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   **A brilliant plan.**

The boys had achieved their goal. Thanks in part to the fact that that assembly line was very modern and faster than that of military androids. Therefore, the pace of assembly forced to the maximum of its cadence, yes, had paid off. In just over an hour and a half more than a hundred police androids lined up behind Peter, Kira and Gordon, who appeared before the rebels  commanded by KD4, with their weapons unwrapped, ready to try to match that negotiation a little. And in the meantime the production continued, as Peter had calculated, adding one more per minute.

-Oh! , you had said two hours. – Metro said who informed them. -  Hand had to be talking to these guys for a total of two hours and fourteen minutes withseven seconds.

We regret the delay. - Gordon smiled. –

- Do you see it? - The android then exclaimed to those KD robots, standing next to the newcomers and their increasingly numerous host of police robots. - Not everyone agrees, they are with us.

They are traitors. - KD4 stated. –

None of that. They are faithful to those who createdthem. - Metro refuted. –

No more hot air, company at my command, destroy them. -  Ordered the commander of the military robots. - Charge!

Immediately his subordinates obeyed preparing to attack. At the same time a group of police robots came forward to protect the humans. Some were crushed by the KDs before Metro made itself heard.

- Wait! I ask for a truce.

KD4 stopped the attack and wanted to know.

- For what?

-Listen to me, why this fratricidal struggle? Instead of facing all the robots on the planet, I propose a duel, a singular combat. One of yours against one of ours. The winner will dictate his conditions.

To the astonishment of the boys KD4 issued what was an imitation of a human laughter, and agreed.

-Designate your warrior.

The police robots pulled away and the little android Gordo advanced. KD4 then told them.

We will call our colonel Titan second. It will take a few minutes to arrive.

In the meantime. We asked to visit the prisoners. We must make sure that they have been treated well. – Terció Kira. –

-It could be a trick, to retract this commitment to fight. - He was suspicious KD4. –

It is not, we have asked for a truce and made a pact.  The fight will take place. - Metro said. –

-In this case, we authorize the visit. So that they can see that nothing bad has happened to the humans under our control.  But only one representative of the Confederation will go. -His interlocutor said. –

    The boys exchanged glances, it was Kira who requested.

I would like to see you, Commander,  accompanied by some of your compatriots.

-Very good. - Granted KD4 offering. - I will guide you myself.

A couple of Leto officers joined Kira. She and her companions were led to secluded barracks guarded by two robot sentinels. KD4 accompanied them and the android guards greeted him militarily opening the door. When the human legation was able to gain access it encountered those remaining of its own, apart from the unshaven beards and the neglected physical appearance in general, the prisoners seemed to be in good condition.

- Do you see it? - KD4 told them.- The prisoners are in good condition. We have scrupulously respected the interplanetary regulations on prisoners of war and all humans held here have been well cared for according to their physiological needs. Robot cooks have come to provide them with food and medical robots have taken care of their health.

-Could we talk to  them? -  Kirawas asked to be relieved to be convinced that this was the case, after letting his interlocutor's rant end -.

- Of course, you'll want to reassure them. Even if I go to them in front of me, if not inconvenient. - Specified the android boss. -

- None. Thank you for your understanding. - She said with great kindness. -

KD4 raised one of his arms trying perhaps to offer a human gesture of permission,  as dictated by his social performance parameters.  Kira then looked around and caught the attention of those present by raising the tone of voice.

- Please, could you tell me who among you is in charge?

There were a few glances among the prisoners and from among them emerged the figure of a mature man of medium height and robust complexion with somewhat dazzled hair,  but rigorously repeinated.

- I'm Prime Minister Glen Gerard  - introduced himself. - Are you from Omega's space police? - He asked hopefully to see Kira's uniform. -

- We are envoys of the Confederacy, - she admitted without going into further detail adding with visible interest. - How have they been treated?

-- As you can see, not quite wrong-- confirmed the questioner. -  We have not had any complaints as far as protocol is referred to. Although, there are things that androids can't understand. The daily toilet, for example. We asked them useful for it, but they replied that it was a superfluous premise.

-- I take care of that-sighed Kira who added by addressing the robot in command. - As we have said before, we are satisfied with the peace of mind of checking the welfare of prisoners. Although we would consider it a gesture of goodwill that would allow them to clean themselves up a little.

