CHAPTER 13

At 5 a.m., Kyran woke up in the bedroom of the hotel where he was staying with his friends. They had opted to rent a triple suite, seeking comfort and company on their adventure. He got out of bed and walked to the living room, where a large window offered a panoramic view of the city, illuminated by neon lights. He approached the glass, resting his hand on his face, in an attempt to evoke the events of the previous night.

He vaguely remembered their arrival at the Spa Man Boulevard, the drinks they had ordered, and the appearance of some masseuses. However, his memory was clouded beyond that point, save for the exquisite aroma of a woman, the kisses exchanged, and the softness of her skin. The rest was an indecipherable blur. For a moment, he cursed his genetic predisposition, just as his brother Safiro used to tell him. His uncle Rodrick suffered from the same problem: a night of excess would erase his memories of the event. This had become a joke between his uncles and father, who made him believe that he had committed all kinds of misdeeds during his mental blackouts. Fortunately, Kyran and his brothers were still spared from such practical jokes.

Kyran, still shrouded in the haze of his alcohol-clouded memories, fervently yearned to unravel the events of the previous night. Although his mind seemed to float in an alcoholic mess that hindered clear thinking, he headed to the living room minibar for sparkling water, hoping to quench his thirst and clear his thoughts, in the hope of recovering some lost fragment of memory.

Sitting on the couch, he placed his arm over his eyes, trying to block out the artificial light that bothered him. In that moment of introspection, Kyran contemplated settling down, considering starting a serious search for a partner with whom he could share his life. However, a fleeting thought suggested that perhaps it would be better to keep things as they were for now. —The right one will come, — he muttered to himself, leaving the bottle on the coffee table as his gaze wandered out the window, where the first rays of the sun began to tint the horizon in reddish tones. Ixoriaa, with its eternal summer climate, offered lush vegetation and rich biodiversity both marine and terrestrial, thanks to its perpetual Mediterranean climate.

While his friends were still deep in sleep, Kyran was the only one awake at that hour. Knowing that the hotel restaurant operated 24 hours a day, he decided to take advantage of the time to freshen up, get dressed and go out for something to eat.

The restaurant was quiet at the moment; it had been full the night before, but by this time, most of the diners had already retired to rest. Only a few people occupied the bar and three tables were scattered with solitary diners. Kyran chose a table near the window, from where he could admire the gardens. The hotel's lush and beautiful gardens contributed to its fame, and offered a calming view. No sooner had he sat down than a waiter immediately approached with the menu. Kyran ordered the Mediterranean breakfast, driven as much by a feeling of nostalgia as by a desire to explore the fusion of local flavours.

Breakfast began with a refreshing xanarita juice, whose vibrant blue color and balanced flavor immediately captured your attention. The Ixoriaana omelet, garnished with herbs and wild flowers, was an aromatic and visual delight. The ancient grain bread, accompanied by nut butter and The wild berry jam perfectly complemented the dish with its texture and richness of flavours. The salad of green leaves and tropical fruits was an explosion of freshness and flavour, dressed with a light, citrusy vinaigrette. And to top it off, the yoghurt with Ixoriaana flower honey offered a sweet and comforting end to the gastronomic experience.

As he savored each bite, Kyran felt grateful for this moment of serenity, a pause in his adventurous life to connect with the beauty and flavors of Ixoriaa. This breakfast wasn't just a meal; it was a sensory journey through the culinary gifts of a planet that, though far from home, felt incredibly close at that moment.

In the quiet glow of dawn, Kyran lingered at the breakfast table, absorbed in the dance of the first rays of sunlight filtering through the window and the morning concert of birds nesting in the trees near the hotel. The previous night had been a whirlwind of excitement and adventure, and now, seeking a moment of calm, he decided to venture outside, longing for the embrace of fresh air and peace that only nature can offer. He left behind a note for his friends, should they wake up, and made sure to bring his LumiCom, the technology that erased distances with a simple touch.

Walking through the hotel halls, bathed in the golden light of dawn and scented by the sea breeze, Kyran headed towards the garden. The hotel, anchored near the beach, was surrounded by a landscape where the sun intertwined with the sea in an eternal dance of waves and light. A gentle breeze caressed his face, inviting him to breathe deeply, to fill himself with the essence of the sea and the freshness of the new day.

