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**A brilliant promotion.**

Luckily for everyone Gordon seemed to control himself when he got to where they were both, it was Gina who anticipated him to talk when he saw him. Preventing him, knowingly or not, from being the first to utter a word.

- Where had you gotten in?  I was waiting for you for over an hour. - He scoached him for something annoying. -

- Forgive me - he could say that he now gave the impression of being ashamed. - I tried to call you for the communicator, but he didn'tcatch you. Although I see that you have not been bored. - He added now with a marked sarcasm re-focusing on the type that. -

- I met Yener by chance as he waited for you. He was very kind in inviting me. - Gina replied without wanting to accuse that tone. -We were chatting about our respective planets –

He gave a kind of surreptitious nod to Gordon that he did not catch. Kira on the other hand did realize this and intervened when she approached them.

- I think the best thing is for us to sit at another table Don't you think so, Peter?

- Yes of course- he was quick to agree to this one by placing a hand on his partner in a conciliatory gesture. -Come on Gordon, friend. Do you want to join us? - He also asked Yener and his own sister with the intention of defusing the atmosphere. We'll all be able to chat a little bit.

What I really thought was that Gordon will surely be calmer if those two weren't still at a separate table. He then received kira's approving assent.

- I'll be happy to do it- it was the smiling response of the yumlaincer who kept looking at Gordon, he even seemed to smile at seeing him so angry. -

Éste seemed to put up with his discomfort barely. Of course, his senses of kail were not necessary for Yener to realize the growing animosity he was awakening in that individual.

-Better not to tempt luck. - He reflected on yumlaincer. -

            Of course, if it had been his private life, and this happened in some tavern in Dumlans or Holmrad would not have worried him if that guy wanted to fight or accused him of wanting to steal from the bride, (or in the case of that pazguato, whatever that girl was for him), Yener was more than capable of defending himself from that fauna of bluster or patibulary rabble that used to poke his noses out there. Although Gordon's burly appearance and stature coupled with his own, completed with his more than competent military training, would surely make him a more than worthy opponent.

But this is quite different, it is not a question of who would win a fight but of not starting it. I am in your world and on a diplomatic mission. - It was remembered again. - It would be better to be cautious.

             So, he gladly accepted and the five sat around a more spacious table and asked. Despite the apparent calm and courtesy exchanges, there was a game of exchange of glances between Gordon, Gina and Yener that didn't seem to bode well. Although Peter was merely observing, seemingly oblivious to it, Kira did feel that the tension was reaching more than commendable levels.

-It seems that the yumlaincer is making an effort to control his character. The same as Gordon, although he fears more the reaction of Gina and Yener's is more the result of a strategy. He knows it doesn't suit him in any way. - I perceived telepathic. -

          To all that, the conversation was about to resume when a Yumlaiance officer appeared who, after squaring, greeted Yener militarily declaring in his native language.

- Sorry to bother you, sir, but your presence is required from Commodious Cresat.

- Very well, right now I'm going, lieutenant - I replenish the questioned, upset by having to leave that meeting, but managing to avoid that being hinted at in his always smiling factions. - I'm sorry, but I must leave you, higher orders. I have been requested by my commander-in-chief.

"We fully understand," replied Peter amicably. - We are also official.

- Don't be entertained by us, please, you could be late. - Gordon added with obvious glee and derision. -

Ignoring the comment Yener politely greeted Kira and did the same with a slight inclination to Gina whom he gently kissed on the hand, re-thinking in doing so to the astonishment of his contertulios and gordon's ill-contained irritation. He then went after his subordinate.

- That guy is a creed and an arrogant! - Gordon could say with indignation. - How did you let yourself be convinced by him to come here? - He reprimanded the blonde girl. -

Before she, to whom that tone didn't sit well at all, could speak, Kira intervened with her usual soft tone.

- Look At Gordon, the President of the Council gave orders to find out as much as possible about Yener and her superiors. It is vitally important for negotiations with your world. I'm sure Gina has been trying to snout him. Isn't it?

Somewhat surprised at the intuition that her friend had once again displayed, she gave a slight nod with her head. Fortunately it could avoid an argument.

- That's right. - Corroborated the girl with a muted tone and even tinged with discomfort. - We thought that, if it was impossible to get more data by telepathic polls, perhaps with a friendly talk it would be achieved. - He sentenced in a soft voice, but with an offended look at Gordon. -

- Sorry, forgive me - sighed this one when he realized this last detail suddenly feeling like an idiot. - If you were following orders... And I'm very sorry to have delayed, but neither the ship, nor my transmitter worked, I know it's ridiculous!, but I give you my word that...

- Nothing happens. - Now Gina smiled out reaching out her hand to cut off that torrent of apologies. - I understand that.

It was clear that the boy felt bad about his hasty judgment and she was thoroughly flattered by that reaction, although she preferred that he not be so obvious. Gordon was a good boy, but he lacked the charm of knowing how to keep his cards.

That is why I have reacted badly. You know how I am, I immediately get irritad when things don't go the way they should. And surely that guy has nothing to do with it. But I can't help it, I don't trust it. - Commented the still rushed Gordon. -

- Friend- terr Peter too, with conciliatory intent. - You should not get carried away by your emotions. I don't quite trust that yumlaincer either, as I imagine he won't do of us. But this is like a game of chess, you have to know their tactics and what chips they have.

Anyway, your reaction has been natural and spontaneous, that's the best thing that could have happened. - Kira intervened, adding. - He also possesses telepathic skills and will have grasped that your discomfort was genuine. That's why it was so much better that you didn't know that everything was ready. - Riveted by throwing another hood at Gina. -

            Gordon looked back at his blonde companion feeling like an idiot. He barely sketched a slight smile to take a hand to the cogote and comment more relaxed.

-Yes, the fact is that I am a brute and that has gotten me into trouble on many occasions, I am glad that for this time that gave us an advantage and has served to deceive that guy.

-It never hurts to have some advantage. - Peter stated adding with a thoughtful tone. - In view of the power that these yumlaincers seem to have in terms of combat ships. They must have a few.

"Well, given his advance I think of many," Gordon replied now, despite everything in a more relaxed tone. - I have seen some of them and I must admit that they are impressive. They give the impression of being much more powerful than our cruisers and even more than the Nautilus-class Cassiopeia star destroyers.

- Yes, and despite my efforts to penetrate his mind, that Yener is almost impregnable to me. - Kira intervened, asserting. - I think he just lets me get as far as he wants, he seems to possess a kind of psychic barrier that protects him from my attempts at probing.

- It is one of his disciplines, it is called psychic defense. He studies it in his monastery, - Gina explained to them like a spring. -

          The others looked at each other perplexed, then their eyes on the shy blonde and her own brother broke those moments of silence. Commenting with glee.

- Our mother wasn't wrong. From what I see my sister's tactic seems to be more effective than telepathy, ha, ha!

-Sometimes a simple cordial conversation gets very good results. - Timidly musitó Gina. -

-Anda dinos. What else have you found out? - Peter became interested, focusing on listening to her like the others. -

- Well- the girl recovered somewhat fearfully. - We've talked about a lot of things, where we were born, we grew up. Of our worlds - the others seemed to make her feel with their eyes that that didn't interest them too much until she added. - He told me that, in his world, the military tradition has been very important for centuries. They have a powerful army and a large combat fleet, and they are not alone. There are at least three more worlds in your alliance with a level similar to yours.

Yes, we already knew that. - Peter intervened. -

-Although you better confirm it. - Was quick to add Gordon. -

       The poor man couldn't help but feel more and more like an idiot and didn't know what to do to repair it. Her partner and more than a friend had done an excellent job of information and he had been blaming her for little less than flirting with that individual. And it was Gina herself who, oblivious to those thoughts nodded, then asserting.

From what I have been able to deduce from your words, the number of combat ships you have here is not even ten percent of the total.

- Not ten percent! - Peter exclaimed incredulous. - We don't have this number of ships concentrated anywhere. And much less of a similar porte. They surpass omega's fleet by itself.

- And I'm only  referring to those on their planet. - Gina added, leaving them even more stunned and then speculating. - To calculate those of their entire alliance perhaps you would have to multiply by four. Although it is a mere speculation, they could well be the most powerful world of their alliance and the others just a few comparsas that contribute almost nothing.

-Or, on the contrary. - Peter said. - That's why it's so important to get reliable information about your actual strength.

It seems to me that, as he speaks of his allies, and the precautions they take not to decide anything for themselves without their approval, must be at a fairly even level of forces. - Estimated Kira. -

- If so, if we wanted to put up any resistance in the event of a conflict, I don't think that even Cassiopeia's ships would be enough. Unless, of course, that guy exaggerates or is an artist of deception and wants to make us swallow a bluff bigger than a red giant. - Cautiously added Gordon. -

"In that case I don't know what would be worse," Kira said. - But I don't think we should worry about that. At least, I do not detect in him any feeling of hostility towards us. Or is he a true master at hiding his emotions as well.

- You yourself have said that it lets you get as far as you want. - Gordon replied by adding this time in a very shrewd way. - Who doesn't tell us that's precisely what they want you to think?

There were a few seconds of silence, everyone seemed to meditate seriously on that possibility and finally Gina rebutted.

- I don't think so, I don't know how to explain it, but when I talked to him he even proposed that one day we could go to know his planet. I don't know, he said it very cordially. He was noticed relaxed during the conversation. At least in touching on that subject, he spoke with a great sense of pride in his world, even of affection. I got the feeling that even when he referred to me about his combat fleet, he didn't seem to be worried. That's what I thought I felt, even though I don't have a telepathic ability like you, Mercedes. - Riveted somewhat timidly. -

No, but you are a psychologist and you are studying for diplomacy. - The questioner smiled, sentencing. - I think your assessments are very accurate.

- One of two- terr Peter messing his chin, an act no doubt inherited from his father. - Either they really want to be our allies and so they think they can impress us or they value us in so little that they don't care if we know their real strengths, thus sending us a warning. It's the same as when he invited us to board one of those ships. He doesn't seem to be bothered that we'll see them. You may even be following orders. I remember some military history classes at the academy and they told us that thousands of years ago, Publius Cornelius Scipio did the same with some Carthaginian spies he captured just before the Battle of Zama. He allowed them to see his entire camp, even showed them the cavalry, and freed them to report everything to Hannibal.

- Wow! - Commented a funny Gordon now. - I thought you fell asleep in military history classes like me.

-Not at all, friend. - His partner smiled. -

It's a good analogy. - Gina said, wondering aloud. - The thing is to know if he shows us what he has by trusting us to intimidate us or he does it as a kind of self-protection.