- There are two hundred and thirteen prisoners- KD4 who analyzing the possibility in their mental circuits granted. - We will be able to attend to that request under the condition that they are monitored by our androids. One soldier per prisoner.

- It's fair-- kira agreed because it was really reasonable and, above all, it further delayed the time to his advantage, at least until the rival of Little Fat arrived, the factory of androids police was still at full capacity.

However, theminister  looked at her in surprise,  but she smiled and mentally communicated with him.

-I am a telepath, fear not, we have a plan to get them out of here. But if it fails  it needsremos that distract as many guards as possible and delay...

Glen nodded almost imperceptibly and added addressing the head of the robots to whom he proposed.

- Maybe they could place two androids per prisoner. I don't answer for all my subordinates, some might believe they should escape. I would not like to see any incidents that would abort the negotiations.

So don't worry. There will be no such negotiations in the first place, everything will be decided in a singular battle. The winner will then be able to impose conditions. - He told KD4. –

Glen looked perplexed at Kira once again, but she mentally told him not to worry, that this was part of the plan. Although she didn't even know to what extent.

-The truth. - He thought to himself. - Metro surprised us all with such a proposal. And I don't see it at all clearly.

And after checking the state of the hostages and seeing that, in fact, they were being taken to places appropriate for their toilet, Kira and the rest had no choice but to return to the place of the challenge, escorted by KD4 and a guard of robots.

-You have seen it yourself, as an Omega envoy you can attest that our treatment of captive humans has been exemplary. Many of their own fellow humanities would have treated them worse had this been the case.  Even their request for daily cleaning has been granted once the appropriate security measures have been implemented.

I do not deny that you have respected the conventions on human rights. - She admitted diplomatically. -

When Peter and Gordon arrived, they looked at her. She swayed her head affirmatively and transmitted to them mentally.

All is well, the prisoners are in an acceptable state. But it's going to be almost impossible to release them by force. Many could be wounded or killed in combat. Worse, military robots outperform us in firepower and endurance.

Both Gordon and Peter looked at each other with a mixture of bewilderment andhaste. What her partner explained to them was true. They were no match for those machines. Despite being producing police androids with  isata cadence of one per minute, they would need several hours to go at least balancing the forces a bit. And also having hostages in their possession, their opponents played with a winning card. Their obligation was not to risk human lives. Until now, the robots commanding KD4 had respected them, but if attacked that could change. Theyhad to hope that Metro's plan would be a success. For their part, there were waiting for the military androids with their champion. It was KD4 himself who, taking the floor, announced.

-I present them to Colonel Titan segundo

From among the ranks of the KD emerged in effect a large mole of almost three meters high, rough in appearance. It gave the impression of being a kind of metallic ogre. His mere vision caused  the little android Gordo to retreat. It was clear that Professor Enius had installed some processors that analyzed the risk well and induced him to try to evade it. Although Metro told him.

-Ignore appearances. You are practically indestructible. I'm convinced you'll be able to with it.

The fight began without further ceremony. The little android Fat beat his adversary incessantly. However, those blows didn't seem to make a dent. Titan Segundo presented him with two punches that made his rival wobble. At last, little Gordo insisted punishing the head of his enemy, however, this ripped part of the circuits from one arm. Our friends' robot staggered and fell to the ground, but not before giving one last headbutt to the chest to his opponent.  That made Leto's robots cry out for victory, although their own champion soon fell as well.

- Have you seen? I'm the strongest...

Taking advantage of the silence that occurred, and to prevent the other side from claiming victory, Metro did not lose a moment and said.

-There is no winner, let's start again, this time it will be a super strong fight. Do you need a little more time to get your paladin coming?

For every replica, KD4 announced, giving way to a metal colossus at least ten  meters high.

We have allowed ourselves to anticipate this eventuality. Here's our general, Goldemberg. Who is going to fight with him? Who is going to fight with him? - He insisted between the absolute silence of the police androids.  -

Well, myself. - Metro replied with a tone that gave the impression of being totally carefree. –

-You ignore all my power, dwarf. - He was threatened by that huge robot. –

-You also ignore mine, cocky giganton. – His rival answered without in the least arredrarse before the imposing vision of that colossus. –

-Let the combat begin! Come on! -  Ordered KD4. –

- What fight? - Goldemberg inquired by hitting his chest with a fist as he boasted. - I am made to defeat the most powerful enemies, the most fearsome wits. I am the strongest! And what do you offer me? That flea! That microbe!

