Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer

KNAPP 21. Daron Hinauer.#1 Written by Alfred Juillet Frascara.

2010/10/24 to 2010/12/16

Gregorian Year: 3 976 Star date [37]53000.4038 Location: Star Aquarii 31, planet 4, satellite Domicilium; Knapp planet, Solar System, Aurean Planetary System, Version 01 73275 words.

Characters:
Daron Hinauer, Captain of the spaceship freighter Gula Eyeela, Biologist; Johard, Domicilium Citys Major; Shanak Hinauer, sister of Daron, wife of Johard, Senator. Senator Shungirk, President of Domicilium planet= Jurgen Hidler,
King Knapp xxxiii

CHAPTERS.
1.- DARON HINAUER 2.- AT THE CHANCELLORS DINNER 3.- THE TWIN TOWERS HOTEL 4.- TOBOR THE GREAT 5.- AT DOMICILLIUM 6.- THE TRIP TO AUREAN FROM AQUARII 31 B 7.- ARRIVAL TO AUREAN ORBIT 8.- THE ARRIVAL TO STAR AUREAN 6 9.- APPROACHING DOMICILIUM SATELITE 10.-THE DEPARTURE OF THE 2ND STARFLEET 11.-CAPTAIN OFTER 12.-THE BELL SHAPED SPACESHIP 13.-KNAPP PLANETARY SYSTEM 14.-THE TRIP OF CAPTAIN GOBURT 15.-AT THE FOREST ON FOOT The End page page page page page page page page page page Page page page page page page 01 51 70 99 108 111 113 190 209 222 239 243 257 273 282 306

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer 1 Chapter One, Daron Hinauer. The four cities (Domicilium, Defensio, Contexo, Confessus and Cautes) were red dots on the sphere. The blue was his Orb One, now circling the globe from north East to South West. Domicilium was located on the first Continent, named Makel; populace two million people. Originally, the town was built with four buildings at the centre, and a concrete wall all around the place, including three parks four hundred square meters each; near the river Schwall that passed rushing to the sea- it has two kilometers wide and three hundred meters deep at the center. In summer, it shrinks to a hundred meters wide no more, due to the liquefaction of the ice on the nearest mountains. Daron Hinauer descended from the spaceship and organized the download of the animals with care- four of them in all. This species were living on the mountains on Furum continent- there are clean of virus.- Eyeela said, looking at him- she was wearing a yellow dress with a pair of red shoes. You look very happy.- Daron said, adding in his inner thoughts And beautiful. Do you notice it? Yes, as a Biologist, this finds are precious to me! Now we had 309 of these cows in our pastures- of course, nothing as in old times.- She said, walking now to help the others with the animals- they were herded to a wagon, to takes them to the fields near the city. Daron goes to the Central Tower, where some officers were directing incoming spaceships and talking with their captains by radio. Johard was there, with his white long hair, and when looking at Daron, he smiled and said: You are back! Good to see you. They shake shoulders in the Neongos way, and Daron said: I see you are busy- many Alliance Starfleet vessels are coming these days. Yes, we had an alliance with them- the new engines are being set in every old spaceship- I wonder if this is intelligent.- Johard said, coming out of the room; they take a Flier vehicle and went to the city; the new buildings were shining under the star Aquarii 91. Im going to meet a Senator, soon. Do you want to assist? Its a political meeting.- Johard said, looking at him. Yes, of course. I wonder if my sister is at home.- Daron asked. No, she is not! But this first night shell be there for to change of dress. I think we could have that meeting and then go home.- Johard said, being the husband of Shanak, the recently elected Senator from the first district. Daron didnt like politicians, but since his elder sister become one of them; he had accepted the fact and was trying to be updated on the political facts. They arrived early to the place where a meeting was adjourned, and so they take a pair of beverages and sandwiches while waiting, at the Bar. Then, some bells rings, and Johard said: they are calling to the meeting. Lets go there.Johard said, who was in charge of the Space port in Domicilium. Fourteen minutes later, the people inside the big room was finally seated in front of a large table, and a man in the middle of it speaks by the microphone, saying: The meeting begins. We are here to speak about the new dispositions

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer pertaining to the safety of the space port and the fares we are going to evaluate for the new kind of vessels, specially those coming from our new allies, the members of the Alliance Starfleet.

2
A person rises his hand, and the President of the table gives him the permission to speak, so he said: I am here in representation of the government of our President Guvald Gofopra, to hear your ideas about the way we are going to face the incoming of more commercial flights and some other kind of visits. We didnt had much commercial interchange with our neighboring planetary systems; now with the new commercial treaties, we are bound to have more exchange of products and more vehicles are going to appear. Our original fares were ridiculously small in price; now we are raising them to Universal standards- prices are going to be stipulated in the same manner as in the Solar System, Knappian System and others. No more, but no less, either. Johard asks for the permission to speak, saying: we are happy you are here, Senator Shungirk; because you will have our sayings to the President. We need a bigger building to house the woods we are sure it will appear soon- also, we need a place where the visitors could rest some of them flying for months in a spaceship, wished to be near the spaceport while their merchandise is being downloaded and inspected; they also needs to pay the fares and that perhaps will delay one to three days- they could be at a Hotel while this operations takes place. Another thing I wish to ask to be taken in account, its the need of a better way to carry the passengers of those spaceships to the city; we are counting now with the presence of private companies to carry the visitors to the city in small Fliers; perhaps a pair of bigger vehicles could be set in place, perhaps using a leasing contract. Then, others were speaking, and after an hour, the Senator Shungirk apologizes for his lack of time to keep on listening and added: Every motion here presented I will carry to our President, to be studied and some reasonable action could be implemented. Good afternoon. And he went out, followed by several persons who hadnt the occasion to speak, and were speaking while he was walking. Johard takes Darons arm, saying Certainly this Senator is a good guy and he will do something to improve our small Space port. Lets go home! Daron hailed a taxi Flier, and inside it they traveled to Johards home, located on one of the bigger buildings in town- so they descended on the upper platform, 390 floors from the street. Wow! I surely will tremble to be living at this place!- Daron said, walking to the elevator. Totally secure, brother in law! Made with good steel.- Johard said, smiling. At the 20 rooms apartment, Daron eats lunch with Johard at the table in the dinner room; a food processor was set in the middle of it, and it could be chosen more than a hundred different plates and 40 different liquors or beverages. This cost us a lot of money, but it gives a total independence to the woman of the house, that as you know, here is working eight hours per day.- Johard said, proud that he has one of those artifacts at home. Later, Johard went to work at his office inside the house, while Daron takes a shower and puts on new clothes; the ring bells and his sister come inside the house.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Good to have you here, brother!- She said, smiling; she was tall and lean, dressed with taste; Daron said: Im here only for a week, sister. Then, Ill be traveling again. She looks at him smiling, and said: Well, the eternal astronaut! I guess you are happier aboard a spaceship than in a city!- And seats at a chair on the living room I brought Laleas (Jerifordion cows) that were living on the mountains on Furum continent- there are clean of virus.- He said. Good to know it! I wonder how many of them there are now.- Shanak said. Three hundred, they said. Hope this species could stick to life- some of them just die here in this place.- Daron said. Yes, this environ is rather queer- days of 12 hours, to daylights in a day- we had the advantage that we could reason about it, but an animal dont.- Shanak said, looking how his husband was coming by the corridor. Hi, Shanak! Too much work today?- Johard asked, kissing her on a cheek. Yes, as always! There are two more reunions before I could end this day.She said, almost complaining. You see, Daron, we Neongos just didnt adapt to this satellite! And there are lots of earthquakes- they said the tension makes the satellite shrink and elongate every twelve hours.- Johard said, and Daron accented with a bow; in reality, he knows better than that, but he was not going to scare the couple with his scientific information. Our government wants revenge, dear brother. Revenge against the Knappian, that invaded and almost exterminate our race- no matter we are all humans.Shanak said, very seriously. Yes, I had heard about it. Our president is the most enthusiast- I wonder what we could gain with a triumph.- Daron said, not willing to mention what could be the end result if they loose the confrontation. Our president Jurgen Hindler has already a whole armada- seven cruisers, fifteen frigates, and seventy Orbs.- Shanak enumerates. Orbs! Those artifacts are very old and obsolete!- Daron said, as this was the first time he heard about this. Its hush hush, brother! Dont mention, but the Orbs are superior in kind to any other vessel you can mention; of course, those spaceships are nothing compared with a Cruiser, but can do a lot of damage.- Shanak said. Yes, with the C Beam.- Johard said, uncovering the fact his wife had already informed him about these matters. Oh, the C Beams! Those are big words.- Daron said, thinking in the price President Hidler could have paid for those cannons. In fact, this could be the shortest war ever! The enemy has complete confidence in his allies, the Federation of Planets. As you know, we are ascribed to the Second Brana brotherhood, the Alliance of Planets- perhaps with smaller associates, but all the while powerful enough to be feared.Shanak said. Sister! I guess the winds of war are blowing your way!- Daron said, thinking that a war was never a good solution- only a delay while solving problems. She smiled, and received a glass of liquor from his husbands hands, and said: There are certain things a person must do whatever the costs. We had been harassed, humiliated, vacillated, and almost exterminated. If not for our

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer benefactor, Mr. Weiher Gofarten (and they all touch their hearts when hearing the cherished name) well be extinct, by now. Daron said: There are no living men in our home planet. The viruses are long dead, but the soil didnt produce crops- its a fact. Something is in the soil that was made sterile.- And he remembered the barren lands and the wind blowing where there was grass in ancient times. Our President Hidler has big ideas- he is going to make our old planet an orchard. We had friends now- the Aurean, the Delta Spooners and the Alpha Mollers- of course, Knapp retires from the Alliance and now teams up with the Federation- a joke. No sense of fraternity at all.- Shanak said, finishing her drink. If you have something to do, sister, dont bother about me! Im going to sleep a little- the voyage and the gravity is asking for a price.- Daron said, smiling apologetically. I understand! Gravity is never the same.- Shanak said, and then she asked; Dear, do you show him a room where to lay his body? Yes, darling! Room five.- He smiled, and she stands up and patting his shoulder, went out to his office inside the house, to prepare for the meetings. Your sister the senator works very hard. But she likes it.- Johard said, rising his shoulders. Daron said yes, and went to his bedroom; in fact, he was not so tired at all, but the fact he was visiting his sister, after many years, was embarrassing for him; of course, he was decided to stay the five days in her home, not because he was economizing in Hotels, but because who knows when he will be able to stay with her again in the future. He starts the holographic set- one of the new agreeable things in the city- for him, a novelty here. The news was being given by a couple of persons, with films of every what was being told. The President Hidler also has a small appearance, giving one commentary on the new Cruisers he was making at the inauguration of a soccer field, saying that soon the Neongos were going to achiever their former glory. Daron slept four hours, and when he awoke again, it was pitch dark; he clapped his hands and the electrical lights shows him the room- by the window, the night was on the city. He takes a shower, and puts on new clothes, from one of his valises, and walked out by the corridor; he searches for his sister or Johard, but they were gone, possibly to work. He decided he was going out to the street, and tasks for a Flier taxi using the Holographic set; soon the vehicle was announced as waiting on the platform up on the building top, and he hurriedly walked there, using the elevator. Where to, Chief?- the voice of the in-built driver asked him. Carry me to the spaceport, driver. Pole 46.- He asked, looking by the window. The city was brilliantly lit, and there were several Fliers coming and going above the buildings. Do you know how many citizens are there on this city?- He asked the driver. 1.002.390, Sir. Not counting the tourists.- The driver said, who was connected with the city databases. All right, and now tell me, if you can, how many Neongos are in this planet.Daron asked him.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer 7.930.303, Sir. Forty per cent are newborns, so you cannot count the number as a workforce.- The driver said, descending on the Space Port and exactly right alongside the spaceship Gula. Daron paid the fare with his wrist bar code numbers. Thanks you, Sir. Good night.- The driver said, ascending swiftly on the air and going out of sight. Daron arrives to the ramp, and seeing an electric crewman on guard there, he said: Good night, sailor. Is Miss Eyeela back? No, Sir. There are no natural people aboard by now.- EC 390 said, bowing. He was metallic, of course, as every Neongo cybernetic creation was at that date. Daron climbs the ladder and by the corridor he meet two more EC creatures, carrying some wires. What are you doing with these wires, people?- He asked. We are wiring the left nacelle, Sir.- One of them said, bowing. Keep on, men.- He said, not willing to delay them in their work. At the engine room he saw that the crew were making some adjustments; he said: Hows going, men? Fine, Sir! The Dylithium crystal is repaired.- One of them said. Theres nothing else more important- except the nacelles. How that is being worked out?- Daron asked, knowing the one in front of him will search the answer in those two at the left nacelle. Soon the e-man said: The wiring is fast doing, Sir. Three hours to complete. Thanks you for your cooperation. Ill be on the Bridge.- Daron said, walking by the semi dark corridors. At the Bridge, the three e-men on duty saluted him, saying: all normal here, Sir. Thanks. Guess theres no call from the Central office yet?- Daron asked, expecting they could said yes, but no calls were received. He needs that call- in five days he should be leaving the planet, or pay for another five days at the Pole 46- the University of Jerifordion has a contract with him- more specimens must be brought from Jerifordion 3 , but the scant outcome of his last voyagejust four cows and a handful on plants could make the dean realize more trips were only a waste of money. He calls on Eyeela, the biologist, but there was no answer. Must be sleeping.He said to himself. He felt a tremor, and looking at the copilot, he said: What was that? Nothing interior, Sir. Its outside.- EC 903 said.- Something hits hard on the floor. He went outside by the open ramp, looking at the big black vessel not forty meters away; from its hatchways the ramps were touching the ground, and soon a lot of military e-men were marching down. He returns to the main cabin, saying: Military men! Too close, for my tranquility. They are telling us to move to Pole 66, Sir. Did I comply?- EC 903 asked him. Yes, move the spaceship- I wonder if they are going to deduce some money for this.- Daron said, and soon they were farther from the cruiser. Huge baby! I wonder what are going to do with those giants.- Daron said. Declare the war on Knapp, Sir. The President Hidler wants revenge.- EC 903 said, with his metallic voice. Yeah, right! Revenge and then what? - Daron said, but he didnt get any answer- the machines were clever and smart, but they werent fortune tellers.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer He waits for a call from the dean of Domicilium University; to not avail- his calls to the Biologist Eyeela werent answered. He worked on the plotting of exotic paths to neighboring stars, that of cause Some e-man could (and did) do in scant seconds. He gets asleep on his seat. Hey, wake up!- A female voice awakes him, and he stared at the person. She was dressed in blue, and was smiling- Eyeela the Biologist was there, smiling. Too tired? She asked, walking to the radars. Oh, no! Perhaps bored. I was waiting for a call, thats all.- Daron said. I was at the University I tried to see the Dean but Mr. Ngronk is on vacation. Perhaps you will be trying to speak with Mr. Negraler; hes the subrogate nowadays.- Eyeela said.

3
Oh, yeah? But he can authorize more trips? And with which base, or project? Daron said. Well, Im just the biologist of the team, remember?-Ayeela replied. Daron realize he was leaning on her, and that was not meant to be- the woman had been very polite the eighteen months of their trip- never accepting romantic insinuations or familiarities from him. Obviously, he was not her type of man. Oh, yes! Sorry.- Daron said, standing up. I come to say goodbye. My assignation to project Cow is ended. I guess I will be sending requests for a job. Next thing- Ill be moving to my parents house.Eyeela said. Daron moves his head and said: Pity to hear that. Perhaps the Dean could resolve your problem, when he gets back. She moved the seat, slowing those long legs that had provoked more than one insomnia to him, and said: Probably but not sure. Daron was sure she will get a job, and pronto: with her good looking self, it was a sure thing.

4
She gets close to him, kissing his cheek- he aspires that perfume he knows s well- and as a butterfly in the forest, she glides away in silence. Daron keeps standing there, under the yellow and green lights of the many panels. EC -903 was on a seat, immobile. Daron was sure the EC was totally indifferent to his troubles. He looks at the clock- 9:13 hours- the new morning was above them all again. He walked out of the freighter, hailed a Flier taxi and soon he was at Domicilium University campus. Finding the subrogate was an easy thing- he was seated behind the big stone desk of the absent Dean, and very happy to be there, as it seems. Come in, Sir! Dont be shy!- Mr. Negraler said, waving his hands. Daron saluted, seating on a chair and said: I guess you dont know how the Dean sent me to find flora and fauna to our mother planet Janarvia III. I brought cattle and plants to be study here and in the best scenario, to contribute to a big heard in order to provide our citizens the best of meat and also milk. The Subrogate looks at him with incredulity; he coughed, moved some gadgets at his desk, and realizes he knew nothing about the matter. Then he said: I was not informed of this. Where is the cattle?

6
The cattle were brought to the farm this University has on the north side of the city by Miss Eyeela, the Biologist.- Daron explained.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer I see.- Negraler said, not realizing what was expected of him. And now, as the Dean Kgronk said, a second voyage must depart into five days more.- Daron said. The Subrogate looked at a screen on his desk, saying; The Dean is currently in vacations and if he told you how he wants things donned, I am not qualified to decide. But thanks to drop by to talk.Daron was not sure about what was happening there: if he adamantly said he was just coming and going, he was only cheating himself- he must make believe Negraler he has something to say too! Or else, Daron will be working for peanuts or worst still, for nothing- ad honorem- no payment at all. I need the money first, Mr. Negraler. You, as the Subrogate, I am sure could afford a signature to your Treasurer, Mr. Finlant. He knows me, so it is sure there will be no problem with him.- Daron advanced his rook. Negraler moves on his seat, saying: What for? If you had a previous deal with Mr. Kgronk he should had paid you all in advance, dont you think? Well, as Mr. Kgronk is not here, you must believe in my word! Or else, tell your secretary to find the document! Youll see he was paying me every time I went there.- Daron said, patiently but with intensity. To his surprise, the Subrogate takes a card from his best pocket, inserted on a accounting machine, and said: Tell me your Bank account, and the money it is supposedly I must pay. Here it is, Sir. The amount is 930.000 Credits.- Daron said, not believing his good luck. Fine. 930.000 Credits it is. Satisfied?- The subrogate said, after the necessary clicking. Yes, Mr. Negraler. You had been of much use to me; I will be paying now for the fuel and other things.- Daron said, happy all around. I hope it is enough, Captain.- Negraler said, and his eyes were like icicles.

7
Yes, of course, Mr. Subrogate. Well, Im going now. Thanks you very much for your cooperation.- Daron said, standing from the chair. The man walks around the desk, saying: A Question, captain: I always wanted to see a freighter by the inside. Could I visit your spaceship before you go? Of course, Mr. Subrogate! Pole 66, Domicilium Spaceport. Go there anytime you want.- Daron said, amused by the strange demand- or not so strange? He thought, adding to his reasoning: Perhaps the man was willing to see there really is a spaceship involved. He walked to the street, and after some blocks, he gets into a dress store, where he bought several clothes for his next trip. He had money now Negraler has paid in advance- and he could buy now all he requires- and more. He rented a room at a cheap Hotel with a tiny bathroom, because it was a routine he always had while in the land: if any problem arise on his stay, his address was an Hotel and not the spaceship- that could be retained just because of him, and trashed around. He found a Tavern and walked in; there was full of cigars smoke and several fat men were on the opposite side, on a raised platform, singing while a drummer was playing on two big drums. They were dressed only with clothes around their waist and the inner parts, and while Daron was there sipping a brew, the chant was as follows I learn and when I perform the incantation to Eridu when I perform the Incantation may a kindly Guardian stand at my side/

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer by Ningursu, master of the sword, mayest thou be exorcised! Evil spirit, evil Demon, evil Ghost, evil Devil, evil God, evil Fiend, Evil are they! Unto my body may they not draw nigh/ before we may they wreak no evil/ nor follow me/ into my house may they not enter. My fence may they not break through, into my chamber may they not enter. From then on, they speak in the ancient tongue, the only scholars and mystics could understand a word. It runs like this: ZI AN NA KANPA KIA KAN PA INIM INIM MA UTUG HUL A KAN. And some other words. A man appears at his side, coming from the street, and asking for a cup of brewed aromatic leaves; he looks into Daron and said: This people are infesting the city! Now that science receives a terrible blow! They are here to pervert the minds with this mumbo jumbo of theirs! Of course, the man was referring to the singers; Daron accented with a bow, not willing to fight anybody that day. The chant keeps on: By heaven you are exorcised! By earth be thou exorcised! Oh, shut up! Yelled the newcomer to them. The fat men begin to sing very rapidly, with the drums beating a fast rhythm: Evil fiends are they! From the underworld they have gone forth, they are the messengers of Bel, lord of the world! The evil spirit that in the desert smitten the living man, the evil Demon that like a dork enshrouded the man, the evil Ghost. The evil Devil that seize upon the body, the Hag demon and ghoul that smith the body with sickness, the phantom of night that in the desert roamed abroad, unto the side of the wanderer have drawn nigh casting a woeful fever upon his body. Daron finish his drink and walked away. He didnt believe in a phantom world and powers within; he walked to his Hotel room, takes a shower and went to bed at the common night time, or the second period of darkness existent at the satellite where he was now and his race. Six hours later, he awakes and after dressing himself on fresh clothes, he went out to the street, finding the merchants road, where tents were raised and every kind of artifacts were in display, using tables. There were new or used; kettles, electrical or not; sheets, costumes, socks, shoes, leather belts, knives, games to play at a table, sport items, fruits and groceries, amulets, toys, even pets. The merchants were occupying eight blocks with their trade. There were also men or women ready to be rented by the hour; these were naturals and they were chanting: here we are natural men and women, fresh for you to taste! Here we are to make you happy day and night! The males sing but with hoarse voices, boasting to produce several orgasms to their clients, by the hour. He rented a blonde and soon they were at a room. You are a tourist.- The woman said, undressing fast. Yes, and why do you ask? With you the matter is safer- no viruses or bacteria in those cryogenic pods you must use to arrive here.- She said, embracing him. Daron was with her until the night, and then he walked to the freighter. He was astounded to see the Subrogate Mr. Negraler there, giving orders to many a natural student, as they climb the ladder with bags and boxes. Whats going on here, Mr. Negraler? Daron asked, not in the best of moods. Oh, captain Daron! Sorry about this intrusion! But as you are going to Jerifordion planet, I thought you could carry our Paleontology team! Professor Rasmussen and his team is going with you!- The Subrogate said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Oh, yeah? And whos going to pay for the extra load? To cryiogenize many people has a price, also the meals!- Daron said, not liking the Surrogates idea.

15
Mr. Negraler said: I am surprised. You had received a nice amount by our University not many hours ago, and now you here doubt of our good intentions? Daron realized he was acting too harsh, and said: Oh, no, I dont doubt you!Well! Thats better.- The subrogate said, looking to the sides- some students were there, looking what was happening. I need to know how many professors and students you are willing to be carrying in this trip, Mr. Negraler. I have just a limited amount of cryo-pods in stock. Twenty three they are, including Professor Moria Feneloden.- Negraler said. Oh, well, we had thirty five cryo pods available. Not in the same room, originally only just twenty cryogenic pods were needed, but I had bought some more pods in order to serve my clients better.- Daron said, not mentioning that the other pods were located in dangerous locations- near the nacelles themselves. Mr. Negraler Then, you can carry them all. Just name the price; I can make the transfer at any time you like. I have a Holographic set at the main cabin; we could go there to make the deal, Mr. Negraler; also, it will be good that you call on the ones you are sending on this trip, to know them better.- Daron said, expecting no problems with them, but all the while, to see if there were someone with too weakly a body constitution- a weak person needs a series of special treatments he was not going to go through. They walked to the main cabin, while Negraler ask some students to call on the rest for a talk; soon they make the transfer- 30.000 Credits more for Darons Bank account- and at the corridor, he said to the students that were lined at the sides: Good afternoon; Im Captain Daron from the space freighter Gula. I call on you, through your able Dean Negraler, to see if theres someone not fit for this trip. And saying that, Daron walked down the lines, to see if there was someone not fit- he finds not one but four; that he signaled out to Mr. Negraler, saying: This four people cannot make the trip, Sir. Negraler looked troubled, and asked why. The physical conditions of this people are weak. Two females, two males; you can see they are thin, pale faced, and I am sure their hearts pumps in a feeble way, also that they had suffered severe illnesses when very young, or they also could be sick right now.- Daron said. Tell us if there is someone sick among you.- Negraler said, and one of the females said: Im with measles but the doctor said I could travel through space with no problems. She is sick.- Daron said, Right; well, Mr. Daron, you will be having four people less in this trip- and of course, students, sorry about you, but the trip cannot wait for you to became in better physical conditions.- Negraler said, feeling sorry for those people. Daron said: The rest of you will get accommodations for the first part of the tripthen, well use the cryogenic pods.- Daron said, dismissing them.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Negraler received a phone call, and after attending it, he said to Daron: Well, captain, I will be going now. Treat my students well. In that moment, a woman approaches them, saying: Sorry, Mr. Negraler, but I was busy when you call on us. Professor Feneloden! This is captain Daron, from this freighter! Mr. Daron, meets our professor Feneloden.= Negraler said. Daron bowed and said; Good to know you, Miss. She was wearing pants and a shirt of yellow color; sandals and looked very young. Hope our presence aboard could be of no occasion of embarrassment, Sir. Our students are smart and full of energy.- She said, with a special kind of delicate voice.

16
Daron said: Mr. Negraler is the renter of my space freighter, Miss Moria Feneloden- you and the rest of the students are welcome on my spaceship. The Subrogate soon departed to the University, saying: Hope your travel will be a tranquil one, Mr. Daron. Farewell! The extra payment was already donned, so Daron was in good spirits. He talked with Exuro the first officer, who was saying: The Students eats a lot, Sir. We should cryogen them right away. Its not the regulation, but proceeds, Mr. Exuro! The locust plague must be controlled.- Daron said, so the Students and the professor soon were all dormant. Doran calls all hands to Deck One, and said: Very well, sirs! We are about to depart. Our tourists are already sleeping, and money is already on my wallet. Furo, a big man in his fifties, said The spaceship is ready, but we arent, Captain! A lot of work and no fun! Why dont you pay us some supplement? Well be having fun before our departure. Daron knew that an unhappy crew makes a good recipe to further mutiny, so he said: Ill give you a thousand grand before departure! I only hope youll be here in three more days! They all were happy with the news- the seven of them and after the duly transference of money to their Bank accounts, they goes down the ramp singing an obscene tune.

17
Daron walked to the Cryogenic pods, whistling the same tune, and remembering when he was a young spaceman. Now the solitude of the big space-freighter was not total- several metallic men were working at different parts of the ship. The night come and go outside- Daron was at the Bridge, when the external communicator resounds; he opened the channel, and a voice said: Mr. Daron! Open the airlock, please! Daron looked at the webcam, seeing Mr. Negraler the Subrogate standing there, while some guys leave valises all around him. Mr. Negraler?- He said, very intrigued by the unexpected appearance. Yes! Open the airlock, please?- That man asked, with some hysterical tone on his voice. Daron calls on a metallic man, saying: Escort that man inside ship. Yes, Captain.- The electronic man said, departing to the airlock. Soon Mr. Negraler was in front of him, saying: Fortunately for me, you still hadnt

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer departed! Captain, I am in deep trouble, but thanks to you I think I can escape my doom! This is, because you hadnt taken off! Well, I give my men three days of shore leave! Guess its what they deserve. Mr. Negraler slumped down into a chair, and said: Mr. Ngronk the Dean has come back! Oh, yeah?- Daron asked, sensing that is heart looses rhythm by a couple of seconds.

18
He told me you was not supposed to have another trip! Also, he refused to accept the trip- the archeological team, in fact, could not travel to Jerifordion! Daron brazen before the threat that was coming his way, and said: The money was paid, and I cannot return the money you give me! The team is already in deep sleep! I cannot believe it! Why? It seems I can remember a regulation against freezing people before the departure?- The subrogate asked him. Daron looked grim. Why this man was arriving to spoil his voyage? And said: But tell me why you are saying you are in danger! Oh, yes! The Dean denies me any escape! He told me he was going to freeze my wages from now on, and the money I had paid was going to be asked of me- legally! So I attacked him- he defends himself very adamantly- but sidestepped and banged his head on a corner.- Negraler explained. And die?- Daron was surprised. And die!- The subrogate accented with a movement of his head. Daron half believed him- of course, it was plausible. Also logical, looking at the case when the money was in between. Perhaps the Subrogate attacked the Dean while he was distracted. Now I am going to be a fugitive from the Justice! A killer! The Dean was therestill.- Mr. Negraler said, sobbing in his seat. Daron half believed his sobbing- he had time to take his personal belongings on several valises- not concordant with an emotional flee. I take some money, too! I will repay your efforts.- The Subrogate offered.

19
Daron was sure the Subrogate wasnt detected. The Police will be studying the scene of the crime- eventually, the Subrogate will be declared suspect- not guilty since nobody saw him commit the crime! Three days! You cannot delay me so much! Call your people! Lets depart!The Subrogate asked him. Daron calls on his men- to not avail. The reception of signals shows that they had their machines disconnected. No way! They dont want any intrusion.- Daron said, showing the red dots on the map. Lets depart without them! I saw you have some Electrical Men! They can man the spaceship for you! Daron wasnt happy with The Surrogates idea. His men were people proved in dangerous situations. I offer you two million Credits if you carry me away!- The voice of Mr. Negraler was the sound of a bugle for Darons hears. He was electrified by that generous offer. So generous that Daron looked at the Subrogate with a doubt dot in his eyes. Negraler repeats: I offer you two million Credits cash! But you must leave at once! Do what you must do, right now!

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer And taking his Credit Card, he inserted it on a Holographic set near his seat. All right, make the deposit!- Daron said, looking how his Bank account suddenly grows with those two million Credits at his name. Then, he calls on the Chief of the E.C. crew on board, saying: We departs, now. Ask for the customary requisitions to the Control Tower. Doing it, Sir.- The E.C. #50 said, using the radio transmitter. Half an hour later, the Freighter Gula departs from its former position, on route to Jerifordion planet. As the travel takes two months, both Naturals underwent into the pods, where they lay immobile and unconscious the rest of the silent voyage. The Electronic Men were in charge of the space freighter. There was scant work to do, as the vessel was already with the necessary speed, and not having air on space, inertia works uniformly. The Star Jerifordion was now in sight- a mere speck of light among million others, but the course was set and it was the target.

21
Five parsecs away from Jerifordion, a Knappian Cruiser was stationed, and asking their goal. One of the EC said: we come from Aquarii, on route to Jerifordion. The officer understood it was an old Jenifordion haven, and said: Satellite Domicilium, the new house of Neongos? Yes, Sir. The remnants are there. How many Naturals on board? Seventeen, Sir. Almost everyone from Domicilium University. The Knappian officer understood it was not a dangerous crew, and asked no more. The EC keeps the communication on record, to show it to Captain Daron afterwards. When inside the Jenifordion Planetary System, the Naturals were awaken and Captain Daron scanned the Planets to know if there were more Knappian presence there- at planet Four there were a mining facility, from the invaders. No presence at planet Three, but indeed the Knappian had two spying satellites orbiting around.- EC #50 tell the captain. Nasty critters! They still hates Neongos race!- Daron said, despising the invaders with all his might. Miss Feneloden, now awake, approaches him, saying: Captain: Where do you think its the best site to begin my work? Because I have some coordinates on my records that resembles to be the best option to land. Let me see it, please?- Captain Daron said, feeding the Holographic set with the tiny memory pill. A section of the planet on that pill was shown on the Holodeck, and was enlarged and certainly there were vegetation and some fauna there.

22
It looks promising.- Miss Feneloden remarked. Very well, well land at the south part of that river you see there on the holomap.- Daron said, choosing that spot as it was flat land for more than three kilometers around. They landed safely; the E.C. descended to scan the place- they found several organic creatures such as Bacteria, Viruses and worms. Dangerous site. Perhaps we should disinfect, sterilize as much as possible before Natural people ventures there.- EC 45 said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Dangerous site?- Daron repeats, looking at Miss Moria Feneloden and to Mr. Fakor, who was pale. I will not leave the ship.- Mr. Negraler said. As you wish. Neither do I.- Daron said- as it was his custom from the beginning of these trips. But Miss Moria Feneloden and the students were very interested in to disembark. I know there is a danger! But I know about viruses and bacteria! If you take samples in any city, youll be finding viruses and bacteria potentially dangerous!- Miss Moria Feneloden said. I cannot let you disembark on these conditions.- Daron said, thinking in his return to Domicilium with or without a pest on board. But you said theres the possibility of to clean the place!- Miss Moria Feneloden said; one of the students said: We can wait until your mechanical men cleans the place. E.C. #45 said: We should waste chemicals and LASER beams in here. I doubt that any vegetation will withstand the fumigation. That sets Miss Feneloden silent. He wants to study but also to preserve the flora and fauna. Well search for another place. But the freighter remains here.- Daron said, and the mechanical men went to scout with the students and the professor in three Fliers.

23
Daron seats at the dinning room, where Mr. Negraler was licking an ice-cream. The woman is gone? Negraler asked him. Yes. They will search for a less contaminated place.- Daron replied, taking a glass of water from the food processor. I cannot return to Domicilium right away. The mistake I made there will hunt me for ever.- Mr. Negraler said. Theres an ample sky waiting for you! Perhaps Earth could be your new place to stay.- Daron said. The eyes of Mr. Negraler were now shining in a strange fashion, and Daron mused about the stability that man could possess now he knew himself as a murderer. Certainly you know about planets! How much could be the cost of a trip there?- Negraler asked him. Daron looked at him, thinking why Negraler seems to have all the money he wants certainly with his wages was impossible to be paying freighters to travel through space and Branas. Tell me how much.- Negraler almost begged. I can take you near a civilized planet, where you can take a Liner to Earth. Plenty of time to think about that, dont you think? Perhaps! Let me see in your holographic set about it!- Mr. Negraler said, and without delay, he begins to search for places.

25
Daron calls on two Mechamen, saying: Put an eye on Mr. Negraler! Hes acting strange- any fumbling with equipments out of the Holographic set, and you call on me. And stop him too?- E.C.# 45 asked, with his metallic voice. Yes, you do it.- Daron said, yawning and going to bed. The away team, conformed by Miss Moria Feneloden and his seventeen students plus four crew managers (Furo, Sieren, Tugor, Benekar and Exuro)

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer were on the Fliers keeping the left side of the river Cientia who had crossed seven cities (Zalu, Birogy, Furum, Xugohe, Rabor, Actir, Rist.) that now were mere wrecks of ancients derelicts. Theres much pity on my heart, looking this ancient glories of our race.- Miss Moria said : Your country?Yes, of course. My ancient relative lives at Birogy city, the one we had left behind as a city of flowers. Certainly the most wooded of all cities, the ecological city of ours! Perhaps viruses and bacteria had spared it in view of it?- Miss Moria asked.

