CHAPTER 5 GALACTIC PORTALS, HACKERS AND ROCK STARS

It was around two in the afternoon when I was in the bathroom, immersed in the simple act of washing my hands at the prestigious Zenith space station. Suddenly, a wave of energy, not the typical psionic or psychic one, but one of electronic origin, unleashed its fury on my right side, materializing a transporter portal. And guess who decided to show up? Max, Rodrick 's intrepid colleague , who, by the way, shared classrooms with my younger brother at the Galactic University of Computer Sciences (UGCC).

There he was, Max Cypher , the skilled hacker who delves deep into the security networks of corrupt corporations and governments to uncover their secrets and sabotage their Machiavellian plans. With him, my investigations become less of a maze and more of a walk in the park. He is a genius at his art, a virtuoso of computational manipulation.

—What brings you here, Max?— I asked, my curiosity in motion. Opening transport portals was a daily occurrence for him; his ability to enter unimaginable places was one of his most notable characteristics.

—I knew I'd find you here,— he replied with his typical aplomb, taking my arm and dragging me towards the doorway.

—But... —I protested, aware of my commitments— I have a meeting.

—Don't worry,— he assured me with a sly smile. —I've put off that meeting for you. The arrangements have already been made. Let's move forward to the fame and glory that awaits us.

With a push, he launched me into the portal and joined me on the journey. Soon, we found ourselves on Zarion , a world where the atmosphere is breathable and the climate is temperate and home to a diverse and cosmopolitan population, made up of a variety of species and cultures.

Zarion 's economy is based on the exchange of goods and services, moving freely between the legal and the illegal. Its government, a federation of corporations in constant struggle for market dominance, sets the tone in this world of intrigue and ruthless competition. But what truly makes this planet shine are its commercial zones, authentic consumer

paradises where everything from the most basic to the most luxurious and exotic is displayed and negotiated without rest.

Walking through the bustling streets of Zarion , one could find all kinds of establishments, from street markets where merchants hawked to attract passersby, to imposing shopping malls glowing with neon lights. Shop windows displayed everything from the latest intergalactic technology to works of art from far-off worlds, each object telling a unique story of provenance and purpose.

—This place never ceases to amaze me, — I commented, observing the hustle and bustle around us.

—That's why we're here, my friend, — Max replied, his eyes shining with excitement. —There's something special in the air, a sense of limitless possibilities.

On Zarion, anything seemed possible. From clandestine businesses that thrived in the shadows to strategic alliances forged in the most unexpected meetings, the planet offered endless opportunities for those who knew how to navigate its complex web of power and commerce.

As Max and I made our way deeper into the heart of this vibrant metropolis, I felt a growing excitement about what we could discover and accomplish here. I knew that anything could happen in such a dynamic and unpredictable place, and I was ready to seize every opportunity that presented itself.

Here, in this melting pot of species and cultures from countless universes, we came to an office. Time was different in this corner of the cosmos; while elsewhere it was midday, here it was night. The man behind the desk, surrounded by opulence and elegance, turned his chair to face us.

—¡They're finally here!— he exclaimed in a mocking but joyful tone at the same time.

Intrigued and somewhat annoyed by the confusion, I asked what was going on, only to be urged by Max to sit down and listen to the explanation. With the

Promised a quicker way out of this mess, I reluctantly agreed, aware of the many responsibilities that awaited me outside: meetings with delegates, governors, and the administration of an entire imperial planet.

—My friend, you will become a legend, a force that will help us gain the power necessary to overthrow corrupt organizations in this region and beyond in the universe— Max announced with a look full of determination.

—Don't forget that I'm already a well-known figure, I hold the highest rank in the space militia. I was granted the privilege of creating an orbital station in the form of a technological and hybrid planet. Now, if you don't mind, could you open that portal again? I have urgent matters to attend to— I answered, pressed by my obligations and eager to escape from this situation as soon as possible.

Nothing of the sort – Max replied – we need you, we need your voice, you will be a famous singer, you will have a band and with that we will be able to get anywhere without problems.

