CHAPTER 1 KYRAN'S AWAKENING

A few years passed during which Terry Whittaker's two families were already comfortable on the planet that Terry had created for them: Zephyra.

Now, Terry had resumed his old life, assuming the prestigious title of High Imperial and leading the Imperials from the hybrid planet Zenith, the fruit of his ingenuity. Forged from the most advanced technology, this space station-like planet stood as a bastion of universal justice. In this renewed arena, his steadfast friend and occasional advisor, Marcus, was always at his side. Determined to never abandon his leader and friend, the chieftain of the Saharim, Marcus had chosen to join the militia in order to remain close to Terry. To Darius, Terry's eternal protector and uncle, Marcus' presence was a priceless treasure. With exceptional skills in combat, Marcus quickly distinguished himself, mastering the military arts and emerging at the top of his class. In addition, his passion for armory led him to become a peerless armorer, expanding his already remarkable skills in weaponry creation.

Marcus's commitment was so unwavering that his vigilance stretched from dawn to dusk, never losing sight of Terry. This protective zeal provided great comfort to Darius, who berated himself for not being there for Terry when he disappeared through a transporter portal, setting off years of tireless searching. Convinced that Marcus would sacrifice his life for Terry if necessary, Darius found it a relief, though Terry found it both comforting and restrictive. He appreciated the security they provided, but longed for moments of solitude to reflect.

To find that personal space, Terry created a meditation corner on Zenith, a sanctuary adorned with plants and a stream, designed to inspire peace and tranquility. In this retreat, Ætheris imparted esoteric knowledge to him, allowing him to practice without interruption. His friend Elian, from the planet Zephyra, shared this passion for the esoteric, and together, under the tutelage of Ætheris, they delved deeper into these mysteries. Elian, already versed in the subject, had transformed his temple on the planet Zephyra so that his clan could worship Nerith, the Guardian of the Stars and Weaver of Cosmic Destiny.

Beyond divine worship, Elian established a secret sanctuary dedicated to Ætheris, venerating her as the emblem of universal justice and protector of the underprivileged. The Gem of Ætheris became the key element that explained the evolution of the Saharim towards a fuller existence, overcoming a life marked by intellectual scarcity, poverty and precariousness. This transformation was due to the arrival of Terry and the Gem of Ætheris, which were crucial in this process.

Over time, the Saharim adopted an austere way of life, where many of its members had the opportunity to study and the children were able to build a more prosperous future, cultivating their minds and acquiring tools to advance on the path of life. Some Saharim warriors enlisted in the militia, while others continued to work the land or delved into fields of study such as chemistry, physics, or similar areas. The Saharim clan experienced a profound evolution, moving far away from the precariousness they had endured for years before Terry's arrival.

Meanwhile, Terry's offspring, specifically Kyran and Elara, continued their cosmic adventures. At 45 years old, Kyran rose to the top as the eminent leader of the Saharim, inheriting such dignity from his father Terry, who had

been summoned back to the prestigious role of Imperial High Priest. After a brief flirtation with the military alongside Marcus, Kyran dove headlong into the study of —Space Biochemical Engineering for Sustainable Agriculture—, a passion that filled his soul with cosmic joy.

For her part, Elara, with the support of her uncle Ashtar, embarked on the academic odyssey of —Genomic Engineering and Astrophysics: Design of Life and Habitats in the Cosmos. — This intellectual journey was the missing piece to complete the puzzle of chemical, physical and genetic knowledge bequeathed by her father on the exotic world of Zalara.

Terry's genetically engineered children, Claudius, Dennis and Sapphire, remained within the Imperial core, rising rapidly in their military careers under their father's tutelage in the Imperial Council and Zenith's vanguard. They maintained a close bond with Kyran and Elara, sharing successes and advice. Elara, for her part, emerged as a wise advisor to her siblings and the Whittaker clan.

Her impeccable logic, rational vision and calculating approach made her an infallible source of wisdom.

Zahori, who had become a mother figure to Elara, deeply valued her adopted daughter's frankness, despite the occasional friction her pragmatic outlook could generate.