26
A student, named Fekor, said: My relatives were from that city, too. I have the address of what they called Tower 44. Ah! Towers numbered! I remember that: each tower housing more than 44.000 people! Surrounded by eight acres of land, where trees and plants growsverdure, groceries, flower beds and small forest lawns to serve the people!Miss Moria said, and soon they were above that city. It is a real forest!- Miss Moria said, looking how green that whole side of the river was. They descended near the water line- the sole place without much forest- and the mechanical men went out, to scan the air, and the ground. They found Anthrax. Danger.- One of them radioed to the Fliers. Sterilize the area.- Miss Moria said, shutting her eyes- the flora and fauna will had to sustain the possible damage of the chemical compounds! Hours later, the level of poisoning decreased but never disappear (because of the wind) the professor and the students went out of their vehicle and soon they were using their instruments to study the place. Miss Moria saw that the plants and trees were sound and healthy, but no animal was found- the mammals had disappeared together with the avian creatures. Four weeks they were using the place as headquarters, because now they were traveling by the forests- the amount of danger inside the forests were minimal in comparison to the open grounds. Miss Moria was confident now on the future27 Using the forests as the habitat, humans could sterilize the open spaces one by one until the whole planet could be named safe. This trip is going to be historical! Our information could serve to people tired of to be living two short days in one!- Miss Moria said. Apart from the numerous tremors!- Lanar said, a handsome young lady. Tremors? Earthquakes!- Fekor said, a young lad of twenty one years old. The earthquakes are due because the satellite receives much gravitation pull from the mother planet- the inner nucleus is deformed every hour of the day, melting the heavy components with the shrinking and expanding.- Miss Moria said. It could crack any other minute!- Young lady Lanar said, smiling while remembering the phrase being told by her parents at home. It was that satellite or nothing!- Miss Moria said, repeating an old explanation the Authorities often said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer

28
Daron saw them returning, weeks later, and said to EC 45: Take a look at them before allowing their entrance here. Yes, Sir.- EC #45 replied, and with two other Synthetic persons, went out the spaceship to see if the newcomers had some degree of infection. Why our Captain is doing this? We feel fine.- Miss Moria said, feeling herself abused. Orders, Madame!EC #45 said, and soon a sample of their body fluids was treated to see if theres some dangerous virus or bacteria lurking inside their bodies. Two of the students have beginning to be poisoned by anthrax, and the rest has only minor infections- nothing that cannot cure some million units of penicillin Daron was not happy to see them arrive with viruses, but said nothing. The Explorers went to the showers and after that, some liniments were used to fight any other disease they could have attached to the hair or skin waiting the moment to get into the lungs or the stomachs. Miss Moria went to Darons office, and seating on a chair, said: Our team discovered that in the forests theres practically no danger of infection. That is a good new, indeed.- Daron said, looking at her- she has 29 a pair of big eyes very agreeable to look upon. She smiled, showing white even teeth and said: Our race could come back here! Its not wonderful? I mean, they could live here and at Domicilium. Remember the cities they had built there!- Daron said, while she think about that possibility- she was certain everyone will prefer Jerifordion than Domicilium! When could we return to Domicilium? Our job here it is finished.- Miss Moria said, staring at the Captain, who said: I was waiting for you to tell me. As Mr. Negraler the Subrogate is already bored here and willing to depart. She puts her eyes wide open, saying: Bored? Well, it is his fault! He should had gone with us to the field! In that moment someone presses the door buzzer and when Daron opened it, Mr. Negraler walked in, carrying a satchel and saying: Here I have your payment in advance, Captain! When looking at Miss Moria, that was there, he added: Professor Feneloden, hope you are finished here, to return home? Yes, Subrogate Director! At this meeting with the captain, we were discussing that matter. - She said, coldly. Good! Im bored here, of waiting. Too dangerous living here, dont you think? Are you of my same opinion?- Mr. Negraler asked her. She blushed and said: Quite the opposite, Sir! We found spots where the evil is not= the forests! So I am decided to

30
inform not only the University about this, but also to the Media! Everyone must know our home planet is again habitable! Mr. Negraler looked at the Captain and said: Well, every person knows where he wants to stick his head! Me, Im going from here and I will never come back. She stands up and said: Well, its only a matter of opinion! Excuse me now, I have things to do.- And she walked out of the office. Mr. Negraler looked at the door, saying: Good female! Strong and healthy! Guess Ill be having one of those, when at Earth planet- a man should not live alone!

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Daron believes the same thing- if not because of his short interlude with women at Jerifordion, he was sure that, by now, he would had been chasing Miss Moria around the ship. I brought you money.- Mr. Negraler said, licking his lips. He opened the satchel, and a lot of Credit bills were there to be seen. Your trip to Earth is a donned up thing, Mr. Negraler!- Daron said. The Subrogate puts a hand on his arm, and said: Forget about etiquette, Daron! Now we are partners in this! Call me just by my name, Negraler! Forget about etiquette, and Ill call you Daron, just and simply!

30
All right Negraler! These person wants to return to Domicilium first! You could hire somewhere inside the spaceship while I take them to the surface.- Daron says, but Negraler denies with a movement of his head, saying:: NO, no! You are all over backwards in this! Daron was afraid to hear this, and now it was becoming reality. Negraler keeps telling: You take me out of this dangerous spot Im in! I had paid you good money, Daron! You just freeze this people, and with them canned as tuna fish, we just roamed to Earth! There you dump me out, and farewell to our association! You return to Domicilium, delivering this team where they belong, that is, the University of Domicilium.- Mr. Negraler said. We will depart in four hours.- Daron said, counting the bills- they were new and crispy

31
Four hours were spent cryiogenizing people with the help of the Electronic Creatures (EC). Miss Moria Feneloden and the students, the Subrogate Negraler went to the nether world, nor dead nor alive but for a time, non existent- proof that the mind exists based only on matter, and without matter life could not exist except in the realm of fantasy and make-believe. Daron waits for the traverse through Branas; his spaceship wasnt new and because of its bulk, the traversing has some dangers attached. But the old freighter did make the transition; the stars of the First Brana were in front of them. EC #50 makes some calculations and then said: Two years to Earth planet, Sir.

32
Two years? Compute again!- Daron said, growing pale- the two months voyage was changed to two full years? Yes, Sir. Four verifications already say this trip will take two years.= EC #50 said, mechanically. Then, our traverse through Branas had something wrong in it. Check it.- Daron said, becoming angry. Verifications show a difference provoked by a emission of energy produced by a certain unknown vibration, Sir. The fault was not in calculus or in the spaceship field camp.- EC #50 said. Daron walks to the Cryopods, and looking at the dormant, he said: See that they dont get awake until Plutos orbit is achieved.- And setting a pod for himself, he went under cryo with a lot of worries. In fact, the distance was really great, and the dangers were high, because several asteroids were lurking along the way.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer The EC personnel were busy several times a week. The changes of course, to avoid dangerous rocks were numerous, and didnt contribute to shorten the voyage more to the contrary; it was delaying more and more. Three years later, at last the freighter arrives to the Solar System, the cryo pods were opened and Daron could walk among the living once more. To his astonished face, the

33
rest of the cryogenized people werent in good shape. All of the students plus Miss Moria Feneloden were very sick- if the viruses and bacteria were erased and eliminated, why then this sudden disgrace? As Daron wasnt a medic, he just could make assumptions and presumptions while he calls on the authorities- soon the emergency spaceship nearest to their location appears, like a flea near a mammoth, and locked to the freighter. Whats happens to them, doctors?- Daron asked the doctor in charge of the team of five medics. Its strange- a new disease is what we have in here.- Doctor Slate said, rubbing his cheek. Contagious?- Daron asked, very worried for him. Not contagious. Its more like an aging of the tissues, which corrupts all bodily functions. Sorry, but you, your spaceship and everyone on board must be kept in quarantine on our Hospital on Pluto.- Doctor Slate said. But I have another passenger- Mr. Negraler! He is at the only occupied pod, waiting for another destination post.- Daron explained, and Doctor Slate went to the pod, looking inside by the round glass cover that shows the face. Oh, a man! Well, he has to be awakened, too! We must see if he is also sick.Dr. Slater asked. Daron gives instructions to the EC people to comply with the order. Where am I?- Mr. Negraler said, when walking out of the cryogenic pod. At the Gula freighter, Sir. Show me your tongue.34 Dr. Slater said, while other assistant was taking fluid samples of Mr. Negralers body, using a set of needles. One hour later, Dr. Slater said: Infected. Why? He wasnt at the ground- I mean- he never set foot outside the spaceship.- Daron said, amazed. My dear Captain! He must had been in close contact with somebody of the people that is already infected!- Dr. Slater said, amused to see Daron gets puzzled out. Well, If you say so , certainly must be a fact.- Daron said. Dont worry too much!- Dr. Slater said, patting his shoulder.- This things happens! You are not guilty.- And he was taking the instruments inside a satchel. The quarantine.- Daron begins to say, but Dr. Slater interrupted him, saying: Dear Captain! I have a list here of the viruses this poor man has inside his body, as well as the others: Tacaribe complex virus, Togavirus, Tupaia virus, SA 2 virus, Polyomavirus bovis, and murine hepatitis virus! Certainly impossible to get all this in a normal natural environ! Where did you go with this people? Jerifordion planetary system! This is a scientific team from the University of Domicilium!- Daron said, itching all around after hearing the list of the virus. Incredible! Of course, you never heard abut the prohibition to visit that place?Doctor Slate asked him.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer

35
I live at the second Brana- where no prohibition has been issued.- Daron said, thinking that deep space was free of this prohibition the solar System government has issued. Dr. Slater said: Well, I guess you are right. Worst thing it is , that this poor people will be a large time under medical treatment before they get well. You hadnt answered my question: about the time my freighter will be quarantined.- Daron said. I understand perfectly well your position, Captain! But first of all, we must wait for a military spaceship to arrive here- I already sent notice to our Ministry of Health! They will carry your freighter to some secure place, to begin with the medical treatment on the people, and of course, a disinfection of the vessel.Dr. Slater explained. Daron went to his cabin, in despair. He seats on a chair, looking at the holoscreen, where the Deck was in view. There were two Electromen there, idling while waiting orders. For a minute, Daron thought in escape- to travel back to Brana 2, leaving the disease on the medical spaceship, but he cannot compete with a Cruiser. Somebody press the buzzer at the door, and he opened it. Daron! You must help me!- Negraler said. You here? But you should be at the Infirmary!- Daron gasped out.

36
Those doctors know nothing! They told me Im sick! But I feel all right!Negraler said, coughing. The ship will be in quarantine! We are waiting some military vessel- they will be in charge of everything, including us.- Daron said, with passion. Dont wait for them! I have valuables they cannot find! They must not find Im on the run! Take an emergency vessel! We could escape!- Negraler said, but Daron has a whole freighter to loose and said no. Negraler had foreseen such a thing, and producing a LASER gun, he pointed it at Daron, saying: I was not going to do this, Daron! But you left me no choice. Now well take a small vehicle, and well be descending to Earth planet! Daron laughed and said: Do you know where we are? At Plutos orbit! We just could make the trip to Pluto! And theres only a garrison there. Then take the freighter out into space! Im decided to leave this place with my money! I will not spend the rest of my life in prison!- Negraler said, waving the LASER pistol. I know you, Negraler! A desk man! Youll never fire that pistol!- Daron said, but Negraler fired and takes a small portion of Darons arm with it. See? I am decided! The next shot will cut that arm of yours! I had been practicing, you know.- Negraler said, with a sarcastic smile on his contorted face. Daron was not to challenge a madman any more, so he calls on his EC assistants, saying: To all personnel! Prepare the spaceship to a sudden, not commented traverse of Brana!

37
The voice of an EC said, by the intercom: The destiny point, Captain? Aurean planet.- Daron said, looking at Negraler, who accented with a nod. Five minutes later, the freighter and the attached medical ship blurred and disappeared from the solar system.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer At Plutos orbit, and aboard the Orbital Station, Sergeant Lenore said: Commander! A spaceship makes a Brana jump from inside our solar system! Against regulations! - Commander Bliss burped out, chewing a candy. Do you know the name of that spaceship? A big one, Commander! Unknown name.- Sergeant Lenore replied. Some smuggler! Call a Hunter spaceship to patrol that area! Perhaps they left some cargo behind!- Commander Bliss said, who knew how the smugglers try to operate in his area of command- they just leave the object there, a black dot in space; for sometime to quench the alarm, and a pair of weeks later, a radio beam begins to indicate position, so as to alert the recovery spaceship to find the merchandise. Daron and the Gula space freighter appeared next to Aurean planet, medical ship and all. The medic and his staff were very surprised and asking for the captain in all tones. You just ignore those guys, Daron! Sorry to make you upset! I still confide you are my friend.- Negraler said, conciliatory.

38
Friends dont point a gun to their friends!- Daron said, still offended. He was thinking in how he was going to explain Solar authorities the kidnapping of a medical unit. A failure? Forget about it! Now, orbit the planet! Sent me down in a Flier, with some mechanical man at the helm!- Negraler said. All right, you wait here! Ill be preparing things at the engine room! - Daron said, opening the door, but Negraler puts the gun on his pocket, saying: I trust no one! Ill be with you, Daron! See that you dont betray me, or youll find a hole the size of a fist on your chest! Very well, friend. Well do things your way. But then, didnt open your mouth while on the presence of others!- Daron said, decided to let that dangerous paranoid out of his freighter. At the engine room, he said to the three mechanical men at the place: This last Brana jump was made out of an automatic order! A failure on our system! EC #44 said: But you give us the order, Sir! I give you the order! But if someone asks you about this matter, youll say it was a failure.- Daron said. Very well, Sir. Understood.- EC #44 said, speaking for the rest of them. Call Doctor Slater! I need him now.- Daron said to the EC #44. Negraler said: Why are you calling the doctor? Just prepare a Flier to descend to the Aurean planet! All right!- Daron said, walking by the corridors until arriving to the hold where the two Fliers were standing. Some EC were around the place, waiting for orders. 39 Prepare the big Flier! Mr. Negraler is going to the planet!- Daron said to them. Sir: From the engine room they are saying that Dr. Slater is waiting for you, with two assistants, to talk about the present situation.- EC #49 said. Retain him at the place! Ill be with them in a short while.- Daron said, looking at Negraler. You and I are going to retrieve my money at my cabin! Walk!- Negraler said, pushing him with the muzzle of his LASER gun.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer You dont need to poke me around with that gun, friend.- Daron said, but Negraler didnt respond- he was sure the captain puts his interest on the Freighter and nothing else cares him about. They walked to his cabin, and with the aid of the Captain and two EC, they carried Negraler valises and stuff to the smaller Flier; EC #49 seats at the controls and Negraler at another seat. Looking at Daron, he said: You had been a fine friend, Daron! Sorry if I present myself like a ghoul, but it was that or the gaols. All right, Negraler! Dont feel abashed by your own actions! Certainly your idea of a friend is very wrong.- Daron said, and descended from the Flier, that soon afterwards leaves the haul and beginning to fly away from the Freighter. Daron said to the EC #49 by radio: Open the airlock now; well see if Mr. Negraler could breathe the night breeze. Opening the hatch, Sir. Mr. Negraler turns very black in the face, eyes popping and exploding. He is very still now. Oh, then you can return here, EC #49! No need to descend now.- Daron said, smiling, while walking to the Engine room, where he found Dr. Slater waiting. 40 Hope you have an explanation to this situation, Captain Daron! We represent the government of Earth in this minute! Daron see the fire of outrage in that doctors eyes, and said: Sorry about this pitiful incident, Dr. Slater! But it was totally necessary. You need to get those sick people under proper care, Captain!- Assistant Jeanette Flores said- she was a lean woman in his forties. You take them to the surface of this planet! You have the means! My freighter was damaged while traversing the Branas in automatic failure!- Daron said. Automatic failure? Strange technical explanation!- Dr. Slater said, looking at him suspiciously. Yes! A failure makes us made the Jump and appears here! Perhaps a memory circuit gives the order. Not my entire fault.- Daron said. Not your entire fault what was, then, your fault?- Asked Miss Marion Delorme , Assistant to the Doctor. The use of old material. This Freighter has 98 years old- refurbished a dozen times, something fails now and then. I am not a rich person- I think this vessel is asking for a new repair. With luck, I will get repairs in this planet.- Daron said. The face of Dr. Slater softened a little, realizing this was not a kidnapping- as he first thought- but a failure. Very well, then! Ask Aurean authorities to take control of the medical situation here! Then, well travel to the surface- we need to see our Ambassador here, to ask for our return to Earth- not in our present vehicle, incapable of to make Jumps through Branas.- Dr. Slater said. 41 By all means, Doctor! I will provide you with a Flier, if you want.- Daron said, abashed. He was not going to talk about Negraler- dangerous stuff for him, too. No need of your Fliers! We can descend in our own vessel! But first, I want to see an Aurean medical staff here, to tell them about your passengers!- Dr. Slater said. I will make that call right away.- Daron said, walking to Deck One. Call for a medical team!- Daron said to EC #50. Very well, Sir.- EC #50 said, calling for a sanitary mission.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer One hour later, a small vehicle gets attacked to the black hull of the Gula and a team of four e-men appeared on board. You call for a medical emergency, Captain. Tell us about it.- The e-doctor asked, but Daron prefers Dr. Slater to speak, and sent for him. These people are very ill, Doctor AB 302! You will see our scanning and chemical reaction procedures.- Dr. Slater said, handling Dr. AB 302 a memory pill with the information. AB 302 reads it, inserting a fine needle inside; 20 seconds later, he said: They are heavily infected. Medical procedures are required. That was what we thought! But Captain Daron, here present, makes a Brana jump from Earth planet, and we stop in here!- Dr. Slater said. Not relevant, Doctor Slater. We will take them to the Hospital General on Aurean city. I recommend you to go with us, to scan and treat yourself, because the presence of sick people so close to your person must had produced some kind of contagious. - AB 302 said. 42 What for? We are well and sound!- Assistant Flores yelped. Regulations, lady. Every person near a infected person must go under treatment. That includes you, the crewmen and the Captain of this vessel.- AB 302 said. I refuse to go.- Assistant Flores almost shouted. Your refusal is inadmissible. Doctor Slater: tell your team to go in peace and willingly, or the Spatial Army will know about this. Their methods of persuasion could be very harsh in people.- AB 302 said, looking at the woman, who trembled. I will see to it. Well cooperate. Theres no point in making of this a situation.Dr. Slater said, putting a hand on that womans shoulder. Two hours later, and in both medical spaceships, the whole natural populace of the Gula freighter was descending into Aurean atmosphere. Daron Hinauer was looking at the passing clouds feeling himself in trouble, notwithstanding he has now more millions than before. At the Hospital General of Aurean City, the group was divided, separated in several rooms; airlocks in place, medical staff taking samples, examinations made by e-men and some natural doctors and their teams of natural people. Four days later, Daron was told he could go free of any viruses. Same thing to the Doctor Slater attendants but, amazingly, not to him, who had contracted the Ebola virus- and died, together with Miss Moria Feneloden and all of the remaining group. Daron takes room at a Hotel, from where 43 he calls unto the EC #50 and the rest of the electronic men on board the freighter. This is Daron speaking. Whats the status over there? EC #50 said: A medical team comes and disinfected all areas where naturals abide. They told us not to allow natural people previously on board except the Captain. But did we have some quarantine or what?- Daron asked the mechanical man. No quarantine, Sir. Die I sent a Flier to pick you up?- EC #50 asked him. Yes, sent a Flier to the Aurean Spaceport. Well be arriving there shortly.Daron ordered.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Very well, Sir. Call us to know where it will be allowed the descent.- EC #50 propose. Daron out.- He said, ending the conversation. The panorama looks clear to him, now. The future was bright. Troublesome people were out of the way. At eighteen hours, the Flier was allocated on Pole #020 and Daron and his team arrives on a Flier taxi, and walked to the Wagon Flier, being received by the EC #42, saying: Welcome aboard, Captain! I brought you sandwiches! Daron and his team eats them, surprised to realize he has not eaten in two days. He said: Lets move right away. The fares are incredible high around here. The Flier ascended swiftly among dozen others- soon they were traveling inside the Gula. The air restored inside the hold, he walked out of the Flier and into a corridor, while the rest of the team went to their posts or cabins. Daren looks on the news- about the freighter 44 and their cargo of sick people. Scant news about it- the importance was given to some artists and their debauchery proceedings while on a tour. He calls on EC #50 and said: Tell me about the general status of this freighter. Could we make more Brana jumps? Twenty more, Sir. It all depends on our Dylithium Crystals.- EC #50 replied, and Daron realize he should buy more of those, if he wants to keep on the business. He spent some hours advertising travels for miners- also to anyone willing to move merchandise among the Aurean Planets. He knows how much the transporters had changed the traffic of goods- instantaneously and without much danger of loose the cargo. The competition was to be lost, due to the lower prices they asked, but there were people who believe that their original products were not the one received at the other side of the line. Example of their assert was that, in cases where goods were lost due to failures in communication, the Company just replace the goods using the copy of the original existing on the point of departure He asked for Dylithium and a good crystal costs eight million Credits, a very big sum. A reconstituted crystal could cost two and a half million Credits, but at the Aurean Market 45 those were not to be found. Daron realize he was going to visit Earth, if he wants a cheaper price. He went to the surface in a Flier, with two EC. Assistants (number 48 and 49), leaving #50 and the rest aboard the Gula. The city was Aurean, the biggest of all at the planet, colonized by Knappian people, and the memory of it was everywhere. Also in the language. The air was full of Flier vehicles and Wagon fliers too- Daron thought about the Transporters- if not present, the circulation could have been a hundred times more profuse. He enters a Hotel, named Arria, where the people were old and respectful to each other. He likes the atmosphere, and takes a suite for himself. At the Holographic set, were dancing young females and prices were being flashed in and out, so Daron realize they were for hire. Naturals or not, the show didnt tell. Daron takes a shower and slept for three hours, feeling refreshed , he puts his clothes on and went out to shopping; he bought shoes and several clothes to wear without worrying about the laundry; there were also disposable clothes,

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer but used by the low people, he didnt buy them, as he wasnt interested in being despised. He returns with those purchases to his Hotel room, and calling to the Gula freighter, he said: Any news? No, Sir! The orbit its the same, and all systems are go.- EC #50 said. Very well, keep it that way.- Daron said, smiling- he was very proud of his spaceship, no matter how old it was; then he slept again for a couple of hours, and dressing with new clothes, he went out to the street again. 46 His Two companions were object of curiosity at the street and at the lobby of a Hotel; a rich man approaches him, saying: Are you the sole owner of this creatures? Daron looked at the man, who was wearing a tunic and wide pants; perhaps an Arab of some kind, and he replied: The sole owner of them and others I am. But, who are you to ask me about this? Sorry to bother you, Sir. Im Chancellor Tupine.- And the man makes a pause to be recognized, but Daron has no information about him, so he said: A pleasure to meet you, Chancellor. Yes, well, I wonder if you could sell this mechanical wonders to me. I knew about these creatures when visiting Domicilium city, some time ago now. To see them and remember those times makes me feel melancholic.- The Chancellor said, with an honest look. I see there are not many of them in this planet.- Darude said. The Chancellor asks to one of the EC: What is a Chancellor? And the mechanical man said; The Chancellor serves mainly as an officiator of parliamentary procedure and the first among equals in the Senate. He is the head of the Senatorial Council. It is a very prestigious position, and the Aurean Chancellor had a grand office in both the Senate Chancellery and in the dome-like Senate office Building in Aurean City. The Chancellor is properly addressed as Your Excellency. The symbol of his office is a circle surrounded by twelve petals. You were elected among the Senators by the Aurean Senate 47 and served the term that lasted four years, but you could be reelected, as in your past. A Chancellor could legally serve as long as their peers vote for him as such. Chancellor Tupine smiled and said: Very accurate.- And turning to Daron Hinauer, he added: Sir: if you dont want to sell me one of this mechanisms, at least permits me to present them to some guests of mine tonight. It will produce what they call atmosphere of wonder, instead of another bored meal! I could ask, and they will answer, and so on. I dont know.- Daron said, thinking he was not going to lend those mechanisms for nothing- that, if the man was really a Chancellor. My dear sir! I must invite you too! Youll have your beings always at hands reach! Also, we must talk before the banquet perhaps I could also present you as an amazing person.- Chancellor Tupine said. Daron was unsure, and looked troubled. The Chancellor whispered in his hear: And forget about time lost while helping me! I will pay you for your time!Daron accepted, and Chancellor Tupine said; Please, accompany me for a while. We will depart to my office at the Dome.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Daron was happy to see the places where the powerful worked- never been in places like those- at least, he thought, his clothes were clean and new. The Chancellor uses a governmental Flier with a pilot (A Synthetic person, male model) that opens and shuts doors for them to climb or to descend. The Mechanical men (EC 48 and EC 49) 48 were told, by Daron, to communicate with the ones at the Space Freighter everything that was happening, just in case of trouble. The Flier went to the Dome- a circular tower 240 meters high, and two blocks wide. On the upper terrace, vehicles landed and departed like bees in a beehive. Dont get frightened! They know how to drive.- Chancellor Tupine said, looking how worried Daron seems to be. I am an astronaut, Your Excellence! I just get worried because in space there is not such jamming!- Daron said, and Chancellor Tupine smiled and said: A whole Captain! Certainly you must have more than one anecdote to tell! Yes, Your Excellency, more than one!- Daron said, and by a strange association of ideas, he envisions Subrogate Negraler resting on the blue depths of the Aurean Ocean They descended and walked to the elevator- there were several of them, but the Chancellor uses one of the four that had a bronze like cover- for V.I.P.S. The interior has several mirrors, and Daron looked at him- and the mechanical men. He was as fat and chubby as always- the Electronic Creatures were dressed on green uniforms, using the standard black shoes, capable to last centuries without a scratch. And when do you have your vessel, Captain? Or you are just as a tourist in town?- Chancellor Tupine asked him, looking inquisitively. The Gula is in orbit, Your Excellency! Its a freighter; Im trying to get some cargo, but it has been difficult, due to the new transporter system.- Daron said. Oh, yes! The Transporters.- Chancellor Tupine said, rubbing his chin; he was also aware of that fact. 49 There were some Secretaries on the first office, and they salute the Chancellor verbally and with bowings; at the Chancellors office, Daron could saw a view of the city; the desk of the Chancellor Tupine was to the right- to the left there were several armchairs facing a new model of Holographic set he has never seen before. You can rest at the Holographic set, Captain! You just be at home here, while I attend some people.- Chancellor Tupine said, pressing a button on his black and shinning desk. The Secretaries enters and begin talking with him about affairs of this post. Others also come, to talk about different topics, while Daron saw the news, and later dozed, in the company of his two Electronic Creatures, that were standing close to him and in the alert. At 21.00 hours, A Secretary comes to his side, saying: Mr. Captain, please, takes this sandwich and this cup of coffee! Or do you prefer tea? Daron was sleeping, but he awakes and said; Oh! Yes, Thanks you! Guess I get asleep here. Wheres the Chancellor?- And that he said because there was nobody there but him and the Secretary plus the two Electronic Creatures. His Excellency saw you sleeping and told us not to awake you until 21.00 hours, and as you can see, its 21 hours already. You are awake and serving a

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer coffee later, the driver of his Excellency will take you to his house.- The Secretary said. Daron looked at her- blonde, nice looking and smiling- 21 to 30 years of age, and he said Pardon me, lady, but which is your name? Heikela , Second Secretary to His Excellency! She said, without loosing her smile. 50 Beautiful name!- Daron said, trying to build some kind of connection with such a beautiful woman. He finished his coffee and standing up, he said: Im ready to go, Miss Heikela! She guide out of the office- Daron looked back, to remember that nice place that was his dormitory for some hours, and said: At the way out of the elevator therell be another person to guide you for the rest of the way. Nice to meet you, and farewell. Bye, Heikela!- He said, stepping into the elevator with his two Electronic Creatures. As the Secretary said, at the end of the climbing the doors opened and a man, dressed in etiquette, bowed and said: I am Marubelo, first Secretary of his Excellency! Good to know you.- Daron said. Thanks. We are going aboard the Flier, now. By the way, how much your Assistants weight?- Secretary Marubelo asked. A hundred and thirty kilos each. Why? Too heavy for your Flier?- Daron asked him. No, Sir, but I must ask- 800 kilos its the maximum permissible for a tourist, and between us, and the driver, well be having 470 kilos -Marubelo explained. They get aboard the green painted flier- in fact; it was a Penthouse on one of the many buildings east to the City. Nice building! Pure Crystal reflecting the mood of the day.- The First assistant to Secretary Marubelo said, with certain petulance. 51 CHAPTER #2. AT THE CHANCELLORS DINNER

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer The platform was very close to the Chancellors penthouse, but divided by some artificial trees that permit the necessary privacy. We are going to tell His Excellency of your arrival. Please awaits here.- The first secretary Marubelo informed. Very well.- Daron said, and they were at the side of a wide expanse, with flower beds. He could feel the wind coming from the west, while his eyes sparkled with the many lights the city has by night. Three minutes later, Secretary Marubelo returns, saying: Captain: His Excellency will receive you right now. He told me to explain you this: act natural, theres nothing to be worried about. Thanks, I will bear that in mind.- Daron said, marching behind the man, with his two mechanical Assistant at his rear. The Saloon was long and wide. The Chancellor walks to his presence with a wide smile, saying: Welcome, Captain! Did you sleep well? :Yes, thanks you very much! And Im sorry about it.- Daron said. Dont be! You are in a new environing, and certainly you must have time to adapt! Now I will present you to some people, who also want to know your exceptional companions!- And certainly, he was referring to the Electronic Creatures. Mechanical intelligences. Daron looked around while he was following the Chancellor- the guest were dressed in 52 nice suits and (the ladies) enchanting and expensive dresses. They were older than young people, and the stares were cold as ice. The Chancellor announced that a couple of Electronic Creatures were present, brought there by a spaceships captain, and invited them to see in function those wonders of an alien civilization. Captain: where do you bought these Artificial Intelligence beings?- He asked. At the Domicilium satellite, your Excellency! The Neongos from Jerifordion planet lives there since a hundred years ago, and they had produced this wonders of science not willing to reproduce humanoids like us but metallic assistants.- Daron replied, as he knew the reason since his childhood. Very well put! - The Chancellor said, applauding; his guests looked at Daron and did likewise; then the Chancellor asked a question to each EC, and after hearing the responses, he said to his guests: With the permission of the Captain, you can ask questions to this wonderful persons. And while the guests, now in two groups, amused themselves making improbable questions to the Electric Creature, the Chancellor approaches Daron saying: I beg you pardon, Captain, but you must tell me your name! Its Daron Hinauer, your Excellency. Very well- I was aware of it- I mean, I should had asked you at my office, but I spent too much time attending my business and I had lost my manners in some ways.- The Chancellor excuses himself. And myself sleeping.- Daron said, apologetically- the Chancellor walked to attend other guests, and Daron heard no less than fifty questions from those guests, that tried 53 to outsmart the E.C., without any success. The Chancellor intervenes, rescuing the E.C. from the hurricane of questions and invited them all to the dinning room; Daren was left behind, but then the