-Yes, like some species of reptiles or insects that show vivid colors to pass as poisonous without being so. - Completed Kira. –

-Or fish that inflate to increase their size and appear more threatening. - Peter added. -

- That's it, as I said it could be all lies and these ships make up your entire fleet. - It was ratified Gordon to whom those offers of the yumlaincer did not make any grace. - They might be trying to appear much stronger than they actually possess. Speaking of military history classes. You know what Sun Tzu's war code said, when you're strong show yourself weaker and when you're weak it looks stronger than you have, to confuse your enemies.

It's a good interpretation, but I doubt very much that those in his world know that book. - Peter objected. -

They may well have a similar philosophy. - Gina speculated. -

- Anyway, it wouldn't be very smart to send most of your forces here unprotected your world. - Refuted Kira by stating acutely. – Unless they have no enemies of any kind. In which case, I do not see why they would want to be ours.

- Why not? - Gordon insisted arguing with distrust. - That's precisely what you may want us to think. At the end of the day, we do not know where their world is and they do know the situation of ours. They should not have to fear a counterattack. That would be a good move. And maybe they don't have enemies because they've destroyed them all using this same ploy. Don't you think?

That made them all meditate. It was certainly a thorny issue. There were two possibilities that were well marked. Or the Yumlaincer were a peaceful people who fearlessly came to them to win friends, trusting that they were equally benevolent. Or they were a conquering people who were analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of their next prey by resorting to a devious ruse, feigning their desires for friendship. But how do you know for sure?

- It could be a good bluff, yes sir- peter acknowledged that he admired how insightful his friend became when jealousy beset him, however, he rebutted cautiously. - But we can't do anything until we're sure. First, that they really want to be our friends, second, if not, that they were all their strength.

Everyone agreed on that, whatever the case, for the time being the best weapon would be caution. Pierre and Lora thought the same thing, as did most of the Council. More so when they were informed of what Gina had managed to snover from that officer. After thanking her daughter for her good work, they asked her to convey to the rest to maintain prudence and not to let her guard down. After that, they chatted alone in the president's office.

It's clear. - Colonel Larans commented. - We will have to be very careful and measure our steps very well.

That's right. - His wife agreed, affirming with a touch of maternal pride. - And our daughter has been able to see very well through that boy.

-Our Gina has always been very intelligent, although she has never clearly shown it. I mean bragging about it. His grades at the academy have been excellent, even better than Peter's. And even though he was two years younger, he could have already been promoted to lieutenant. But the poor woman is too shy and has no leadership skills. - Pierre said. -

However, he has a lot of desire to make a career in space police and then in diplomacy. - Agreed Lora. -

          Well, actually, the president was aware that her daughter had enlisted in the space police to meet the expectations that her father had and mostly as a springboard for a future diplomatic career. But I wasn't going to tell Pierre that. Although it was her husband who first admitted.

In his diplomatic vocation he has gone out to his mother. Peter is clearly more like me. He prefers action to words.

-Yes, you are both brave and very intelligent too. But you lose the same thing, throw yourself into the charge without a second thought. - Lora smiled. -

- Woman!, which I have already matured over the years. - Pierre alleged. -

- Thank goodness! - laugh now your spouse, remembering amused. - I still remember the ones you organized between your friend Graham and you.

-The thing about rescheduling that weather surveillance probe to watch the football final was up to him.- She was quick to declare her husband. -

            The two laughed for a few moments, recalling that and other "feats" of youth of Pierre and his inseparable companion. At last Lora returned to a serious tone to sentence.

-Our children are judicious and very good guys. I only hope that their inexperience does not betray them. It is hard after a lifetime to lead them into the need to trust and to keep an open mind, to have to ask them now to be so cautious and distrustful of these new contacts.

Yes, but it's the best. - Pierre sighed. -

      They both looked at each other and Colonel Larans said goodbye, he had to go to his own office to supervise the patrols of the day. Lora sat and reflected.

We will see what happens at the next Council meeting. - It was said. -

Yener, for his part, wentor quickly to the call of the commodor who without preamble told him in a tone too formal for his liking.

- Orders from our world have arrived through the subspace channel that now connects us to Omega. Having received my reports, they have decided to appoint you as interim ambassador to this world.

- Me? - Yener exclaimed in astonishedness, he had certainly hoped for a reward for his performance. However, this overstepped him and he was quick to object. - But if I'm not a diplomat sir, and my rank is very low. Too much for that performance.

- Major. Take it or leave it if you wish - I replenish the commodus with a rather ceremonial tone in which he added as if it were a warning. - But know that this order is given by the Emperor himself who has deigned to appoint him using that prerogative. When a few months have passed since his tenure here, if he accepts the position, he will have to come and inform him personally.

Now Yener was pale. If the other thing had surprised him this left him nailed. For a few moments he was speechless. He almost babbled his answer in the form of a stunned question.

- To his Imperial Majesty in person? But how is it possible for you to choose me, sir?  There are tens, hundreds, or thousands of people who would certainly be more qualified than I am for this...

The commodus sighed to address Yener, now in a more confidential and even paternally friendly tone.

- Listen to me, son. You are very young and you have an opportunity that most officers, including myself, at your age could not have even dreamed of. You know that this position carries with it important honors and privileges, as well as a rapid ascent. I myself just elevated you to the rank of major while still a first lieutenant fresh out of the academy. But, as things have gotten and even if it's irregular, I'll have to think about promoting you directly to cruise ship captain. You can't be a representative of our world for less than that. And I will be your military attaché.

- Does that mean I would give the orders? - Yener inquired without knowing if he was dreaming or hallucinating. - Lord, it's nonsense," how can I be above you in the range? - He exclaimed forgetting for a moment who he was talking to. -

- Boy, - smiled Cresat who was taking charge of the emotions that assaulted the young man - over time you will learn that, sometimes, rank is not so important. Our Emperor is surrounded by the wisest men of Yumlaiance. Experts in politics and many other things. If you have decided this and have so advised our sovereign, it must surely be for reasons that both you and I do not know. You just have to tell me if you accept or not.

- Can I speak freely, commodifying? - Asked the boy to avoid another slip -

Cresat nodded urging him to do so with a snob of his hands and after an embarrassing silence Yener said with a slight smile and confidential tinge.

- I'would be silly if I didn't accept it, sir.

- You may be a major fool if you accept it. - He was refuted by the rear admiral. - Think about it Yener, it's a lot of responsibility as you said yourself before. Keep in mind that, being an ambassador, your word is that of the emperor and the government.

- But I will have you as a counselor, sir-Yener replied this time with visible carelessness, as if once recovered from the surprise I would take control of the situation. - And what you propose to me will surely be the most convenient. Skarn Dailin himself always surrounded himself with great sages and people of great worth to help him in his missions. And I certainly don't even get to the sole of the shoes.

That made Cresat smile and he joked visibly flattered.

- Maybe I'd start to understand the reason for your appointment, Yener. In fact, you know that since the times before even the great Skarn Dailin, the lords of the Kai have served as consuls and ambassadors in distant lands. Let's just say you're doing nothing but maintaining that tradition.

The boy nodded. It was true. He had studied it in the history classes of the school and in the monastery itself. For centuries the monks of the Kai had served, first sommerlund, then, with the great alliance of the kingdoms, Yumlaiance. It was not at all unusual for anyone to be entrusted with such missions. Skarn Dailin himself, whose name meant the Lone Wolf, served as ambassador to the lands of the then-named Vassagonia, being younger than Yener himself. Although of course, he was Lone Wolf, the mythical refounder of the Kai. Name of its order in the ancient language of Somer.

No, I'm certainly not going to try to compare myself to him, not by a long shot! - He thought he was instantly ashamed of such boldness. -

Okay. - Sighed the commodus who happened to inform him already seriously. - I will assign you to commission the command of the battlecruiser "Durenor" Technically your current captain will become your second in command, but will continue to take charge of the ship given your priority in the diplomatic role.

- Does it all have to be so complicated, sir? - Yener wanted to know that he seemed confused as heeded those explanations. -

- I am afraid that given the circumstances and the protocol it is the only viable thing to do. Normally the position of ambassador would be given to someone with the minimum rank of admiral or an approved in that rank. But I cannot promote you to more than captain, except by an express order of the high General Staff...

- I will do what I can sir, I will not disappoint you. Not you, not the emperor, let alone our world. - Yener said now with visible enthusiasm. -

- I hope so, for you would not disappoint me, but as you said later, the emperor who has trusted you, and therefore our world. - And after a thick moment of silence, the military veteran added with a more light-hearted tone. - And now go to rest, you will need it.

Yener greeted by saying goodbye to the rear admiral. He walked around thinking about how much he would appreciate having his master Light Goshawk there.

-He always knows what to say to guide me. And right now that's what I need most. I'm really lost. - Admitted. -

      He was in those thoughts when he crossed paths with his friend Larus.

- How about the day?,- asked him this as a casual greeting. -

- It hasn't gone badly. - Yener smiled with visible satisfaction responding with a feigned monochord tone. - I think he liked a precious omega and I have also been appointed ambassador of our planet here with the rank of star captain.

After Larus' laughter, Yener stared at him and remarked seriously by shaking his head slowly.

- No kidding...

- What do you like about a girl here? I have not doubted that for a moment! - Se rio su contertulio sentencing. - For Maray that will be true!

        Although he stopped doing so when he saw the unaltered expression of his friend who insisted.

And the other, too.

- Won't you mean it? - Exclaimed Larus without being able to believe it. -

Before the inordinate eyes of his interlocutor Yener told him about his conversation with the commodus, his friend listened to him more and more surprised and exclaimed.

- In the academy I always said you were a lucky guy, but this is already too much!

- Rest assured, I'll try to hold an important position! - I replenish Yener with a tone of feigned pomp. - Anda let's celebrate. Again I invite. So you won't be able to complain either. Stingy of Guadail!

- Next time I'd like to be the one to invite. For example, when the Campirians beat Prehistar the final of the league. He joked this one with a laughing expression infecting Yener. -

- That's not even in your best dreams! I prefer to keep paying myself first! - Rio his companion. -

Yener then rested a hand on his friend's shoulder and led him to the canteen and they both got lost in the hallways as he secured him.

-We will find the way for you to invite...

And after having a drink each one went to rest. In the days that followed, the yumlancers remained on their ships, waiting for instructions. Taking advantage of that pause Kira and Peter, Gordon and Gina, among others, were required for a routine mission, they had to approach a planet in a nearby solar system. It was inhabited by a race of human beings of low technological level. Although before they had to do field mission and provide themselves with data that confirmed the need for such intervention. Thus, accompanied by an android of Professor Enius Master, Peter went with an informant to a bar on the outskirts of Port Doppler, Omega's trampling, named after the earthly one. Although they did not go there alone, several more members of the police were deployed.

