CHAPTER 2

In a universe where reality intertwines with fantasy, a portal of unknown dimensions opened, tearing the veil that separates the worlds. Through this portal, with a firm and determined step, Rodrick entered, leader of a brave entourage, followed by his loyal men. Their destination was none other than Zenith, the technological planet and space station of intergalactic renown. This world of mechanical wonders and futuristic advances welcomed them with open arms, in the figure of Darius, who guided them through the intricate corridors to Terry's offices. These offices, which rested in the heart of Zenith, were of capital importance; if the Imperial Supreme did not wake up soon, they would become Ashtar's domain.

Upon arrival, the group was greeted with a welcome that was anything but ordinary. Lyra, Ashtar and Marcus were waiting for them, renowned figures who, between shadows and neon lights, painted a picture of tension and expectation.

—Well,— Rodrick began in a voice that resonated with authority and a hint of tiredness, —I hope you have a plan for this mess we're in.

—We are here precisely for that,— said Ashtar, whose presence commanded an innate respect, a reflection of his power and wisdom.

However, Rodrick was not in the mood for flattery. —First, I want to know,— he asked with a look that cut through the air. —Who came up with the 'brilliant' idea of turning him into a deity? I admit that Terry, with his power and his fragment of the gem, could very well be one, but how did this absurd rumor start?

At this accusation, Ashtar did not back down. —First of all, we don't know,— he replied firmly, crossing his arms in a defiant gesture. —Remember, neither Lyra nor I were present when Terry unleashed his power. That mystery belongs to you, Darius, Marcus, and your men. So, if you're looking for a culprit, perhaps you should start by looking in the mirror.

Marcus, until then a spectator, intervened with a look that went from Rodrick to Ashtar and then to Lyra. —Neither Darius nor I have said anything,— he said, seeking support in the glances of his companions.

—Marcus is right,— the aforementioned seconded, with a voice that sought to calm things down.

It was then that Lyra, with a gesture of exasperation and waving her hands as if trying to disperse a thick fog, intervened. —Let's leave this matter for another time,— she proposed urgently. —Now, the most important thing is to find a solution to this mess. Afterwards, we will have plenty of time to find the person or people responsible.

And so, amid veiled reproaches and shaky alliances, the group set out to unravel the mystery that had brought them together, aware that the fate of Zenith, and perhaps the entire universe, hung in the balance. The adventure, fraught with unknown dangers and unlikely alliances, had only just begun.

Rodrick, his anger barely contained beneath the surface of his apparent calm, accepted the truce with an icy warning. —Fine,— he conceded in a tone that left little room for doubt, —but when I find the person or people responsible, they will wish they had never come into the world.— His words, laced with fury, echoed in the enclosed space, marking the gravity of his promise.

Ashtar, however, maintained his composure, facing the gathering storm with a serenity that stood in stark contrast to Rodrick's tempest. —Likewise,— he replied in a voice that carried within it the wisdom of the ages. —The truth would come to light sooner or later.— He continued, unfolding before them a panorama that surpassed the confines of their immediate situation. —Look around you. Oases have sprung up in inhospitable deserts, dying planets have flourished anew, and those whose actions darkened the fate of many have disappeared. It was only a matter of time before the legends of these miracles would spread, taking Terry's story far beyond our borders.

Ashtar paused, letting his words sink in, before adding, —The urgent thing now is to ensure that Terry can continue his recovery in peace, without the shadow of this controversy haunting him.— His eyes, deep and keen, scanned the room, reading the unspoken consensus in his companions, just before a new figure burst onto the scene.

Zahori, with a presence that defied the solemnity of the moment, entered the office. His unexpected but timely arrival served as a living reminder that despite the dark clouds gathering above them, there was still the possibility of hope and renewal.