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Secretary Makubelo approaches him, saying: His Excellence begs of you to attend dinner, Captain! Thanks.- Daron said, smiling, and with the E.C. enters the next room; it has a long table made of yellow plastic, with chairs of the same material. The light was produced by three helium globes hanging from a high roof. Notwithstanding the number of guests, the table has more than enough space for them all, so Daron seats almost at the end of a long line of guests. The Chancellor said a few words in behalf of his guests and the generosity to attend; then, several plates begin to be places in front of every guest, by a swarm of assistants- fish was served, with salads and big eggs on metallic recipients; everyone talks to his neighbor- the lady on his right asked about the E.C. , while the gentleman at his left eats with too much enthusiasm to speak much. After the fish, a soup of seafood, and a big glass of desert, several flavors in each cup. Daron notice that liquor was absent, but there were jars with juice from different fruits. The old lady drinks some juice and said: Why do you not drink? These are natural juice! No ersatz in this table!- And giggled. He tasted a green glass of juice, finding it palatable. The Secretary Mr. Makubelo tapped on his left shoulder, saying: Mr. Daren! Please 54 approach His Excellency! Hes talking about you to certain guests! Right away!- Daron said, and walked to the other extreme of the table. Chancellor Tupine was there, smiling, and offering a vacant seat at his right side of the table, and said: But, Captain Hinauer! You left your seat vacant here, and seats at the other side of this table! Sorry, Your Excellency! I didnt know I had a seat so close to you! Never mind, but now seat!- Tupine said, while the rest laughed amiably. Then, he added: Captain Hinauer! My guests are very interested in your life among the stars! Please indulge us, and let us know some of your anecdotes in deep space! Daron has lots of anecdotes to tell, and he satisfied the audience with three of them; Chancellor Tupine ends the tale by saying two jokes, and then an Assistant invites everyone to dance. Daron saw them dancing- it was a strange way to dance, with much walking to and fro, bowings and clapping of hands. Several guests mistakes the turns- included him- and laughter was very common. A clock strokes midnight, and everyone begin to depart, thanking the Chancellor for those good moments. At last, only Daron was presenting his farewell, but the Chancellor said: wait until the morning! I also must pay you! Oh, no, your Excellency! I had the pleasure of to be like one of your guests, and I will not forget this generosity of yours! I insist! I also have rooms for my guests in here! Please, stay.- And as Daron was noticing it was almost impossible to leave without incurring in a discourtesy to his host, he stayed. The Assistants guides him to a very luxuriously furnished bed room, and give shim instructions on how to use the adjacent bathroom. And dont hesitate to ring the bell, Sir! Well be attending at the other side of the line throughout all the night.- An Assistant said. A sandwich, perhaps? Or soda water?- Daron asked, very amused with all of this it was happening to him.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Yes, Sir. But beverages you have already in your suite.- An Assistant shows him what, at first sight, resembles a part of the wall- with a gentle pressure, there was a door that opens, showing glasses and bottles- not every one of those juice, but also liquor. Daron takes a shower, and went to bed. Before turning the lights off, a female in a night gown enters the room, and into the bed, saying: Good evening, Sir! Or should I call you Captain? Call me Captain.- He said, embracing her, very happy with his luck. At dawn, an Assistant awakes him, and said: Captain: his Excellency is waiting for you at the dinning room. Daron blinked under the light and said: Tell him I go right away!- And the beautiful lady was at his bed, sleeping. He jumped to the shower room and takes a quick bath, puts on his dress and walked 56 out of the bedroom, followed by his two E.C. Sir: from the ship theyre saying the Freighter has already cargo to deliver.The Mechanical men (EC 48 and EC 49) said, much to the surprise of Daron. Tell them Ill be there today. Prepare everything for the departure.- Daron said, energized in front of something to do. Chancellor Tupine indeed was at the table, halfway with his daily breakfast; he salutes him with a wave of his hand, saying: Good morning, Captain Hinauer! Have a seat!- And pointed to his right at the table. Daron seats, saying: Glad to be under your hospitality, your Excellency! I had a very good night. Oh, yes? Hope you like the stove I sent you.- The Chancellor said, smiling knowingly. A superb gift if I may say so. Unexpected, by my part.- Daron said, while Attendants serves him the exact amount of food and drink the owner of the house was already finishing. Glad you like it. Ill be going to the house of government and stay there until eighteen hours, but you could stay here, or come back to lunch- I have things to discuss with you.- The Chancellor said, standing up. But your Excellency, I - Daron was saying, but the Chancellor cuts him short, waving his hand. Tell me about it at my return! Bye! Daron smiled and waved back. Obviously, Mr. Tupine had important things to do, and little time to waste. He finished his breakfast, and then an Assistant 57 approaches the table, saying: Sir, we have orders to attend you throughout this day. Thanks, but I rather be going.- Daron replied. As you wish, Sir, but permits me to say what you could do here, at any time you want until His Excellency arrives= auto play tennis, billiard with an Assistant, depart with the lady you had last night, lunch, holographic set available, any kind of food and drink. Daron looked at the Assistant: middle aged, respectful looking and a glint of boredom on his grey eyes. I thank your boss for these differences, Sir.- Daron replied. Jaivor is my name, Sir.- The man said. Jaivor. But I really must get going; I have a spaceship with cargo on the orbitpossibly I should start traveling today.- Daron said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer But you must attend his Excellency at eighteen hours! I beg of you to delay your departure!- Jaivor asked. Daron was in debt, so he said: I will be here at eighteen hours, sharp. Thanks you, Sir. His Excellency is a generous man, and deserves some respect.- Jaivor said, while other Assistant takes the remnants of the breakfast on a tray. Daron said: I wonder if you could ask for a Flier taxi. I get to be at the space port now. you can use the Second Flier, Sir. This way, please.- And he guided them to the platform and into a Wagon Flier; in it, they were at the Space Port in five minutes. Daron gives the thanks to the Driver, and with the 58 two E.C., climbed to a shuttle craft, that carried them to the Orbital Station. Daron gets the information necessary about the cargo through the E.C., and paid the necessary fares to deploy orbit and leave the Aurean Planetary System, as the cargo was granted to be delivered at Knapp planet. At eighteen hours, Daron arrives back to the Chancellor house, without the E.Cs. Javior receives him, saying: You are punctual. His Excellency has a delay, but sent notice to attend you well until his arrival. Daron enters the saloon- a wide room with plenty of fine furniture, saying: Oh, well, I have time! Perhaps I could use the Holographic set, to see the news? Yes, Sir. And perhaps you could also rest at a bedroom? With some lady? Darons eyes went watery, and with a bumpy heart, he said: Really? Did I have time for that? Of course, Sir. But if Chancellor Tupine arrives earlier, I will sent notice to your rooms.- Jaivor said, with an unmovable face. Daron was happy to walk to the dormitory; soon the lady was there, smiling : Hi, Daron! Glad to see you are still here! Yes, I was invited by the Chancellor- Gregoria.- He said, knowing her name from the night before. She takes her garments off her wonderful body, saying: There is little time to waste, dear! Come to me! At 19.20 hours, and Attendant calls him by the Holographic set, saying: Captain Daron: his Excellence calls and said hell be here in fifteen minutes more! Be ready, please? Yes, Im coming!- Daron said, kissing the beautiful lady for the last time, and Gregoria murmured: Bye, dear! He gets dressed and 59 walked out to the corridor. The Assistant said: Perhaps you could wait His Excellence at the saloon. This way, please.- And he guided him there. Soon afterwards the Chancellor arrives in a group of seven other persons: two females and five males, seeing that Daron was waiting, he said: Captain! Hope you had not been bored waiting for us! But here we are, to discuss some matters. Glad to be of service, your Excellence, and thanks for your fine hospitality.Daron replied, remembering Gregoria. This is Captain Hinauer, dames and gentlemen. Captain: These are Miss Egigga and Miss Nexra from the Ministry of mines, and Mr. Asalluxi, Azag, Egura, Kigal, Firik, from the Chancellery.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Glad to meet you, ladies and gentlemen! - Daron replied, feeling himself out of place. They seat on comfortable arm chairs, while assistants served them liquor; the Chancellor guides the conversation from the weather and the birds recently imported, to more important matters. Miss Egigga, I congratulate you for your success. The mines at the Aurean planet III are finally producing huge amounts of Dylithium, Torio and Uraniumall three mayor requested minerals nowadays. Miss Eggiga, a tall and blonde woman in her fifties, smiled and said in an agreeable voice: Thanks for your words of praise. At last our tiny community has something of value to trade. With the profits well grow exponentially; in fifty years, provided the mines keeps delivering those minerals in a steady form, our community will 60 be richer enough to grow and be of notice. We are working hard to achieve that goal, for the sake of our entire community.- Miss Nexra said, the Superintendent of that Ministry Department. The Chancellor looks at Daron, saying: And here we have a freighters captain, Mr. Hinauer! I dated him here for this purpose- certainly he knows about carrying minerals to other planetary systems! Daron knew all about it, and said: Provided that you had the means to carry those minerals from the surface of the planet to an orbit, therell be no problem carrying the product elsewhere! But we did! Powerful shuttles are already in place. We need space freighters to take the minerals from Aurean Planetary System to Knapp- by the moment. Are you able to make those trips?- Miss Egigga asked him. Right away, Im afraid not- the reason is simple: I had my cargo already shipped.- Daron replied. But you could, eventually, be of service to us?- Assistant Asalluxi asked him. Quite all right, yes! As soon as I get back.- Daron replied. Chancellor Tupine said: We will appreciate your concourse in this enterprise, Captain Hinauer. I am in debt with you and your hospitality, your Excellence! And I will be of service at the minute I get back.- Daron said. Of course!- Miss Nexra ,the Superintendent of Mines sarcastically said.Perhaps you could keep on with your business; instead of you, Chancellor Tupine could ask to some Freighters company their services. In that way, your absence will be of no significance for our purposes. 61 She was downright direct, and Daron finds her a good executive, but says nothing more. Chancellor Tupine said: What is important here, its that our miner is on the rise. I congratulate you, Miss Egigga, because under your guidance is that this achievements had taken place. Thanks you, Chancellor.- She said, smiling. They went to dinner- Daron was very disappointed, he was thinking in the embarrassment he had suffered and still was suffering. He went to the bathroom- he asked an Assistant for it- and then he found the door out of that penthouse. He went down to the street, and begin walking among the people until he recovered his North; he bought some

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer more clothes, and called to the Hotel, asking both E.C. to take a Flier Taxi to the Spaceport- where he planned to be in some minutes. As said, he also traveled there, and with the pair of E.C. went to the Freighter, where he said to EC # 50: Prepare everything for departure. At the main cabin, or Deck One, he said to EC #45: How many of our crew are on board? Every Electronic Creatures, captain.- E.C. #45 said, from the Radars seat. All right, were going. - Daron said, while they get the necessary authorizationmore than anything, just to know they werent going to bump 62 against some vessel. The Gula moves out of the orbit and begin finding the way out of Aurean Planetary System. E.C. #50 said, from the Communications room: Message for you, Captain. Someone called Chancellor. Very well, put him on the Deck Holographic set.- Daron said, walking there, finding it was his former host who was there looking at him through the holographic set. He was apparently on his own office. Captain Hinauer! What happens with you? You left me with my guests without a word!- And he was very serious. I am sorry, Your Highness! But I was so out of place there that I couldnt stand it anymore! Now I am beginning my travel to deliver some goods at Knapp planet. Chancellor Tupine said; I guess you were embarrassed by that lady, the one who said you should be out of our project! But never mind, I am the one who said yes or no, and I am adamantly sure you are a good element to be of use! You must take critics with a stone face, Mr. Hinauer! While you grow in society, there will be more and more people trying to abash your actions! Thanks for your encouragement! I only feel I wasnt at the height of your generosity.- Daron said. How long it will take for your return? Remember I could give you a good job here, at your return.= Tupine remembered him that fact. Thanks you for your generosity, your Highness! I think we will return here in about five months.- Daron replied. Well, then it is a delay of five months. Call me when you come back, Captain.Tupine asked him. :I will, your Highness.- Daron said, and the communication was over. 63 Daron remained there for a while, and think about what happens with the Chancellor- everybody has a motive to help. Which could be his motive? Not finding one, he went to the engine room, to talk about nacelles with EC #50. Hi, captain! Ready to be freeze?- EC #50 said, while seating in front of the console. As ready as possible!- Captain Daron said, smiling. Please, Captain! You dont like to lay still as a sardine on an oil can! At least, this trip will take only two months.- EC #50 said. To Knapp planet! I wonder how things are running over there.- Daron said. As usual, of course. The King Knapp XIII must be busy on administration business and the courtesans helping him, Sir. Common people, must be struggling as they can to survive.- EC #50 said. Some day Knapp will change! The Republic are on the heart of people- the kingdoms are doomed.- Daron said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Perhaps, Sir, but not where they have a big Army. And the King at Knapp has a big Army Forces.- EC #50 remembered. One of the old traditions of kings was to rage war against the neighbors. In that way, they unite the people against somebody else so they keep on commanding the country.- Daron said. Sir, we must focus on the Dylithium crystals. This trip will take a bit of our only crystal- nineteen more and well be out of energy.- EC #50 said. 64 Not in Knapp! Theres no selling of Dylithium there. Also, they are accumulating the Dylithium from years ago! For their Cruisers, they said.- Captain Daron said. So you should be going to Earth, Sir.- EC #50 recommended. Yes, they sell Dylithium crystals to everybody with money to buy. Big stock that they did have.- Captain Daron assured him. Four days later, he was cryiogenized . The Synthetic people take control of the spaceship that was marching top speed- Warp 6. Not much if compared with a Cruiser, or a Hunter spaceship, but for a Freighter, was enough. Twice they were hailed by military spaceships, and twice the Electronic Creatures explained everything about them, so they were allowed to keep on without much ado. At the vicinity of the Knappian realm, the Freighter was ordered to stop at planet v, for inspection. EC #50 opened all pods immediately, reviving Captain Daron. Did we arrive to planet Knapp?- He asked, blinking under the lights. Not yet, sir! We are going to be checked by the Royal Knappian Patrol.- EC #50 informed. Daron was astonished. What for? Knappian realm wasnt at war. At least, not when Daron begin this trip. Very well, we cooperate.- He said. They could plant us any evidence, Captain. Ill be behind them at all moments.- EC #50 said, and Daron acknowledged. The Royal Frigate takes all the time of the world to get near the Freighter, and when it does, an officer appears with eight Assistants, all of them Synthetic persons- to revise the cargo. At the Air Lock, Daron received them. 65 Welcome to the Gula; I was born in Knapp. I am bringing some cargo to Knappian merchants.- Daron said. All right, show the documentation to me.- The officer said, and when the Captain delivers a memory pill with that information, the officer handled it to a Synthetic assistant, that reads it and said: Four cargo hauls to see. Well use the scanners. They were guided by two E.C. from the Freighter and the eight Synthetic persons revised and scanned the cargo hauls thoroughly. The natural Officer walks around the place making questions three hours later, the Synthetic space soldiers gives the confirmation that everything was in accordance with the law, and so the natural officer said: Seems all its in correct order. You can proceed.- And departed out with his team. We can keep on now.- Daron said to his crew, and the mediums sized freighter begins to accelerate again- not much, as they were already into the planetary system.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Hours later, and among certain number of other vessels, the Gula space freighter obtained the authorization to orbit the planet while discharging merchandise. In front of them it was the whole planet to see, if the clouds permits; wide and blue oceans, green continents with brown streaks of mountain ridges, and the glare of the ice at the poles. It is really a beautiful planet, and only Earth could match its beauty.- Daron said, while he began calling to the clients, in order to deliver the cargo. There were important Companies so they answered to the call with interest. To them, Captain Daron said: Your cargo is going to be delivered in orbit. But if you want it at the surface, 66 There will be an extra charge. Everyone but one of them accept the price, except a Lady General Manager. She refuses to pay, and threatened him with a lawsuit if not accepting his idea. The more Daron explained the reasons, the more that woman refuses to pay, even with words of offense against the captain. In the next days, Daron delivered the cargo using his two Wagon Fliers; several voyages to each Company were to be made, as the cargo hauls werent big enough at the Wagon fliers that he have. The Freighter indeed could land, if authorization for to do so was given, but the Kingdom of Knapp had new laws forbidding big spaceships to descend to the planet. 67 A month later, the lawsuit was won by Captain Daron, and the lady Manager has to pay twice- for the shuttle craft she hired, and to the lawyer that defends (and fails) her on trial. Daren had hired a new crew while waiting in the orbit. He receives them at a room on the space port- hired three of them. They were Foren, Arkilon and Raneton. It will be just a week for our departure. Meets me here at the Spatial Platform, and well leave the planet for a long trip.- He told them. They asked for more time to leave their personal affairs in working order, so Daron said: I will permit it, if only saying where are you going to be, in case I need to depart in a hurry. The men swears that they were going to be at the new appointed date ten days in the future- and one of them said: Ill be at Oxiborion: you dont know how many nice women are in that place! And in swimming suits all the time! Daron knew, then, that Arkilo thrives for women, and said: I will visit you there, if you can make an extra appointment with women. Why dont you go with me, Captain? Im a magnet to women!- Arkilo boasted out. Daron calls on his E.C. and said: The new crew will arrive in ten days hence. Pay attention to them- if someone is lacking expertise, just let me now to fire him out. Yes, Sir.- E.C. #50 said, obediently. Daron was on Oxiborion now; and searched for a nice Hotel near the beach, but he finds out the prices were very high: 3.540 Credits for a night! So he begin searching for cheaper places to stay, and at the street he finds people were by the thousands- the vehicles were very rare, except the Flier taxis; the rest of the mobilization was now by the Transporters, who were fast and cheap.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer He refuses to use that method- instead, he was walking by the street until he finds an Hotel suitable both in price and comfort- luxury was not present. He resents not having an aid, so he called to the Freighter, and asking for two E.C. as his personal Assistants to E.C. #50 to be sent to Hotel Miramar. 69/70 The E.C #50 revises the Hotels and the brief information that were of each one, and said: Where do you said you are, Captain? Hotel Miramar, Oxiborion!- Daron replied, half disagreeing being asked again. Captain! You are at the Center of the Sissy Quarter of Oxiborion! Watch your back tonight!- E.C. #50 recommended. Daron was spellbound and said: Guess I will leave this Hotel right away! Do you want an advice, Sir? Move to the Twin Towers. A nice Hotel, if you dont mind to hear some traffic outside the door. Cheap prices and big rooms.E.C. #50 informed. No sissies there? - Daron asked him. No, Sir. Only noise- but inside the room, youll be getting silence, as the adds said. By the way, Mr. Sieren is there- room 200.- E.C# 50 said. Good advice. Ill be moving myself in there.- Daron said, finishing the conversation. The immobile face of EC #50 seems to be laughing at the Holographic set Daron went out and gives the key to the Attendant at the desk: he had paid for only three nights, so he asks for the refund- a lady said: you are leaving on your own account, Sir. No refund is available. Daron grumbled a little and then he takes a Flier taxi to the Twin Towers Hotel. CHAPTER #3. THE TWIN TOWERS HOTEL.

This one was located near the pier, a couple of gleaming towers with a platform half way up; the Flier descended there, and he was attended by Synthetic Assistant of the Kind AB, one of them saying: Are you looking for accommodations. Sir? Yes, I want a place where to spent my Vacations with no interferences and lots of peace.- Daron said. 71 Of course, Sir. Follow me.- The Assistant said; Daron realize that it was not a Natural man, but a machine. They arrive to a wide hall, where dozens of Assistants were busy assisting clients.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Daron was shown rooms and suites; the Assistant waits until he decided where he want to be located- an economic room with a view to the rest of the City was selected- the view to the shore was certainly of higher price. Daron said: I have my luggage at the Hotel Legacy. Not a problem, Sir. Sign here.- And Assistant said, so he pressed a black circle on the attendance desk- with his finger print the Administration could carry those valises without any problem. He was ushered to his new abiding place. It was wide and has two rooms- one of them his bedroom- lots of mirrors and flower pots; a nice bathroom and by the windows he could see three buildings and a glimpse of the sky. I like it, its nice. Did we have Room Service around here?- He asked. Yes, of course, Sir. The Room service is practically to everything you could need, included female company.- The Attendant informed. Female company for tonight- yes.- He said. Of course, Sir. Blonde or black hair, fair skinned or dark color? All of the room 72 Service requisitions have a five per cent of discount, and its deemed as extras. Fine.- Daron said, knowing this was to be a nice Vacation. Female Assistance all services included five hundred Credits; and the lapse its four hours- period you could extend by paying again the same quantity for the same time.- The Hotel Assistant informed him. I guess its right.:Totally antiseptic, no problem of disease. Of course, as it must to be. The tip? Oh, five Credits could be enough? The minimum is 20 Credits, Sir. But you could pay it at the end of your stay. Yes, lets do it like that. I had no change with me right away.- Daron said. Hope youll be satisfied at the end of your stay, Sir. The red button on the wall is for questions. The green one is to ordain whatever you like or need. Understood. Have a nice day, Sir.- The Attendant said, leaving the room. Yes! A good vacation this is going to be.- Daron said to himself. He went to the Holographic set and called for Raneton. Room 200, please.- He said on the phone. After a moment, the receiver said: Not present at the moment, Sir. All right. Five Credits for this service, Sir. Have a good day._ The receiver said. Then, Daron realize the Hotel was not expensive but if he lay on the extras, the final amount will be huge. 73 Daron went to the steam baths, and then to see a play. Afraid to be charged with sidereal prices he gets dinner at a Restaurant- people were also dancing there- strange dances that makes him laugh. At the street again, he saw side-arms for sell without any pre requisite. The only requisite was the enough money. He bought some MASER pistols and carried it on a satchel to his room. Raneton was waiting for him at the corridor. Captain! I recently knew you were here. Yes, lets go inside to talk.- Daron said, opening the door.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer This Hotel is good, Captain! Nice girls and a wide variety of liquors. Yes, well, I am here in Vacations; I assume we are going back to the Freighter in five days more, round trip to Domicilium.- Daron said. All right, Captain! I will be here in five days more- no problem- I like this city, but I feel more comfortable aboard the Freighter.- Raneton said. 74 We all are. Perhaps you could give me a hand knowing the marvels of this city. By all means, Captain! I am having a good time here- Ill be here at twenty one hours! No need to rush earlier- the fine people never walks out of their dens before midnight!- Raneton said, smiling. A night to remember. Well, here we are seeing more people in a minute than in one year aboard the Freighter. Sometimes its better to live with few people.- Raneton said. How much money do you still have? Not much, Captain! But I dont care about that! Now you are here, my future is safe!- Raneton said, laughing- he was meaning he could borrow money from his chief Daron ask for two scotch they drink and Raneton said: I know you are the kind of man who likes music- here in this city there are several Concerts going on- just look advertisements on your Holographic set, and Im sure that youll enjoy them. Daron looks at his wristwatch- 20.00 hours already- and said: Soon itll be 21.00 oclock. Ill prepare myself with a shower. Me too, Captain. See you later.- Raneton said, departing to his room. Daron was sure it will be a hard night for his nerves- Raneton was a heavy drinker. But he gets a surprise- at 21 hours; Raneton appears with a lady- tall and beautiful, with a yellow dress showing her bodys curves and flat belly. Hello, Im Shera. She said, kissing his cheek- a white symphony with a nice smell of perfume. Nice to meet you, lady.- Daron said, blushing at her perfect breasts. Isnt her a nice looking thing, Captain? And there are more from where I found her.- He said in an excited voice. Yes, certainly shes very attractive.- Daron said, coughing in front of that attraction the woman manages to irradiate so well. Captain, are you ready to begin our trek?- Raneton asked. Yes, of course! Now more than ever!- He said, and leaving his apartment, they walked to the Flier platform, where they get inside on one of that crafts. Raneton said: To the Dockal. Yes, Sir. Twenty three Credits.- The Driver said from his seat. It wasnt a natural person, and he resembles a man on his twenties. The trip was too short for Daron, who was sensing the left leg of the woman pressed against his own leg, passing unto him rivers of hot energy. She gives a sudden stare at him, with stark desire on her pupils. At their landing, Daron was very excited and ready for the action! 76 They descended from the upper platform of a big building, to walk, then, to an elevator- Raneton said: Now this is a Night Club, Captain! You dont need to

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer drink much, but if you want to have a girl on your arms, you get to ask for a drink.! If you dont drink, the lady will drink for you!- Shera laughed. The place was in half light; wide and long, full of small tables. There was also a dais where some couples were dancing, under a blue light that makes them like dancing underwater. A pair of females approaches their table; one of them blonde and the other has black hair; the black haired said: Good evening, gentlemen! We are here to lighten the bachelors life! Whom of us do you prefer? You- Daron said, pointing to the blonde one, so the other walked away. May I seat?- She said, with musical intonation. Of course, seat!- Daron said, approaching a chair for that woman, who was wearing a yellow blouse and white tight pants. His hear was long to the waisther eyes were green. They drink- Daron softened his liquor with a beverage, while the new person in his group was saying: I wonder if you like to dance! Yes, of course. Let us go!- Daron said, knowing it was a nice way to see her moving that precious body also Raneton and Shera were walking towards the dais. Soon they were dancing, a strange dance Daren was well aware he doesnt understand, but at that place, knowing not to dance has not much importance. 77 The dancing process was intense, not only twisting and shaking, but also whirling; in some moments they must embrace each other; then it was that the women could communicate their interest by the man, or not. And the woman Tawa was indeed interested in this quiet man, who was evidently the Chief or superior in rank or economic position of the other male. Tawa also understood which role was portraying Miss Shera- a woman like her, possibly accompanying the male for his money. At the second dance, Tawa let him kiss her, and at the third dance she kissed the guy with such a passion, that she knew that the quiet man was burning in desire. To make that sensation grew stronger, she talks to him with smiles and profound stares. Three hours later, Raneton was downright drunk and Shera became a bored woman; Daren was in flames and Tawa a little dizzy, product of so many soft drinks. They went back to the Twin Towers Hotel; Tawa understood that this men were tourists but with a certain degree of restriction in their expenses; not millionaires nor retired men expending their money. At Raneton s apartment, he was suddenly half recuperated, and said: Captain, Im sorry! I am spoiling your first night in this city! Dont worry, man! I am enjoying this evening with the presence of this enchanting young woman.- Daren said, taking Tawas left hand. Good to hear that, Captain! Please 78 go to your own room! Im sure youll find her more agreeable in there!- Raneton said, assuring him a way to be alone with that superb female. Daron accepted the insinuation right away; Tawa was sure of what was going to happen at his apartment, and was trying to extract a good chunk of money from that occasion; thats why he said to him, at the elevator: Oh, Daron, I know you

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer are in Vacations and trying to have a good time but I am so worried about my sick grandmother! Whats wrong with your grandmother, honey?- He asked, taking her by the slim waist. Shes very ill!- She said. Oh! And you visit her- on her house or at some Hospital? At her own house, of course! We dont have enough money to pay for her health at some Clinic! If I could have three thousand Credits! Thats what they ask for some exams she must have!- Tawa said, looking very sad; Daron was disappointed of her- instead of romance and also sex, she was giving him trouble plus the imminent threat of a loan- a huge amount just to solve her problem with the supposed sick grandmother! Daron knew he must offer her his help, or else the sexual moment was not going to happen with the woman He handled her three thousand Credits the moment they arrive to his apartment- she puts the bills on her purse, and embracing her tightly 79 She said: Now Im relieved indeed! Now I am happy! Oh, my savior!- And kissed him hard; Daron takes her in his trembling hands and with waving legs he transported that statue of flesh to his bed. They loved each other for two hours, and then they slept- only that Daron set his wristwatch to alert him one hour later- and get asleep. One hour later, he was awakened- the soft purr of the lady told him she was asleep- he walked to the purse, and takes his gift of 3.000 Credits out of it. Then, he closes the furniture where he has his bought and went out to the corridor; an Attendant suddenly appears, walking by the corridor. Daron stops him, saying: I have a problem, man. Tell me, Sir. We can solve every trouble that happens inside this building.The man was a Synthetic person, and he was already radioing to the Central, just in case the matter requires more Assistants to be solved. Its a lady. Shes sleeping at my room- but she is not very known to me. I have valuables in there- perhaps somebody should tell her to leave my premises.Daron asked. The Assistant receives instantly information of Darons behavior while inside the Hotel- he was taped and videoed several times- he was being filmed at his coming with those superb females. When a conclusion was achieved, the Assistant said: I guess you meet this lady tonight, invites her to have a drink, and slept with her. Now you 80 Are afraid she could rob you? Exactly! And you want us to take her away? Exactly that! Ill be somewhere else, waiting for you to do it.- Daron said. No can do it, Sir. Why not? Because you brought her by your own free will! But see what we could do: An Assistant will be at the dormitory- hell make some noises- then shell wake up. When that happens, the Assistant will tell her what exactly is he doing there: seeing she dont take something that does not belong to her- the lady will be so upset, that certainly and most probably, shell leave the place.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Do you think so?- Daron was finding it as too easy- bearing in mind the not minor detail that Tawa was going to be missing the 3.000 Credits! And how much this is going to cost me?- Daron asked, so sure he was that the management of the hotel was not giving services just for free. Five hundred Credits, Sir. You can pay Cash now or later at your departure from the Hotel.- The Assistant said. Forget it! Leave the woman be! I prefer to get out and wait for the morning! Im sure shell walk out of this Hotel as soon she finds out I was up and away!Daron said. As you wish, Sir. But remember your valuables- do not complain if the lady takes them away!- The Assistant said. All right! Ill take my chances!- Daron said, risking the MASER pistols in the process. 81 Darin wished her but at the same time, he was not willing to pay hundred of Credits for her favors; also, he was not going to face the gal and said: Yes, I give you the 3.000 Credits, just to obtain your love, and now that I had obtained it, I withdraw the gift! That wasnt an explanation a woman of her kind will peacefully accept. She also could say that he robs her money! He went to a small Hotel at the other side of town, facing the plains that stretched North West. It was a twenty rooms Hotel, now owned by a widower and aided by a maid an his own son. Lately he discovered that the maid was a model AB Synthetic e-woman, resembling a sixty years old dame. The rooms were also two, with a wide bath with bathtub included- a luxury was being there, on the warm water. The building was set among private homes in a side- street, with almost no traffic. Holographic set was only one, communal, on the reception hall, where some armchairs were disposed to let passengers waits their visits- if any. Daron seats there, after seeing the rooms he rented- the widower was at a desk, looking bored. A tranquil place is that you have here, Sir.- Daron said, from his seat. Yeah! Plenty of good neighbors around here! I have this Hotel eight years since, and Im not getting any richer, but I earn some money enough to live. My son is finishing his studies, and perhaps when he leaves home to work, Ill be hiring someone else to replace his work. A pity, but the young man gets to earn his own money that I expect will be much more than I could pay him.- The widower was a man in his sixties, with scant hair and using spectacles. 82 :Yes, if he has brains, he must to take profit of it. Im a space sailor, in Vacations.- Daron gives his own opinion. Well, you must have seen lots of wonders, up there, isnt it? But you see, my son is going to be a doctor! He always is speaking about brains. He tole me that theres a new way of thinking that takes for granted that the mind is inseparable from the human body. The evidence is our mental activities is centered on the brain, you know, the old connectionist theories or neural networks models, or PDP.- The widower said. You seem to know a lot about it!- Daron said. Do you believe it so? Well, I told myself, Sam, you get to learn about it, or you will not understand a word of what your son is talking about! So I begin taking notes from the Holographic set- of course my knowledge is shallow.- Sam said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Your accomplishments I admire. My name is Daron; perhaps the positron brain of a mechanical man is a copy of our own brains.- Daron said. Certainly better, Sir! We had flaws and not every human reach the point of to be a person.- Sam said. Of course you are right.- Daron said, smiling- he had met animals in two feet often times. 83 Mr. Daron: The connectionist theory claims that our mental processes can be explained by the multiple interconnections betweens the neurons, or never cells, in the brain. Neuronal networks models, interconnected units working together to form networks analogous, to those in processes describe them as taking place serially one after another. We can focus one thing at a time, so we had to do our thinking serially.- Sam said. Very interesting. I wonder what we really are.- Daron said. Beings of short lives, what else? There are tycoons over there that replicates their brain patterns into a Synthetic being, in order to live indefinitely. Hogwash! It has no sense at all.- Sam said. Guess so.- Daron said, appreciating the silence of the place. The consciousness has no particular location- the various parts work together to produce our conscious experiences. Theres no some mysterious entity in it, as some guys swear it is- I mean, some people faced the wall, and believe they can pass through leaving the body behind.- Sam coughed. His son approaches and said: Dont speak too much, dad! You know it hurts your vocal cords! And, nice to meet our new guest.- And he shakes hands with Daron- My name is Elfis. I see you had no luggage or do you have it? If you want, I can go wherever you say to fetch it here. Well, I was at the Twin Towers Hotel, but I invited a damsel to pass the night there, and she ask me some money to help her grandmother.- Daron said, but Sam laughed and said: The old tale of a sick relative! 84 Yes, I give her the money, and had a nice slept with her.- Daron confided. Slept?- The son growled, incredulously. And some action too. In the morning, I withdraw the money I give her and escape from those rooms I was renting.- Daron said. It was a lie for a lie! She lie to obtain money, you pretend to give her money to obtain you know what! Youre even!- Elfis said, chuckling. Do you know what she can do to you?- The widower asked him. Beat me? Worst! She can claim that you robbed her! So you better dont appear around the place anymore! And my son could go there to fetch the valises- if any. And pay the bill. Or else, they are going to charge you for the room indefinitely!Sam said. Here I have a machine to take your fingerprint! And give me some money dont think in mistrusting us! We are having our honesty as our biggest heritage.- Elfis said, and Daron did as told. Two hours later, Elfis arrived back from the Twin Towers Hotel- he has the valises and a message. Hey, buddy, real mess at that place! - Elfis said. What happened?- Daron asked him.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer That lady! A real candy! But enraged! She is telling that you robbed her purse!Elfis said. No way! ~- Daron growled. Yeap! I ask for the valises! As you had your pertinences on drawers, an Assistant takes your stuff into the valises- one by one! Look this 85 Scratches!- And Elfis show some scars on his neck and the palms of his hands. Oh, what terrible thing happened?- Daron felt sorry for the young man. Wait! And she also kicks my legs!- And Elfis was showing his legs, so Daron could see the red and blue bruises But I take all your stuff out and without losing a pin! Its all in here.- He said, showing the valises. Then he produces a receipt from that Hotel, stating that Mr. Daron Hinauer had paid the bill in full. I will repay your efforts for this epic enterprise! And I apologize myself for not going in person. Oh, its part of my job! Ad its not the first time, either! Ill leave the valises at your place, Sir.- Elfis said, walking out of the reception hall. Daron went out to lunch; at the Flier taxi, he said; Tame me to a good restaurant near the sea! So the driver carried him to the Xbongo Restaurant, where he get lunch and a bottle of wine- he asked for another to carry back to the Hotel, where he was going to deliver it to the Elfis, as a token of gratefulness. Before that, he calls on Raneton using a holographic set, at the same Restaurant. Captain! Where are you? Dont tell me you are at the spaceship!- Raneton said. No, Im at another Hotel.- Daron replied. 86 What for, Captain? Here we were close one another! And do you know what happens with your lady of last night?- Raneton asked him. Yes, Im away while she was sleeping.- He said. Worst thing you could have donned! Now she is saying you are a thief! The Police have your name- they ask the Administration for it!- Raneton informed. And what about it? I stole her nothing!- Daron said. 3.000 Credits from her purse! She is lying, of course! Those gals are always empty pocket and on the search for gullible guys.- Raneton said. I am at another Hotel. No way can they track me.- Daron said. Oh, yeah? You have your name at the Space Port Administration! They can catch on you while arriving or departing on the Gula!- Raneton said. Hogwash! Nothing is going to happen!- Daron said, showing a confidence that tranquilized the space sailor. Chief: I will move to where you are now. Dont tell me the address, not yet. This line could be tampered with.- Raneton said. Why tampered? You are no suspected and certainly you are not related!Daron said. Call on the spaceship and leave your address there- I will call them later, and so Ill know where you are.- Raneton said. As you wish! Hows your woman?- Daron asked. Amused because of you!- Raneton said, laughing and he hangs up.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer 87 Daron went back to the Hibm Hotel, and gives the bottle of wine for Felvisbeing absent at the time. Thanks; Ill delivered it to him. Are you more calm, now?- Sam asked. Yes, I talked with a man who works at the spaceship, Mr. Raneton- hes coming this way. To rent? Yes- is there not enough rooms? There are three other rooms- empty apartments, Mr. Daron. No problem. But I will detest knowing your crew member is a troublemaker. No, he is just love to drink some more of the count.- Daron smiled. Well, a drunkard could behave or could not now how to behave- you see, its everything on the brain. Hormones control the brain. And avid reduction of cholesterol or other fatty materials in the blood may raise the toll of violent death including murder.- Sam said. No way! This man is a very peaceful guy.- Daron said. Well, hope so. We had the I chromosome, non existent in women- with a few genes- well confide hes more reasonable than your one night acquaintance.Sam said. I had been working with him on a closed circuit for months, and never a big fight.- Daron said. Suddenly, Raneton appeared carrying a bag and after him, a pair of Electronic Creatures from the Freighter. Invasion!- Raneton said, smiling. 88 Hello, man! I see that you brought two Electronic Creatures!- Daron said. The engineer chief sent them! He said that you could be in trouble, so this guys could take you out of it!- Raneton said. Welcome to the Hibm Hotel! Are you going to take a room?- Sam asked him. Yes, of course, pops! And as Sam stares to the Electronic Creatures, he adds: Those are for our Captains personal protection!Daron said: No need to worry about them, Sam! These are mechanical men, who will not move if not told. Sam said: I always heard of this kind of Synthetic Persons, but never seen one at close range. They are different than the AB, who tricks the eye and sometimes for many days. Yes, this has nothing to do with the technology used on AB synthetic persons. The factory Electronic Circuits has not the motto More human than human, but simply makes them to be of help. They look sturdiest.- Sam said, touching the metallic chest of one of them, and then guided Raneton down the corridors to his new quarters- he finds it acceptable- and returns to the hall, saying Show me your room, Captain! Daron went with him to his two room apartment, and closing the door he asked: Where do you left your female companion? 89 She went to her parents home at Oredloro- you see, the lady believes we could live together!- Raneton confided. Here? Are you leaving the Freighter? And what about your life as a space sailor?

