it would be so. -

- That's the way it is. - Commander Stevens said. -

             Although of course, the worst was feared. That ancient ship could have succumbed to some aerolith, to the same shock wave of the supernova or even have been destroyed by those insane Cassiopeia obeying the orders of Tirelius. Therefore, even before his friend and superior told him anything about it, he offered to claim.

-The flotilla is out of danger, there are three other cruisers of ours escorting it andarriving  shortly at the space of the confederation. With your permission, Colonel, I can go with the Hummingbird to recognize some nearby systems in case that ship had taken refuge in any.

"Of course, thank you, Commander. - Replied the renowned Pierre. –

For his part, Gordon was traveling on the Cosmopolitan. He was lucky, he got the largest, most advanced and fastest ship. The first to arrive, to pick up all the refugees that their capacity allowed, and return. In addition, she was escorted by the Hummingbird and the Kangaroo. Although the boy was stunned and very restless when his father communicated with the bridge of his ship.

-Here hummingbird cruise, Cosmopolitan, we leave you. They will continue to be escorted by the Kangaroo cruiser. Fear not, everything is going well and you are very close to the Omega space. Short and close.

There was something going on. Otherwise, why would the Hummingbird withdraw from the escort? Unless, of course, it was needed elsewhere. Gordon wanted to have been able to talk to his father to ask, but he was perfectly aware that, in the scope of the mission, he was nothing but his commander and was not going to give him any kind of explanation.

-I hope to find out what happened as soon as we get to Omega. -He thought. –

Meanwhile his friends were going through a hurried trance. The freighter Ursus was finally approaching a world with a breathable atmosphere and compatible with human life, but it was very damaged and low in energy.

-The shields will barely resist the entry into that atmosphere. - The captain told them. - Hold on tight to the seats and activate the protection systems.

That wasn't too much, but at least it was better than nothing. Peter and Kira obeyed the point, as did the rest. The ship descended vertiginously towards the planet.

- Prepare for impact! - The captain shouted. –

Everyone held on as best they could, hoping that those precarious security measures would protect them. The freighter Ursus fell almost to lead towards the surface, crossing the atmosphere in a few seconds, fortunately between that and the weak shield that still remained, it prevented friction from destroying it, although it no longer had protection when impacting. Despite everything, the automatic piloting systems and retro rockets managed to raise the bow of the ship just so that the lower part took the worst blow, making it bounce until it was wedged right on the edge of a large crater. Almost the entire passage was unconscious for a few minutes. Little by little they were recovered. Kira went out under some parts of the ship, luckily she was protected under them since they had been supported by each other without touching her. Peter emerged face down, sitting with the seat he occupied on the ground.

- Huh, what does this mean? If it's a game I don't find it very fun. - Copito said, leaving in turn under some rubble. - Hey, guys! How's that going? Have nothing been broken?

- Oh! - Kira was able to moan, putting a hand to her head. - Pedrito. – The young woman called him restless for him. –

His companion, fought to get rid of the belt that anchored him to his seat and was able to do it at last to get on his feet.

"I'm fine, I only have a few bruises. - The boy replied. –

They helped a colleague who had suffered more serious blows and in a few minutes they were clearing the way. They got out of the ship. A group of crew and space police had already been organized. Being the highest ranking, Peter took command, distributing his own to help. They immediately set up a field hospital and treated the wounded, including the captain. Once they were able to meet with him and other freighter officers, the doctor presented them with the first report of the situation.

"We have had forty wounded, some of them in serious condition, and you are among those last, Captain. – He pointed out with concern. -

In effect, he wore a bandage on his head, which tried to relieve him of the blow he had suffered. Thus the doctor added halfway between anger and concern.

And if he persists in not following my advice, and I am very serious, if he does not make absolute rest, it will be impossible for me to answer for his life. – And seeing the suffering expression of his superior, he emphasized. - No, I'm not kidding, Captain. Well, I go back with the wounded, send me people to help us bury the three dead. - Concluded to walk away. –

-Three dead and forty injured, it is not much if we take into account the magnitude of the breakdown. The captain declared in a tired voice. – I confess that at the time of the fall I expected the worst. Anyway, tell me, Noral,what is the state of the engines? - You wanted to know by consulting the chief engineer. -

This, a young guy with a tanned complexion responded.

-The engine room is close to the most affected part and apparently there is so much damage that it is difficult to get an exact idea. We need three or four days to disassemble and then we'll see. The mechanism is strong, it may take fifteen or twenty days to put it in place.

"But captain, we can't go back with the ship in those conditions. - Sanders objected. –

"You're right, Lieutenant. - Admitted his superior. - It is reckless, but if we want to get out of here, we will have to take the risk. I would like to know in this regard the opinion of our distinguished navigator. - He called him, almost sarcasm. –

And it is that the alluded, was a somewhat chubby man who slept apparently oblivious to what was being treated there. However, upon hearing the question, he consulted a holo Tablet and answered.

-We don't know where we are. This system is not recorded on my maps. It does not appear in any of them, it is very strange. There is a blue giant, a red sun and a planet. We will have to triangulate and for this we will have to take references.

- And the radio, Captain? - Peter intervened. - Think that Omega or at least one of our ships has been able to capture our distress calls.

I don't think they were captured because of the disturbances of the explosion, and there is no precedent for a situation like this. – The questioner answered. -

-The repair of the radio should be attempted. - Peter advised. – I think it is the most urgent.

