UNC025E

**STORIES**

**PREVIOUS**

**ESPAÑOL**

**The reconquest of the ship.**

The day he had left to reach Omega passed without novelty. Gordon was ready to disembark. I had to board the shuttle. He was already sitting in his seat when he saw Celia arrive.

-Hello. - He greeted her with a jovial tone. –

              The girl smiled at him and replied.

"Well, we've finally arrived. Now you will be able to see your family.

-Yes, I have been wanting it for a long time. And you? Do you have someone waiting for you here? - Asked his interlocutor. –

-There is someone, yes. - She admitted. –

              Gordon sighed, on the one hand, he feared it. Even if I had sworn that this girl was interested in him. Perhaps it was his own perception. After all, she was a hostess and making travelers comfortable on the ship and enjoying the trip was part of her mission. They didn't talk much more until they landed. Then Celia said goodbye, with a smiling gesture and a somewhat mysterious tone.

-Until the sight, lieutenant.

-Well, what else would I want! I'm just a lieutenant. - He clarified it. -

I don't think that will last for long. - She sentenced as the boy descended from the shuttle. –

As he went down, he gave her one last look, but he no longer saw her at the door. He assumed that he would have entered to dismiss other passengers. He didn't have much more time to think about it. He heard a voice calling to him. Looking towards the source of this he discovered his companion and subaltern, Ensign Tania Foer.

-Welcome home. - The girl greeted him with a wide smile and visible enthusiasm. -

-Hello Tania. – He replied affably. - What are you doing here?

"I came because your father, Commander Stevens, told me he would arrive today. He will come right away some matters have entertained him.

"Yes, a commander's life is somewhat hectic!" - Gordon laughed. – Well. And how are you? - He was interested. –

-Very good, and better now that he is back. It is an honor for me to share a patrol with a hero of the Confederacy. - The girl declared with clear admiration. –

          Gordon smiled a little sloy. That he called him a hero at every moment is not that it bothered him, but it did embarrass him a little.

"I guess Kira, Peter and I are. But I don't feel that way either, we did what we were supposed to do. - Meditated before answering. – That hero is already past. I'm just a space police officer who wants to rejoin his post.

-You are very modest. - The young woman smiled. –

     Gordon then saw how they transported what was left of Copito. He then asked his contertulia.

"I would like to go see my parents right away. IF I can ask you for a favor, take care that copito is taken to Professor Enius.

-Of course, to order. - Tania hurriedly answered, waving. –

           The hurried boy returned the greeting, although he had not intended that to sound like order. But that little girl was very impulsive and perhaps even idolized him.

"I don't know, I don't think that's good. - It was said. –

         Although he stopped thinking about the subject and left the terminal, straight home to see his mother. Meanwhile Celia disembarked from the shuttle. After checking that Lieutenant Stevens had left. He also saw that companion of his indicating to the robots of the astroport where to take that bundle of metal that had been an android.

-Too bad it was destroyed, it would have been good for us to analyze it. I guess they will repair it right away, it's a very important asset. - He thought. –

         However, that was not among their tasks. What he did was to contact his superiors again.

-Yes, all right. At least we have been able to disembark without problems. No, the Cosmopolitan left us near Omega's orbit and set off for Earth. Should we inform the authorities? Well, I imagined that. Yes, I am afraid that their plans are being executed as they had planned. Anyway, I left them some gifts in case they needed them. Along with the letter I handed to the commander. I don't know if they will be able to figure it out. To order. - And that said, he disconnected away from there. –

       Three days passed, the master teacher in effect, hurried to fix and even improve Copito. Fortunately, the central part of hispositron brain had not been seriously affected. Reconstructing the body was very simple. In fact, he had done it in advance and only had to change the brain nucleus to that new vessel. In this way, an improved Copito was able to embark on a shuttle and depart and go to Earth. Omega sent a message to inform Peter and Kira that they could have another week off.

- It's great! - The boy commented. – As you are already recovered we can do some tourism together.

-Yes, great. - He smiled his contertulia. -

          Kira would have preferred to seek some answers about herself, but she didn't want to compromise her partner in that situation. He decided to relax and enjoy the landscapes and wonders of the old Earth.

"It will take time to have another occasion like this. - It was said. -

That gave Copito time to reach the Cosmopolitan, board it and reach Earth via  shuttle. The android had a fairly quiet journey. Upon disembarking at the terminal, among a large crowd, as usual he protested affirming.

We look like a flock, and this is what they call civilization? What barbarity! What barbarity!

However, he quickly forgot about it, he had the priority of finding his friends. These for their part, exhausted and definitely their vacation had to say goodbye to their friend and host. Professor Weust  accompanied them to the terminal of the astroport...

-You have been very kind to accompany us to Puerto Doppler. - Kira thanked him as they passed through a group of ground military forces who greeted them by paying them honors. –

-It's been a long time since we traveled in the Cosmopolitan. Since we were just cadets, do you remember, Kira? - Peter commented when they were about to get on the shuttle. –

The girl did not have a chance to answer, they heard a familiar voice that imperiously asked them.

- Hey, wait for me, wait for me! What a man, after such a long journey, they leave without waiting for me.

         Looking puzzled at the three of them. At last they recognized their friend. Copito jumped into the arms of Kira who hugged him really happy to see him.

- Copito! – The girl exclaimed. –

        Peter also ran to him, full of joy. After the emotional reunion, the three settled into the shuttle. Copito said.

-According to my wise teacher my new circuits are the best thing that has been done to date. The best.

-We are very happy to see you again. Kira said. –

"Westill  have to live many adventures together." - Added Peter posing an affectionate hand on the android. -

"Let's hope they're not like the last one, Lieutenant. – Replied the questioned. –

           During that conversation, Arnold realized that something wasn't right. The shuttle did not take off. He immediately asked the pilot robot.

- Why don't we go out all at once?

-We have a breakdown. The connections of one of the motors have been melted. Departure will be delayed. - That automaton answered with a metallic voice. –

-We are going to lose the Cosmopolitan. - Peter feared. –

-It's funny, there were never any delays in this service. - Arnold commented with a reflective tone. –

-It could be a new sabotage. - Conjecturing Copito. –

- Why? And for whose benefit? - Kira questioned. –

- Listen friends, since there are inconveniences to go out, let's make a new plan. Leave for the next flight in the next ten days, and we will take advantage of this time to see a few interesting things. - The teacher proposed to them. –

          However, the boys already judged too much the time they had spent on Earth. It may not have been well seen at home. Even though it wasn't his fault. On the other hand, Kira, with a concentrated gesture, as if he were interpreting a kind of premonition, sentenced.

