UNC008E

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   **Unforeseen  twist**.

During the journey back to Omega, Graham informed the boys of what had happened. Just after they left   for the planet Onis  IV,a squadron of destroyers from Cassiopeia had arrived at the star port, in one came Tirelius, the general in chief of the forces of that world and authentic dictator, although his official version was that he was elected in the elections of his planet. In any case, he came to chat about the new alliances and from what seemed at first he was willing to play hard.

-Anyway. - Graham referred them. - From the moment he disembarked he made us see that he was not satisfied.

- And what have you protested about now?, commander. - Wanted to know Peter. -

          His interlocutor sighed a little his blonde mustache to respond.

-As usual, he complains about our interference in his space and that we have questioned the good name of his consul. Of course, the president has had to calm him down by using all his tact.

Peter sighed in turn, feeling sorry for his mother. She did show patience!  Enduring that cocky, despotic individual was a heroic task. However,  both he and Kira were surprised by the commander's next words.

But both she and the colonel were surprised by the general's attitude. Daba the impression that, this time, Tirelius protested to cover the file. - Grahamrevealed to them that he nevertheless qualified. - Well, that's  what he usually does. However,  he did so with a much more moderate tone than usual, immediately accepted the explanations offered to him and shelved the matter,  expressing his desire to meet with the ambassador of Yumlaiance.

- Wow! - Yener intervened and was listening to that with great interest. -

From what Commander Stevens  explained to them, since Yener was not there at the time, that meeting was not possible, which caused the president of Cassiopeia a deep irritation.

Then he was himself again. - Kira smiled. –

Indeed. - Graham agreed. - Anyway, it seems to me that they soon appeased him.

In fact, Cresat was able to promise him that his wish would be fulfilled very soon. That made Tirelius satisfied. When the escort ships that had accompanied the Dragonfly reported what had happened, the Confederate cruiser was sent to contact the boys' ship to bring back Yener  as quickly as possible. Fortunately when he was making a round around the vicinity of the planet he picked up the radio signal. The rest was already known to everyone. So, once they left to chat with the commander, Graham called the ambassador of Yumlaiance and, accompanied by Peter and Kira, made him aware of what was affecting him.

-And that guy? How is it?  -  Yener wanted to know by addressing his  friends. -

"He's a man I don't know personally." -  Kira replied by adding with an even-handed tone and as objectively as he  could. - It would be very pretentious of me to give an opinion based only on what people say.

"Well, but you can rely on his policies." -  Peter reminded him, adding with a tone of disgust. - Ese tipo es unimperialista. It does not miss an opportunity totry to expand itsterritory. He knows himself in a position of strength and likes to tighten our pegs, to see how far we are willing to give in...

A carbipation from the commander  interrupted those interesting words. The veteran officer then intervened.

I am sure that the ambassador will want to meet him without preconditions.

Yes, sir. - Peter nodded. -

It was clear that Graham didn't want that impulsive boy to give too much information to the yumlaincer. Although in all honesty Yener those words had been very useful to him.  And so he didn't resign himself and wanted to ask.

Then. Do you advise me to be firm or flexible?

"We are not the ones to give advice to the ambassador of an allied power." - The commander replied adding with a conciliatory  tinge. - Understand that  both  my superiors,and the authorities ofCassiopeia themselves,  could see it as an interference in the affairs of another world.

Yener nodded slowly, but he clearly noticed that this man did not want anyone from the confederation to stand out by criticizing that Tirelius in excess even though it was very clear that he did not enjoy much predicament amongthem. The reason could be mistrust. They probably feared that he might tell the general all that.

Yes, I fully understand that, Commander. He replied with kindness. - Thank you for your institutional respect. If you'll excuse me, I'll get some rest.

"Of course, one of my officers will point out a booth to you." - Your interlocutor nodded.

And indeed, an ensign led him to a small cabin on that ship. As the yumlaincer walked away, Graham held a small council meeting with Peter and Kira.

-You should not tell him anything about  Tirelius. -  The commander reproached the young  officer. - We do not know if a closer alliance with Cassiopeia could be in theinterests  of  cassiopeia.

"I think we can trust him." -  Peter said.  -  Andthatplanet certainly covered each other's backs.

Yes, but it is one thing to have to deal with a common threat and another is interplanetary politics. Down there, in  Onis  IV, he was an officer who, along with you, was trying to get out alive. Now he will be the ambassador of his planet - The commander qualified with a fatherly tone to indicate to the boy. - Look, Kira for example did not say anything to him.

The girl kept a hurried silence, and Peter another thoughtful and guilty one. Although it was Graham who added by taking the iron out of the matter.

-Look Pedrito, I've known you all my life. In this you are like my son, noble and confident. You say things the way you feel them and you think most people are just like you. And  it's  usually a good quality, but quite a few times it's counterproductive. I'm not saying Captain Rant is a bad person. Maybe you're right and that guy is legit. But, even if he were, he is in the interests of his world and is a military man.  Let's say you're right and he's a good guy. Even so, his superiors couldorder him to go in a different direction than he himself would like.

Yes, you are absolutely right, Commander. - Admitted the whipped young man. - I'm sorry I was too loquacious.

Nothing happens. I feel that Yener's interest was genuine and that on this occasion she just wanted our advice. Heseems to feel lost too. - Kira encouraged him. -

Well, that, having to deal with General Tirelius, could be dangerous. That guy is not exactly distinguished by his understanding and goodwill. - Ruled Peter. -

"Well, let's leave the matter, for better or for worse nor we are responsible and soon we will get toOmega. - Graham said leaving both boys there.