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Of course not, Captain! You only need to authorize me to have Shera on board.- Raneton said, and Daron looked at him in astonishment, and then replied: Guess you are taking too much sun at midday! A woman on board will only provoke problems! At the pod? Well, not at the pod! Let me think about this, and now, lets go out! Enough of this four walls! - Daron said, walking out of the Hibm hotel. They went to a Restaurant, where they talked about the city and its possibilities. This city is full of life! The people could buy and sell without restrictions! Everyone could open a shop; nobody is going to ask for papers and permissions for it! Thats why everybody is entitled to earn his living being a merchant, if they like. The Administration gets money from the mines and exports. Also, the country has lots of mines- selling the product they get enough money to survive as a community.- Daron said, remembering what he learnt at the Holographic set. Yes, and women are beautiful! No matter how 90 young or old, its the same! And liquor is cheap!- Raneton said. Lets see some women, Captain! We must catch up with our dose! So many times without sex in space makes us some kind of hysterical monks! So they went- at places where they could dance and drink, and then enjoy beautiful natural women- being the national spirit against the use of mechanical sex. Daron uses the rest of his Vacation going everywhere Raneton was prone to go, searching for women and liquor. His last day was finally spent, and asking for a Flier taxi, they return to the Freighter in orbit, and were welcomed thus: Captain Daron and crewmember Raneton! The Engineer wants you both at the main deck! Daron went there, finding the Engineer waiting and saying: Hello, captain! Good to see you back! Are we returning to Domicilium now? Yes, but I want to know if we have some cargo to carry for that planetary system?- Daron asked him. Yes, captain! Several new engines and eight passengers. Passengers? - Daron asked, not really happy with that news. He saw passengers as a too risky responsibility. :Yes, tourists! I already freeze them.- Chief Engineer said. 91 Daron gives the order of departure, and the space freighter received the authorization and course, leaves the orbit around the planet Knapp and ventures out of the civilization. The Gula traversed the orbits of the Knappian planets until, at the outside of that planetary system, the Captain gives the order: To the cryogenic pods all natural crewmen! Our Electronic Creatures will have the control from now on! Chief engineer Tuger approaches him, saying; Sir! Could be not better to wait until we traverse the Branas? Dont worry about it! I pretend to be awake by when we give the traversing.Daron said. Not to happy with that answer, Tuger walked to a pod, where soon enough he was put to sleep by an EC. How much for a secure traversing?- Daron asked to EC #50.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Eight days, Sir. Minimum distance to the best accurate positions.- EC #50 said. Daron was sure the ECs would be capable of to bring them back home, so he was tempted to be cryiogenized, but no, he keeps on with his self appointed job, and in those eight days he revised not only the nacelles and much many hours looking at the stars and wondering its meaning. Eventually and if the humanoids keeps on with the colonization of space, all the planets will be infested with his race, drilling mountains, polluting the environ and melting the ice. 92 That was, of course, and Daron also realized, to see things in a pessimistic way. The optimistic way was to see millions of spaceships carrying goods and passengers everywhere, gleaming cities near brilliant shores, and life being a nice thing to enjoy. And suddenly he envisioned himself among the general scheme of things, being a minuscule carrier of goods among one tiny speck of light to the other. The infinitude of time and space compared with him was appalling. He finally sees that the traversing through Branas was donned fine, and the Brana 1 was all around him, with their different star configurations. Fifty two days to the arrival, Sir. Do you want us to command the spaceship?EC 50 asked. Yes, of course. 52 days alone is good but also boring.- Daron said, and walking to the chamber of pods, he was aided by EC 45 to being his freezing period. The last he saw was the transpiring crystal of his chamber. The Gula freighter was advancing at Warp 4, not much for a modern freighter, but nice enough for an old model like the Gula. Their space sailors worked day and night preventing failures and answering to the scant messages with other spaceships mainly only for the binnacle record. When nearing Domicilium Planetary System, the captain and his crew were de-cryiogenized . 93 The freighter was approaching Aquarii 31 B b, The Captain already awoke and his natural crew on their seats- the traffic was not dense. Approaching orbit, Captain.- Raneton said, at the controls. Velocity on schedule.- Arkilo said, at the Engines control panel. Nice approaching.- Foren said, seated at the communicating console. Daron smiled. This people was enthusiast and alive. He must wait to see if they were braver. When on the signaled orbit, they begin calling the owners of the cargo. Soon several spaceships approaches, carrying on their hulls the emblem of their factories- the warp engines discharged, and the eight passengers taking private Fliers to the Surface- too hurried to thank everyone. Daron saw the last of those crafts going away and into the clouds- to the left, the big angry brownish orb of Aquarii 31b capturing the satellite with its net of magnetic field. A fiery orb.- Raneton said from his seat, referring to the central star. Yes, an orange sun. Big and impressive.- Daron acknowledged. The orbit makes them cross continents and seas, oceans; day and night endures only scant hours. We can see the mayor cities bright as diamonds! Well leave the freighter in orbit- the Electronic Creatures will take care of it while we descend. Hurrah! Fresh paid and willing!- Arkilo said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Yes. Your wages are already on your Bank accounts.- Daron said, standing from his seat. What city, Sir?Domicilium- my preferred. Lots of action, down there!- Daron said, guiding them to a Flier; in it they descended, and landed on a platform situated on a tall building. There must to be a Hotel in this building, for sure.- Daron said, and soon they find out there was one- the Constellation 3 stars Hotel. Expensive but affordable. Lets take a long shower, and Ill meet you in the lobby.- Daron said, not mentioning that they look queer with alien clothes- a thing easily remediable at a Clothes store. The bath was nice and good- hot water, plenty of soap that come from the same shower at times- shampoo by the same method, and then the hot air to get dry. The Hotel provides with towels and robes. Daron walked barefooted to the place he left his clothes, and they were smelly- he takes the phone and calls for room service. I need sport clothes.- He said. Very well, Sir. Please stand over the black spot in front of the Holographic set. That is. A meter and seventy two centimeters. Size 50. Very well, Sir. Underwear clothes, shirt and pants, vest and shoes, stockings to match. 38 Credits in all, Sir. In five minutes youll receive the items at your door, Sir.- The voice said 95 Ah, what color do you have? Daron asked. Color, Sir? The clothes are in any color you prefer- just turn the buttons.- The vendor said, disconnecting the call. Nice.- Daron smiled- this new feature was a good invention. They reunited at the lobby- only Raneton has asked for new clothes- the others said: Oh, we are the dumb! But I guess we could ask for clothes outside this Hotel? Of course! Lets go to see the city.- Daron said, leading the way. It was autumn and the temperature was almost cold. Women use long dresses and overcoats. The same with men. At the streets there were moving a-ways, so there were no vehicles except the Fliers; those landed on platforms. They enter a Bar, half empty except a couple of persons. The bartender said: Tourists!- and someone chuckled seated at a table. Yeah, tourists, but I tell you I work in a space freighter and Im not a lazy man!Arkilo growled. A whisky!- Daron asked. The Bartender pours some liquor on four glasses without asking. We want some action. What could you suggest?- Daron asked to the man. If you walk down the street, youll stumble on a lot of places where you could get the action, Sir. I recommend you to wait for the night time. It rests only one hour and forty five minutes more.- The Bartender said. Why waiting?- Raneton asked him Because the ladies are sleeping now.- the Bartender said, while somebody laughed . 96

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer You can get entertainment at a table. I could lend you cards.- The bartender said, putting a pack of new cards on the desk. Right, lets go playing.- Daron said, walking to a vacant table with the cards and his glass. They played for bits and ends. The atmosphere was quiet and with a scent of liquor. The bartender sometimes approaches the tables and chuckled looking at the cards- the men asked for more drinks ,until the bartender said: You better be going, guys. They left the place, after paying- the Bartender gives them the cards as a gift. They went out still optimistic, and mildly drunk- at the first entertaining place with women and music they enter, finding nice beautiful natural women ready to dance and be merry. Daron ends sleeping at a room while his crew keeps on dancing and drinking. He awoke at 04. hour half naked and alone on a disheveled bed. He put his shoes and jacket and went out to see for the crew- it was not eady to find as the doors on the corridors were all shut. He walked out to the street, not attending the women who invite him to lay with them. Soon it was seven oclock- morning again. He returns to that tavern, and it was opened. Another bartender was there, but he didnt care who he was, because he was searching for a place where to be alone and not molested, to nurse his headache. A whisky.- He asked. Early drinker?- The bartender asked him, pouring a thumb of liquor on a glass. :Just out of bed.- Daron said. Must have been a stormy night.- The bartender said, blinking an eye. More or less so.- Daron said, going to a table; he seats and dozed over his glass, waiting for the crew. And he was not mistaken in his assumptions- one hour and a half later, the three crewmen appears there, with wrinkled clothed and red eyed as he was. Captain! We thought you deserted us!- Raneton said. I was sure you were here!- Arkilo said, thumping on a chair. Great! What are we going to do now?- Foren asked, but it was not need to reply, as he puts his head on the table and gets asleep. In that instant a big robot enters the bar, roughly like a barrel with arms and legs attached. The head was a meter high, translucent receptacle with the resemblance of a face. Where is Sam?- A voice appears from somewhere on that chest. It was a bass sound with shrieking ending. Nothing here, Tobor.- The barman said, hiding behind the counter. No Sam?- The voice was higher in pitch- Daron said: Who could had assembled this monstrosity? 98 Tobor turns to them, asking: Who said that? Daron begin to scurry to the bathroom. Tobor approaches the table, takes it in its pincers and cut it in two, saying: No Sam, no monstrosity! Raneton and the rest of the clients run to the bathroom, their drunkenness gown with the scare. They saw Daron escaping out by a window- they followed him, while they heard how Tobor was wrecking the Tavern. At the alley, they looked at each others and laughed. That was close!- Daron panted.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer But what was that robot? A joke or the dream of a drug addict?- Arkilo wondered. I cannot believe it.- Foren said, stiffing out. What do you not believe? It was a metallic monstrosity!- Raneton laughed, but then he saw Foren signaling to the extreme of that alley, and saw that dark big barrel-like robot walking towards them! Run!- He said, beginning to run: the rest followed him- but there was a big wall at the end of that side of the alley. We are finished!- Arkilo yelped. The robot was fifty meters away- and running awkwardly. Daron wished to be a fly, to escape by over the wall, but he wasnt. Suddenly, a door opened from one of the warehouses, and a black tall figure appears brandishing a cane with a lamp on the extreme. He pointed it to the robot- and it stops in mid stride as a puppet when the cords are lowered, and lie still, with a final clanking sound. Arkilo was on the ground mumbling prayers to his ancestors- Foren kicked him with his shoes, saying: Stop you fool! No time to get having reunion with your grandparents! The robot is now paralyzed! 99 CHAPTER # 4. TOBOR THE GREAT AND DOCTOR TAYLOR KOLMER. The black garment said: Pardon by the accident, gentlemen! I was out of home and I inadvertently left my Electronic Servant plugged in! But now hes perfectly controlled- thank to this!- And he shows the cane on high. And what is that? A magic wand?- Arkilo said, now he was recovered from scare. Of course not! But, gentlemen, I owed you many apologies for this! Especially that you are sounding foreigners to me.- The man said. Yes, the apologies could be a good idea, but throw in some compensation!Raneton said, doing the sign of money with his fingers, but loosing the gesture as it was dark. Of course. I will invite you to my laboratory. Sorry, my house is my place to work. Oh! And my name is Doctor Taylor Kolmer, and yours? But, alas! Lets get inside, first!- The doctor said, pointing to the open gate. The building has five stories of pure concrete with small round windows. Once inside, they follow him by a large hall, full of dark objects, some of them covered with tarpaulins. There was aw door at a side opening to a corridor- the doctor invites them to enter one dusty room with a big wood table and some chairs. Please, seat down, while I come back!- Doctor Taylor Kolmer said, departing. His footsteps diminished in sound and then Daron said: This doctor seems to do things his way. We are going to ask him for an economical compensation, and out we go. Yeah! I dont like this place. It gives me the creeps!- Arkilo said. A rat runs down the corridor carrying something on his mouth. Foren said; I could swear it was a finger what that rat was carryi8ng away.- The others looked at him in disbelieve. Some stomps were heard, and then silence, followed by a banging of the Gate. Doctor Kolmer hurriedly appears in front of them, saying: Well, gentlemen, I already get my robot inside. And it is not dangerous?

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Not now, at least! I disconnect it! As you see, its already dark outside.- Doctor Kolmer said, seating in front of them. And which kind of a brain you inserted there, Doctor?- Foren asked. A human brain!- Doctor Kolmer replied they put a worried communal look, so he laughed and said: Oh, dont you get scared! There are raised by me on a special tank! What? Do you believe I use somebody elses brain?- Doctor Kolmer asked them. They could not respond, except Daron, who knew something about it. He said: You made brand new cerebrums? And teach them somehow? Using acids? Doctor Kolmer laughed with a rather peculiar kind of laughter and then said: Certainly not battery of acid! Why do you mention acid? No, I just 101 Let them see some programs on a holographic set for a whole year! When that time is over, they resemble a normal Holographic set user!- And that laughter again was produced by the innards of his very wrinkled throat Daron just cannot fathom if the professor T. Kolmer was jocking or not, btu certainly, his laugh was out of place. Foren said: Give us the compensation, doctor, so you can return to your interesting experiments. Kolmer looked at him with cunning, brilliant eyes, and said: But you must to wait! I invite you, no? Im waiting too! Delicious food from the street! Pizzas for everyone?- Foren tries to fathom. Not pizza! I hate Italian food! Disgusting!- Doctor Kolmer said, wrinkling his rather short nose And then what?- Daron asked him. Goulash! Youll like it!- He said, smiling- and said: Well, lets know each other! I am doctor Kolmer, and I have seventy two years old! Quite young to be an inventor! I am sure of it! I have the robot as one of my best inventions.- Doctor Kolmer said, and Foren laughed. Yes! You laugh? Come with me! Ill show you my other inventions!- He said, standing up, but the late shrill bell buzzer resounds, and he went there to attend. This guy is cracked! Lets go before its too late!- Foren said, touching his head meaningfully. 102 Several Electronic Creatures appeared, using blue uniforms with a logo on their backs. Quick receptions- it reads. They put a white/yellow mantelpiece on the table, dishes, silverware, bottles of wine, and three big pans with meat exhaling odoriferous fumes. Salads and other food. For you, gentlemen! Hope you enjoy it.- Doctor Kolmer said, seating at the head of the table; Foren smiled and said: I will join the party! No need to be suspicious about this meat!- And laughed. But do you really make Cyborg?- Daron asked him. :Of course! I had sold ghouls! Well, strong men, in the past. A pity that some of my most reliable clients ends up in jail! People just dont know technology didnt make good partners!Why, they run amok? My creations dont run amok! They used to do illegal things! And they pay the price! You cannot send my creations to rob and maim bad debtors without a good motive! They learn as they go, so to speak! Doctor Kolmer said, finishing his piece of meat. The whine was superb, and soon it was finished; the

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer attendants waits for all to finish and then takes everything back to their wagon flier and went away. I hope you are satisfied, gentlemen! As tourists, I hope you will talk well of our hospitality!- Doctor Kolmer said, standing up from his seat. 103 Daron said: We are very thankful, Professor Taylor Kolmer! And we are curious about your other inventions. Could we see them? Doctor Kolmer rubbed his chin and then said: Well, I usually preserve my secrets for myself, but as you are tourists and soon youll be away, I see no trouble showing you some of my pet inventions! They looked each other and smiled- the rude creation of Tobor was enough indication the doctor was well behind present technology- or so they think. From that dinning room they walked to the hall where Tobor was standing. The light was dim, so he looks bigger and more sinister. This is where I put all my previous inventions! He can walk and also talk; he could carry tons of weight and can walk a thousand kilometers long. He knows he is alive! A notion not every robot could boast.- Doctor Kolmer said. Neither Daron nor the rest of them wished to contradict their host, who had provided them with a good meal and some wine. Doctor Kolmer shows them three halls where he had different inventions in the process of being improved. No organic matter was seen and the visitors were more relaxed in his strange company. 104 Asked, he explained: As you see here, this is a radio like the super radio you could purchase everywhere0 the difference is that you could hear radio emissions given up until a hundred years ago- it gets those transmissions using a Transporter. 105 Wonderful! Daron said, looking at the light radio set, not bigger than a human hand. Arkilo looks unto a tube, but doctor Kolmer takes it and pressing a button, he handled it down to him, saying: Now you can use it. Arkilo looked around using it, and said: Well, I guess its only to see through itand nothing else. Thats what you are thinking? But if you turn the dial the instrument has on top, you will see from this instant to a remote past!- Doctor Kolmer teaches him. Doing as told, Arkilo was able to see from the present to the past- at that same spot, a younger Kolmer crossed the field of view. Turning the dial, Arkilo could see the fields, then trees and blue or dark skies- animals never envisioned could be seen also. Arkilo retired the eyepiece from his face, looking in awe to that almost magical tube, and saying: But this is a marvel, doctor! Incredible artifact! More than artifact! An instrument that could solve any police mystery, any murder! Bribes! Pity I hadnt worked out the sound- lost in translation, as they say in similar cases. Who knows? Perhaps any morning I could wake up with the necessary solution! It had happened in some other inventions!- Doctor Kolmer said. 106 Daron climbs in a strange motorcycle as the wheels were attached by bars to the seat, which had a cylinder underneath.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer A nice model!- Daron said, trying the handlebar that seems to be made of crystal, but sounds like metal. Doctor Kolmer said: Originally it was designed as a Flier motorcycle, but it has the tendency of overturn while in flight. I guess it could serves with another configuration- perhaps an ovoid. The driver or pilot could, then, start upside down, and while in flight- and descending- he will be in the correct position. Awkward.- Daron said. Could be used for individuals not willing to use bigger vehicles.- Kolmer remarked. The other inventions remained unknown, as the Doctor receives a call and then said: Gentlemen, you will had to forgive me for this, but other important matter requires my presence now. All right, Sir! We understood!- We also are thankful of you because of your generosity.- Daron said, and the Doctor guides them out of his workhouse and when at the street again, Daron said to his men: Now we will get back to our Freighter. Enough of this city! And hailing a Flier taxi they were brought to the Spatial Airport, in order to ascend to the orbit in a space shuttle. 107 It was there, at the shopping mall of the Space Port that everyone bought souvenirs and others before the trip. I wonder if we could get enough cargo for our next flight!- Daron said. Aurean planet! Guess well be having cargo, Sir. Plenty of people moving to there.- - Arkilo said. A man next to them was staring, and so he finally said: Wait! Have you a spaceship to hire? Daron looked at him, seeing a tall and thin man with a dark suit. Yes, we have a spaceship to hire. But its a freighter.Oh! But possibly you could carry some passengers?- The man asked. Yes, as the passengers usually are dormant while traveling.- Raneton explained. Dormant- meaning cryogenic?- The man asked. Yes, and where do you want to travel?- Daron asked, but the man puts a finger in front of his mouth, saying: Not in here! Come!- And they went to a Bar; there, the man seats at a table, saying: Ask whatever you want to drink, because Im paying! :Thanks.- Daron said, calling for a whisky on the rocks. My name is Frink Roller, from Domicilium. I see you are from Knapp, by your accent?- He asked, looking suspicious. We are from here, man! Im the captain of a small freighter, and this is my crew.- Daron presents himself and his retinue. 108 CHAPTER # 5. AT DOMICILIUM BRANA 1- AQUARII 31B MR FRIN ROLLER, POLITICIAN (DOMICILIUM). All right, Ill tell you what: my companions and I are willing to travel to Aurean planet, without many regulations. In fact, it would be advisable to travel without giving notice of us on board. Daron smiled and said: What are you spies?

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer No: politicians! We came here to work, and our job is finished already.- Mr. Frink Roller said. All right, Sir. The cost is 3.000 Credits by each one you want to carry! Meals until the departure from orbit; you will be awake before our arrival to Aurean planet. Is that O.K. with you?- Daron asked, finishing his drink. Yes, its fine as long as no papers are asked.- Mr. Roller said. I will be traveling to my ship right away- you will follow us in a Flier Shuttle, of course- you just call the ship when departing.- Daron said, handling him a memory pill with the coordinates where to find the Gula. All right, Captain!- Mr. Roller said. Daron walked with his crew members up to a shuttle and in it to the space freighter, where they arrived forty five minutes later. We have twenty tons of electronic stuff to carry, Captain.- EC #45 said, at the main cabin. Very well! We will get some tourists going to Aurean planetary system- See that the pods are in working order, and also the cabins must be clean as a bell. Of course, I doubt they are going to sleep in them- I will start as soon as they arrive- Daron said to himself. 109 Two hours later, Mr. Roller calls to say he was on his way. Im traveling with some more clients, Captain!All right, Im waiting for them.- Daron said, looking at the long range Radarseveral vehicles were traveling at that time, so anyone of them could be Mr. Rollers shuttle craft Later, the Flier Wagon arrives, and locks unto port 8; the passengers enters by the air-lock, while the cargo was coming on a moving platform- Daron saw some crates and most of all, valises of all sizes. EC #50 said: Seventeen persons, Sir. Carrying them to the mess hall for an interview. All right, Ill be there as soon as the Wagon Flier departs.- Daron said, as he does not trust the crew of some of those vehicles, who could stole the same items they download, if there was nobody looking. For that purpose, he sent Arkilo with a LASER gun at his belt, plus the four EC that were helping with the download. Fifteen minutes later, the Wagon Flier unlocks and departs to the surface. Daron walked to the Mess hall, where he found the newcomers slightly bored. Captain Daron!- Mr. Frink Roller said, saluting him in the best of moods. Welcome to the Gula freighter, sir! And welcome to you all. Now we are assigning you some cabins, until the necessary deep sleep is needed.- Daron said to them- he saw four beautiful women in their youth, and the rest were sixty old men, looking stern. Very well, Captain Daron! Here Ill present you this 110 Gentlemen, Mr. Distineo Crispo, Mr. Beta Fanum, Mr. Esus,Deambulo, Mr. Consaluto, Mr. Circumago, Mr. Caedes Allido, and ladies Tau, Naht, Heiben, Erroten (and eight more). Daron memorizes it while he salutes them with handshakes (to the men) and with kisses on the cheek (to the ladies). The women were really superb and they were staring at him with big beautiful eyes. One of them, Miss Erroten, said: Nice spaceship you have , Captain! But I wonder, being a freighter, how

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer many days are going to pass before we arrive to Aurean B II. And while she spoke, Daron looks on those red and full lips. Lady! We are going to travel at Warp 4. Not much before the six or nine the Liners are making in these days, and I assume they could reach easily! - Daron said. But ladies!- Mr. Frink Roller said; You will be dormant! That month will come and go without you ever noticed it! But my relatives will! I also be delayed.- Miss Erroten said. We will try to shorten our voyage, ladies! There is a way- using the Traversing through Branas! It will mean a couple more days of calculations, but well work in that- for your behalf!- Daron said to her- and the rest. The eye of Mr. Roll gets half closed, while he was thinking there was some trick in those words, and so he waits a moment where they were in private, to ask: But you really could accomplish that, Captain? Certainly! You will see that, when we arrive to Aurean planet, the amount of days will be shortened.- Daron said. Perfect, then! You are a fine captain! But, what are we waiting for to leave? Lets depart! Remember that we arent here.- Mr. Roll said. We are waiting for some authorization documentation only, Mr. Roll. We dont 111 Want to bump with some other vessel, did we?- Daron asked patiently. Of course not.- Mr. Roll said, walking to his own cabin. Moments later, obtained a course to leave safely the planetary system, the Gula Space freighter begin to move out of the orbit and around the planets. Chapter 6. The trip to Aurean from Aquarii 31 b. Daron was seated at his post on the cabin, and looking at his console. Instead of numbers or planets, he was looking at the affidavit of passengers he was carrying on the pods. The politicians had interesting backgrounds; wealthy and with much connections. If he looks on them on degrees of importance- they were at the top. Saron thinks about them as conspirators- perhaps they were going to Aurean to buy more warships? Certainly the idea of a Vergeltung- a war of revenge against the Knappian was afoot? Rumors he had heard, but he finds them utopist. He calls on Raneton the pilot telling his doings. Raneton think for a moment on that subject, and said It is very probably our race wants to revenge the damages was great, and if it was not by 112 Weiher Gofarten, our race would have died. Yes, Weiher Gofarten is our savior! He had reigned over our people, once. Now we are a republic.- Daron remembered. EC #45 said: we are ready to make the transition, Sir. Do you want to be here or on the pods? At the pod. No need of me over here- just wakes me up when nearing Aurean planet.- Daron said, walking to the hibernation chambers. Two months later, he awoke, looking at EC #45, who was there. Hi.- He said, with sandy throat.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Welcome, Sir. We are approaching Aurean planet; the time expend was two months 20 days and 6 hours, Sir. Nice trip. Hows the ship?- He asked, touching his beard. As new, Sir. Uneventful flight. Nothing of importance occurred.- EC #45 said, walking besides him. That is news.- Daron said, smiling. Dylithium crystal is ending, Sir. You better buy a replacement in /Aurean.- EC 45 said. But the price is cheaper on Earth.- Daron said. If you want to be marooned on space, just wait and see, Sir.- EC 45 said, and then Daron believes it was a real necessity to buy another Dylithium crystal- or perish. The Aurean space fleet was also there, huge blue behemoths of machinery, with hundred of people living there, serving the Aurean civilization from pirates of the Space, or alien scavengers, greedy beings with no morals. 113

CHAPTER # 7. ARRIVAL TO Aurean ORBIT.

Obtained the orbit, the Gula begin to revolve around Aurean planet; several thousand other vessels were doing the same thing, populating the space like sparks of light- the vicinity of the stratosphere. Time to awake our passengers.- Arkilo said, as he was near the cryogenic pods. Do it. Raneton: prepare the shuttle craft! Cargo the valises and stuff of that people down.- Daron ordered. We will be doing two trips, Captain! Too much craters were brought by this people!- Raneton advised. Use them!- Daron acknowledged and to EC 50 he said: Call our clients to come reclaiming their electronic stuff! Already donned, Sir!- EC 50 said They are coming in nineteen hours more; as we had a revolving orbit, we must be close to their spot to make the rendezvous economical. Yeah! A synchronic orbit would have been better.- Daron said. Mr. Roll was exhilarant to see Aurean planet at his reach; he said to Daron: Well donned, captain! You brought us safely! Yes, but it took some months more than suggested first. No matter that! We are here and thats the important thing!The shuttle is ready! You will travel in the smaller vehicle, and your cargo in a second bigger shuttle- the point of landing is Aurean space port- big enough 114

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer to pass undetected. Yes, that is the idea! Well, Captain Daron thanks you and good bye!- Mr. Roll said, handshaking him. An EC guided them to the shuttle, and the small vehicle was detached from the freighter. Departing, captain!- EC 40 said who was piloting that craft full of politicians. All right, EC! Do a soft landing!- Daron said, and he saw how that vehicle was soon swallowed by many a cloud. Pity hell be forced to wait here until the second orbit!- Raneton said, from the pilot seat. He has his orders!- Daron said, and walked to the airlock, where EC 50 was standing. The Flier #2 is being downloaded already, Sir.- EC 50 said. Fine . Revise the stuff again; well try to sell those things at Aurean city.Captain Daron said, and the EC 50 accented with an affirmative movement of his head. The orbit was accomplished in two hours thirty four minutes; the small shuttle in fact a Flier) approaches rapidly to the enormous freighter- by comparison, and soon it was inside a haul. EC 40 presented to the Captain, saying: All the passengers were grounded, Sir.| Very well, go back to your duties!- Captain Daron said, smiling. Hours later, a silver spacecraft from the IRNO Company approaches to take their cargo away! Captain Daron talked with 115 The AB models in charge: Here are the memory pills with the detail of your cargo. Everything its there. The AB model in charge reads the information in five seconds, saying: A very complete record, Sir. Thanks.- Daron said, looking how all the cargo was transferred to the spaceship; forty five minutes later, they went down to the inferior layers of the troposphere. -Labor accomplished! - Raneton said, smiling from his post- he was now envisioning the delights of a shore leave. Yes! We will be visiting Aurean city on the Flier; but we need somebody staying here!- Daron said; and as nobody was willing to do so, they gamble at the dice until Foren (the radio man) was chosen to wait until their return. Its not fair!- He kept on saying, so Daron said: All right! I will stay here too! You two (Arkilo and Raneton) will go first- for five days only! Then you will get back and well be descending to that city. They were all agreed, but Daron was not in the least happy with the refusal of Foren, so he secretly was thinking in how to punish him- or replace him by some other astronaut. While he was there orbiting Aurean planet, he gets in touch with Chancellor Tupine. Good to have you back, Captain Daron!- That gentleman said, using the super radio. 116 Sorry because of the delays, Sir! Have been occupied.- Daron said, by way of excuse. No matter that! I have some news to tell you! Why dont you come to my apartment? We will talk about this.- The Chancellor said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Very well, Sir! Ill be there in two hours.- Daron said, after looking where he was in the orbit. Bring a pair of your Electronic Creatures!- The Chancellor asked and ends the communication. Daron wished not to let the unreliable Foren, so he said to him: An important client calls on me; you will accompany me, too. Oh! So we will be departing to the surface of Aurean planet?- A happier Foren asked him. Yes. Perhaps you will be having your shore leave after all.- Daron said, and to the Electronic Creatures he ordered to defend the freighter, in case someone could want to the inside without his permission. We will defend your possession, Sir.- EC 50 said in the name of the EC all. Daron wasnt going to spent all the time at the surface, but said nothing. The Flier was piloted by EC 45, with EC 44 at his side as his radar- radio man. Foren was seated at his captains side, with a lascivious look on his eyes, envisioning the delights Aurean City was going to offer him later. At the spaceport they landed, and Captain Daron puts an advertisement saying his freighter was available 117 To carry goods and passengers. No destination point- as it will depend from the clients. Then, and using the same Flier, they traveled to the Chancellors building, where they landed minutes later- a fee was to be paid to stay there- but not much than 3 hours elapsed time. You certainly has wealthy friends, Captain!- Foren said. The Chancellor is a very generous man.- Daron said, smiling as he didnt feel he has any real friendship with the important man, but more than anything else, a relation between a patron and his assistant. The Chancellor himself receives them at his office, saying: Captain Daron and his crewman! Good to see you.- And walking around his des, handshake both of them. Thanks you, Sir! At last I am here to be of service.- Daron said. Take a seat, please! - The Chancellor said, seating himself behind his desk. An Assistant come and gives them drinks- a good whisky on the rocks, that puts a wider smile on Forens lips And which planets do you visited this time, Captain?- Chancellor Tupine asked. Earth and Domicilium, Sir. Nice trips with happy endings.- Daron said. I congratulate you for that. I remember I offered you a job- to carry minerals between our planetary systems orbs. Yes, that is what you said.- Daron said, expectantly- it signifies a good earning with short voyages in a familiar and secures environs. Pitifully, I must give up my post tomorrow! My days as the Chancellor are over.- Chancellor Tupine explains. Daron realizes he was ending his powerful career- or perhaps not? He said: I think that your offer will be not sustained- the one who promise me a job? Well, thats impossible by now. You take too long for your return- and I think you make good profits while traveling through space, didnt you? - The Chancellor Tupine asked.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Yes, good profits, but as you must understand, I also had huge expenses on my trips.- Daron said. I will need your space freighter in the near future- only it will be dangerous.Chancellor Tupine said. I had carried all kind of dangerous elements and cargo over the years, Sir! I have no afraid of any cargo or environs nowadays.- Daron said. There are secrets I must unfold before your eyes and more of this, later. You are coming from the deep space and from the deep freeze. I am sure you need relax. You and your assistants. Tonight I will be out of my premises, but I offer you my hospitality for the night. Tomorrow we will be talking again, Captain Daron.- The Chancellor said. 119 Daron was happy now, knowing the Chancellor Tupine knows what a man always want more than food. That is, sex. So he look upon his crew member Foren, who wasnt delighted at all there, among expensive furniture, and his host, who was stiff and hard faced as a chief. Once they were at a resting room, Daron said: If you want to take your shore leave, take it! I will deposit some money at your Bank account.Captain! You will make me the most happier of men if you are telling it seriously! -Foren said, remembering how adamant was Daron saying no! Yes, you better go alone! Here you will bored stiff furthermore, the Chancellor will speak of business with me, and thats all.- Daron explained, part of the truth All right! Make the deposit! Only- how I will contact you- to return aboard spaceship? - And Foren was saying so, as he had spent years at a time; jobless- and knows perfectly well what poverty was about. Daron calls to the spaceship, using the holographic set from the living room, and telling EC 50 to make a deposit of 1.300 Credits at the Forens bank account. All right, Sir. Deposit to officer Foren the space sailor- donned. Are you well, Sir?- EC 50 asked. Yes, we are fine.- Daron said, and to Foren he said: Using a holographic set you just call on my 120 Name. I will be detected and at the freighter they will sent you a Flier.- Daron said. Thanks you, Captain! Enjoy yourself.- He said, departing. Jaivor, the Assistant at the house of the Chancellor, approaches him, saying; Certainly Im glad to see you again, Captain Daron. I see your man departed. Is he to come back soon? No, Mr. Jaivor: hes on shore leave, and hell return to the Freighter after his days of joy.- Daron explained, feeling at ease now he was the only guest. Very well, Captain Daron. Do you wish to see your bedroom now? Yes, by all means. Perhaps Im needing a bath.- He replied, walking behind the Assistant; soon he was on those luxury bedrooms the Chancellor has for his guests. He takes a warm bath bubbles and all. One lady appears when he was drying himself with a shower of hot air. Hi! Im Fania! Your assistant here.- She said, indicating the whole bedroom. Fine, Fania! Nice to meet you.- He said, gasping at her sight- the woman was tall and white skinned, long legs ending on high heel shoes; her garments were