—This place is very quiet, — a female voice echoed, soft as the rustling of the wind through the leaves. Surprised, Kyran turned around, finding himself facing the enigmatic presence of a woman who seemed to embody the very essence of the morning. Standing six feet tall, slim and upright, her long brown hair tied in a high bun flowed like a chocolate waterfall. Her skin, pale as porcelain, contrasted with the black silk dress she was wearing, making her stand out like a moon in the night.

The morning breeze wove around Kyran and Mina a veil of unexpected intimacy, a chance meeting between two souls that the night had left adrift in the same harbor. Kyran's surprise faded in the face of Mina's frankness and humor, revealing a spontaneous connection and a shared curiosity to unravel each other's mysteries.

—If it's quiet, — Kyran conceded, his initial surprise giving way to a captivated smile. Mina's confession about the true nature of the hotel's nightlife and their shared purpose of escaping the madding crowd resonated with him, drawing back the curtain on a stage where they were both protagonists of their own adventure.

As they introduced themselves, Kyran's gesture of kissing the back of Mina's hand was an echo of more gallant times, a nod to the beauty and mystery she exuded. Kyran's observation of Mina's manicured yet practical hands hinted at an untold story, a life perhaps as full of contrasts as his own.

—¿Are you always this polite? — Mina's question, tinged with a smile that danced on her lips, was both a challenge and an invitation. Kyran's answer, a tribute to the beauty before him, sought to navigate the waters of innocent flirtation, but Mina was an enigma, a book whose pages resisted being read so easily.

— Mina Ishikawa — her name was a melody Kyran already kept in his memory. But Mina's warning, playful but firm, revealed a woman of substance, someone who defied convention and expectations. She was not a trophy to be won with honeyed words, but a partner in dialogue, someone who valued authenticity over flattery.

Kyran's question, simple but full of intent, opened a new chapter in their encounter. —¿What do you like?— He wasn't looking for a superficial answer, but rather for access to an inner world, to the dreams and desires that Mina harbored behind her blue eyes and enigmatic smile.

Mina turned to him, the morning sun illuminating her face, giving her eyes a gleam of defiance and promise. —I like adventure, — she began, her voice a whisper that competed with the murmur of the wind, —authenticity, and people who have the courage to follow their own rules. But most of all, I like discovering the unexpected in the most ordinary places and at the most unusual times.

Kyran listened, fascinated, as the world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only them, two travelers on the threshold of an unknown journey, guided by curiosity and a longing for something beyond the daily grind. In that moment, the hotel garden became their private sanctuary, a place where the possibilities were as vast as the sea that stretched out before them.

Kyran, still holding Mina gently by the forearms, searched her blue eyes for an explanation, a bridge to understanding. —I just want to know what's going on, — he said, his voice a reflection of the tangle of emotions he felt. —You don't know me and you're kissing me. I don't want to be involved in any trouble. ¿Do you want to make your partner jealous or something?

Mina pulled her face away for a moment, surprised by Kyran's frankness. Unaccustomed to being questioned in such a way, her first reaction was annoyance. —I'm not married, nor am I with anyone, — she replied in a tone that mixed irritation and a hint of involuntary respect. Kyran's sincerity was unusual for her, refreshing and disconcerting at the same time. —I've always found men willing to play along without asking, but you... you're different.

Kyran gently released her, stepping back, creating space to breathe and think. —We're all looking for something in life, Mina. Some, for fun; others, for something deeper. I… I want to understand before I jump.

Mina, observing the serenity in Kyran, felt a growing curiosity about this man who defied her expectations. —I understand, — she admitted, her voice softened. —Maybe I was too direct. But in a place like this, where everyone seems to be looking for a quick escape, running into you… it's unexpected.

—¿And what are you looking for, Mina? ¿Fun? ¿Escape? — Kyran asked, genuinely interested in discovering the essence of the woman in front of him.

Mina sighed, a melancholic smile appearing on her lips. —Maybe I'm looking for someone who isn't satisfied with the surface. Someone who wants to see beyond appearances.

—So— Kyran offered his hand in a gesture of peace and invitation to a new stage in their unexpected relationship, —let's start again. I'm Kyran. And more than a night of oblivion, I look for moments worth remembering.

Mina took his hand, the warmth of her grip sealing an unspoken agreement between them. —I'm Mina Ishikawa. And maybe, just maybe, you'll be the surprise I didn't know I was waiting for.