I hope we can throw down the gauntlet. - Commented Peter. -

-If everything goes well and they do not suspect, surely the recruiter will come today. - He confirmed his contact. –

You have a reputation for being a serious informer, Clark. - The policeman said, objecting however. – But I must tell you that we have made enquiries and none of that seems credible. How can there be mercenaries in Omega? - Wanted to know. –

The answer didn't come to him, at least not before a group of guys running down the street beat him on his side. Peter looked at them with an unfriendly expression, but chose to let him be. His informant merely pointed to a poster with the drawing of a dog smoking a pipe and pointed to him.

-That's the tavern.

While Peter rubbed his shoulder, somewhat damaged by the previous encounter, he observed that the android did not stop looking from one side to the other.

-Come on Metro, you always have to make us waste time with your nonsense. - He said with a warning tinge. –

-No, I do not waste time, I simply instruct myself. Your world is strange and quite absurd. - He valued that robot. -

           They finally entered that slum, riddled with guys who drank or ranted. Some even devoted unfriendly glances at him, full of suspicion.

-What a panorama. - Valued Clark. -

Peter noticed an important detail, he should have worn plain clothes so as not to attract attention. Of course in those environments his uniform was not very well received. Above all, discretion was imperative and they did not give the impression of being two guys who had finished their working day at the nearby docks.

-A few beers. - Asked the confidant. –

Meanwhile a guy who must have been from Andromeda approached the policeman and with a tone visibly affected by alcohol asked him.

- Huh, boy!  Don't you offer a drink to a friend?

Although turning around and taking a sullen look at him, that individual seemed to realize that Peter was a space cop. He immediately walked away, musitating.

- Oh! Sorry.

- What is the point of this? - Metro asked the guy, pointing his own head with one of his hands. -

          Ignoring that, the individual who attended the bar, a greenish being, golden and with a pear-shaped face and bulging nose, served them the beers asking in reference to that kind of silver-colored artifact, and cylindrical shape propelled by small wheels.

- Does that crap drink?

-The pot will be you. - He replicated the android with a metallic reverb. -

-Not for now, but do not worry, we will drink us to your health. I myself drink for four, skipper. - Clark intervened, paying another pitcher. -

        The bartender made no further objections and both the officer and his confidant went to take a seat at a somewhat secluded table, with the android by his side. From there, despite the background noise full of conversations, and the occasional algarada, they had a good overview of the place.

-Metro. Can you pick up the sound and record from here? - He asked Peter. -

Of course. Don't worry. - He asserted this with what seemed like a tone of sufficiency more than evident. -

             Their interlocutor nodded, they waited a while longer until, in effect, two guys entered the premises. It was a pair of individuals over two meters and corpulent. They were from one of those alien races from Aldebaran, if Peter wasn't wrong. They walked a few steps until they sat at a table about five feet away from the position Clark and Peter occupied.

- Can you see him from here? - He wanted to know Peter, who was turning his back on that table. –

That's what I'm here for, it seems to me. - Answered the android with a tone that could pass as retintin in a human. –

And by activating a directional microphone, he sent the humans that conversation.

- They are inferior beings, they live in caves. - One of those guys explained, wearing a red T-shirt. – They live off what they hunt with wooden spears. Do you realize it? I have the impression that these must be semi-detached and very curious people.

- And what do we paint on that salad? - He wanted to know his interlocutor, who wore a blue T-shirt. –

-First we will install the base, then the reinforcements will arrive and from there, we will have no difficulty conquering the planet. - He explained the type of the red shirt. –

- And all that on whose behalf? Do you want to tell me? - Wanted to know the other. –

Look, I think it's better not to try to know more. - He was warned by his informant. - We will be paid well and with our weapons there we will be kings.

Peter and Clark listened with great interest, the confidant asked.

- Are you sure you have reinforcements?

Yes, they are waiting outside, camouflaged. - He was reassured by his interlocutor. –

And then they kept quiet to continue learning about the plans of those two.

Even if he is well paid, a mercenary must know who pays him. - Declared the type of blue. –

The other did not replicate that, what he did do was lower his voice and whisper.

-Silence, there's our recruiter.

A bizarre-looking robot, with its chest full of buttons that lit up with some sort of pre-programmed cadence went towards them and took a seat between them. The sound was cut off and Peter impatiently asked.

- What's up, Metro?

-With permission, I will install a wave interceptor, so my nice colleague will not be able to detect me. - The android replied by showing off his sarcastic ability. - That's it. – He announced with a tone marked by satisfaction. –

The broadcast resumed and they could hear the red-and-red talking to that recruiter, presumably his partner.

According to his service record, he is a volunteer soldier.

-Well, in two nights, when the moon comes out, a ship will go to look for you. - That android was heard responding in a slightly metallic voice. –

Peter for his part smiled, looking towards a table later winked and nodded. Suddenly a bar brawled interrupted the words of that recruiter who devoted a suspicious look to his surroundings. Those guys who pretended to fight were infiltrators. That was the indication to intervene.

We have enough. - He told Metro. - Soon, make the signal.

The android did so and instantly a group of policemen appeared through the windows and at the entrance of the premises, pointing their guns inside. Gordon led them. In this way they expected to arrest these guys without raising their suspicions of having been monitored, with the excuse of intervening to prevent a brawl. At least that was the plan. Peter and his informant got up to go to those guys and proceed to arrest them. However, that sinister recruiter turned the tone of his voice into threatening to tell the guy in red.

"You've talked too much, I'm going to destroy you.

- No, no! - His interlocutor begged. -

           But that robot did not have the compassion precisely among its guidelines, with great speed it inserted its two hands into the chest of each of its companions and exploded. Luckily for them, Peter and Clark stood behind the table just moments earlier.

- Wow! - Clark exclaimed, commenting not without humor. - Here they put some extremely strong cocktails. Don't you think, lieutenant?

          Peter didn't answer that, he stood up and helped by his fellow space policemen arrested the odd suspect and put some order. Although he left those arrested in charge of that patrol since his priority was to report what happened.

It's going to be a hard thing to explain. - The young man sighed. -

-Do not believe it, I have recorded everything. - Metro intervened. -

           The boy nodded, that at least spared him from having to deal with giving details as well as serving as expert evidence. So, without wasting a minute, he asked to see his direct superior Commander Graham. He soon received him in his office, although as soon as the young lieutenant briefly told him what had happened, Commander Stevens testified.

Your parents should be informed of this, I mean Colonel Larans and President Dair. Wait until I locate them and we can meet.

           The young officer smiled slightly, though he soon regained seriousness.  Sometimes it was difficult for someone as close to his family as Commander Graham to separate personal and professional grounds in this regard.

Yes, my commander. - The lieutenant replied. -

           Graham immediately warned his friend and superior, Pierre in turn brought Lora to the fore. Fortunately, the president had a free space in her agenda and summoned them to her office along with Professor Maestro. Once there, and with the help of Metro, Peter was able to report in more detail. At the end it was his father who, messing up his chin, took the floor.

-I have no doubt, those of Cassiopeia must walk behind this.

But we have no evidence that this is the case. - His wife objected. -

-The first thing is to locate the planet in question. - Pierre said. -

The central computer at Omega's government headquarters was put to work. With the help of that little data he was showing possible worlds that fit with them. Although one by one, they were being discarded. Either by Lora and her companions or by metro itself who claimed before the report of one of them in which they showed a species of beings similar to crabs with two long legs, using sharp sticks to skewer their prey.

-On that planet the scorching heat happens with the freezing cold. I don't see it fit for human life. They also said that they lived in caves and I don't think they live in any of them. Metro said, once again with tinges of sarcastic sufficiency. -

-We could be confusing caves with burrows. - Colonel Larans speculated. –

- Hey! - Terció the wise Master, addressing his android with a somewhat irritated tone. - Do you know you're becoming very pedantic, young man? I'm going to have to tweak your circuits of modesty.

- This one is good, the youngster will be you! - He insolently replied that cybernetic being. - Modest, modest with the example you have given me!

Those present exchanged looks of stupor combined with barely restrained smiles. Even Lora had to make an effort not to laugh seeing the face of the eminent professor, who quite irritated replied.

But hey. What way of speaking is that? You should be ashamed to address your creator like this.

We must eliminate that planet and the next one. - Pierre intervened to settle this controversy. –

-Let's move on to the next one. - Graham agreed. -

At last, a planet appeared that did match a margin of error of less than two percent.

-Planet Diana. - Indicated the computer. – in large galaxy M-31, Andromeda. Distance two million light years. Atmosphere suitable for humans. Primitive beings. It will take about twenty thousand years before their level allows them to join the Confederacy.

It seems to me that we already have our planet. – Pierre declared. –

And the computer ended up ratifying that idea by finishing.

-They are primitive beings, they all live in caves. They live off what they hunt with wooden spears.

It's the same thing that that individual said. - Commented Peter. –

I must convene the council and inform it of this without wasted any time. Although first I will call some trusted members to bring them up to know. - Lora intervened. –

-I will accompany you. - Her husband said. -

They did so, notifying a couple of delegates with whom they usually agreed, the president told them.

Colonel Larans has decided to send a force against the assailants.

I agree. - Dr. Newman of the constellation Scorpion intervened. – But as for these assailants we have not the slightest indication of their identity.

It's true. - Agreed Lora. – Mere suspicions are of no use to us if we lack proof.

In any case, to warn whoever they want them to be, I am in favour of a deterrent action. - Newman said. -

-If the invader is one of ours it can be a complicated decision, it will have to be submitted to the council. - Another of those present representing Rigel intervened. –

That is the most thorny thing, we will have to count on the problems, fears and interests of some. - Lora stated, adding with concern. – We do not have the majority to act on the council, if the assailants are among us they will know our intentions and make a mockery of them. Within the framework of my duties, I can cover the operation with the police, but their strength is limited. And the colonel wants much more. Because of their commitment to confederation, she would like to know what they thought.

That made his contertulios think. The president was right. The most natural thing would be to convene the council to obtain a greater capacity for intervention, within the legal framework of the Confederation, however, the probability that some of the instigators of this illegal conquest attempt were in the same assembly was too high. Therefore, despite being a much smaller performance, his contertulia could ask for at least the agreement of two representatives, who, together with their own permission, would empower the police to send a flotilla to patrol that area.

It would be a purely deterrent action then. - Rigel's representative said. -

That's right. We cannot afford for those who are pulling the strings to have time to retreat and scupr all our efforts. - Lora sentenced. -

             Although everyone imagined who he could refer to, for the sake of the most elementary prudence, no one uttered their names.