The tension in the room gave way to a new phase of discussion, one where strategies to protect Terry and preserve the fragile balance of their world would become the focus of all attention. Zahori's arrival was not just the beginning of a new chapter in their adventure; it was a call to unity in the face of the challenges that awaited, a reminder that, together, they could weather any storm that came.

Zahori, whose presence until then had been a spark of hope, now turned into a whirlwind of emotions. With his patience worn thin and worry marking every word, he demanded clarity – I hope you have a report of what is happening to me.

—There's something going on out there ,— she said, frustration vibrating in her voice. Rodrick, prepared to offer some explanation or perhaps some consolation, was silenced by an imperious gesture from Zahori. —I'm not here for scolding now. I'm not a child, Rodrick. My husband is out there, and there are people who…— her voice trailed off as she searched for the right words. —…are worshipping him? Deifying him? I don't know how to put it.

Arms crossed in a defensive gesture, desperation in her eyes, Zahori demanded an answer. —I want an explanation, and I want it now. I can't see my own husband because I've been denied it,— she confessed, her voice breaking under the weight of her emotions, bringing her to the verge of tears as she covered her mouth in a vain attempt to contain the pain.

It was Darius who came to her side, offering her the comfort of his presence. —Relax,— he assured her softly, —we are just as confused and worried as you are. We are trying to understand what happened and are looking for a solution to this problem.— His words, accompanied by gentle pats on the back and a comforting hug, were meant to be a balm for Zahori's troubled soul.

Meanwhile, Lyra watched the scene, concern etched on her face. —If this continues, I don't know what could happen,— she commented, reflecting the concern shared by everyone. The situation, complex and full of

uncertainties, had become a labyrinth of emotions and challenges, forcing them to face not only the external crisis of Terry's deification, but also the internal tempests that plagued each of them.

At that moment, everyone understood that they were at a turning point. The need to act was imperative, but the direction to take remained unknown. The urgency to protect Terry, to restore balance, and to find the truth behind recent events united them, reminding them that, despite their differences and difficulties, only together could they navigate the turbulent waters that awaited them.

So, amidst the storm that surrounded them, Ashtar emerged with a beacon of clarity. —Well, I've been reflecting on our situation,— he began, capturing the attention of everyone in the room. —And I believe I've found a solution. We can't simply hide Terry; the knowledge has already spread, and trying to hide it will only bring us more trouble.

Fans might try to steal your body– His gaze swept the room, finding on each face a mix of shock, scandal and surprise.

– The only viable option is to move him to a place where he can continue his rest without removing him from public view, thus allowing his... followers, if you will, to continue their acts of veneration.

–Is that your solution? – Rodrick couldn't hide his skepticism.

—I'm open to suggestions,— Ashtar replied, calm in the face of the question.

—It's not a bad idea,— Lyra said thoughtfully. —If people can see their 'savior,' we'll be able to monitor Terry without interference. But where could we do that?—

It was then that Marcus came up with an innovative solution. —If you'll allow me, I have a proposal. We could create something like an 'altar' or 'temple' on Zephyra, specifically the temple that Elian Varix built. It would be under the custody of the Saharim , and Rodrick could assign his men to secure the place. Plus, the space is large enough to house the necessary medical equipment.

—Interesting,— Lyra said, considering the idea.

–It will be done– Ashtar nodded, satisfied –I will contact Elian Varix to prepare the place, as he will soon receive a guest of great importance.

— I'll take care of the preparations,— Rodrick declared with determination, —and I'll bring Ethan to assist me.

–Then proceed– Ashtar gave his approval, preparing to communicate the plan to Elian.

With a determined gesture, Rodrick summoned a transporter portal. His men followed, disappearing behind him as the portal closed, leaving the others behind, focused on preparations for Terry's transfer.

Thus, in an unexpected turn of events, what began as an unprecedented crisis transformed into a bold strategy. Together, they had charted a path forward, a path that, while fraught with uncertainty, promised to preserve peace and protect the one at the center of the storm. The alliance forged at that moment was not only a response to the immediate crisis, but also a testament to their ability to unite in the face of challenges, marking the beginning of a new and hopeful chapter in their extraordinary saga.

