CHAPTER 19

—Only this ship can carry eight passengers—Terry pointed out, thinking about the logistics of the mission—You will have to decide who you take, if it is for your personal guard or mine—

—Don't worry about it, brother, — Rodrick replied with a certainty that removed any doubt. —I'll be taking my own personal ship, in which I'll carry soldiers just in case we need them. Or ¿do you think I'd go to war without weapons? — A smile spread across his face, offering Terry a glimpse of his determination and cunning.

Terry looked at him, suddenly remembering Rodrick's essence – —I had forgotten that he is, above all, a warrior and a strategist— – he thought – Okay – he said out loud – Bring your ship here so they can equip it.

—It's already equipped, — Rodrick revealed, anticipating his brother. —It's waiting in the hangar along with your ship.

—¿But how? — Terry found himself baffled, wondering how Rodrick was able to

so much of his plans, especially when he was supposed to be sleeping.

—You're probably wondering how I found out about everything you were going to do— Rodrick said, reading Terry's mind with a smile. —It's easy. I ordered my men to inform me of any event, no matter the time, especially if you were going to do something as stupid as going out into outer space in the middle of the night.

—I suppose that even if I regain my royal power, you still won't remove your men as guardians to protect me. You'll still keep them by my side, — Terry said, his voice tinged with resignation, muttering under his breath. He was aware that this arrangement would be a constant, a reminder that his complete freedom would now be even more limited, especially after his brother's confession of concern.

—You're right, little brother, I won't take them away from you, — Rodrick said, directing a knowing look at Terry. His tone reflected an unwavering commitment, a promise of protection that went beyond normal obligations. —Now, let's march, — he said, taking Terry by the arm to lead him.

— I can walk by myself, — Terry replied, gently letting go. Though he was secretly grateful for his brother's concern, he also longed to preserve his sense of independence.

—Thank you, — he added, his tone seeking to balance gratitude with affirmation of his own ability. With that, he headed toward the ships, ready to face whatever the vast universe had in store for them, knowing that despite any past differences or friction, family remained their backbone, their constant amidst the vastness of space.

Ætheris Gem was and had sent those coordinates to her uncle Rodrick's ship so that they could follow her. They were already on their way by means of the hyperdrive and were able to arrive without problems much faster. Apparently, everything was fine, they did not see that the ship had any damage or that they had attacked it.

—No damage is visible, — Safiro said, looking at the monitors on her panel. —It seems that everything is in perfect condition and the gem is fine.

—I know, Terry said, but there's still something I don't like.

Maybe it's your desire for everything to end soon so that you can be together again, — said Rodrick, staring at the ship from the window. — Even so, we must be prepared in case an attack were to occur. Space pirate attacks have been known to happen in these areas.

—¿How do you know, uncle? – Safiro asked curiously – if in fact your unit spends more time on the ground than in space.

—You weren't the only one who went out on your ship looking for your father, — Rodrick said, looking at Terry. —One learns about star maps by force and also by getting into trouble for entering borders where said pirates are located.

I'm surprised that you bought a ship - said Sapphire - considering that you were the most reluctant because you were no less interested in space travel.

Yes – answered Rodrick – boy, watch the monitors and don't stick your nose into things that don't concern you – said Rodrick, annoyed by his nephew's sharp tongue because he had spoken too much, and he went to one side of the ship to stay there with his arms crossed, lowering his head and looking towards the

floor, he hated it when his nephew read his emotions, he was the only one who always read him so well and knew what was happening to him, that's why sometimes he had him as his confidant.

Terry wanted to go talk to his brother, but he preferred not to, it was not a good time, he knew very well that his brother was not going to let him get close at such a vulnerable moment, he had to wait for it to pass so they could talk to him without problems. He was thinking about that while he looked out into space when he saw a ship approaching and it was not a ship from the Galactic Federation or the Concilium Imperium Stellaris.

—We have company, — Sapphire said, —and from what I see, — she said, showing the ship on the central screen, —it's not from any known location and has the space pirate signal. This is their personal symbol, — she said, showing the symbol of a skull with cybernetic enhancements, glowing eyes, and crossed lightsabers or futuristic weapons behind it, all on a dark background that accentuated its menacing appearance, with stars or a nebula in the background that refers us to space. In the throbbing heart of unknown space, the Galactic Federation ship hummed with an electrical tension. Rodrick, its commander, a man whose determination was reflected in the shine of his eyes, took the initiative with a firm decision.

— We're going to arm this ship to the teeth — he declared in a voice that brooked no reply — because, my friends, confrontation is almost a certainty — With a decisive gesture, he activated his LumiCom, establishing direct communication with the sergeant in charge of the arsenal — Sergeant, listen to me carefully — his voice was as clear as crystal — make sure the weapons are ready and within reach. We are stalked by space pirates and we may have to defend ourselves in hand-to-hand combat.