Zephyria, the planet that had been created and shaped by Terry's vision and power, flourished as an Eden for the Saharim and the Whittakers. The fusion of cultures had given birth to a vibrant and diverse community, with solid foundations. The fame of this intergalactic oasis attracted beings from other worlds, who, with the blessing of the Galactic Federation, joined this project of shared life. Terry, recognized as the architect of Zephyra, was given the authority to establish laws in harmony with the galactic statutes, thus forging a legacy of unity and prosperity under the stars.

Within this vibrant cosmic tapestry, Terry continued to exist, ever alert, an eternal sentinel for any threat that might disturb the harmony of the universe. His gaze, as penetrating as that of a starry eagle, extended beyond the confines of Zenith, encompassing the immensity of space in search of signs of discord. With the wisdom of one who has seen stars born and die, Terry became the guardian of a precious balance, holding the cosmic scales with a firm but fair hand.

This role as protector not only cemented him as a father figure to his family and people, but also as a beacon of light in the darkness of the void of space. Under his watch, Zephyra stood not only as a home for the Saharim and the Whittakers, but also as a sanctuary for those seeking refuge in the vastness of the cosmos.

With the Gem of Ætheris beating at the heart of his being, Terry wove a safety net through his actions that embraced his stellar community. The peace and prosperity of his world were a reflection of his tireless dedication and his unwavering commitment to universal justice. Through his efforts, he proved that even in the vastness of the universe, the love and protection of a single being could make a difference, maintaining harmony amidst the chaotic dance of the galaxies.

Troubled by the incursions of his eternal adversaries: Sadeth and Anubis. These beings, born from the shadows of the cosmos, found a perverse delight in disturbing the peace of his existence. Often, deep within him, a desire to erase them from the universe arose, a dark longing that touched the borders of his soul.

However, he tried hard to tame this impulse, faithful to the teachings of a religion he had embraced years ago, thanks to his friend Elian. This philosophy, which venerated all forms of life, regardless of their nature, had taught him the inestimable value of existence. Thus, he tried to keep his mind busy, avoiding succumbing to the temptation of anger. However, deep down, he sensed that the day of facing his destiny would inevitably come, for the well-being of his family and the balance of the universe.

In the meantime, he had to put those gloomy thoughts aside, for a more pleasant encounter awaited him. He was preparing to meet with his unconditional companions: Marcus, his eternal bodyguard, confidant and friend; Elian Varix, a comrade in spiritual studies and a soul mate; and his brother-in-law Aiden, with whom he shared a special bond. They had agreed to meet at an exclusive place, an oasis of relaxation known as the men's spa, a paradise reserved only for men. Rigel, the host, had already told them that he was eagerly awaiting them, along with Aiden, Rigel, Max and Zyron, to enjoy a moment of relaxation and camaraderie.

This refuge, far from the tribulations of everyday life and the shadows lurking from the cosmos, promised to be the perfect setting to strengthen ties and rediscover lost serenity. The promise of shared laughter and conversations that flowed like calm waters was a balm for the spirit. In this enclave, far from conflicts and challenges, brotherhood and mutual support were woven like the warp and weft of a celestial tapestry.

Stepping through a portal, Marcus and Terry made their appearance. Marcus was the first to be spotted, closely followed by Terry.

—As always, — Rigel said with a smile, —as his boss's faithful guardian. — Rigel hugged Marcus in greeting.

¿How are you, Rigel? — Marcus asked.

—Good, — she replied, turning her gaze to Terry and then wrapping him in a warm hug. Rigel still remembered those days when she desperately searched for her great friend, without any news of his whereabouts. Now, those distressing memories from years ago were beginning to fade. Terry had managed to return ten years ago, but those moments were still alive in everyone's memory, marking a

an episode they did not want to relive. —¿And you, Terry? ¿How have you been?