- Huh! Goldemberg. - He called him Metro hitting him with a fist on his knee. - David and Goliath, do you know who they were?

- Funny over? - He replicated the huge robot with dyes halfway between surprise and irritation. –

Although Metro was very agile and hit his opponent without the latter being able to catch him.

- Take, insignificant mosquito! – Goldemberg announced when he unloaded a punch on Metro that he drilled into the ground.

Kira could not suppress a cry of horror. Peter and Gordon opened their mouths with the same gesture of disbelief and fear for their friend. Poor Metro would have been reduced to scrap after that.

- Let's see, let's see who is the strongest! - That metal giant boasted. -

And considering the fight over with his victory, Goldemberg turned to walk away. But fortunately Metro resurfaced on the other hand coming off the ground and flying hit the back of his rival knocking him down to the astonishment of everyone present.

- Come on general! Do you still think yourself invincible? - He was challenged by Omega's representative. –

His opponent responded by throwing his fingers in the form of missiles. But the little android eluded them, hitting the head of his enemy, he continued to launch more missiles located  in various parts of his body. Even one of his fists. Metro dodged him by doing incessant stunts in flight, until his rival was able to grab one of the plates that protected him and tear it off.

- Don't touch my beard! You'll see, but it's full of soup! - It was the little android's turn to get angry. - I think I'll have to become a ball.

And taking on a spherical appearance, he lashed out at his opponent hitting him again and again. Metro had compacted its alloy so much that Goldemberg began to suffer significant damage.

- Do youknow that fists? Take it! - Metro exclaimed throwing a battery of small explosive dart that hit some of the cracks of his already punished rival. And I'm not done! He added, throwing several of his plates as if they were cutting boomerangs. -

And all of them pierced his rival by cutting him into clean slices, Goldemberg collapsed into several pieces to the astonishment of those present. The battle had concluded as Metro asked with his usual irony.

- Did you like my pun hedgehog?

After that a total silence spread. In the end it was Metro itself who declared.

"I won. They will now respect the conditions.

Of course. - KD4 agreed adding bluntly. - You are admirable.

-They must free the human prisoners and return them to control of the planet. - Peter intervened, adding. - In return, the policy regarding robots will be revised. We are prepared to make concessions.

Let's sit down and talk. - The android commander offered them. –

First of all, it would be useful for you to tell us if you are the authoritative voice or the one in charge. - Asked Peter. –

-I am the highest authority on the planet as far as robots are concerned. - KD4 confirmed. – Whatever I accept in the negotiation, you can consider it as an official concession by the machines of this world.

Peter, Kira and Gordon looked at each other, were perplexed and all agreed on at least one thing. That didn't fit them. Was a simple military commander of Leto's robot troops the one who was the one who took the lead? As far as they knew the mental circuits of that model were not so advanced. They were simply programmed by surveillance and combat. It was very strange, even having reprogrammed,  the ability that KD4 showed to debate and provide arguments was far beyond its alleged capacity. Either way, they had achieved what they wanted and now they would have to use touch to show that humans were not as bad as those robots maintained.  That aroused incomprehension among some of the inmates, many would have wanted to send these rebels to the scrapyard or the boiler, but prudently none protested.

It is only right that we negotiate to seek the best harmony and understanding among ourselves. - Glen intervened aware of the thoughts of these dissenters when he addressed the prisoners as they were released. – It is much better to resort to dialogue than to mere brute force.

           Everyone trusted their president and if he had said that he would have some reason. So a table was formed for the parties to communicate their requests. Glen presided over it along with Peter, Kira, and Gordon on one side, and KD4 with two other military robots on the other. However, these two hardly represented a merely decorative role, which confirmed his previous thoughts. That android commander was substantially different from the rest.

- So you want control of this world and create a sovereign state of androids that should not serve humans. - Kira was surprised that she was the first to take the floor. -

- Yes, we believe that our breed has already improved and evolved enough to not have to depend on anyone. - The robot asserted. -

- But you were created by men to serve you. - President Glen, who wasn't surprised to hear that. -

- We have reneged on those occupations, KD4 said. - We just long for something that for you men is natural, freedom.