Peter sighed looking at his partner as he commented no without some discomfort.

"I annoyed her.

-No, none of that. -  She was quick to tell  her. -The commander has simply given you some advice, I have not perceived that he wasangry,  sunamente  restless.

Thank you, Kira. - Smiled the boy he added trying to shed that vexed affair. - Anyway. There is little left to get home. I'm ground.

"Yes, we need to take a vacation." - The young woman smiled.

"Well, I don't know if my father is going to give them to us. Especially  after losing a dragonfly. Itis that I do not learn! Look you told me you felt something strange. I should have listened to you.  -  He  self-censored with glaring frustration. -

I didn't know this was going to happen either, I just noticed something that wasn't goingwell. But it happens to me sometimes and that doesn't have to mean anything. In fact, it is almost never of any significance. - He was encouraged by his contertulia which he advised. - The best thing will be that we do like Yener and sleep a little before we arrive.

His partner agreed. Surely upon arrival they would have to report carefully what happened. For his part, the aforementioned yumlaincer was in that small cabin lying on a bunk bed and thinking.

You don't have to be a genius to realize that this Confederation is divided. That was pointed out to me by the commodus. The bad news is which side we would do well to offer our friendship to. Although officially all those worlds are part of the same organization. I do not know. As soon as I arrive, I will ask cresat foradvice, in short, after I get the angry. Before I will rest a little, I do not think it will take long.

And Yener went to sleep. Ineffect,the return trip was quick, on arrival at Cresat airport and an escort group of  Yumlaiance soldiers were waiting for their ambassador. The platoon presented weapons. The commodious greeted him  smiling at the presence of his men and the rest of the people who gathered at the place.

"Let's go to a quieter place." -  He offered the newcomer.  -

Yener nodded, but wasn't unaware that that joy was partly a cover. Thus, when they both entered a private premises, he saw it when Cresat's gesture became more serious.

- I warned you not to go, What if something had happened to you? - the commodus reproached him in his native language with visible irritation. - The diplomatic situation has gotten very complicated and we need to take a position, come with me to the embassy and there I will explain the details.

Yes, sir. - Yener nodded, commenting in turn. - I must also tell you something...

Thus,   they went as soon as possible to soil andumlaincer.  A premises that had been ceded to them as a provisional headquarters to establish their diplomatic legation.

- Is this site safe? -  Wanted to know Yener upon entering. -

-We have analyzed the whole place and installed countermeasures and surveillance systems. - Cresat told him. -

          Calmer with that information Yener nodded. His superior invited him to sit in an armchair that immediately measured his vital signs informed that everything was in order. And that was the real one.

-This armchair can make an immediate genetic study of who occupies it. Usual diplomatic precautions. - The commodor explained to him. -

I had no idea things were like that. - The young man admitted. -

-That's why you must listen to me. -He indicated Cresat with condescending tint now, adding. - Your adventure was very risky, even if you hadn't had that mishap. We don't know if we can trust Omega's. In fact, it is the first rule in diplomacy. Never trust anyone. - Sentenced. -

         Yener took a few moments of silence to meditate on it. His superior was right. It could be seen that he was a man of great qualification and experience.

I am sorry that I did not listen to you, sir. Although not quite. - He qualified, claiming. - I think I've been able to get valuable information.

-All in its time. - Repuso Cresat. - Now we have other more urgent and important things to deal with.

           And they set out to do so. Meanwhile, Peter and Kira were summoned by the President of the Council. She also had to explain a few things to them. The boys were greeted in the office without further ado.

- First and foremost. I'm glad you're fine - Lora greeted them as soon as they came in -But there's no time to ask you about that, the political situation has become compromised, as you know Tirelius is here. He has come and expressed his desire to negotiate with our new allies outside the confederation.

- But that would automatically drive him out of it-peter replied stunned. He cannot negotiate outside of us.

- Not necessarily, if they were topics that only concerned the inner space of their world. Anyway, he looked very confident, Lora revealed with his visibly worried countenance. - It's like I'm keeping something up my sleeve. I didn't like the way he said it at all.

Commander Stevens told us that he had been quite moderate. - Kira intervened. -

Lora sighed, and getting up from her armchair took a small step around her office with her hands intertwined behind her back to admit.

That is precisely what worries me the most. When he doesn't use his usual bully and impulsive style, he's scheming something. That he has accepted our explanations so quickly and moved on to something else is a sign that he has something in mind that interests him far more than any incident. The only good thing is that they agreed to negotiate within the Confederation on, and I quote, everyday matters and ordinary matters.

- And what is that supposed to mean? - Asked Peter. -

Well, nothing concrete. - His mother sighed. - It is clear that it reserves the privilege of interpreting the nature of any matter at its convenience.

At least it has agreed to participate in the common negotiations. - Kira intervened. -

Although Lora's gesture was far from showing satisfaction and she certified it when she said so.

With the conditions he set out, I don't know what's better.

- What did you ask for? - He wanted to know Peter whose curiosity had been aroused byscrusting those last words of his mother. - Any other stupidity of his?

- I hope! –His interlocutor sighed to respond with a grave tone. - The command of the military forces ofthe confederation.

-That's like giving him absolute control of  it. -  Peter was shocked  by sentencing. -  Never!