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer a pale green blouse and a small pant, that ends at mid thigh- and all her body was superb. She takes a towel from a rack, and puts it around his shoulders, saying; Too much air 121 Could give you a cold! Daron stepped out of the tube, and walked to the bed- she lie in there, saying: You are likable, Daron. He kissed her lips, and she said: guess well understand each other rather well.- And embraced him Daron was sure he was going to enjoy his shore leave She spent the rest of the afternoon there; at 20.00 hours, she receives a phone call, and then she said: Dinner is served, Daron. Are you willing to eat? Yes! I feel I can eat a camel!- He said, remembering that strange alien animal of the deserts. He was dressed by her, with a golden coat and green trousers; she dressed with her previous attire, and then walked to the table on the dinner room; they were served by three assistants, with the company of Jaivor, who was standing near the table and opposite to them. He said. I see you happier now, Captain Daron! I guess I know the cause. Yes, its this special creature whos seated at my side: Fania. Jaivor said: Oh, yes! Miss Fania, is a very lovable person, really, and able to serve at all times. Certainly thats true.- Daron said, and Fania laughed and said: our captain is very sympathetic. He makes me laugh but also hes very tender. I am sure he is.- Jaivor said, while the Assistants serves wine and fruits to them. 122 After the dinner, they walked by a corridor to a place where they could play doing bodily exercises, mainly with cords suspended from the ceiling, big boxes that could be climb using by hand rails and so they chased each other suing those things. She often pretends to be climbing using hand rails, and so they chased each other with those things. She often pretends to be chase, occasions when Daron could kiss her breasts or lips- then she jumped free and the chase begins again. They also swim in a small green tiled pool, made on the floor using marble; the water was warm and her voice keeps on making echoes he loves to hear. They return to the bedroom to rest and love each other some more. Daron slept four hours afterwards, and awakes under her kisses, and love her again until the morning. My love, I must go now. Perhaps we could see each other at night.- Faina said. He pressed her hands and said: I am not sure. The Chancellor is going to talk about important matters to me.- Daron said. I guess it is so. Bye.- She said, running away, not to delay her departure. Daron smiled and slept some more. The Assistant Jaivor approaches him, after some time, saying; Captain Daron! The Chancellor is coming home; time of arrival: fifteen minutes. I recommend you to be ready at his return. Yes, of course.- Daron said, yawning. You will find new clothes for you to wear. The Chancellor has provided. Use them, please.- Jaivor said, departing.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Two maids appears, with towels and liniments, saying: Time to take your morning 123 Shower, Sir! And they helped him be ready in time- when the Chancellor Tupine did arrive, he was already waiting at the living room. Captain Daron! Good to see you again! Do you sleep well?- The Chancellor asked, politely. Yes, Sir, perfectly well. Your attentions embarrassed me- so fine and complete they are.- Daron said. Lets seat! Now, I will tell you what you could do to help me in some works we are dealing with nowadays. I must add that you must never tell anyone about what we are now going to talk.- The Chancellor said. Of course, Sir. My lips are sealed.- Daron said. To day I will cease to be the Chancellor- at 15.15 hours, my replacement will take office- my work will be ended. Im sorry to hear that. Perhaps you loved your present post.Daron said. The Chancellor smiled and said: When I became a Chancellor, I knew it was not for ever! My post now must be handled over. But lets not speak about this right now! The job I can assure you is other than carrying minerals over our planetary system. There are some people interested in weaponry. You mean- the Neongos? Right. I know you are one of the remains of that old race of humans. The Knappian invaded Jerifordion planetary system and play havoc with your race. 124 Years had passed and now theres a leader who wants to revenge.- The Chancellor said. You mean, our President at Domicilium?- Daron asked him. Yes, Jurgen Hidler, the one that has now a real big Armada of Spaceships. And you want me to carry weaponry?- Daron said, reeling. Yes! They need weapons, ammunition! The spaceships arrive there on their own. And not to alert the civilized world, we need freighters manned by particulars such as you, with no political tidings. I will be traveling mounted on a pack of dynamite!- Daron complained. Chancellor Tupine touches his arms, saying: I will be seating next to you! At least in the first trip! You know, they are offering me a good post in the government. That means much to you, which are not seeking money, like me.- Daron replied. Well, a little money on the side its never too bad!- Chancellor Tupine said, sarcastically, adding: If you say yes, we could begin loading your freighter very soon. Sorry my asking, but how much money they are going to pay me?- Daron asked. Millions! If you succeed! If you fail or are caught, you will be in the open with nobody to blame. All of our actions and transactions are only verbal.Chancellor Tupine assured him. 125 So, I will resume: you will be at the freighter as a tourist; my hauls will be full of weaponry; I travel to Mundifico with it and deliver there- get paid and your descend to the satellite. Am I right?- Daron asked him.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer You are right. See what I will do now: I will get your searing oath to be secretive about this.I swear . But my crew I cannot assure you they will be secretive. Change from Natural to Artificial Intelligence! Or do you work only with naturals?- And the Chancellor became worried. No, of course not! I have a dozen synthetic persons on board. We dont need the natural people, but let me ask them- I could manage to tell them we have explosives- not weaponry- and if they accept the danger, so be it!- Daron said. The Chancellor looks at him for a short while, and said: Very well. But I will make you personal responsible if something leaks out!Accepted! Daron said, feeling himself a little like that mythic Quixote ,pushing things to the extreme and only blaming himself. I will give you money as soon as the organization knows and accept you as a part of the plan. See that I am relying on you totally; an error on your part and my neck is in it; will provoke our derision.- Chancellor Tupine said. I am ready to work for you, Sir.- Daron said. Very well. I only beg of you not to leave my 126 home until we see the light! Anything you could want, ask it to my Assistant, Mr. Javior.- he could ask some servant to go out and purchase what you need.Chancellor Tupine said, looking at this wrist watch. Thanks for your hospitality.- Daron said. We are partners, now! Remember I will be your passenger at your spaceship!The Chancellor said, departing. Daron was happy there, and he went to his bedroom to lie in bed. Chancellor Tupine was already at the Ministry of the Interior; there were numerous important persons like the Minister of Defense, the Minister of Finances, The Minister of the Interior, the Minister of Justice, talking there before the reunion with President Magofa who supposedly was in a reunion. General Boro approaches him, saying: Good morning, Chancellor ! Ready to begin a quiet life? Boro was a cousin to the President, prone to tell him every word he heard, so the answer was:Yes, I am happy to have finished my labor in a correct way; but if his Excellency calls me in the future, I will gladly serves our country again. Fine disposition you have towards our nation! The new Chancellor is Vicintape; his father was Governor of Trepilbon, for several decades!- General Boro said. Chancellor Tupine knew about that, but feigned ignorance, and his logical thinking was surprised that a person could be rewarded with an important post not because his own merits but for the merits of his father! Some rings were heard, and an Announcer approaches, saying: The President Magofa has arrived! Please take your seats.At the adjacent room, enormous in comparison to the one they had been occupying, the President Magofa was 127 Already seated on a crystal seat. Everyone seats at the rows of chairs in front of his dais. When the approximately hundred persons were finally seated, the Ministry of the Interior said: Matters of the day.- The Chancellery changes command. 2) Acquisitions from Earth. 3) Second star city around V and commerce. 4) Trip of the President to Earth.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Chancellor Tupine, stand up on the central corridor. - The President Magofa said, and Tupine walked to the center of the corridor. A microphone was there, standing on a tripod. Good morning, your Excellency. My Chancellery has finished all the diligences you had asked of me and Assistants. Im proud of it! You had served me well! Now you can retire to your personal affairs with my gratitude. A pension equal to the actual wages you had is granted. Are you satisfied, Mr. Tupine? Tupine was not at all satisfied: the pension equal to actual wages were only 100.000 Credits each thirty days; being a Chancellor, he could expend from the practical unlimited amount that job was given; but now out of that post, the difference was tantalizing. He knows that the amount of credits of a retired Chancellor was barely enough to dress and eat with modesty. He said: I am most 128 Grateful for the generosity our country has bestowed in me all this years, and I hope you could consider me for future services if necessary. It was a short response and also a petition for a post; the President Magofa was expecting nothing else from him, so he said: Mr. Roko Vicintape, please approach to take the post of Chancellor of the government. Berchan walked by the corridor, while Mr. Tupine marched out. Appointed Chancellor is Mr. Roko Vicintape! Present yourself to the President, Mr. Roko! The small stout man with scant hair walked quickly to the corridor, while Tupine walks out by the same corridor; he was not going to attend the rest of the ceremony; he feels sad and disappointed. Sometimes the government gives more time at that post, or gives good jobs afterwards- easier and well paid- to the ex Chancellors. Not his case. He climbs to the roof on a elevator and takes one of the taxi fliers available for the non commissioned; the golden vehicle was not as his service anymore. To Tower 30.- He said to the driver. Tower 30- two minutes.- The driver said, while Mr. Tupine inserts his Credit card, to pay the fare. At Tower 30, apartment 040, he rings the bell and a servant opened the door. Come on in, Sir. Mr. Orson is waiting.- The Assistant said- as it wasnt the first time that Mr. Tupine visits the apartment. Mr. Orson welcomes him, and seated at an arm chair, with glasses of liquor on their right hands, while they talk. So now you are not the Chancellor, Mr. Tupine! I hope you work with us, that begins now, will be of profit for both sides!- Mr. Orson said. Mr. Tupine looked at him, thinking that the man was overstuffed as a turkey, with his ridiculous wig at the back, and said: At the least, I have my pension from now on. Orson gives him a handshake, saying: Glad to hear about it! Only he should had given you some higher job- more durable, I may say. His prerogative is to give what its in the law! But enough of this matters! Im here to fulfill my duties. I already contacted a private captain of a space freighter: Mr. Daron.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer I congratulate you for your efficiency. Weaponry is vital and vital is also the secrecy. Do you trust absolutely on Mr. Daron? = And Orson was tense. I had him as a guest at my home, for the second time in years. He is a man of his word. I will be a passenger on his first flight.- Mr. Tupine said. I see. Well, he is in good hands! Your wages will be one million Credits a year; your title will be Administrator . In our quest, people like you are indispensable, Mr. Tupine.- Mr. Orson said. I need money for to pay our captain Daron. He has seven crewmates and a space freighter in need of fuel. The trip must be paid in advance. I think two million credits are needed.- Mr. Tupine stated. Orson rubbed his cheek and said: Certainly he must be paid. I am receiving money in this 130 Week. If you could wait me for some days, I will give you the funds. I will be waiting for them. If I am a new Administrator, I need money, I need at least ten Assistants, be them normal or synthetics, and where to live on Domicilium.- Mr. Tupine said. As the new general Administrator, you are entitled to a salary of one million credits, but unfortunately by now, at this moment, I cannot pay you, as the funds hadnt arrived to this office. The Assistants, to date, are three Normal Assistants- with wages paid by our Organization. Pertaining to your future abiding place at Domicilium, an item is certainly ascribed to your post in our organization. For me and Assistants? Exactly. For you as well as your Assistants. At your arrival to Domicilium City, you are going to present to our President, and he will answer all your questions.- Orson said, perspiring. Very well, Mr. Orson. I will wait for your call at my home. Have a nice day.- Mr. Tupine said, standing up, handshaking the toad-like man, and departing to his home. He found Mr. Daron Hinauer at the swimming pool, and said: Enjoying your stay, Captain Daron? Yes, Sir! And how are you now that your job is donned? Fine, thanks you.- Mr. Tupine said, smiling. Oh, Mr. Tupine! Glad to hear that you has now time for your own business.Daron exclaimed. Scant money its attached to my pension! But we cannot complain when receiving what life wants to give! About our little scheme, I also talk with some person about; your wages will be paid, and we only have to wait a couple of days.- Mr. Tupine said. Oh. Then perhaps I should leave your hospitality and move to some hotel.Daron said. Not necessarily! Permits me to invite you for as long as we had to wait! In that way, well depart together.- Mr. Tupine said, and Daron was happy to accept. Mr. Tupine went to his office at the house and using the holographic set, he begin talking with some other persons, in order to leave his home and investments in good hands- in fact, Tupine was now a wealthy man, with and thanks to his permanence on the Chancellery for so many years. Daron receives the visit of Miss Fania from 21 yours to 06 hours of the next day during his four days stay at Mr. Tupines mansion. Fania was indefatigable with

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer her twenty four years old: sex, gymnastics, swimming and running= he lost twelve kilos in four days, plus bruises in several parts of his body. Mr. Orson finally calls on Mr. Tupine, saying: Good news, sir! I received all the money you requested and I a m doing a deposit right now on your Bank Account.| Mr. Tupine, who was using his holographic set, was also seeing Mr. Orsons bloated face, and said: I am happy to see you are a man of his word. When are you sending me your valises?- And he said valises instead of cargo. Yes, my valises will arrive 132 Very soon. Ill call you when, sir. All right, then. We will be waiting for your call or your visit.- Mr. Tupine said, smiling when looking at the new numbers on his Bank account. Mr. Orson hangs up. Captain Daron! Please come to my office, please?- Mr. Tupine said, using the intercom. Right away, sir.- Daron said, finishing his elongations at a machine on the gymnasium. He didnt waste time, and appears in front of his host using his sport clothes. Yes, Mr. Tupine? Have you some news?- He asked. I received money: one million Credits are yours! But we must keep on waiting, you know! Our organization didnt have the cargo ready yet! But I assume you will be busy using all your money in the next hours?- Mr Tupine asked. Daron was very happy and said: Of course, Mr. Tupine! Dylithium crystals are what I will buy, to have them in stock. Good that you care about your Freighter! But please stay in contact! Our sponsors could call us in any hours, now.- Mr. Tupine said. Its O.K! I will leave an EC here, so all you had to do, is to tell him you need me here- and the other EC, the one who will be with me, will receive messages and alerts me.- Baron said. Mr. Tupine smiled and said: I will take care of him! These machines are really made with loving care, and its plainly visible for anyone who looks at them patiently. That he said, because he was a great admirer of those EC machines, built on the satellite Domicilium. Daron leaves the house on a Flier, together with EC 49, leaving behind the other model, EC 48, to be in contact with Mr. Tupine. First of all, he needs the Dylithium crystals; he went to a second hand store, and finds two nice crystals never repaired. The seller, a nice man in his forties, said: Good crystals you get here, Sir! They arent repaired but new! See how they shine! And certainly they look in one piece. And how much do you want for these pieces?- Daron asked, afraid to hear that they cost lots of Credits as the final sum. Four millions by the two of them! You see, this pieces would cost five or six millions in a fashion and important shop! Here, of course, I have no luxuries, my renting is low! Thats why I can sell cheap!- The seller, Mr. Hanshu, said. He was fat, big and eye protruding. I just have 800 thousands for to purchase. Daron said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Oh, no! I cannot sell the two of them for such a price! But you can buy me one of those! It only has to be one million.- Hanshu said, with greedy eyes. Oh, I have only 800.000 Credits! = Daron said, not willing to expend all what Mr. Tupine gives him. 134 Go and borrow the 200.000 that it rests! I will take the 800.000 Credits! So, you secure this Crystal! In case somebody comes here- I will not sell it until you come. But if you dont give the advance, impossibly to assure you not to sell it to another person!- Mr. Stanshu said, rubbing his fat hands. Daron shrugged and said; Well, my budget its only of 800.000 Credits, and I guess I will be searching in some other place. No! I will give you Credit! You just take the crystals, and you could pay me later! See, its the profit that Im worry about! With 800.000 Credits you dont comply with my profit- and some of what I invest, too! Mr. Stanshu said, conciliatory. That was apparently final; Daron said: I will see to it! But I want both crystals! 1.800.000 Credits for both of them! I will use my special funds for this! 1.8 million Credits? No! I could leave both crystals for 1.9 million credits but it has to be cash! Cash! I can borrow the money- I prefer to debt to someone else- you dont know me- perhaps I will mortgage my freighter.- Daron said. 135 Mr. Hanshu was astounded -first 800.000 Credits, now 1.9 million Credits and cash! He accepts it, receives the money and encases the Crystals on special boxes. Daron gives them to EC #48, to be carried. Once on the street, he calls for a big Flier and went up to the orbit- soon the Freighter appears, completing one more orbit. They locked unto it, and after paying the fare and inside the freighter. They walked into the corridor EC #48 to release the crystal and Daron to the main cabin. EC #50 welcomes him, and Daron said: Soon cargo will arrive .Take good care of it- represents a big explosion. EC #50 said: Yes, Sir. Weaponry. Trace a course as short as you could. Its important to get ride of those explosions as soon as possible. I am doing this just for money.- Daron explained. Sir they are calling for you at the surface.- EC #48 said. Mr. Tupine? Correct! Hes on another location. It would be better to use the smaller Flier, Sir.- EC #48 said. All right, lets go.- Daron said, leading the way to the Flier. EC #48 manned it, soon they were descending through the clouds, and they saw a red Flier some kilometers away and to the left, the silvery Flier goes smoothly almost to the 6.000 meters, gliding to the right, searching for the northern tip of the continent of Masir. At the center of it, the Aurean city; to the west, Mundifico city. They landed on Mundifico city at 7:30 hours 136 local time. As EC #48 was interconnected with EC #49, Mr. Tupine knew of his arrival, so he waits for the Flier to land on the ground. It was a nice mansion on the fields, surrounded by grass neatly cut.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer The chilly air was refreshing, after the canned air inside the craft, and Daron aspired and felt fine. Welcome to my cottage, Captain! Nice trip?- Mr. Tupine asked. Yes, Sir! I was delivering Dylithium crystals at my freighter! Now we could travel at ease.- Daron said. Precautions never fail to serve! But, please, follow me to the hour! I have good news: the cargo is already achieved. In hours, now the cargo will be delivered to your freighter.- Mr. Tupine said, walking stiffly by the cold. Nice to hear it, sir! Soon well depart, then!- Daron said. Yes. Please come inside.- Mr. Tupine said, and they enter to the three stories building a big hall with translucent floor, that gives the necessary illumination at that early hour. Mr. Tupine offers him a drink, and seats at an armchair, saying: Im troubled about this trip. I was going 137 with you in it, but now I run into several other matters that are very important to me. Would you excuse me for not going? Daron waved his hands saying: By all means, Mr. Tupine! In fact you are not needed in this voyage! I can manage to deliver the goods (he refrained to say weaponry_ if only you tell me who to call.Of course, Captain Daron! But theres something more: I told our client I was going to be on board- to give him assurances, you understand? These politicians are very suspicious and distrust their own father! But them, you must pretend, at all times, that I am in your freighter.- Mr. Tupine asked of him. Daron wasnt at all interested in Mr. Tupines reasons not to travel in his Freighter, so he said: I will tell whoever asks, that you are aboard and sealed on a cryogenic pod. Mr. Tupine gives him 1.500 Credits, saying: Take this for your efforts! We will be making more deals when you reach Domicilium! I will follow you has soon as my deals here come to a finish!- And standing up, he added: please, accept my hospitality for the night= I mean: tomorrow you could depart! Thanks you, Mr. Tupine, but I No, no! I beg of you! I have some guests to dine- perhaps you could enjoy our conversation, too. 21 hours sharp._ Mr. Tupine said. 138 I accept! I cannot refuse your kind hospitality!- Daron said, feeling himself accepted. My assistant here, Mr. Brenom, will attend your every wish. I am ringing for him to appear; hell show your room.- Mr. Tupine said. Moments later, Mr. Brenom appears and guided him to the third floor, saying: Its a nice room, Sir. One of your EC is there, waiting. Daron finds EC 49 there, as he said, and EC 48 was behind him- so he was with his 2 Electronic Creatures and only the hour to depart was needed to begin his trip. He takes a shower, and when arriving to his bedchamber, he saw Miss Fania already bedded. Hi!- She said, smiling beautifully. You! What a big surprise! Daron said, throwing the towel away and jumping to the bed.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer She embraces him, saying: Dear! Please tell your Electronic Creatures to look the other way? Of course! Electronic Creatures! Face to the wall!- He said, and the Electronic Creatures turn towards the wall, in an obedient way. Hours later, he descends and went to the dinning room, guided by Mr. Brenom, who had knocked at his door fifteen minutes earlier. He enters the room, where Mr. Tupine presents him to the five men who were also his guests. They were dressed as differently as it could be- Daron, who knew about alien clothes, identified them as from Knapp, Lerbiu, Ketibar V, Janarvia and Fagadon. This last was, of course, a Chinese. 139 Once presented, Mr. Tupine monopolized the conversation for long minutes while they waited for the fishes; he explains the need the Jerifordians natives had. A brave race, decimated by the greedy desires of king Knapp! The miners from Knapp take advantage and grab the mountains of planet V at the Jenifordion realm! When the Neongos tried to reject them, they were attacked with every means: even with bacteriological warfare! Now Jerifordion planet is an inhabitable planet.- Mr. Tupine explains. The Chinese said: But I am informed they are happy at their new home= Domicilium! Not quite! Captain Daron here is a Neongos! Tell you our guests what do you feel living at Domicilium!- Mr. Tupine said. Daron said: We are happy to have a new home; we are in a more advanced civilization surroundings - of course, when speaking of Branas nothing is for certain, but at least at our points of connection, that is the truth. A fat man from Lerbiu asked him, doubtfully: I dont understand your logic, but tell me: are you really happy living in a satellite where the night comes twice in 24 hours? As I live among the stars and visiting alien worlds, Im a poorer example, so I guess my own ideas are of little value. My fellowmen thinks that to live in a blinking world with a shaky 140 Ground isnt the best of ideas- no matter the hypothetical proximity to Earth Planet. They all laughed, and Mr. Tupine takes the occasion to say: certainly our Captain is self deprecatory! I am sure his view is shared by the 90 or 95 % of all the Neongos! That is why our Organization is funding President Hidler efforts to revenge the Neongos civilization and takes Knapp as their future planet. They all applauded, even Daron, who was not sure to have heard such nonsense from a gentleman he had in great esteem. The man from Lerbiu said; The first thing to do is to transform into a spirit able to endure much and like the camel, bear the demands of the desert- an attitude that accepts the obligations of life, patiently tolerating the loneliness of knowledge and suffering the hunger of the soul for the sake of the truth. Who is him? Speak the truth with fiery eyes!- Daron asked to Mr. Tupine. He is my friend of the Organization, Mr. Ronfordel, one of the founders of the League of the Vergeltung.- Mr. Tupine said. Yes, I am the strange Mr. Ronfordel! And I tell you what, young fellow. Your nation must recover Jerifordion. It is the transformation fo the spirit into the lion,

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer the embodiment of the concept I want is characterized by a striving for freedom and self assertion. The spirit must now become liberated from the pressure of values that have existed for one thousand years and aspire new ones. 141 Daron was sure it was at the midst of a group of visionaries, which ignores the fact he knows so well: Jerifordion planet was poisoned to the core, and no force of the will was going to clean the soil. After a while more, several assistants serves soup, salads and bread; 20 minutes later, all dishes ere retired and new ones were places in front of them: meat and vegetables, wine and cheese. Daron eats, while the Ketibarian V man was saying: We have an aim, achieved by the will of our egos: the will to create and revalue- battling with the dragon of thou shalt, the keeper of traditional superstition. Our final metamorphosis of the lion into the child, the symbol of the brain power to transform and in the sacred yes lay the possibility of completing the great work with the ease of a self- turning wheel = that work being the creation of the new planet and the heralding of the eternal recurrence. Daron drinks more of the red wine; very sure he was among melancholic men. After the deserts, they begin to play chess, beating for each game, and large sums to the winners were assumed. At midnight the players were almost extenuated by the brain exertion, and Daron has 8.000 more credits on his Bank Account; same thing was occurring to Mr. Ronfordel. Everyone else was losers- including the host, Mr. Tupine. 142 They went their separate bedchambers, while Mr. Ronfordel beamed through the corridor this phrase: But the awakened and knowing say: Body I am entirely and nothing else; and soul is only a word for something about the body. Oh, you come back!- She said, awakening, while Daron presses the fruits of love with his two hands. The dreamy hours begins dripping over them until the morning; with a final, energetic caress, Fania went away at six hours; at seven hours someone knocked at the door; Daron opens it, and looks on Mr. Brenom, the butler, who said: My patron bare you well; I recommend you to leave at 08 hours; at that time, your spaceship will be passing near this spot; the next passing will be at 9:10 hours. All right, Im coming!- Daron said, running to the shower. Soon afterwards, dressed and followed by his two Electronic Creatures, he leaves that house, climbs to the Flier and arrives just in time for the rendezvous with the Gula freighter in time to see five Wagon Fliers appear carrying the explosives. This were encased in black plastic boxes, and were storage by the Electronic Creatures and the ABs 143 Who came at those wagon fliers? The e-person in command said: All 340 boxes are on board, Captain. Good voyage. Thanks you, Captain. My name is AB 03L2.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Captain AB 03L2: tell your chief Ill try to carry these explosives as far as my appointed target, but if something goes wrong and I disappear in an explosion, do not blame Mr. Tupine, who is a good and fine gentleman.- Daron said. Very well, Sir. Good riddance to you.- Captain AB 03L2 said, departing. Daron begin his trip with his freighter full of explosives capable of to send every bit of the ship flying in every direction if some of the encased bombs could activate itself by some mistake in the making. Every natural men on board was jumpy and ill mannered, and Daron was everywhere trying to minimize the frictions among them. Six days after the departure, EC #50 said: Sir, our calculations to make a nice entry to the vicinity of Domicilium is already donned. Shall we proceed? Well, yes! I assume we could postpone the freezing of bodies. 144 EC #50 said: If our calculations are correct, you will not need to send Natural men to the pods, captain! Very well, give the alarm!- Daron said, walking to his seat and strapping to it. Attention everyone! Brana jump in five minutes and counting!- The alarm system said throughout every cabin, corridor, deck and haul of the spatial freighter Gula. Everyone comply with the order, remembering more than one occasion where careless crewmen had lost their life because of ignoring such alert. The jump was made; Daron waits with his fingers crossed after it, afraid of to feel the first of the explosions that would mark his end but, no. The ship keeps on marching, now towards a sun that was not a parsec away; the voice of EC #50 was saying by the loudspeakers: Jump already donned. Time to arrival: fifty minutes, Domicilium satellite. Daron smiled and feel happy. The deep sleep was avoided, they were in one piece, and everything looks to be working fine. Call on Domicilium Orbital Station- tell them were on course.- Daron asks of the pilot. Sending message, Sir. Soon well be having responses.- The pilot said, mechanically- it was EC # 45. Moments later, the Control Tower at the Orbital Station 145 Recognize them as legal space freighter and allow them to have an orbit of approaching to the Orbital Station. Send the special transmission- it will tell the Organization we are arriving: Daron said to Foren, who was at the holographic set radio transmitter and all. Sending, three pulses of five seconds.- Foren said, looking at Daron. That is all right, and no more! It will appear as an error in communication- but not for the Conspirators.- Daron explained. The orbital station appears in the black sky as a rhombus with shiny facets and lots of antennas and a pair of gun cannons- pirates could appear when less expecting and that was a fact. Suddenly, a staccato of sounds were received by the holographic set- the decoder, special designed, translated it to human voice, that said Message received. Wait for a shuttle. That was quick!- Daron said, looking surprised. This cargo must be delivered presto, Captain! It smells to smuggling.- Foren said, a thing Daron was well aware of. Half an hour later, a silvery spaceship of

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer small size approaches the freighter, and locked into an airlock. The EC received the couple of persons that descended from it and guided them to the main cabin. Welcome to the Gula freighter, Gentlemen! I am Captain Daron Hinauer!Daron said, looking at both n-men; they were tall and hard faced. One of them, who use a green suit (the other was suing a coffee color suit) said: I am 146 Onare Felton, and this is Laker Fok, from Organization Return. Glad to meet you, Sirs.- Daron said, wondering if they were, or not, members of the Organization, that up to that moment has no other name attached. Thanks. We know you travel from the Aurean Planetary system, bringing us weapo9nry. Some shuttle crafts are being prepared to come and receive our cargo. Very well, but how I know you are the legitimate people you are saying that you are?- Daron asked, as he was only receiving an oral sentence and nothing tangible. Oh, dont you worry! Pity Mr. Tupine hasnt come! He knows us- at least, when talking with us by the holographic set. In any case, Captain Daron, do you know who is behind our organization?- Mr. Onare Felton asked. I was not informed, gentleman.I can inform you, now that you had arrived safely: The government of President Jurgen Hidler! We had a big Armanda, and we need weaponry and explosives. So you must stay calm, Captain- future trips awaits you, I am sure that the government will pay you every kilometer you travel for us.- Onare Felton said. Something blips at the wrist of the second man, Mr. Laker Fok; he pressed a button on its attached receiver, and after reading a message on a small screen, he said: The fist shuttle is approaching, Chief. Very well! They are on its way! Please see that you deliver the merchandise to them, Captain Daron! We will be around, giving you a hand.- Mr. Onare Felton said. 147 I will appreciate it.- Daron said, thinking just the opposite- the stiffness of those persons wasnt his idea of an easy delivery- Mr. Tupine wasnt explicit, and this was the cost. The first shuttle arrives, bearing a commercial sign on the side, but military Electronic Creatures were on it, that was very efficient on the carrying of the crates. His own Electronic Creatures were, of course, organizing it, too. The shuttle takes several tons of crates on board, and soon it was descending into the space freighter already. During the cargo of the shuttles, Onare Felton and Laker Fok worked hard and when all the cargo was taken out of the Gula freighter. All of the explosive are out of our freighter, captain. We can breath freely now.- Raneton said, looking by the window how the last shuttle was leaving. There was information they didnt tell me at Aurean planet! These guys are from the government.- Daron said. The n-people opened wide their eyes and Foren laughed, saying: And I was so preoccupied about the Police! That means we could make more trips like this one!- Daron announced. Shore leave?_ Pilot Raneton asked.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Of course! Fifteen days! You have a month of pay pending and I will give that amount to each of you before you leave the freighter. They all cheered him. Then Daron added: Its very important that you ignore all about this cargo we brought here, and not to talk about it . Its a secret.- Daron was sure they were going to be followed by agents when landing, but he cannot do more than tell them about it. I will be in touch with you, at the end of your leave. There is a mystery how I am going to be in touch with Mr. Tupine, but I hope he will show up.- Daron said. Come with us, Captain! I am sure you will wait for Mr. Tupine in better company!- Foren said, touching his left arm. Who knows? But I will wait her for two days- then Ill go to the surface to see where you are hiding.- Daron said, jokingly. We will call you when we find a good shelter, Captain.- Arkilo said, smiling. Daron paid them, and using a flier, they descend to Domicilium City howling like wolves Daron seats at his command post, looking at spaceships coming and going. He marveled about where the Army of President Hidler could be- not many military vessels were in sight. Daron heard the news on the holographic set, in order to catch up with actual reality at the last stand of his own race. He realize President Hidler was almost the builder of a new era of abundance and recovery- he was sure that half of it should be propaganda, but the other half had to be true, or people would had been demonstrating on the contrary. 149 He also chooses to hear several of President Hidler speeches. He appears as a very determinate person, perhaps a one-idea man. His speeches ere always based on the recovery of the might the Neongos had before the war against the invaders- that is, the Knappian. We are returning to our full strength, and soon we will be recovering our planet for this purpose! This satellite is the sample of what we can achieve in scant 200 years!- And so on; Daron call on EC #50, saying: No news of Mr. Tupine yet? No messages, Sir. You should go to the surface and have your Vacation, Sir. When he will ultimately arrive here, I am sure he will be asking you to make another trip, and you will not have time to spare on vacations.. Daron was already feeling lonely at the spaceship, so he said: Perhaps you are right, EC #50. Domicilium is not like Aurean city, but has its charms. Hours later, he receives messages from the crew on Domicilium, indicating their whereabouts. We are at Hotel Nielsen, Captain! Nice weather, too.- Fore indicated. Do not get into trouble! Remember we are going to work after this vacation.Daron said. Do not spoil everything telling us our future obligations, Sir! And tell us when are you arriving here!- Foren demanded. Possibly tomorrow.- Daron replied. Happy to hear that, Sir! We will be waiting you, to go and dry some Taverns!Fore joyfully said, hanging out. 150

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Daron revised all the ship in search of failures or mistakes, finding a couple; he fixed them with the air of his Electronic Creatures , and went to sleep, in order to be ready for his departure. The freighter keeps orbiting the satellite passing over the equator; other vessels were also attached to similar orbits at different altitudes from the ground- the farther were seeing just stars over the blackness of space. At 06 hours, Domicilium time, he enters on the smaller shuttle, with EC #48 and #49, and seating at a chair, he said: Lets go to Domicilium City! EC #48 moves the Flier out of the haul, and begin the separation from the orbit in a swift way. Twenty minutes for the arrival, Sir. Hotel Nielsen is the target.- EC #48 said from the pilots seat. Call on the crewmen and tell them we are on our way.- He said, smiling. The traversing through the atmosphere was beautiful, as there were patches of clouds hanging over the city; EC #48 make a U turn and landed precisely at the center of the platform. Nice landing, EC #48! Guess we will be paying for a place to park this vehicle.- Daron said to the synthetic person. I already ask for a place, Sir! They had a lift for these machines- the hangar is located on floor 20 and 21.- EC #48 said. Daron didnt dare to ask how much it will cost, not to spoil the moment. Do you know where the crewmen had their den?- He asked. Yes, Sir. Room 84. You already are booked on number 90.- EC #48 informed him. All right, meet us there. Come along, EC #49!- Daron said, using the EC as bodyguard, as always he was on a planet. There was heat outside the Flier, and he was perspiring while walking around the platform to catch the elevator At the ground floor, they enter to the Nielsen Hotel, and asked a Natural Bellboy about room 90. You know the renter there?- The bellboy asked keenly, eyeing him and his metallic companion. I know him like I know myself! Because I am the renter!- Daron said, and the bellboy checked names and finds the key for him. Oh. You were booked by some other gentleman! So you hadnt seen your apartment yet, Sir?- The bellboy asked them, guiding the march through the corridors. Not yet, you boy!- Daron said, smiling. Oh! You will be surprised! Because it is a suite- all for yourself. And your robot.- The bell boy said, eyeing the mechanical man, marching behind them. At the suite, that was huge, Daron finds several bottles and glasses on a table, plus a message, sprouting form a small holo-projector, saying that the bottles were for a celebration. He smiled, as he noted his small crew was friendly to him. The bellboy explained to the EC some hidden gadgets to provide some more comfort to the natural man, and departed. 152 The first night was coming, and the windows begin to shine more brightly, to replace the daylight that was fading out. A knock on the door and EC #49