-No professor, we have to reach the Cosmopolitan.

-You have to listen to her teacher, experience has taught me that you always have to listen to Kira. - Peter supported her. –

-You will not arrive on time guys, the time of departure is approaching and we are blocked here.

         Sure enough, that shuttle had limited autonomy. I couldn't follow the Cosmopolitan all over the space. If the large interstellar passenger ship got too far away it would be impossible to reach it.

- Is there no other shuttle? - Peter asked the pilot. –

"I have already asked at the headquarters, Lieutenant, there is none available. - It was the answer. –

          The thing looked bad no doubt Copito wanted to know.

-Tell me. How long can it take to fix those connections?

"About two hours, sir. - The pilot answered. –

- Sir, sir, apparently this young man does not know my abilities! - Copito exclaimed that he assured. – This ship will be able to reach the Cosmopolitan even in mid-flight.

        Although it seemed like a bold affirmation, the boys trusted their friend.

- What do you say, professor? - Peter inquired. –

Not surprisingly, in his capacity as a member of the Earthly governing council, Weust  was the flight commissioner and responsible for allowing or not allowing that takeoff. Although it was a somewhat complicated issue. After thinking about it, Arnold replied.

-The procedure is not usual, but it may be valid. – Resolved at last. –

         And without missing his promise in just a few minutes Copito was able to repair those broken connections. So the shuttle was able to take off. The boys said goodbye to their friend the teacher who was already outside the ship at the foot of the runway waving a hand. At full speed the shuttle went out into sidereal space in search of the Cosmopolitan.

-Listen friend, where are we? - Copito asked the pilot. –

"We have reached maximum speed, sir. We will soon be able to come into contact with the ship. - That automaton answered. –

         He was right, through the windows the boys could see the figure of that huge cruise ship enlarge. Peter ordered that robot.

-Pilot, communicate with the Cosmopolitan. Ask them to open the access locks.

-At your command, sir. - The robot answered, proceeding immediately to the call. - Here ship X-forty-one, we ask for authorization to embark on the Cosmopolitan.

         On the bridge of command of that huge ship, this unusual request was received. One of the officers turned to his superior to ask.

- What do we answer, Commander?

- Yes, I don't want problems. - He replied dryly the interpelado. -

       He was a man in his forties, with a gray-haired, black beard, which he added.

"We have no choice but to authorize you to embark, Captain, but order Generix  to put himself especially at your service.

      In this way the tractor beam was projected allowing the shuttle to enter the gigantic main hangar.

-This ship is huge. Even Yener and many others in her world were impressed. - Kira remembered. –

I would like to know what you are doing now. Well, both he and my sister. - Peter said. –

-We can call Omega right away and try to talk to her and our parents. – Kira proposed. -

       His contertulio nodded. Then his shuttle landed. The boys and Copito disembarked, only to be received by a large android of color between brown and brown with a kind of red G tattooed on the chest that appeared as he guided them.

"My name is Generix  and I have been assigned to your service, gentlemen.

- What are you saying soup cauldron? Why do you think I am here?

- How does it say? - Inquired that android with an unsymicable tone. -

-And on top of that, deaf. - Copito murmured. –

Passing through a busy area the boys noticed some looks from other passengers, a woman told another that she was next to her with a tone of admiration.

-It's them. Don't you recognize them?

They just smiled without commenting. After wandering a little more through the corridors Generix  stopped and an automatic door opened. The robot went on to point to Peter.

"This will be your cabin, I hope you like it, sir. There is another one more comfortable for the lady. On the other side.

-We had booked two adjoining cabins. - Peter qualified him. –

"I don't know anything. - He just answered that android. –

They all passed and Generix  raised a blind so that they could recreate themselves with the view of the space.

"It's all good, thank you, Generix,you can retire.

"Impossible, I'm sorry, sir, I have orders to be permanently at your service. – The robot refused. –

-I thank you very much for this request, but please be kind enough to disappear right now, to disappear, it is an order. - Replied an annoying Peter. –

-The commander waits for dinner. - The android who came out of the cabin at the moment answered. –

       Once the door behind him was closed, the boys looked at each other in amazement. That behavior was not normal. Perhaps it was because they were now celebrities and the captain wanted their safety to be more than guaranteed. Despite all that, it seemed very strange to them.

-I don't like it at all. - Kira declared. –

-The trip has fatigued you, you should rest a little. - He was advised by his partner. –

"No, it's not about that. - The young woman denied, adding. – I perceive something strange, but I don't know what.

-I leave you to Copito, he will take care of you. - Peter said addressing his android friend with complicity to ask. - Right?

"I would very much like to get inside that bag of junk that answers for Generix.- said the questioned. -

"It seems that you have not realized that it is ten times larger than you. Copito. - He was reminded by a funny Peter. –

And it seems that you no longer remember a certain battle between the giant Goldemberg and a server.

        Shortly after those words they heard through the public address system.

"Ladies, gentlemen, we are going through the asteroid belt. Admire the show.

       The boys watched out the window. Indeed, they could see thousands of rocky bodies. They did not fear for their safety since the Cosmopolitan's protective shields were very powerful and that the ship would transit away from the largest asteroids.

"It would not be polit polit to make the captain wait. – Kira commented. –

         Peter nodded, looking at his android friend.

-For me do not bother, I do not need to have dinner. I'll stay here to see if I find out about anything. - Copito declared. –

          So, the boys went to the main dining room of the ship. Upon arrival they discovered several tables with many diners. In one of them was the crew. They approached and an officer with a dark beard and gray hair with gray hair stood up to greet them affously.

- Ah, there are our famous last minute travelers. We are old friends. Welcome, guys! I'm glad you're here. I'm going to introduce you to our officers

        Peter and Kira took their seats while the captain proceeded.