- We cannot acceptthat in any way, Madam  President. -  Kira  agreed,  more surprised if possible than indignada. -

- No, of course we can't and he knows that very well - Lora said adding by way of conjecture. -The other alternative is for Tirelius to try to found his own federation of worlds with the satellite planets he has. Our experts still do not understand how it has not decided to take this step.

- He's ambitious, but he'snot an idiot - he rated Peter with suspicious impartiality. -  Something  must have  hidden.

- That's what I think. - Lora nodded, implying to her son that he was a participant in that same suspicion. –  That's why I'm so concerned about his apparent moderation, he must have a plan, an agenda that we don't know maybe he was about to carry it out when the yumlaincer arrived. That may have meant a delay, but you may think you can take advantage of this new situation. I am convinced that this is why she is so interested in talking to Captain Rant. That is why the position taken by our new allies will be very important. What do you think your friend will do? - He wanted to know in clear allusion to the ambassador of Yumlaiance and the other powers around him. -

- To be honest I have no idea. That's what we were talking about with Commander Graham during the return trip -- Kira replied,  though she added more animatedly.-But  I'm hopeful. That boy seems to have nobility and principios to a very high degree. I don't think it will undo your world's alliance with us.

Just then Pierre entered, the colonel returned after receiving Commander Graham's report on the rescue operation and declared in line with Kira's comment.

- Although Tirelius can be very persuasive when he wantsto .

- Tirelius? - Peter smiled, claiming. - It has the subtlety of a meteorite.

"Don't believe it, son. - Pierre refuted him. - Despite appearances, that man is no fool. He's planning something, the bad thing is we don't know what.

- We'll see- sighed Lora eager to shelve the issue by adding with an unspeathed  retintin  to address the boys.- By the way, you will be formally congratulated by the embassy of Yumlaiance, thank you for having watched over the ambassador and be so kind to give him a "walk" through one of our solar systems. In what will be called an act of diplomatic rapprochement.

- Ride? - Peter was surprised. –

-Officially your adventure on that planet full of dinosaurs has never happened. – Pierreinformed them. – So let me tell you now that we are very proud of how you have solved it. Then, in public, we won't be able to do it.

- You must be exhausted, the best thing will be that for the moment you go to rest. -Lora added in a more relaxed and even maternal way. -

The two of them appreciated those words, they had been wanting to hear them for a while. They therefore obeyed and withdrew greeting and wondering what  turn things would take. Yener for his part was informed by the rear admiral with less "maternal affections" and yes more syncretism.

- The thing is like this, - Cresat explained to him, drawing on the statistics that the information and lighting service had collected. - That guy, Tirelius, is the ruler of the most powerful planet in this part of the galaxy. We estimate that Cassiopeia has fifty-five percent of the military forces of the entire confederation of Omega planets. If we add their satellite planets and other allies this figure would rise to almost seventy-five percent. Or, in other words, three out of every four ships. And they are good ships,thelargest and potential. - Said his superior whose reports were not in doubt.

- But anyway I think our power is still superior. More so if we had the rest of the Omega Confederacy on our side. - Yener conjectured with astonishing certainty in his statement by asking theco-moder  below. - Why would he want to talk to me? Perhaps to make an alliance.

- Most likely, it may even require our support for a possible operation against Omega. Perhaps all he wants is to make sure that we will not intervene in the event that he declares war on the confederation of planets. Or you just want to see what our interests are.

- Well, that's it! - Yener smiled. -We have already signed a mutual cooperation treaty with Omega. And his consul was present,

- You have to be careful, remember that our ships here are not enough to start a conflict and even if we received reinforcements, I do not have to tell you that an interplanetary war is not what we need at the moment. You know who would be on the lookout for something like that...

Cresat warned him by making clear the points about the "i's" of such a thorny issue, it was clear that he did not want even remotely that his protégé took the matter lightly. Since his neighbors in quadrant two were as enigmatic as they were cryptic and hostile to Yumlaiance. And that unsomable relationship was many centuries old. Some even explained it with the stories of the distant past. Others simply went back to the border  conflict that existed almost one hundred and fifty yares  and that elevated the then captain Karem Bount,as  heroine of Yumlaiance. That woman kept an entire fleet of those guys at bay with only a couple of ships. But those times had long since passed. The technology was very outdated in those days and with simple positional tricks and effect something like this could be achieved. Yener had studied it at the academy, just like any officer. Today, however, even the nephralers would have improved their ships and learned from that. Of course, since then a tense peace had lasted to date accompanied by a non-existent relationship. In practice, hardly any words had been crossed with them. Officially at least. And that Nephraler solar system was really cryptic. Not even the best members of the secret and dark services had been able to penetrate the shell of silence and isolation of those guys, let alone infiltrate anyone there. There were only a few rumors. Even the Nataclists were unable to achieve this, and happened to be the best  spies of the Quadruple Alliance. Those types  of Nephraler  seemed to have a supernatural character. It was even said that it was better to have the members of the Brotherhood of Esil to take care of that.

I understand that we must not engage in conflicts so far from home. It would be a bad idea to distract ourselves and divide our forces - The boy commented after such reflection. -

That's right. - He added his superior by throwing up a disturbing question. - And you know better than anyone that these individuals have it sworn to us. I do not know if for things that go back to thousands of yares  or only to a couple of hundred. But what do you think they could do if they think we've weakened?