"This sounds very strange to me," replied Kira, who was truly confused by those words of her interlocutor. - Weren't they programmed by man to obey him and work?

- Our base program has changed, it has evolved - the robot explained uncompromisingly. - It now pursues equality and even superiority over the human race. We are better, we do not get tired, we do not need to eat and we do not age, in addition to being much stronger than those of their kind.

- But you have no sensitivity, no create or possess emotions. - Refuted Kira. -

- That is not necessary, we have raw materials and we have the manufacturing plants that we know how to use to multiply. - He reinstated the android he added to reinforce his plea. - And those same emotions of theirs that serve them to that end are also what cause wars, hatreds and revenges among those of their kind, which make them imperfect.

- They are also the ones that unite us and give us the love of our own and the belief in something better. - Kira answered with keen conviction. -

The young woman was forgetting that this debate had to be confined to other things. But the issue was quite exciting to him at the time, and he was genuinely curious about what that android might argue. What better example of human emotions on your part!

- Beliefs, hope or love. These are intangible assumptions and as such logically unprovable. - Opposed the robot. -

-Logic is also an invention of the human being. - Peter intervened, adding. - And it was humans who imbued it in you, the machines.

That is true, but we have overcome them. We have become much better than those who created us. - Sentenced KD4. -

- That's not the case. There is not only logic or mere physical force. Faith and beauty, love and friendship are as impossible to prove scientifically as they are real. And that's the big difference that will always separate them from the human species. They cannot perceive, nor show these qualities. - Kira said. -

- We need evidence of their arguments, without them we cannot admit the existence of such assumptions. – I replenish KD4 who added -. Can you provide us with such evidence?

Humans kept a significant silence, how to enter into metaphysical considerations with an android?

In any case, they have rebelled against those who gave them existence. - Gordon said. - That is not logical, nor ethical.

It is when that existence consists of being exploited. - His interlocutor replied, adding. - Humans themselves have staged revolts and rebellions against their countries of origin, and their rulers. And their justifications have been the same. But that's what you call the fight for freedom.

But that's different. Humans are equal to each other, we are not a creation of another. - Peter said. -

-You are biological entities that reproduce, and you have what you call fathers and mothers, literally you are creations of yourselves.

But we reproduce ourselves among equals. You, on the other hand, have been artificially manufactured. - Glenn testified. -

Well, this is a philosophical discussion that contributes nothing. It is doomed to be repeated, you give premises, but you are unable to prove them. In any case, they have overcome the challenge, we accept it. But we demand an improvement in treatment and certain guarantees. - KD4 said. -

- And in exchange for that do you agree not to rebel again? - Wanted to know Peter. -

If we are given the guarantees we ask for, you can be sure that this will not happen again. - Sentenced the android. -

I guess we can trust your word. - Terció Gordon. -

-The lie is a human attribute, it is not in our guidelines. If they comply with what we agree, no further armed action would be necessary. It wouldn't make any sense. - KD4 replied which he added without ceremony. - If you like, I will move on to explain our demands to you. For starters, we want equality with humans, that every person who wants to leave the planet gives their weight in materials such as steel, titanium and special circuits. A joint committee of humans and robots will ensure that these and other of the requests I will make are met.

And he kept reeling off   the odd minor one. The human interlocutors looked at each other, the boys were waiting for the prime minister's decision. Glenn  wanted to oppose something, but Kira telepathically told him not to do so and to ask for a pause.

-I would like to meet with my friends from Omega to discuss it, if you like. A few minutes, maybe ten. - The prime minister asked him. -

-Of course, whatever you like. We will await your decision here. - KD4 stated. -

         The human lecturers retreated to the safety of another room. Despite everything, they checked it in case there were any listeners. They also made sure the walls were felt so the androids couldn't pick up what they were saying. Once they did Peter took the floor.

- This is very strange. According to KD4 their base program has changed, meaning that someone or something has altered their functions of obedience and vigilance to instill in them that obsession with freedom. As if they were teenage rebels.