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer arrives, saying: The Flier is already on the assigned place, Sir. 230 Credits for parking there. Daron takes a hot shower and dressed with a nightgown, saying; EC #49: set the temperature on seventeen Centigrade, please.- And the EC complies, turning a knob on a wall. He seats at a small table and ask for an ice-cream; apart of the almost instantaneous glass of ice-cream, a green message appears, saying that he could ask meals up to 200 Credits in all- more than that amount; it was going to be charged extra. He finished the ice-cream and throws the remnants into the waste disposal. Somebody rings the bell, and EC #49 opens the door, after Daron looks on the screen who was outside. The three crewmen enters the suite, laughing. Captain! So you finally decide to come here!- Raneton said. Yes! I thought that Mr. Tupine is going to arrive with urgent new tasks! So I better waits here, before its too late to have some fun.- Daron said, and they laughed in empathy. We already make some acquaintances, Captain! You will not complain! = Raneton announced, blinking an eye. I am sure I will not! You are experts chasing females!- Daron said, smiling. Not as much as experts, Captain! But we did try!- Arkilo said. The night is young, Captain! Put on your clothes and lets begin!- Foren urged him. I was thinking in a good sleep.- Daron said, but Raneton interrupted him by saying: Dont tell us that old tale, captain! 153 We know you have fire in your veins!- Arkilo said. Daron dressed himself in scant minutes and said: we better leave the Electronic Creatures in here. Yes, Captain! These Synthetic beings scare the girls!- Foren said, so the Electronic Creatures remains at the suite, with orders not to move out of it. They climb to the roof on a elevator and in a taxi Flier they departed to the fun side of town. They choose a place where the people could be that the roulette as well as being attended by women. Fore said: The one who bets and wins, sure thing is going to spent his earnings on chicks!- And he was saying that because the women at the place were very well chosen- decent looking, tall and with superb bodies. They bet at the roulette, but the only winner of them was the pilot, Raneton. They went to a table, while he went to change his chips. He is for ever lucky! But dont worry, Captain! He is very generous!- Foren said. And as he said it was- Raneton paid for the drinks and for a while with the women- at a private that also had small places where to make love, among bars and mirrors in every angle- Daron leaves there his inner tensions, much to the release of his mind. The woman said, afterwards: I bet you are a space sailor! Yes, how do you know? By the way you were panting; any woman would have known it!She laughed.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Raneton said: Hey, girls! We have some days of fun to play with! Why dont you take leave of this joint and accompany us while we are on this city? One of them said: But every sailor says the same to us! And afterwards they get bored at the second day! No, we are very different!- Foren assured her. Swear that for what you love the most!- Another woman asks of him. No problem at all! I sear it by my mother ashes!- And everybody was silent for a while, as it was a very serious oath. We are very costly, dears! At least 2.000 Credits per day!- The Fores companion advanced. What do you think of us? Do you think we are going to chicken before your fares?- Arkilo said, defiantly. Fares? What do you think we are, taxi Fliers?- His companion asked, turning red in anger. No of course not! You certainly arent a taxi Flier!- Arkilo said. So? What are we, you piece of shit?- Her companion asked, throwing away any condescendence. You are a trio of whores, of course!- Arkilo said, laughing. Then the three women begin to hit them, and some thugs come to the rescue- in fact, it was no necessary to defend the women, but the males! In any case, they were thrown out of the place by a backdoor, finding themselves in a scantly lit alley. Whores!- Foren cried and yelled unto the door, banging on it for a while. 155 They begin walking by the alley, when five guys appear by the opposite side, looking at them. Assault! I am sure those guys at the Bar knows what happens with the ones thrown out.- Daron said. I am sure they know it, but right now we get to save our asses!- Foren said, while Daron was now calling the Electronic Creatures with his button of panic, a small gadget that begins to call the Electronic Creatures giving the exact spot where he was (GPS). Forget about them, Captain! Here! Take this stick.- Raneton said, after taking it from the ground. Soon they were fighting against the ghouls. When they were loosing terrain, two silvery figures appear, pushing the ghouls to the walls, knocking them out of the fight. Foren run to them, taking every item from their clothes and wrists, weapons included. Lets beat it! The police could appear here in any moment.- Raneton said, taking Captain Daron by an arm. They climb to the Flier that was brought by the Electronic Creatures, who manned the Flier back to the Niels Hotel. Foren said: Captain: you are bleeding! Daron puts a hand on a side of his chest, sensing it was wet- with blood. Raneton opens the shirt, showing a gash provoked evidently by a LASER knife. Well, the cut was superficial but must be stitched.- Arkilo said. I will call a doctor.- EC #49 said, using his radio transmitter. 156 When at the hotel, they clean wounds and changes of clothes, while the doctor arrives. Is he bleeding?- Arkilo asked, worriedly.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer No, its bandaged. At least, infection is difficult, as the LASER is a beam of ionized light.- Raneton said. The doctor arrives twenty minutes later, saying: Good night, gentlemen! Sorry, but I was busy in another case! Wheres the wounded person? There he is!- Raneton said, guiding him by the hand. The doctor examined the wound, saying: A bad gash, Im certain!- And begin cleaning the wound with cottons and antiseptics; then he begin stitching and sewing with care. He ends by applying a kind of translucent glue that formed a coat of over the wound. There! In three days the coating will fall apart, but if the wound looks too dark, just call me back. Im Doctor Fallor; pay me now.- Said the old doctor. Foren pays him, saying: come here tomorrow, doctor! I want you to see our Captain again. All right! I will be here, at the same hour. Attention! If you are not here, I will ask the fee just the same.- Doctor Fallor said, leaving the suite. Daron felt himself exhausted, and said so. Raneton replied: Well, guess its enough for tonight! I will go to sleep! Me too!- Arkilo said, departing from the suite. Daron saw how his two Electronic Creatures shut the door after them, and EC#49 approaches him, saying: Slept and rest, Sir. We will take care of 157 Your safety. If your body temperature climbs too much, we will take you to a Clinic. Are you in favor of that idea? Yes, its logical.- Daron replied. Some hours later, he awoke while Dr, Fallor was cleaning the wound. Nothing to worry about! You will be O.K. in a couple of days.- Dr. Fallor said. They tried to rob us.- Daron explained. Dr. Fallor moves his head, saying: Most common occurrence nowadays. A pity! In old times this things never happened! In old times a day had 25 hours and not six as in here! Perhaps that is enough to change the spirit of man, who knows?- Daron asked. Doctor Fallor went out, and Daron was attended by the two Electronic Creatures, that offer him to fly to the Freighter. No, I rather stay here! I wonder if Mr. Tupine has arrived. The Electronic Creatures were on direct communication with the Electronic Creatures on the space freighter, and said: No, Sir. No signs of Mr. Tupine yet. The natural men arrive to the suite, happy now to see his Captain recovering, and said: We are going to buy clothes, Captain! The ones we were using are stained. Of course- bring me some clothes to me, too.- He said, giving them some money. Daron felt stronger some hours later, and decided to go out shopping, with the two Electronic Creatures as bodyguards. 158 He was not going to wait for the crew members for to buy the new clothes he was looking now. The garments could radiate light in the darkness, and became common cloth in daylight. He founds it very attractive and bought five suits; the new anti G shoes provides up to a 35% less ground attraction, so the user could almost gallop by the streets without much effort.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer There were parks with meshes that permit to make incredible feats using that almost no gravity shoes. Some young women were there also, and he talks with a pair of them that were interested in his 2 Electronic Creatures to help them in carrying some valises but Daron said: They are not for hire. Are they really yours? One of them asked. Yes, they belong to my spaceship. Im a captain in vacations.- He said, rather proudly. Oh! So you travel far? - One of the ladies asked, who had a pair of beautiful green eyes. As far as Earth is concerned! My ship carries cargo and I am not exploring the Cosmos, but making deals.- Daron said. I am Erika- born in Earth! My father is Lismar, the friend of General Cofordes; soon he will be promoted, or so he said.- Erika said, rising his shoulders a bit. Daron looks on her chest, full breasts abides there. She said: I know you like me. Did I like you? Daron kissed her, and said: More than ever!- And she laughed, much to the chagrin of the other female that walked away with the valises. 159 Daron realize he was very interested in Erika, and offers her a trip on the Fliershe accepts, looking at him demonstrating she would had accepted any invitation from him- and so they climb on the Flier, with the Electronic Creatures guiding it. They fly over the city for the pleasure of it. Daron kissed those full lips once and again, feeling the hot breath of the woman like a breeze from the exotic equator jungles. Soon his hands were on her breasts, and the panting gives raise to open passion, that was half quenched there and then. The rest of that day they spent talking about themselves. Erika said she was trying to get into the Domicilium Army Forces, but with her background as Earth Woman, she had encounter only problems. 160 I have an important friend who could help you, in fact, is coming from another planetary system.- Daron said. Erika laughed, and said; you cannot imagine how many men had told me 161 That they could help me, but nothing has worked out until now.- She said, smiling. Daron also smiled- men promise whatever to obtain the favor of a dame. He wonders if she had given, or not, favors in the past. Sorry, dear, but I get to go, now. I had to dine with my father today.- She said, jumping out of the bed and giving a memory on Darons mind of a perfect white female body. She takes a shower, put on her clothes and said: Our affair has been good, dear. Dont spoil it with words. Bye. And departed, leaving him still in bed Daron wasnt much interested in begin a new day without her- so he stay there for half an hour more, remembering how good was their meeting. At last, he sighed and takes a shower, trying to erase everything also Erika- from his troubled mind. When he was putting on his clothes, the Electronic Creatures enter the bedroom, saying: you have two messages, Sir. Deliver them now.- He mumbled.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer First message: where are you, Captain? We have more women.- And the second message says: Mr. Tupine has arrived and waits you at the Seven Dwarfs Hotel, in Domicilium City. A reply would be thanked, appreciated. Signed: Secretary McDowell. mm! Secretary McDowell? Another one? I bet its another dry old man.- Daron mumbled out. Shall we send a message, Sir? - EC #48 asked. Certainly. Tell them Im coming.- Daron said, walking out of that room. 162 In his flier, he arrives to Mr. Tupines hotel- a nice small and expensive place. He asks for him at the Administration bench and the attendant looks on a holographic visor, saying: Captain Daron, you are well received- room 300. Thanks.- He said, walking to the elevator, followed by his two Electronic Creatures. When he rings on room #300, a beautiful woman opened the door, saying: Welcome, Mr. Daron Hinauer! I am Secretary McDowell. Daron opened his mouth, unable to answer. She looks at him with her golden eyes, saying; Are you well, Captain? Oh, yes! I expected another old Secretary, thats all!- He managed to say. Very funny! She said, smiling gently. He wonders if it was a natural woman, or one of that perfect mimicry of humans that the Bio engineers were making now. Inside the receiving room, Mr. Tupine was talking with two other men- dressed in military uniforms. When seeing him arrives, with the two Electronic Creatures, Mr. Tupine stands up and said: I present you the Captain Daron Hinauer! And his two Electronic Creatures. Daron bowed slightly, and said: Mr. Tupine, glad to see you again. Yes, me too! These military men are our friends here, and belong to the Organization: colonel Tyfo and General Taklas.- Mr. Tupine presents them. Glad to know you have good friends- I met a woman willing to work for the military- her name is Erika, and his father is Lismar, a friend of general Cofordes. She told me they are rejecting her because of his Earthian origin.Daron said, taking the chance to ask for aid in behalf of that love machine. The military looks surprised in front of this sudden outburst. 163 But Mr. Tupine was in control, and said: I am sure these persons will try to help your friend, captain Daron. We were talking about our future operations. Possibly the use of your freighter will be required- as a weapon carrier. A carrier to where? To Knapp- were invading, captain, and we wish you could contribute with your efforts and your freighter.- General Taklas said. Daron was not inclined to put his neck under the axe, but instead he said: Of course I will contribute in any effort you may design. Mr. Tupine said; I have great confidence on this gentleman! Soon the Army of President Jurgen Hidler will march unto and against the Knappian kingdom! We will recover the prestige we once had! They make a toast with Domicilium wine, and the soldiers left the room. Mr. Tupine said: As you already heard, Captain Daron, a great effort is being needed. The war must be won. Of course, Mr. Tupine. I will call on my crewmen and we will be ready to fightno matter if in the rear.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Indeed. I will give you an advance of 150.000 Credits. Perhaps you will be receiving weaponry and some dozen soldiers- the freighter must be reinforcedlaunchers of missiles, it will be an excitant time to live, I assure you!- Mr. Tupine said, while he make a deposit on Captain Darons Bank Account. 164 The captain leaves the Hotel with a grim face- he said to the Electronic Creatures: Call all men to my suite! We will be leaving Domicilium on the double! Yes, Sir. - EC #49 said, sending the message to Raneton, Arkilo and Foren. Daron went immediately to his Hotel room, to wait for the men. He seats in frong of the Holographic set, reading the last news- there were no sign of a departure- no signs of invasion. A normal world was shown on the news. Raneton arrives first, saying: what is this, Captain? Are we really departing? I guess its the best for us. The Domicilium Government is planning to attack the Knappian kingdom- I personally believe this is wrong, for several reasons. And we flee? I dont get it!Yes, because the military wants us carrying weaponry on the Gula. You already know what it feels to be traveling with weapons capable of to send the Gula to oblivion a million incandescent pieces- we included. I get it. You chicken!- Arkilo said. Well, I have doubts. A single missile hitting our hull, and well be providing the fireworks.- Daron reminded him. The rest of the crew arrives some time later, with evident marks of to have been drinking. Daron explained the situation again, and Arkilo said; But captain, you have good friends that are providing you of work! Lets do as they say, but 165 You must collect more money for your services! Lets take the money and with luck, we could expend it anywhere we like! Foren backed him up; so Daron realizes he was being overly suspicious of his luck, and said: All right, men! Ill ask for a huge stack of Credits! They cheered him up, and Daron finally said;: We will be waiting Mr. Tupines orders! The men went to their cabins, and he remained at the controls, with two Electronic Creatures at attention. Soon EC #48 appears coming with a lady, and said: Captain, she wants to talk with you. Very well, Im available.- Daron said, looking at the female, who was a very athletic- looking woman, who approaches him, kissing his cheek and saying: Wonders of wonders! I receive a communication from the Army, calling me for evaluation. I congratulate you.- He said, smiling. I knew it was you that made the trick! How do you do it, and so fast? - She said, embracing him- Daron felt her body pressing gently, and aspire her smell before saying: I talk with them not two hours ago!They called me one hour and half ago! Then I search for you- using the Holographic screen!- Erika said, kissing him with passion. Soon they were in the best of worlds... 166 Later, Daron said: When are you going to be interviewed? At noon! I have an hour to be there- not far from here.- She said, playing with his hair.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer I will let you my phone number! You can call me anytime you like.- She said, pointing to her hear- Daron realize she was using the new cell phones that were attached to the skin, and could be used as a second hear and a second tongue. He, by his part, has the standard device, like a packet of cigarettes. She was there ten more minutes; then she takes a three minutes shower, dry herself and put on her clothes. Bye, dear! We will meet again!- She said, going out. Daron remains there until his crewmen reappears, saying: Captain: if Mr. Tupine is going to fix our freighter before the departure, what is he waiting? The invasion of Knapp has no date until now. But I guess it will be not delay for much time. I dont want to call on Mr. Tupine- he has his schedule, and we must wait. Wait? There are dozens of ladies waiting out our door, and we must to wait in our rooms? - Raneton asked. No, of course! Just pay attention to your cellphone! The minute Mr. Tupine gives an order. I will call on you!- Daron said, who wasnt going to spoil their Vacations. Mr. Tupine calls at eighteen hours of that day saying: Captain Daron, we have the green light! 167 Orders come from the President Hidler himself! The spatial fleet needs more freighters. You are in the front line for this: your freighter must be brought to the spatial Army docks, where some innovations will be made. I wonder if I could use it later as a freighter, Mr Tupine.- Daron said, afraid that the engineers at the Army could dwarf and maimed the spaceship with which he trades. Mr. Tupine understood the inner thinking of Daron, and said: Be not worried about the freighter! They built spaceships- a mere refurbishing of your freighter will be easy for to make. Daron calls on his crewmates and in the Flier, with the two Electronic Creatures, abandoned the surface of the satellite and docks unto the freighter. Hows going, EC #50? All working fine, Sir. I have come news. Mr. Tupine is giving us a refurbishing of this vessel. You must cooperate with the spatial fleet engineers- some more appliances will be added to the Gula!- He said. Very well, Sir. Please take a seat and strap to it.- EC #50. Daron saw how the Electronic Creatures moved the freighter from its present orbit to the big huge docking system the spatial Forces had orbiting around Mundifico. 168 A colonel appears on the airlock, asking for him. Daron presents him as the Captain, and the military man shows him a holographic design, saying: Sir: I have orders here to proceed with certain modifications on your vessel. There is nothing to do with engines or general structure- it only has to do with the affixing of two cannon beans type C in front, and a photon cannon in the rear. Proceed, colonel!- Daron said, noticing the grade that man has showing on his collar, an eagle standing.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Very well. A bit of advice: you can remain here, or I could transfer you to the planet- the works will produce some kind of disorder and nose..- Colonel Rank said. Oh, no! I stay with my spaceship! I want to see what your men are going to do in here!- Daron said. Very well. My people will center now your freighter, to start working area is rather small the Colonel said. Four weeks they were on the Starfleet Docks the job was performed in a 99 per cent by EC people with Daron supervising the Army Fleet didnt spoil the rest of the circuits. The C Beam needs a log of power and Daron finds the military technicians wanted to drain the main power generator to start the firing so he complains 169 To Mr. Tupine, who finds the way to obtain a new power generator for the use of those weapons the bulk was so big it occupies two cargo hauls, much to the chagrin of Daron. Captain- the only variant is to put the generator on the outside of the hull- but a direct hit could provoke an explosion.- Colonel Rank mumbled out. So it was inside that the generator was put. It was tested and the C Beam was fired twice; a yellow streak of deathly vibration that was sensed on the Gula as a tremor. Now you can defend your spatial freighter, Captain Daron! I will leave three E.Cs. for the use of this weapons- any problem the cannon could present ,the Electronic Creatures will detect and if they cannot fix by themselves you just return to this dock.- Colonel Rank said, and departed with his team of technicians in a Fighter vessel. At last we are on our own! I wonder if we will ever need those cannons!- Foren said. I hopw we will be for ever at the rear.- Arkilo said. Mr. Tupine arrives to the Freighter with General Taklas and Colonel Tyfo; they were attended at the mess hall, with an earthy meal and some wine. I am glad to see you have new weapons, captain Daron. They told me you were satisfied with the work.- Mr. Tupine said. Yes, I am satisfied thanks to you, which obtained a new power generator for those cannons: the pity its that two cargo hauls house now 170 The power units and so, from eight cargo hauls available to host ammunition, now I can offer you just six.- Daron said. Certainly its a handicap.- Mr. Tupine said, looking at colonel Tyfo, who promptly said: But he could use a coupler, you can tow one or more trailer, if needed be! This freighter gives a maximum of Warp Six! Certainly ,traveling at Warp Five will not provoke much difference. Mr. Tupine turns his head towards Captain Daron, who said: towing trailers is feasible. It can be donned. Problem resolved! If the strategic Space Command wants more cargo to be carried by your freighter, they will be providing, then, the necessary carriers!Mr. Tupine said. Of course they will provide the carriers. It is a common occurrence.- General Taklas said, staring into Darons face.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer These gentlemen will stay here for some time, Captain Daron! Please attend them as if you were attending me!- Mr. Tupine said. Of course they will provide the carriers! It is a common occurrence.- General Taklas said, staring into Darons face. These gentlemen will stay here for some time, Captain Daron! Please attend them as if you were attending me!- Mr. Tupine said, handling some money to Daron, who looks at the cards- they were a thousand Credits electronic bills for deposit- seven of them. All I can say to you, Mr. Tupine, is that you can bring me guests, any time you like? _ Daron said, pocketing the seven thousand credits. After the lunch, they were given cabins- the EC s provided with blankets and towels, soap, shampoo, and teach the newcomers how to use the appliances available on those cabins. As the freighter was in 171 Orbit, all was very quiet and silent. Two hours later, Mr. Tupine said:- Of course, I appreciate your efforts, captain Daron. But I must leave- I received a message from Headquarters- President Hidler has a reunion and wanted me in it.I know you are an important person, Sir, and I am glad to be your helper.Daron said, Mr. Tupine puts a hand on his right shoulder, saying: Look on me as your friend, Captain Daron! We will be working at this enterprise with optimisms, and I am sure that at the end of it we will be rewarded. Hope we will, Mr. Tupine!- Daron said, with emotion. Mr. Tupine leaves the freighter in the same Hunter Flier that carries him in, and Daron was happy to have such a generous person as his friend. Four weeks later, they saw how the Armada of the Neongos paraded out of Domicilium Satellite; hundred of space crafts leaving the planet in columns. Great Army! Who knows how many will disappear in battle?- Daron said. We are overly optimistic, Captain! With these 32.000 spaceships, plus 17.240 that are already leaving this planetary system, we will conquer the enemy before their allies, the Federation from Brana I, could do to their defense.General Taklas said. They were at the main cabin, looking through the main screen. I thins we will be at the rear? Yes, a special order must be issued, first. They 172 Know where we are, and certainly you have a place in this epic scenery.Colonel Tyfo said. I wonder what we want from the Knappian.- Daron asked. Their planets and their moons! We will be governing them as long as we wished- perhaps for ever!- General Taklas said. Daron looks at him, sensing he was sure of his assertion, who knows? Perhaps the Knappian Army was not as strong as before- perhaps the surprise could do the trick- to win over a powerful kingdom. Our spies said nobody knows we are going to arrive there, to play havoc.Colonel Tyfo said. Daron didnt believe his hears! These two military men were confiding in a surprise attack! A message appears over the holographic set, saying: GULA MUST WAIT FOR DEPARTURE.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer So we must wait._ General Taklas said, secretly happy not to be traveling right away. Daron walked to the engine room, seeing Arkilo revised a circuit with two Electronic Creatures. When 173 Nearing, Arkilo said: You look gloomy, Captain! Here, we are working to improve some circuits. Of course! We knew of some upgrade on this kind of engines, and we are trying to update ourselves.- Arkilo said< Daron was not happy to know Arkilo was prone to work on apparatus without telling him first. We had to wait for more days, before we follow the Armada to war.- Daron said. Better, captain! More time for us to work on this circuits!- Arkilo said, happilynot concerned with war but with the engines. At the C Beam generators, the two Electronic Creatures from the military were there, standing at order. As the machine probably was never to be used, perhaps those two Electronic Creatures were there just to hypothetical use. Captain! A Message is received!- EC #50 said- Personal message, Sir, Cannot open. Right, Ill be there right away.- He said, walking to the first deck. The message gets to be opened placing his eyes on a visor. The message opens on a small rectangle at the holographic set for his eyes only, as they say. The message was written by Erika. Her figure was there, with sound. Hi, dear! Recently promoted as special military agent. Assignment: Knapp! Im going there on a merchant spaceship. 174 Seek me at Oredloro. Love, Erika. Daron smiled- Erika, an agent! Possibly the military people were sending her because of her beauty- to introduce herself in high spheres, where govern secrets abounds. The queer request was that she was asking him to find her at Oredloro! If she sent the message to the Freighter Gula, she also should know theres ample certainty he will never set foot on Knapp! Women!- He mumbled out, dismissing Erikas request as impossible. The day passed, and he went to sleep. EC #48 was at the door, guarding his sleep- not on the corridor, but inside the cabin, with orders to stop anyone who could want to get inside. Daron didnt trust the military men (trained to kill) as the freighter could easily belong to the Army if he dies Two days more on the orbit, and no signs of movement on it. Daron was puzzled- cargo should have arrived, and it was not. Perhaps they are making the weapons in this instant! Soon they will be here.Raneton said. Daron was with his three natural crewmen, on the mess hall, no military in sight. Possibly. In any case, we are seated here with no assignment! Nobody saying we are going to be paid.- Daron said, sipping at his drink. 175 A ring resounds and the voice of EC #50 said: Incoming vessel! Captain, please report to the Bridge. Im coming.- Daron said, leaving his crew staring at him.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Soon the visitors enter to the air lock and Daron saw Mr. Tupine among military men and a couple of civilians. Much to his surprise, one of the civilians looks like President Jurgen Hidler. Mr. Tupine approaches him, saying: Good news, Captain Daron! You will be traveling towards Knappian with our President Hidler! Hidler approaches and salutes him with a handshake, saying: Sorry to impose our presence unto you and your crew, Captain! But the moment obliges us. It is a great honor to have you on board, President Hidler!- Daron said, reeling. Thanks, Captain! Perhaps you could supply a room for me and my men? We need to rest for a while.- Hidler said, and Daron ordered his Electronic Creatures, to guide them to suitable cabins. When out of the Presidents presence, Mr. Tupine said; You are being most honored for this choosing! President Hidler wants to see the battles ahead! But at a certain distance an with some high degree of safety. Of course. But, cargo? Nothing of it?- Daron asked. Yes, its coming! Nukes, bombs, a dozen Electronic Creatures!- Mr. Tupine said. Please, come to your cabin, Mr. Tupine! You look 176 Tired. - Daron said, guiding him to one of the best cabins at the Freighter- he also appointed EC #40 as his Assistant. At the main deck, Colonel Tyfo was waiting him to say: we have a grave responsibility, Captain Daron! The President Hidler is the head of the invasion as well as the Governor of our country. I guess I can be aware of this you are saying, Colonel Tyfo! Cargo is comingyou could help us when this begin to happen- as military.- Aron said, dryly. Colonel Tyfo jumped out, so Daron believes he was going to give a hand. We had a worst kind of ammunition, Captain! The big man himself! Who could had thought of this?- Raneton said, meaning the responsibility was great having the head of the government on board of this not appropriate in war time vessel. Yes, we are walking among land mines.- Daron said, looking insecure. Four days later, he was more than worried. A large Cruiser was connected with the Gula Freighter, and many important persons were coming to see the President and receive orders from him. The food was no problem- all was donned thanks to a couple of main points: 1) The President Hidler eats common food and in scant quantities, and 2) the food processor provides for any food they want and in any quantity required- that was so, because of the waste disposals were huge, with so many visitors! 177 The weapons were storage at the hauls and before departing to Knapp planetary system, a new designed spaceship appears next to the freighter; some officers dressed in black uniforms where some small insignias were shown the resembled of two letters S shines in silver color. : This is the personal guard of President Hidler.- Mr. Tupine murmured next to Darons hears. I wonder if they are going to take him out on that silvery vessel.- Daron said, amused. Two days more, and the freighter begin to accelerate- the big cruiser to the right, the silvery vessel to the left- and president Hidler looking the departure

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer from one of the big scenario rooms, that were, in fact, ecological hauls for to carry living trees and plants- some of them in use as hydroponics farms.: We certainly leave this satellite for a better destiny! Wish this moment could be recorded for the future generations to remember!- Jurgen Hidler said. They certainly looks on you as their hero, Sir.- General Cofordes said. We will recover what was ours, and more.- General Taklas said, between clenched teeth. Later, the President asked to be left in a cryogenic pod, much to the surprise of everyone. The Electronic Creatures prepare the pod, and soon he was inside, heavily guarded. He said we must awake him when nearing Knappian planetary system.Colonel Tyfo said. 178 This old freighter will take a lot of time to arrive there!- General Cofordes said. Warp 5 is not too much, indeed, And we must make a Brana Jump! Colonel Tyfo said, worried. Captain Daron said: we will make the Brana jump in three hours from now, Sirs! My Electronic Creatures are calculating a nice jump, one that could make us appear very near Knapp planet.| I wonder if you had ever been there, Captain!- General Cofordes said. Several times, Sir My EC had expertise in this kind of flights.- Daron boasted out. The spaceship arrives at last where the optimal conditions exist in order to make the Jump through Branas. They appear on Brana 2, planetary System Knapp. Time for arrival, five months.- The EC# 44 said. Colonel Tyfo grew pale, saying: Morons! How could you miss your point of apparition by so many Electronic Creatures! Look where we are now! General Cofordes walked in to the room, saying: And, are we there now?Five months of travel at Warp 5, and well be there, General. Thanks to this faulty Electronic Creatures !- colonel Tyfo said. The cruiser and the private spaceship are not in sight. Where could they be?; Colonel ! --Tyfo asked. The cruiser and the private spaceship are not in sight, where could they be?Colonel Tyfo asked. Probably much closer to the Knappian realm! 179 Who knows how much they are going to delay trying to contact us!- General Cofordes exclaimed. Daron went to the engine room, where Arkilo asked: why do you have that worried face, Captain? We are five months away from our target! The military men are furious! Their leader is far from being on schedule.- Daron informed. Do you think that they could put us in jail, because of this misplacement?Arkilo asked, and Mr. Tupine overheard it and said, vehemently: Of course not! It was nobodys fault! The traversing of big objects by the Branas are never very accurate! I am sorry for this, Mr. Tupine! The President Hidler will be mad at you._ Daron said. Why me? He chooses to travel in a small freighter!- Mr. Tupine said, looking at the engines working at full capacity.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer The sound of the alarm alerted them; the voice of EC #50 said: Captain to the bridge immediately!Daron went there as fast he could, and saw by the holographic set, a silvery object coming fast from the profundities of space. Hail them!- He asked to Forum They are ours, Captain! The private spaceship of our President Hidler!- Foren said. Good to know it! Tell them we are all right.- Daron sighed with relief. They are going to dock!Of course, let them come in.- Daron said, looking how the fast spaceship turns around and dock on port number eight, with a swiftness that gives the creeps. 180 Mr. Tupine went there to receive them and show how asleep the President was. Colonel Tyfo asked for a meeting at the mess hall- so captain Daron went there, to see Major Valdan (from the chromed spaceship) and general Taklas, General Cofordes, Colonel Tyfo, Mr. Tupine (who has a grim face). We have a situation here!- General Cofordes said: this space freighter appears too far from our target! I come from the vicinity of Knapp Planetary system: our Armada was silently approaching to the outermost planet (V). By now, an hour later, they must be engaged in battle.- Major Valdan said. :Our president must be consulted! Awaken he must be!- General Taklas said. I am of the same opinion.- Colonel Tyfo said, and so Daron gives the order to wake the President Hidler without delay. Half an hour later, Hidler was traversing the pneumatic tube that connected the freighter with the private hunter spaceship, followed by the Generals. Mr. Tupine had received orders, and so he approaches Captain Daron, saying: President Hidler give me orders, Captain: you will keep on to Knappian planetary system in the same course you have now. Any damaged spaceship will arrive to your vicinity, and the wounded will be attended here. Of course, Sir.- Daron said, wondering in which kind of hell those space warriors could be struggling right now. I am going with them. Have a good trip, Captain Daron.- Mr. Tupine said, leaving the main cabin. 181 The silver spaceship disappears in the dark at great velocity. Were on our own?- Captain Daron asked of EC #50. Yes, Sir. The generals, Colonels and Majors went away with the President Hidler.- EC #50 replied. Daron seats at his post, saying: Well, hope we could arrive in time to see how those Knappian surrenders to our President! A week later, they begin receiving radio messages as well as holographic scenes. The Knappian were indeed taken by surprise- the delay in receiving the images could not tell them how the war keeps going on, but at least, they start winning. Good for our military space troops!- Daron said, while they were having lunch. Yes! Long life to our President Hidler!- Raneton said. Who knows how long their lives could be? Knappian fleet is no joke!- Foren said. And we dont know if there are warships around there! We cannot begin a war with Starfleet!-