-Thank you for your advice, young man, but we have already thought about it. - Third Sanders without too good tone. -

-The installation is made of crumbs and we are improvising a shortwave station. But in the meantime we have to think about surviving here. – The captain declared. –

- Survive here? Hey Captain Martan, are you serious?

- And why not? - Kira intervened, affirming. – We could have fallen in a worse place. This planet is not young, and there is no active volcano. We will inspect the land, we must know its possibilities. There must be some form of life.

- And why should there be? Detectors have not recorded it. - Sanders opposed. -

Although it was clear that vegetation existed, however, everyone thought of animal life, or even intelligent. So, Copito declared.

Do not forget, young man, that, although there is no evidence of technological activity, it does not mean that there is no life. It can manifest itself in a primitive or different way. don't you think so?

"Of course," Martan agreed, pointing to the boys and Copito. - The three of you will come out of recognition. After all, it's the geologists.

Kira nodded approvingly, perceiving that the captain trusted them and their ruling.

"I'll go with them, Captain. I want to see for myself if there is animal life.

These young people are experienced, and I need you here. -He denied his superior. – There is so much to do that I sincerely confess that I do not know where to start.

- Why don't you ask me? - Inquired Copito, asserting. – I do know.

"You're right, let's see, tell me. - Martan asked him to squint at the exhaustion he suffered. –

The android did not make him repeat, and explained.

-With so many forests and the combination of azoe oxygen, there must be something that can feed us. And they are priority issues. One, survival equal to food, as far as you men are concerned, is understood. - Nuanced to continue. – Number two, form teams to disassemble and repair the damaged material. Number three, since the ship is uninhabitable you have to cut wood to build houses and also a hospital.

- An hour from here I saw that there is clay. - Kira intervened, proposing. - We can make bricks to build.

The truth is that he could realize when from the top of the mound in which the ship had become stuck, he spotted some formations of the terrain with binoculars. Luckily that would provide them with a good building material, easy to make and insulating.

-There is a river nearby, we will build a raft to bring the clay to the camp. – Copito agreed with the approval of the rest. –

So it was decided, the three of them would go to explore. Peter said goodbye to the veteran officer.

-Goodbye captain, take care of yourself, you need it. – He suggested. –

"Don't let the captain get tired, Mr. Sanders. - Kira said trying to sound cordial. –

- Do you take our little prodigy? - Martan asked, referring to Copito. –

The boys looked at each other, if he himself had told them to go with them! However, judging this as the result of the fatigue of that veteran officer, Peter responded with affability.

"The three of us are a good team, captain. You don't have to worry, we'll be back soon.

While Kira had been watching the ship. Something told him that there was a very big chance that something bad would happen. He did not hesitate to comment.

"The ship must be evacuated, Captain. And it needs to be shored up. It is in danger.

- Shore up the ship? What an idea! - Dismissed Sanders, sentencing. – All useful men are overworked. Prop it up for what. Do you want to tell me? - He inquired with a clear disdain for the recommendation of the young woman. - It is fine as it is, it is not in any danger.

Kira gave him a look of disappointment that he didn't bother to hide. That guy thought she was an inexperienced baby who was getting into men's stuff.

- The typical stellar macho! - She said she was upset. –

-Leave calm guys, we will do whatever it takes. - Third conciliatoryly the captain. –

They did that, not wanting to stop and argue with Sanders. It was not time to create friction and yes to collaborate all together if they wanted to get out of it well. So, the boys moved forward. Kira caught Peter's attention by pointing out some strange creatures that flew over them, giving the impression of being a kind of cross between exotic birds with  butterfly wings. He watched them in amazement with his binoculars.  They continued to walk for at least an hour. The blue giant star that dominated that system was warming up the atmosphere quite a bit, bathed in sweat and barely felt like continuing.

-We will rest in that shadow. – Peter proposed observing what looked like a couple of trees. –

- No, Pedrito, go back! – Kira immediately warned him with her voice taken out of fear. -

The girl felt that this was not what it seemed. Instead of trees they were terrible predators who, simulating the shape of these plant elements, thus captured the unswary prey that, like Peter, approached in search of shelter. The boy was indeed caught by long tentacles that resembled thick lianas. Kira drew her gun while urging the android.

- I copy, run, help him cut the branches, soon!

The robot did so, pulling a rotating saw out of it. Peter fell from a height of almost two meters, resented the blow, but fortunately he was unharmed in the rest. Those two beings immediately fled, using what seemed to be their roots, and in reality were their legs, to run before the astonished boy who watched him with his mouth open.

-The fauna certainly exists here. - He sighed, devoting his attention to his peers to recognize. – Thank you very much, if it were not for you I would not have told it.

-That's what we're for. - Modestly replenished Copito. –

-Let's continue. - Kira told them. –

They continued their exploration more carefully. They came now before what did look like trees with a peculiar shape, they had an opening in the middle of their trunks that was not made by any animal or accident, but gave the impression of being natural. A short distance away they glimpsed a small herd of animals, similar to a cross between anteaters and green okapi, with shapes similar to prehistoric mammals.

-They look like some Pleistocene species. - Confirmed Copito. –

They are mammals, and all mammals are edible wherever they live, because their biological chemistry is always the same. - Kira declared. -

Which was excellent news, at least they would not lack food. They continued walking and after two more hours, the blue giant was hiding on the horizon while the smaller red sun moved in a westerly direction.