I agree with you, I think that, for the time being, we should limit ourselves to the police operation. - The Rigelian representative replied.

-If the adversary attacks hard, it will be insufficient. - Valued Pierre. -

Dr. Newman scratched his head and moved his two pairs of arms. He finally intervened.

-Gran Testa is right. - He declared, alluding to his companion of Rigel who curiously and according to his name, wore a head larger in proportion to his body than the human one. – I opt for a vast police intervention.

That was agreed. After thanking their allies for their support, Lora and Pierre concluded that meeting. The president would be forced to report to the council, although before her husband could make preparations and send a contingent of ships. They planned it. Pierre went straight away to tell his friend and subordinate Graham. So, already in his office, he called the commander and explained.

I would have liked to have had one or two heavy ships.

"You don't have to worry about that, man. We will get ahead with what we have. - Graham encouraged him. –

And nodding the colonel gave permission to call the officers who would be put in charge of that flotilla. It was Graham who warned them.

-Pass gentlemen. – The commander said.  –

Five officers entered, including Peter and Gordon. Upon entering they squared up before their superiors and Pierre ordered his friend.

-Speak commander.

He immediately obeyed to explain to his subordinates.

-Mission of surveillance and defense of the planet Diana against any foreign incursion. The cruisers Kangaroo, Cobra and Snake will participate in the operation and sail respectively under the orders of Captains Elstrong, (pointed to a human with somewhat graying hair), Aggar (a four-arm individual from the constellation of Scorpion) and Malpa (another being of somewhat ape-like characteristics). I will direct from Hummingbird. The light ships Dragonfly and Spider, commanded by Lieutenants Larans and Stevens will have as their mission the surveillance and contact to collect reports. These are the orders, flight in formation to the target, departure in ten minutes. - Graham concluded not without first recalling. – Do not comment on anything with anyone, your crews will be informed once the march has started.

The officers greeted and formed once again turned in left variation leaving the office, ready to head to their respective ships. Upon leaving, Pierre gave his friend an affectionate tap.

- Very good boy! - He congratulated him funny. –

- Thank you, boss! - He responded to this one with another somewhat stronger tap causing Pierre to almost swallow the table. -

- Oh, sorry! - Graham immediately apologized. –

And it is that that colossus of ninety-three meters of height and more than a hundred kilos was not often aware of the strength he possessed. Pierre being only six centimeters lower and a man of robust constitution, he could not compare in physical power, despite that, he was able to smile still trying to recover from that "affectionate tap"

-Don't worry. - There goes almost eighty percent of our forces, at least of the most powerful ships we have. -He sighed detailing. -Four cruisers and two light escort ships.

It's a risky bet, yes. - He valued Graham. - We will barely have some light patrol craft left. Just now that we have so many visits. At least whoever they want them to be won't expect it.

- I hope so! - Pierre said, commenting afterwards. - Go, go... you have to take over the command.

Graham greeted his superior militarily and went straight out onto his ship. Pierre stayed meditating on that. In addition to going to protect that planet there was the uncomfortable question of those mercenaries camping at their leisure in the heart of Omega's capital.

We'll take care of that later. - It was said. –

Meanwhile, Peter and Gordon respectively warned Kira and Gina to accompany them as their co-pilots. In just a few minutes they were already taking off, in formation after the four cruisers that were the vanguard and strength of that flotilla.

-Dragonfly speaks to Spider, is everything going well on board? - Peter was interested, via intercom. –

- Perfect, lieutenant. - Gordon corroborated with good spirits. -

And the boy was happy. He liked to go on a mission, especially in one with so many ships and more than anything, take Gina to his side. At least it would be far from that presumptuous Yumlaincer.

-Let's move on to Hyperspace. - Graham notified. –

They did so by taking advantage of the speed of curvature that allowed them to traverse thousands of light-years in just a few minutes. Despite this, the journey would take at least ten or twelve hours. Fortunately they could sleep during that time or chat about many things. That's what Gordon really liked. Although he knew well that his co-pilot was a shy girl and it was always him who tried to propose topics for conversation. On this occasion and very cleverly, he omitted anything that involved Yener. So, as soon as they got ready to accelerate and after activating the magnetic protections of the seats, he told her.

-You'll see, hyperspace is wonderful.

Gina nodded. She had made flights during her instruction at the academy, although she had never reached that speed. I was curious to experience what it must feel like. Although in all honesty nothing strange was perceived due to the protection they wore. Of course, the screen lit up with the light of millions of stars as if they had merged into a kind of iridescent whirlwind, it was something almost hypnotic.

-It is very beautiful. - Musitó the girl. -

However, after watching it for a few minutes, that lost prominence and they entertained themselves in programming the trajectory, chatting little and rather trivial things.

"The same thing always happens to me. When I am alone with her, I never dare to address the issue. - Gordon was censored. –

And that of talking about more serious things in terms of their relationship always choked him. The boy would have preferred to punch a saurian from the green planet rather than tackle that issue. At least based on some timid precedent. Every time she slipped something that alluded to that Gina would smile somewhat angry and turn red without giving a clear answer.

-Women are like that. - It was said Gordon, trying to convince himself. - It's also not to declare yourself in the middle of a mission. This requires a more romantic place and time.

But of course that was neither the time, nor the right place. The bad thing was when and where it would be. Meanwhile, in Peter and Kira's ship things were more relaxed. The advantage of this young woman was that, having so developed the gift of telepathy, few things could be hidden from her. Although she of course did not dig into other people's minds without permission or just cause. Peter on the other hand was more talkative than his friend on the other patrol boat and immediately told his co-pilot, after having made her aware of what happened in the canteen.

- What do you think we'll find there? Perhaps men and women of the caves, like those on Earth?

-Possibly, judging by what you have told me. - She nodded. –

I hope we don't disturb them. If they are such a primitive culture, they must be able to develop without any outside interference. - The young man commented. –

- That's why we're going there. To prevent that from happening. - She replied. –

They chatted a little more and soon slept. The onboard computer informed them that they were nearby after the alarm sounded and they were awakened. That's right, they were going to come out of hyperspace, and in doing so they found themselves with a really superb vision.

There it is. Andromeda's Galaxy M-31 is formidable! I would never tire of seeing her. - Peter exclaimed when the shape of that huge swarm composed of billions of stars appeared. –

Kira smiled, that almost childish joy of her partner never ceased to amaze her. Even knowing him so well. And he really liked to see him so excited and bounful. His face and his way of speaking were certainly too simple to interpret as having to bother using telepathy.

-It gives the impression that everything was new to him. - The girl thought. –

And after a few more minutes approaching the speed of space-time curvature, the commander's voice spoke to them.

-To all ships, called to all ships. Attention, we enter the sun's attraction zone of the planet Diana. We describe an ellipse to avoid it. - He warned, wishing to leave that star away. – Objective in front of us. Kangaroo, Cobra and Snake with me. We will remain in orbit outside the stratosphere. A lot of attention to meteorites. - Instructed to rive. - Stay on the lookout, lieutenants... Spider to observation, Dragonfly research on land. Remember, no interference in the lives of the indians. Do not use weapons, except in case of extreme danger. Understood?

Yes, my commander. - Gordon replied. –

Gina smiled as she listened to him and the young man immediately questioned her with his gaze. The girl said funny.

We're going to stay up here. That should have been said by my brother.

"Well, you never know. - The boy commented somewhat whipped. –

Although his father's voice was still heard with more instructions.

-Program approach. We will stay in touch, good luck.

As the Dragonfly descended. Peter observed a fairly wide plain and indicated this to his companion.

- Take a look! Let's try to land there.

Kira nodded, directing the ship towards those coordinates. After carrying out routine checks on air composition and disinfection of pathogens that could lead to that world, they soon landed and disembarked.

-Good service, folks. - Greeted Peter in the direction of the sky, watching as his sister's and Gordon's ship was placed in a stationary position in the planet's troposphere. -

Kira took the floor to remind him.

Apparently, they were right in that report, they live like our ancestors, as they did twenty thousand years ago. What I do not understand is that they are so similar, not to say identical to us.

-Mere evolutionary coincidence. - Peter speculated. –

That's not that simple, and you know it. - His partner told him. –

I don't know, otherwise someone should have brought them here. And not exactly yesterday. – Elucidle the young man with a reflective gesture. – I would like to check that out.

They left that for the moment and set out to explore the contours. They took a long walk and Peter himself said a good while later.

-We have been walking for hours and we have not found anyone yet. However, during the flight I saw fires in this area.

-It is not surprising, there will be very few, in the time of the Cro cro croons there were fewer inhabitants on Earth than in one of our cities. - Kira replied. –

-Yes, this planet has an equatorial diameter almost the same size as the Earth, its conditions are very similar. The population density will be negligible. We could walk for days on end, or maybe weeks and not find anyone. - The young man admitted. -

Just then Peter noticed that something was moving in the valley they had in sight. They were able to spot three individuals, two young men and one woman, dressed in furs. One of the men carried a pair of torches and led the entourage, they crossed a stream standing before a large grotto. That guy threw the torches inside and within seconds a huge bear came straight out onto him. The man escaped and his companions attempted to injure the animal with wooden spears ending in flint tip, but were unsuccessful. That great bear that according to the calculations of the boys, would almost reach three meters high on its hind legs, knocked down the ringleader of a sail, threatening his life before the impotence of his companions who tried to drive him away to stones in vain.

"We have to help them, that monster will kill them all. - Sentenced Peter by pulling out his ray gun and pointing it at that animal. –

This clearly violated the instructions he had received to refrain from interfering in local society. However, the lives of human beings were in danger and in their scale of values that took precedence. In addition, Commander Graham's orders were not to use them except in case of extreme danger, not specifying whether that referred to them or to anyone. Therefore, technically they were not going to disobey but to interpret those orders. In support of his approach Kira nodded, musitando uneasy.

-Beware, you can hurt them.

"You're right, you have to go. - His partner admitted, sheathing his laser weapon and pulling out a knife. -

-I cover you. - He offered Kira, in turn unwrapping his regulatory weapon. –

Peter didn't think about it and ran towards those guys trying to approach from the opposite side of the wind so that the bear wouldn't smell him. He had pushed away another of the hunters and despite having a spear stuck in his belly, he was advancing upright towards that terrified girl who was lying on the ground.

-Bad idea. - The young officer was told looking at his ridiculous dagger. -

       He put it back away and pulled out his gun, now that given the proximity to that big bear he couldn't miss the shot. The young chrome on the other hand squealed in dread watching helplessly as that beast hovered over her. Luckily, he was not in danger, with two shots from Peter and Kira they managed to kill that animal.