Zyron 's proposal Star, I found myself in a dilemma that rivaled any space battle I had ever faced in my career.

as Imperial leader. I opened my eyes as wide as possible, the echo of my father's words resonating in my mind, anticipating the storm that would break out if he found out about my activities. The thought of facing his scolding and reproaches was enough to make me reconsider the whole matter.

—No, — I exclaimed, trying to clear my mind of those worries. —I am an Imperial, leader of the Imperials. If I am involved in scandals, what will become of the reputation of our army? The military council would soon dismiss me. You know that such behavior is not permitted for us.

Max nodded, understanding my reservations, but not willing to give up on his plan so easily. —I know, — he replied calmly. —But remember, my dear friend, that you possess the ability to create realistic illusions. You can transform your appearance, change your clothing, even your physique. What could possibly go wrong?

My mind drifted back to my younger days, when music flowed as naturally as my breathing. —That was a long time ago, — I murmured, remembering those moments with nostalgia.

—Talent doesn't go away— Max insisted—It's like riding a jet skate. You may not have used it in years, but the skill remains.

I knew I was right. Max and Zyron weren't going to let me out of this situation easily. The tension in the air was palpable as I searched for a way out that, deep down, I knew I wouldn't find.

—¿You won't let me out of here until I agree, right? —I asked, resigned to my fate, with a mixture of frustration and resignation in my voice.

—You're not wrong, — Max replied, a mischievous smile curling his lips. —You're the key to our crusade. Zyron here is a master in his field: a galactic-renowned producer and manager. He's worked with the most successful artists in the galaxy, and he firmly believes that you have the potential to become one of them.

—Nice to meet you, Mr. Zyron Star, — I said politely, although my mind was already racing, searching for a way out, any loophole I could exploit to escape from this trap subtly woven around me. However, my hopes were dashed when Max, in a triumphant tone, announced that he had secured the entire perimeter, even with an anti-psionic barrier that blocked any possibility of evasion, leaving me literally trapped.

I frowned, feeling annoyance rising within me. While I understood Max's intentions and his desire to involve me in his grand scheme, my responsibilities as Imperial leader took priority. Being abruptly removed from my surroundings, without warning or regard for my duties, did not sit well with me. My mind, always focused on my tasks and obligations, struggled to accept such a drastic and unforeseen change of plans.

—Max, I understand what you're trying to do, but I can't afford these detours right now, — I said, my tone more stern than I intended. —My position doesn't allow me the luxury of personal adventures or projects. Not when there are so many lives under my responsibility.

Max looked at me seriously for a moment, but the mischievous spark didn't disappear from his eyes.

—I know, and that's precisely why you're so important. But believe me, once you see the scope of what we're proposing, you'll understand that this isn't just a detour, but an opportunity... one you might regret not taking advantage of.

Resigned, I finally gave in to the pressure. —Fine, ¿what do you want me to do then? — I asked, crossing my arms and legs in a gesture of frustration. But then, a thought crossed my mind: what about the tracking chip my father implanted in me as a child? If I managed to activate it, it could reveal my location and ruin the entire plan.

—Wait a minute, Max, — I interrupted before he could continue his explanation. —What about the tracking chip I have in my body? ¿Couldn't they locate me through it?

Max seemed to anticipate my concern. —Of course I took that into account. I deactivated the chip as soon as I touched your arm before entering the transporter portal. Your father won't know where you are for quite some time.

I sighed in relief, though I knew my father wouldn't stay quiet for long without knowing my whereabouts. —That'll drive him crazy, — I commented with a wry smile. —I hope you can deal with him after all this, Max. After all, if you dragged me away against my will, I hope you're here to face his fury alongside me.

Max nodded in resignation, aware of the gathering storm. He had witnessed my father's wrath on previous occasions when we were children and I got into trouble.

—Now, let me explain our plan, — Max said, changing the subject. —You're going to become a pop star. ¿Remember that notebook of poems and songs you used to have at school?

I had completely forgotten about that notebook. I carried it with me all the time when I was in school, but once I entered college, I stopped carrying it with me.