In that instant, with the sun rising higher and the world awakening around them, Kyran and Mina found themselves not just physically, but at a crossroads emotional paths, ready to explore what surprises and revelations this new day would bring.

Mina took the lead, her voice filled with a captivating mystery. —Come with me, — she said, linking her hand with Kyran's, a silent promise of adventures to come. She led Kyran out of the hotel, to where the first rays of dawn wove gold over the still-sleeping streets.

Upon reaching the entrance, Mina spoke briefly with the valet. Moments later, the chauffeur appeared, driving a car that immediately captured Kyran's attention. It was the Aston Martin Nebula, a model that looked like it came straight out of the pages of a science fiction novel, but with the aura of elegance and mystery of James Bond's classic DB5.

The Nebula gleamed in the rising sun, its sleek lines promising speed and advanced technology hidden beneath its hood. Mina smiled at Kyran, a glint of anticipation in her eyes. —Perhaps we should walk a bit, — Kyran had initially suggested, but at the sight of the Nebula, he understood that this trip would be anything but ordinary.

—We could go somewhere else, if you want? — Kyran had asked, not imagining that fate was already marked by Mina's choice. The Aston Martin Nebula was not simply a means of transportation; it was the prelude to an adventure that would take them beyond their imagination, a special journey that began at that very moment.

As Mina took the wheel of the Aston Martin Nebula, her skill was evident, maneuvering the vehicle with the skill of a seasoned racer. As they accelerated, Kyran couldn't help but notice the exceptional speed at which they were traveling, feeling the thrill of a race, although something told him that they hadn't reached the vehicle's limits yet.

—¿Did you know that the Nebula can reach up to 500 km/h on land surfaces? — Kyran asked, trying to hide his amazement at the speed and smoothness with which Mina drove the car.

Mina smiled at him, not taking her eyes off the road. —That's just the beginning, — she replied. —This isn't just a luxury car; it's equipped with technology designed not only for Earth, but for space as well. Imagine escaping Earth's atmosphere, all thanks to its hybrid propulsion system.

Kyran leaned forward, intrigued. —Hybrid propulsion for space travel? That sounds more like a ship than a car.

— Exactly, — Mina said, a glint of excitement in her eyes. —The Nebula fuses the best of both worlds. Aerodynamics and advanced engineering allow it to exceed 310 mph on Earth, and its propulsion system can take you beyond the atmosphere whenever you want. It's the true definition of a vehicle without limits.

Kyran nodded, impressed. —Incredible. Aston Martin really exceeded all expectations with the Nebula. Not just in speed, but also in the ability to explore space. It's like having your own James Bond vehicle, but for the space age.

Mina laughed, nodding. —And don't forget the defensive arsenal and stealth technologies. It's not just for show; it's equipped to meet any challenge, whether on Earth or in space. Imagine the possibilities for adventure.

The conversation continued as the Aston Martin Nebula glided smoothly along the road, its performance and capabilities becoming the central theme. For Kyran, the journey had gone from being a simple commute to a vision of the future of mobility, with Mina at the wheel proving that, in the world of the Aston Martin Nebula, limits were just the beginning.

Mina's revelation left Kyran in a state of silent admiration as he followed her steps through the splendor of the property. The Riviera of the Lost Stars was a dream retreat, a place where luxury intertwined with the intimacy of nature, offering a perfect escape from everyday reality.

—It really is beautiful, — Kyran admitted, his voice filled with sincere wonder. The property, with its combination of sprawling gardens, shimmering pool, and access to a private beach, was a testament to Mina's quest for a private sanctuary. As he took in the thoughtful details, from the garages to the caretakers who kept everything in immaculate condition, Kyran understood the magnitude of the world Mina had built for herself.

—¿Is it yours? — he asked, still processing the beauty and exclusivity of the place.

With a smile that reflected both pride and a hint of humility, Mina nodded. —Yes, — she said, her voice soft but laden with accomplishment. —I had a hard time locating a private place, but I finally found it. Everything you see here has belonged to me for some years now.

— It's impressive, — Kyran acknowledged, his words insufficient to capture the depth of his impression.

The mood softened when Mina suggested a more relaxed moment. —Let's relax a bit. We can go to my private beach; I'm sure you'll love it. Follow me, — she suggested, leading him into a large, beautifully decorated room. The ancient architecture, walls adorned with famous paintings, and antique sculptures gave the space the feel of a private museum, a personal collection of beauty and art.