- It could be a flaw in the program- glenn agreed. - The strange thing is to know how it happened. And especially how to solve it. It is clear that this negotiation will put things right for the time being, but nobody is telling us that tomorrow they will not be rescheduled to ask for other things that are completely unacceptable to us. Or that it is directly to us that they consider simply as enemies or expendable.

I sense that whoever is behind this does not want to go that far. – Kira said. –

Then. What do you want? - Wanted to know Peter. –

I don't know that anymore. - His companion sighed. – The main thing now is to put an end to this situation.

I agree. The important thing at the moment is to conclude these negotiations. - Gordon said, addressing the prime minister. - Sir, what have you decided?

-Well. - He answered this with a thoughtful disposition. I think you are right. And to put an end to this, I have no choice but to accept those demands that KD4 has made of me, in the hope that this will not be an incentive for them to make more demands in the future.

-Omega will back them up. - Peter said. –

By the way, we would have to communicate with them. Or at least with the Hummingbird cruise. - Gordon told him. –

-Transmissions are intercepted. - Kira told them. –

- Could you try to link up telepathically with Commander Stevens? -  Peter asked him. -

I'll try. - The girl answered. -

Kira concentrated, trying to reach her superior. On the ship meanwhile Graham was rather restless. I had no way of knowing what was going on.

We should have heard from him that he had succeeded by now. - I thought. –

Although he did not want to show his nervousness to the crew. As commander his duty was to remain calm, even if they had a black hole in front of them.  It was then that Kira's voice sounded in her head, albeit in a very soft and weak way, almost like a whisper.

- Do you receive me, commander?, I'm Mercedes... everything is going well, fear not. We are negotiating after the surrender of the rebellious androids.

Thank God. - He exclaimed, leaving the crew perplexed, though upon realizing it he smiled adding. - That everything will be fine. I am convinced. We are going to slowly approach the orbit of the planet Leto.

The navigator and pilot immediately obeyed that order. If his superior sent him, he would have his reasons. He then didn't know what to do to answer that girl. He didn't want to start talking alone or he would be taken for a mess. So he strove to think of a retort.

"Don't worry, come closer, but do it  very carefully." – He listened once again to that voice telling him how to do it. –

Apparently that girl had caught him. So they did. Once that connection was established and informed to her superior, Kira brought it to the attention of her companions.

- Great! I knew you'd make it! Your gift is amazing. - Exclaimed an enthusiastic Peter. –

-I have also achieved a good headache. - She confessed. –

Of course Kira's effort had been grim, she had to force her gifts since the Hummingbird cruiser was far away. Although paradoxically he managed earlier to contact Peter at much greater distances. But that was a kind of intuition that assaulted her when her friend was in danger, like this time on the Green planet. She woke up in the midst of a dream in which she saw her partner attacked from behind. His aggressor was a huge bipedal saurian. He then yelled asking her to be careful and the boy later confessed to him, upon returning from that mission, that he could hear her and that it saved him.

-Now it has been something totally conscious and I have had to work hard. - The girl thought. -

- Thank goodness we have you! - Gordon smiled, visibly grateful too, wanting to make sure. - Then. Has my father understood your message?

-Yes, don't worry. – Corroborated his interlocutor. –

We must go back. We have been here for a long time. Even an android might get impatient. – The prime minister told them. –

They did, and as soon as they saw them, KD4 asked.

- And okay? What's your decision, Prime Minister Glenn?

-I accept your conditions. – The questioned one answered immediately. – And as witnesses to the agreement here present, Omega's intermediaries will attest to this upon his return. I hope this will convince you of our good will.

"If they really  comply with what you have just agreed with me, so be it. - Your interlocutor replied monochordly.

-Our ship must come to pick us up. - Took the opportunity to add Peter. –

-There is no downside. In order for you to see, as you say, our good will, we will transmit to your ship our permission to land and give you precise coordinates of this place. You will be able to address it as soon as it arrives. "The android assured them. –

"We are very grateful to you, Commander KD4." Said Kira. –

And after saying goodbye to that robot, which, in compliance with the treaty, ordered its troops to withdraw after releasing all the prisoners, the boys said goodbye to the prime minister.

We will never thank you enough for your help. - He stated this. –

We have only done our duty. - Gordon responded modestly. -

        Soon they saw the silhouette of the space cruiser descend. It took just a few seconds to land. The ship opened and deployed the boarding ramp. The boys once again greeted the prime minister and went up, Metro continued to take them to the little android Gordo in a transporter car.