Come on, we must attend to it. - Urged Peter. –

With two cloths wet in water they managed to revive her. His companions were also safe. The young woman opened her eyes watching these two strangers astonished and intimidated, with those clothes so bright and rare. The two raised a hand with their palms open as a greeting. At last he gave the impression of calming down and musitó something unintelligible.

-Aoba a abo aba

However, Kira translated to the surprise of her partner.

-He says that if the hunter has died everything will be useless.

- How! Do you understand their language? - The bewildered boy asked. –

-No, no... I read your thoughts. - He smiled modestly at his contertulia. –

Peter immediately crouched down to examine one of the hunters lying lich on the ground. After posing his ear against his chest, he commented.

-His heart beats. Come on, a little effort. - He tried to encourage him with kindness. –

Luckily, that man had only received superficial wounds and a blow that caused him to lose consciousness. Little by little I was recovering it. So much so that he unexpectedly got up quickly and running towards the bear's corpse he climbed one foot up and started screaming.

- ¡Aue, Aue! Aue Grandpa, Auewa...

The woman then said something that, of course Peter did not understand, although Kira immediately translated it.

-He says that Apar is a great hunter, the best of all.

And soon those grateful individuals guided them to the village, but not before they had chopped and skinned that animal.

-It's called Apar. - Kira commented to his companion, alluding to that hunter.- A strange name.

After crossing a stream, that man began to question a group of individuals who were in the distance.

-Appear she abu...

- What does it say, Kira? - Wanted to know Peter. –

He says that his father was a great boss, revered by all. - The young woman told him. - And that on the day of his death terrible things happened.

Apparently from what Kira was able to grasp, a guy of bad catadura and his henchmen had se seeded power in that clan.

-One day that the usurper and his men went hunting, Apar challenged the bear god, to prove to everyone that the chief was him. - The girl concluded. -

-Ey ou vaya pur.- Added the woman of the cro-cannons.-

Yes, now I understand everything. - Peter sentenced. –

It seemed to be a struggle for the power of his clan. And of course, killing a beast of that kind would make everyone respect that young man even more than the new boss. For her part, less aware of that, Kira could very clearly perceive the interest that this young woman had in her partner. Although she had to admit in turn that that hunter did not dislike her either. It was precisely Apar who led them to the group of people who had set up a rudimentary camp. As they approached, the two patrolmen were able to watch in amazement as these people lived exactly as in the Upper Paleolithic Earth. Some even carved stones with great skill.

-It must be a style similar to Magdalenian. - Estimated Kira. – They are using flint or a material composed surely of silicon.

-You are the geologist. - Peter smiled at that interpretation. –

That's right, the girl had studied that specialty simultaneously with her training at Omega's space police academy. It was certainly important to be able to recognize formations and types of rocks on the worlds they were to watch. In fact, almost all cadets had to choose a specialty to pursue along with general training and common subjects. Peter opted for criminology and military strategy, in order to finish off his preparation in order to focus on his police career. However, she was guided more by an interest in science than mere pragmatism.

-Look. - His companion whispered to him. –

They saw a group of women drawing water from a stream with wooden buckets and another rocking a baby who did not stop crying, he did it in a crib quite enough, made of the same material as the cubes. Yet it seemed like a more sophisticated social group than they had a priori believed. The division of labour was evident and coordination between these people was certainly there. As well as for sure, the social hierarchy.

-They must be a settlement of a few dozen people. I don't think they go over a hundred. - Estimated Peter. –

As they got closer, all those individuals stared at them in amazement. It was clear that for them their appearance was also very strange and surprising.

- This looks like a movie! - The lieutenant exclaimed, alluding to those ancient forms of recreation on Earth that they had studied in history classes for at least a thousand years. –

The young woman of the clan led them to a cave, there was a thick cloth covering what should be the entrance. Both young men looked at each other. They had not imagined that touch of refinement to safeguard privacy in the people of that time. His cicerone pulled the curtain slightly away and went in. They waited outside.

He has not told us to go in. - Commented Peter. –

-That's right, he wants to warn someone of our presence. - Kira corroborated him. –

In fact, the two heard the voice of the girl calling someone.

- ¡Eh!, Dominated.

Meanwhile Apar had gathered the entire town and next to the bear skin that he had placed upright and extended between two long intertwined stakes, he narrated his feat to the group, using a spear to give greater effect to its history. Peter and Kira watched him from afar, just as the young woman was leaving the cave accompanied by an old man with a very long beard.

-Aue Par... aue. "The girl came to say. -

- He looks like master Enius! - Peter exclaimed upon seeing that individual. –

-He is the same as the teacher, he is called Domino, he is wise and sorcerer and he was a priest in the time of Apar's father, everyone respects him. - Kira commented adding. – It would be very interesting if we could talk to him.

And to the surprise of both patrollers, that sage addressed them perfectly using his language to respond, albeit getting lost in an almost endless rant.

-I see that they understand our language, that is magnificent, and they have helped our young friends. We'll be able to understand each other, well, I'm a bit of a witch. Only the boss's moron doesn't respect me. But believe me, that's going to change, and very soon, well, I shut up. Tell me, where did you come from?

After recovering from the surprise, it was Peter who, taking the floor, responded.

-From the planet Omega, it is more than two million light-years away.

And crouching the boy took a stick with which he drew in the sand.

"Here's the Andromeda Galaxy...- He said making an allusive sketch. -

-Two million light-years. - Terció Dominé, stating with one of his hands on his chin. - It's a good walk.

And crouching next to Peter he identified without any problem the constellations that he drew.

- Where have you learned all that? - He wanted to know the stunned boy. –

- Ah, our ancestors knew a lot, you didn't invent anything. - That individual replied, adding. - I have done nothing but inherit the wisdom of those celestials. I can assure you that your knowledge was immense. They knew how to mold metals with fire and make all kinds of objects with them. They had instruments to measure time and space and fixed their words by means of signs. They could raise great wits, and even soar themselves through the air. - He related while molding the rough shapes of a figurines in clay. –

- And how did they get here? - He wanted to know Peter, as he gave a bite to an apple that that solicitous young woman had offered him. –

- What has become of them? - Kira also inquired. -

-Calm, calm, I will tell you. " That teacher replied. – According to legend, a long time ago a great cold spread across our planet. Almost all of its inhabitants perished. Then they came, as you do now.

The two patrolmen looked at each other perplexed. It was clear that they were not the first to visit this planet, not even those mercenaries from whom they were trying to protect those people could have been those visitors. Then then. Who was it about? Fascinated they continued to hear the story of their host who told them.

-From a distant planet, detached from their world settled here. At first they revered their memories and their gods and then eventually everything was forgotten. I am perhaps the only one who inherited his knowledge. It's pretty, isn't it? - He asked showing that statuette that clearly resembled what in prehistory was called a venus. - Tomorrow I cooked it, I'm so tired... and so much to know, for what?, to grow old and then die. - He sighed with a clear tinge of sadness. - Yes folks, good evening. - He said goodbye. -

Kira took pity on that old man, it was obvious that he was at the end of his days and that he regretted that there was no one able to relieve him in that task of being the bearer of the knowledge of the village. He let it be, maybe that was normal for someone so old. He noticed his partner Peter who, far from worrying about it, devoted a lot of attention to that young woman of the cromañones. She decided to go with him. Just then, their hostess was guiding them to the outside of the cave, it was already night and they could see that the clan gathered dancing and celebrating around that skin of that great bear and a great bonfire.

-It has been very interesting what he has told us about the celestials. - Kira said. -

It's true. Already in archaic culture, Plato spoke of a civilization brought to the earths by gods arrived from the sky. That was a long time ago. - Peter declared. -

I agree, but other cultures and other religions have also spoken of those powerful gods who left their teachings here. - Kira reminded him. –

As much as they thought it was something really enigmatic. Perhaps some other civilization besides the ones they knew could be the cause of that? Who would be the ones who arrived on the planet Diana? Then Kira, as if she had had one of her intuitions, commented to her partner, calling him in the affectionate way she sometimes employed.

- Do you think Pedrito that maybe those yumlaincers could have come here before contacting us?

It could be. - Granted this stating. - Maybe it would be a good idea to ask Yener on our return. –

The young woman nodded. Although surely that boy did not have to know the answer either. Although it wouldn't be out of the question. Although he could not say anything, Apar saw them approaching and cheering his face called them waving one of his arms and exclaiming.

- ¡Eh! Ahua eah Jane, uhae oh…

And he offeredKira a shot that she took. That left Peter alone with that girl he, believing he understood Apar had called her that, he said.

- You know Jane? I would very much like you to call me by my name. - He told her as the girl clung to one of his arms. - I am Peter, you are Jane...- He indicated repeating it again as he pointed himself and then to her to underline. - I'm Peter, and you're Jane...

-Yo Pedrito, tú Jane. Yes? - The young woman repeated to the astonishment of her interlocutor. -

- Ha, ha, ha! - Rio he frankly amused to insist. - No, I'm Peter, you're Jane...

Just then Kira and Apar were approaching, giving the impression of having been in turn trying to communicate and Jane asked Peter, trying to use some words in the boy's language, probably learned from master Domino.

-Pedrito, she and you... married?

No, we are not married. We're friends. - He was quick to clarify it. –

- Ah! ... then Peter one day will marry Jane. - Sentenced the girl. –

That certainly didn't sound so bad. Peter noticed her a little more in the light of the bonfire, she was quite beautiful, with a harmonious countenance, a thin nose with blushing cheekbones and reddish hair. Her breasts were a good size without being excessive and she was slender at the waist. Peter calculated that he would measure about seventy meter. To some it may have seemed quite high by that time, although he knew that this was not so rare, given that the male cro-croons reached the eighty meter without problems, as estimated in the fossil sites that had been studied on Earth. Apar himself would be around that stature if he did not exceed it. It must have been like Peter himself or something taller and he measured a meter and seventy-eight centimeters.

-Thank goodness that this last year I gave a good stretch, I grew almost eight centimeters. And according to the last medical examination, although I am already twenty years old, I will still have to grow a little more. - He thought with pleasure. –

Although he still fell short of reaching his own father who surpassed him by at least seven or eight centimeters. But hey, that wasn't that important either. And contemplating that beautiful and innocent young woman, he could only say.

Well, who knows?

That aside, he joined his partner along with Apar and Jane and they danced and laughed a lot, after tasting some roasted bear meat (they didn't think it was bad at all) they retired to sleep, each one to a kind of small cave that the hospitable people gladly gave them.