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Yes, that is why I sometimes wonder what we are thinking about! The Knappian dont belong to our Brana 2 Alliance! They preferred to be colluded with those people from Brana One!= Arkilo said. Its their king! Thats the bad thing with kings- a lonely man orders and millions obey, without giving their saying! Its not fair.- Foren remarked dryly. 182 Sure! Democracy is better?- Raneton asked him. Well- you choose from certain persons- at least they must go after their term!Foren said. Right! If they are worthless, people refuse to back them any more.- Arkilo said. Daron went to the main cabin, and soon he was staring a bell shaped object. Did we fire against the object, Sir?- EC #48 asked him. No. Hail them, Foren!- Daron said, not sure yet if that dark and strange object was a spaceship or some kind of derelict. But from the derelict they answered, and soon the strange vehicle, like a bell, gets attached by cables to the side of the Freighter. The Electronic Creatures connected a loose pneumatic tube to the airlock of the Bell, and that was the way their occupants use to traverse to the Freighter. By the time that the job was finally donned (two hours) Doran was very interested in to see who were those persons- friends or foes. He receives them at the airlock, and was surprised to see people using long coats of fur instead of modern space suits and airtight helmets. Welcome to the Gula Freighter! I am captain Daron. - Said he. A tall man on his fifties pulled back his hood and said: Glad to be aboard, Captain Daron! I am Martin Gomez! This is my crew: my wife, Myrna Lower, my daughters Tina and Mariella- this is doctor Farthom Climbor 8, and 183 Mr. Silvio Stephens, scientist. We are in a trip of exploration and adventure! We pretend to make a film out of this voyage- perhaps also a book. Daron smiled; sure the poor man wasnt aware of where he was getting into! He said: I am traveling to Knapp. And you? Yes, thats the general idea! Not that we love to see more cities, coming from Mars, but for those magnificent beasts they had there- the dinosaurs!- Mr. Gomez said. Daron invited them to seat and eat something at the mess hall. As the temperature inside the Gula was regulated up to eighteen Centigrade, the visitors takes off their overcoats, and seats there to talk. Both the sisters were young females with superb bodies, tall and with white skins; and the wife, Myrna Lower, had a perfect body too. The three women had the same fine features and were pretty to look at. This ship is really huge! Like an asteroid!- Tina Gomez said, looking around. EC #42 serves them hot food, beverages and pieces of bread. A freighter is a big thing, of course. But there are bigger ones, lady. This Gula space freighter its only middle size.- Daron exclaimed. The green eyes of the woman were really beautiful. And EC appears, saying: Message from the mother ship, Sir. All right, Ill go see it.- Daron said, smiling to the puzzled visitors- Mr. Silvio Stephens 184 Exclaimed: Mother ship. Perhaps a big Freighter, indeed.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer At the main cabin, Daron was already reading the message, and it was short and to the point: To the Gula Freighter: We had encounter big resistance. President Hidler is missing. I recommend you to turn around and flee. Signed: Tupine. Daron felt his shoes as nailed on the plank; he looks on the EC #50, now at the controls, and said: Defeat. This means defeat. President Hidler is disappeared. I am being recommended to flee while I can. EC #50 said: Turning around will lead us to a star not reachable in the next two hundred years, Sir. I strongly recommend a better route: Aurean 6. Aurean VI? A giant star how many planets? Three, Sir. The last one has ice. We could land there- perhaps we could help the remaining forces from there. Using the Wagon Flier.- EC #50 said. Daron was sure that Aurean Six was not much desirable, but for the moment, it was sufficient OK, well be departing to Aurean Six- theres a suitable planet there.- He said to his crew and visitors. Pardon me, Sir, but we will be keeping our course to Knapp!- Martin Gomez said. There is a war going on, Sir. You dont want to be between Cruisers firing LASER cannons!- Daron said to him, much to the scare of the three ladies. A war? Against whom?- Silvio Stephens asked. We dont know for sure. But we have been warned- we are changing course, now. You are free to leave the Gula any time you like.- Daron said, and returned to the main deck. Mr. Martin Gomez talked with his wife and Mr. Silvio Stephens; it was clear that Gomez was the one willing to keep on going no matter what, and his wife and Mr. Silvio Stephens werent accepting his decision. We are not belligerent! We have nothing to worry about!- Mr. Gomez was saying. There are people warring out there! If we are not properly identified, they will shoot us for sure!- Mistress Myrna Lower said. Papa is right! We have nothing to fear of them! Just put some recorded warning on the radio, and they will know we are foreigners!- Tina Gomez said. They talked some more and majority wins- they will keep on traveling attached to the Freighter Gula. Daron gives orders to change course, and at top speed (Warp Six) they keep on towards the Aurean Six planet. The Bell shaped spaceship was a model BL 1956 that was able to travel through Branas. The engines provides warp drive thanks to internal nacelles, so there was scant space available for 186 The crew- apart from that, the five cryogenic pods were close to the inner center, so the interior was a real maze of small corridors and small rooms. Notwithstanding that, the Gomez family refuses to get cabins at the freighter, and so did Mr. Silvio Stephens. As the Bell was not having food processor, they only eat canned food. Mother! We are going to eat all the food we had just because dad is a proud gentleman! Why dont you ask Captain Daron about it? Food for us will be no problem for him!- Tina Gomez said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer She blushed and said: Do you think I am the one who must do the talk? Your father probably gets mad at me!Then, I will talk to him! I am not afraid- he seems to be a straight man!- Tina Gomez said. I will go with you! - Mariella said, adamantly. Myrna Lower, seeing her daughter decided to act, said: nothing of the sort! I will speak to him right away! And begin walking through the corridors of their Bell ship. Daron was at the engine room, looking at the indicators on the generator, when he saw Mistress Myrna with her daughter approaching. He looked at them, noticing he prefers the mother to look at, who was (also) a nice person. Good afternoon or whatever hour it is, Captain! I must talk to you about something.- She said, standing in front of him. Im all hears, Madam!- He said, with a kind smile. He was sure it wasnt too important an issue, or he would have Mr. Gomez there instead of her. Food! We are running out of it, and we wish to ask you for food! We could pay, of course.- Mistress Myrna said. 187 Of course, granted, Mistress Gomez. - Daron said, seeing how her beautiful eyes widened .She said: Thanks, but you must to ask for a payment- we have enough funds for that. I dont doubt you had, Madam. But, what were you eating at your spaceship? Canned food, water from a deposit. That certainly asks for a very large room to host! Have you no food processors? I dislike the idea to use those artifacts! I just simply could not eat my own processed wastes.- Myrna said, gasping, and her sisters chuckled a bit. Well, certainly tastes vary.- Daron said. And do you have food processors? Yes, we use that method. But then I will not use your food, of course! Come on, girls.- Myrna said. No, wait, Mistress Gomez! I have also food as an alternative! I told you what: I am also reticent to processed food. Really? Yes! You could have your first lunch with me, to see Im not lying! Your daughters, I am certain, will accept my invitation too!- Daron said. When? In two hours more! We will lunch at the mess hall! Invite your husband and Mr. Silvio Stephens! I am sure you will not be disappointed.- Daron said. I will. Thanks you, Captain! Lets go, girls.- She said, walking out of the engine room. 188 Daron said to EC #40: Go and produce samples of food- potatoes, lettuce, artichoke, and five other species to show at our lunch of today. See that they look natural. Very well, Sir.- EC #40 replied, walking out to comply with that order. Arkilo said: Why do you want natural looking refurbished organic material? The visitors dont want to eat reconstituted food. But we dont have it in here. They had canned food- but scant.- Daron said. Arkilo made a grimace and said: In this epoch, even the Supermarkets are selling fake food.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Yes, but there are always people who wants the pure original food.- Daron said. Difficult task. Only hydroponics could provide that kind of food. Expensive and rare.- Arkilo said, thinking in the cities, but Daron knew that, in the colony worlds, natural food was the norm. At lunch, every Natural men and women were at the table and at the same time. The women to see if there was true what they heard from the lips of the captain; the Bell people to see if the food was edible, and the Natural crew to see on the faces of those women appears or not the realization that they were eating natural food Oh! And this is the groceries!- Mistress Myrna Lower said, amazed. Natural foods were on a table, and an EC showing it one by one. They eat: a good lunch, without meat- not 189 Because the food processor could not do it, but because Mistress Myrna Lower would think: there are no animals in here, so its ersatz meat- ergo, all the food is fake. After the lunch, she said, looking at his husband: A very good meal, Captain! I thanks you for it, and if you accept, I will come to lunch every day from now on, until our arrival to civilization! Of course, Madam! I will be happy an honored when you and your group come here to eat. Mister Martin Gomez said: I also thanks you, Captain, and I am sure you will accept our gratitude and payment for your efforts. Thanks for your gratitude. Is difficult to find people that could thank from the heart. You and your family are now as members of our group.- Captain Daron said. The faces of that family were happy; while in the face of Mr. Silvio Stephens were the doubt. The crew knew his Captain, and were accepting those people as family- specially those beautiful women Then, Daron said: We must be traveling for about three more months. I am going to be cryiogenized , as well as my crew. You could be cryiogenized or not, depends on you. I detest the cryiogenizing processes. - Mistress Myrna Lower said, vehemently. Her daughters said: We prefer to go under deep sleep!~ Well be bored here in two days! Mister Martin Lower begin to say no, but then 190 He said: I wonder what are you going to do if the warring parties detect this vessel and decides to attack? I would prefer that the occurrence appears not. But in any case, our Synthetic person knows how to do and when to do it. We had a large cannon and missile throwers we are not a disarmed freighter.- Daron said. That night he and his crew went under the cryogenic procedures. The visitors were alone now, but the Electronic Creatures reminds on board, to protect the freighter of any threat. Eighth days later, Mr. Silvio asks to be cryiogenized; the rest follows him some six hours later realizing they could not be awake in so boring an environ. CHAPTER # 8.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer The arrival to Star Aurean Six and his three planets

191 The planetary system of Star Aurean VI and his three planets has a category M Star; the first two planets were huge masses of rock and stone, big orbs orbiting the giant star at 40 90 million kilometers of distance. The third planet was dwarfed by her sister planets- the size was 12756 kilometers in radius and has atmosphere, large seas and a climate suitable for life. The medium sized freighter arrives and orbited the planet in an equator circuit; Daron and the rest of the humans awoke and admired the planet from orbit. EC #43 said: Its a planet chastely clad in green forests and white clouds. Terraformed.- Daron said. I wonder why we humans have such a craving for new worlds, colonize and conquer others! They say its written on mans heart- this longing for non chartered suns.- Mistress Myrna Lower said. 192 Radio signals, Sir.- EC #40 said from the radio post- Foren was dormant. What did they say? Radio news, Sir. They are advertising products and giving news about their own behavior- There is an administration going on- its called the Yield. And they called themselves- what? The Albrasa people. Language as a Knappian original- many words are from that stock.- EC #40 said. Well, it figures! A colony from Knapp! Lets land near their city, Captain!Raneton said, at the pilots seat. All right, but well be testing their welcome! Send them a message first, EC #40. Tell them we are friends from a distant planet, and wishing to visit them for interchange goods and friendship.- Daron said. Goods, Sir? What goods? Our haul is full of weapons! Do you want them to became dangerous people?- Raneton asked, and Daron changes his mind, saying: Erase that word, EC #40! Reconsidered it. Tell them we come as friends only- no interchange. Sending. - EC #40 said, after realizing the audio file to export. Dr. Farthom Climbor 8, who was silent almost all of the time, said: Certainly this planet is a beautiful place to live. Humanity is spreading like a plague throughout all of the Cosmos! It begins at the so called Center of the Universe, the Milky Way. Then to NGC 6822, M 110, Andromeda Galaxy, Triangulum Galaxy, Andromeda I, II, and III, and so many places that they just take a peek and go to another star! If we could put a couple of humans on the ground of every suitable planet of those millions of stars, we would see there were infinite more worlds than available couples! Raneton said: Suitable place ahead, Sir. Descending!- And he was mimicking the way to speak of an EC. 193 They all strap to their seats- the Freighter Gula descended and landed on a side of the alien city. The turmoil was great; the air column wiped the terrain as a sledgehammer; threes were blown apart and the dirt was flying sky high for half an hour.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer At last, the big spaceship was grounded and the Electronic Creatures went outside of it, to scan the air and evil particles of life that could exist. Noxious particles non existent. There are no living things in the vicinity. Descend you could.- EC #43 radioed to the main cabin. All right, we could go out. Dont walk too far.- He recommended to the crew and passengers. There was a rush of people leaving the Freighter by the airlock for passengersa nice long ramp went down to the ground providing the necessary means to descend without broking their necks. The air is dry!- Mistress Myrna Lower said. Its our fault! Look how our descent has 194 Left this place! Not even a rock in place standing!- His husband retorted immediately. The city was some two kilometers away and there was nobody in sight to talk to. Ask EC#40 about radio reports from the city, EC #50!- Daron said to the mechanical man at his side- he had seventeen Electronic Creatures on the ground, just in case of any dangerous approach. The test was under way- several Electronic Creatures were approaching the city at full run- their eyes and ears were recording everything, and they had open communication with the rest at the Freighter. EC #50 said: they had seen humanoids running with pertinences to the city! Several vehicles are arriving to the city gates! Its a walled city! Inexpugnable! Unless you fire a missile against them.- EC #50 replied. I havent arrived as a conqueror but as a friend! Also, our army its only 20 persons strong! No! We will wait and ask for a rendezvous with the Governor!Daron said. But by radio was going to have the solution: they broadcast a large harangue to their own people, ending with an invitation to parley with the ones who had arrived to terrorize the pacific populace. Daron exclaimed: here it is our chance! I will send them a message, too! Yes, captain! Convince them we dont come for gold and beautiful ladies!Raneton said, optimistically. 195 Daron choose a nice discourse brought from the database, one of the standard models when finding a new civilization- this, of course, was not an unknown civilization as they were speaking a known language. The answer to his speech produce wonders; from the city arrives a throng of people with happy faces; Daron descended with ten Electronic Creatures and the whole group of humans. Greetings! I am Sukor, the Administrator! Welcome to our planet!- Said a green clad man in his sixties; he was tall and uses pants, shoes, shirt and that toga- like green cloth. Thanks you! I am Captain Daron from the Gula freighter! We come in peace!- Daron said, while everyone was listening. Welcome to our country, Captain Daron! Since five years now that we havent seen any spaceship coming! So allow us to invite you to the city: the people want to see you all!- Administrator Sukor said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Daron accepted; Raneton and Arkilo refused and the rest went with him to the city; the Gomez family taking pictures and filming everything. The city has a big wall made of concrete and rocks in the base; has two metallic doors; above the walls runs a corridor where soldiers could see to the distance. The square blocks of houses filled the space between the walls that formed a rectangle, with one side to the west. Daron realize there was poverty; many a man didnt have shoes, and the females wore rustic clothes. The town hall was two stories high, with 196 A wide place where to have reunions; there they went, and the Administrator Sukor begin an elaborate discourse of welcome. Daron realize they were expecting several things from them, so he discover, in an easy way, why all the joy of the people. Certainly he has only food and ammunition to give them- perhaps some clothes- and that was all, because the objective of his travel wasnt arriving there with any help. Mistress Myrna Lower also speaks, in a delicate voice, enchanting the assembly with her natural charm. She also gave further details of their trip and how they were saved from dear peril at deep space, by the now almost heroic Captain Daron, to whom she looked at in several occasions- he understood very well the meaning she has in transforming him in a brave hero: to get the sympathy of those people and doing so, became well received in all circles. Myrna appealed to the natives for friendship and cooperation. They all applauded her for several minutes, and the lady blushed with joy. From there, they were guided to a less big building two stories high; there was a kitchen with lots of cooks; they begin to roast pig-like bodies on the fire of their ovens; soon they brought vegetables and fruits to a table existent on the second floor. Everyone drinks a mild beer, and groups of conversation begin to appear among 197 Natives and members of the spaceship. Daron explained again about their trek, but not telling the real cargo he was carrying. Pressed by the Administrator, he said that the cargo was mainly mechanical spare parts without much use for his town. And of course, in due time, I will deliver the goods at planet Knapp, as it is my honest obligation. We understand you, captain Daron! But how long do you think a war could last? Not a few days, I am afraid!- Administrator Sukor said. This time weapons are terrible I was forced to take a C Beam cannon on board, that I would like to reap apart. It could be given to your community; the charge must be provided by a generator the size of the precedent room in where we were.- Daron said. Oh, in serious? You could really donate it to us?- The Administrator Sukor asked. Yes. For me is a cause of distress. I dont know who will be the winner. If it is the faction that puts it into my vessel, or the enemy of them.- Daron explained.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Doctor Farthom Climbor had a spell on a group of natives, explaining them the scope of their travel- to let the civilized worlds know how far away colonies lives in the fringes of the known universe. A lady, using an elaborate hair-do, said: I am Fanar Tarra, the Director of the Ministry of Flora and Fauna! We have a very pernicious animal hunting very near to this city and around this whole continent. 198 Dont tell me? True? And which kind of animal is this?- Dr. Farthom asks. A feathered reptile. They are the size of a human; their retractable claws had mordacious venom, capable of to kill a man or a beast in minutes. Fiercely territorial, they stick to their places until they win or die.- Said she, who was a very interesting woman in her forties. I will pursue the trail of them! Surely a LASER blast will keep them at bay!Doctor Farthom Climbor said. Certainly it does, but we run out of those weapons five years ago.- The lady said. We use personal shields when the need of fruits and timber pushes us outside our walls. Another lady said, this a robust female in her twenties. She adds: Im Rogana, daughter of Administrator Sukor. Glad to meet you, lady. I wonder if there are more creatures in the wild worth of mentioning.- Dr. Farthom said, remembering the old Chupacabras (Goatsucker). We had several Fliers; they can fly using Disruptive Magnetic Force Field (DMFF) for power, capable of traveling across land or water. They can reach outer space from the ground of a planet in five minutes.- Doctor Farthom said. The government has three of them! There is another four of them in bad shape- they run out of service while in flight.- Rogana said. 199 -What a pity! The pilots? They are all dead. One of them was my uncle Torobon.- She said. But I remember the Fliers had an alarm- did that failed to advice them- Dr. Farthom asked. Rogana approaches the Doctor, almost pushing him with her pair of well developed breast, and said: Of course there was an alarm! But as you could keep flying 1, 2, 3 times after being warned, we all thought it was a risk well deserved to ignore! Some of the flights were very urgent and important! During the afternoon, they were shown the city on foot, talking with the people, who very seldom were asking them for shoes, clothes or exotic food, they know was existent in other mover civilized worlds. Daron was well aware that if he could had installed a Replicator on board, he would had given them what they need, but Replicator were high priced and he has not one at the Freighter Gula. A thin man with a beard raises his hand to obtain silence, and said: I am the Librarian. We used to have machines to read and write, but they had all succumbed and now they are only a memory. What a pity! I think we could provide you with a new one.- Doctor Farthom said. And we had been writing old tales just to offer the new generations what were those books to tell what man is.- The Librarian finished saying. 200

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer At night, once back at the Freighter, with a guard of Electronic Creatures outside. Daron had his dinner with the rest of the Natural men and Natural women. Daron said: First contact has been quite successful. The natives are, in fact, Knappian originated. Their history said that Mundifico sent here four spaceships with colonizers, and after that, a regular interchange of goods had been practicing- but that in the past four years, no spaceship has come in. Perhaps, and its one of my ideas only, the new King in Knapp ignores this people are here.- Daron said. Or perhaps they arent interested in this small colony anymore.- Raneton said. This world has potential! It has water, breathable air, forests- apart of that animal they detest- theres no other dangerous species here!- Dr. Farthom said. Thats a fact! We could colonize this planet for the Neongos! - Daron said, but remembering the war, he added: It would be good to see who wins the war! Do you think its over by now?- Arkilo asked him. It must had finished, for good or for worst! If we depart now, I am sure Mr. Martin Gomez will stay here filming?- Daron asked. Of course! As you said, raising our lives going to Knapp so soon is pointless!Mr. Martin Gomez said, looking at Myrna, who accented with a movement of her head. I pretend to leave you here. I will travel on the Wagon Flier- is capable of great feasts! 201 And enough small not to rouse any suspicion of reinforces.- Daron said. You are a brave man. I wish you luck.- Myrna Lower said, while her daughters interchanged looks of surprise Daron prepares the Wagon Flier and hours later, he enters the vessel with three Electronic Creatures and Foren who volunteered. Just you and I, Captain! You will see how we are going to succeed! I am the luckiest man there is!- He said. Daron ordered a course to the Knappian planetary system, and stayed at the main cabin, looking tense. The maximum velocity was only Warp 2, but he didnt despair: at least, he didnt going to land on Knapp1 Only a peek at planet V whereabouts- and that would be all. The space looked empty- Daron has EC #41 on the radar screen and radio communicator. The days pass slowly. Daron slept most of the time, while Foren reads or play on the Holographic set. The Electronic Creatures runs the spaceship, scanning the vicinity with the radar and listening to radiobroadcast- if any. Three weeks later, they heard voices in the radio. Knappian voices.- EC#41 said, and Daron grew pale. That was not good news! They copy, and play what was saying at the Holographic set, much to the chagrin of Mr. Foren, who wasnt at all afraid of the Army. They cannot harm us, Captain! We are innocent bystanders! Daron wasnt so sure, but accept it as a geological truth 202

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer The voices receded and there was again the silence of space. Daron reads the transcripts with care. They were reports of damages and a list of natural men death. But not an insinuation of which side was the winner. Must have been an incoming vessel, Sir. We are nearing the hot spot!- Foren said. Days later, they found pieces of a space ship scattered along a radius of cubic 2 kilometers. The Electronic Creatures fished for objects during six days- the recovery parts shows it had been a Freighter from the Knappian. Missiles could do this, Captain. They explode, it was not sliced.- Foren said, kneeled among the remains. They throw the remains out and keep on traveling at Warp 2. Suddenly, three big spaceships traversed in front of them the landscape, and were gone. Knappian vessels, Sir. Some communication between them was recorded. They were saying enemy in coordinates XRI- 10s- XUR- 22.5 Our ships! Well, hope they are smart enough to detect these blackbirds.Daron said. The Knappian planetary system was still very far. The Warp 2 really was very slow for that mission. When Daron was about to give the order to go back, and one of the spaceships moves to its side; several dozen spacemen arrives to the airlock, and Daron o0pens the hatch for them 203 To come in. The senior of them, a captain, looks on both natural men and said: who are you, people? Members of a space freighter, Sir! We are trying to reach some planet on this wagon flier.Which is your name?- The man asked, with a hard look. Captain Doran Hinauer, Sir. A man at his side said: The Captain of the Gula space freighter. He is telling the truth, Captain Tabor. Well see. Where is your Freighter?- - The man asked, and Daron said: At Aurean VI, Commander. We have plenty of ammunition there. Confirmed.- The other man said, so Daron was sure now that it was an AB soldier. Very well! We need ammunition! Attach your pathetic vessel to our Cruiser! We will be traveling to Aurean VI!- The Captain Tabor said. In scant 20 minutes, the Wagon Flier was docked unto the big Cruiser, and with them at some cabins, the vessel speeded up to Aurean VI, arriving there in six days. By that time, Daron and Foren were friends of many a space warrior, and their pool of information was as good as any other soldier in the Domicilium Fleet. They found the Freighter at the same spot, and the crew in their post- only that the scientific team was at the walled city since Darons departure. Call them here! They know about the Freighter!- The commander Tabor saidand some Electronic Creatures 204 Went to the city for them- also five soldiers. Captain Tabor said: This is a nice planet- but not around your Freighter, captain! It seems that you erase every plant around your ship!

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Yes, Captain Tabor! It was because here the landing was very rude- but there was nothing else to do! The enormous weight of the vessel requires a lot of thrust not to bang against the ground!- Daron explained the obvious. After a while, the group returned saying that the tourists werent at the city, but had departed in an exploratory mission to the woods. This is a grave problem!- Captain Tabor said, and sent two personal Fliers to explore the woods, much to the amusement of Daron, who was sure it was like to find a needle in a stack of hay. Four days later, and as the military men didnt find any clues about the tourists, the captain Tabor ordered the take off. We will be approaching the sector in four days.- He said, having more news about the development of the battles. I wonder who is winning.- Daron asked. Ours, of course! Anyone who thinks otherwise must be called a traitor!Captain Tabor expressed, looking at the men in front- they were on the surroundings of the Holographic set, having that virtual meeting. I wonder where you get your lessons in logic, captain Tabor! - Daron said, and smiles sprout out on many lips- they knew Tabor was a self appointed fanatic. 205 Later, they found many a debris floating dangerously on their path; they could not stop to see to whom belongs it, as fiery rays and explosions begin to appear ahead of the. Soon they saw the huge cruisers and battleships firing missiles and other weapons to one another. A huge explosion occurs when the Tabors cruiser was hit; half of it was separated from the rest, and the air gushed out like vapor. Goodbye, Tabor!- Daron said, seeing how the Cruiser begins to rip apart under more firing. We are being targeted!- EC #40 said, looking at his console. Fire the C- beam!- Daron yelled, and the two Electronic Creatures at the cannon fired it instantaneously. The cannon throw the deadly river of hungry molecules, hitting the dangerous enemy that explodes in a million pieces. Hurrah!- The natural crewmen said, as they were watching the exterior by the external cameras. Speed up!- Daron said, and Warp Six was attained. The fight was left behind, and they were nearing the Knappian frontier: the dark mass of the V planet loomed above them. They are hailing us from the Orbital Station, captain. They are Knappian people.- Foren said. Dont answer! C-beam against them!- Daron ordered, finding out this was his moment of glory! While the big Armies were fighting, he on his medium sized space freighter has passed through the lines barely molested! Fire at will!- He yelled, seeing the Electronic Creatures were delayed 206 The C- beam was fired; the orbital station, which was reinforced with weaponry, catches fire and exploded so violently that the whole sky seems to have transformed on a cup of milk- when that luminosity was good, there was not a bit of the proud orbital station at planet V! Hurrah!- The men yelled, with Daron saying: that was a lucky shot! Whos next?

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Keep on fighting, captain! Perhaps we could make the difference!- Raneton said. Its a pity we must secure our future by killing.- Daron said. Who cares, Captain? Think what this race of greedy people makes with our planet! It is revenge, captain! Or else, they will find us in Domicilium and finish his extermination works!- Foren said. Daron gives order to keep on going to planet IV, regretting that they hasnt the cloaking device some other races had for their safety. Some carriers were flying to planet V, and Raneton said: They will have a big surprise when arriving there! Soon planet IV was in sight. Two battle ships were orbiting it; Daron asked: At what distance our C Beam is able to hit and destroy? 800 kilometers, Sir. Five minutes more.- EC BC 246 replied, who was one of the two military Electronic Creatures in charge of that weapon. And our missiles? From any distance, Sir. But they could be spotted if the distance is much. We could fire them together with the C Beam, sir.- EC BC 246 explains. 207 One of the battleships is beginning to move, Sir. Seems that they scanned us.Prepare the C Beam!C Beam always in position, Sir. Optimal distance is not already achieved.- EC BC 246 said. Attention! They are hailing us!- Foren said. Tell them we are from Knapp! Donned. They are looking at our flight permission number; surely you have all OK., captain!- Foren asked. All chip chap! But the license its Domicilium originated- that will put them on red alert.- Daron said. Optimal distance achieved, Sir. Fire at will.- The EC BC 246 said, and they feel the buzzing of the generators reaching fire power level. The fiery ray hits mid astern and the battleship moves back, spurting fire. Again the buzzing and the C Beam hit the second battle cruiser, which simply was cut in half, with no explosion whatsoever. Missiles incoming!- Foren yelled, looking at the screen. The C beam was fired, hitting the incoming missiles in mid distance- the explosion lit the sky. More C Beams hits again the battle cruiser that explodes sending debris everywhere- some of the metallic chunks hit the hull. They orbited planet IV. There are some mining facilities down there, captain. Did we shoot at them?Raneton asked. Not needed. They cannot fly.- He said, chuckling at his own answer. We are approaching to Planet III and they surely they had towers 208 capable of to reach this freighter, Captain. And more than one battleship.Arkilo said, very nervous. Sure thing.- Daron said, who had already thought about it. We should try, at least! We are lucky today.- Foren said, very sure about that fact. Prow to planet III! - Daron said, looking at the consoles.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Raneton guides the freighter, near the planet Knapp. They scanned lots of cruisers running around. Changing course, Captain! Lowering velocity. Warp 2 now. They will not suspect of an old freighter crawling by.- Raneton said. They keep on traveling, leaving planet IV behind. We made it!- Foren said, happily. Lets see. Four big spaceships around planet III. No way could we repeat our victories here.- Daron said. We could smash two of them, by surprise! The other two will follow us.- Arkilo said. Daron think about it, saying: We will shoot at two of them, and then we will give a jump! They all stared at him in surprise. Then, Foren said: Right! Its all we could do around here! We already give a hand to our nation!They fired the C Beam repeatedly; the battleships sustained the fire, with minor damages, as they had their shields up. Missiles out!- EC BC 246, and while doing it, a C Beam passed very near the 209 prow. Change course! We move from here!- Daron said to Raneton, who pressed the button for the Jump of Branas- soon they were on Brana one. Position?- Daron asked. Wait a minute for the computing, captain! But who cares where we are? The enemy was left behind!- Raneton said, happily. After the study of the stars, they found they were just four parsecs away from Aquarii Beta, and they hasten the engines to arrive there as soon as possible. That means four weeks. Nobody went into deep freeze, as they were very excited looking once and again the videos of his accomplished task. CHAPTER # 9. APPROACHING DOMICILIUM SATELLITE. At the vicinity of Domicilium satellite, four hunter spaceships appear with no notice, and then they hailed them. Who are you and whats your business here?- A voice resounded by the microphones. This is space freighter Gula, armed by the Domicilium government! We are retuning from Knapp.- Foren replied. Soon several humans come aboard through the airlock. One of them was captain Furak, an old space sailor; he said: Well, I will be damned- you are back from the war in one piece! You can bet we are, oldie! - Foren said, smiling. Captain Daron said: We are worried about President Hidler and the rest of this staff. Do you know what had become of them? 210 No, captain! Messages are forbidden during the war. We are patrolling the space around our world, only.- Captain Furak said. I have big news for whoever is in command.- Daron said. You can tell me.- Captain Furak promptly said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Of course. I will tell you if you want, but also I want to speak to whoever is in command.- Daron repeated. Is Admiral Toronkei, Sir. Now tell me.- Captain Furak said. Daron told him what they had donned at the Knappian planetary system, and also with films. Captain Furak was changedfrom a grim officer to a happy man- he almost yelled: You are a hero, captain! I will sent notice of all of this right away!- And he departed from the freighter with all his men. We will be famous.- Foren said. I wonder.- Arkilo said, thinking his feat was going to be diminished by the envious people. They circumnavigate the satellite a couple of times, and then captain Furak calls on them to say: All right, captain Daron! You can descend to the capital city: subrogate Governor Urotong will be receiving you today at nineteen hours! Very well, captain Furak! Thanks for your help.- Captain Daron said, and examining the different hours of the satellite, he found out it was twelve hours already on Domicilium city. We will go together! We are few, so 211 Theres no reason not to do so.- Daron said. _ The Electronic Creatures will be in charge here. Are we going ton the A or in the B Flier, Captain?- Foren asked, meaning the standard Flier of the Wagon Flier. The A Flier will do. No need to use a bigger one.- Daron said. But, captain! Remember we could use the Wagon Flier as a second house! The A Flier is only to bear passengers and little else more.- Arkilo said, with not small sense. Daron remember his own father, and that those who will not be directed by their parents, meet with ill success in their undertaking. All right, prepare the Wagon flier! EC #50! Repaint it, clean every part of it, perfume and change of rubbers! I want it shinning anew!- Daron ordered, and the Electronic Creatures begin to work in the Wagon, who was filthy, stained, smelly, with some parts of the pope burned out and dirty. In seventy eight minutes the Wagon Flier became a new vessel- every corner and surface painted grey, rubbers changed, burned out parts polished, painted and coated with varnish- the interior cleansed and perfumed as Daron ordered. Lets go, folks! Let us receive what destiny ordains! - Daron said, climbing the ladder to the Wagon Flier. They landed at the second platform of the Domicilium Space port, Pole 32. Many 212 Fliers were there, departing or landing, and when out of the wagon flier, in a taxi Flier they traveled to the Major Governmental House. At the gates, they were recognized and then guided to the interior of that building; at a wide room, they were told to wait. Nice reception! Nobody seems to care.Arkilo said. Wait! Perhaps they are going to give us the big banquet later!- Raneton scornfully said. Later they were called, and brought to an office where a plastic desk was posed at a side, with an old man seated behind it, and four chairs in front, where they seat after being told to seat by the guard that guided there. The man has a large head and he was almost hairless. His eyes shone and he said clearly: Welcome back to Domicilium!