—Understood, Commander, — the sergeant replied, his voice filled with the same seriousness. He moved efficiently, directing his team to be prepared for whatever was coming.

In the midst of preparations, an unexpected call cut through the tension like a knife. Sapphire, ever agile and attentive, captured the incoming signal, relaying it to the main monitor. The image of the pirate leader materialized before them, a bold smile adorning his face.

—Welcome to my domain, intrepid travelers, — he began, his voice as unctuous as dark velvet. —I am Gaius Julius Maximus, the self-proclaimed Emperor of Stellar Anarchy. Tell me, ¿what winds bring you to these shores?

Terry, with a mixture of caution and curiosity, stepped forward. —We appreciate your... hospitality, Mister Maximus. We are representing the Galactic Federation on a scientific reconnaissance mission. We are seeking unclaimed planets to catalogue.

Gaius, with a theatrical gesture, stroked his chin, the wheels of his mind clearly turning. —Ah, the Galactic Federation, — he mused aloud. —How fascinating. However, I fear that your time here comes at a price.

Safiro frowned, confused. —Forgive me, but we are not aware of such a fee. We are merely scientists; we are not carrying anything of value.

—I'm sure I'll find something of value among their belongings, — Gaius insisted, with a flash of greed. —They have three ships; one must contain something they can compensate with.

Trying to divert the pirate's attention, Sapphire quickly intervened, —The first ship houses only scientific equipment.

—We'll inspect it anyway, — Gaius said, ordering his crew to prepare for boarding.

Terry interjected, his tone warning. —That would be a mistake. We have defenses in place to prevent unauthorized access. It would be better for everyone if we could avoid that inconvenience.

—Ingenious, — Gaius conceded, changing tactics. —Then we will anchor to your ship. Prepare to receive us.

Safiro nodded, aware of the risk. —It seems we have no other choice. But let's proceed with caution so as not to arouse suspicion about the cargo of the first ship.

Rodrick, who had been listening in silence, finally spoke with a crooked smile. —Let them in. I'll make sure to offer them a 'welcome' they won't forget, — he said, clenching his fist in a promise of action.

Thus, in the vastness of the cosmos, between strategies and dialogues full of tension, a story of cunning, bravery and challenges was woven. The crew of the Galactic Federation prepared not only to face the space pirates, but to leave an indelible impression on them.

In the cockpit, the tension was palpable, a thin thread vibrating to the rhythm of the crew's restless hearts. Terry, his voice calm but firm, pleaded for a peaceful resolution. —Let's try to resolve this without violence. Perhaps with diplomacy we can dissuade them, — he suggested, his gaze fixed on the vast starry space beyond the glass.

Rodrick, a mix of frustration and concern creasing his brow, looked at his brother. —¿Do you really think diplomacy will stop them, Terry? — he asked with a sigh. —Sometimes I wonder if you're too naive… or too idealistic. These criminals know no reason; they plunder and destroy without mercy. — Terry, in response, remained silent, aware of the danger posed by the space pirates, but with a firm determination to protect what was most valuable, even more than his own life.

Rodrick then turned to his loyal companions; his voice laden with an inescapable weight. —Prepare yourselves, — he ordered. —The pirates will come, and if we must fight and sacrifice everything to protect the gem, then so be it. — His words were echoed by the resolute determination of the two men at his side, who, with firm, decisive movements, took up their weapons.

Darius and Marcus also braced themselves, their bodies tense in anticipation of the impending confrontation, ready to defend their ship against any threat. The gate, the last bastion between them and the impending danger, would soon be the threshold to cross.

It was Sapphire who, clad in his white coat, symbol of his scientific purpose, approached the door. His peaceful appearance and clothing might, they hoped, project the image of a mission dedicated solely to exploration and knowledge, a veil of civility on the threshold of confrontation.

Thus, with the gate slowly opening, the crew of the Galactic Federation stood on the edge of uncertainty, waiting to face whatever came with courage, but with hope still vibrating in the air for a peaceful resolution to a dangerously charged encounter. At the heart of the galaxy, in a meeting between the light of science and the shadow of anarchy, a story of courage, diplomacy, and the tireless search for peace was being woven.

Gaius, his presence filling the room, strode forward with a confident stride, assessing each member of the Galactic Federation crew. His men, following his lead, surveyed their surroundings with watchful eyes, dressed in uniforms that reflected their loyalty and rank with dark shades of black and blue.

—We're just here on a planetary reconnaissance mission— Terry began, trying to project calm and conviction—We are, at our core, a fleet dedicated to science—As he spoke, one of Gaius' subordinates completed his inspection of the ship, returning to report that there was, indeed, nothing of exceptional value on board: only basic provisions and medical supplies.