I was to concentrate on my studies to obtain my diploma in Space Psychoalchemy, a discipline that deals with the transformation of the mind and spirit through mental, esoteric and scientific techniques. As part of my studies, I was to reside on an orbital station for five years, where everything from sleeping to studying occurred within its confines. During that time, I was separated from my family, including my parents and siblings, who were also immersed in their own studies.

I tried to remember where I had kept that notebook, keeping it out of the sight of my family. Until, finally, the image of its forgotten location appeared in my mind.

—Yes, I remember where I put it,— I whispered, hoping it was still there and in good condition. —We'll have to go find it if you want us to use it.

Zyron Star looked at me curiously. —Where did you leave it? — she asked, hoping for an answer that could guide our actions.

I looked at him thoughtfully. —I left it in Solara, — I confessed, knowing that my answer would probably cause confusion and concern among my companions. After all, Solara had been in the past for years, and I had had no contact with the place since.

—¿What do you mean, you left Solara ?— Max exclaimed, his tone full of urgency and desperation. —If you haven't lived there for years, you'll have to start over. I hope your mind is lucid and creative enough for that.

I felt ashamed of my carelessness, but I tried to justify myself. —I didn't think I would ever need it. Besides, I didn't want to cause problems with my family. You know how they get, — I apologized, feeling the weight of my responsibility for not having properly taken care of something so important to me. —Let's go, that planet is over there at the edge of the universe, let me locate the number degrees of that address, — said Max, pressing the buttons on his portal transporter device.

After finding my precious notebook in perfect condition, we returned to the planet Zarion where Zyron was located. Star, eager for the success of our mission, impatiently asked if we had found it.

—Yes, we found it— Max replied, showing him the notebook and passing it to me. —Now I want you to find the catchiest song or poem that will be useful for our mission— I nodded with determination— okay, let me call the Zenith space station to inform them that I'm okay. Unless you want me to trigger a massive search by the Imperials and the Galactic fleet, and believe me, when they find us, I won't be able to help you and you two will be in trouble.

Zyron agreed. —You're right. Let me call them, so we don't arouse suspicion or face additional problems.

Max started to dial the number, but before he could complete the call, he asked, —What are you going to tell them now? — I took a moment to think, then replied with a mischievous grin, —I'll tell them that a transporter portal opened in the bathroom and that some madman threw me through it. I'll claim that I don't know him.

Zyron burst out laughing, his laughter echoing through the room. —I like this guy. He obviously knows you well, Max.

Max, though he smiled, looked at me with a look full of fury. —¡What a good joke, you clown! — he exclaimed sarcastically. —Now, let me think about what you will tell your family.

After the exchange of pleasantries, I turned to Max and Zyron with a smile. —Well, it seems I'll have to come up with something convincing for my family.

Max nodded, though his expression still held a slight tension. —It's important that you don't arouse suspicion. We need everything to go according to plan.

—Exactly— Zyron agreed, his expression more relaxed—Our mission depends on keeping this secret.

I nodded, aware of the importance of discretion in our plan. —Got it. I'll tell them I had a little mishap, but everything is under control.

Max seemed satisfied with my answer. —Fine, that should do the trick. But make sure to keep us informed of any developments.

—Of course, — I replied with determination. —Now, let's get to work with this notebook. We need to find the perfect song for our mission.

Zyron and Max nodded, and together we delved into the contents of the notebook, searching for inspiration for our next step.

With my nerves on edge, I entered the special room that Zyron Star had prepared for us. I looked around, impressed by the amount of musical equipment that filled the room: microphones, keyboards, instruments of all kinds and a pair of headphones that indicated I was ready to go.

Over the intercom, Max gave me clear instructions: —I'll turn on the music. Start singing now.

I nodded, trying to control my racing heartbeat. I took a deep breath and prepared to begin. With the notebook in hand, I began to read the lyrics of the song we had chosen. My lips trembled slightly at first, but then I let the melody and words flow through me.

With each note, I tried to convey the emotion and passion behind the lyrics. Even though it had been years since I had last sung, I gave myself over completely to the moment, hoping that my voice could live up to expectations.

¿Would this song be living up to Max and Zyron Star's expectations? ¿Could this song really lead us to success in our mission? I finished the song with a sigh of relief, hoping that my performance had been enough. Now, all that was left to do was wait for my fellow performers' reaction on the other end of the intercom.