-The chief physician, Professor Bernard. - He pointed to a guy with a face of few friends and a prominent bald head. - Our computer officer Lieutenant Celia. - Alluded to a beautiful young woman with short red hair who wore a provocative evening dress that highlighted her charms and who was sitting to Peter's right. – The... Well. – The captain kept a moment of silence, which seemed somewhat embarrassing when he focused his attention on an empty chair, and went on to continue, alluding to a type of brown hair and beard. – My second, Captain Harold. "Then focusing on a young woman with curly blonde hair who wore a green dress," she said. - Laura, on-board curator. And at his side, the head of navigation, Foster. - He concluded by looking at a red-haired guy holding a cup in his hand who was sitting to Kira's left. –

         After all those introductions, the captain politely kissed Kira's hand. Laura then turned to Peter.

"We would like, Lieutenant, to tell us how they managed to stop that rocket that threatened the Earth. It must have been really exciting.

          Peter had no chance to answer, the band that enlivened the evening played a slow song. The captain asked Kira to dance and Lieutenant Celia did the same to him.

- Do you want us to dance, Lieutenant?

         Of course they both agreed, Kira was dancing with the commander-in-chief of the ship and asked him.

- Who is it to my left, commander?

-Ah yes, it's Foster. An excellent officer, he would already be a ship commander a long time ago if he did not have such a fondness for steepening his elbow. - His interlocutor replied. –

        Meanwhile, Peter listened to his partner tell him.

-This ship is like a desert, there are few nice people, the trip will seem less long if you take care of me a little, lieutenant. - He almost whispered to him bringing his lips closer to the boy's left cheek. -

        That gave the impression of being a direct proposal. Too direct really. Peter felt somewhat violent, but said nothing for education. And it is that that woman stuck to her excessively even if it was a song to dance clutched. And his charms were more than remarkable against the young man's chest. Although a few screams from someone wearing a crew member's uniform caught everyone's attention.

"No, don't leave me alone, can you hear me?" They won't get it. - He snapped at a pair of red androids who followed him. - I will not allow you to do so!

      The boys could hardly see him anymore when he got lost in one of those runners, followed at a distance by those two robots, at the end of the dance, the commander proposed them once they returned to the table.

"You should come and visit me on the bridge tomorrow. Surely they will be interested in seeing the operation of a large ship like this. It has nothing to do with that space flea. Ah! I mean of course his Dragonfly. A real flea compared to this ship. That's not true?

       Kira and Peter crossed glances of strangeness. Although they did not comment on that matter. Who did want to know something was Peter in allusion to the empty place he had on his right.

- Who missed your table tonight, Commander? Only a beautiful woman could afford it, am I wrong?

-He is wrong, indeed. It's our chief mechanic, Captain Walter. I'm afraid he's wrong. I have noted with regret that he is very depressed lately. When the evil of space takes over one.

         And while the commander let go of that rant, the navigator hurried his cup and asked Kira.

- Do We Dance Lieutenant? You can't imagine how  much I would like to do it.

     In other circumstances, Kira might have thought that this guy, in addition to drinking, tried to flirt with her. But neither his tone, nor what I could perceive of him, went in that direction. What's more, I noticed him deeply worried, even frightened. That is why he agreed immediately. Once they were away from the rest, evolving on the track, and despite the smell of alcohol that gave off their breath, the words of that man seemed centered and he muttered to the perplexed girl.

"I wanted to talk to you. I'm glad they came. You and Lieutenant Peter are the only people I trust here. Very strange things happen. I don't know how to explain it to you, all those new officers embarked on Doppler port are valuable people, but, I don't know, they lack warmth, communication. - Listed with a fearful tone. -

-It happens many times captain, that of not getting along with the crew.

      Maybe that's what happened to that guy. And if he spent his life drinking, it was not surprising that others shunned him. Kira believed it might be because of that. Although that man slightly moved his head to nuance.

-Yes, yes, but that's different. Those people give me chills. In addition, the chief mechanic Walter, for example. It seems to me that it is losing its balance. I do not know...

- And the commander? - Kira wanted to know with a skeptical tone but full of interest. –

-I have known him for a long time and suddenly he seems different to me. Maybe I lose my balance too. - Riveted while they kept dancing slowly. -

          Soon they returned to the table and after a few more minutes the dinner concluded. The boys returned to their rooms but not before calling Copito who joined them. Before going to sleep they went for a walk in the park area of the ship. Kira took the opportunity to tell her companion about that conversation she had had with Captain Foster that had not caught her attention as much as those words of the commander who remembered her contertulio.

-He said very clearly the flea of space and then he wanted to disguise. How do you know? What exactly do you know? - The girl who testified wondered aloud. - I find all this very disturbing.

"And you think he was restless?" - Peter asked. –

"No, no, not at all. Despite all my efforts I failed to establish a psychic connection with the commander. - Kira told him what he valued. – As if there were on the one hand a kind of opposition to my attempts.

That's what third-rate telepaths are taught. - Peter recalled. –

"But he is not telepathic. - His partner objected. – And the weirdest thing of all is when I told him that...

She was suddenly silent when she and Peter saw Generix  approaching. The boy ran an arm over her shoulders and commented quietly as they turned their backs on that robot.

-Beware they can capture our conversation.

     The two moved forward quickly and Peter added.

Maybe it's something similar to what happened to you with Yener.

No, in his case I could clearly notice a psychic barrier of spiritual origin so to speak. – He tried to explain Kira. -In this case it is as if I come across something similar to a lagoon.

      His companion was trying to process that when that officer of the dinner, the one who had burst in giving voices crossed paths with them and addressing him questioned him.

- Ah! There's Lieutenant Peter Larans.

-Good morning. - The boy greeted. -

        But that man, with a hostile and suspicious tone, replied.

You want me to believe that you are The Peter Larans of Omega. But it's useless, I don't believe them. They won't convince me, they won't convince me! - Sentenced by moving away quickly to the perplexed gazes of Peter and Kira. –

         The androids following him stopped briefly before them when Peter called them wanting to know.

-Hey. Who is that man?

"Walter, he's sick. – He replied laconically one of those automatons that continued on its way following that guy. –

And crossing with them to come to meet them the ineffable Generix  appeared.

-I think I have already become sleepy. - Peter whispered to Kira who nodded. –

-It's not for nothing, but in this ship there are very strange people. - Copito opined. –

-You are not without reason. - Kira whispered to him. -

      The three of them headed for their rooms. Once inside, safe from Generix'sscrutiny, Kira had an idea. He explained to Copito what he intended and asked him.