One of the pirates, after having meticulously inspected the cargo, confirmed Terry's words. —It's true, — he announced, presenting evidence of his discovery. —They have nothing but food and medicine.

—Understood, — Gaius conceded, though not entirely satisfied. —Let's move on to the next ship then. ¿Who among you will accompany us?

Sapphire was about to volunteer, driven by a desire to protect and mediate, but it was Terry who took the initiative, perhaps motivated by a deeper responsibility. —I'll go, — he said firmly.

—Perfect, — Gaius replied, turning to return to his ship. Gaius' men positioned themselves, ready to guide Terry, when, unexpectedly, Rodrick, followed closely by

Darius and Marcus stepped forward, determined not to let their brother face the situation alone.

Gaius, surprised by the interruption, turned to face them, his brow furrowed slightly in disapproval. —Only one may accompany us, — he stated, making it clear that he would tolerate no challenges to his authority.

Rodrick, however, was not intimidated. —My brother will not go alone, — he declared in a voice that brooked no reply. —I will go with him. — The determination in his voice and the resolve in his stance made it clear that he was not a man to take no for an answer, especially when it came to the safety of his family.

The tension in the air was palpable, a spark threatening to ignite a fire in the vacuum of space. Gaius, with a glare that could cut through steel, challenged Rodrick, his irritation evident. — ¿Like this?— he replied, his tone laced with barely contained anger. —I am intrigued to know how you plan to confront me, young man.

Rodrick, however, was not to be intimidated. His response was cold disdain, a sign of his disapproval and defiance. —It wouldn't be the first time I've faced subjects of your caliber, — he said, repulsion

clear in her expression. A sudden movement from one of the pirates towards Rodrick was stopped short by Gaius, who, with a gesture, stopped any impending violence.

—Let him come, — Gaius said, a smile spreading across his face. —The boy has courage. I like him. — And with those words, the tension turned into a sort of twisted respect. —Come on then, follow us.

As Rodrick and Terry followed Gaius and his crew into the unknown, Sapphire, along with the other crew members left behind, closed the hatch in grim silence. Darius and Marcus exchanged worried glances, aware of the danger lurking, while Sapphire rushed to monitor the situation from the ship's central panel.

On Zephyra, headquarters was already aware of the developments, thanks to Safiro's previous updates. They watched with bated breath, ready to intervene if necessary.

The ship containing the precious Ætheris Gem was anchored, and the doors opened, revealing the interior to the curious eyes of Gaius and his crew. Thanks to the cameras and microphones installed, both the

crew on the Sapphire ship as the observers on Zephyra could see and hear everything.

—As you can see, there's nothing of value here, — Terry said, strategically positioning himself between Gaius and the shining secret they so desperately sought to hide.

—¿What's that behind you? — Gaius asked, his curiosity piqued by the glow Terry was trying to hide.

—It's just a prototype for plant growth, a chemical compound of vital importance to us, — Terry tried to explain, although his nervousness was evident.

Gaius, unsatisfied with the explanation, pushed Terry aside, an action that Rodrick quickly countered to prevent his brother from falling. —This looks less like chemical compounds and more like a gem shard, — Gaius observed, his gaze alternating between the two brothers, filled with suspicion and renewed interest.

At that moment, the tension was not only between those facing each other on the ship, but also between all those watching, holding their breath at the possible revelation of the Ætheris Gem and the

consequences that would follow. Cunning and courage would be the only allies in this delicate dance of truths and lies.

In a desperate attempt to preserve the secret of the Ætheris Gem, Terry resorted to persuasion, his forced smile attempting to project calm amidst the rising whirlwind of tension. —It has a peculiar appearance, yes, like a gem shard, but I assure you, it is simply a chemical compound, — he explained, his voice tinged with waning hope.

However, Terry's words only fueled the greed in Gaius' eyes. —It will be ours, — he declared coldly, motioning for his men to seize the precious gem. In a reflex action, Terry tried to intervene, but was roughly pushed aside by one of the pirates. Rodrick, for his part, was not about to let the situation get out of hand without a fight, engaging another of Gaius' men in an impromptu combat.

Chaos broke out in seconds. Gaius' order to open fire on the other ships transformed space into a dizzying battlefield, filled with laser beams that wove a deadly web between the ships.

Rodrick's ship, in a desperate effort to join the fray and protect what mattered most, maneuvered through the crossfire until it managed to anchor itself to the main ship.

Meanwhile, on the ship, Terry and Gaius battled for control of the gem, a tug-of-war that ended with the precious object rolling into an improvised hiding place. At that critical instant, Gaius, taking advantage of the distraction, pinned Terry to the ground, his dagger pointed dangerously at the High Imperial's heart. Terry, determination and fear intertwined in his movements, fought frantically to repel the impending attack.

