CHAPTER 16

Two weeks had passed since the clashes with the insurgents. Terry and the Cosmic Architects were trying to mediate between the opposing councils, seeking an understanding that would ease the tensions of the conflict. However, progress was nil, and they still lacked the essential component for the Ætheris Gem to be integrated into their device, a crucial step to restore balance to the universe.

In her laboratory, Elara worked tirelessly, assisted by her uncle and her brother Sapphire, in the search for said component. With Kyran already out of the dome, he joined Elara's efforts, who sought to keep him distracted from the desolation and bitterness of a failed romance, preventing him from making impulsive decisions.

—Kyran, — Elara exclaimed excitedly, —I think we've finally found the component.

—¿Really, sister? — he replied, with a hopeful smile. Elara held out the microscope so he could examine the find up close. Kyran watched as the cell fused perfectly with the metal fragment.

— That's fantastic. With this, the process is complete. We can resolve the conflict that has so consumed our father and the Cosmic Architects.

With palpable joy, Elara shared, —Better yet, we can prevent the collapse of the universe and continue living here, — her voice reflecting deep happiness. Kyran, sharing the moment of joy, took her hands; both were excited to have contributed to the solution of a conflict that threatened to erupt.

—We need to inform the others so they can rebuild everything and get the device working, — Kyran suggested, excited by the prospect.

—Come on, — Elara agreed. —Let's take this to Lyra's lab and see what happens.

Arriving at the lab with the test tube containing the precious component, Elara's excitement was uncontainable. —Guess what, — she announced excitedly, —we've finally found the missing component.

—¿Really? — Caelum asked, his surprise mixing with admiration —That's wonderful, guys.

Curious, Lyra took the test tube and examined its contents under the microscope. —Exceptional, — she exclaimed as she watched the component bond to the metal without difficulty. —Fantastic, we can start assembling everything and get the Ætheris Gem working with the energy.

Caelum, in a tone of recognition, said, —With this, we can put an end to this war and any future conflict. You have accomplished something extraordinary. You should be proud.

—Thank you, — Kyran replied, smiling. Elara, for her part, radiated happiness, relieved at the possibility of peace. —I will let Ashtar, Sapphire, and the others know that we will begin testing this afternoon, — Caelum stated, sharing in the general joy. Anticipation of a peaceful and stable future filled the air, a testament to the ingenuity and determination of those committed to saving the universe.

The LumiCom echoed in Ashtar's lab, transmitting Caelum's message about the discovery of the crucial component. —In the afternoon, we must all meet. The meeting will be in Zephyra, specifically in the temple, in its underground part, to ensure that the process proceeds without interruptions or prying eyes, — Caelum reported.

—Perfect, we'll be there, — Ashtar said, turning to Sapphire, who nodded in agreement.

At the same time, Terry's LumiCom beeped, notifying him that he was also required to report to the underground temple that afternoon to participate in the experiments. —Okay, — Terry replied seriously. —I'll be there.

Everything was already prepared to take the last step, and the entire Whittaker family, both men and women, were there, in addition to Marcus, Aiden and Elian were attentive to what would happen in a few moments.

—The module is now complete, — Caelum announced, addressing Terry. —Now, we need Ætheris to manifest herself so that, with her power, she can merge with this machine and activate it.

—Understood, I'll proceed now—Terry replied, approaching the machine with determination.

Terry stood in front of the machine, concentration setting in on his face as he felt the energy of the Ætheris Gem vibrate within him. —It is time, Ætheris. Show yourself and join this creation, — he murmured in a voice that resonated not only in space, but also deep within him.

She closed her eyes, breathing deeply, and began to recite the words that would invite Ætheris to manifest:

From the core of my being,

where light and shadow meet,

I call upon you, Ætheris, jewel of the cosmos,

eternal spirit.

Through me, make yourself present,

reveal your true form,

emerging as the guardian that you are,

in vision and virtue.

For the bond we share,

I summon you to this plane,

so that your essence joins the machine,

in harmony and power.

Let your light transcend,

May your spirit materialize,

and as a woman of light,

walk among us, guide our hand.

As Terry spoke these words, a light began to emanate from his chest, expanding into the air in front of him. The light intensified, taking shape, until, before everyone's eyes, the figure of a splendid woman materialized. It was Ætheris, whose presence was as imposing as it was serene, emanating a force that filled the room with hope and admiration.