-It's late, let's set up camp. - Peter said, alleging. – It would not be wise to continue.

-We go to that mound there, it will be a good observation point. - Kira proposed pointing to a nearby hill. –

So they did. They could still see remains of aeroliths crossing near that planet, some, small, ignited disintegrating at their entrance to the atmosphere. Fortunately they had nothing to fear from them. While Peter set up the tents, Kira installed a portable telescope.

"It seems to me that we are at the edge of the galaxy. - Estimated the young woman. -

- Yes, lieutenant. - Copito nodded. –

-At a great distance from all civilization. - She added that, nevertheless, she qualified. – But honestly, I'm not sure.

-Go to sleep, you are very tired, I will stay to watch. - The android was offered, claiming. – After all I am the most competent and if I want to observe cepheids, night will certainly be the best time to do so. Go.

The two young men did not beg, exhausted as they were they immediately fell asleep, trusting fully in Copito for his protection. Although something startled Kira during the dream, the girl opened her eyes with a worried gesture.

-I have to sleep. - He said to himself, trying to fall asleep, which he achieved immediately. –

Meanwhile, in space, the ship commanded by Yener was leading the search for the Quadruple Alliance squadron. In order to coordinate efforts, the nataclier sent Nerel as a liaison, he was transported to the cruiser yumlaincer, after the formal greetings of rigor, and accompanied by Larus, they went to the captain's office.

-It has been a detail on your part to allow me to be here. - His grateful friend told Yener. –

I know that with all this hustle and bustle you have seen Little Nerel lately. - The questioner answered. -

True to the character of the natacliers, Nerel did not comment on this issue related to his private life and did take the floor to comment with a slight touch of irony.

"Let me tell you that you are moving in dangerous waters, Captain Rant.

"I don't know what you mean. - He answered sincerely this one. –

-That already supposed. - Nodded his contertulio to be more precise. – Some believe that you are taking your friendship with those Omega patrolmen too far.

We are helping a Confederation of allied planets on a humanitarian mission. - Yener declared. – There are thousands of lives involved.

-And coincidentally those of two of your friends, too. - Nerel said, adding with greater familiarity - You care very little about the rest of the disappeared.

I care about fulfilling our duties as allies. - Replied an annoying Yener. –

To all that Larus watched uncomfortably to one and the other without daring to intervene, nor did he know what to say. She didn't think her friend was insensitive to the drama of so many lives in danger, though she knew her boyfriend didn't tend to ramble without arguments to back up what he said. It was therefore something complicated, he chose to stay out of that discussion and listen. Nerel then said more conciliatoryly.

"I'm not trying to insult you or call you insensitive, I know that those on your planet are anything but that. But your way of acting is  too  predictable.

-And according to your great wisdom, how should I act so as not to be so predictable? - Yener wanted to know, and he was the one who used irony on this occasion. –

His interlocutor kept a few moments of silence and after walking a few steps he replied.

-To begin with, not getting directly involved in these tasks. Even if you are no longer the ambassador of your world, you still hold a very high rank, after Cresat you are the second in command here as far as Yumlaiance is concerned.

-You seem to forget a small detail. - Yener smiled maliciously. -

         And before the interrogating gazes of Nerel and Larus, his contertulio added

Peter Larans is the son of Colonel Pierre Larans, commander-in-chief of Omega's space police, and is also the son of Lora Dair, the president of the Confederation council. I believe that the fact that the second-in-command of the yumlaincer legation is personally concerned about going after him has positive consequences for our diplomatic relations.

- Yes. - Asety conceded. - If we look at it from that point of view.

- Sure. - Larus then intervened. - And now we must concentrate on finding those disappeared.

          That was certainly the most important thing. Although there was no vestige of that ship. No radio or sub-space transmissions had been detected and that greatly complicated the location of that spacecraft.

- Hopefully they have ended up on some habitable planet! - It was said Yener. -

           And his friends, in fact, had that luck, although things were not exactly proving easy for them, despite the invaluable help of Copito, who freed them from standing guard during the night. That way they were able to sleep without setbacks and the next morning they continued their walk. Kira took some geological samples to estimate the mineral deposits in the ground, while Peter saw something that caught his attention.

- Gee! - Said the boy who ran to where his companion was to tell him. - Here we have the proof of a principle of civilization, look.

            And he showed him a rough arrowhead made of stone. Copito in turn approached to comment.

-I have discovered a resinous matter secreted by these trees, which, treated in heat, could become an extremely useful product.

             Soon they continued to see a kind of arachnid-shaped figure, with eight legs and a head that rose at least three meters from the ground. Although he gave the impression of possessing intelligence, he did not approach them either.

-It looks like a spider-man. - Said the astonished Kira. -

- Couldn't he be the one who carved the stones? - Peter asked. -

-I do not think so, the shape of its legs does not allow the apprehension of the stones. - Replied his interlocutor. -

- What a strange planet!, and also its inhabitants. - A also dumbfounded Peter declared watching that incredible being move away. -

          Although Copito immediately intervened to declare with a tone somewhat tinged with reproach.

You humans only want to consider the beings who look like you. Both inside and outside your usual environment you believe that life is reduced to a few hundred million years, and that it is none other than the one you know. Have you not heard of the Stegosaurus, the Dimetrodonnte, the Ptheterodactyl, and so many other animals such as the Iranian-speaking T, for example?