Upon reaching a room, Mina presented Kyran with a selection of swimsuits, all new and still in their wrappings, a courtesy that spoke to her attention to detail and her desire to make her guest feel comfortable.

Mina's gesture of sharing her personal paradise with Kyran, along with the promise of moments of relaxation on the private beach, marked the beginning of a unique experience on the Riviera of the Lost Stars. A place where time seemed to stand still, inviting its visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity that only such places can offer.

Meanwhile, at the hotel, Kyran's friends were beginning to wake up from their slumber. Alexei was the first to find the note Kyran had left behind, just as Hiro was coming out of the bathroom, drying his face with a towel, still recovering from the spectacular night they had enjoyed.

—Kyran went out to get some fresh air, — Alexei announced, passing the note to Hiro.

—Enjoy it, — Hiro replied with a smile. —Anyway, there are plenty of places around here you can explore.

—Yes, — Alexei agreed, as he opened the curtains to let in the sunlight, illuminating the room with its glow. Hiro covered his eyes briefly, adjusting to the intensity of the light.

—¿What do you feel like doing?— Hiro asked, looking at Alexei.

—First have breakfast, and then we can call Kyran to see if he wants to join us on our tour of the city—

—Okay, — Hiro agreed, getting ready for the day.

Elsewhere, at Whittaker Castle, some of Kyran's brothers were sitting down to dinner.

—¿Do you think Kyran is okay? — Claudius asked, addressing Dennis with a worried tone.

—If something bad had happened to him, we would have heard about it by now. Don't worry, — Dennis assured calmly. —How many times has he disappeared for a few days after a party? You know it's not a regular occurrence, but once a month he takes three or five days off for himself and then comes back without any problems. Remember, our brother's job is very mentally demanding; he needs to get away from his lab for a few days to recharge.

Claudius nodded in understanding at Dennis's words. —Besides, Kyran isn't alone. He's with his friends; they'll take care of him. If anything happens, they know how to contact us. We must focus our attention on ourselves, Claudius. Tomorrow, we need to mobilize the troops to survey the planet Elysion. It's crucial to go with a clear mind, as we'll face resistance, especially from the leader of that group. There are secrets there that they've been hiding for years.

— Yes, I am aware of it — Claudius replied — it is imperative that we discover what is hidden in that place. There are rumors of corruption, death and trafficking, but I have also heard that they worship an entity with powers that, they say, protects them. It is vital to find out the truth.

—Let's hope our brother Sapphire's latest invention will be of help with whatever we find there, — Dennis commented, bringing a spoonful of soup to his mouth.

—My inventions will do more than help; they will protect you, — Safiro intervened, entering abruptly and capturing her brothers' attention with her annoyed tone.

—Sapphire, ¿could you be less alarming? — Claudius reproached her, visibly surprised by the unexpected entrance. —You always give us a scare.

—They deserve it, — Safiro replied, taking a seat as a maid placed her cutlery and another served her entree. —They are always arguing about my inventions. I want them to know, — she said, pointing at them with her fork, —that my 'inventions' are exceptional creations designed to ensure that they can continue their work without forgetting their true purpose.

— Dennis wiped his chest with the napkin, annoyed by the soup spilled due to Safiro's sudden intervention. —You could take an example from our uncle Ashtar. He is calm, he doesn't show off his inventions or scare his brothers.

—Yes, — Claudius agreed. —You should learn a little of our Uncle Ashtar's calmness.

—¡Shut up! — Safiro snapped irritably as he speared a carrot with his fork and brought it to his mouth. The tension at the table was palpable, but so was the familiarity of these kinds of sibling interactions, a mix of disagreement and underlying respect for each other's abilities and concerns.

—So, ¿how are my favorite nephews? — Ashtar asked in a warm tone as he entered the dining room.

—Here, trying to keep Sapphire from giving us a fainting spell, — Dennis replied, glancing at his brother.

—¿What have you been doing to your brothers, Sapphire? — Ashtar asked, giving her a knowing smile.

—Nothing, nothing— Sapphire muttered, focusing on her plate, while Ashtar took a seat next to her.

Uncle Ashtar advised him in a calm tone: —Try to get along with your brothers, nephew. Someday you might need them by your side.

—I have my inventions, — replied Safiro, taking a sip of soup.