With a graceful, purposeful gesture, Ætheris stepped up to the machine. Reaching out her hands, she willed her energy into it, whispers of light and shadow dancing between her fingers until the machine came to life, pulsing with the power of a newfound balance.

—Thank you, Terry, — Ætheris said in a voice that seemed to sing with the wind, —together, we have taken the first step towards universal harmony. — With a final flash of light, he joined the machine, their essence and purpose now eternally intertwined.

This moment symbolizes the union of the human and the divine, marking the beginning of a new era of balance and hope thanks to the collaboration between Terry and Ætheris.

The energy has already been fully merged with the machine. Now, we must concentrate on directing that energy into space, so that it can encompass the entire universe. In this way, we will cleanse the corrupt and rotten, restoring the universe to a purer and more lasting state.

—Let's use a ship— Claudius suggested—It's the only way to find the right coordinates to reach every corner of the universe.

—Yes, but we will need a special ship so that it is not destroyed by the energy of the Ætheris Gem— commented Sapphire —While the energy is released, the ship must protect itself so that we can later return the Gem to its origin.

—We already have the necessary component— Elara mentioned. —It won't be difficult to design a ship capable of handling and distributing this energy without problems.

— Perhaps we could coat it with the component— Ashtar proposed.

—That wouldn't work—Sapphire interrupted—The contrast between the materials could result in their destruction during the process. The ship must be built by integrating the component from the start.

—You're right, nephew, — Ashtar acknowledged, reflecting on the situation while resting his chin on his right hand and holding his elbow with his left.

—It's time to build that ship— announced Lyra— Fellow scientists, let's return to the lab. We'll brainstorm, write them down on a whiteboard, and evaluate which is the best solution— Everyone nodded and set off for the lab, determined to merge their ideas and create a ship capable of supporting and distributing such a magnitude of energy.

As the others retreated, Terry remained in the cave, his gaze fixed on the device. The energy emanating from the core of the machine did not follow predictable, linear paths; instead, it flowed in patterns reminiscent of the dance of electrons around an atom.

Around the device's central core, energy vibrated, not in perfect circles, but in a series of ripples and fluctuations that seemed to follow the rules not of our macroscopic world, but of a quantum one.

It was as if each particle of energy was exploring all possible routes simultaneously, occupying a space that expanded and contracted in a rhythmic breath, creating interference patterns that glowed with an ethereal light.

Terry watched in fascination as, at a given moment, the energy seemed to coalesce into points of intensity before dispersing again, evoking the probabilistic nature of electron orbitals. It did not move in defined orbits, but rather manifested a kind of —cloud— of possibilities, where the exact position and momentum of the energy was indeterminate until observed directly.

This movement, though inspired by atomic theory, transcended ordinary understanding. It was a spectacle that recalled the delicate structure of matter itself, a representation of how even at the most fundamental level, the universe is a fabric of infinite possibilities.

The experience left Terry with a profound sense of wonder and a new appreciation for the unfathomable mysteries of nature. Energy, like the electrons inside an atom, danced in perfect balance between the known and the unknown, between certainty and probability.

Despite leaving, Terry felt that a part of himself was left behind in that cave, something intrinsic that he had always possessed and that now he felt was missing: that warmth that, at times, welled up in his chest was no longer present. Trying to find comfort in his own thoughts, he told himself that it must be the right decision. In the end, that something would return to him, once everything was resolved. It would rejoin the fragment of the Ætheris Gem, reestablishing the unity they had always shared.

As the days passed, the family's scientists set about searching for an alloy that would withstand the power of the gem without disintegrating. They needed to find an extremely strong and stable alloy. Thus, they began to examine each component and each particle tirelessly, in an urgent effort to find the necessary element. This search took on a highly urgent character because violence was spreading across different planets, leaving devastation and misery in its wake.

Although Terry no longer possessed the gem fragment and his power was no longer the same as when he was attached to it, he could still do certain things. However, he had lost his ability to regenerate his body cells. This forced him to be more cautious with his injuries, especially if enemies tried to mortally wound him.

Ætheris was no longer there to protect him as before, which is why Marcus would not leave him alone day or night. Likewise, his uncle Darius and his own brother Rodrick sent four additional guards despite Terry's disapproval.

Vicenzo entered Terry's office accompanied by the four guards, finding Terry with Darius and Marcus.