The meeting between Ethan and Rodrick, two brothers marked by personalities as different as day and night, took place under the abrupt glow of a transporter portal that burst into Ethan's office.

While the latter was sealing a document with his signature, handing it to his secretary, the space was invaded by the unexpected appearance of Rodrick, who, standing, imposed himself with his presence.

—What brings you here, brother?— Ethan greeted with a smile, unfazed by the interruption. Dressed in the distinctive uniform of an Omegaran general, his attire reflected both authority and the advanced technology of his world. The dark—hued suit was crafted from a smart material that adapted its comfort and protection to various conditions, featuring an Omegaran emblem on his chest that symbolized the cultural and technological balance of his civilization. Insignia on his shoulders and collar, shifting color under different lights, proclaimed his rank without ostentation. Touch panels on the sleeves and hidden pockets offered functionality, while a removable cape and high—tech boots completed his dignified and prepared appearance.

—You'll have to come with me,— Rodrick cut to the chase, his tone leaving little room for negotiation.

Ethan's response was not long in coming, tinged with annoyance and sarcasm – Have you forgotten that I am the general of this place and that I cannot simply abandon my post? Besides, if you explain to me the reason, perhaps i could understand better. I understand that the intensive exercise may have affected your communication skills, but I need details, context .

Rodrick, faced with his brother's intransigence, replied with a severity that barely concealed his frustration. —Ethan,— he said, crossing his arms before placing his hands on the desk, —if you don't come by good means, you'll do it by bad means.— The tension between them was palpable, with Ethan standing up, his gaze filled with indignation.

The confrontation escalated until Ethan put into words the distance that separated them since Terry's absence. —Do you understand, Rodrick, that without Terry to mediate between us, our differences are more evident? You never liked to give explanations; you are a man of action. But I am not Terry; I do not have his patience or his ability to understand your silences. So, either you give me an explanation now, or you can leave because I have obligations to attend to.

In the face of Ethan's firmness, Rodrick relented, understanding that the implicit connection he shared with Terry was not replicated with his other brother. —Okay,— he sighed, acknowledging the need to adapt. —I need you on Zephyra. We're going to prepare the place to move the CRRA where Terry is located. You're probably not aware of what's happening on Zenith right now, otherwise you wouldn't be here.

– What's going on at Zenith? – Ethan's curiosity and concern instantly arose.

Rodrick then revealed the magnitude of the phenomenon that was developing: –At this moment, Zenith is being flooded by ships from all corners of the universe. They all come to worship our brother Terry for his actions. If you tried to go now, you would find an endless queue waiting to enter.

Ethan, overwhelmed by the revelation, was forced to sit down, his hand covering his mouth, unable to immediately process the magnitude of what had been told. The news not only implied Terry's transformation into a being of universal veneration, but also the challenge this represented for them as a family and as guardians of his legacy.

In that moment, the two brothers, despite their differences, found themselves united by a common cause: ensuring Terry's well—being in the midst of a phenomenon that was overwhelming them. The mission to Zephyra was not just a matter of logistics or security; it was an act of brotherly protection in a universe that had been forever changed by the actions of one of their own.

Rodrick, seeing the visible impact his words had on Ethan, nodded solemnly. —Yes, that's right, little brother. The devotion to Terry has reached levels we never imagined. They are now praying to him and prostrating themselves before his assisted regenerative rest chamber, the CRRA.

Ethan, still trying to absorb the information, expressed disbelief and dismay. —But how?— he asked, his voice tinged with bewilderment. —We have always known of our link to the Ætheris Gem and understood that, at some point, we would be required to make sacrifices. We knew our task was predestined, but we never sought recognition or praise. That is not what drives us.