Ashtar shared his wisdom: —It's okay that you're passionate about science, and I understand you perfectly; I was the same way when I was your age. But that obsession blinded me, and it took me a while to realize many things. It was your father who helped me see beyond, although it took me a while to accept what he told me. Don't close yourself off from the world so much; over the years, your perspective will change and you will look for things that give more meaning to your life.

—¿Do you think that could happen, Uncle? — Claudius asked, intrigued by Ashtar's words.

—They are still young and it is normal that they want to enjoy themselves. But the time will come when they will look for something more substantial to fill their lives, — Ashtar said.

—When that happens, I'll think about it. Right now, my priority is to perfect my creations— Safiro said proudly. —Uncle, I'll need your advice in the lab tomorrow. ¿Could you help me?

—Of course, Sapphire. I'll be happy to advise you. Tomorrow we'll go to your lab and we'll figure it out together— Ashtar promised.

—Thank you, — Safiro said, offering a rare smile before rising from the table, having finished eating. —Good evening, everyone, — she said with a general look, before turning on her heel and leaving the dining room, leaving behind a thoughtful silence.

—That boy will never change, — Dennis muttered, shaking his head with a mixture of frustration and affection.

—Give him time— Ashtar replied in a voice full of experience and patience. —He will, all scientists change eventually.

— I hope it will be soon, — Claudius added, sharing the feeling of hope and concern for his brother. The conversation reflected not only brotherly love but also the understanding that every person has their own path of growth and discovery, even a stubborn scientist like Sapphire.

In Ixoria, it was just after five in the afternoon when Kyran and Mina entered the house. They planned to take a shower, get dressed, and leave to meet their friends at a restaurant. Mina was about to take Kyran back to the hotel when Mina's LumiCom rang.

—Wait a bit, — Mina said, answering in another room. Meanwhile, Kyran sat on the couch waiting for Mina to finish her call.

—Hello, — Mina replied. Immediately, a hologram of a tall man dressed in a military uniform adorned with rank insignia on the left side of his chest was projected. —Commander Sox, ¿how may I help you?

The message was clear and urgent. —Mina Ishikawa, you must leave wherever you are immediately. Hide deep within the universe. The squadron from the planet Draxium is attacking us.

You must be careful; they are surely behind the attack on Prince Midel and they will want to seize the plans that you possess. Eliminate all traces of you and, especially, of this conversation. Do not let anyone know of your mission.

—Commander Sox, I will contact you immediately as soon as I am in a safe location, — Mina said, gesturing with her hand. She raised her right hand to shoulder level, palm forward, fingers together except for the index and middle fingers, which formed a —V.— She then turned her wrist inward, so that her palm was facing herself, keeping the —V— facing Commander Sox. She ended the salute by gently lowering her hand in a fluid motion, showing respect and sharing the spirit of adventure and depth of character required for space exploration.

—You don't need to tell me, just take care of the plans and take care of yourself. Don't send me any information; I'll contact you as soon as everything is calm and safe so you can come back.

—Yes, Commander, — Mina replied, turning off the LumiCom in the room. As she left the library, she saw Kyran sitting there; she had completely forgotten about him of his commitment to take him to his hotel. —Kyran, take the keys to my car, the Aether Cruiser ZX-250 — she said, passing it over her shoulder — I'm very sorry, but I won't be able to take you to the hotel. I have to leave the planet immediately; my aunt just called me, and I have to return to my planet for an emergency.

—I understand, — Kyran said, taking the keys and slightly adjusting his seat to capture her gaze completely. —I'll give you your car back as soon as I get to the hotel.

—Don't worry, — Mina assured him with a wistful smile. —Actually, keep it. I don't think I'll be back anytime soon and it would just sit here collecting dust. You'll be able to put it to better use this way. Here are the manuals, though with its AI technology, it'll be easy to operate.

—¿When will I be able to see you again ?— Kyran asked, a hint of hope in his voice.

Mina's gaze lingered on Kyran, capturing the moment. He looked particularly handsome in that shirt she had picked out for the day. She shook her head gently, trying to clear the thoughts that distracted her from what she needed to do. —I don't know yet, — she replied, her voice filled with uncertainty and a slight fear for the future.