—¿What does this mean? — Terry asked, clearly annoyed.

—They are sent by your brother Rodrick, Your Excellency, — Vicenzo reported.

—Rodrick told me he was going to send them to you, — Darius said, —but I didn't think it would be so soon.

— I'll talk to him now. Where is my brother? — Terry asked Vicenzo.

—It's in His Most Illustrious Lordship Ashtar's laboratory, I think they're working on some device or something, Your Excellency.

—Okay, I'll go over there. So let me through,— Terry ordered the guards and Vicenzo, his assistant. Vicenzo knew that when his boss took that tone, it was best not to get in his way.

Now a confrontation far more intense than any battle they had ever been involved in was looming. When those two brothers argued, anything could be expected.

—Your Excellency, — Vicenzo said, following Terry down the hall, trying to calm his anger. —Please try to calm down. Remember that you still have some meetings pending and it is crucial that you keep a clear and calm mind for them.

Terry stopped and turned to face his assistant, frustration showing on his face. —¿Do you want me to calm down, Vicenzo? I'm in the middle of an all-out war and the future of the universe is at stake.

How do you expect me to stay calm when more and more people are getting in my way? I won't be able to take any action if I'm surrounded by an army behind me — I know, Your Excellency, and I understand it perfectly, but your brother is doing it for your own good. You cannot blame him for that either— Vicenzo told him, trying to make him understand the situation. —I only ask you to be kind to him.

—I'll be nice to my brother, — Terry replied with a smile.

—Please, Your Excellency— Vicenzo begged him—remember the last time you argued on Zenith. The computers almost collapsed from the energy released, not to mention the thrusters that keep this special station planet ran out of power and we all almost fell.

Terry had forgotten about that incident, which happened a few years ago, when his brother intervened in imperial actions to resolve a conflict without being invited. That day they had a very strong altercation, and they had to resort to their mother to intervene between them and calm them down.

—It's okay, — Terry said, —don't worry, nothing like that will happen this time. I just want to make my brother understand that I don't need his guards.

Vicenzo was able to breathe calmly again. —Thank you, Your Excellency, — he said, although he became alarmed again when Terry added that he would do it his way.

—Your Excellency, please, — Vincenzo said, following him, while Marcus and Darius ran to keep up, showing their concern. It was known that when brothers faced each other, it always caused alarm.

Entering Ashtar's lab, Terry found Rodrick in conversation with Ashtar. They both turned to see Terry enter. It was Ashtar who stepped forward to greet him.

— How are you, brother? — Ashtar said with a smile. Noticing Vicenzo making worried gestures and seeing Marcus and Darius behind him, he realized that something was up.

—I'm not okay, Ashtar— Terry replied—Let me through.

—Calm down, Terry. Whatever you want to talk about, do it calmly— Ashtar tried to calm him down, placing his hands on Terry's forearms. But when he received one of those angry looks from Terry, something Ashtar knew well and feared, he got goosebumps, without any hesitation. know how to help the situation. To make matters worse, Rodrick stepped forward to speak.

—¿What's wrong, brother? — Rodrick asked, holding a clipboard with scientific notes that Ashtar had passed to him.

—¿And you're still asking what's wrong with me, Rodrick? — Terry replied, clearly angry.

—Yeah, right, — Rodrick said, looking down a little and reflecting on the guards he had sent while touching his chin. —You're upset about the guards I sent you. I understand, you're throwing a tantrum about it.

—This isn't a tantrum, Rodrick. I want you to take them to your unit right now, — Terry shouted.

—I won't, — Rodrick said authoritatively, in that commanding voice he used when giving orders. —If you don't like it, I don't care, brother. It's so nothing happens to you. If you want, you can scream,

Kick and cry all you want, but I won't make them return to the unit. They will follow you wherever you go, even if they have to, they will sleep with you.

— I hate you — Terry shouted.

—Hate me all you want, but you won't be without them— Rodrick said.

—Take them immediately, — Terry told him.

—No, — Rodrick replied.

—Guys, please control yourselves, — Ashtar said to both of them.

Terry and Rodrick looked at him with that withering look, as if they wanted to kill him. —Ok, don't hold back. How about I leave you two alone so you can fix this problem. I think they're calling me.