It was a moment that seemed to last forever, each second stretching out with the intensity of what was at stake. Laser flashes lit up the scene with a flickering glow, creating ghostly shadows that danced across the ship's walls. Rodrick's crew, finally gaining access to the interior, threw themselves into the conflict with a mixture of bravery and desperation, determined to turn the tide of the battle.

In this melee, the line between friend and foe was blurred, with each participant fighting not just for victory, but for survival. The fate of the Ætheris Gem, and with it, that of all present, hung by a thread, in a confrontation where courage, cunning and willpower would be the only arbiters.

Aboard the Odyssey Guardian XR-509, Sapphire, her uncles, and Rodrick's two men were engaged in an intense firefight with an enemy ship. While Darius and Marcus manned their blasters to neutralize the enemy attacks, Sapphire and Rodrick's men worked to disengage the enemy ship, which had firmly anchored itself to their ship, the Gem Ætheris.

—Let's try to undock it without damaging our ship's door—Sapphire urged. One of the soldiers, armed and ready, fired his blaster, sending out a precise beam that, followed by two others, managed to successfully undock the enemy ship. However, the enemy ship did not stop in its efforts, bombarding it with laser beams that made the structure of the Odyssey tremble with each impact.

In the midst of this chaotic battle, Gaius's main ship managed to anchor the Odyssey. Breaking down the door, the intruders invaded the space of Sapphire, Darius, and Marcus. The Odyssey's soldiers took up a defensive position; one of them stepped forward to protect Sapphire, but was knocked down.

wounded by a beam fired by one of the pirates. Quickly, Safiro drew her weapon and responded, wounding her attacker's hand and making him drop his laser weapon. A second pirate attacked with a sword, but Safiro, remembering her father's teachings, defended herself nimbly, blocking the blow with her arms and countering with a precise front kick, making the assailant retreat. Another attacker tried to hit Safiro, who evaded it with a skillful left hook, followed by a low blow that knocked the man down in pain.

Meanwhile, Darius and Marcus engaged in a desperate fight against the newcomers, in a combat that mixed blaster shots, knives, and swords, in a pitched battle that went beyond simple hand-to-hand combat.

As the chaos of the fight escalated, Terry desperately struggled to free himself from Gaius, who, with unwavering ferocity, attempted to stab him. At that moment, a nearby soldier rushed to the rescue, attempting to divert Gaius' attention with a targeted blow. However, Gaius, with an almost superhuman reflex, responded with a punch straight to the soldier's abdomen, who doubled over in pain, the agony clear on his face.

Taking advantage of the moment of distraction, Terry attempted to dodge, moving with a dexterity born of desperation. Gaius, however, would not be deterred. With a swift, precise movement, he delivered a punch straight to Terry's cheek. The impact was more than physical; it resonated through his being, distorting his perception of time and space. For a moment that seemed to simultaneously extend and contract, Terry was plunged into a vortex of sensory confusion. Sounds blended into an indecipherable murmur, images blurred and distorted, and his sense of time faded into a fog of uncertainty. Gaius, turned into a blurry silhouette of violence, seemed to multiply, his presence a constant threat from all sides at once.

This momentary loss of reality, though brief, left Terry vulnerable, struggling to hold on to any thread of clarity in the whirlwind of his altered mind.

At the critical moment when Gaius attempted to deliver a killing blow to Terry with his knife, Rodrick emerged from the shadows. With precision and force, he applied an uppercut to Gaius' neck, interrupting his attack. Gaius struggled desperately, trying to free himself from Rodrick's suffocating grip and catch his breath.

Rodrick, relentless, pulled him off Terry with determination, then turned to one of his men with a clear order — Get him out of here and make sure he's okay.

The soldier immediately complied, dragging Terry to the nearest wall to assess his condition. Terry, still in a whirlwind of confusion, struggled to focus his mind and recognize his surroundings. Eyes closed, he heard distant voices, unable to discern who was calling him. Instinctively, his hand brushed against his fallen shard on the ground. Upon contact, a surge of pure, warm energy flowed through him, reviving him with overwhelming intensity, as if a thousand suns were burning within his being. He tried to scream, but at that very moment, a blaster shot struck the ship. The energy released by the gem combined with the external attack melted the wall near Terry, opening a breach into the void of space.

The sudden decompression set in, creating a vortex that sucked everything in its path outward in a frantic attempt to equalize the internal pressure with the relentless vacuum of space. Many were swept outward in the ensuing chaos.

Rodrick and a few of his men managed to hold on tight, as did Gaius, though not all were as lucky. With speed and determination, Rodrick used the power of the other shard of the gem he had within him to temporarily seal the breach and restore the ship's integrity.