I must go soon to prepare my things— She approached him, and with a gesture full of affection and a whisper of shared adventure, she gave him a kiss on the lips. Then, with a soft but firm voice, she asked him—Just remember me, not as a farewell, but as the echo of a melody in a dream. Let it be our moment under the stars of Ixoria, an indelible memory of what we were in the infinite instant of our meeting. Take it with you, Kyran, as the promise of a universe full of possibilities.

As Mina spoke, Kyran watched her, a mix of curiosity and concern dancing in his gaze. There was something in her words, a weight and depth, that he couldn't quite decipher. Over the course of his life, Kyran had developed an almost intuitive ability to read people, to understand their nuances and the unspoken. But with Mina, it was different. She was like an enigma, a constellation of emotions and secrets that he longed to understand, but always seemed to lie just out of reach.

At that moment, as she spoke of memories and goodbyes, Kyran felt his heart clench. ¿What was she really trying to tell him? Worry was building inside him, fueled by the possibility of losing someone who, in such a short time, had begun to mean so much more than he had anticipated. Despite his confusion, something deep inside him knew that this might be the last moment they would share, and that possibility filled him with a subtle but penetrating unease.

The way Mina avoided his gaze at the end, how sadness and determination intertwined in her goodbye, only added layers to her enigma. Kyran wanted to ask, wanted to stop time and unravel her every word, but he found himself paralyzed by an unknown fear. Fear not only of what she might be facing, but of the depth of the feelings she was awakening in him.

As Mina walked away, Kyran stood there, holding the keys to the Aether Cruiser ZX-250, a gift laden with unspoken meaning. The sense of loss was already setting in, even before she disappeared from view. In her silence, a whirlwind of unresolved emotions engulfed him, leaving him with more questions than answers, all revolving around Mina, the woman who had challenged his ability to read between the lines.

He decided to get up and go out to the yard, where the Aether Cruiser ZX -250 was already ready and prepared to be driven. He turned to take one last look at the house, harboring the hope that one day they could meet again in the near future. Then, he walked to the car, opened the door and got in. At first glance, the vehicle did not seem difficult to drive. He put the key in and pressed a button that he assumed was the ignition button. Immediately, the car came to life, and a female voice greeted him:

—Greetings, pilot. I am Aether, your cosmic travel companion. Preparing systems for adventure. Where are we headed today?

—We're going to the Stardawn Hotel, — Kyran replied. The car began to move, handing control to Kyran and plotting the path on a monitor. As they drove forward, the road wound before them, unfolding in curves that resembled the ripples of a river. In the rearview mirror, the large house they were leaving behind began to look like a giant house. The road seemed to be getting smaller and smaller, its imposing structure becoming more distant with each turn of the road. It was as if, bend after bend, the memories of the place were being erased, moving them away from its dominant presence towards the unknown. The feeling of leaving one chapter behind to enter a new one became more and more palpable. Her thoughts

They were in it when suddenly he heard a very loud explosion that startled him. He tried to look in the rearview mirror and saw a lot of lead-colored smoke coming out, turning black.

—Aether, turn around. Let's go back to the house and deactivate the travel function.

—Disabling travel function, returning to house and changing travel route, — Aether's voice announced. Fortunately, the road was clear, with not many houses in the vicinity or traffic to slow them down. They arrived quickly only to find the house completely devastated, with nearby trees consumed by the fire and almost half of the structure gone to the flames.

Kyran hurriedly exited the vehicle, eager to search for Mina and hoping to find her alive. He entered the still-smoldering remains of the house, inspecting every corner for any sign of occupants, but the place was desolately empty. It seemed that Mina had managed to get the servants to evacuate before the tragedy occurred. Arriving at a living room with a peculiar window, he observed what appeared to be a watery liquid.

He tried to touch it, and though it only rippled upon contact, his curiosity led him to discover that it was a hologram of a large window. Upon further interaction, a secret door opened, revealing a descending stone staircase, illuminated by a torch that emitted a dim light.

Preferring his own resource, Kyran conjured with a wave of his hand a magical light to illuminate his path as he descended. At the bottom of the stairs, he found a hallway that led to another wooden door. This door opened onto a dirt path which he followed, eventually exiting the property.

As he tried to climb some vines towards a small hill, he managed to climb without difficulty. As he ascended, he heard voices in the distance; someone was giving orders to a group. Tension was palpable in the air as he prepared to face whatever came next.

Hidden behind a tree, Kyran watched as a person lying on the ground was being held at gunpoint. Although he could not clearly identify the person, the tension of the scene kept him motionless, until a cold metal touches his head.