Ashtar said, trying to get out of his own laboratory, which looked more like a battlefield than a research site. He didn't want to be there for what happened next. The screams were deafening, heard from outside even though the doors were already closed.

Elara and Sapphire arrived, alarmed by the screams. —¿What's going on? — Elara asked.

—It's Rodrick and Terry arguing—Marcus said.

—Oh no— Safiro said—Now we are in trouble. We need to check the computers and the power status, and start with the backup power source. Vincenzo, let's check on them—

—Right away, Your Highness, — said Vicenzo.

—Try to get those two to separate—said Sapphire.

—And how do you want us to do it? — asked Darius. —You know very well that we do not have enough power to make them both separate.

—Not even Ethan or his father can do it— Marcus said. —We'll have to call the mother; it's the only way.

—Do what you have to do— Sapphire said—We can't afford to lose information and energy. If you don't find my grandmother, finally, throw sedative darts at them or whatever— As soon as she said this, Kyran, Dennis, Lyra and Elio arrived.

—¿What's going on? — Lyra asked, worried.

—My uncle Rodrick and my father are locked in a fight—Elara said, worried.

—Again—Kyran commented—Last time, things really got tough because of that fight—

—Kyran, come with me— Safiro told him—We're going to check the power source and the computers.

— Okay, Kyran replied, and they ran off there, along with Vicenzo.

—Wait, we need to understand the situation better— Elio said. —Why is it so serious that they are arguing?

—You'll see now, — Marcus explained, showing him how the power was already beginning to fluctuate, with intermittent cuts.

—Their conflict is causing fluctuations in energy; if they continue like this, this station could collapse in minutes— Lyra explained. —It is vital to calm them down.

—Fine, I'll go in and try to talk to them, — Elio proposed, heading for the door, but Lyra stopped him.

— You can't, brother. It could make things worse— Lyra warned.

—Why? Explain to me— Elio asked.

—Remember that, together with Caelum, we created the Ætheris Gem using quantum energy, among other molecular and atomic components, including psionic energy. This gem has the power to restructure the universe or create things out of nothing. Its.

—Their strength is immense, although we possess a similar power. However, if you intervene using your energy, you could cause the collapse of this orbital station, and even open a black hole that swallows us all, — Lyra explained.

—Then I feel helpless. ¿Is there no way to appease them? — Elio lamented.

—¿Is there any way to calm the situation down? — Darius asked.

—The only way, — Lyra replied, —is with sedatives. We can release sedatives in smoke or inject them, so that their energies are minimized. If they fall asleep, they won't be able to do any harm. There's probably a cluster of energy around them that could throw us out of the room; I'm sure everything in there has already exploded.

—So how do we do it? — Elara asked.

—That's the problem, — Elio said. —¿How did all this start?

—Rodrick sent four guards to guard Terry—Marcus reported.

—Ouch— Elio commented—that makes sense, given Terry's independence. Having you two is enough.

—Excuse me, — Darius interceded.

—Don't get me wrong, — Elio apologized, trying to clarify his point. —You guys are constantly after him, even for minor things. Imagine how he must feel. I know it's your duty to protect him. After all, he holds a very high position, he's the Supreme Imperial and possessor of a fragment of the most powerful gem in the universe. Now, without it, he's vulnerable. But try to imagine, just for a moment, how he feels about losing the freedom he once had. He can't go wherever he wants anymore or be alone anywhere. Obviously, he feels like a prisoner, even if he doesn't say it and even if he understands it. No one would want to be in his place, not even me, who is also a soldier like you.

Marcus and Darius looked at each other, understanding Elio's point.

—I understand you, — Marcus said. —It's understandable what Terry is going through and how he feels. However, this situation is beyond the usual norms. Sometimes, my friend is just as stubborn as his brother.

Rodrick, which has also helped him get to where he is now. Only...— He stopped when Darius interrupted him.

—Only now we are in a situation where security outweighs the need for personal freedom— Darius interrupted. —We understand Terry's desire for independence and space, but the current circumstances, especially his vulnerability without the gem, demand extraordinary measures.

Elio nodded, understanding the delicate balance between protection and personal freedom. —The point is to find a way to ensure that protection without suffocating him, — he mused aloud.

—Exactly, — Marcus said. —Perhaps we need to rethink our strategy and look for less intrusive, but equally effective, methods to ensure their safety.