- Have you understood it correctly?

-Well, of course I have understood, I am not as clumsy as you think. - Replied the android with annoying tone. –

"Don't be angry, man. - Peter asked him. - Surely this is not the time to be offended.

        They went to rest and the next day, as promised, they accepted the commander's invitation and went to the bridge. As Copito wandered around the area, the boys were led by an officer to the command post. There was the commander who received them with his characteristic kindness inviting himself to sit down.

-Settle as best you can, you will see, right there we have Jupiter, we will pass by it very soon. You see, it's very beautiful. - He told them pointing to the large windows that poetry that area of the ship. –

"I know, Commander, we know this sector well. - Peter replied. –

- Oh, yes, where do I have my head! - His contertulio apologized. –

      The control center of the ship then radiated a call, the communications manager informed the bridge.

-Urgent message, an SOS. Should I broadcast?

-Relay. - Ordered by the commander. –

- Space freighter Yetro,space freighter  Yetro Here space freighter  Yetro  en route to Doppler Port. A rebellion has broken out on board! We are being attacked, by...

        The call for help was cut off. The commander saw Captain Harold approaching. He whispered something to him, the commander nodded and ordered his communications center.

-Transmit, here ship Cosmopolitan. – The commander declared addressing those authors of the SOS. - Captured your message, give us your position and tell us what we can do for you.

Peter and Kira looked at each other surprised and expectant. Then someone answered the commander.

-Here freighter Yetro,we rectify, everything in order on board, we apologize for the previous message. Our radio operator has suddenly gone crazy. It is under the effect of painkillers, I repeat, everything is going well on board. We will cross paths with you in eight minutes. Short.

                 That missed the boys even more if it fit. That was an unusual situation.

-But, what a strange thing. - Admitted the commander in turn. -

-Yes, a curious story. - Peter added with a reflective tone. – What do you think? - He asked his partner. -

               Kira was also thinking about it. Hearing that distress message, I had perceived nothing but genuine concern. Of course, someone unbalanced could have really believed what he was saying. The truth, I didn't know what to believe.

-Freighter Yetro  four minutes, heading not in accordance with the indications received. We deviate four degrees east to avoid it. - One of the navigation operators reported. –

- Do you have any idea, Commander, of what can happen? - Peter asked. –

            The aforementioned shrugged, while they continued to receive navigation reports.

-three minutes forty-five.

Then through the main screen they saw a large ball of light approaching the Cosmopolitan. Being within visual range they observed it in detail, it was a large ship on fire. It must have been the freighter Yetro!

-Commander, what are you waiting for? Something has to be done. - Peter urged him. –

The Cosmopolitan cannot maneuver like the Dragonfly, lieutenant. - His interlocutor replied with a rather dispassionate tone. –

-There are ferries. - Kira intervened. -

-There may be survivors. - Peter reminded him. –

-They would have launched their relief modules. - Replied the commander who added thoughtfully. – That ship can explode from one moment to the next.

        Possibly and as captain in command, their host considered the safety of the Cosmopolitan a priority, but it was impossible for the boys to assume to pass by without even trying to rescue any possible survivors.

Let us go to your aid. - Kira implored him. –

- Yes commander, please. He has to let us go. - Peter asked him in turn. –

       The questioner did not think twice, he immediately communicated with the hangar area.

-Immediately make a shuttle available to Lieutenant Peter Larans. With the necessary crew. - Ordered. –

           The boys didn't lose a second. They ran to the hangars and boarded one of those shuttles that took off immediately. Leaving the Cosmopolitan behind they approached the wrecked ship that continued to burn everywhere. It was really a fireball.

There are no signs of survivors. - Peter found after eye inspection and some sonar sweeps and other surveillance systems. –

-With this hell it is impossible for there to be any. - Kira lamented. –

          Though filled with dismay they had no choice but to surrender to the evidence.

"This is horrible, but how could such a thing have happened?" - Kira wanted to know, asking him out loud. –

-Accident, an accidental explosion. What if not? – His partner conjected. –

         But she wasn't so sure about it. There was something very strange about that whole situation.

-Yes, but that strange message we heard before. - The girl said. –

          Peter nodded, that was very weird, it's true. But they had no evidence of anything other than an unfortunate accident. And it was impossible for them to investigate anything.

"We have to go back, we can't do anything else. – He affirmed. –

          They returned to the ship and after disembarking and going to thank the commander for his kindness, they said goodbye to him.

"I'm sorry, guys, I know you wish you could have done something, but it was a lost cause. - Sentenced the veteran officer. –

         Unfortunately they could only agree with him. Peter, Kira and Copito left walking through some corridors of the ship. They then crossed paths with Foster, who was drunk and barely standing.

"Huh, here are our young people. - They were greeted by that officer. - That, have you already convinced that we live in a strange world? - He asked. –

         None paid the slightest attention to him, self-absorbed as they were in the terrible tragedy they had witnessed. They entered an elevator that closed its doors leaving behind Foster who called them.

- Hey, wait, wait! I wanted to...

      But two robots then appeared leaving him with the word in his mouth. Oblivious to that situation, the boys had locked themselves in Kira's cabin and she commented with a tone taken by the restlessness while Copito watched her and Peter sat resting both hands on his head as if trying to find an explanation for so many strange events.

-All this I don't like at all. And that fire. What a horror!

"You're impressed by the accident, me too, it's natural. - He replied trying to find a meaning to that. –

       However, the girl did not see it as simple. He didn't take long to answer.

-It's not just that, no. Something else happens here. I don't understand that at all. "And addressing the android he asked. - Copito, have you done what I asked of you?

- Of course.

- So what?

-Nothing that I have been able to detect, they have nothing in common with other androids that I have probed. - Answered his contertulio. – These are absolutely impervious to my rays. Like men, therefore...

- So what, Copito? - Kira inquired with perplexity. –

I can't say it precisely, your answers are perhaps more schematic. That's why I have to keep investigating. - Sentenced the android. –

- Where do you want to go for both of you? - Peter wanted to know that he didn't understand anything his friends were discussing, and he told them. – I can't say that I feel unconditional sympathy for Commander Robin, it has changed a lot since our first trip on the Cosmopolitan. Do you remember Kira? He was a very friendly and lively host when we held our graduation party here. But, I may have aged and this is the cause.