            The two young men chose not to respond to that. Possibly his android friend was right. Nor did they feel like polemicizing on issues that in their circumstances were trivial to them. They had a lot to do and they want to return to the Ursus, which they did. After orienting himself and walking for a while Peter indicated, pointing east.

-We will go there.

-No, Pedrito, no! - Kira replied. -

- What happens? - He wanted to know. -

-I am receiving a message, I am warned of a danger. - The girl revealed to him. -

           Peter watched her blankly. A message? whose? The radio connection with the Ursus did not work and none of his companions had communicated.

- A danger? Which one? - Inquired the perplexed boy. -

-Evil, horrible beings. - She answered. -

            A few seconds later, as if something wanted to prove Kira right, they heard roars coming from inside a grove. To the horror of the boys, a large group of ape-like beings with huge tusks and greenish color emerged from among the trees. They did not hesitate to run to escape.

-This gets interesting. - Copito said. -

         They could barely hide behind some rocks, these beings were fast and went towards them with not very good intentions. Peter drew his gun and said before firing.

-After all, legitimate defense.

          He disintegrated three of them quickly, while Kira made use of his paralyzer against two others. That made others give up.

- See? They abandon the fight. - Peter said. -

"Don't get your hopes up, they're going to come back. - Kira sentenced. -

         And so they did, although now in a much slower and even more reflective way, without putting themselves within reach of the boys' weapons. Meanwhile, on the Ursus, work continued and the captain's condition worsened. He was bedridden with quite a fever. Sanders was in front and remained undaunted when from a nearby transmitter, he heard Peter report.

-We are being attacked by great apes, we make use of weapons. Be forewarned, you are very fierce. Short.

       He barely had time to say more, without anyone having noticed a large group of those animals, some even carrying large stones, had surrounded them.

"There they come, fire! - Ordered Peter. -

          One of them managed to get so close that he snatched Kira's gun from her, to throw himself at her.

- Help!, Pedrito help me! - She exclaimed. -

The boy tried, but had to disintegrate two others first. Unfortunately, another gave him a blow that opened several wounds like long stripes that were immediately stained with his blood, leaving his uniform shattered. Copito took over by disintegrating a few more of those monsters. However, they gave the impression of never ending and the young people believed theyreached  their last moment. The beast holding Kira let go of her when she saw Peter who could only try to pull away by crawling on the ground. Luckily the girl was able to recover her paralyzer and shoot that being. Suddenly, something caught the boys' attention. A kind of mob of small black humanoid  beings, armed with primitive spears and bows and arrows attacked those huge apes.  So fierce was their attack that even those fearsome monsters retreated, but not before suffering a few casualties and inflicting as many on their enemies. The boys watched in admiration of that. At last, once the adversary had fled, one of those beings barely one meter high, large head in proportion to his body and large bulging eyes, who was hanging a kind of golden amulet, approached them. Peter pointed his gun at him, although Kira was quick to stop him explaining.

- No, Peter, they help us! The little ones come to help us.

          And to the young man's amazement, she translated what appeared to be a telepathic conversation with that being.

-He says that the people of the Taks, have just obtained thanks to us, their first victory over the fierce Zobuz. And that is why we can always count on your help. - The girl commented with a relieved tone, to add. - I thanked him and told him that, for our part, we too...

          Kira stopped when the echo of a tremor startled everyone, they were already close to the Ursus and it was precisely the sound that it produced when sliding down the slope of the crater in which it had been stranded in an unstable balance. Now it would be impossible to get her out of there. The boys said goodbye to their new allies and ran to the camp and were devastated to see that. After a while to cool off, eat something and heal their wounds they could see the captain who seemed to be somewhat better, despite the fact that he sweated copiously and continued with a fever.  It was precisely this who said in the wake of the fall of the Ursus.

Fortunately and thanks to his warning, the men had abandoned the ship. Now, unless we receive unlikely relief we will have to resign ourselves to living here for the rest of our days. To see geologists, what have they discovered? - He asked them with visible interest. -

-The soil is largely cultivable, there are mammalian animals in principle edible, I think it is possible to domesticate them, they are not fierce. We have found refractory clay with which we can make bricks to build. Now we need to find soda and silica to make crystal. I think I know where there is. It will be necessary to do a survey, take samples and analyze them. - Kira explained to them. -

"Very well," the captain agreed, addressing the other officer. - Now, Lieutenant Peter. Give us your report. -

        And the young man took the floor to comment.

-I want to tell you about two species in an upright position, the Zobuz, terrible carnivores, against which it is necessary to protect ourselves and the little Taks, a kind of primitive humanoids more friendly. The problem is communicating with them. Those strange beings are telepathic. - The boy concluded. -

-Upon receiving your message we bet sentinels around the entire camp, and now we are enshing it. - the captain told them. -

-Which concerns us many men that we need for other things. - Sanders intervened in a tone of protest, adding with disdain. - And all because of those scary tales about the Zobuz and the telepathics.

        That outraged Peter who confronted him with that presumptuous one to snap at him.

- So you tell, huh? I would like you to come face to face with one of those stories.

         The two crossed looks of defiance, until the captain intervened.

-Come on gentlemen, try not to lose your temper. And don't forget that I'm the one in charge here, understood Sanders?

         He immediately walked away nodding to his captain's request. For his part, the exhausted Martan then went to Copito.

- What does our little prodigy have to tell us?

-General situation, taking as reference the Cepheids, we are in one of the outer arms of the galaxy. On a satellite planet a red sun that in turn gravitates around the blue giant. The explanation is that after having formed its satellite the red sun has been attracted...