After I finished singing, I waited in silence, my heart pounding in my chest, as I waited for any sign from Max and Zyron. Star. The tension in the air was palpable, and I could barely contain my nervousness as I awaited her verdict.

It was a few eternal moments before I heard Max's voice over the intercom. —¡Amazing! ¡That was amazing! — he exclaimed, his excitement clearly ringing through his words. —¡You have an incredible talent!

A sigh of relief escaped my lips upon hearing those words of praise. I was overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude, knowing that my efforts had paid off. —Thank you, — I replied, feeling a surge of happiness and relief flood through my being.

Zyron Star also expressed his satisfaction. —I'm impressed. That song will definitely take us far in our mission. You're a real talent.

A proud smile formed on my face as I took in his words. It was a moment of triumph, one I would remember for a long time.

With renewed determination, I prepared for the next steps of our plan. I knew we had a lot of work ahead of us, but with the talent and determination of our team, we were ready to face any challenge that stood in our way to success.

I had been able to change my physique and image without any problems, making sure that I would not be recognized by the rest of the people. After all, my face as Imperial leader was registered in every station and in every space headquarters. With this precaution, we arrived at Lunaris , the advanced and civilized lunar station that spread across several craters. We entered its intricate network of tunnels, domes and platforms, with Zyron Star leading the way thanks to his influential friend at the station. This friend would provide us with the invaluable opportunity to enter a singing competition, an opportunity that could mark the beginning of my rise among today's most recognized artists.

Guided by Zyron , we headed towards the venue where the competition would be held. As we approached, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. This would be my chance to showcase my talent in front of an unknown audience, hoping to gain their support and recognition.

Once inside the venue, we met Zyron 's friend, who welcomed us with enthusiasm and provided us with all the details about the competition. We quickly signed up, and soon I found myself on stage, ready to give it my all.

The atmosphere was charged with energy as I began to sing. I let the music flow through me, concentrating on conveying every emotion and every word of the song. Time seemed to stop as I immersed myself in the melody, focused on giving my best.

At the end of my performance, the audience erupted in applause and cheers, and I felt a surge of satisfaction and relief. I had given it my best shot and hoped that my effort would be enough to impress the judges and the audience.

Now, all that was left was to wait for the results and see if my performance had been enough to earn me a place among the most prominent singers of Lunaris and, hopefully, open the doors to new opportunities in my musical career. An hour later, the long-awaited moment arrived: the announcement of the winner. The tension in the air was palpable as we anxiously awaited the results. They started from third place and worked their way up to first place, with Max showing palpable anxiety, Zyron Star is full of euphoria waiting for the result, and I am trying to stay calm and not look too anxious.

Finally, the decisive moment arrived. With a knot in my stomach, I listened intently as they announced the first place. And then, to my shock and disbelief, my name was announced as the winner. I couldn't believe it. It was an overwhelming feeling, a moment that took my breath away.

Even though I had placed first in the competition, I still had a hard time believing what was happening. Had I really won? Was this really happiness? As the reality of my victory began to sink in, I was overwhelmed with a mix of excitement, disbelief, and gratitude. This was a moment I would never forget, a milestone on my path to success as an artist.

Of course, the name they announced was not my own. At that point, we had to improvise a stage name: Sirius Starlight. With this new alias, my music career took off and Zyron Star became my mentor and manager.

With the momentum of our victory in the singing competition, Zyron began to move into the music world with determination. He created an artistic schedule packed with concerts, events and recording sessions. However, we knew that achieving our larger goals would take time.

Our true purpose went beyond fame and success in music. We had a plan to bring to justice certain corrupt companies that trafficked in people and drugs. This was our ultimate goal, and we were willing to put all our effort and dedication into achieving it.

As we immersed ourselves in the music world, we also worked secretly to gather the necessary information and map out our plan to expose the truth and hold those responsible accountable. We knew it wouldn't be easy, but we were determined to see it through, not just for ourselves, but for all the victims of these heinous crimes.