-Yes, okay, it's possible. - She conceded who nevertheless did not take long to add while she walked nervously through the room. – But there is more, I repeat, very strange things happen here. And the only Cosmopolitan officer I trust is Foster, though he gets drunk often.

         Peter stood up as if those words had clarified some things for him and declared.

-You are certainly right. Yes, I think he was trying to tell us something just now. Stay here the two. I'll see if I find it and we can figure something out. -He pointed out to his friends, leaving the room. –

          Kira didn't say anything, but she kept thinking that something very mysterious and nothing good was happening. Meanwhile, in the commander's office, he had gathered his trusted officers and commented with an irritated tinge.

-These young people are becoming much more curious every hour, too restless, you have to have them controlled.

-They are very disturbing elements, we should never have allowed them to embark. - Inspector Laura intervened. –

"We couldn't do anything else. Now we must resolve this situation anyway. - The commander asserted. –

-That they be neutralized and matter concluded. - Captain Harold proposed. –

No, they are too well known on board, too famous. – The commander refused, now looking at Lieutenant Celia to address her with disapproval. I remind you that your mission is to keep as close an eye on Lieutenant Peter as possible and it cannot be said that he has successfully fulfilled it so far.

"I'll try to do better, Commander. - He affirmed this with an indifferent tone. –

"As for you, Captain Generix,youmust absolutely prevent all the undesirable initiatives of Lieutenant Kira and her android. – The commander reminded her by adding with a tone of threat that left no room for doubt when he added. - Do it for good whenever possible, if not...

"I will turn that dwarf into a snack, Commander. - Assured him the alluded. –

Do not trust, many have been destroyed by having excessive confidence in themselves. - He was warned by his superior. –

Well, what do we do with Captain Foster? - Harold wanted to know. –

That guy has turned out to be absolutely unbearable. It must be neutralized and soon. - The commander declared. - Okay? Take care of it, Captain Harold. –

He waved, leaving ready to fulfill that task. Peter meanwhile was also looking for that officer. The truth is that he had difficulty going unnoticed. The passengers he came across used to recognize him and ask for holo photos, autographs or look at Omega's hero in shock. But he was determined to find out what was happening. He came to Captain Foster's cabin and licked,but there was no response. Lieutenant  Celia came out of an adjoining cabin, who took him by the arm and wanted to take him from there affirming with a tone between mellow and disgusted.

"You have me very abandoned my dear Lieutenant Peter. And that's not very kind on their part. However, I thought we were already good friends.

        The boy couldn't help but admire the beauty of that woman, although something caught his attention even more. He saw Foster running down the adjacent hallway. Two red security robots followed. The officer thought he was losing them, but two more blocked his way from the opposite direction. Frightened, he turned around trying to flee through another corridor, but two crew members, with weapons in their hands, intercepted him. He fled again until he ended up in a dead end. Trapped, he turned to his pursuers asking with his voice taken out of fear.

- What do you want from me?

-Nothing bad. But you are drunk and do nothing but disturb.  - Captain Harold who led that group replied to him to order him. – Follow me Foster without useless resistance, we want to help you.

- No, no, no! - The frightened officer could say. -

       Peter acted unsycedly, pushing Lieutenant Celia away from his side with a push to come to the aid of that man. Captain Harold was holding him by the lapels as he asked him with an imperious tone.

- Come on, calm down!

       However, Foster was not helpless, he let go of his partner's grip by punching him twice and punched him on the ground. His attacker pounced on him to hit him more. A security robot then intervened holding the assailant and knocking him unconscious. He carried it on his shoulder taking it from there.  When Peter wanted to arrive, he had already moved away.

- Huh! - The young policeman shouted. –

   He arrived to run into a robot and an officer of the ship that were carrying the battered Harold between the two. He couldn't help but ask.

- What happened, officer?

Foster has drunk more than usual, has given a tremendous scandal and has hurt Captain Harold. Nothing serious, don't worry. - He was dispassionately referred to by the guy. -

      Peter watched them walk away with a strange feeling. That had sounded like a loud hubbub. He himself ran and was restless when he questioned that individual. Instead, his response was cold, practically indifferent.

-They have wounded his second in command and scandalized throughout the corridor and it seems that the thing was not with him. - The young man was surprised. –

      Although of course, it could be that this man was of a very cold character or that his superior officer did not like him. There would be many explanations for that.

"And yet, it seems to me that something very strange is happening here. - Peter thought. –

Harold was immediately taken to a room far removed from the common areas of the ship. There the doctor on board was recognizing him, he was using a strange device that looked more like a welder than a scalpel. Commander Robin then arrived and commented.

- What a setback!, it is absolutely necessary that tomorrow morning I will be fine.

-I can not guarantee it, I will have to make several revisions. - The doctor replied without altering himself in the slightest. –

-It is very necessary, professor. - His interlocutor insisted. –

"I promise to do my best, Commander. - He asserted his contertulio. -

      What none of them knew was that Copito was capturing their conversation. The android had managed to infiltrate through some ventilation ducts of the ship and after recognizing that area he found that particular room.

-Very interesting, as my dear teacher would say. - Commented, in allusion to its creator. –

      For his part, Peter had met kira. After informing her of what had happened, the girl agreed with him that this was very rare. They decided to take a walk to look for Foster and take an interest in his condition. However, when crossing a corridor that deviated from the common area they were blocked by a security android who asked them in a bad way.

- What do they want?

-We looked for Captain Foster. - Peter replied. –

-Follow me. - He asked them for that android. –

        The boys looked at each other and decided to obey. That robot actually took them to the medical cabinet, there the doctor informed them.

-Remains in sleep cure. No one can visit you at the moment.

"We just want to see you for a moment. - Kira asked him. –

-Sorry, visits are contraindicated. I cannot authorize them for medical reasons. – They were denied by the doctor. –

         None believed that, but they were not the ones to question a diagnosis. At least I couldn't do it without testing. They had no choice but to thank the information, wish Foster to recover as soon as possible and leave. Already walking through the park of the ship, Peter commented with an incredulous tint.

-A sleep cure for a drunkenness. That is not logical.