          And once again he was abstracted in an endless rant until Kira, already tired, asked him.

- Oh, please, Copito!

"Well, well, ignorant backwards. - Replenished this one to complete. - I have to add that this planet will not retain its current conditions of survival for a long time.

           Everyone looked at each other really worried. That was serious!

- What? - Peter exclaimed among the murmurs of the rest. -

          Although Copito did not take long to add.

-Only about eight hundred thousand years.

         The rest moved their heads, although the android was not finished and anticipated them.

-Winter will be hard. In addition to the protection of the houses, we will have to make coats. By crushing waste of natural fibers and drying them in the sun we will make fabrics, but we need spinning mills and looms, a water mill and a belt to start them. I have discovered resins with rubber properties, we can use them to make footwear. Later, we will manufacture light with the help of mills and dams and then fuel and furniture. And we will build a solar furnace to melt metals and make the tools we need. There are, yes, metals in that direction. - Indicated facing north. - I am sure and in considerable quantity...

-Thank you friend, thank you, you are a really precious element. - The captain praised him. -

"Let me finish," asked the android in a tired voice. - First of all, we will repair the radio to be able to guide our possible saviors.

-Our improvised station will not be able to reach beyond the ionosphere. - Sanders objected -

- Oh! They are irritating me. - Replied Copito, to ask. - Do you want to stop interrupting me at once? You will have to place the issuer higher simply.

- Above? - Third Sanders. -

-Yes, very well, you are right. - Granted by the captain who added. - But for this you would have to put a satellite into orbit and how?

-Listen captain, a small ship is made for the emitter and launched into space, elemental. - Copito replied ufanamente. –

That was something feasible and they set out for it. Perhaps in this way some ship that passed by would be able to locate them. In turn, on the yumlaincer cruiser Dureor, Yener felt something.  He was shortly after concluding his conversation with Nerel and Larus. The nataclier had been chatting for a while with his partner, Yener left them a few minutes of privacy in his office and when he left he felt something similar to a cry for help. He could barely mutter.

Kira...

Something bad was happening to his friends, he could feel that they were alive, but in grave danger. Luckily that feeling subsided. He did not hesitate to go to the command bridge and order a change of course. That surprised even himself, it was as if stellar coordinates had appeared in his head.

- Are you sure, sir? - Inquired a major who was in charge of the post. –

Yener just nodded. His subordinate in turn ordered an attractive young blonde ensign, with green eyes and a rather inciting look.

-Delaier, vary to these coordinates.

-Yes, sir. - She responded by giving Yener a look full of interest. -

Although now the boy was not for those things, and he just got out of there. He didn't understand how, but it was as if Kira had conveyed to him where they were. So, he would go in search of his friends.

-Contact the Omega ships, send them these coordinates. - He ordered another of his officers. – Then let our allies know and ask them to follow us.

Meanwhile, Nerel and Larus had not been wasting their time. As soon as Yener left, no words crossed, Larus hugged his partner and began to kiss him, Nerel returned the kindness and his lover soon shed her uniform.

- Here? - Nerel gasped in his partner's ear. –

-And now. - He replied this full of desire...

- What if Captain Rant returns? - The nataclier smiled...

-That will make it more exciting. – Larus affirmed. -

And the yumlaincer bent down to properly stimulate his lover, once he freed his private areas of the clothes they wore. Soon Nerel joined behind his partner and both gave free rein to their desires. Fortunately they finished shortly, they didn't have too much time and were already getting dressed again when the nataclier received a call from his ship.

"Listen, Lieutenant Asety. – He was claimed by one of his superiors. - Can you answer?

-Yes, sir. - He answered in effect, with a measured tone. –

Larus admired the coldness of the natacliers, at least to react in situations like that. He was still panting and trembling from the heat of the moment. However, there was her boyfriend, talking as if he had been doing nothing. The fact is that, because of his position as a member of the nataclier secret service, Nerel placed a neuro transmitter to be the one who could only receive that message, and to the astonishment of his partner, he even exhibited an expression of bewilderment when saying.

"No, my commander. I have no idea why. I'll try to find out. Yes, sir. It won't take long.

Cutting off communication, Larus smiled commenting.

"I guess you won't be able to share that message with me.

-Well, for this time you suppose badly. - Nerel declared, revealing him to his partner to Larus' surprise. – Why do you think Yener has changed course? My superior has called me to tell me that this cruise ship has requested that they follow a demarcation of the galaxy that is unknown to us.

-I have no idea. - Admitted his contertulio. –

And just then, Yener walked into the room, surprising the two young men when he made a serious gesture to them.

-We have to talk...

On that lost planet, Peter and Kira slept for a few hours. The next day, already recovered, they left once again to explore the surroundings of the camp. This time it was the two alone. They walked along the course of a small river as Kira commented.

Copito believes that there are metals in that direction.

"Too bad he doesn't come with us. – His companion replied. –

-It will be much more useful in the camp. Copito is a real boss. - She said. –

"The state of the captain worries me. – Peter declared more seriously. –

Yes, and so do I, I fear for him, and I don't like that Sanders or his strange attitude. – The girl agreed. –

He still remembered the ship incident. She warned him with her best will and that guy completely despised her, and on top of that she did not even deign to apologize when, unfortunately, Kira's worst forecasts were fulfilled and the ship fell into the ravine.