-I will call the Spider parta inform you that there is no news. - Peter said. –

It's true. We've been here for hours and we didn't even even have remembered. - His companion agreed. –

Through his radio broadcast the boy sent a message that immediately reached his classmates. Gordon told him.

-It was about time for you to call. Gina and I were starting to worry.

-Calm down, tell my sister not to panic, everything is going great. We'll tell you. - Peter answered carelessly. –

-Very well, change and close. - Gordon smiled. –

Gina was in another compartment of the ship preparing something to eat soon returned and her partner told her that.

- Don't be scared! - He said something annoying. - They've been down there for at least ten hours and hadn't contacted until now.

-Woman, her vital signs, which we are monitoring since they went down, have not been altered. - Gordon replied conciliatorily to add. - And apparently they've made friends in that village or whatever they've discovered.

Gina sighed by shaking her head to sit back and sentence.

-My brother always so crazy. Everything is taken lightly, as soon as there is something that catches your attention or amuses you. It seems unbelievable that he is the older of the two! I'm barely eighteen and I always have to worry like I'm his mom. Well, it doesn't surprise me, but I thought Mercedes would be more aware.

Of course Gina was quite mature for her age, not in vain was able to enter the academy at just sixteen years old which was the minimum age. But even then she was much more mature than her older brother who was eighteen at the time and who sometimes behaved, (and still did) as if he only had twelve. Gordon thought that not without a certain tinge of guilt, in that he was like his friend. However, Mercedes was like Gina, so she was quick to respond with a reassuring tone.

-You know Kira, if he has not said anything so far it is that he will not have felt danger.

Yes, I trust her. - Admitted Gina, who wanted to change the subject to inform her friend and partner. - I've warmed up a few servings.

- Huum, standard campaign rations! - The boy exclaimed with an unspeathed joviality and sarcasm, to say straight on. - What a delight! We could take them with a couple of sails to save energy from the ship.

It was clear that this was a camouflaged invitation to make that a romantic dinner. Although Gina didn't seem to catch it when she said it, giving the impression that she was thinking about the life support system.

-No problem. We're with the energy level at over eighty percent.

Of course, I hadn't noticed it. - The disenchanted boy sighed. –

They ordered the onboard computer that immediately raised a table and pulled out two conical shapes that were the seats for both of them. Gina brought the rations and Gordon placed the rest of the necessary cutlery that appeared in a compartment of that table. Although it was not too large it was functional, it would be one meter long by almost eighty centimeters wide. The youngsters sat on the sides of the longer part so they could put everything in the middle.

"Well, I don't know what antediluvian delicacies those two will have taken down there, but they won't be worse than this. - Gordon alleged. –

-Well, these rations have just the right balance of fats proteins, lipids, glucose and carbohydrates, and they don't taste that bad either. - His interlocutor smiled slightly. –

-The truth, if I told you what we ate on the planet of the saurians! - He smiled. -

The girl moved her head significantly in a clear allusion to not being too interested in knowing it, less when they were going to eat. The boy nodded not wanting to make him have a hard time and they started having dinner without much more ceremony. They finished just half an hour later, after tasting one of those cryogenic and freeze-dried desserts they had. They didn't talk much, they didn't know what anymore. They took quite a few hours of mission. They were tired, although following the ordinances they would have to sleep in turns since they were on a mission of support and surveillance. Gentlemanly he offered her.

-Go to sleep. I will ride the first guard.

-Thank you, I relieve you in eight hours. - The girl replied. –

He nodded and Gina moved into a separate room that acted as a bedroom. The truth was that those Dragonfly-class patrol boats weren't that uncomfortable. With its more than twenty meters in length and about ten of sleeve had a useful area close to two hundred square meters on two levels. In the lower one settled the apparatuses, engines, radar, and other engineering equipment. In the upper one it was mostly occupied by habitable area for the crew which was only two members, although in cases of emergency it could accommodate up to four people. Interestingly while they were on that mission, Yener was in her cabin studying some of these specifications.

-They are short-range ships. - The boy was said. - But they still go with them to other galaxies to do surveillance missions. They use what they call Hyperspace. Which is our equivalent of dimensional jumping. - He noticed. –

And it is that both cultures did the same thing only calling it differently. Yener could not understand why, but had woken up in the middle of the night, (if that criterion could be applied while in Omega's orbit on the cruiser Durenor where he had been transferred) He slept without problems until he dreamed something, it seemed to him to be in a world surrounded by primitive people and Kira called him. Or maybe I was talking about it. The young man's mind was now wondering if those people who dressed only in furs and used tools and weapons made of stone and wood, had anything to do with their own remote ancestors.

I don't know. - Sighed Yener. – But it is still strange, that they are maray's children like us, in such a remote place...

He decided to leave that and sleep again, he needed to rest to be cool the next day and start taking care of his new obligations. Also on the planet Diana came a new day, after getting up the two boys went to greet their hosts. Peter met master Domino and after giving him good morning asked.

How are you doing today?

-Well, I can't complain boy, bone pain isn't so bad when the weather is good. – The questioner answered, wanting to know in turn. - Do you know how much they are going to stay?

Not much, we will have to return to inform our superiors. - The boy explained, adding. – You will be surprised when we tell you that we have not been the first to contact you.

-Oh, well, it's been so long since the celestials left that it's almost as if their arrival was their first. – Said Domino. -

-And after them, they never again had visitors coming from heaven.

-No, not really, sometimes UFOs have been seen, that's what unidentified flying objects are called. I would like to see welcome signals sent to them. But the boss doesn't want to. That moron says they can only be evil spirits. – That kind of shaman replied, while both walked towards a nearby stream –

At that moment the old man repaired the arrival of a group of warriors, he told Peter.

"Wow, right here it comes, that's it. - He pointed out in reference to the boss. –

Peter was surprised that kind of square chin, prominent nose and rude expression reminded him a lot of General Tirelius, he couldn't help but smile a little. That impression was reinforced since that individual seemed to be angry, he was talking in the direction of a short guy with reddish hair who looked at him with a gesture between fearful and servile, in addition to sneezing from time to time. It was precisely at that moment that Kira was coming out of one of the caves, and she was able to capture the thought of that guy when, arriving next to the great bear skin, he asked in amazement.

- Who hunted this animal?

Apar then appeared, after leaving his cavern he pointed to the skin and hit his chest.

- Was it you? - Exclaimed the unbelieving boss. - You? - he repeated breaking to laugh, and with him the men who accompanied him. –

That red-haired guy then climbed into one of his boss's ears and whispered something to him. He nodded. Apparently they had noticed Kira and Peter, who watched them with an unflappable gesture accompanied by Kira and Domino.

-I will try to convey to you what they say by telepathy. - He informed Kira using precisely that mode. –

His partner nodded, just as that guy, coated in white and red hunting paints, stood next to him. He did not exactly smell good, although he did not take the floor to the visitors, but, first of all, he turned to Dominoes reprimanding him.

-And you always wasting time instead of working.

The old man simply listened to him reluctantly as he displayed his already cooked venus figurine. The boss then asked. Focusing your attention on newcomers.

I have never seen these. Do you know them? Let's go! Who are you? - He urged the shaman to demand an answer. -

They are friends. - He was finally informed by Domino. –

- Friends? - The unbelieving boss repeated. –

-Yes, friends from another planet. – He qualified his interlocutor. –

But once again, that short-haired, red-haired guy came to whisper in the clan leader's ear.

-Do not listen to boss, that is nonsense.

That is nothing more than nonsense. - The chief repeated, immediately accusing them. - Surely they conspire with Apar. Let them be arrested. - Ordered. –

Instantly two of his men pointed their spears at the visitors. Neither Peter nor Kira made the slightest gesture to defend themselves. It was Jane who, extending both arms, tried to reason with the chief and his warriors.

-Beoi Upar aki tua boaiñana mei laoka... Moula mei makan - He said hastily, finally pointing to heaven. –

He's saying it's true. That we came from heaven and are friends. - He translated Kira to his partner. –

However, that red-haired dog kept misremembering and told its leader.

"Hey, boss, Apar is a traitor.

- Long from here, traitor! The boss is me! - The leader spied, pushing Apar. –

Apar turned wanting to go against him, but two warriors with spears got in the way. Peter mithropic Kira, but she slightly sneered her head in a negative gesture. Although things changed when the boss grabbed Jane by the arm and told her.

-Come here, you will be my wife...

And not content with that, he held Kira also by one arm affirming.

-You will marry the canijo, it seems that he likes you and it is time for him to have a wife.

Peter attended that scene between incredulous and furious, he was going to intervene when that red-haired dwarf dared to touch Kira, but it was not necessary, the young woman responded by snatching a slap that threw him to the ground.

- Wow! - Peter smiled. –

Of course, her partner did not usually resort to violence, let alone lose her temper, although on this occasion it was more than justified. He was being held by two warriors, taking one of each arm. It wouldn't be very difficult for him to break free with some martial arts techniques, but he chose to be more cautious. Nor did I want to provoke an escalation of violence that would end worse. Luckily the boss focused on him and asked.

"So you say you come from heaven. Isn't it? You will have to prove it, otherwise you will end up in a trap like bait.

Peter nodded, fortunately, Kira kept telepathically translating that.  He assumed he would do the same thing in reverse, taking his words to that guy. In addition, he would now have the opportunity to ask for help from his friends who were patrolling in the troposphere. That's why he responded calmly.

-So you want proof, huh? I agree. - Agreed, to finish. - Well, I'm going to give you a good test.

And now he did not refrain from letting go of those two who held him with two blows that threw them to the ground. He immediately raised one of his arms with his hand up and used the other hand to press his shortwave transmission to say in a bombastic tone.

-I appeal to the great spirit of heaven, I call the great spirit...- He stopped for a moment, winked at Kira and musitó with a tinge of complicity. - I think the great spirit hears me. - And he added more seriously. - Can you hear me, mate? Answer, great spirit, answer.

In the Spider this transmission was received perfectly, Gordon's face was perplexed, when he heard it as a finish.

-We need you urgently...

- Spirit of heaven? Are you making fun of me or what? - The young man wondered. - Do I have a face of great spirit? What do you think?

It was possibly one of Peter's jokes, though Gina soon knew not. His brother's tone was one of haste. He didn't hesitate to tell his partner.

- Don't you understand? It is serious. It is in danger and it cannot tell us.

-We are going to your aid. - Gordon ruled by scheduling the descent of his ship. –

          On land meanwhile Peter told the boss.

-There it is...

          Although nothing was seen yet. The unbelieving clan leader replied sarcastically.

-Yes of course, boy, you have just communicated with the great spirit of heaven... Ha, ha, ha, ha!