Rodrick stepped closer, placing a hand on his brother's shoulder in a gesture of support and understanding. —I know, Ethan. Our struggle and our sacrifices have always been for the greater good, not for personal glory. What is happening with Terry is something beyond our control. People see in him a symbol of hope, a living miracle for the acts he performed driven by the Ætheris Gem. This has gone beyond what any of us could have anticipated.

Rodrick paused, searching for the right words to strengthen his brother. —What matters now is ensuring Terry's safety and well—being. This has transcended our family and our original intentions. Now, we must act not only as Terry's protectors but also as guardians of what he has become to the universe. Our priority is to ensure that he can continue his recovery in peace, away from the fervor that his presence has stirred.

Ethan nodded slowly, absorbing the reality of the situation. While the revelation was overwhelming, he also understood the responsibility that fell upon them. The immediate task was clear: they must move Terry to a safe place where his influence could be a beacon of hope without endangering him. The mission to Zephyra was not only an act of protection, but also a step toward preserving the integrity and humility that had defined their path from the beginning.

With that understanding, the brothers were ready to face the challenges that awaited them, remaining steadfast in their commitment to the values that had guided them throughout their lives. Despite the extraordinary circumstances, their determination to act with integrity and protect what mattered most remained unwavering.

– Okay, I understand – Ethan said, turning his gaze to his secretary, who was still in the office. – I'm going to have to go out, so please reschedule all my appointments for tomorrow or the following days.

—Yes, sir,— the secretary replied promptly.

—In case something urgent happens, please contact me through LumiCom. If it is not something of extreme urgency, I trust your judgment to make the necessary decisions. I know I can trust you,— Ethan said, still assimilating the overwhelming information, slowly rising from his seat as he struggled to process everything he had heard. Rodrick, taking the initiative, ordered one of his men to open a transport portal to Zephyra, specifically to the temple of Elian Varix.

Upon arrival, they found Elian and some of his acolytes cleaning and tidying up the space.

—I was expecting you,— Elian said happily, shaking hands with Rodrick and Ethan, who returned the greeting. Since Elian was not a military man, the handshake was the typical welcoming gesture between the temple priests and civilians.

– My acolytes are preparing this place for the CRRA. I invite you to tour the temple so that you can choose the most appropriate place for the chamber of rest. Wherever you decide, I will make sure everything is ready – said Elian, gesturing around the surroundings.

—Yes,— Ethan nodded, regaining some composure. —We would like you to guide us through the temple so we can fully appreciate the space and determine the best location for the CRRA.

–Of course– Elian agreed, inviting them to follow him. He showed them the temple in detail, both the upper floor and the underground area and the cave known for being the departure point of the ship that took the gem into outer space. –That's all– Elian concluded after the tour.

–You will tell me where you prefer to place my friend. What I can assure you is that, wherever you choose, I have already arranged for Saharim men to guard him day and night to ensure his safety.

Rodrick nodded, understanding the importance of shared surveillance. —I understand,— he replied. —But don't worry, because I'll also leave some of my men here. That way, with your guards and ours, we'll ensure the necessary security.

— That's good,— Elian said, relieved by the collaboration.

Ethan, after carefully observing the space, shared his thought – I think it will be better to place him in the main temple, not in the underground one. If any eventuality occurs, it will be much easier to evacuate him from here than from anywhere else.

—¿Do you think that would be best?— Rodrick expressed his doubt, seeking confirmation from his brother.

—Yes, you will thank me later, Rodrick,— Ethan said with conviction. —I am sure Terry would have liked this place. I remember that he always came here to meditate. He never did it anywhere else, only here, because he felt that this space allowed him to calm his mind. This must be the place that welcomes and protects him.

—¿How do you know that?— Rodrick asked, intrigued by Ethan's intimate knowledge of Terry's preferences.

Ethan shared a deep connection with Terry, knowing his habits and favorite places to find peace and serenity. This choice, based on the memory of the moments of calm Terry found in the temple, not only offered a safe place for his rest but also a space full of personal meaning, strengthening the decision with an emotional touch that reinforced its relevance.