The discussion then turned to how to address the immediate situation with Rodrick and Terry. Lyra took up the initial idea. —Let's get back to the problem of calming them down. If the confrontation between them is creating such a high risk, we must act quickly with the sedatives. We can use drones to disperse a sedative in the form of a gas, thus avoiding the risk of getting too close—

—It's a good idea, — Elara said. —We minimize the risk for everyone and avoid a potential disaster.

With the plan in place, the group moved to carry out the intervention. Meanwhile, they continued to contemplate ways to balance security needs with Terry's desire for freedom, recognizing that the long-term solution would require dialogue, understanding, and perhaps adjustments in the way protection was provided.

—I have the drones, — Ashtar announced.

—And I have the sedatives, — Elara said, showing them.

— Well, let's see how we get them in without being affected by the energy they both emanate— Lyra indicated, while Elara loaded the drones with the sedatives and Ashtar controlled them with the remote control. Upon opening the door, Lyra found a flow of energy that engulfed the entire laboratory, objects floating in the air as the two men lay on the ground, locked in intense hand-to-hand combat, exchanging blows and gravity-defying moves in a dance of power and agility.

—Here go the drones, — Ashtar said, directing them into the lab. The drones, facing difficulties in their flight, momentarily lost altitude before recovering, finally managing to position himself in the center of the laboratory and release the sedative gas.

Lyra pressed a button to seal the laboratory door as the gas spread throughout the room. Rodrick and Terry began to feel an overwhelming exhaustion and could not resist the urge to sleep. Rodrick, who was on top, collapsed to the side, while Terry fainted due to the effect of the sedative. Lyra, watching the clock, indicated the opportune moment.

— It should have taken effect by now — she said, reopening the doors. Both men lay asleep on the floor, while floating objects fell thunderously, damaging laboratory equipment such as test tubes, among other things. Lyra used her ability to neutralize the gases and prevent damage, as well as to restore heavy equipment to its original position.

Elara looked at Rodrick, noticing marks on his face and blood coming from his lips and nose, while Elio noticed the same in Terry. Both of their clothes were torn, a testament to the intensity of the energy and the blows exchanged.

—When they get angry, they definitely don't hold back— Elio commented.

—Now we need to get them to the infirmary to treat their wounds and make sure they're okay, — Ashtar proposed, using a health scanner to check their vital signs and confirm they were within normal parameters. Just then, the floating stretchers, called —Levitasan, — designed for the aerial transport of patients, arrived. These stretchers, using anti-gravity technology, allowed Rodrick and Terry to be transported smoothly, without aggravating their conditions. The —Levitasan— were equipped with integrated diagnostic systems to continue monitoring vital signs during the transfer, guaranteeing immediate and effective care.

In the bright infirmary, under the soft hum of the lights, Rodrick and Terry were delicately accommodated inside the CRRA domes, recovery capsules that seemed straight out of a science fiction novel. These technological marvels not only promised to heal their wounds with not only were they astonishingly efficient, but they also ensured thorough monitoring of any internal damage, all while they remained in a restful sleep. In this way, they ensured that the two titans were temporarily kept apart, preventing any further flare-ups of their fierce rivalry.

—¿Did you see their fists? They looked like they had decided to defy the very laws of physics, — Elio asked, with a mix of wonder and amusement, as he watched his fighters resting.

—Of course, — Lyra replied, her tone as serene as the calm sea. To her, the scene was just another day in the universe.

—But, ¿what magic have you infused into the gem to forge such titans? — Elio insisted, still marveling at the spectacle of strength displayed.

Lyra gave him a look full of mystery and ancient wisdom. —You already know the answer, brother. Our experiments have pushed the boundaries of what is imaginable. This... this is just the beginning, — she said, her voice tinged with a calmness that contrasted with the intensity of the events.

As the brothers looked out at the CRRA domes, an air of anticipation filled the room. The infirmary had become a stage where science and mystery danced together, promising new adventures and challenges on the horizon. For now, Rodrick and Terry rested, but what new stories would they write once they awoke?

Elio watched with fascination and a touch of unease the aftermath of the confrontation. Those fists seemed out of this world; heavy as if they were forged from metal, and the knuckles, although marked by battle and some blood, showed hardly any bruises.

The skin of both of them, despite their natural appearance, had a hard texture, almost as if it were coated in metal. —I wouldn't even like to imagine the weight of those bones or the force of their blows. I definitely wouldn't want to be in the place of someone who receives one of those punches,— he said, unable to hide his astonishment and alarm.