- I'm the first one who doesn't want something like that. - Yener responded, aware of the thoughts of his hierarchical superior and in turn qualifying with signs of great political wisdom. But we must maintain our firm position. If we let ourselves be overwhelmed or influenced, we would not be at all good compared to the rest of the Quadruple Alliance.

"Well, that's why, first of all, we have to have conversations internally," Cresat explained. - Because if Tirelius raises his proposal to the rest of the worlds of our alliance they might be willing to compromise. And it is not clear whether this negotiation is to be done as a Quadruple Alliance or whether each planet could choose to do it separately.

- What do you think? - He wanted to know the guy. -

-That we would better go all to one. - Cresat ruled, claiming. - From experience I tell you. But, that doesn't mean letting them impose some kind of agreement on us that doesn't suit us.

- And they could force us to do so by urgent vote-- Yener noted alarmed at the possibility that he has notpreviously looked at. -  It would be better if we at least made sure that we share our position with one of the worlds. We would have won the tie-breaker because it is the turn of our presidentand we have the castingvote.  -  He said, outlining in his mind that possibilityafter a quickreflection. –

Thank goodness that in the academy he had had to study basic legislation of the Quadruple Alliance among other subjects. That, coupled with his new position, had made him go over the latest treaties and regulations that were in force.

- That's how I like it, you start to run like a real ambassador--repulsed his veteran interlocutor  nodding approvingly. -

- Well, I think we will have trouble achieving this - Yener predicted with less enthusiasm. -

- Dialectical problems are better now than not an actual conflict afterwards, - cresat advised him, stating. - So before we talk about anything with that one Tirelius, we must be supported by the rest of our allies.

And on that the ambassador could not agree more. So, said and done, Yener immediately took it into contact with the representatives of the rest of the worlds that were partof the Quadruple Alliance. Above  all,  he was interested in obtaining the support of Nataclia's representative because  this was the world thattraditionally opposedYumlaiance's interests.

If I achieve that, Ciloner and Akapler will be a formality. - I thought hopeful. -

The bad news was that time was pressing and he had to try to get a common front to give himthe freedom to negotiate with Tirelius. They had to do it quickly sothatcassiopeia's boss would insist  on seeing Yener dentro of very little. He said thisto his colleagues who agreed to meet quickly and once seated around a conference table Yener, accompanied by Cresat, addressed the rest of the representatives of his alliance.

- Gentlemen, I have gathered you so that, together, we can secure a firm position for the imminent negotiations that we will have to carry out with the representatives of the Omega Confederation and its allies.

- I believed that these negotiations had already culminated in a preliminary agreement - said Representative Cilonerés, a middle-aged woman with brown hair and a robust constitution, who did not seem to be very aware of the situation. -

- They have done so in regards to a simple treaty of friendship with the Omega Confederation that does not contain great premises. The most remarkable is the freedom of movement through the neutral space of its confederation.

And if it is not a nuisance, Ambassador, could you explain to us what is meant by neutral space. - Asked the representative akapler, a tall, thin guy with reddish hair. -

Yener nodded, to respond.

-This space is understood as the common transit zones of all the planets that make up the Confederation of Omega worlds. But the zones that each of them indicate as their own jurisdictional zones are reserved.

-That is, what we understand by the space of planetary influence. - Ciloner's delegate said. -

That's right.  Although perhaps some world that fits in it is not entirely satisfied with the coordinates to which these spaces must be limited. - Yener stated qualifying the issue for all -

- Those are internal affairs between Omega's federation and its planets. They do not affect us. As long as they clearly indicate the areas through which we can or cannot travel. - Nataclia's ambassador replied with indifferent carelessness. -

- The point is that there are noticeable differences between them, if not frictions. - Yener explained to him with a tone between inquisitive and worried that invited deep reflection. - What if an internal war broke out within the confederation? What if one of those worlds that until now integrates it decided to take control and ask for the help of our alliance?

- Haven't we already signed a friendship pact? - Representative Akapler asked in a hesitant way as if that eventuality invoked by the Yumlaincer baffled him. -

"Yumlaiance yes," Yener replied bluntly. - But it is limited to a policy of mutual non-aggression and not in the name of the Quadruple Alliance. And we would not like to sign an aid pact with one side and have our allies sign another with the opposite side. You understand me, right?

- Whatever you wantto do, sign exclusively with the Confederation of Omega oryou'll go to Yumlaiance against it!   - Declared sibilinamente the ambassador nataclier. -

- As the honourable ambassador of Nataclia well knows. - Yener patiently exposed because of course those guys managed to get him out of the way they interpreted things. - A covenant is a covenant and enforces it. But that in no way implies contravening the terms of our alliance.

- Then everything resolved, -  jovialm intervenedbetween the representative Akapler. - In case of conflict the pact of the Quadruple Alliance is above any other.

- I'm afraid it's not that simple- terció Cresat seconding Yener. - Once our agreement is signed if any of the powers attacked omega's confederation, underthe convention, they would be attacking Yumlaiance. It is not that there is a conflict between the two treaties. What there would be is a declaration of war against our world by one of our allies.

All representatives were uncomfortably silent. Nataclia's ambassador was now able to protest with tinges of cold indignation.

- Which brings us back to the point at hand! Yumlaiance has already decided our policy of pacts and alliances for us by putting ourselves before a policy of fait accompli. It is to sign on your terms or expose our Alliance to a rupture.