With the situation secure, he ordered his men to eliminate the remaining pirates; he did not want to leave any loose ends, except for Gaius. He left Gaius alive, driven by a deeper purpose. Gaius had been the cause of his brother being lost once again in the vastness of space, and Rodrick was determined not to allow that fate to repeat itself. With the ship partially repaired and the enemy neutralized, Rodrick was now faced with the challenge of navigating the complexities of forgiveness, vengeance, and justice, while contemplating the next step in his uncertain journey.

—¿Where are the space suits? — Rodrick asked his men, his voice filled with urgency.

—I have one here, Commander, — one of them replied, handing him a compact device.

Rodrick took the device and looked at it curiously before holding it in his hands. It was the

ExoSuit Explorer MKI, the latest marvel in spacesuit technology. With a mixture of awe and anticipation, he proceeded to activate it.

—Activate the Dynamic Adaptation System, — Rodrick ordered, his firm voice echoing in the expectant silence of the room. The suit, responding immediately to his voice command, came to life with a soft hum and a flash of LED lights along its seams. Rodrick stepped into the suit, which initially seemed too roomy and rigid.

As soon as he activated the adaptive system with a gentle touch on the control panel on his wrist, the suit began to transform. Smart materials and carbon nanotubes intertwined and adjusted around his body, adapting to every curve, every muscle, ensuring a fit so perfect that Rodrick almost forgot the barrier that now separated him from the deadly vacuum of space.

Internal sensors mapped his body temperature, adjusting insulating layers to maintain optimal thermal balance. Actuators in the exoskeleton calibrated its stiffness at key points, granting Rodrick superhuman strength.

while maintaining a flexibility that allowed him to move with the grace of a dancer in the weightlessness of space.

—System status, — Rodrick requested, marveling at the feeling of power and protection the suit provided him.

—Adaptation complete. All systems are operating within optimal parameters, — the suit's AI responded, its voice a reassuring presence in his ear.

Rodrick took a few steps, familiarizing himself with the slight hum of the exoskeleton and the feel of the magnetic gloves that activated with his thought. Even the HUD built into the helmet had been customized to display information in the way he found most intuitive.

—Mission ready, — he finally announced, his voice filled with confidence. The ExoSuit Explorer MKI wasn't just a piece of advanced technology; it was an extension of himself, a vital companion in the vacuum of space. With the suit perfectly tailored to his shape and needs, Rodrick felt prepared to face any challenge the universe threw at him.

In the vast, silent abyss of outer space, Terry floated, helpless and alone. The gem shard, pulsating with an almost living energy, was all that stood between him and death in the unforgiving vacuum. Without a spacesuit to protect him, his survival hung in the balance, his consciousness plunged into darkness after the impact and brutal force of decompression that had propelled him outward.

Meanwhile, aboard the ship, Rodrick was consumed by the determination to rescue his brother. He would not allow him to be lost in the infinite once more. —¡Open the hatch! — he ordered one of his men with authority. As the order was carried out, his gaze locked on Gaius with an intensity that would chill anyone's blood.

—Pray that my brother is well and not dead. For I assure you that not a thousand hells will be enough punishment for you, — Rodrick threatened, his voice low, laden with suppressed fury. At that moment, something in the depths of his gaze, a dark glint of promise and danger, struck Gaius' soul. He felt a visceral chill, as if death itself were blowing a freezing cold upon his neck. His entire being trembled, not only from the fear of Rodrick's vengeance, but from the realization of the unfathomable power this man was willing to unleash for his brother.

The tension in the room was palpable, a mixture of air heavy with the weight of critical decisions and fear of consequences. In that instant, Gaius's internal struggle, his coming to grips with the magnitude of his situation, was reflected in his eyes, which could not tear themselves away from Rodrick's piercing, resolute gaze.

It was a look that promised unimaginable torment, a warning not only of what was to come, but of the depth of the brotherly bond Rodrick was willing to defend at any cost. In that instant, the space between them was charged with an almost tangible intensity, a crossing of wills and destinies intertwined by uncertain past and future decisions.

The door flew open, and Rodrick, without hesitation, launched himself into the void of outer space. Activating the thruster built into his suit, he moved with agility, avoiding the infinite darkness. In the middle of the maneuver, he established communication with Safiro, needing her assistance to locate Terry.

— ¿Sapphire, can you hear me? — Rodrick transmitted through his suit's intercom, his voice calm but urgent in the vastness of the space silence. — Sapphire? — he pressed, hoping for a quick response. Her figure, isolated against the vast stellar backdrop, represented a vital connection point in the search for his lost companion.

Safiro managed to fix the central panel just as she heard her uncle's urgent voice through the ship's internal communication. —¿Yes, uncle? I can hear you, — Safiro replied, immediately noticing the tension in Rodrick's voice.

—We need you to scan this perimeter. We're looking for Terry; he was ejected from the ship, — Rodrick explained seriously.

—¿What?!— Safiro exclaimed, surprise and panic coloring her voice.