– Because unlike you, brother, I did talk to Terry. We always talked about many things, I'm sure you wouldn't have any idea of what our brother felt or how he thought sometimes – Ethan told him with a somewhat mischievous smile. He knew that this provoked Rodrick, especially the connection that Ethan had with Terry, that ease of conversation and mutual understanding that Rodrick sometimes found incomprehensible. ¿Could it be jealousy that Rodrick felt?

This dynamic between the brothers revealed the complexities of their personal relationships, each connecting with Terry in their own way, but also highlighted how those differences in communication and understanding could create subtle tensions, even at critical moments when unity was paramount.

Ethan's comment was not only reminding us of Terry's importance in their lives, but also, perhaps inadvertently, underscoring the need to overcome those differences in order to honor what Terry represented to each of them.

Rodrick looked at Ethan, his expression hardened by the previous comment. After a brief moment of tension, he sighed deeply, as if finally deciding to open up about a long—avoided topic.

– You know, sometimes I felt like a stranger when you talked to Terry. It was like they shared a world I couldn't access, like they spoke a language I didn't understand – Rodrick confessed, looking away, unable to meet Ethan's gaze.

Ethan, surprised by Rodrick's frankness, softened his expression. —We didn't mean to exclude you, Rodrick. Terry and I... we just shared similar interests, and the conversation flowed. But I never wanted you to feel left out.

—I know, but I can't help but feel… jealous, I guess. Jealous of not knowing how to fit in, of not understanding Terry the way you did,— Rodrick admitted, with a vulnerability rarely shown.

Ethan approached his brother, placing a hand on his shoulder in a conciliatory gesture. —Rodrick, Terry loved you as much as he loved me. We each had our own connection to him. Maybe, instead of trying to understand how I related to Terry, we could talk about how each of us saw him. We might discover that, despite our differences, we both knew Terry more deeply than we thought.

Rodrick nodded slowly, Ethan's proposal lighting a spark of hope in him. —Maybe you're right. I've always wanted to understand you better Terry... both of us. Maybe it's time to learn more about each other instead of letting these feelings keep us apart .

—Exactly,— Ethan smiled, feeling like a bridge was being built between them. —Let's share stories about Terry, let's learn about each other. Not only will it help us remember him better, but it will also strengthen our bond as brothers.

The conversation that followed was an exchange of memories and insights about Terry, each brother offering his own perspective. As the words flowed, Rodrick and Ethan found comfort in their mutual understanding, realizing that despite their differences, their love for their brother offered common ground on which they could meet and reconnect.

Ethan had envisioned a space that Terry would have found welcoming: a refuge for his spirit and his physicality, a bastion of calm and security. Elian, meticulous in his task, ensured that everything sparkled with pristine cleanliness, paving the way for the Advanced Rest Chamber (ARC). Once in place, flanked by two vases of flowers that added an organic touch to the room, subtle barriers were erected, not to impede passage, but to demarcate a sacred space. Soft rugs and decorative elements were scattered around the room, enhancing the atmosphere of devotion and comfort.

Two hours later, the CRRA made its entrance, guarded by a team of doctors and nurses, as well as Ashtar, Caleum, and Lyra. With great care, they positioned the CRRA in the center of the temple, arranged the medical equipment discreetly in various corners, and put the finishing touches on the sanctuary. The medical instruments, while necessary, did not detract from the beauty of the place; they blended with

the futuristic aesthetic of the temple, serving both function and form. The worship hall, now complete, stood as a testament to the human advance toward tranquility and introspection, a place where Terry could find peace at the cutting edge of spiritual contemplation and where he could be worshipped by anyone who came to offer their respect and gifts.