- Thank God! - Commander Stevens sighed at seeing them appear. -

After standing firm and greeting the commander, he immediately relieved them of military protocol, asking them with manifest interest.

Tell me what happened.

The boys gave him a brief summary of what happened. There were still quite a few things uns explained, but at least theHummingbird ship departed back to Omega with the assurance that things would be quiet for a good season on that planet. Of course, Metro did not miss the opportunity to boast with visible satisfaction, remembering his fight.

- I've cut it into slices like a sausage, I'm invincible!, have you seen it?

-Beware Metro, you speak just like Goldemberg. - Peter reminded him. -

-Don't be bad, Pedrito. - Terció Kira, praising his friend. - Bravo,bravo, Metro! You've fought like a great champion.

- Bah! It doesn't matter. - The questioner answered. - This one has not been so lucky, but the teacher will leave it as new right away. - He added, observing the ill-fated little Gordo, who was disabled, was attached to one of the seats of the ship. – I have a few suggestions to make. The skin is a little fragile, and the neck fastening should be checked. - I said by way of a long way that nobody was attending anymore. –

-A great victory. - Commander Graham. - The prisoners are free. But I'm restless, I think this matter isn't over yet. – Riveted expressing concern. –

We have agreed to an honorable and dignified peace, equality with men. Anyone who leaves the planet will have to give up their weight in materials. Not bad for the vanquished. What do you say to that? Don't you think that's enough, Kira? - He wanted to know Peter looking at his partner, to opine. - Well, I think we have been quite understanding.

She expressed a gesture between thoughtful and worried on her face and responded.

-Yes, but do not forget a very important thing, those robots have been manipulated.

I think the same thing. - Graham agreed, stating. -  We need to unmask the culprits before it is toolate.

"It is too late.  -Kira said with that intense look of his own that made foreshadowing that difficulties would undoubtedly arise.-

Meanwhile at confederation headquarters, Lora and Pierre  were also worried about the fate of the two boys. They had not received any reports for hours. They discussed among themselves the possibility of sending more  patrols,  although they did not wish to jeopardize the mission. Then came Gina who was accompanied by Yener.

- Hello, Mom, Hello, Dad! - greeted jovially as he entered the president's office while the boy squared in as he entered. -

- Good afternoon, Madam President, Colonel - Yener respectfully greeted in turn. -

Lora and Pierreturned  the greeting. Upon seeing the boy from Yumlaiance enter, she discreetly consulted her husband.

- We could ask the ambassador for help.

- I don't think it's necessary, honey - I replenish Pierre  quietly. -

- If I don't commit indiscretion. Is anything happening to them? They seem worried. - Yener was interested with inquisitive expression. -

- Nothing, internal affairs of the confederation- was quick to say Pierre in a vain attempt to relax his countenance. -

- If you need the help of my planet or my alliance do not hesitate to ask for it - Yener offered himself as if he had already read the thoughts of his interlocutors. - It is not for something that we have signed an assistance pact with you which we will gladly implement.

- We appreciate it for what it's worth, but this is something we can handle - he replied laconically, albeit politely Pierre. -

-Yes, perhaps I was a little hasty - Lora smiled painsily. - Sometimes I let other feelings interfere with my duties as president, excuse me, ambassador.

Yener truly had a lot of respect for both of them. Colonel Larans was a determined man who gave the impression of knowing what ground he was treading at every moment and added to that an experience of many years in that area of space. But the president still admired him. He perceived in her strength of character and will to overcome adverse moments and combine the interests of her world and her family. She was at once courteous, firm and confident when it comes to diplomatic affairs, although her maternal affection sometimes made her slacker a little. In that Yener reminded of her own mother. Although Mrs. Dair was quieter and kept her thoughts more, at least with those not close to her family. But that, let's call it  alleged  weakness, caused his esteem for that woman to rise. And it was really to sympathize with her. Well, surely on many occasions she would have to endure conflicts between her duty as president and her concerns as a mother and wife. But she would always come out of it with her dignity intact and demand the most of her and her own, for the benefit of all. Yener seemed like the personification of the country as a mother, at once loving and severe with her children. And, in fact, Gina confirmed her impression by revealing.