—Just calm down and start scanning the perimeter, — Rodrick ordered, trying to instill calm and determination into the situation.

— Okay, — Safiro replied, trying to steady his breathing and racing heart. Beside him, Marcus and Darius worked frantically at the controls, adjusting the range and sensitivity of the sensors to maximize the chances of finding Terry. Minutes felt like hours as they adjusted and readjusted the parameters, searching for any sign of life in the vastness of space.

Finally, after tense moments that seemed to last forever, the screen flickered with a weak but unmistakable signal. —¡There it is! — Marcus shouted, pointing to a spot on the monitor where a small indicator was blinking insistently.

—Down about five thousand kilometers from our current position, — Darius announced, his voice filled with relief, but also urgency. Terry had been found, against all odds, floating in the vacuum of space, alive according to preliminary data from his lifesign.

Safiro stared at the screen, a mix of relief and wonder washing over him. The technology on board the ship had surpassed his expectations, allowing them to locate Terry in a vastness where any hope seemed minuscule. With the location now secured, the next step was to organize a rescue. Every second counted, and Safiro knew there was no time to waste. The rescue operation was about to begin.

Rodrick activated his suit's propulsion, quickly heading towards Terry's location, who was floating in the vastness of space. As he got closer, Rodrick could clearly make out Terry's figure against the dark canvas of the universe.

—I have him in sight, — Rodrick reported, noting with relief that Terry showed no signs of frostbite. —It seems the fragment is keeping him alive, — he mused aloud, closing the distance between them. He was only ten meters away when Terry unexpectedly opened his eyes. A blinding light emitted from within them, forcing Rodrick to abruptly stop his advance.

—¿What 's going on out there? — Marcus asked over the intercom, his voice filled with concern and confusion. —Power levels have spiked, causing chaos in the systems— he reported, trying to make sense of the anomalous readings.

—I'm not sure, — Rodrick replied, his attention fixed on Terry. —He's emitting an incredibly intense light, — he explained, as he watched his brother slowly rise in the void of space. Something had changed radically; Terry no longer seemed to be the same person. His blue eyes shone with an unearthly light, and his body was enveloped in a luminous and powerful aura, a dazzling and disconcerting sight at the same time.

In the emptiness of space, with Rodrick watching in amazement and Terry's light illuminating the darkness, there is an expectant silence. Terry, floating and enveloped in blinding light, looks up into the cosmos, his eyes glowing like two distant suns. His voice, imbued with a power that transcends time and space, resonates in the void, reaching every corner of the universe.

In the silent vastness of space, Terry, enveloped in an aura of dazzling light, raises his gaze towards infinity. His figure, a beacon of hope in the darkness, prepares to speak. As he opens his mouth, his voice joins in a powerful echo with that of the Ætheris Gem, resonating like a heavenly choir across the void. The two voices, perfectly synchronized, deliver a message that is both ancient and eternal, imbued with an authority that transcends time and space.

—May the light of truth dispel the shadows of injustice. This universe, born of stars, will not be a breeding ground for darkness. Today, it will be reborn purified.

This pronouncement, charged with power and wisdom, spreads in waves that traverse the cosmos. The double voice, a fusion of Terry and the very essence of the Ætheris Gem, becomes the vehicle of a transformative power, a mandate for change that no dark being can ignore. The light that emanates from Terry, empowered by the unbreakable will of the gem, begins its inexorable march through the universe, carrying with it the promise of a new era.

Like an unstoppable wave, light travels at unimaginable speeds, touching planets, stars and galaxies, carrying with it a transformative power.

Wherever the light touches, corruption fades as if it never existed. Beings steeped in evil feel an overwhelming force consuming them, disintegrating every vestige of corruption from their very being. Tyrants fall, their empires of oppression crumbling into ashes of light, freeing countless civilizations from their chains.

Corrupted systems are cleansed, lies are revealed in the face of irrefutable truth, and justice prevails. Light restores the natural balance of the universe, healing ancient wounds and erasing scars of ancient conflicts. Peace, once a distant dream for many worlds, becomes a palpable reality.

As the wave of light completes its journey, the universe feels renewed, as if an ancient weight has been lifted from its shoulders. Civilizations, witnesses of this miracle, look to the sky with a new sense of hope and unity.

And at the center of it all, Terry, the catalyst for this transformation, floats serenely, his mission accomplished. The light gradually dissipates, leaving him once again in the calm of space, but the universe around him has changed forever, testifying to the power of an act of pure will and kindness.

Rodrick, still at a distance, looks on in wonder and gratitude. —You've done more than save us, Terry. You've healed the universe, — he murmurs, his voice heavy with emotion and admiration. Silence reigns again, but it is a peaceful silence, a silent testimony to the day when light conquered darkness.

—¿What was that? — Sapphire asked, still dazzled by the light.