—Everything is ready now,— Elio said, addressing the group of men and women from the professional medical team with a satisfied look. —Now we can receive visitors without any problems so that they can pay their respects to Terry, or… what do they call him now?— Elian asked, driven by curiosity.

–The —Arciluminado— Ashtar clarified solemnly.

—Understood,— Elian nodded. —Now you can inform everyone that they are welcome.— Ashtar pulled out his LumiCom and established communication with one of the soldiers.

– Transmit the coordinates I have sent you so that all ships can head to this planet and thus reach His Excellency– Ashtar instructed with authority.

—Right away, Your Honor,— the soldier responded diligently, preparing to carry out the order he had received.

—His levels are fine,— the doctor said, carefully examining the data projected by the machine connected to the CRRA. Monitors on the wall flickered, giving accurate readings of Terry's vital signs.

—Perfect,— Lyra murmured, with a sigh of relief.

—Elian, get ready. Thousands of people will gather here, a phenomenon that even we have not fully understood yet,— Caelum said, his tone mixing amazement with warning.

—There's nothing to worry about; I understand perfectly. In fact, I knew about it from those days in Zalara, even before I knew about the existence of the Ætheris Gem or the fragment Terry held within himself. When Nova brought him to me to help him with his ailments, I knew instantly that there was something about him that set him apart from the rest,— Elian confessed, remembering that revealing moment.

— I'm glad you are,— Caelum replied, his smile a gesture of approval and camaraderie.

—We are ready to receive everyone,— Elian stated firmly. —I have given instructions to the assistants and the Saharim; they are well informed of their tasks. In addition, we have the preservation of Rodrick and Ethan's soldiers who will guard the area, so there is nothing to worry about. Our dear friend will be safe here and the Saharim clan, the one Terry helped by giving them a new purpose, will not allow their leader to suffer any harm. Here he will be able to fully heal, until he awakens, no matter when that may be. But we will be here, patiently waiting for that moment.—

—I know,— Lyra began, —that he is in good hands and that you will not let anything happen to your friend. You are an exceptional friend, Elian, and that is why Terry came here. He found in this place the peace that eluded him elsewhere; the peace that you offered him. That is why he returned again and again. It is the perfect environment for Terry to rest and recover.—

Lyra placed her hand on Elian's shoulder in a gesture of support. Elian responded with a smile of camaraderie and a deep sense of satisfaction at being able to assist his friend and give back a part of what Terry had given him in life. Thanks to Terry and the Ætheris Gem, Elian had been able to expand his horizons beyond what he could have ever imagined.

The arrival of visitors from all over the universe was not long in coming. Elian, with precise signals, coordinated his assistants to organize the growing crowd. Soon, more helpers joined the task, receiving the gifts that the visitors brought in honor of Terry. These gifts were respectfully arranged in the lower area of the temple, each one a testimony of gratitude and admiration.

Security was palpable: four guards were positioned around the CRRA, two in front and two in the rear. At the entrance, some members of the Saharim clan stood guard, their presence a mix of solemnity and promise of protection.

The flanks were guarded by a collaboration of Rodrick's guards, Ethan's guards, and the Saharim. Marcus stayed with the Saharim, assuming command by mutual consent with Rodrick and Ethan.

Darius, for his part, was in charge of overseeing ship traffic, ensuring strict control over who could enter and leave the planet Zephyra, whose popularity had grown enormously. Over time, the planet had not only attracted more permanent residents, but its trade flourished, making it one of the most prominent commercial centers in the galactic east.

The lands of Zephyra, as well as its fruits and animals, were experiencing an unprecedented boom. The fertility of the land intensified in an inexplicable way, causing any seed planted to sprout with unusual vigor. The population enjoyed prolonged youth, aging at a very slow pace, without the intervention of chemical agents: a completely natural phenomenon. The widespread rumor attributed these miracles to –The —Arciluminado—– whose influence seemed to permeate every aspect of the planet, infusing it with a vitality and splendor that went far beyond scientific understanding.