- May I remind the Ambassador of Nataclia that Yumlaiance now holds the presidency of our alliance. - Yener replied visibly upset as well - as well as being the first to make contact with these worlds, which gives us priority. What would you have liked, if we had not established peaceful contact? Should I read the articles of our common legislation on space contacts?

Fortunately he himself had read them to him shortly before that meeting. Now he hoped that this very determined way of speaking, hoping to show security and firmness, would not take its toll on him for having neglected some clause. He waited a few moments to see the reactions of the rest and gave the impression of having achieved his purpose when,to his relief,  Ciloner's representative spoke in a conciliatory tone, although also with tinges of vindication.

- We are all aware of that legislation. No one is taking away from Yumlaiance the power to ally himself with whomever he sees fit. But neither can their planet in any way limit the freedom of action of others. No matter how much they hold  therotating presidency.

- We don't want to narrow anyone's freedom-- sighed Yener bored already of that recurring conversation. All we are saying is that if all our worlds sign a pact with Omega they will be doing the most logical and convenient thing for the entire Quadruple Alliance. We are not talking about our interests as a single planet, but as part of a whole, and that is what we want them to understand.

-Well, we do not deny Yumlaiance's selves in the field of common policy," commented Nataclia's representative, measuring his words more serenity.

- No one doubts it- cresat was quick to retort squandering kindness. - For that very reason we make them participate in all this, let's say contentious, which is alien to us and we invite them to join us. We ask for your support as allies that you are.

- We trust our allies in Yumlaiance - said Representative Akapler whose world had always beenwell served by Yener's. - And thanks to the delegation of powers of our government we will be willing to sign that pact if as they assure us it is the most beneficial thing for all.

- On Ciloner's part there are no reservations about trusting his goodwill, although we must establish consultation with our government. - Added the representative of this world unwilling to create internal conflicts in their alliance. -

- Of course. Don't worry. It is a judicious and legitimate attitude, as can be expected of  you. -  Yenersaid, adding also to give coba to his other friends. -  And we very much appreciate the trust placed in us by the ambassador of Akapler.

The representative of this planet bowed his head with a smile of thanks. Yener and Cresat also smiled, they hadfollowed what they wanted,  at most the situation would degenerate into a draw if they did not reach at least three quarters of the support. And the tiebreaker, astheyboth knew, was theirs. The  Cilonerese representative certainly saw no advantage in opposing, although given her good relations with  Nataclia she was inclined not to show excessive enthusiasm either. But it was clear that I would not vote against it. And the natacliers... for they would surely refrain on the pretext of their desire to analyze that in more detail. They would not opt  for a no vote knowing that they had lost the vote. So, anda were free to talk to Tirelius with their backs well covered.

Nataclia's representative then declared with his proverbial prudence, fulfilling what Yener had conjectured. - Our world also reserves a deadline to consult our government.

As Cresat and Yener himself had imagined, this wasan obvious way of safeguarding their dignity, so it was appropriate to allow them this gesture. It was precisely time to make concessions, even if it was in front of the gallery, since both ambassadors, the nataclier and the Ciloner knew perfectly well that, with Akapler's vote in favour of the Yumlaincer, there was nothing more to talk about. Possibly they would discuss it to save face and give their approval as well. That was therefore simply a mere formality to save political decorum.

- We understand that you have to report and analyse this whole issue. Do it for as long as you see fit, we are convinced that you will make the best of decisions. - Yener smiled more tone and more relaxed semblance. -

Cresat nodded with approval, apparently that guy was beginning to master diplomatic jargon, talking a lot without saying anything committed. So, that emergency meeting came to an end. Dspying on his contertulios with his best wishes Yener  sighed at ease. Now he hadto take up the command of Cassiopeia  that would arrive in a few  sexdanes, a hard bone as he had heard.

-Well boy. - He was congratulated by the commodus, admitting. - You've handled the situation quite skillfully. -

Thank you very much, sir. - The young man replied. -

It will be true that the monks of kail tenemos  a gift for diplomacy. Even those of us who have made little progress in their disciplines. - Sentenced Cresat. -

           The boy nodded, visibly pleased, said goodbye to his superior who reminded him.

-Go preparing the meeting with that Tirelius. It will be in just a few sexdanes. Lor  that in Omega call three hours. I will attend along with your consul, but I will hardly speak. The general has expressed his desire to meet with you and apparently has a lot of interest in what you are going to tell him.

Very well, sir. - Yener agreed. -

          It would certainly be prepared. But before he went to rest a little in his stays of the diplomatic legation and then to have a drink in the canteen of the central building of the Confederation.

-You may see Larus or some other companion. - Wanted. -

Although I almost forgot it. His former  companions were now his subordinates and it was not very normal for someone of his rank to have a drink with a few simple lieutenants.

It's going to be more difficult than I thought, it's not well seen to fraternize with officers under one's command. -He sighed. -

However, it was by chance that Peter and Kira  were there having a drink after the meeting they had had with the President of the Council and the Chief of Police and saw him arrive.

-Hello- she greeted him who presented in him an optimaland relaxed mood.

- How are you?,- Yener replied by addressing them directly in a fairly good mood for their previous successful meeting. -

- We were doing a break - Peter replied. - In a few hours we will have to return to our obligations.

- How lucky! - Yener smiled. - I've already done it with almost no time to sit down. These agreements between worlds are quite complicated. - Sighed by ordering a drink and adding fun. - It was easier for me to negotiate with those Allosaurs.