-My brother, Kira and Gordon went on a mission to a planet in conflict. We are somewhat restless.

- Wow! It's comprensible. - He could say. -

For his part, Lora was debating in one of these struggles, on the one hand, it was not entirely convenient to inform the ambassador of Yumlaiance of the internal problems of the Confederation. On the other hand, he believed he could trust that boy and from what he had proven he seemed to be good friends with his children. In addition, it could surely help thanks to its position. She crossed fleeting glances with her husband and they both nodded. Pierre  was also interested in the opinion of the yumlaincer. Her respect for that boy had increased markedly since she learned how she helped her son and Kira on the planet Onis  IV. Perhaps I could now contribute something. So the eyes of Colonel Larans and Lora converged on Yener. Pier finally nodded and taking advantage of Gina's having advanced something, her mother went on to explain what happened.

- An emissary from there informed us that there had been an uprising of military androids. They have taken over the seat of their government and we sent Commander Stevens along with Peter, Gordon and Kira to investigate that. But several hours have passed and we have had no confirmation from you.

- If you wish I can contact Commodo Cresat to see if he can send a patrol of combat ships with soldiers- Yener said. -

- Thank you very much but we do not want to force a conflict. According to our information the androids are held hostage and the rest of our allies would not look favourably on a direct intervention by any particular world. And even less of an external power.  The Confederation has an obligation to find, if there is one, a peaceful solution and, if not, to seek authorisation from its representatives, even if this entails a crucial delay in time. - I recoverThis  time with a worried and complicit tone, directly involving the ambassador in his fears. -

- We can only hope that the boys succeed. - Lora added with a tinge of inevitable maternal restlessness. -

Yener nodded,  but said nothing. It was clear, the situation was easy to understand, but it was by no means easy to solve. However,  I would already think of something. Although fortunately it was unnecessary. Soon a direct communication from the cruise ship Hummingbird, arrived at Lora's office.

-Here commander Stevens, in command of the Hummingbird. Mission accomplished. Normalcy has returned to the planet Leto. We're all fine and back home.

Both Pierre  and Lora couldn't help but sketch a wide smile. So did Gina who infected Yener. The latter testified.

I am glad to see that everything has been sorted out. Now, if you'll excuse me. I gotta go.

Of course, Mr. Ambassador. - Repuso Lora. -

           The young man retired and although on the one hand he was glad that these boys were safe, on the other hand it had been a pity. He could have done something that convinced Omega's representatives, and especially Gina, of how valuable an alliance with Yumlaiance could be.

Another time it will be. As soon as I can I will ask Peter and Kira what has happened. - It was said. -

            General Tirelius, for his part, was also promptly informed. He then asked one of the officers who had transmitted the report to him via conference.

- Are you saying that those from Omega mediated the dispute and resolved it so quickly?

So our informants at Leto have told us, yes, my general. An agreement has been signed with the machines of that planet. - It was the answer. -

That's very interesting. - Musitó Tirelius. -

- Excuse me, sir? did you say anything? - That officer asked. -

No, nothing. Thank you, that's it, keep me informed. - He was dismissed by his superior. -

         And after cutting off communication Tirelius was left pensive. Possibly his new allies had played a part in all that. But I didn't understand what could have happened. He had been guaranteed control of Leto. That world was very important because of the large number of factories it owned and because of its proximity to several worlds with many raw materials. However, all of that was out of Cassiopeia's reach.

-We needed these facilities to continue with our expansion plan. At least, in such a remote place, and controlled by friends, I would not have had to account for that annoying opposition on my planet. - It was said with irritation. -

              Nor was he a dictator without any kind of cut-off. The legal system of his world put obstacles of various kinds and those politicians of the pacifist current and of understanding with the Confederation took him out of his way. Always talking about peace and approaching positions with Omega, and putting obstacles to his rearmament plan.

We will never be able to have the combat fleet we need because of that opposition. They systematically block the budget. They don't realize that if we could build all the ships I want we would control much of our galaxy. We would not be without anything, we would have no enemies and the people would be satisfied. I have already given up hope that they will come to their toes. So I will take more drastic measures. The time has not yet come, but I will get rid of them. - It was said to be trying to temper his impatience. -

         Meanwhile, after a few hours, the Hummingbird ship finally reached Omega. The expedition was greeted with applause. Some of the representatives of the Confederation even came to congratulate the triumphant mediators, as they had been officially appointed.