Terry, his tanned complexion unchanged after a decade away from the sun of Zalara, remained a vivid reminder of his life on that distant planet. Every glance in the mirror brought back memories of those days that forged him, teaching him to rise from the ashes and define himself as a man in the broadest sense of the word. Despite the reproaches of his wife, Zahori, who suggested he change the tone of his skin through chemical treatments due to the constant female attention he aroused, Terry remained firm. Zahori, although confident in the solidity of Terry's love, could not help but feel uncomfortable in front of the admirers who followed him. However, Terry always assured her that he would not give in, valuing his appearance as a crucial aspect of his identity, and downplaying external distractions.

—And how are the Imperial High Priest's duties going? — Zyron asked, changing the subject.

—You know how it is, Zyron, — Terry replied in a tone that mixed resignation and commitment. —I still have to sign documents and meet with rulers, delegates, among others. The agenda is still quite busy.

This conversation not only revealed the weight of responsibilities Terry carried as Imperial High Priest, but also the personal challenges and decisions that shaped his existence away from Zalara. Through these exchanges, the complexities of their lives were woven, characterized by loyalty, friendship, and the inescapable responsibilities each faced.

—Still, that's what you've always liked —Max intervened. Terry smiled, remembering how in his youth it was difficult for his friends to keep him away from his military commitments, given his strict adherence to martial duties.

—Yes, that was how he used to be, Rigel said. But now, with the passage of time, he has changed. He is no longer the obstinate, duty-obsessed soldier. He now leads a spiritual life that has made him more flexible. ¿Or am I wrong, Terry?

—You're not wrong. My outlook on life changed many years ago, when I started my life in Zalara. —Terry nodded, reflecting in his words a profound transformation. Aiden, knowing about his ex-brother-in-law's past and his memory loss crisis that lasted years, understood that that period had been crucial for his growth and maturity.

—Well,— Rigel continued, changing his tone to a more relaxed one, —we have more comforting matters to attend to now. We must have some fun. I hope you have sent word to your homes that you will be disappearing for a few days.

—Of course —Max replied with a smile— Why do you think we're here?

—We hope, — Aiden added, —that the promise of an exceptional weekend will be fulfilled.

—¿Have I ever broken my word? — Rigel asked, with a smile that anticipated the adventures to come.

Thus, amidst memories and anecdotes, the friends embarked on a promising weekend, leaving behind, if only for a moment, the complexities and challenges of their lives.

—Not yet, — Zyron replied, with a smile full of expectation, —but we are eager to find out what you have in store for us this weekend. —

—You'll see, or rather, you'll feel it, — Rigel replied with a mischievous gesture, activating his pocket intercom to let the masseuses in.

While this group was immersed in an anticipated weekend of relaxation and camaraderie, on Zephyra, Kyran, the spitting image of his father both physically and emotionally, was engrossed in his laboratory. His attention was fixed on the molecular structures of the earth before him, working on creating a chemical compound intended to increase its productivity. His ambition was to develop a new species of plant, a project that showed his inherent passion for science and innovation. Kyran had inherited his father's responsibility and dedication at a young age, displaying the same obsession with leadership that Terry had displayed in his younger years. Although he enjoyed having fun, his fondness for the laboratory outweighed any other pleasures.

Terry understood his son deeply, remembering his own reflection in those same inclinations at that age. Therefore, he gave him his space, respecting his need for concentration and scientific exploration. Meanwhile, his brothers took advantage of the opportunity to disconnect from their obligations military personnel for the weekend, looking to relax and enjoy a well-deserved rest. This contrast in the family reflected the diversity of characters and passions, uniting everyone under the same roof of understanding and mutual support.

Kyran, exhausted from the mental effort and with his eyes struggling to stay open, decided it was time to take a break from his work. He also felt a slight pain in his chest, which confused him since he had not been doing much physical work. He considered the possibility that the discomfort was due to a recent weight training session at the gym, accompanied by his uncle Rodrick.

—Maybe I overexerted myself?— he murmured, massaging his chest. —I'll rest a bit, go lie down,— he said, getting up and heading for a nearby bunk bed. He lay down, placed his head on the pillow, and closed his eyes, seeking relief and rest.

Meanwhile, at Whittaker Castle, Zahori and Elara were enjoying a moment together, browsing through fashion, jewelry, and cosmetics magazines. The conversation flowed around current trends, marking the contrast with the fashions of the past. The rest of the family was divided between those who remained in the castle and those who had gone out to fulfill commitments or enjoy the company of friends.