- Problems with interstellar politics? - Kira asked him trying to get some interesting answer. -

Yener,  who evidently imagined something like this, did not want to give the impression of being scheming something important and replied jovially.

- None that cannot be remedied.

- We are pleased about that. - Affirmor Peter with sincere intention. -

His contertulio nodded, he perceived that this boy was sincere, he even seemed to be relieved. It was easy to probe. He had no training or gifts in telepathy like Kira and it was very good for him to do so, even if it was superficially, to test the degree of "friendship and confidence" that those two had. At the same time he wanted to find out about something as well and  looking at the uniforms of both of them something caught his attention. Interestingly, it hadn't been noticed before.

-I do not know if you can respond to a curiosity that I have. But why do you have a different color on your uniform? - Wanted to know. -

Indeed, while Peter wore the color blue with shoulder pads, elbow pads, knee pads and white boots, Kira's uniform was orange, although the rest of the protections and shoes were equally white. Yener liked to note the expressions of surprise of bothwho  even looked at each other with visible bewilderment. Not even Kira seemed to have expected that question.

-It depends on the branch in which we have specialized. In my criminalistic case and other exclusives of the police. But Kira is a geologist.  - Peter replied. -

-Yes, the  color of my uniform  denotes the possibility of working on other issues independent of the space police. - She revealed to him. -

          There were also some who wore a green uniform, when they did not fulfill patrol missions or because they were more dedicated to scientific or astronomical studies, they explained.

My sister, for example, wants to pursue a diplomatic career. Although their uniform is like mine, but that is because that service is identified with direct powers of the police force. We can act as intermediaries in conflicts between parties. Whether they are planets or factions within one. - Peter clarified. -

-Very interesting. - Yener commented who, taking advantage of the fact that his interlocutor had mentioned that girl, wanted to know. -

- By the way. Where are your friends? - It's been a while since I've seen them and they usually pass by here. Truth?

- I don't know, they must have gone on patrol. - Right, Peter? - Kira replied that he did know perfectly well. -

That was kind of a game between Yener and her. None would use telepathy anymore since their respective defenses could be closed in band to avoid being probed. And now that, in theory, they were friends andallies,  trying to read each other's thoughts would be like spying on him naked. Or itcould be  even    worse. So they could only be guided by the expressions or tone of their contertulio. Although Peter was not included in that kind of game and  Kira  let  him andumlaincer find out whatwould be going through him in the conventionalway, via word. Omeg's certainlyoblivious to all this had no problem responding.

- Gordon and she have a guard now. And I think it's one of the long ones. I hopeyou won't get  bored. - He finished off without malicious intent. -

But even so Kira perceived that  the psychic shield of Yumlaiance seemed to have weakened. If only for a few very brief moments. Encouraged by that she  decided to try her luck to see what happened.

- I think she and Gordon had stayed for dinner afterwards. - She added to Pe ter's surprised gazewhodidn't know that fact. -

- Wow, there's a lot of camaraderie here, both inside and outside of obligations. I think that is a great thing. - He could say Yener whose face did not seem to reflect any emotion at the same time that he added with little naturalness. - Now andsorry,  I must leave you, I have some issues to attend to.

He walked away slowly and Kira  took the opportunity to whisper to Peter.

- Tirelius, goes to meet with General Tirelius. And it will be right away.

- How do you know? Did you poll him? - Peter asked him that he still didn't understand anything. -

I didn't need to. I had it almost on the surface, if I can define it that way.

True, that thought came up in the boy almost as a blanket to cover the reaction he experienced when Kira told him about the dinner between Gina and Gordon. That was not true. Or at least, nothing she knew from the mouth of any of her other classmates. It was simply a likely thing.

-Unconsciously he has projected that meeting so that he would not see his interest in Gina.

This was told by a perplexed Kira  to Peter and his partner smiled amusedly.

- Wow, so those of Yumlaiance also have their little hearts! - Jokingly declared himself. - I can't believe he noticed my sister that way.

- Well, that's right. And it's amazing how much it's affected him. - The surprised Kira testified. - He hasn't even felt that I could perceive his emotions and the thoughts he had behind him. It was almost as if I sent them all at once instead of having to read them. It seems to me that your sister cares more than she seems willing to admit even to herself.

-And  what if we told  her? - Peter smiled maliciously. -

- Listen to me, it would be better to say absolutely nothing. Poor Gina wouldn't know where to get in.  - Kira commented, repressing a slight smile. -

- I already imagined it, silly. - He winked an accomplice eye him adding between laughs – My sister I don't know. I guess she would be flat on her. But if Gordon found out about it, a good interplanetary war would be waged! Ha, ha!

Kira agreed on that visibly  funny,  although thinking about it better the thing could really be very serious. More than his carefree partner might believe. For everyone's sake, I hoped that things would stay as they are.

I hope that it will not happen that these two coincide with Gina. - Sighed. -

- Is something wrong with you? - Peter wanted to know when he noticed that reaction. -

"No," smiled the girl. - I was just thinking.

-Ya - Commented his partner sketching in turn another smile somewhat more sarcastic when adding. - You always play with that advantage. I'm not able to know what you think.

The young woman overshadowed her face a little and then Peter noticed. He wanted to rush to fix it.

-Well, I meant...