— ¿Who are you? — a voice demanded from behind him. Turning, Kyran found himself staring at a young man of about 25, dressed in a familiar military outfit that he couldn't place. The young man was pointing a Pulsar LX-3080, an advanced laser weapon, at him. Without warning, the boy struck him in the stomach with the weapon, forcing him to his knees in pain. —I asked you: who are you?

—My name is Kyran, — he managed to say with difficulty, raising one hand in a sign of peace while holding his abdomen with the other. —I'm not armed. I came to see if I could help after hearing the explosion. I'm a Space Biochemical Engineer for Sustainable Agriculture; I study the vegetation and soil of this place.

It was then that a higher-ranking officer approached. —¿What's wrong, corporal? — asked a man with a dark complexion and dark hair.

—I found this civilian lurking around, Sergeant. He claims to be an engineer studying vegetation, — the young man reported, standing at attention in front of the Sergeant.

—Get up— the Sergeant ordered Kyran, who decided to cooperate without resistance, still with his hands up. —I was just checking if there were any wounded. I didn't imagine it was an official operation. I don't want to interfere with anything your job, Sergeant.

—You've done it, boy, — the Sergeant replied sternly. —You should never have come. Now, we'll have to take you with us along with the other prisoners.

—You heard the Sergeant, — the corporal said, pointing his gun at him. —Put your arms crossed behind your neck and walk. — Kyran gave him a look and obeyed without protest. He needed to find out Mina's whereabouts, especially if she had been captured. At that moment, his LumiCom beeped from his pocket. —¿What's that? — the young man exclaimed, alarmed.

—It's my LumiCom, — Kyran replied, turning slightly. —Let me turn it off, — he said, trying to reach down to pull it out. But the Sergeant acted faster, pulling the device out of Kyran's pocket, throwing it to the ground and crushing it with his foot until it was completely destroyed. Kyran watched, realizing that he had lost his last chance to communicate with his friends. Although he had hoped that the chip in his body would send a signal to his loved ones, now that chance seemed to fade away as well.

— Ready, — the Sergeant declared with cold finality. —Now no one will know what happened here. Keep walking. — Pushed lightly from behind, Kyran moved forward with his arms still crossed behind his neck. He was led to four other men; Mina was not among them. These men wore military uniforms of a different color than the Sergeant. Kyran was made to kneel, maintaining the same posture, while the Sergeant spoke into a LumiCom with someone else, receiving orders.

Meanwhile, Kyran was weighing his options for escape. He knew that staying could result in unpredictable consequences, and he didn't want to cause trouble for his father with his own lack of combat skills. Unlike his brothers, who were experts at dealing with rebels, assassins, and psychopaths, Kyran was first and foremost a scientist. Although he knew how to defend himself, thanks to the self-defense lessons he had always received, he was not a soldier. At this critical moment, he realized that he had to find a way to free himself without relying on military force, which he did not specialize in.

—We must take the prisoners, — said the Sergeant. —Open the portal, Soldier, — he ordered, addressing another young man who was manipulating a device capable of opening transport portals.

After entering the coordinates, a transporter portal opened. —Get up, rats, — the Sergeant ordered in an angry voice. —You must go through the portal now. — As the other prisoners rose to their feet in obedience to the order, Kyran slowly stood up, assessing his surroundings for an opportunity to escape.

He noticed that the guards were distracted, watching the other men entering the portal. Taking advantage of the moment, Kyran began a desperate run for freedom. —¡The prisoner is escaping! — one of the young men warned.

—Shoot him! — the Sergeant ordered. —¡He must not leave here alive! — Laser shots began to furrow the air as Kyran zigzagged, using the trees as shields. He ran with all his might until he found a hole hidden by the vegetation, covered by the branches of a large, leafy tree. The officers passed by, not noticing his hiding place, allowing Kyran a moment of respite in his frantic escape. He knew that he was there, if they found him there and only there, he would use his power to knock them out and be able to escape without problems.

He hid there for a few hours, hoping to make sure the danger had passed. As night fell, Kyran decided to come out of hiding and find his way back to the house, thinking the men would be thousands of miles away by now. His hope was to be able to get into the car and return to the hotel. Fortunately, the area was quiet, with no signs of guards or any other threat. He managed to get to the hotel without further setbacks to change his clothes. His friends, worried about him, were waiting for him. Hiro had managed to track his signal, thus avoiding having to alarm his father with news of his disappearance.