—As I was saying —Zahori explained to Elara— fashion is different now, it's not like before.

This contrast between Kyran's dedication in his laboratory and Zahori and Elara's relaxation time at the castle underlined the diversity of interests and pursuits that characterised the Whittaker family's life. While some sought to innovate and push boundaries, others found pleasure in the art of fashion and beauty, thereby demonstrating the richness and complexity of their personal worlds.

—Everything changes, Mother,— Elara replied, pointing to a garment in the magazine. —Look at this, for example. You can see that it's more synthetic than natural, and that has turned fashion into something much more ephemeral.

—You are right, daughter,— Zahori nodded. Elara smiled, grateful for her foster mother's understanding.

We'll leave Zahori and Elara for a moment, and return to Kyran's lab, where he was trapped in a deep sleep that soon turned into a nightmare. He saw images of his past in Zalara, the tragic moment when his mother passed away by a laser beam through his heart during a mission to rescue his clan from slave-trading invaders. He tossed and turned in his sleep, screaming, until he was suddenly awakened by the tormenting images.

He sat up abruptly, his heart pounding wildly, his head splitting in sharp pain. He put his hands to his head, and a blinding light began to emanate from his chest. Confused and terrified, he began to scream, feeling his body vibrate so violently that he feared he might faint completely.

In different parts of the castle, the family members were experiencing an unusual internal vibration. Zahori and Elara felt a disturbance in their chests, being more intense in Elara, to the point of feeling a momentary stoppage of the heart accompanied by a tingling in her hands, leaving her confused and alarmed. Francisco Javier and Helena perceived a strange ringing in their ears and a peculiar vibration in their bodies, as did their grandchildren Claudius, Dennis, and Safiro. Ethan and Rodrick experienced the effects more intensely, fearing that their hearts would stop.

Meanwhile, Terry, preparing to meet his friends, was struck by a sharp pain in his heart and head, falling to his knees due to the pain. A light emanated from his chest, expanding just before he passed out under the shower spray.

Marcus, ever vigilant, put aside the massage he was receiving and ran to help his friend, turning off the water and carrying him out of the bathroom to lay him down on a nearby bed. He dried his face and forehead with a cloth, worried about Terry's unexpected fainting, who had not suffered a similar episode since the incident caused by Zahori years before.

—You have to wake up, Terry, — Marcus urged, trying to revive him without success. He soon called Rigel through a LumiCom to inform him of the situation, and before long, everyone was rushing over, worried about how they could bring him back to consciousness.

Aiden was the first to arrive, anxiously asking what had happened. Marcus quickly explained, indicating his bewilderment at Terry's scream and his prompt reaction. Aiden suggested finding a way to wake him up, worried about having to explain the incident to the others. Everyone struggled to come up with a solution, trying to understand what had happened and how they could help Terry wake up.

Meanwhile, in the laboratory, Kyran lay unconscious. Ashtar, upon entering and seeing his nephew in such a state, rushed to his side. After accommodating him and checking his pulse, he was relieved to see that he was still alive. He went in search of a basin of water and a cloth, hoping that by wetting his head, Kyran would wake up.

After a few hours, Kyran finally regained consciousness, albeit suffering from a severe headache.

—¿What happened to you? — Ashtar asked, trying to understand the cause of Kyran's unexpected fainting.

—I don't know, man, — Kyran replied, visibly confused. —I just wanted to get some rest, close my eyes… But then I dreamed of my mother and had visions of my life in Zalara. I woke up screaming, seeing a light emanating from my chest, and afterward, I don't remember anything until I saw you here.

Ashtar nodded slowly, a mixture of concern and understanding. He knew well the latent potential in Kyran, that power he had feared would eventually manifest, and now it seemed to have begun its process.

—I understand, — he said seriously. —It's time to talk to the rest of the family. You're not alone in this.

—¿What's happening to me, man?— Kyran looked at Ashtar, searching his face for answers.

—Don't worry. This is part of a natural process; it was just a matter of time. Let's see if something similar has happened to your sister.