           Kira stopped him on his walk to sentence.

"I have already told you several times what I think. Foster has been hidden just like Walter.

           Just at that moment Copito arrived. He and Kira had apparently agreed to meet there beforehand. Peter asked.

- What. Have you discovered anything?

           And the android retorted with his characteristic sarcastic tone.

- Does it say anything? I don't know if it will seem like anything to you, but I will tell you that Captain Harold contains twenty-five thousand circuits and more than two thousand connections. Do you think that's something?

            Both young men looked at him dumbfounded.

- Are you sure? - Kira asked. –

- So, is it a robot? - Peter added. –

Yes, it is a robot, a humanoid rather. And he's not the only one on board this ship. - Copito revealed to them. –

Peter looked back, it seemed to him that they might have company, and motioned to his friends to tone down. Kira said.

-It is what I imagined, only after Mimas, they have perfected their protection systems. And not only that, they now seem much more human in their reactions.

-Fortunately for us, not enough yet. - Peter said who sentenced with concern. – We have to find the real Captain Harold, Foster and the others, if they have not been suppressed.

-But what do they intend?, what is their objective? – Kira wondered. –

-If we find the others, they will tell us. Of course, we can do little alone, in this immense ship. – Peter said that when he noticed the look that Copito directed at him, he rectified. – Well, I mean all three. It would be necessary to find allies.

- What do you suggest? - He wanted to know his partner. –

         He realized that his partner was maturing a plan, but he couldn't read his mind in enough detail. But that wasn't necessary. Peter immediately informed him of his idea.

"Let everyone go   one way to see what can be done," he replied.

        And then he gave details about what they could implement to resolve that situation. So agreed, the three separated to investigate.

Peter got into the loading and storage area. There he saw a technician and asked him, in view of an endless succession of large numbered metal vessels.

- Are they containers?

-Yes, it is the deposit of the material destined to the maintenance of the ship.

           Satisfied by that answer he left, not realizing that he was being followed a short distance away by Lieutenant Celia. For his part, Kira went to a cooling zone. There, equipped with a thick coat and gloves, she listened to the instructions of the head of that area.

-There are only three degrees here. That's why we have to dress everyone with anti-cold materials...

             The truth is that they moved through many sectors of the ship asking endless things. Luckily for them all the technicians and crew cooperated by telling them how much they wanted to know. Surely they assumed that being the guests of the east commander would have authorized them to satisfy their curiosity. Although Kira was also followed at a distance by a safety robot. Copito also continued with his investigations.

-It's interesting, really interesting. - He said to himself. –

           Although he was interrupted by a security robot that questioned him.

- What does it do? That sector is forbidden for visitors.

"Sorry, I didn't know, I beg you to apologize.

He barely finished speaking when Generix  appeared on the other side. That big android turned to his subordinate and pointed at him.

-Leave us sergeant. I will deal with this.

-At your command, Captain Generix.-  Greeted the questioner. -

        Copito took advantage of that to get out of there.

-May you have a good time. - He said as he walked away. –

        He reached the end of the corridor, this gave access to a large fall. The android immediately recognized that.

-This is an anti-gravitational well. Here I go!

She threw herself at him knowing that his fall would be cushioned as it did. An electromagnetic current created by electricity largely nullified gravity and allowed objects and people to fall extremely slowly in order to avoid damage. However, he was not the only one to use it since Generix  launched after him.

- Oh, I get the impression that that damn fat man is following me. - Commented when spotting the head of security. – Ah, it's a step. - He recognized when he saw a hole he got into. –

That led to another anti-gravitational pit that, instead of slowing the fall, raised everything that entered it. Indeed, Generix  followed Copito with a rather clear objective. Although the little android tried to mislead him and went back to his previous itinerary. As he finally left the well, he commented.

"Well, it has already left me alone.

      It was planted before an armored wall that seemed to be equipped with enough security measures.

"Well, what will that be?" - He wondered. – Let's see, it seems to me that there is no door.

Or at least it was invisible to their detection systems. Although he did not have time to take care of it much, since Generix  appeared cutting off the exit.

Curiosity is a very ugly vice. I who esteem his qualities so much would have preferred to avoid the consequences. – He sentenced taking Copito with his two powerful hands and squeezing him. -

"I already realize that you love me very much, but I couldn't squeeze myself a little less. I'd rather he didn't love me so much. I don't think I really deserve it.  - The little android declared with irony. -

       However, seeing that the words did not work, he decided to move on to the deeds, after taking out an articulated arm finished in a large circular saw, Copito proceeded to cut his attacker into two halves. These fell on both sides causing the iron grip to be released to release it. Once he cooled that tool he put it back away while he sentenced with a tone of rejoicing.

-This is the fate that awaits every presumptuous. You'll be fine here, boy.

That said, he threw both halves of the destroyed Generix  down an evacuation hatch. Soon he devoted his attention to that wall and after a few more attempts his perseverance was rewarded by detecting a kind of electric flow behind it.

- Wow, how interesting. - It was said. –

          It didn't take long for him to follow the trail of that until he found that it led him to an area of that wall that had almost nanometric marks. They were the contours of a door. Once located it was not difficult for him to decrypt the opening code. As they entered, some lights came on.

-Just what I supposed. I will immediately call Peter and Kira...

            And he warned the boys of his position by telling them what they had found. It didn't take long for them to come. An hour later, Peter and Kira were sitting at a table in the large dining room. Commander Robin arrived greeting those present, and addressing them, he declared.

-Dear friends, in two days our trip will come to an end. To celebrate this event you are invited to the great masquerade ball that we will give tomorrow night. I count on the presence of all of you at that farewell party.

       His voice was answered with applause as the boys looked at each other in an accomplice way. The next day they re-re-established their steps to go to the place That Copito had discovered. Once in possession of the code, they were cautious and the android, before arriving, told them.

"Wait here for a moment.

    The two obeyed by resting their backs against the wall of the corridor, that hid them from view at the point where it deviated. Copito saw once again that android sergeant who had stopped him yesterday who, seeing him again, addressed him with a warning tone.

"I thought I told him I didn't want to...

      However, the android used his laser beams to cancel it, and after seeing him collapse he replied with derision.

"You shouldn't believe me so obedient, little friend.