-With that kind of people you can't reason. - She said to herself, still upset. -

They continued with their advance, a few minutes later they heard a rumble, and looking at the sky they saw how something was rising.

- Look! – Pedrito indicated pointing to the top. –

- The radioship! - exclaimed euphoricly Kira. - They have succeeded!

And more animated they dedicated themselves to beating the contours in search of minerals and other valuable elements, time passed quickly and almost without realizing it darkened. In the shelter of a cave they made a fire about to rest. It was Peter who solicitously offered himself.

- Do you want me to do the first guard?

"No, no." – She declined. – Go to rest, I am sure there is no danger.

The boy accepted delightedly, he trusted fully in the gift of his companion to foresee such circumstances. In fact, their allies, the Taks,veiled their dream by protecting them in the shadows. The next morning, after having some campaign rations for breakfast, Peter proposed, pointing in lontananza.

-Let's see what is behind those mountains.

- Yes. – His companion agreed. –

After laboriously climbing a hill, they discovered this creature with an arboreal appearance and Kira allowed herself to joke, offering her friend.

- Don't want to rest in the shade?

"No. – He smiled. –

And the two stayed a good distance from that dangerous creature. Although the boy spotted another strange crab-like being approaching there.

-Wait. - Asked Kira. –

That crab approached confidently, believing without a doubt that this was a tree to feed on, as soon as he grabbed one of those tentacles with a clamp of his the other palps of that being closed on him squeezing him mercilessly. It was of no use to him to cut a couple of them before being crushed.

- Let's get out of here! - The young woman said, disgusted to see that. –

They moved away continuing their expedition, checking herbs in the area and also doing some prospecting. Kira testified.

-Copito was wrong, there is no indication that there are metals.

-They may be further away. - Elucubró Peter. "There, no doubt, on the other side of those hills. - Indicated the boy who confessed. - I have a cerval fear of meeting those satanic fierce apes again.

I am convinced that there is no danger. - He was reassured by a smiling Kira. "Otherwise they would tell me.

Peter watched her puzzled. Who could his companion refer to when he spoke like this? In this case it could well be the Taks,but on other  occasions with whom did he communicate? Of course, I had known her for some years now and for that kind of thing it was as mysterious as the first day. Anyway, his hunches or gifts or whatever he wanted to call them, had never failed him. He chose to joke in turn, acceptingthat.

- Ah! they would tell you, very well.

Soon they sat on a rock to rest and eat something. Kira pointed to her partner.

"Look, the Taksarecoming.

Sure enough, a small group of these small, blackish beings approached, walking slowly towards them. At the front they cametheir leader.

-The boss wants to put us on guard, he says that near us are evil beings.

- The horrible greenish monkeys? - Peter inquired. -

-Nope. - His companion told him surprising him by clarifying.  - A species similar to us.

- A species similar to us? How did you find out? - Peter wanted to know. -

-Your soldiers have transmitted it to you. - Kira told him. -

- How, by radio or by phone? - He asked not without some disbelief and even scorn. -

-By telepathy. - She revealed to him that she testified playing the leader of the Taks. - It says that they are in permanent communication. He is amazed that we have to make noises to speak!, he says that this way it is not possible to know the feelings of others, and he is right.

- Yes, definitely. - Peter conceded which in turn asked with interest. - Can it lead us to those beings?

-They will guide us, come on. - Kira told him. -

           So they followed that small group of Taks that they cut through the forest, then they took them to a ravine from which they had a good panoramic view of a valley that was below. To the amazement of both, there perched, was a model of Cassiopeia's murena ship. Peter used his binoculars and watched as a detachment of soldiers came out of it, surely ready to recognize the place. He also watched a patrol shoot down a peacefully walking Taks.

-Look pedrito. - Kira confirmed to him in the meantime. - A ship of Cassiopeia.

-Those are the metals that Copito had detected. - Peter reasoned. -

-One of the expeditions goes to the camp, we have to put ours on guard immediately. - The girl replied. -

-The radio. - Said his companion. -

-No, do not use the radio. They could catch us. - She warned him, urging him. - We have to get to the camp before them, come on.

          One of the Taks communicated something to Kira who immediately shared it with his partner.

-It says to use the river, it is a fast current. - He informed Peter, pointing to a nearby watercourse. -

- But how? It takes time to build a raft. - The boy objected. -

- Do you forget that we have allies? - He was almost reproached by his interlocutor to indicate. - Go ahead.

            Said and done, the Taks had already built a raft quickly and efficiently, tying up several thick logs. The boys approached her without wasting a second. Their allies offered them two sticks to control this very basic vessel that they immediately took and set off together with the head of the Taks. Soon they reached a waterfall from which they prudently deviated by taking a small branch near the river. Two more Taks appeared almost out of nowhere helping them dock the raft on the shore. Indeed, thanks to that shortcut they had gained time. Kira pointed to her companion, pointing to a gorge high on the other bank where Cassiopeia's patrol could be seen in the distance.

"We have left them behind, look at them there.

       Peter used his binoculars once again to count.

- Twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six. They are twenty-six men and they look well armed. - Estimated. -

-Hurry come. - He was rushed by Kira. -

         But when they least expected it, several Zobuz appeared and attacked them.

- Beware! - Kira warned. -

            Luckily, she was quick using her paralyzer before two of them pounced on Peter. The boy quickly disintegrated three more.

-The only thing we were missing. - Peter sighed. -

            Just at that moment the Taks attacked their inveterate enemies. The head of those little beings watched the two boys.