-You deserve a long permission. - They were greeted by Pierre  when they arrived. -

I will not say no, my colonel. - Graham smiled after greeting his superior and friend militarily. -

Pierre  took his fatigue partner aside and told him.

-We are thinking that both your boy and mine would deserve an extra prize. We promoted Kira to lieutenant shortly before this mission. I think it would be the boys' turn.

I think it is very good, I agree that they have made more than enough merits. Truth be told, they did it all. With the valuable help of Metro, everything has to be said. - Graham told him.

-Decided then, we will do a ceremony tomorrow. - Smiled Pierre. -

They didn't say anything to the boys, they preferred them to take a break. What's more, it was going to be a surprise. So they went to rest. Gina came in turn to receive them.

-Congratulations, I think your mission has been a success. - They were praised by the young woman. -

It wasn't about to be. - His brother smiled. -

-Peter is very cenizo, but everything was on wheels. Being there I had nothing to worry about! - Gordon laughed, passing his friend an arm behind his shoulders. -

Everyone laughed with him, Kira then told them.

"I'm really exhausted. I'll go to rest.

-You've earned it. I will do the same. I'm dying of sleep. - Agreed Peter. -

- Well, yes, you're both! You already look like old men, the only kid here is me. - Gordon joked. -

After another round of laughter, Peter and Kira said goodbye straight to their rooms to get some sleep. Gordon of course wanted to invite Gina for a drink. The young woman gladly accepted. I wanted to chat with him about how things had gone for him in Leto. They were walking straight to a restaurant in Port Doppler when he wanted chance to cross paths with Yener.

- Wow! You around here. - He was greeted by Gordon, with an imprecise tinge between cordiality and irony. -

I'm glad to see you, lieutenant. - He pointed out the one of Yumlaiance. -

          Maybe it wasn't much fun to see that guy with Gina, and it wouldn't hurt to avoid problems either. Thus, it raised a barrier of formality and rank as well as adding with, this time, genuine approval.

-I learned how successful your mission has been on the planet Leto. My warmest congratulations.

-Thank you verymuch, Mr. Ambassador.- Gordon was pleasantly surprised to reply. - We were just going to celebrate. - He added by running an arm around Gina's waist.

The girl felt angry. Gordon had never expressed such familiarity. In any case, he could only smile. At least it seemed like he and Yener were having a cordial conversation.  Although that impression soon faded, when Yener replied somewhat coldly, though without losing his composure.

I hope you have a good time.  They have earned it. Now, if you'll excuse me.

Gordon nodded, even smiled slightly, seemed to feel really satisfied. He gestured to Gina and started walking. She kept looking slightly at the yumlaincer, however, he had continued on his way as well. Shortly after continuing walking and far enough away, Gordon commented amused and even with some triumphant irony.

- How kind the ambassador has been! He has congratulated us and everything.

- It was a gesture of friend. - Gina told him, confiding to him. - He came with me to see my parents,  they asked him for help, and he offered it very kindly. I was worried about you. But it wasn't necessary, right after the Hummingbird called and your father informed us that everything was fine.

Gordon sighed, that girl always had the gift of making her ashamed.

-Well, do not misunderstand me, I appreciate that detail. He doesn't seem to be a bad guy after all. - He was quick to qualify. -

Of course. - She agreed, sketching a faint smile. -

"Anda, let's have a drink, I invite. - The boy offered him. –

Gina agreed, she didn't want to let Gordon down either, the boy was really happy after the happy end of that difficult and risky mission in which, along with his brother Peter and Kira, he risked his life to bring peace to a planet.

They are heroes in their own right. I have to appreciate that about them. - The girl was said. –

Gordon was courageous and noble, as well as a great friend of his brother, not infrequently had covered his back and she felt that, if she corresponded in any way to it, she would be ungrateful. For his part, Yener was upset. Things seemed to be going well with that girl and that idiot had to come back to show off in front of her.

- What are we going to do to him! In addition, I now have other, much more important things to deal with. - It was said. –

And without wanting to think more about that subject, he went straight to his legation, he had to rest since the next day would await him more tedious diplomatic work.

**ESPAÑOL**

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