Lyra looked at the CRRA domes with a penetrating gaze, as if she could see beyond the obvious. —It had to be this way. Ætheris designed her creations to be resilient, to withstand the passage of time without decaying or suffering damage.

Fortunately, Terry has managed to maintain the strength of his skin and bones, despite no longer possessing the gem fragment. If Rodrick, who still has his fragment, had decided, he could have caused much greater damage—he explained with a voice full of knowledge and serenity.

Elio, deep in thought, finally articulated a suspicion. —So…—

—Exactly, that's just what you're thinking, — Lyra interrupted, reading his mind. —Rodrick moderated his strength, fully aware that his brother is without the shard. He could have inflicted serious injuries, even leaving him in a coma with a single full-force blow. What he did was basically defend himself, adjusting his power so that it only seemed like he was fighting one of his regular soldiers.

This revelation shed light on the complexity of their brotherly bond; even in the heat of battle, the underlying protection and care between them remained intact, woven into the very fabric of their conflict.

—That suggests that perhaps Rodrick understood that his brother was going through a period of great pressure and needed to release that pent-up energy. What we witnessed was a sibling confrontation, which, from a certain perspective, is quite common. Even we have had our disputes or faced each other physically— Lyra mused, adding depth to the moment— Between siblings, it's natural have differences; we don't always see eye to eye. And as you mention, Rodrick could have allowed those blows consciously,

pointing out that there is more than just a fraternal bond between them: a unity and loyalty that transcend conventional boundaries—Elio, astonished, had never witnessed such a display of values in other environments. The gem, somehow, had forged a family with solid moral and ethical principles, an astonishing revelation.

—Once we resolve this universal conflict, I will devote time to researching more about Ætheris, — Lyra announced with determination.

— Together with Caelum, we must delve deeper into its study. It seems to have reached a level of understanding and ability that surpasses anything we imagined. After so much time in solitude, it is crucial to discover how it acquired knowledge that we did not impart to it and to explore the limits of its power. There are aspects of the gem that we still do not know.

—Indeed, there is much more to learn about the powers of the gem, — Elio agreed, deep in thought.

Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of Francisco Javier and his wife Helena, as well as the young men's wives, Zahori and Itzumi.

—¿How is everyone? — Helena asked with genuine concern, entering the room and offering a respite of normality and human warmth amidst the extraordinary situation surrounding them.

In the halo of light filtering through the infirmary, the arrival of Ashtar and Sapphire brought a whisper of calm to the palpable tension. Francisco Javier and the ladies present adjusted their posture to better receive the news, a silent declaration of the importance of the moment.

— They're recovering, — Lyra assured, noticing the presence of the newcomers. Her voice, though calm, could not hide the weight of the situation.

—There is no cause for concern, — Ashtar intervened authoritatively. —Their vital signs are stable; they are resting now, and we will keep them that way until we are sure that the storm has passed and there is no danger of the disputes resuming.

A murmur of discord then emerged between Itzumi and Zahori, reflecting their husbands' conflict. Accusations flew, charged with the same intensity that had characterized Terry and Rodrick's confrontation.

—Terry must have started this whole mess, — Itzumi hinted, casting a knowing glance at Zahori, who was quick to reply with equal intensity.

—Your husband must have done something to provoke such a reaction from mine. Still, he surely deserved it, — Zahori countered.

The atmosphere in the infirmary suddenly changed with Helena's firm intervention. With an innate authority and the serenity that characterized her, she stood between Itzumi and Zahori, stopping the imminent clash of wills.

—Enough, ladies. This is neither the time nor the place. — Her voice, though soft, carried a weight that brooked no reply. At that moment, everyone present understood that the line had been crossed, and that the consequences would be immediate.

Helena continued, —This behavior not only diverts our attention from what is truly important, but also threatens the harmony of our family. As such, I have decided that it would be best for both of you to reflect on your actions in a quiet, isolated space.

Itzumi and Zahori's gazes, filled with defiance moments before, softened under Helena's scrutiny. It was clear that the punishment went beyond a simple verbal reprimand; it required concrete action.

— Therefore, — Helena continued, —you will be confined to your respective quarters at Whittaker Castle. This is not a punishment, but rather an opportunity to meditate on the strength that lies in unity and mutual understanding. You will remain there until you feel that you have understood the lesson and are ready to act as the pillars of support that your husbands need, especially at times like this.