"He says let's go, he and his people will stop the Zobuz. And they're going to do what they can to force them to back down. - Telepathically translated Kira. -

            The girl gratefully stroked the shoulder of the chief, muttered a thank you and both she and Peter hurried to run to their camp, which was already very close, while those small and courageous Taks covered them facing the Zobuz. When they arrived, they were greeted by Sanders who told them.

"Whatever you wish to deal with, do it with me.

"No, no and no." - Peter refused, insisting. - We need to see the captain. -

              Sanders smiled avidly and accompanied the two boys to the field hospital that had been improvised in a tent. There to their dismay, Peter and Kira saw the captain in a bed, fast asleep.

-That, are they already happy? Sanders asked sarcastically. -

-I repeat that we can not lose an instant, in two hours at most they will be here. You have to build fences, bet men, arrange weapons. - Petersaid, surprised to add. - I don't understand, Lieutenant, it seems that you don't want to help.

"I think Lieutenant, it would be better if we talked to them. -His interlocutor opposed. -

Mr Sanders, have you not yet understood that you have to be in a position of strength to dialogue with the people of Cassiopeia? - Kira intervened. -

            And it's not that she liked to act like that, but in these circumstances there was no choice. However, his contertulio closed stubbornly by replying.

"We are not in a position to fight, we hardly have weapons and many of our men are wounded or sick.

-Our luck will be dramatic if we fall into the hands of Cassiopeia. - Kira warned him. -

Listen to me, it is better to be alive with those of Cassiopeia than to become dead heroes. - Sanders, who asked for the support of his peers when he asked them. - Right, guys?

            These echoed the words of their first officer nodding. However, Peter also had the support of his colleagues in the space police.

"Listen lieutenant, I order you to organize the resistance. - Terció Peter, fed up with this opposition. -

"You can't order anything from me, I'm the one in charge here, not you, understood?"  insurrection in front of a superior. - Sanders declared. - Stop those two, soon.

             And he pointed Peter and Kira to his men, but the boy did not sit still and attacked Sanders with a punch, he responded and they got into a fight. The other pro-Sanders crew wanted to intervene, but Kira pointed his paralyzer at them, which dissuaded them from doing so. The fight was short-lived, with his martial arts techniques and training, Peter managed to block his opponent's blows and give him a kick and a blow with the singing of the hand on his neck that hit him on the ground, leaving him barely conscious.

"You are arrested, Lieutenant Sanders. - Peter told him when he was recovering -

Do not allow that young man to impose his law, stop him immediately. - He replied to the questioner addressing his own. -

          Then copito arrived who had not heard anything, so much so that he asked.

- What, have you already discovered the important metal deposits that I have detected?

          Although seeing what was going on, full of strangeness he wanted to know.

- But hey, can you know what happens?

           No one had a chance to answer your question. It was the voice of Commander Stevens that took the floor through the Hummingbird's public address system.

-Health to all, I am glad to meet you at last. - The commander declared. - An orbiting transport ship sends you life-saving capsules. Get ready to embark. I repeat, an orbiting transport ship sends you life-saving capsules.

              Revelry erupted among the castaways, greeting their rescuers. Luckily the nightmare was over. Although Peter had not forgotten Sanders and ordered two police officers

-Llévenselo.

            They did so while the rescue capsules were landing. Rather they were ships of embarkation to which they were accessed by order. From the stratosphere, Yener watched this with satisfaction.

"I still don't know how you were able to locate them. - He was told by a stunned Larus, who was next to him on the bridge. -

"Someone chivó me. - His friend smiled. -

          Both Larus and Nerel were puzzled when Yener entered the office and gave them instructions.

"We will go to this sector of the galaxy, I know they are there. I have ordered the Quadruple rescue squadron to head there and report to Omega's ships.

"And I guess I won't be able to ask where you got that information. - Nerel commented. -

-You guess well. - Yener smiled. -

-In such a case, I must return to my ship immediately. I will be asked for a report of the situation. - Declared the nataclier. -

-It's most likely, yes. - He agreed on his contertulio. -

            So Nerel was transported back to the nataclier cruiser he was on. Yener in turn contacted Commander Stevens.

"Yes, I'm sure your lost ship is in that area of the galaxy, let's go investigate it. Of course I don't mind them joining us. On the contrary, that is why I have called you, commander. - The young yumlaincer concluded. - No, there is no what, it is a pleasure and an honor.

          And towards that demarcation they went, they barely took a few hours to arrive. It did not bring them account to go into inter-dimensional space since the site could have many asteroids or planets unregered and the risk of returning to ordinary space and running into one was great. Anyway, as they approached they detected radio signals, emitting distress keys on many frequencies.

-There they are. - Yener said, to the amazement of his officers on the command bridge. -

- Are we going to rescue them? - He was asked by his deputy, a commander named Seriad. -

-Let's leave that to those of Omega. - Yener told him. -

            Theysoon received another transmission, and this one came from a cassiopeia ship. In that case, he did decide to go find them. When Larus privately asked him why, his friend explained.

-We have to maintain good relations with Omega, that is already achieved, we have guided them to theirs and they will be able to rescue them without problems. But we also have to be on good terms with Cassiopeia. General Tirelius is sure to appreciate this gesture.

       And he himself disembarked on a shuttle to meet with the captain of Cassiopeia's ship as soon as they contacted by radio. He received him in a very cordial manner, improvising a group of guards who presented weapons to their distinguished visitor.