      Already with the frank step, Peter and Kira joined him in the race. Copito then opened that door. And the three of them came in dragging the body of that robot sentinel.

-It seems to me that these security androids are not in favor of the enemy, they simply believe that they are the original crew. – Peter commented. –

Your guess is correct, but I couldn't waste time trying to reason with that sack of screws. - Replied Copito nonchalantly to add. – In addition, I have only left it out of circulation in a provisional way, it can be easily repaired.

"That's what I'll take care of. - They heard a male voice affirm. -

          After a while in there, Peter came out. Although as soon as he opened the door he met Lieutenant Celia who was not coming alone and who with a tone full of irony, asked him.

"But lieutenant. How can you abandon me on a night of dancing? Ah, he won't get rid of me so easily. Do as I have commanded you. - She dispassionately indicated to two security androids escorting her to add, now it would be said with genuine regret. - Sorry, Lieutenant.

-I feel it too. - He agreed. –

      And he turned away throwing himself to the ground while Copito, who was after him, struck with two rays of energy to those robots and to the lieutenant. Peter knelt down, lifting the body of that officer in which a multitude of cables and connections could now be seen through the hole that Copito had made with his laser.

"You were lovely Celia, lovely. - Peter told her before leaving her on the floor gently to add loudly. – The road is free, there is no time to lose.

      After half an hour, the party was beginning, the passengers arrived dressed in various costumes. Many of them wore masks of clowns, werewolves, and other motley beings. Commander Robin, presiding over the table, was together with the doctor and the inspector of the ship and commented.

"I don't see Lieutenant Celia or our young Omega policemen, I don't like this at all. By the way, what has become of our unfortunate friend Captain Harold, professor?

-I don't think it will take long to be well. - The questioner answered. –

       As the dancing continued, a woman complained addressing her partner, a guy wearing a werewolf mask.

"Hey, don't squeeze me so much, Mr. Wolf. Leave me, leave me great brute, let me go!

      Apparently that individual did not measur his strength. That woman then grabbed his arm trying to let go, but took with her a piece of cloth and something else... leaving a multitude of connections in sight.

- A robot! – She exclaimed between perplexed and horrified. – But if it's a robot, I've been dancing with a robot. What a horrity, there is my God!

       Two individuals in clown masks took that woman and the robot each, on one side. Peter and Kira observed that without losing detail. They were ready to intervene.

-We must wait for them to be the ones who take the first step. - Peter whispered to his partner who nodded. –

     And it didn't take long for them to do so, two guys in clown masks went to the commander's table. The first of them withdrew it.

-Captain Harold, - He was greeted by Commander Robin. - I am glad you are already here.

-The same thing I say commander. And now let me introduce you to some of my good friends. - He replied jovially this one. –

       And to the amazement of the table and especially the commander, the man next to Harold took off his mask revealing Robin's features.

- Huh! - The one who presided over the table exclaimed, alleging. – He's an imposter, guards, stop this man.

      Upon hearing that command all the individuals wearing werewolf masks went menacingly growling towards their target. But the clown-like guys put them out of service using laser weapons. Kira and Peter approached the table then and she took the floor to address the one who until now had held the command of the Cosmopolitan.

-No commander. If there is any imposter here it is you.

Since it is discovered, it would do well to follow us without resistance to avoid useless evils. - Peter wanted to persuade him. –

       Meanwhile the clowns who were actually the real crew set aside all the remains of fallen robots, a passenger asked puzzledly.

-But hey, what happened?

-Nothing ma'am, they have drunk too much. - one of the crew responded affably. –

          Music and dancing resumed as the fake commander was led out of the party. The real Robin asked the real Captain Harold.

- Did you do my orders?

-Yes commander, do not worry, we are absolute owners of the situation. - He guaranteed him his second-in-command. –

     Reassured by those words he joined Peter and Kira who guarded his false alter ego. They had gone precisely to the commander's cabin and through the windows of this they could see how a shuttle moved away from the Cosmopolitan, it was the impostor who commented in view of that image.

-The news flies. Check it out, the last of ours who leave the ship. We didn't want to do any harm to you men. Otherwise it would have been easy to arm our troops and we have not done so.

"And with the freighter Yetro  what has happened?" - Peter reproached him. -

-A group of excited men wanted to get rid of ours based on explosives, and they saw the results. – He answered his contertulio. –

-And all this, why? Why? - Inquired Kira. –

-We wanted to take over the Cosmopolitan and the Yetro,it was just a test to know if we are ready. If we are equal to you. However, there has been progress and there will be much more to full success. Your victory today does not mean our defeat. – Riveted with a vindictive tone. – Now you know everything, I beg you to leave me alone.

       Those present watched him with a mixture of disbelief and fascination. It was the real Robin who asked him.

"You are detained. Do I have your word to try nothing?

"You have my word that I will not do anything to try to get out of here. Commander Robin. - The robot assured him. –

      The three of them nodded. As strange as it was, they trusted the word of that android. However, as soon as they left they heard an explosion. They quickly walked in. Stunned they only saw a few charred remains of that robot. He had blown himself up!

"If they had wanted to, we would have all flown. - Peter declared. –

       After a respectful silence, it was Commander Robin who took the floor.

"And now guys, let's head to Omega.

- Yes. - Peter sighed, thinking in his own words. – If they had wanted it, we would be dead. And yet, they spared the lives of the entire crew even when they were taken prisoner.

         I could attest to that. When Copito, Peter, and Kira entered that hidden chamber behind that armored door, the first thing they saw when the lights came on was a few cells. Each occupied by a crew member.

- Commander Robin! - Peter exclaimed when he saw that man in the first of them. -

- Is it really you? - That man wanted to know. –

"Yes, fear not, I am not a robot. - Peter assured him who immediately went to Copito. - Can you open them?

- Please. - He replied with sufficiency the alluded to. –

       It was not difficult for him to cut several of those bars with his laser as if they were paper. These cells were not intended to serve as a prison. They were hardly a dungeon for troublemakers. He repeated the operation until he freed all the captives. The boys told them what happened and in turn, Robin told them.

-We were being caught one by one. We didn't suspect anything until it was too late.

- Have they been treated well? I mean, within what fits. - Kira was interested. –

-In that we have no complaint. Every few hours a couple of robot guards come to bring us food and anything else we need.