—Ashtar extended his hand, helping Kyran out of bed— Let's go to the castle. We need to all gather and talk about what's going on.

At the Astral Alpha Lounge hotel and spa , Aiden and the other men had dressed and covered Terry's lifeless body, who lay in deep silence, showing no signs of awakening. The situation shrouded Marcus and Aiden in disbelief, evoking memories of past despair, moments when they felt helpless in the face of the uncertainty surrounding Terry. Meanwhile, in Terry's turbulent sea of dreams, images of his life in Zalara with his beloved Nova and his still-young children danced before his eyes. He saw himself standing next to Nova, watching the sunset from the porch of their home, a scene imbued with lost peace and love.

—My love, you must help our son Kyran, — Nova whispered, her voice tinged with a gentle but firm urgency. Terry looked at her, confused, not understanding what she meant. In his mind, Kyran was still a child, sleeping peacefully in his bed, just like his sister. But Nova insisted, piercing the veil of sleep with her message.

—You must help Kyran and Elara.

—You must understand that this is just the beginning of everything —Nova whispered, looking into her husband's eyes—You need to be strong, Terry. Our children will need you more than you can imagine. You must protect them from your enemies, because when they discover the powers they possess, the persecutions will be relentless.

—I don't understand you, — Terry insisted, confusion and concern crossing his gaze. —What do you mean, my love? Our children are fine, they are safe in their room, — he said, turning his gaze towards the house, searching for the comfort of normality.

But Nova, with a seriousness she rarely displayed, turned his attention back to her, her eyes filled with a breathtaking intensity.

—Terry, listen carefully. What our children hold within them is unique, a blend of our essences that makes them extraordinarily valuable to friends and foes alike. I am not speaking only of the present, when they can still be under our roof, innocent and safe. I am speaking of what is to come, of a future in which their true nature will be discovered and coveted. You must prepare yourself, and prepare them, for what awaits them. Their destiny goes beyond Zalara, beyond what we ourselves could have imagined.

Terry looked at Nova, the words of his real-life dead wife finally piercing the fog of his confusion. Though the message was cryptic, the love and urgency with which it was delivered left no room for doubt: times of trial and danger were coming, and only by standing together, strengthening each other, could they hope to overcome them.

While Terry struggled to process Nova's revelation into the fabric of his dreams, in the real world his family prepared to face the uncertainty of their situation, united in their determination to uncover the truth and protect themselves from the challenges ahead.

—Don't you understand, Jaxon? You are special, and so are our children. They have inherited your power, and you must protect them and teach them, just as you were taught, — she said, walking away from her husband as her figure slowly faded away. Terry, sunk in despair at losing his beloved Nova once again, screamed her name and woke up. In the main hall, his family and friends, alerted by his scream, ran to his room.

—You're finally awake, — Aiden exclaimed, letting out a sigh of relief.

—¿What happened? — Zyron asked, approaching the bed where Terry, now sitting, was covering himself with a sheet.

—I'm not sure, — Terry admitted. —I was just getting ready to go eat when suddenly an excruciating pain shot through my head and chest. Then a bright light enveloped me, and then nothing until I found myself here.

—The important thing is that you have woken up. We will investigate what happened, — Marcus said, visibly relieved, just as his LumiCom began to vibrate. When he activated it, the holographic image of Francisco Javier appeared.

—You must return to the castle, — said Francisco Javier.

—¿What happened? — Aiden asked, approaching the projection.

—We will explain everything to you at the castle. It is crucial that you return and bring Rigel and the others. Everyone must be present —Francis Xavier assured.

—We'll be there, — Marcus said, turning off the device. Looking at the others, he announced, —You heard, we must go, — he ordered, and everyone nodded, stepping out to allow Terry to dress in privacy before they walked through the transporter portal together.

Once in the castle, they gathered in the main hall, some sitting comfortably in armchairs, others standing. It was Ashtar who spoke:

—What we have been anticipating for years has finally happened: Kyran's powers have manifested, and we will soon see if Elara reveals hers as well.

—So, that vibration we felt... —Ethan mused.