Definitely being in charge as the imperial sumo and at the same time leading a career as a singer with responsibilities and obligations of a completely different person is exhausting. Combining both roles involves a delicate balance between two very different worlds, each with its own demands and challenges.

On the one hand, as Imperial High Command, you are responsible for leading your people, making important decisions, and ensuring that your space station thrives and is protected. This comes with a considerable workload and the need to always be on the alert for any threats or situations that may arise.

On the other hand, as a singer, you must commit to your art, hone your talent and fulfill your professional commitments in the music industry. This involves rehearsals, recordings, live performances and a hectic schedule that demands time and energy.

Balancing these two facets of your life can be physically and emotionally exhausting. It requires efficient time management, the ability to stay focused on multiple tasks, and above all, a great deal of determination and passion for both areas of your life.

It's important to remember to take care of yourself and seek out moments of rest and relaxation whenever possible. Facing these responsibilities can be challenging, but it's also rewarding to know that you're contributing meaningfully in both the political and artistic realms.

It had already been two years working undercover as Sirius Starlight.

Max came into my dressing room and brought me out of my thoughts with his energetic voice.

—¿Ready for the concert? — he asked, with his characteristic smile.

—That's right, — I replied with determination. —How many have we had this month?

—We've done six in total, — Max reported, as he looked through some papers.

—Ten, — I corrected, surprised. I hadn't realized we'd made so many.

—Well, it's time for you to get ready, — Max said, turning to me. —There's still an hour until you can start singing, and you need to change your physical appearance.

I nodded confidently. —Don't worry, I've already planned everything, — I replied as I mentally reviewed Sirius' appearance.

Max looked at me curiously. —Have you already thought about how you will introduce yourself as Sirius today?

—Of course, — I said with a smile. —Sirius is a young man, with short, straight hair in shades of black and brown. His eyes are blue, and his face has an intelligent and friendly expression. He will be dressed in casual, comfortable clothing, as always.

Max nodded approvingly. —Sounds good. I'm sure you'll make a splash once again.

With a grateful smile, I stood up and headed towards the dressing area to prepare for the concert. I was ready to take on the role of Sirius Starlight and leave an indelible mark on the stage once again.

The stage was full of energy when Zyron Star and I headed over to him. We rode up the elevator, ready to start the show with a burst of fireworks. The excitement was palpable in the air as I prepared to interact with the audience and give the concert my best shot.

Everything was going according to plan until, thirty minutes later, a deafening boom shook the place. The sound of the explosion echoed in my ears, leaving me dazed and unbalanced. My abilities and powers, linked to vibration, depended greatly on the sensitivity of my ears, and the impact of the explosion affected me deeply.

I stumbled and fell to my knees, struggling to stay upright as I watched people frantically run around the stage. Amidst the chaos, Zyron and Max appeared beside me. Zyron seemed to be talking to someone, but the ringing in my ears prevented me from hearing clearly.

Max came over to me and took me by the arms, leading me off the stage amidst the confusion and commotion. Although I was dazed and disoriented, I trusted Max to get me to safety while we tried to understand what was happening and how we could protect ourselves.

In the midst of the confusion and commotion, Max led me to a safe place, a dark cellar of sorts where we could recover from the shock of the explosion. He knew my power and its challenges, and he knew how to help me find balance when my energy was destabilized. Few knew the true source of my power: the Ætheris Gem, an ancient relic that granted me abilities related to vibration and tones, but which could also trigger a dangerous imbalance in my being if activated uncontrolled.

Max dropped me off at a seat and hurried off to find a switch to turn on the light. Meanwhile, Zyron entered the cellar, and I could hear them talking quietly as Max searched for the switch. When he finally found a box and turned it on, a soft, steady sound filled the space, helping me find my center and balance my energy.

With the comforting sound in the background, my senses slowly began to return. I could hear clearly, and my mind began to function again, allowing me to process what was happening around me. I silently thanked Max and Zyron for their care and attention, who were always there to support me through the most difficult times.

After a moment of tense calm, Max broke the silence by asking Zyron what had happened outside.

From what I have been able to understand and what they told me is that there seems to be a confrontation between two rival gangs, — Zyron responded.