-It is an honor to receive the former ambassador of Yumlaiance. And fellow captain. - Declared that guy. -

As friends of Cassiopeia, we are glad we found them safe. - Yener replied. -

-We have lost a few men when we sent some patrols to go around the perimeter. There are some huge green monsters that attacked us. But we disintegrated many before they fled. - Le reported his contertulio. -

- How many endowment do you have? - Yener wanted to know. -

-We are about five hundred between crew and controls. - He answered his contertulio. -

-We offer to pick you up and distribute you between my ship and those of the Quadruple Alliance that accompany me. We have contacted the admiralty of your world to inform them of the position we are in, so that they can recover the ship.

-We appreciate it. - That captain nodded, yes, nuancing. - But if the help of our planet comes soon, we prefer to stay here, guarding the ship.

Yener could perceive that this recognition was sincere. Those guys had had a much worse time than their commanding officer had commented.

-Whatever you prefer, captain. I offer you our help in everything you need, energy, protection against any hostile creature of this world, whatever is necessary.

-I thank you andI assure you that I willpersonally inform you of your kindness. Cassiopeia will not forget this gesture. - He asserted his contertulio.  –

-Thank Omega, it was they who did not give data on their position. - Yener lied. -

Those words wereconveyed and the thanks  endorsedby Tirelius himself in person, who took care to call Cresat once he was informed of what had happened.

-Yes, ambassador. We don't forget our friends. You'll see. Cassiopeia knows how to be grateful to those who have given her their support.

"You honor us with your words, General. Cresat replied affably, who, already warned by Yener, added. – But not all the credit was ours.

"You are very modest, but yes, you are right. I admit that the Confederacy helped rescue our men and the lost ship. - Had to recognize Tirelius. –

And after expressing more good wishes the leader of Cassiopeia concluded the communication. His faithful Consul was nearby and asked him.

- What will we do now?

- The situation has changed. At least for now. - His interlocutor replied arlovably. – In the eyes of our friends of the Quadruple Alliance we would be bad if we did not show some kind of gesture of goodwill towards the Confederation. But we can't give in either. – He finished off quite exasperated by that dilemma. –

Luckily, his contertulio Nabot  remembered.

-We still have some of their light ships. Those patrol cars we captured. They are nothing more than insignificant pots. We could return them to him and thus have a gesture of generosity that does not commit us to anything.

That brought out a smile in Tirelius who immediately nodded.

-You've had a great idea. It is certainly an obvious gesture of good faith that does not harm us at all. We can buy time and divert attention from what really interests us. So let their guard down. So, from now on, the end of the cold war, no bad gestures with Omega. Understood?

"Yes, boss, of course. - He hastened to agree his subordinate. –

And it is that things in the Senate had become ugly, those of the opposition, of course led by Senator Nerus, did not lose a moment to reproach him for his criminal carelessness, as the leader of the progressives described, to his lack of knowledge about the condition of Kohler's sun. Even some support he used to have in the traditionalists had wavered after that and the consequent loss of that fabulous base. This, together with the report on the heavy cruisers that Omega was building, without being sure if they received assistance from the worlds of the Quadruple Alliance, had made Tirelius very seriously concerned. At least, his alliance with those mysterious friends as he called them remained unchanged.

Now more than ever they are necessary for me to maintain the balance of forces. – The general said to himself. – Despite the good wishes of the Yumlaincer and their friends I cannot be sure which side they would be on if war broke out between us and the Confederacy.

Most likely, they would remain neutral, but better not take unnecessary risks and the hidden allies he had obtained were the guarantee he needed to achieve his purpose.

"Although some senators are starting to get impatient, they want to know who they are, but the time has not yet come."

Completely oblivious to this, both Gordon and Gina reunited after omega's arrival. The girl immediately ran to meet him and asked.

- Do you know anything about my brother and Kira?

- No, I'm sorry. "The young man admitted. –

Shortly after he heard his father announce that the Hummingbird was leaving the Cosmopolitan's escort, he began to investigate. Apparently one of the ships had been lost. A little before arriving at Omega he discovered with concern that it was the Ursus, where his friends traveled. He guessed that his father would have gone to look for them.

"They will be fine, they know how to cope," he said then trying to alleviate his restlessness.

Now he repeated the same thing to a very worried Gina, gently taking her from both sides at the height of the girl's shoulders.

-Calm, they have come out of much worse situations. I bet my dad will be bringing them back.

The girl wanted to nod, although she couldn't help but shed a few tears of fear and anxiety. Gordon immediately hugged her.

-Don't worry, you'll see. They're going to be fine. - Le repeated. –

The girl separated a little from that hug and watched gratefully, Gordon could not help it, seeing her so vulnerable and with that expression that far from diminishing her beauty enhanced her before her eyes she brought her lips closer to hers kissing them gently. Soon she withdrew somewhat red, fearing perhaps a look of reproach from her interlocutor, however, she smiled.

- Thank you. - Musitó Gina. –

This time, far from being violent, he took that gesture for a demonstration of sincere affection, which was just what he needed at that moment.

-Fear not, everything will be fine, I'm sure. - He insisted to settle that. -

And he accompanied the girl to her lodging where he let her rest. Fortunately,  within a few hours his assumption was supported by the facts. To his great joy and that of Gina, the transmission that came from the Hummingbird affirmed it. Both he and Peter's sister prepared to go to the star port to receive their friends.

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