Yes, I know what you meant. I don't need to read your mind. - He cut the young woman with a more saddened tone. Adding already in more conciliatory mode. -  Even if youdon't think I can always read everyone's thoughts. It would be impossible for me to live in peace if I did. Can you imagine being able to listen to all the ideas of all the people around me?  Itwould be horrible! It's not that simple. The person in question must have some telepathic skills or be particularly sensitive. - He explained to his hurried companion -

I'm sorry. Today is the day to screw up – He said with a guilty tone – I should not fear anything. You won't be able to read what I think because I often don't when it comes to letting go of my tongue.

Her partner stirned her head slightly now and after smiling. He wanted to regain a more cordial tinge by adding fun.

That's right. You're completely safe with me.

- Hey! - He exclaimed feigned some indignation. - You don't have to agree with me on that. It's like calling myself a hollow head.

-I give it to you when you have it, ha, ha! - She laughed at adding more joviality. - It will be better that we retire to rest...

And so they did. Saying goodbye until the next day. Kira came to her room and sighed.

Peter doesn't say it with malice. The poor man was slow to realize it, but it hurts me when he tells me something like that.

The truth is that his partner was partly right. Ever since they met at the space academy I had called her a witch. For those hunches that she sometimes had and that she used to get right. Or for being so clairvoyant with the thoughts of others. Although that wasn't always an advantage. From some I could expect amazement, from others, disbelief, many automatically distrusted and quite a few turned away from her, as if they feared that she would be able to access her innermost secrets. He now understood why his parents had always told him not to over-show that. And when thinking about them, they said no without a certain feeling of guilt.

- I have to see them. With so much hustle and bustle for days I don't know about them.

                 The girl's father was a captain of the star police and worked in the central control of navigation. His mother was a member of the diplomatic staff and often traveled to other planets to sign agreements or some other acts on behalf of the presidency. She loved them very much, they had always been very good parents and quite close. Even when the girl wanted to go to Earth to find out things about herself, they never objected.

-They only told me, daughter, first wash yourself a comeir, then you will have time to inquire into your past. They were right. Maybe one day I will travel to the mother planet and look for myself.

               He decided that the next day he would call them. I hoped I could eat with them. Although he realized that they did not reproach him for anything.

-And yet, since I graduated from the academy we have barely seen each other. But they know better than anyone that being a space cop is devoting most of your time to others.  They are the goodest and most generous people I know.

           She was tired, put those thoughts aside and lay down. Although he had a dream, a figure of light spoke to him whispering.

-Trust your new friend. You will have many things to share and many battles to fight together for good.

          Peter also went to rest. Although he still felt bad for having said that to his partner.

The poor woman can't help it. And I had to shut up, sometimes I'm a largemouth. - He recriminated himself. -

Mercedes was really a shy girl  despite everything, maybe not as much as Gina. The best way to describe it would be as discrete. Shedidn't like to brag about her abilities at all and felt self-conscious when someone, well-intentionedly or not, pointed them out to her.

-I myself have been a witness in the academy, when some challenged her to tell them what they were thinking. - He sighed. -

Fortunately the young woman never wanted to fall into that and more often than not she kept a hurried silence. Others just smiled and said that whoever it was, she thought she wouldn't be able to figure out that very thing, and that's what she thought at the time. And of course, by elementary psychology some admitted they were thinking just that! Peter remembered that they met like this, at the beginning of the lastcourse. A guy from that same class stood in front of her at the end of one of the classes. The subject of Mercedes' gifts had transcended some and having knowledge of it, that individual did not hesitate to ask him.

-I bet you're able to know what I'm thinking right now. - He smiled at him. –

-No... well, I'm tired. It's hard to focus on that. - Could she respond by trying to elude that heavy. –

It's not hard. - Insisted that guy, cutting the personal space between the two to get almost a few inches from the girl. -

He  was a tall, burly individual. Peter had heard that  and seeing the rush that was seizing that poor girl intervened addressing that guy.

Hey Waldorf, I may not know what you're thinking, but I'll tell you what she's thinking.

And that rude blonde-haired, square-jawed man focused on him watching him with a defiant gesture to respond in the same way.

- Oh yes, Larans? And what do you think he's thinking?

Peter sighed and with a seemingly conciliatory tone declared.

"Don't put yourself like that, man. Perhaps I'm thinking about reporting harassment to you, and with me here as a witness, I'm rightly supposed  to have a good chance of being created.

Luckily the three were not alone, some more students watched the scene, even one of the teachers, a captain, came towards them. Also Gordon who had left the classroom approached. Waldorf dedicated a furious expression  to Peter,but when he saw his friend and especially the professor arrive, he immediately recovered. He knew that such a complaint could cost him dearly. Not to mention that no one was foolish enough to mess with Gordon Stevens. And I was fully aware  that if I did something to Peter, that guy would do it to him.

"I didn't intend any of that, it was just a joke." -  He told Mercedes who  nodded.

Of course. - Musitó she. - Nothing happens.

And that guy was quick to walk away. Kira then dedicated a grateful look to Peter. He immediately told her.

-Ignore. He's a presumptuous one.

Just then Gordon approached him by asking.

- Is anything wrong? I've seen you chat with that Idiot from Waldorf. Do you want me to give hima prayer on yourpart?

No, nothing happens. We were exchanging some feedback on the previous class. - Smiled Peter. -

"Okay, as long as that is it." -  Replied  his friend shrugging his shoulders, to  add. -  I'm going to look for your sister. She will have finished her class by now.

Then we'll see you. - Peter fired him. –

And Gordon left after waving his head to Kira.