Zyron 's response seemed to increase Max's irritation.

Of course, and they had to choose this place and day to confront them. Oh God! There's only one thing to do to those thugs: a laser beam to the head to eliminate those problems completely — Max exclaimed angrily.

—Come on, don't get so upset, — Zyron tried to calm him down. —These things happen sometimes.

—You don't understand, Zyron. Terry can't be in the middle of conflicts like this. If we get caught, we're dead, it's that simple, not to mention that... — Max stopped abruptly, thinking about something else, and then closed his mouth.

—¿Not counting what? — Zyron asked , curious.

—You wouldn't understand, Zyron, and it's better that you don't know either, — Max replied irritatedly, while Zyron looked at him with a confused expression.

— Okay — I intervened, trying to smooth things over — If we get to this point, it's better that I know. Besides, we're all three involved in this, we can't have secrets on such an important project. Only the three of us can help each other in these situations.

Zyron said, showing his bewilderment. —I feel like I missed something or turned the wrong corner? What's going on?

—I'll show you, — I promised, touching his temples and sending him mental images so he could better understand everything about me, my brothers, and the Ætheris Gem.

Once Zyron found out everything, he had to sit down. He couldn't believe the magnitude of everything that was happening, or rather, I think he was just beginning to feel that magnitude and was trying to wrap his head around it all. Max looked at him sternly and warned him:

If you speak even one word or I find out that you have opened your mouth, you will know who I really am, Zyron. No one else must know this but you and I. If Terry told you, it is because it is something important for you to know, nothing more. That is why I have allowed you to know.

The tension in the hold was palpable, as if the very darkness surrounding us was steeped in secrets and danger. Zyron, visibly shaken by the revelation of the true nature of my power, nodded silently, trying to clear his mind of intrusive thoughts.

Max, with his knowledge of my power and its implications, understood the risk we were taking in revealing our truth to Zyron. He grabbed Zyron by the lapels of his jacket, warning him of the weight of the information he was now sharing.

—You better, — Max said in a serious tone, —Terry is risking not only his own life, but that of his entire family by showing you this.

I intervened, trying to calm the tension between them and reinforce confidence in Zyron.

—Let it go, Max. You know Zyron can be trusted. He won't risk this project. Besides, we've been working together for two years. You should know him well enough to know we can trust him.

Max, visibly affected by the situation and the stress of the moment, apologized to Zyron for his reaction.

—Okay, — Max said, letting go of Zyron. —I'm sorry I reacted like that. I'm just irritated by everything that's happening. Forgive me, Zyron.

— I forgive you, Max. It's no problem. I understand that we're all dealing with a lot right now — Zyron replied, trying to calm the waters.

We decided it was time to leave the warehouse and return to our office to assess the situation. Zyron pressed a button on the wall and a secret door opened, revealing a dark forest on the outskirts of the stadium. We stepped through the door and it closed behind us, leaving us alone in the quiet of the forest.

However, our brief peace was interrupted when we heard rapid footsteps approaching us. Before we could react, we found ourselves surrounded by a horde of masked and armed men.

Confusion gripped us as we tried to understand what was happening. Suddenly, two familiar figures emerged from the group: Sadeth and Anubis.

—You thought you could escape us, — Sadeth said, pointing a sonic pulse weapon at us.

— ¿Friends of yours, Terry? — Zyron asked, puzzled.

—They're not friends, they're enemies — I replied with frustration — They're looking for the Ætheris Gem.

Sadeth approached me and with a wave of his weapon, unleashed a wave of pain in my head, forcing me to reveal my true form.

—That's better, — Sadeth said , pleased with his manipulation. —If we're going to kill you, it's better that you die in your original form.

With my true identity exposed, I knew we were in danger. I had to find a way to protect my friends and stop Sadeth and Anubis before it was too late.

I focused my mind on the urgent task of protecting my friends and stopping Sadeth and Anubis. I remembered the deep connection they both had to the Ætheris Gem, a power that consumed them and drove them to violent, desperate actions.