—We never imagined it would happen this way, — said Helena, Terry's mother and grandmother of Kyran and Elara.

—¿What are the next steps? — Aiden asked, looking around the room for direction.

The reunion, filled with revelations and unanswered questions, marked the beginning of a new chapter for the family. United in the face of uncertainty, they prepared to navigate together the challenges that Kyran's and, potentially, Elara's emerging powers would bring.

—It is imperative to teach him to control his powers, — Francisco Javier said seriously. —Kyran can no longer continue as before. If his power manifests unchecked, those who seek the gem will detect it, and that would put him in grave danger. They could try to capture him to extract his power or use it for their own benefit. Most likely, they will try to enslave him or, in the worst case, take his life to obtain said power. —

—I'll be in charge of investigating, — Ashtar announced with determination. —I'll look for any connection to the gem, any genetic basis, or any clue that might reveal how this power manifests itself.

Meanwhile, Terry, standing next to his daughter Elara, was lost in his thoughts. He remembered his childhood, when his father taught him and his siblings how to handle their powers and the importance of hiding them to avoid being enslaved. Those years of fear and uncertainty, where trust was a luxury they could not afford, resonated painfully in his heart. He did not wish that fate on his children. Now, he understood the message of his late wife, Nova, who emphasized protecting their children from future threats. Lost in his reflections, Elara brought him out of his reverie with a gesture of affection.

—Father, — Elara said, her voice filled with warmth, —don't worry. We'll be in this together and we'll face any challenge without a problem.

Elara, always a comforting solace, was a precious gift from his beloved Nova, a testament to the deep love they shared. Terry, touched by his daughter's gesture, smiled at her, choosing to keep his worries quiet.

—Between Terry and I —Francisco Javier intervened, addressing Kyran— we will teach you everything you need to know so that you can use your power safely and learn to hide it, preventing others from detecting your energy.

—Okay, Grandpa, — Kyran replied, showing his willingness to learn, —When do we start?

The family's commitment to Kyran and Elara's safety and development was palpable. Together, they prepared to face any adversity, reaffirming their unbreakable bond and determination to protect each other in a world that, while full of wonder, was not without its dangers.

—The sooner the better, — Marcus commented, aware of the urgency.

—You're right about that, buddy, — Aiden agreed, reflecting the general consensus.

—Well, then, tomorrow we will begin, — Francis Xavier decided firmly. —We will go to the temple to begin the teachings. Terry, it is your duty to prepare your son for the lessons.

—Yes, Father, — Terry replied, assuming responsibility.

—The rest must support Kyran so that he can develop his powers properly. Are we in agreement? —Francisco Javier looked at those present, seeking confirmation.

—Yes, — they answered in unison, committed to the plan.

Alone in his room, Kyran pondered the recent events and the power he must now learn to control. Despite having watched his father use it countless times, he never imagined that he himself would possess it. The possibility that his sister would not develop these powers placed upon him the double duty of protecting her and handling his own ability. Deep in these thoughts, he was interrupted by a knock at the door.

—Come in, — Kyran said, watching his father enter.

—¿How are you feeling, son? — Terry asked, visibly worried.

—Okay, Father. Don't worry about me—Kyran tried to offer comfort.

—I'm glad, — Terry sat down next to him on the bed, putting an arm around him protectively. —I don't want you to experience the same difficulties I did as a child.

Kyran smiled, understanding his father's efforts to reassure him.

—I'm not afraid, Father, — he assured confidently.

—I'm glad to hear it, — Terry nodded. —I understand what you must be thinking, the worries that are running through your mind. I went through the same thing. I want to spare you that torment.

Kyran, seeking comfort, rested his head on Terry's shoulder and asked:

—Do you think it will be difficult to learn to master my powers?

—I don't think so. You're smart and you'll learn quickly.

—What about my sister? Do you think she will develop the powers sooner or later?

—We can't be sure. We have to keep an eye on his development; he might show them... or maybe not.

This conversation between father and son not only strengthened their bond, but also prepared Kyran for the challenges ahead, assuring him that no matter what came next, he would not be alone on his path.