"If they had wanted to kill us, they could have done it without any effort. - Foster added that he seemed recovered from his drunkenness, although he hurt his head –

- Have you been beaten? - Peter was interested. –

"No, it's the hangover. - The officer smiled faintly affirming. - I'm going to have to rethink the drink thing. If we come out of this one well.

- I hope so. - Said the commander who added with concern. But imposters must not realize that you have rescued us. At least not yet. We are not in a position to deal with them without weapons.

-Then we have to disguise. If we escape without a plan they would discover it immediately and with the robots under their control we would be in inferiority. Above all, as you rightly said, Commander, without weapons. - Peter concluded. –

-There is an armory in sector four. Although it has only a few laser guns. We would need something much more powerful and in greater quantity if we want to succeed. Harold valued. –

-It's better than nothing. - Peter sighed. -

-We could get there, but surely they will have changed the codes. We will have to proceed with great caution. - Captain Harold explained to them, who was also among those released. -

-To that is added that we are also monitored. We must not raise suspicions. - Kira pointed out. –

-Kira, you and I will return to the passenger area. They have to see us there. Copito, you will take care of getting the security codes. When you have them go to the armory and bring all the weapons you can for the commander and his crew. - Peter said. –

           They did so by trying to carefully replace the broken bars so that their sentinels would not suspect much. Fortunately, the robots that served them were the red security robots who were not too insightful. So, the boys returned in time to have dinner in the big room and listen to that invitation given by that false commander to celebrate a masquerade ball. The next day, early, they once again released the prisoners for good. They ran into an android on duty who wanted to stop them, reconvening Copito, he canceled him with his rays, opened the door and between him and his friends they put inside that junk.

-Can be easily repaired. - Copito commented while he was put in the dungeon. -

"That's what I'll take care of. - They heard a male voice affirm that it belonged to Professor Bernard. –

As soon as he repairs it and does our part, we will try to do the same with others to strengthen us. And they will be able to supply the robots that bring us food and other items so that the enemy does not realize that we have fled. - Captain Harold affirmed. –

-Very good. - Peter agreed to address Robin. - Commander, now we have to get out of here and take positions. Select some of your crew and come with us, we must tell you something.

          His contertulio nodded, Peter and Kira informed him of that masquerade ball that was going to be held at dusk according to the schedule of the ship.

I know where we can dress for the occasion. - Inspector Laura who accompanied them stated. –

         To his regret Peter realized that the only officer who had no counterpart among the prisoners was Lieutenant Celia. Surely that android had been introduced by another crew member, but he could not meet it. This was told to Commander Robin in an instant, while they were stealthily going through some maintenance corridors that were impassed.

"We had a hostess, but she stayed at Omega. He handed me his letter of resignation just before I arrived. He said he had a better job.

-Curious. - Peter just commented. –

-Now that he says it, yes. He gave me a key along with that letter. Although it was not the one in his cabin. Maybe it's from a locker.

-We may be interested in taking a look at it. - Opined his contertulio. –

"Something in your letter caught my attention. - Commented the commander trying to remember. - It was precisely about what opened that key. Yes! He commented that it was something satanically interesting and with a capicúa number. That it was a gift in case we needed it. - He remembered with puzzlement. –

        Peter put a hand on his chin, that sounded like it.

-Copito. Does that make any sense? - Wanted to know. –

- And why do you ask me? - Inquired in turn the questioner. –

"Because you are an eminence and you know almost everything. - He was flattered by Kira. –

There are things that are impossible for me to know. Like, for example, the riddles of a human. - Replied the android. –

- That's it! It must be a key. - Peter said he now asked his metallic friend. - Is there a number related to evil?

With Satan, for example, there is the famous six, six, six and the number six one six, which is less known, although both express what is known by the number of the beast. - Declared the android. -

- Of course! - Peter exclaimed but immediately covered his mouth, to add with a measured tone.-  I remember that, when I visited the maintenance area, they had numbered containers. You would have to look for those two numbers and see if this key is able to open any.

          Robin nodded. He immediately went to his second to order him.

Captain Harold, let a couple of our men find out what opens this key. -

-Yes, sir. - He greeted this by going to give instructions to two crew members who knew well the twists and downs of the ship. –

          Meanwhile they continued towards the armory. Indeed the codes were changed and it would be almost impossible to find the new ones. Although once again Copito came to the rescue.

- Good thing they have me! - the android showed off who in just a few minutes was able to find the alphanumeric keys thanks to its very high processing speed.

     Although when opening they were disappointed. The guns were not there.

- Damn it! Those robots must have foreseen that this could happen. - Harold snapped. –

"Maybe it wasn't them. - Kira estimated. –

In any case, we have to wait in hiding to see if my men find anything. Robin said. –

-In the meantime let's look for costumes. - Laura proposed to them. –

       Here they were luckier. They were able to enter the cloakroom area and get hold of uniforms and clown masks that were kept for parties.

-I liked the wolves better, but you can see that those guys have overtaken us. - Foster joked that he was also in the group. -

-Well, now we only have to wait and pray that our men find something that will help us defeat those androids. - The commander affirmed. –

           I guide everyone to a remote area of the ship with hardly any activity agreed in advance as a meeting point with those two crew members. After a patient wait they returned smiling, each carrying a box that gave the impression of regret. No wonder, each of them contained laser guns, magazines and access cards to all security zones.

-I begin to think that this celia was not an ordinary hostess. - Musitó Robin. –

-I hope to find her in Omega so I can thank her. - Peter smiled. –

Now we must prepare to act. There is barely an hour left for the party to start. - Kira reminded them. –

-Well, we will put ourselves in position. Captain Harold, appoint a couple of men to take over the communications and send an SOS, reporting what has happened here, should our attempt fail. Then come with me, we will go to the big room to introduce ourselves to that imposter. – The commander said indicating Peter and Kira. - You cover the entrances, my crew will mingle with the crowd at the party and perform in due course.

      This was done and luckily it was not necessary to send that call for help since everything was a success. That recalled Peter who was now meditating.

We have powerful enemies in the shadows, but we also have unknown allies. Hopefully we can discover each other!

      And wishing to forget about it and rest, he followed Kira and Copito to go to their respective cabins and be able to sleep before reaching Omega.

**ESPAÑOL**

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**STORIES**