            He laughs eagerly followed by his acolyte, that nasty red-haired little man. At the time his supporters laughed equally. In contrast Apar, Jane, the boys and Dominoes kept a complete silence. After a few moments, the chief ceased his laughter and ordered with severity.

-We have laughed enough, let them take it away!

However, it was then that the Spider appeared in the sky, getting bigger and bigger as it descended. That stunned all the members of the clan. Some ran blinded by panic, on the contrary, Domino sighed.

-Great. I sense that we are going to have fun.

Fortunately not even the faithful to the boss were able to master his dread. There was that great spirit that they might have offended in some way! Peter and Kira looked at each other and smiled. His friends had made an appearance just in time. And as for the boss, after the first moment of stupor he immediately remade himself, he could not be intimidated, his leadership was in danger.

-Spirit of evil, go! - He exclaimed addressing that strange object descending. - We don't want anything with you.

-Go, disappear. - He was supported by his acolyte the red-haired canijo. –

"Come with me. - He asked the leader, even pulling him. - Come...

That other one wasn't so convinced, but his leader forced him to approach that thing. It was reckless of course, because they were placing themselves just below the ship when it was going to ignite its secondary reactors, which were under it, to regulate the descent.

-It will vaporize them. - Musitó Peter, unable to do anything anymore because of the distance they were at and the danger involved in approaching. –

And the boss and his hen, oblivious to that, continued with their cascade of imprecations and challenges.

-Disappear where you have come from. Haven't you heard me?

Surely neither Gordon nor Gina, could detect the presence of either since then, and to the horror of Kira who looked away, the jets of plasma from the reactor were lit incinerating those wretched.

- Oh! - The girl exclaimed, looking away. -

Although the rest did not blink, there was little affection they had professed to those two in the clan. Even Domino allowed himself a comment that sounded jovial.

-Right now I must go and cook my statuette.

      Peter then mused to his partner.

"Let's not tell my sister and Gordon any of this, they couldn't sleep, and it's not their fault. Those two got under the reactors when they were in the middle of the maneuver. Aborting it would have meant a serious risk to the ship.

Kira nodded, with little stomach to say anything. At last the ship of his companions landed after lowering its anchors. Once the landing walkway was deployed, both appeared down the stairs and watching in perplexed as a group of several dozen people was kneeling and with their heads touching the ground in an attitude of submission.

I think that not interfering in primitive cultures was about this. - Gordon sighed, looking at his also stupefied companion. –

-I must confess, that to raise self-esteem is something unique. - Musitó she. -

They then embraced their companions relieved to find them safe and sound. At last, it was time to go home. Peter and Kira would board the Spider for their companions to bring them closer to their own ship, parked more than a couple of miles from there. After chatting briefly with Apar and Jane, the latter asked Peter.

- Are you men or gods?

-We are people like you. - Peter confessed. –

"Then I'll leave with you. - He offered him she. –

It was clear that this was impossible. Peter replied, tactfully and kindly, while Kira said goodbye to Apar with two kisses on the cheek.

-No Jane, no. Your life is here with yours. Apar will be a good husband for you, and also a great boss for your people. - He added by raising the girl's chin gently. –

Kira then raised her voice and declared, to address the entire clan.

-You have to elevate your human condition. Banish brute force and know the respect you have for your fellow man. Love others whoever they are. Progress, one day you will be worthy to live with all who live in heaven. And that day we'll be back.

That said, the four boarded, Gordon and Gina immediately took their friends to their own ship.

- What an experience! - Peter commented before addressing it. - We have played to be gods, and never better said.

It is something that should not be done again. - Kira pointed out, stating. - It's a huge responsibility.

-Well, do not take long, we must inform my father. - He reminded them of Gordon. –

His friends nodded, it didn't take them more than a minute to get on their own ship and start the takeoff sequence. Then, following the Spider, the Dragonfly climbed up in the sky, immediately overcoming the troposphere, the stratosphere, the mesosphere and the rest of the layers until it went into space. They immediately reported what happened. It was the voice of Commander Graham who answered them.

-Integrate into the formation., We have detected a group of unidentified ships in the process of approaching the planet.

It must be them. - Kira said. –

-A formation of eight battleships is heading towards you. - Reported the cruise ship Cobra. – We ask for instructions.

-Here Hummingbird, Cobra and Kangaroo in formation, Snake set out to attack from behind. - Graham ordered that he continue to hand out instructions to tactically outdo his potential enemies, then attempted to contact them. - Here interstellar police. Who are you? Make yourself known or we will open fire in five seconds...

At first these ships did not seem to receive the message since they did not alter their course. Graham reeled off the countdown coldly.

-Five, four, three, two one...

There was no response and the commander ordered that it be fired. Several cruisers launched a burst of concentrated ion rays, two or three of them warning, but the next one did hit one of those ships destroying it. Omega's flotilla was already preparing its shields, ready to receive the counterattack, but those ships opted for withdrawal.

They are quick, I think we will take time to see them. As a safety measure, we are going to lay some space mines. - Graham testified. –

Those mines were as advanced as they were. Virtually undetectable they were programmed to go on a collision course against any metal body large enough and close enough to them. If they spread near the planet Diana they would make a safe approach virtually impossible for any invading ship.

- Is libélula known? - The commander wanted to know, qualifying. - What happened down there? Did you run into any of those mercenaries?

No, sir. We had other, less complicated concerns. - Peter replied. –

We have accomplished the mission, although perhaps we made ourselves too known. - Kira added. –

-Do not worry guys, it has been a lesser evil. - He claimed his veteran superior. -

        The taskof that patrol had been to make sure that this world continued its natural evolution without any kind of interference. Although what they discovered when intercepting those ships they didn't like at all. Despite being warned.

I must admit clark was right. - Peter told Kira, during the return flight. –

Well, that means that we must watch much more closely not only what happens on distant planets but in our own home. - The girl said. -

His companion nodded scheduling the course of the trip. They rested and once back, in addition to Commander Graham, informed the president and the chief of the space police.

Yes, as we suspected, they are people who still live in the Upper Paleolithic. - They were referred to by Peter. - It has all the characteristics that were present on Earth about fifteen or twenty thousand years ago.

- Specifically from the Magdalenian Lithic period. According to metro's explanations with which I agree. - Kira pointed out. -

- Now that I'm falling, why didn't you take that android to Professor Enius? - Lora inquired. -

-The teacher wanted to make some adjustments. A pity, it would have been invaluable help. - Peter replied, adding yes, with resigned patience. - Anyway, I hope the professor has perfected it. If I stopped talking down to my elbows it would be perfect.

Kira laughed, along with himself and his interlocutors smiled at that statement with which everyone agreed. It was true that this robot had already helped them in past missions, but it also had a somewhat exhausting personality, especially because of its pedantry. It was not uncommon to see him sometimes argue even with his own creator, famed robotics and astronomy professor Enius Maestro, who was one of those who taught the boys, as, in addition to being a wise advisor to the council, he also worked as a professor at Omega's space police academy.

-We will have to tell professor Master to correct that a little, if he has not already done so. - Pierre said. -

- With a gag! - Graham jokingly exclaimed, making everyone laugh again, despite the seriousness of that information. -

"Well, let's focus then. - Lora intervened and finally took up the seriousness of the matter. - Anything else you want to tell us?

-These people are as intelligent as we can be, that is evident in the samples of rock art and furniture, in their social hierarchies and in the incipient division of labor, among other factors. - Kira abounded. -

-Although they totally lack technology that could be of interest to us or the invaders, presumably Casiopeans. As evidenced by the presence of those ships that we reject. If they were theirs, of course.  - Peter said with obvious prudence. –

We could not identify them. - Graham intervened. -

So, assuming they were them, what I do not understand is that alleged interest of Cassiopeia to settle there. - Added Pierre crossing his arms. - It's not like it's in a particularly important transit zone either.

-It could be that this planet is rich in some mineral resource that interests them. - Commander Graham conjectured by messing up his blonde mustache addressing the brunette girl. - What do you think, Kira? As a geologist you will have inquired about it.

Yes, indeed. It is a planet with uranium deposits and has other elements that make it suitable for extracting raw materials in abundance. In the face of heavy industry. - The girl replied. -

-Then it must be for this reason that General Tirelius, if it is him at all, - pierre guessed nuanced with manifest sarcasm, - has laid his eyes on that world.

-Or for worse things that I dare not imagine. - Lora sighed to address the boys. - Thank you very much, you have done a magnificent job. As usual.

Both Peter and Kira greeted militarily and withdrew. It was up to omega's two top police officers and the president to talk about the connotations and possible consequences that would have.

If we obtain clearer evidence, I will have to ask the consul of Cassiopeia about this matter. - Lora said. - If you could prove your intervention it would be a flagrant violation of the conventions of our confederation by your world. It goes directly against the principle of non-interference in other cultures less developed than our own.

"Indeed, agreed her husband who was already sighing resignedly in turn. - The difficult thing will be to see how we do it so that they confess that lack. That little man paints them just to get me out of the way. He is the voice of his master and always has some excuse at hand.

- Leave it to me! - Graham exclaimed raising one of his big fists. - I could have a conversation with him and with the Tiñoso.

-Friend. - Pierre smiled looking at him amused. - I wish it were that simple! - And stop calling General Tirelius that way or one day you will escape in front of him or his emissary.

- That guy looks like he had the ringworm! - Graham laughed justifying that nickname. - He's always with a grumpy dog face.

We'd better leave this issue. We have enough to worry about our new "allies"- Terció Lora. -

- Do we know anything new? - Pierre inquired and now devoted himself to such a question. -

No, although it seems to me that there is movement. - Graham said. - Their ships are still in the neutral zone, which, thanks to our agreement, they can now transit. Some of them have left, we assume, for their planet. To inform or to go for reinforcements? That's an interesting question.

So far we have no objection to his behavior. They have not shown the slightest degree of hostility. Quite the contrary. They are very friendly and polite people. - Pierre pointed to settle the matter. –

- Hear!  And what if the ships we intercepted in Andromeda were yours? - Wanted to Know Graham-

I don't think it's likely, it's too far away and I doubt they know the position of that particular planet. - Pierre asserted. -

"I also see it as very difficult, but you never know. It could be that, for once, we were wrong and the Tiñoso had nothing to do with it. - His friend opposed. –

Both Pierre and Lora looked bewildered. It was finally the president who wanted to conclude the meeting by sentencing.

-All in its time. For now I am much more inclined to the Cassiopeia hypothesis.

And all three of them adjourned the session. Meanwhile Peter and Kira went to rest and on the way they talked about their friends. Shortly after returning Gina and Gordon had departed on another, in this case much more routine, mission, to monitor a nearby sector composed of just a couple of planets in orbit to a yellow dwarf star.