—I don't think a ship was needed for the Ætheris Gem fragment— Rodrick said. —Terry had always been his main choice and support, that's why he called him and brought him here— he said as he He approached his brother, hoping he was still alive.

With a mix of concern and curiosity, Safiro activated her intercom, her voice floating softly through the digital space to her companion. —¿How is the situation there? — she inquired, her tone filled with cautious hope.

On the other side, Rodrick, whose hands danced over the controls on his left arm, frowned as he interpreted the data flashing before his eyes. —It looks like his vitals are weak, but he's still clinging to life. What do you see on your side? ¿Is there anything else we can do from here?— he asked, his voice ringing with a mix of determination and concern.

Safiro sighed, staring at the chaotic monitors flickering with errors and meaningless data, a dance of light and shadow brought on by the recent energy explosion. —It's total chaos here. The explosion has driven the monitors crazy; only the intercom is holding steady in this data storm. I think it's time to bring him back, man, — she explained, trying to keep her voice calm despite the urgency of the situation.

—Understood, — Rodrick replied solemnly, his finger already hovering over the critical button. With a determined click, he activated the propulsion system that would take them back to the heart of the

— We're heading there right now. Prepare for rescue, — he said, with a mix of gravity and hope, ready to face whatever awaited them on this return trip. The atmosphere was charged with tension, but also with a strange excitement; the kind of excitement that only those who navigate the limits of space and face the unknown can know.

Aboard the ship, the atmosphere was tinged with an almost palpable tension. The wounded man was placed on a resuscitation table, the monitors still delirious from the recent exposure to the anomalous energy. The lights flickered erratically, reflecting the chaos that the uncontrolled energy had wreaked on the ship's systems.

— ¿Can't you do something? — Rodrick's voice, tinged with desperation, cut through the silence. He watched, helpless, as Safiro struggled with the controls, pressing buttons that refused to obey, as if they had a will of their own.

—I'm trying to, — Safiro replied, her forehead beaded with sweat from the effort, frustration written in every line of her face.

From another ship, Marcus's voice broke through the intercom, further confirmation of the disaster. —All ships are the same. Nothing responds.

—¡Damn it!— Rodrick couldn't hold back his scream, a roar of frustration at not being able to assist his brother. But then, like a flash in the darkness, an idea struck his mind. If the energy fragment had caused such chaos, perhaps his own fragment could reverse it, using its energy to take control of the ship.

— What are you thinking about? — Sapphire, sensing the change in her uncle, looked at him with curiosity and uncertainty.

—I'll try something, — Rodrick announced with determination. He approached the ship's central computer, closing his eyes to concentrate. He placed his hands on the console, trying not only to absorb the chaotic energy, but also to spread it throughout his body. The sensation was overwhelming, like waves of living electricity running through his being, but he did not give up. He extended his influence, seeking to reach the other ships, and, little by little, the instruments began to stabilize, obeying human control again.

— You did it — Safiro could hardly believe it, watching as the monitors returned to normal, the alarms ceased, and the ship resumed its usual rhythm.

—Now try to reactivate this recovery dome— Rodrick, still focused on keeping the power flowing, directed Sapphire toward the most crucial task.

With the systems back under control, Sapphire approached the recovery dome's operations panel. This time, the buttons responded immediately, a testament to the miracle Rodrick had accomplished. The dome sealed shut, its healing systems coming to life, bathing the wounded in a healing light.

At that moment, inside the ship, a collective sigh of relief mingled with the hopeful atmosphere. Thanks to an act of bravery and a dash of ingenuity, they had turned fate in their favor, restoring calm to their little corner of the universe.

—We must return to Zenith quickly—Sapphire said urgently—to take him to the CRRA we have there. This dome we have here will only achieve stabilize their levels, but the center will be able to do much more for my father.

—Then let's go now, — Rodrick replied with determination. Taking control of the communicator, he signaled the other ships to resume their course towards Zenith. Thanks to the hyperdrive system, they managed to arrive without incident.

Safiro had already arranged for the central dome to be ready to receive her father. Ashtar was already in charge, ensuring that Terry received the necessary care. The team consisted of nurses, assistants and a few more doctors, all ready to act.

Upon arrival, Terry was transported in the portable dome, racing through the halls to treatment. However, they noticed that Terry's levels had dropped dramatically since he had stabilized.

— ¿What happened? — Ashtar asked, visibly worried — How did I get to this level?

—We don't know, — Safiro said, her voice tinged with concern as she helped carry her father's body. —Everything was fine when we arrived at Zenith; but then, his levels began to dropdra matically, hovering near zero at times, then stabilizing briefly, only to fall again. His heart rate became dangerously low, and suddenly, as he was being treated, the monitors alerted him to cardiac arrest.

— ¡Defibrillator! — Ashtar's order cut through the air with urgency.