Sadeth, once a respected scientist, had strayed into darkness by manipulating demonic energy in his quest to help those tainted by it. Anubis, his godson and collaborator, had followed in his footsteps and fallen into the same abyss of corruption and unbridled ambition.

The thirst for power had driven them to seek the Ætheris Gem, and now we were caught in their deadly game.

As Sadeth and Anubis approached with their weapons in hand, a flash of determination surged through me. I knew I couldn't allow the Stone to fall into the hands of those who would use it for evil purposes.

I focused my energy, fighting the dizziness caused by Sadeth 's attack, and searched deep within me for the strength to face this threat. My friends trusted me to protect them, and I would not let them down.

With a cry of determination, I prepared to face Sadeth and Anubis, ready to fight to the end to stop the darkness from taking over the Ætheris Gem and destroying everything I held dear.

I had to harness my true power if we were to escape this chaotic situation. With precise, stealthy movements, I generated a discharge of light energy that dazzled Sadeth and Anubis' men, forcing them to momentarily retreat and providing us with an opportunity to escape. I gestured for Zyron and Max to follow me as we headed into the forest for shelter.

Meanwhile, Sadeth ordered his men to attack us, unleashing a hail of laser beams that echoed through the air, destroying everything in their path and creating even more chaos on the scene. Our only goal was to get away as quickly as possible and find a safe place where we could recover and plan our next move.

Once we were a safe distance away in the forest, we decided to take a short break to assess our situation and plan our next steps. Meanwhile, Sadeth was gathering his men and discussing his plans to capture us.

Sadeth, with a furious expression on his face, gathers his men in a circle, surrounded by the gloom of the forest. His eyes shine with determination as he begins to speak in an authoritative tone.

— Damn! I can't believe they got away from us again! — Sadeth exclaims, her voice filled with frustration. — But it doesn't matter. They'll be back soon. They know they can't hide for long.

His men nod decisively, ready to follow his orders without question. They know Sadeth is a formidable leader and are prepared to follow him to the end.

Sadeth continues, his gaze scanning the dark forest around him. —We have to find them before they can escape this moon. We cannot allow them to interfere with our plans to obtain the Ætheris Gem.

Sadeth 's men nod, ready to obey his orders and carry out whatever action is necessary to capture their targets.

—Split up your teams and search every corner of this damn forest— Sadeth orders, determination in his voice. —Don't rest until you've found them. And remember, I want those intruders alive. They have valuable information that we need.

With a wave of his hand, Sadeth dismisses his men, who disperse into the darkness of the forest, determined to accomplish their mission and capture their enemies at all costs.

We found shelter in a cave deep enough that we would not be easily found.

—¿Can you open a transporter portal? — Zyron asked Max.

—I can't, the box was destroyed by the laser beams they threw at us.

—I'll open a portal, — I said. —There's no need to panic, I'll open it and we'll leave here quietly.

—Do it, while I check that they are not following us – said Max

With a quick movement of my hand, I opened the portal without a hitch. Once open, the three of us rushed through, and in an instant, the portal closed behind us, leaving no trace of our presence behind.

Zyron 's office, each of us looking for a seat to catch our breath: me on the couch, Max in an armchair and Zyron in his office chair, with a serious expression on his face.

—¿What an intense experience, huh? — Zyron commented , trying to break the tense silence. —Those guys are always after you?

It's a constant, my friend — I sighed, feeling the weight of each encounter with Sadeth and Anubis. — They never seem to rest, always lurking, always searching.

—It's really exhausting, — Max nodded, frowning as he recalled the dark eyes of his opponents. —Did you see those eyes? They were pure evil.

—Of course, it's the result of absorbing so much demonic energy — I explained, trying to ease the tension. — But well, friends, I must go. I can't afford to prolong my absence, and my relatives must not know that I have faced the enemies of the family. So, let's keep quiet about it.

—¿And who would believe us? — Zyron interjected , a note of disbelief in his voice. —Even I'm struggling to understand all this.

—Well, it's time to go — I announced, activating my ability to open a portal. — See you soon, friends. Hopefully, less eventful than this time.

With one last glance at my friends, I walked through the portal and arrived at my dormitory at Zenith, grateful for the chance to rest after such a tumultuous day.