—¿What happened to you, Kyran? — Alexei asked, noticing his disheveled state.

—It was nothing important, — Kyran replied, trying to remain calm.

—Stop the nonsense, Kyran—Hiro intervened, worried. —Look at you, you're all dirty, and don't even think about how you're breathing so hard. Tell us what happened to you, you can't hide your anxiety from us.

Kyran knew he couldn't fool his friends. They knew him too well.

— Okay, — he finally relented. —I met an interesting woman and we went to her house. I spent the afternoon with her, and then she was going to bring me back to the hotel, but something came up and we got separated on the way. Anyway, her house blew up while I was walking away, and I went back to see if she was okay. That's when some military officers captured me. I managed to escape, and that's why I'm here.

—¿Military officers? — Hiro frowned. —Where were they from? Were they from this planet?

—I don't know, — Kyran admitted, frustrated. —I know I've seen those suits before, but I can't remember where.

—Looks like you ran into some rebels, buddy, — Alexei suggested, trying to lighten the mood.

—I don't think she was a rebel, — Hiro mused, turning serious for a moment. —Most military operations don't focus on small-time rebels. This indicates that you might have stumbled upon a mercenary or someone involved in larger matters. If a group of soldiers was looking for her, it must be for something significant…—

— You're right — Alexei conceded. — The important thing is that our friend is safe and sound. You were saved from that, Kyran. I don't want to even think about what we would have done if something happened to you; how we would explain that to your father without him killing us.

—That's right, — Hiro added, —I don't want to imagine what your family would have done with us.

—Hey, my family aren't monsters, — Kyran defended, slightly offended.

—We're not saying that, — Hiro clarified calmly. —But we know how close they are, and I wouldn't want to be in the shoes of someone who would hurt one of their own.

—The same goes if someone hurts one of our friends, — Kyran replied, acknowledging the loyalty they shared.

—You're right about that, — Alexei said, putting an arm around Kyran's neck in a brotherly gesture. Trying to be playful, he leaned in as if to kiss him on the lips. Kyran pushed him away roughly, giving him a shove.

— —Ugh, you disgusting, pervert, ¡what do you think you are!— Kyran exclaimed, clearly annoyed, while his friends burst out laughing. Despite the humor and jokes, the atmosphere was filled with a tangible relief at having Kyran safe, acknowledging the depth of their friendship and the unbreakable bond that united them.

Kyran was faced with a whirlwind of emotions and thoughts following his recent adventure. As he prepared to shower and change his clothes, he confessed an important wish to his friends, Hiro and Alexei: —What I do want is for no one in my family to know what happened here.

Hiro and Alexei exchanged glances before nodding, joining forces in their silence. —We don't want them to know either, — Hiro assured, finding in Alexei's complicity a tacit agreement.

—It's good that we all agree, — Kyran said, feeling relieved by his friends' support.

The conversation quickly turned to their immediate plans. —Well, we should get back then, — Hiro suggested, but Alexei, in a tone of complaint, recalled the original purpose of their trip. —¿Weren't we going on a five-day holiday?

Alexei's confusion was dispelled by Hiro's smile. —And, ¿who told you we weren't going to do it? — he challenged, causing Alexei to point accusingly at him before receiving the necessary clarification. —I said we were going back; we should plan where we're going now.

With the travel plan briefly on hold, Kyran announced his intention to take a shower, leaving Hiro in charge of looking up the next destination on a monitor that tracked hotels and spas on other planets.

Under the stream of water, Kyran tried to relax, but his mind inevitably wandered to Mina. Worry for her safety and well-being overwhelmed him, filling him with grim images of what might be happening to her. Mina's imprint on his mind, heart and soul was profound, leading him to reflect on his father's feelings towards his biological mother and his current wife.

However, he knew the consequences of sharing his adventure with his family. Revealing what had happened would mean losing his freedom, subjected to the constant surveillance of a bodyguard who would report his every move to his father. The idea of such surveillance repelled him, preferring to keep his experiences and feelings secret.

As he dressed, Kyran made a decision. He would keep his memories and emotions about Mina as deep as possible, promising himself that if they ever met again, he would ask her what exactly had happened that day. For now, he would focus on the trip with his friends, seeking in the adventure a temporary escape from his most turbulent thoughts.