—Yes,— an assistant answered quickly, handing him the defibrillator. After administering the electric shock, they had to repeat the procedure two more times until Terry's pulse finally returned. Meanwhile, outside, Rodrick waited, consumed by despair and anxiety, unable to do anything but wait for news of his brother's condition, just as other relatives arrived.

—¿How are you? — The voice of his father, Francisco Javier, brought a new weight to the already tense atmosphere.

—They're still trying to stabilize his heart, — Rodrick replied, trying to remain calm under his father's inquisitive gaze.

—And, ¿how did all this happen? — Zahori asked, trying to understand Terry's sudden decline in health.

It was Rodrick who answered, his voice steady despite the uncertainty surrounding him. —The Ætheris Gem shard called to him. Both were needed to accomplish the mission. A ship wasn't necessary; from the start, it had to be Terry who did it. — His explanation hinted at the complexity and mystery of

his current predicament, suggesting that greater, older forces were at play, challenging the limits of his understanding and testing not only his bravery, but his faith in the unknown.

—It was only natural, — Helena began, her voice resonating with a mix of wisdom and sadness. —You two have always had that unique connection. The Ætheris Gem had chosen him even before his birth to be the bearer of her essence and soul, and for them to work together in the end. That is why she spent so many years raising him alone, preparing him for this day.

As news of Terry's condition spread, Kyran, Elara, Dennis, Claudius, and Terry's brother-in-law Aiden arrived, joining the circle of concerned family and friends. Ethan, accompanied by Caelum, Lyra, and Elio, also arrived, understanding quickly became clear about the seriousness of the situation. Thanks to their scientific knowledge, Caelum and Lyra were admitted to assist in the process of recovering Terry and the fragment. Finally, Itzumi, Rodrick's wife, arrived to see her husband.

She hugged him and asked, —¿How are you? ¿What happened? — her voice tinged with concern.

—He just did the job he was created to do, — Rodrick replied, fighting back tears. Itzumi hugged him, sharing the pain and anguish he felt, suppressing her own urge to cry. The family and close friends, including Marcus and Darius, stood a little further apart, all immersed in a mixture of helplessness and hope, trying to be strong for each other.

After five long hours of tireless efforts by the scientists, they finally managed to stabilize Terry, returning him to a normal state in terms of his vital signs. Lyra was the first to give the good news, although she warned that now they had to wait to see if Terry would come out of the coma.

—And, ¿why did he fall into a coma? — Kyran asked, worried. — Wasn't the gem fragment inside him?

—Yes, the fragment is inside your father, — Lyra explained calmly. —But Ætheris exhausted his own energy trying to repair this universe, along with Terry's energy. Now, both of them lack the energy to keep their bodies functioning normally. They must regain that energy, and that requires rest. We don't know when he will wake up; we hope it will be in a few days, but we will be monitoring his progress constantly.

The news, though worrying, also carried with it a halo of hope. Family and friends came together in an even stronger bond, sharing the burden of uncertainty, but also faith in Terry's recovery and in the unbreakable power of his connection to Ætheris.

As the days passed on Zenith, hope and anxiety intertwined in the hearts of every being who awaited news of Terry. Vigil became a constant, a silent ritual that united family and friends in a shared wait. Caelum, Lyra, and the team of scientists dedicated every moment to studying the link between Terry and the Ætheris Gem, searching for any clue that could point the way to its awakening. But Terry lay still, trapped in a deep coma that seemed more like a bridge between two worlds than a simple state of unconsciousness. In its stillness, it held the promise of unfathomable secrets, of truths that only he had glimpsed in the darkness of his trance.

As the final day covered in this account drew to a close, reality set in with a painful certainty: Terry would not wake up yet. His family and friends were faced with the fact that his struggle, his journey to recovery, extended far beyond what this book could contain. The Ætheris Gem, in its mysterious wisdom, had woven a destiny for Terry that was not yet ready to reveal itself.

The atmosphere at Zenith, though charged with a veiled sadness, was also filled with a steely determination. Terry's story was not over; in fact, it was clear that his true test, his true mission, lay just beyond, waiting to be discovered in the pages of a future book.

Thus, with Terry still mired in the shadows of his coma, the legacy of the Ætheris Gem hung in the air, a mystery to be solved. The promise of its awakening, of the revelations it would bring and of the challenges he would face alongside those who loved him, became the guiding thread towards the next installment of this saga.

This ending is not a goodbye, but a see you later, a pause in the narrative that invites you as a reader to wait with great anticipation for the continuation of the odyssey. The saga of Terry and the Ætheris Gem is far from over; in truth, the journey towards light, towards awakening and towards the revelation of intertwined destinies, has only just begun.

—The saga of Terry and the Ætheris Gem is far from over... The awakening is approaching— In the next book called:

"FRONTIERS OF INFINITY: Parallel Resonance"