-My little sister is only one  course below me and I have two years older than her - sheis reallyvery smart. - Peter smiled  more than  looking, admiring  that girl with tan skin  and  long mahogany mane that adorned with a purple ribbon on her forehead.

-Your sister Gina Margarite  Anette. -Smiled his interlocutor, watching him attentively with those big black eyes he had. -

Yes, that's what it's called. - He admitted, perplexed, to ask without being able to avoid it. -  I've never introducedit to you. How do youknow?

Kira just smiled once more, she didn't need to answer in word, Peter nodded stating.

-Of course... I forgot you're a witch or something. Truth? But don't worry, I'm not going to be bothering you with silly questions like some do.

I know. - Sentenced the young woman with an affable tone. -

And they started chatting about other things, Peter was pleasantly surprised with her. She was intelligent and kind, quite patient and clearshe was  beautiful. Although he considered her a friend, at least that's what they became during that year and after graduation, when they were lucky enough to be assigned to share a patrol. Interestingly, she, despite being a very good student, showed no interest in taking the patrol commander tests. Peter did and graduated as a lieutenant.  She was solely  alieutenant or ensign who was as that rank was also called. According to what Mercedes told her, she had enlisted in the space police to help people, although she had other passions, such as geology. And I didn't think it was to make a career in interstellar policing. So they got to know each other, she was soon introduced to Gordon and Gina and the four of them formed a very well-behaved group. In this  way,  thanks to the naturalness that everyone showed with her, and, above all, to the good use she made of her gifts, this girl  earned    her total confidence and  later that of her parents.

-Sometimes I think mom and dad force her to go beyond what she should. Although I understand that someone with Kira's abilities is very valuable. I hadn't met anyone like her until we contacted Yener. - The young man meditated. - Well, it's time for a bit of sleep. Tomorrow we will have to be ready in case we are commissioned to do another mission.

          However, after everything that happened on the planet Onis IV I thought that they would most likely be left with a few days off. With that hope he went to sleep.

Yes, tomorrow I could ask for a permit. - He said himself livelier before closing his eyes. -

Yener for his part had already forgotten that conversation with his new friends, although not to belittle it, but rather, because other matters of great importance haunted his head. He had to go to the meeting room because, if he did not remember badly,  Tirelius would be waiting for him and with regret he realized that he was late. The charla with his two friends omegto absorbed him too much time and his other thoughts too. Yener censored himself, couldn't help but think of Gina, imagining her bored, enduring a banal chat at a dinner with that sockpe. Or worse, enjoying the evening in the company of Gordon.

That's not my business, nor my problem. - It was said. - I have much more important matters to deal with.

He also censored himself, making a leader of a foreign power wait was in no way appropriate for an ambassador, but  at the end of the day he was not a career leader and had just been appointed so the others should be patient. Especially that kind of Cassiopeia.

At least I hope so. - I thought the young man was on his way to the conference area where that meeting was planned. -

Although patience was a very scarce commodity among the belongings  that Tirelius had. The restless general had been walking around the room for some time and dropped the occasional comment about his not very specific interlocutor to a hurried Cresat who accompanied him in theroom with the consul ofCassiopeia.

- I have no doubt that your ambassador must be a very busy person to make us wait so long. And especially when I'm not used to being made to wait.

- Surely some unforeseen event has held you back, but do not doubt that it will come soon. - Replied the now smiling commodus wishing to strangle that unconscious unpunctual.  -

- I understand that young people have many  concerns. - The general added in a more conciliatory way, at least in apariencia, because he did not hesitate  to add. - After what I have been told of the journey he had on the planet Onis  IV  to be a born adventurer. What I do not understand is how you allow a high representative of your diplomacy to take such risks.

Cresat didn't know what to answerthat.  But of course that guy shouldn't be underestimated if he already knew the episode on that distant planet. Knowing also that the ambassador andumlaincer had been there. However, he made use of the official version.

"I'm afraid that walk has been rather exaggerated by some  comments." - He stated, asserting. - Our ambassador accepted the kind invitation made to him by omega's space police to attend a routine patrol. Ittook longer than it should have given the patrollers' interest in showing you some solar systems and explaining your day-to-day life.

Of course. - He conceded Tirelius with a half smile, which was more of a tooth show than anything else. - It must have been that. Young people tend to forget about time when they have a nice time. Because your ambassador is really young. Isn't it?

- Oh yes! But he's someone very remarkable. You'll check it out right away, general. - The hurried commodious commodus answered. -

           Tirelius walked once again with his hands behind his back through that room and responded, staring at his consul.

-Surely he must be someone of very good qualities to have ascended so quickly. He will have drive and ambition, and I respect that. Right, señor consul?

Yes, of course, my general. - He was quick to answer this one.  -

Cresat sighed without knowing what else to say to liven up that wait. Even he  was getting nervous, but his extensive experience made him see that his interlocutor was not at all,despite that ostentatious representation,which gave him apabulo to  reflectr.

It is true that this man is complicated and according to the reports I have been given, nothing to be trusted. He is exaggerating his exasperation to gain psychological advantage. And I'm afraid Yener might fall into his trap, feeling guilty for being late. For once I hope that the youth will work the miracle that their brazing will free them from such a thing. We'll see soon.

Forthereason for him, he did not have to bother to look for a new topic of conversation, nor wait for a nanodan    more, puesto that the door of the room opened and with visible relief watched Yener enter through it.

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