With these words, Helena conjured two portals, each leading to the respective lady's chambers in the imposing Whittaker Castle. The castle, known for its beauty and grandeur, would serve as a setting for her introspection and growth.

—Yes, mother, — both women said, their tone reflecting a mixture of resignation and understanding, acknowledging the wisdom in Helena's decision. With slow but sure steps, they crossed the portals that closed behind them, sealing their commitment to the imposed process of reflection.

Helena's decision not only demonstrated her commitment to maintaining peace within the family, but also her belief in the power of personal reflection as a tool for growth and reconciliation. In the silence of their rooms, Zahori and Itzumi would find the necessary space to contemplate the importance of their roles within this intricate web of relationships, hoping that, in the end, they would emerge stronger and more united than ever. The conversation then turned to the origin of the conflict. —¿Is it true that it all started because Rodrick decided to send more guards? — Helena asked, seeking to understand the root of the disagreement.

—It would seem so, Mother, — Ashtar confirmed, offering a glimpse into the complexities that wove this familiar narrative. As the dust of conflict settled and the portals closed behind Zahori and Itzumi, attention returned to the main topic: the consequences of Terry and Rodrick's actions.

—Terry has always been impulsive, but this time… I really worry about the direction his decisions are taking,— Helena said, her voice tinged with a mix of frustration and concern. Her gaze, lost in some distant point, reflected the complexity of her emotions as a mother.

Lyra, always the voice of reason in the midst of the storm, tried to lighten the mood. —We all know how heavy the burden Terry carries on his shoulders is. This act, although hasty, is still a reflection of that pressure. It does not justify, but it does explain his behavior, — she said, trying to offer a more compassionate perspective on the situation.

Francisco Javier, until then a silent observer, intervened. —Helena, darling, remember what we were like at your age. Our mistakes were also monumental. That is why we must guide them, not only with reproaches, but with understanding and support.

Helena sighed, the wisdom of Francisco's words sinking in. —You're right, Javier. It's just that… I fear for them. This universe isn't the same as when we were young. The stakes are higher, and mistakes can have more severe consequences.

Ashtar, who had been listening to the conversation, added, —That is precisely why we work tirelessly. To protect them, to guide them, and when necessary, to correct course. Terry and Rodrick are strong, but together, as a family, we are invincible.

Safiro nodded, supporting Ashtar's words. —And let us not forget, unity is strength. These moments of tension are also opportunities to strengthen our bonds and remind ourselves of what truly matters.

The conversation among those present became a balm for the wounds opened by the conflict. Although worries persisted, the shared commitment to support each other provided invaluable comfort. In this circle of loved ones, each with their own perspective and wisdom, a network of support was woven that promised to overcome any challenge that fate presented them.

The conversation turned to speculation about the brothers' recovery. —¿How long will it take? — Francisco Javier asked, reflecting their shared concern.

Safiro's response, measured and thoughtful, hung in the air, marking a moment of contemplative pause among those present.

—I understand the need for caution— Francisco Javier began, seeking clarity in the veil of uncertainty that Safiro had presented—But, ¿can we do something else to speed up his recovery? ¿Any other treatment or...?

Sapphire, with the patience of a master explaining a complex concept to his student, replied, —The nature of your injuries, both physical and emotional, requires care that goes beyond conventional treatments. We have placed you under an induced state of rest to allow your bodies and minds to heal at their own pace. Intervening more aggressively could backfire.

Helena, nodding, added, —The important thing now is to give them space and time. The peace they need to heal completely will come from inside, with a little help from science and, of course, our unconditional support.

Lyra, ever observant, looked at the others and said, —Perhaps we could consider this as an opportunity to reflect on how we can improve as a family. Learn from what happened and become stronger not only for ourselves, but for them as well.

Ashtar, recognizing the wisdom in Lyra's words, concluded, —Exactly. While they rest, we can work on strengthening the bonds that unite us, ensuring that when they awaken, they will find not only a family waiting for them, but also a more understanding and united environment.

The conversation, filled with suggestions and reflections, became a silent vow of commitment and hope. Although Terry and Rodrick's path to recovery was still to be defined, the commitment of their family and loved ones to support them every step of the way ensured that, regardless of the challenges ahead, Whittaker Castle would always be a haven of love, understanding and unity.