-In short, I hope that your patrol flight is developed without incident. - Sighed Kira. -

- Do you mean in or out of the ship? - Smiled Peter. -

Her partner returned that smile by shaking her head to replicate.

-Don't be bad. The poor are at that beautiful and at the same time important stage of taking the step towards a more serious relationship.

- Well, let's see if they give it already! - Your interlocutor laughed. -

-Well, it is something that needs to be thought through a lot. - The girl commented carelessly. -

"Yes, "agreed Peter without giving it much more importance. - Although now I don't feel like reflecting on such profound things. I've almost been on the verge of marrying Jane! - Laugh, to rive off after a yawn. - I'm going to sleep I'm ground, good night. - He wished his companion. -

And without looking back he bent a corner that led him to his rooms at the base, losing sight of himself.

-Until tomorrow, Pedrito, may you rest. - Musitó weakly she looked at him with some sadness in her eyes. -

But he also went to his room to sleep. They would surely have a lot to do in the days that go by. And that served his superiors equally. The next day Lora, Pierre and Graham effectively met with the rest of the council and before the confederation delegates gave their report on what happened. Of course the consul of Cassiopeia was outraged by not being informed at the time.

It was a simple police surveillance operation, a smallity. - Said Pierre trying to take the iron out of it. –

-A smallness that compromised four cruisers of the six that it has and two patrol boats. - The consul watched sharply. –

And you won't know anything about those ships we run into, right? - Graham inquired that he had come to report firsthand. –

Of course not. What do you insinuate, Commander? - He wanted to know his interlocutor, with an offended tinge in turn. –

-Nothing, cleanse me the sky. - He answered the question with considerable aplomb. -

The consul crossed his arms looking around with a grumpy gesture and declared.

We have no idea what the reason for this accusation is. My world has not sent any ships, nor does it have the slightest strategic interest in such a remote area of the Andromeda Galaxy. And if you persist in this attitude, which is as unfair as it is arbitrary, I will file an official complaint with this council.

-Please, Mr Consul. - Lora intervened trying to calm the tempers. - No one is accusing them of anything.

That's what you say. The commander has only needed to try to put on my handcuffs. - He denounced that guy making an ostensible gesture with his arms while putting both dolls together. –

I apologize if my unfortunate words have sounded like this to you. - Graham intervened with obvious discomfort. -

And taking some air to calm down, his friend the chief of the space police patted his back and declared with obvious sarcasm.

-To see if I have understood. Ships in formation, resembling those of their Murena class, and refused to identify themselves, approached the planet Diana and turned a deaf ear to our warnings. Commander Stevens simply asked you if you knew anything about it. But he hasn't accused him of anything. You claim that they have nothing to do with it. Am I going well there, Mr Consul?

That little man looked at him with iniquity and declared with an expression of offended dignity.

That's right. We have had no part in that incident. Still, he asks us instead of anyone else, I don't like what that means. This will reach the ears of my government and will have consequences. Do not hesitate.

The atmosphere was certainly very charged. The remaining delegates looked at each other in bewilderment. Some, such as those of Orion or Earth, criticized Cassiopeia's actions. Others, such as Those of Andromeda or Centaur, justified it, launching their criticism towards the police.

-The consul should not be so offended. - Orion's envoy commented. - If they have nothing to do with it, it is enough to deny it. We do not doubt his word.

"It is that his planet has been insulted for the mere fact of throwing that suspicion at him- Terció the representative of Andromeda, adding with equal anger. - And interstellar police ships have entered our galaxy without being authorized.

You know that, under the agreement we have on patrols through the confederation's systems, our police forces can go there without requiring prior permission. - Pierre reminded him. –

- At least they could have had the courtesy to inform us. Who doesn't tell you that that other group of ships didn't take you by an invading force? - He denounced his interlocutor, sentencing. – Thank you that, despite their undelicit attack, they did not respond or we could be involved in a war.

They were clearly warned that we were going to open fire if they did not identify themselves. And if they didn't respond to the attack, it's because they were aware that they were in a place they didn't belong to. - Pierre sentenced. –

There were more murmurs, arguments and counterarguments. Things seemed to be getting out of hand.

- Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished delegates. Terció Lora making an effort to be heard in the midst of these exchanges of accusations and reproaches. - The last thing we need now is to rival each other. I propose that we put this vexed matter on hold until an in-depth investigation can be carried out, and above all until our new alliances can be formalised. - He sentenced with a conciliatory tinge to propose. - Let us vote that this zone be declared in quarantine for all ships of the confederation, in order to avoid exposing that culture to our influence.

- I think it's fine- the Consul was quick to agree that he seemed relieved to have a truce. - Do you see it? When you ask for things with common sense and courtesy, there is no problem.

- For my part, I protest - the representative of Andromeda intervened who was quite upset, although he was able to dominate himself in favor of diplomacy. - But I will abide by the Council's decision. If it turns out to be that...

"Let's vote," lora said neutrally, to whom those words did not do any grace. -

The vote, as expected, was in favour of forgetting about that issue. It was decided that, in fact, this area of the quadrant of the galaxy would be declared closed to spacecraft traffic. But no one wanted to get any further. Cassiopeia had too much influence and no world wanted to be indisposed with its powerful coalitions, being aware that Andromeda was the most prominent of them. The matter was apparently settled, although in the minds of Pierre and Lora only for now. The only thing they could do after the result of the vote was to politely request the consul of Cassiopeia to inform their leader that it had all been a misunderstanding. The latter, assuring that he would do so after an immediate consultation with General Tirelius, changed thirds to divert the conversation to another topic less committed to him.

- Members of the Council. I must inform you that we have detected an outpost of unknown ships bound for our southern border. I would like you to clarify if you belong to any of the worlds of our confederation Do you know anything about it, Colonel? - Asked Pierre. -

And he sketched a triumphant smile, thus taking revenge for that question that was still arising from the previous dispute, thus trying to return that question that he himself received from Commander Stevens.

- I can assure you that I do not - I make a serious gesture accusing this mockery inside, without allowing his contrariety to surface. - Does anyone present have anything to say? - Asked in turn receiving a content silence by answer. - I guess it may be up to our new allies- he uttered this last word with some irony. -

- They should talk to Commodus Cresat- proposed a representative of the star Centaur -

- It will be a good idea to do so. If it is a matter for them, we must inform them that we cannot accept the presence of so many ships from their planet on our borders without having been officially invited. - Graham intervened. -

-- I immediately establish contact," lora agreed, calling immediately, after a few seconds Cresat's face appeared on her computer screen. -

- Good morning, Madam President. - Greeted politely. - He wanted to talk to me.

- That's right, commodifying - I replenish Lora with an unsystollied tone, but yes, polite as in her was usual, when receiving the translation of the computer. - We have received reports that a new squadron of warships has been placed on the border of one of our member worlds. We want to know if you are aware of this fact.

- I can assure you that these are not ships of my world. Nor were we aware of it. - Cresat replied whose gesture also showed some surprise. - Although they could belong to the rest of the planets of our alliance. You must know that we are informing them of our meeting and they must also want to establish diplomatic relations with your confederation.

- And they do it by bringing in such an appreciable fleet of battleships. - Graham intervened with a good dose of polite sarcasm. - It's a bit strange mode. Don't you think so?

- Honestly it's not a usual procedure. - The commodor admitted that he added with more reassuring overtones. - Although if their intentions were hostile I assure you that they would not be detected so easily. But do not worry, if they are allies our nothing should fear from them.

- Anyway, and to proceed to a formal presentation, we have ordered a squadron of our Murena-class star destroyers, along with some of the Nautilus type to come there, to greet them, - the consul smiled with a sarcasm much more evident than that employed by Graham. -

Everyone in the room was stoned. If something went wrong, producing any mistake or suspicion, a conflict on a multi-planetary scale could be triggered. Thus, Rear Admiral Cresat testified after a few seconds of pause in which he had taken the opportunity to investigate his command center in the fleet.

- It seems to me that they are indeed ships of Nataclia, Akapler and Ciloner, our allied worlds. Yes, they have recently made contact with my ships by sub-space channel. Although they also inform me of the presence of large unknown ships near them.

- They are our destroyers - declared the consul with an unsyguised tinge of pride. -

"I will notify you to leave that position and go here," Cresat said. - You're sure to want to meet them. Oh and something else, from now on they will no longer talk to me to get in touch with my world.

- Oh no? - Terció Pierre asking inquisitorially. - With whom will we do it then?

- Are you relieved? - He wanted to know Lora more tactfully. -

- Captain Rant will indeed do so. You know him, he has been appointed ambassador plenipotentiary of Yumlaiance. - Cresat informed them, hiding a funny smile when he saw the reactions of his interlocutors. -

This did indeed come as even more of a surprise to the Council, however, and as a good diplomat, Lora knew how to react naturally to say.

- Well, you will have to provide me with your number so that I can call you if necessary if it is not inconvenient for you, commodifying.

- I will do it right away, although it is now absent, it will be incorporated in two hours' time. I will let you know. - Cresat said with all courtesy. -

- Very well, thank you Commodus Cresat. - Lora dismissed him with equal kindness by cutting off communication. -

Murmurs of some dissatisfaction with the words of his new ally could be heard in several delegates. Of course they did not please some of those present and this time the consul of Cassiopeia did obtain a great tacit consensus from the members of the Council. (Even that of Graham, Pierre and even Lora herself to his regret), when he stated with calculated, though not excessive irritation.

- Those yumlaincers don't seem to take us very seriously. I do not understand why it is appropriate to appoint such a low-ranking officer as your ambassador.

- He was the first to contact us. - A representative of the Rigel II system opposed.- Possibly in his world that is important.

I agree with that. - Dr. Newman added. - We don't know their customs in that regard. Perhaps it is their way of honouring our alliance. We must not rush into our judgment.

- Yes, it's true. - Terció Graham who paradoxically supported the consul on this occasion with his statement. - But once contacts have been established at the highest level, it would be natural to send a specialist in diplomatic matters.

- I guess our new friends must have powerful reasons. As Dr. Newman has outlined, we also do not know its mechanics of action. So let us wait and see how events unfold, for the time being the main issue is the issue of these ships. Lora intervened as always calling for prudence. -

- It's true. - Corroborated Pierre. - Our first obligation is to ensure peace and to do so nothing is more convenient than to try to establish friendly communication with the new arrivals.

This time there was absolute agreement which was expressed by murmurs of approval.

- Well gentlemen. - The president declared that the matter was settled. - I think this is all for now. We will keep you informed.

And Lora proceeded to dissolve the meeting with all its members wondering about the turn things would take.

**ESPAÑOL**

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