In the warm glow of the room, with emotions still floating like dust particles in a ray of sunlight, Lyra brought to the conversation a revelation that changed the tone from concern to one of deep reflection.

—Despite everything— he began, capturing everyone's attention—Rodrick chose not to hurt Terry.

Helena, curiosity painted on her face and a hint of concern that she could not hide, turned to Francisco Javier before asking, —¿What do you mean by that?

Lyra, with the serenity of someone who knows the secrets of the universe, explained, —Rodrick had the power to cause much greater damage to Terry, especially now that Terry does not have the fragment that gave him his ability to regenerate. Terry's energy, moreover, has diminished to worrying levels, now comparable to that of an ordinary human magician, far from the power he used to have. In contrast, Rodrick, strengthened by his own fragment, could have inflicted wounds of catastrophic consequences, to the point of plunging Terry into a coma from which he might never wake up, if he had decided to use all his power.

He paused, letting his words sink in, before continuing, —Yet he didn't. That restraint, that decision to suppress his strength, says a lot about him. Rodrick understood better than anyone what his brother was going through. He let himself be hit, but he only defended himself, never attacking with the intent to hurt. His blows were measured, seeking to soothe rather than punish.

The silence that followed was a testament to the complexity of brotherly relationships, a mosaic of loyalty, love and, at times, conflict. But above all, there prevailed an unspoken understanding, an indelible connection that even in the most turbulent moments, refused to break.

Helena and Francisco Javier exchanged glances, finding unexpected comfort in Lyra's words. Lyra's perspective not only eased the weight of worry they had carried, but also reminded them of the strength and love that nestled at the core of their family.

—That... that's extraordinary, — Helena murmured, a new respect for Rodrick blossoming in her heart.

—It is further proof that, despite the adversities, the bond between them remains unbreakable, — added Francisco Javier, his voice tinged with pride.

In that instant, everyone in the room realized that despite the trials and tribulations, the family would always find a way to overcome, united by bonds stronger than any magic. And in that unity, they found not only the strength to face the world, but also the light to guide them through the darkness.

In the atmosphere still permeated by the recent revelations and shared emotions, Safiro spoke up, her tone reflecting both determination and underlying concern. —Regardless, it will be necessary for you to remain here a few more days, to ensure that you fully recover and find the peace you so desperately need, — she began, capturing everyone's attention. —Now, more than ever, we must focus on our main task: finding a solution that will allow us to resolve the universal conflict that looms over us. We cannot afford to be distracted by internal disputes, when a war of unknown proportions is approaching.

The seriousness of his words resonated with those present, who nodded silently, recognizing the magnitude of the situation they faced. The room, filled with leaders, scientists, magicians and warriors, became a crucible of resolve and unity.

Helena, ever the concerned matriarch but also a warrior in her own right, added with a hint of hope in her voice, —So let us use this time as an opportunity. While Terry and Rodrick heal, we will strengthen our strategies and reinforce our bonds. Not just as a family, but as allies in this fight that awaits us.

Francisco Javier, whose experience in battle had taught him the value of preparation and unity, nodded resolutely. —Exactly. Every moment of calm before the storm must be used to better prepare ourselves. Our enemies will not rest, and we cannot afford to either.

Lyra, whose wisdom and power were acknowledged by all, stood up, spreading her hands in a gesture of unity.

—So let us work together, as we always have. Let us use our knowledge, our skills, and our magic to devise a plan that will lead us not only to victory, but also to lasting peace.

Determination spread through those present, and one after another, they joined Lyra's gesture, forming a circle of power and promise. Sapphire's words had not only served as a reminder of the challenges they faced, but also as a catalyst to reaffirm their common commitment.

—With the strength of our will and the depth of our love,— Ashtar concluded, his voice ringing with authority and conviction, —we will face whatever comes, together. And along the way, we will find the answers we seek.

Thus, on Zenith, this planet of technological wonders and nerve center of universal defense, our heroes come together in spirit and purpose. United in their commitment, they face the dark veil of the future with the light of their determination and hope, ready to challenge the shadows with the brilliance of their unity. The space station, with its advanced technology and strategic position, is not not only a witness to their struggle, but also a reminder of what they are fighting to protect: a universe where peace and harmony can triumph over chaos and destruction.