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Thanks you, Sir.- Daron replied, not sure who was that man! The old man said: I am governor Urotong. I heard an account- that you destroyed starships in several worlds at the Knappian planetary system. Is it true? Our films and photos testify for us, Governor Urotong. Our space freighter also receives grave injuries and its orbiting now this world. We were provided with missiles and a C Beam cannon while President Hidler was in place. We use it and we used well.- Daron explained. 213 Governor Urotong said: I was testing you, of course. We are certain you did perform that act of courage. Thanks, Governor! We did it for the love of our countrymen- we dont want to loose this war, or else our enemies will come here and finish their evil work that almost wipes out us Neongos from the world of the living.- Daron explained. Governor Urotong replied: As your motives are honorable and veritable of the gratitude of our people, I declare you for spacemen, warriors in time of peril, honorable citizens of our community and deservers of to be of note on our history books. You had fought on a freighter, fought with much superior forces, erase them from existence, and when your own life was at stake, had come hack here to present the first notice we had of our war against the Knappian Kingdom. :I thank you in the name of my crew, governor Urotong.- Daron said, feeling himself elated. From that conversation on, every honor was given to the Heroes of the space freighter, as the Media begin to call them. Three weeks of festivities, lunches of honor, dines and ceremonies were bestowed unto them. Money was collected for their welfare small town invited them to give them houses on their community. Three weeks later, they were heavier, wealthier and happier as never before. At the fourth weeks they were invited to a reunion with 214 Admiral Toronkei at the War ministry building. They went there; sure they were going to receive some more medals. The reunion was attended also by seven Majors and captain Turak. They were all seated around an oblong table, with the light coming from the walls. At one extreme it was a holographic set, and at the other a map of the stars where Domicilium satellite occupied the center of the screen. When they enter, everyone stands up and applauded them. Then, the Admiral Toronkei said: welcome, heroes of our present war! We give you our thanks in the name of the Domicilium Starfleet! Thanks you, Admiral Toronkei; but we only did what we think was our duty.Daron said, repeating a phrase he had used many times in their previous encounters with grateful people. Please be seated, gentlemen!- Admiral Toronkei said. Then, he added: As you all know, the only news about the war was brought to us by you, Captain Daron, and your crew. Up to that, all we knew was that the war was being fought close to the Knappian Planetary system but not inside of it except , of course, your successful incursion , perhaps totally ignored by our space fleet, Daron realize he was guilt of not to have returned to the Second Brana to tell them- but that would had been to tempt the fate.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Now we had more news, and sadly, there are no major victories. Only skirmishes- the 215 Loss of many a battleship- and above all, the lost of one person that was vital for this war. I mean ; the very heart of our campaign. Daron grew pale could it be President Jurgen Hidler is dead. The terrible silence that ensued was like the profound silence of a tomb. Daron was sure the war was going to end- swiftly and rapidly, now that the leader of them all was dead. Its a terrible loss.- He heard himself saying. Admiral Toronkei accented with his head and said: A terrible loss indeed. There are but very few to know this horrible truth: Governor Urotong knew it first hand just a few hours ago. And I must tell you, gentlemen, its a secret of State our people must ignore, until the end of this war. Daron was sure that the people of the Satellite will be terrified with the news, if told. Everyone would be wanting to escape from Domicilium before the first spaceships appears coming from the sky. Commerce and industry will go plummeting to the ground. Chaos will be the word to describe life on Domicilium Satellite. Now! We must be brave and bold. Our space troops keeps on fighting- few of them knows the truth. Few of them will desert, and we must prevail! With great effort, we had built seven Cruisers and manned then with professors and students of our space Fleet Academy.- Admiral Toronkei boomed out. Daron was sure these troops were doomed 216 To defeat, but didnt open his mouth. A Major said: I am Major Fredal. My opinion its very simple: we need heroes to straighten consciences. You, captain Daron, are one of our first heroes in this campaign. You could lead our reinforcements to victory! There was a profound silence broken by Major Alparme, who said: Certainly with a title in our space fleet not a phony title, but a real one. Thanks you, but- Daron was saying, and Admiral Toronkei interrupted him by saying: You dont have to decide right away! You have time to decide. You would be nominated as Admiral of the Second Fleet- the reinforcement. As you are well aware, strategies must be learnt, capacities of our cruisers understood and many other things- for that effect, your field major will be the first officer, who meets you when returning from the battle: Captain Furak, who is here. Furak said: I will be most honored that you could accept me as your assistant in this enterprise, captain Daron. Of course, you could choose another person if you like, and I will be just the same your admirer. Daron was touched by the apparent good will of everyone on the table- so he said: I am most honored by this selection you had made and the offering you are bestowing in me. Just a few questions before I accept your kind offer: I have my crew at the Freighter Gula and the spaceship belongs to me. What are we going to do with it while I am in command? 217 Admiral Toronkei said: It could be a part of your fleet, captain Daron.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Very well, then. It will serves as a carrier of goods or weaponry. I will speak with the crew of the Gula, and after that, I will answer to your offer.- Captain Daron said. Yes, very well. Only, you will have four days to do it; beyond that date, unfortunately we will give our fleet to another person to guide them to battle. You must understand we cannot wait too much.- Admiral Toronkei said, ending the meeting. At a corridor, Captain Furak said: I hope you could accept this offer, Sir. I understand you are not a military man- but I will help you in any problem we could encounter along the way. I thanks you a lot, Captain Furak. Your help will be tantalizing, if I accept.Daron said, not willing to commit himself before his talk with his faithful crew.. At the Hotel Lamar, he meets the crew of the freighter, after the military search for them- it was the second day after the meeting with Admiral Toronkei. Hi, captain! Having a good time?- Pilot Raneton asked him. Yes, more or less.- He replied. But captain! You always so serious! I had a lot of women now we are heroes! I can invite you to meet them any time you like.- Foren said. An EC from the Freighter Gula offers drinks, and then Daron said: Now well talk seriously about our present situation. 218 Dont tell me they are sending us again to war!- Arkilo, the engineer, said. Yes, I read it in his face the minute I get inside this room.- Foren said, changing from his joyful self. Well, guess you know me better than I know you! And yes, they had asked me to return to battle.- Daron said. This is not fair! I was having booze and girls for free and now they came out with this.- Foren almost moaned. Certainly this is not goodness, Captain. We already do our part- and I am talking as what we really are: the crew of a space freighter.- Raneton explained. What we really are is Neongos trying to defend our race! Thats what we really are- and dont forget it! But for your release of mind, I will tell you this: you arent supposed to go to war anymore! You could stay here taking all the booze and all the ladies you could find! I had received an offer from Admiral Toronkei: I told him I must talk with my old crew first. A thing we are doing now. Two days ago, I received the offer. Tomorrow ends the time to answer- after that, I guess we will be returning to our space freighter Gula, free to roam the space carrying goods. And thats the life we expect from you, Captain!- Arkilo said. Wait before you tell me your final word: the Admiral offers me to guide the new Starfleet to battle. Of course, I cannot 219 Be aboard a freighter! I will have the title of Admiral, and as such, I can nominate you my officers! That means after this war is over, you will be returning to a life of abundance with full pay as officers. They looked at him for a while, and Raneton said: We became officers, while you became an Admiral! And what about the freighter Gula? Daron said: I will offer it as what it is: a cargo spaceship! Able to carry goods or military men, perhaps also synthetic soldiers- many uses it is able to perform.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer One of you is going to be the captain, or perhaps somebody else from the military. Raneton said: I go to war only if you give me the title of captain of the Gula freighter! And me as first officer of the Gula!- Arkilo said, remembering the old engines of that space freighter- Daron looks on Foren, who said: Captain: count me as your first mate, I cannot leave you alone in this war! They all smiled, and Daron was happy to have their trust- also, a sense of fear, as he could lead them to death! Raneton said: Hope you will be not thinking you are forcing to do this, captain! We were tired of the booze and the women, is it not true, fellows? They all accented but, of course, Daron didnt believe them. That night they roamed the street, drinking and seeking women to have a good time before leaving the city. At the next morning day, Daron walked to the Admiralty, and stated he accepts the title and works the Star fleet command 220 could order him to do. Captain Furok was very happy, and makes the connection with Admiral Toronkei, who calls on Daron and his crew, to raise them from volunteers to be members of the Star Fleet in a short ceremony. I proclaim you, Daron Hinauer, as the Admiral of the Second Fleet; to you, Captain Furak, as his first Assistant with the grade of Major. To you, Space sailors Raneton, Arkilo and Foren, the title of Lieutenant. Be brave and tie victory will be ours! They also receive uniforms, insignias and all the gear those titles had attached. After that ceremony was over, Major Furak said: Admiral Daron: it is needed to make a reunion with all of the captains and commanders of your fleet. Yes, well, my crew will be divided: Captain of the Gula is now Lieutenant Raneton, First officer is Lieutenant Arkilo The rest of that crew remains the dame: the 22 Electronic Creatures I had previously. It would be good to attach some military men on board.- Captain Furak said. That I will discuss with Captain Raneton.- Daron said, not willing to impose military men to his former crew. As you wish, Admiral.- Captain Furak said. Foren, the last man of my former crew, will be at my side- same as youbecause he chooses to do so. Now, call me those captains, please. 221 Daron said, feeling he was in charge. Two hours later, on a room of the Admiralty building on the city of Domicilium, Daron receives the captains of the Second Fleet, who were: # 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 F Cruiser name Intractatus Generose Directus Corono Circumago Tremendus Sponcio Gula Captain Lerche Hohe Geburt Beinah Ubernagh Ofter Gemein Raneton First officer. Furak Amacor Teteno Fikal Ranet Cocodem Mermeso Arkilo

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer

Daron said: Good to have all here, gentlemen. This is our first reunion in private. I am happy to be your leader, and I hope to do something good in behalf of our race. And mind my words, because I am not saying in behalf of our nation, but of our race- its life is at stake, and for the second time in 300 years. Our leaders are fighting far away from us. Our efforts will release them for much struggle, only if we are smart, brave and bold. Major Furok is my best card in this game- I am sure you all will learn to appreciate his skills. 222 Daron looks at his audience, to see the effect of his words on them- he saw that several of them glanced to captain Furak with mistruth- perhaps thinking he was only the captain of a small hunter spaceship- with no experience on any war. Daron said: In exactly four hours more, we will be leaving this world, and begin our trek. I hope we have luck, and I hope every one of you accept my orders and make yourselves worthwhile of the name of heroes. Our nation and our people need you! And now, I will leave the word to Major Furak, for more technical and strategically issues. This he said, because of strategy he knew absolutely nothing. Furak, by the other side, was well aware of all of it, after his passing by the Starfleet Academy on Domicilium. Captain Raneton release from the Deep Sleep the passengers of the Bell Shaped vessel, and Mr. Martin Gomez and his group descended unto the space port of Domicilium City, happy to be out of dangers. CHAPTER 10. The Departure of The Second Starfleet from Domicilium realm.

Four hours later, the Second Starfleet from Domicilium leaves the orbit and speeded towards the point of Brana traversing. One hour to the point of jump, Sir.- Foren said from the pilots seat- he was proud to be there, manning the huge Cruiser for the first time in his life. Very well, first officer. Keep on.- Daron said, with happy eyes. Admiral: let me give a signal to the rest of the fleet, when you make the Jump.Major Furak said. Of course, major. I have a freighter that will arrive later to the point of jumping. 223 After that, the freighter will follow us at Warp 6- the most he can achieve.Daron said. Well leave electric Beacons before and after the traversing, Admiral.- Major Furak said. Understood, good point.- Daron said, released- he wasnt very happy to risk his own freighter in this mission. Hours later, the seven Cruisers traverse the Branas as one single body; they were close to the Knappian Planetary system, and soon they find wrecks on their path. This time there were small teams to recover and analyze every bit they want, and discovered it were Domicilium remains. A pity. For the size of these wrecks- the amount of debris- I am sure it was a couple of cruisers.- Furak said, in a low voice, after receiving the information from the recovery spaceships.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Daron accented with a movement of his head, but did not say a word. For him, it was a bad omen. They keep on advancing, and then they detected several explosions coming from the V planet of Knappian planetary system. They are fighting over there, Admiral!- Foren said, in surprise. Major Furak approaches, saying: seems we are going to have some action, Admiral.Yes, what do you think about? We could deploy three Cruisers in a wide arc, and anyone who finds the enemy , must give the alarm.- this is, including the coordinates 224 The other two will get close and will attack- we could approach the site and stay as reinforce. I see. Well, lets name who are those first three scouts, then we follow them.Daron said. Captain Furak calls to Cruiser Generose, Directus and Corono as the three that must fasten pace towards V. The others followed; the Generose Gives the signal, the other two went to the aid of it- soon they had visual contact- three Knappian battleships far, almost touching the peaks of the mountains, the Domicilium only Cruiser defends itself the best their crew knows how. Attack!- They heard captain Hohe yelling, and the three Cruisers begin firing against the Knappian battle-cruisers- one of them land on the V planet, and the other two tried to respond the firing- Daron advance with the other three Cruisers and after a short interchange of LASER beams and missiles, the two enemy battlefields also descends to the planet. Damaged or feigning to be damaged- we must neutralize those spaceships. Hail them to surrender.- Daron said to the Electronic Creatures at the radio station. Soon afterwards the reply come: no surrender is possible. Fire to their engines! See that they dont explode.- Daron ordered, and the battleships received several LASER beams, ruining their electrical systems. Several teams descended on foot and invaded those battleships, 225 Where the occupants were dead of battling furiously from sealed compartments. The chased Domicilium Cruiser returns and landed near the two cruisers that Daron permits to land- the rest was in s synchronous orbit, defending the site from afar. The Captain Shobaro, of the Cruiser Nullum, was having a virtual reunion with Admiral Daron and two other Commanders. Thanks to you, we are alive.- Captain Shobaro said. We are the Second Fleet; Im Admiral Daron from Domicilium! Where are the rest of our First Fleet?- Daron asked him. We are the only survivors, Admiral! The rest is between here and planet Knapp! We found that the Federation Starfleet was recently here to help the almost defeated Royal Knappian Fleet! - Captain Shobaro informed. Daron looks at Captain Furak, who said: It was a possibility, of course. How many spaceships had come to their rescue?

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Eighteen, Sir. Before our comrades were blown to non existence, we smashed four starships from Federation Starfleet and two Knappian Battle cruisers.Captain Shobaro said. So there are fourteen Star Fleet enemy vessels lurking around? And how many Knappian battle cruisers?- Daron wanted to know. None, Admiral! You had disposed of the last three of those devils! Now they rely only on Federation Star fleet!- Captain Shobaro said. Daron realize he was going to fight against 226 Goliath, so he said: We will attack! Prow to the fourth planet! But before that, blow the enemy spaceships! And the remaining crews on those spaceships, Admiral?- Captain Furak asked him. They had never surrendered! Their fate runs along with their spaceships!Daron said, ending the virtual reunion. Minutes later, the three Battleships were burning on the ground, while the eight Cruisers were advancing at Warp 7 towards the next planet. I hope my luck still lingers with me.- Daron murmured. You was born with luck, Admiral!- Foren said, smiling. The great IV planet was bigger now on the screen. Two spaceships ahead, Admiral. Seems they already spotted us!- Foren said, later. They could be asking for the rest. Attack immediately!- Daron said, but suddenly the spaceship disappears from sight. Cloaking deices!- Captain Furak said, very alarmed. Ultraviolet light will show their heat!- Daron tells to his Starfleet. Soon the rays begin to crisscross the space; two Cruisers were hit, but with the combined efforts, the enemy spaceships were cut in half, loosing their invisibility to become wrecks hurling away. Cruisers, report damages to the Admiral!- Captain Furak said by the radio. Captain Hohe said: Cryiogenic chambers destroyed, Admiral! Rest of the Cruiser in good conditions- we are working on the hull now. 227 Captain Hofter said: Right nacelle broken, Admiral! Not possible to repair in present conditions! Warp 3 is our maximum velocity by now. The rest of the Captains didnt report of damages on their spaceships. Very well. Captain Hofter, you will remain orbiting this planet! In case of any enemy attack, you must call us for help!- Daron said. The rest of the Cruisers followed the Intractatus to the next planet. Four Cruisers incoming, Admiral! They are firing their missiles already!Captain Lerche said. Change to ultraviolet vision! Soon they will try to trick us with the cloaking devices!- Daron ordered, the battle was a dog fight, with the big Cruisers turning and twisting, sending their lava everywhere. One Starfleet Cruiser exploded as a balloon, and illuminates the rest of the Spaceships like they were inside the Sun. C- Beam jammed, Captain! - One of the EC gunners said through the Intercom. Keep on with the missiles! - Captain Lerche said, and Daron felt the vibration of the launchers under his shoes.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Another couple of explosions lights the heavens for a pair of interminable seconds. The Intractatus rocked under a couple of C blasts, while Foren was saying: Shields at forty three per cent, Captain! 228 A far- off lightning and the voice of Captain Ubernagh was saying: we hit it! EC #50 approaches to Admiral Daron, saying: Three enemy spaceships destroyed. One of our spaceships is lost: the Sponcio was broken in two pieces. Now the remains are approaching planet 3. Send Fliers to see if they could rescue somebody there! On the double!Admiral Daron said, as he knew for experience that some thirty per cent of the crew of a severed Cruiser could be saved in the first hour of the disaster. A team of Army Fliers leaves the Cruiser at top speed, swarming over the damaged Domicilium Cruiser. A federation Starfleet Cruiser crossed fires with the Directus Cruiser; Captain Lerche fires four photon Torpedoes, hitting it with one of them- the Federation Cruiser loose control and has hurled to the ground, while several lifesaver boats were abandoning the damned vessel it was number nine Federation Cruiser going out of the battle- the remaining spaceships run out of sight. Admiral Daron receives the general congratulations of the rest of Captains, but he was worried about the rescue team that went after the descending wreck of the Sponcio. The Fliers rescued eight natural people and twenty four Synthetic persons, Sir.- Foren said, after revising the messages on his holographic set. Where are they?- Daron asked. At the Generose Cruiser, Admiral.- Foren said, looking again in his console. Prepare a virtual meeting with the rescued people!- Darin said, and fifteen minutes later he seats in front of a holographic set , looking the resemblance of the men rescued from the Sponcio : among them, he saw the stout figure of Captain Gemein. He sighed a good captain wasnt easy to find. 229 Welcome again, Gentlemen! Congratulations for youre safely return! Pity on the rest of your crew, Captain Gemein. The captain was now with sunken eyes and very abated for the loss of the Cruiser, and said: Thanks, Admiral! Pity about the loss of the Sponcio with all those braves. Yes, of course, a grave loss, but you and your remaining crew are very valuable for us. By the time being, I beg of all of you to stay at the Generose cruiser, where you could be of much help!- Daron said, ending the conversation. Major Furak said: Admiral, we are after the nine federation spaceships with our six Cruisers? And we cannot count on the Tremendus under the guidance of Captain Ofter as he is at the IV planet with his lame cruiser. You have right. Lets see if we could surrender a city for our purposes.- Daron said, but the scout ships that were sent to propose their rendition, wasnt heard by the people of Knapp- they use big C Beam cannons to refuse any talk, especially at Oredloro, home of the King. Foren said: theres a nice place at Island 20. Easy to obtain, and we could repair spaceships there; plenty of fresh water and food- animals abounds on the woods. And where is that nice place?- Daron asked.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer At Island 20. Wile place, no matter how many times some or other visionary could had begun his colonizing efforts.- Foren said. Admiral Daron looks at it using the holographic set, and seeing the great potential 230 Of that island, he sent half his battle group to land, and the other works as eagles on the high altitude. They sent the EC to repair the hulls and the N Men to talk with the small community under the Domicilium government. The mall village has 2.433 people; in old times it was a real city, but with successive tsunamis, the populace was dwindling to the present state. The Chief of them, Mr. Porton Vordelm, was neither mad nor happy with their arrival. Daron told him, in a meeting with almost the entire number of adults. I m Admiral Daron from Mundifico! We defeat your royal space fleet in battle! Now you dont have Starfleet and the Federation Space Fleet is defeated! I reframe this whole island for the Mundifico nation! Its our destiny to reclaim this world, as your forefathers diabolically poisoned our world of Jerifordion!- Daron said. Porton Vordelm looks at him and his own people, saying: I have no objection to your plans, Admiral! Only I beg of you to leave us living where we are and in the same way we live. We love this piece of land, the sea and the clouds above! We will obey any order you could give us. And he was an old man in his eighties. By the moment, you are free to live your traditional way of life. But I want a census, your names and ages, for the affidavit! As you could imagine, I am a military man and not prone to became judge of civil governor!- Daron exclaimed. 231 Mr. Porton Vordelm said: I will give you our names and age, occupations and addresses we have nothing to hide. Very well, but if you find someone from Knapp Kingdom trying to make us harm, you must to give us notice.- Daron said. I understand our position, Admiral. We will cooperate the way you need.Vordelm assures to him. Four days later, the Cruisers were already in working order, and Daron takes off with them, much to the relief of Mr. Porton Vordelm who hoped not to see them again Two Cruisers will remain here: Generose, Directus were going to planet Two and One.He directed the Intractatus in the way of the first worlds of the Knappian planetary system; he had the Cruiser Crono behind him, while planet two was reached. Suddenly, three cruisers appear on the long range radar, coming from the left. Incoming vessels. Shields up. Prepare weapons.- Admiral Daron said. Sudden C Beams erupted from the enemy crafts, severing Cruiser Crono from tip to tail (prow to pope) ; notwithstanding that, the missiles were fired and the C Beam mechanism, its core split open, produce a big explosion, whose wave moved the rest of the vessels away. The concussion left the N humans unconscious; the AB from the Federation Warships

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer 232 Only avoid the enemy ships, due to the first law of robotics. Instead, the Electronic Creatures from Domicilium, that has another different code of conduct, fired their weapons at will, destroying the Federation spaceships in minutes of fiery bombardment. When the N people awake naturally from their black-out, they didnt saw enemy ships but the silent and distant stars, unblinking in the deep space. Where did they go?- Admiral Daron asked. Where are we? Foren said. Near Knapp planet, Sir. Enemy destroyed.- EC #85 said. Really.- Major Furak said, reading the log- this Electronic Creatures ends with the enemy spaceships. Clever boys! Guess we were knocked out!- Foren said, scratching his head. Daron calls on the rest of his fleet, and ordered them to reunite on planet IV; the freighter Gula was already there. Daron looks at the aligned vessels standing on the blackness of space. The Cruisers Generose, Directus, Corono and Tremendus were seeing from the Intractatus the freighter Gula was at the other side. We will be here defending the entrance to the planetary system. By then, the Tremendous will travel back to Domicilium to be repaired and give the news. Perhaps they had built 233 More spaceships by then- Captain Ofter, I recommend you to come back as soon as your space Cruiser is repaired. Yes, Admiral; I know that here you need all the Cruisers you can find.- Ofter said. And tell them that we need colonists! We will invade this planetary system, nolis volis!- Daron said, defiantly. The Tremendus turns around and speed towards the Brana window they usually use for the traversing- so they could be most sure they were going out at the proper site. So, four Cruisers and the Gula spacecraft were there to shun entrance of alien people. They were situated in a large curve line, waiting for future reinforcements from the Federation of Planets. Five weeks passed, and no spaceship comes from the void. Daron was bored, and Foren said: Admiral! Why dont we move to a better location? You can leave the Freighter here, to sound the alarm! Im sure Captain Raneton will like it. Possibly.- Daron replied, and one day later, they leave the V planets orbit, traveling to Knapp; the C Beam cannons were again fired against them from the cities- fortunately, without any damage. We defeat their space fleet but a different thins is to occupy their cities!- Daron said, seated at the table of the mess hall at the Intractatus cruiser. Presents were Major Furak, pilot and radar man Foren, Captain Lerche from the Intractatus. We need an Army to occupy the land, thats the obvious second part of our campaign. 234

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer I wonder on the politicians back home, none of them come with the Fleet! Sure they werent too sure that we were going to be the winners of this war!- Captain Lerche said, decidedly. It was a pity our President Hidler dies.- Daron reminded, as he knew politicians did were on the First Fleet. President Hidler had big plans and traveled with a group of clever assistants. Now we are lacking them badly.- Major Furak said. In the books, Knappian people are a hundred and thirty two million people. We are what? Three millions in all?- Daron asked. About 4.5 millions, Sir.- EC #70 said, from a corner. Yes. Too many Knappian to be controlled.- Daron said, thoughtfully. Mind control is a solution.- Major Furak said. Tamed like puppets. Not very humane.- Daron remarked. But necessary! Mind control using sound waves and drugging through the water pipes.- Major Furak said. We could administrate Knappian society from the shadows.- Foren explains. We need much expertise.- Daron said, moving his head sidewise. Nothing of the sort, Admiral! Our Electronic Creatures could perform the task beautifully! Are they not versed in every aspect of human knowledge?- Captain Lerche asked them. Certainly true, captain! We have enough material here to give them the means! Lts try at least, Admiral!- Furak proposes. I will put you in charge of this project, Major Furak! We will call this project Puppet Master!= Daron said. 235 Seven days later, the transmitter was tested on Oxiborion, sending messages of love and peace for all mankind; at night the frequency was heightened and at the next morning Daron sent a message of friendship and understanding, putting all the blame of the war on the Federation of Planets. At midday a message of the Governor General, Mr. Dexion Boseri, answered with an invitation for a general meeting at 16.00 hours. Accepted! You, Major Furak, will go there with seven armed Electronic Creatures and myself. We will talk of peace but also, of obedience and rewards. We must become the new government- and I, their President!- Daron said, fascinated with the radio emissions and the final effects. The Electronic Creatures transmitted until 15:30 hours and then a Wagon Flier descended to the top of the Administration building; several dozen people from the government were there waiting to guide them downstairs. Welcome to Oxiborion city! I am Boseri, the Governor!- A man said, who was wearing a blue suit. Thanks; I am the Admiral Daron from the Domicilium Star Fleet. Nice to meet you, Sir.- Daron said, with a wide smile on his face. He was with Major Furak and the seven armed Electronic Creatures he chooses for his protection. They were able to shoot or hit anyone that offends him physically. They were guided to a warm and long 236 Room where some seats were on an extreme, and people stands in front. The Governor Boseri presents them several important persons and then he invites them to seat, waiting for Daron to speak.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer I am happy to be with you; we had erased evil from the skies; never again the evil Federation of Planets and its Starfleet will come to tell you what to do or when to do things. We, from the Domicilium world, are the old Neongos, which your former government tries to exterminate from Jenifordion planet, all because you wanted the ores on our planetary system. That is old history now, but we are suffering: Jerifordion planet is doomed, poisoned by your biological warfare. Many scientists had died recently in a trip to that planet of doom! So we came here to stay: you debt us a planet! We are living now on a satellite that revolves around a planet so fast, that we had two nights in twenty four hours! He saw they were crying, men and women alike; the governor embraces him saying: What a sad and terrible history you brought to us. We are certainly indebt! Come, tell your brothers to come! We will receive them in our midst! We will give rooms on our homes and places in our works! And they all applauded with tears on their eyes. Tell them we need money, Admiral! 237 Grab something for us, too!- Foren said, eyes shining with greediness.. And we need money for our return to Domicilium Satellite and bring our people here. Help us in this campaign! Demonstrate we could have a fraternity of loving comprehension among humans! The governor Boseri talks with the important people present. And said: We will help you with gold and silver, or in any way you ask! I am sure our Knappian money is worthless in your planet! But objects and valuables could help you better isnt it?Yes, of course. I will give you a list that will serve as well as money.- Daron said, happy to be there. EC #70 gives the governor a memory pill with articles they could donate; then they return to the flier and in it, to the orbiting Cruiser Intractatus. He calls to a general meeting, and said: Our Project Puppet Master had succeeded. Now we are in front of a city that want our people in their midst. I ignore if we could make it permanently? We can make it permanently using the Brain Waves goes unto them, in a daily basis- four hours in every twenty four hours! By the time we stop transmissions, perhaps six months, the ideas introduced into their egos will be so deeply rooted, that they will cling to them out of repetition!- EC #70 said in a monotonous voice. 238 We should connect our present situation with the ones at Domicilium. If we achieve this offer to succeed, we could resist Federation on legal terms- we could say that this people accepted us here, that we have a right to be here! And in the future, who knows- defeat our enemy by infiltrating them!- Daron said. I offer myself and crew, to make jumps directly to Domicilium! Once there, to bring here as many citizens as my Cruiser could hold! And perhaps more spaceships could carry people here! Perhaps our government could rent vehicles! - Captain Goburt from the Directus said. Certainly, we need action!- Captain Gemein said, adding: and I am offering myself, too! As a captain without a spaceship- who knows; perhaps I could find me some vessel there!

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer They laughed, and Daron said: Of course, here we are not many to sustain a war. We need, at the least, a dozen more Cruisers! As you said, our Government should rent what they cannot build! EC #70 said: Possibly this people has some good Fliers capable of to be transformed in small hunter crafts, duly weaponized!Manned by Electronic Creatures ?_ Raneton asked. Could be! They hadnt problems shooting people.- Shobaro said. Enemies! That first must be firing at us!- Daron remembered them. 239 They dont find Fliers- the community was living on their own and in a primitive way- but overly friendly. Days later, Daron saw aerial vehicles coming from the west- the Cruisers hovered high over the island. A line of Fliers. What this mean?- Foren asked, hearing at the radio. Foren talked with them and then said: They arent coming here! They had some Paleozoic site to the north! Tell them we want to follow them to have a talk!- Daron said, greedy about those new Fliers. They thanks, but prefers not! There are exotic species over there- its the saying.- Foren informed. All right, just sent a Flier there- to see where they land.- Daron said to Captain Lerche, who complied right away. CHAPTER 11 Captain Ofter The Cruiser Tremendus was approaching the Aquarii 31 planetary system. Captain Ofter was satisfied of his crew- the calculus was proven correct and the point of appearance was the expected one- in front and near the Aquarii 31 star. 240 Hail the government! We had great news, the triumph over the enemy is tantalizing and the urgency to act is also great.- Captain Ofter said to the radio man, EC 02. Sending message. They are asking us to not land but waits on orbit.- EC #02 said. No problem! We will wait . Any explanation for this kind of request?- Captain Ofter asks. Yes. At the North Pole, there are three Federation Cruisers in a diplomatic visit. Special envoy John Warne is here to talk with the Government.- EC #02 said. They should know about their associates at Knapp.- Gemein said, pensively. Most probably. Super radios exist.- Ofter said. So they want us like deterrence? Prepare cannons?- Officer Cocodermo asked. Yes. Put our crew on Yellow alert. No need to be over confident in times of war.- Captain Ofter growled. Two days later, a military Flier locked with the Cruiser Tremendus and people walked in, received by four Electronic Creatures that guided them to the huge Conference Room, where hastily arrives the Cruisers officers and the captain ,who said: Welcome to the Tremendus , gents. I am Captain Ofter.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Yes, I am governor Urotong. This is Admiral Toronkei, Major Alparme, and the new President, Corber.- Urotong said. Much obliged.- Captain Ofter said, looking at them, especially to the President, who was a large man. 241 In his sixties, bald and dressed in a one piece suit. I am your President now. Gone is Hidler, loor (praise), loor to Hidler!_ Corber said. Loor, loor to Hidler.- The others said. Gone are thousands of men in their steel and plastic machines! Loor, loor to the heroes!- President Corber said. His voice was profound and severe.. Loor, loor (hail) to the heroes!- Everyone, included the crew of the Tremendus, said. Corber, Corber is your President!- Governor Urotong said. Corber is our President!- They all repeated, and Ofter, Cocodermo , Gemein ,Treboller the engineer, repeats. Yes, I am your President. Here we are, members of an almost extinguished race, threatened on our own second stand! The force of Federation has come to warn us! Stop invasions! Forget revenge!- President Corber said. What to do?- Governor Urotong asks. The will to power takes our bodies beyond any frontier; the will to power takes their bodies beyond any frontier! War and struggle is inevitable. Our banners will be this phrase: Brana Two for the Second Brana inhabitants! The ears of those men of war had heard what I had spoken. Our Alliance will prevail. We will wait them on their wormhole exits and they will be incapable of to make the crossing feasible. 242 Our scientists had evolved machines to do this; well be both abated, we will not permit them to gain power in this Universe of ours loor to the science! Loor to the Science!!- They all said, much to the inner surprise of Captain Ofter and his crew and passengers. President Corver said to Captain Ofter: Your Cruiser is very valuable for this Enterprise. A machine of no trespassing (MNT) will be attached to your Cruiser, as it is in our two modern newly made Cruisers Azag and Pazuzu. Our Allies are coming here, where well be providing the machines of MNT! When the Federation understands our needs, they will be allowed to commerce with us in peace. But battle ships will be not allowed. Their every spaceship will be scanned thoroughly if not supposedly armed with weapons. Peace to the Second Brana! Peace to the Second Brana!- They all said, smiling. Happiness was around the corner! President Corber went back to the city of Domicilium with his retinue. Captain Ofter said: If this could be donned, we will be independent- certainly at Brana One the civilization is way much advanced and the people are in much greater numbers. The wormholes are known. But remember that we could transpose Branas at will.- Gemein said. 243

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Obviously true. The wormholes didnt traverse Branas, but places at the same Universe. President Corber surely has mistaken things._ Officer Cocodermo analized the situation. Just the same we must patrol our skies. A big Army is needed. President Corber seems to be in touch with the rest of the members of the Alliance Starfleet.- Gemein said. Two days later, the Tremendous was taken to a flying dock, where technicians begin to set in place the MNT Macnine that resembles the figure of a cork screw ten meters long, 4.5 meters wide, connected to the energy generators of the spaceship. This new technology will succeed only in Wormholes. Captain Ofter said to Governor Urotong , through he Holographic set. Yes, there are rumors, Captain, about it: only serves for one purpose and the other is open. But dont you worry: speak directly with the person in charge.Mr. Urotong said, hanging up. And that person who is he?- Daron asked. The War Ministry, Mr. Raisen Rainolds. He is a nice person.- The governor of Domicilium City said, ending the conversation rather abruptly. CHAPTER 12 The Bell Shaped Spaceship

Daron was advised that the Bell shape spaceship was approaching his vessel; soon Mr. Martin Gomez was before him, saying: Captain Daron! Good to see you! I was advised that you are the new Admiral of the Fleet! We were at Domicilium city, but we were doing nothing useful there, so we come here- we must film and take notes of this war. Welcome to my spaceship, Mr. Gomez! Im certainly an Admiral, but with scant Cruisers, thats the sad truth. The captain of this cruiser is officer Lerche. Oh, I am sorry by my mistake, calling you a Captain! And I congratulate you for your promotion! - Mr. Gomez said, and one of his lovely daughters takes her helmet off her head, saying: Admiral! Wow! Now I know we are safe! Myrna Lower also approaches, saying: we are at home now! How do you do, Mr. Daron? Just fine, Madam! Pleased to have you on board! But please, lets go talking at my cabin! And we will take some refreshments there.- Daron said, Happy to see nice feminine faces again. While drinking some beverages, he heard how the Dylithium crystals had almost being used at the Bell spacecraft- and also the funds- so now they were almost marooned on Knappian territory. If you could help us now, I am sure we will be able to repay you later.- Myrna Lower said. Of course! But I must see if we can give away some of our Dylithium crystals, Madam. I will ask for it among our Captains. But please, stay here tonight! I know your Bell spaceship has cramped habitats!- Daron invited them- they accepted, most of all, not to be impolite while asking for favors Daron gives those cabins alongside the same corridor as his own cabin, and they talked and laughed until they were sleepy. Daron guides them to their

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer cabins that have a bed in each of them, and return to his own, feeling he was going to give the crystal in the morning. Later that night, someone rings the chime at his cabin; he opens the door and there was Myrna, in a nightgown. He let him pass, and soon afterwards they were kissing each other and it was like a force that was uniting them violently, so they make love and then she said: give him the crystal, Daron! Oh, and come with us, to love you some more! Daron was flattered, but he said: And your husband? What about him? We dont love each other anymore! We are like clerks in a store! But you is who I love- since we met. Daron said he felt likewise. We want to go to Domicilium! Why you dont go there, in our Bell spaceship? You could return here in a Cruiser! Good idea, and I wonder whats happening there. I really can use your spaceship- come here!- Daron said, taking her in his arms again. At the next morning, the crystal in position inside the Bell Spaceship engine, Daron gives full powers to Captain Lerche, and departed, in secret, to Domicilium. Using the Branas jump, they arrive in days to Domicilium, and Daron went to the Tremendus spaceship in a hurry. Two days later, Daron saw by the holographic set that a delegation from Aurea planet was arriving to Domicilium, in order to concrete the path for a common defense of the Second Brana independence. Among the people arriving, it was the name of Mr. Tupine. Daron immediately tried to contact him but there was no connection available yet. He takes notes about where they were to be hosted, and it seems it was on the Administration Building at Domicilium City. EC #70 said, when called: We know where he is? No, Sir! But perhaps you must ask for an AB Synthetic person to know. The Aurean people used them. You can borrow one at Domicilium City, if you like! Right! Prepare a Flier! And also, tell authorities I am going to be Administration building. See that I get a proper retinue.- Daron asked, preparing himself to the descent to Domicilium City. EC #70 prepares a Wagon Flier, with ten Electronic Creatures and ten natural soldiers to give him the proper retinue. Daron went into the Wagon Flier by the ramp, and soon they were landing at one of the platforms the Administration Building has on top. The surprise of his arrival was not as much as his personal guards- fully armedand so the Secretary of the War Ministry, Mr. Rak Vorg, comes to his arrival in a hurry. Admiral Daron! Good to see you here! Are you coming for a visit to our Governor Urotong? Yes, among other things! I want to know why I am not invited to the meetings with the Aurean envoys to the Alliance final talks! I am a full Admiral and I need to be taken in consideration!- Daron said. 245 Secretary Vorg did not like the way Admirals soldiers were looking fully armed, so he said: Perhaps you could come along with me, for a talk with the Governor, leaving your space soldiers here?

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer No, they are my personal guard! I need to be respected!-Daron said, looking mean. They are at a meeting, now. I cannot lead you there right now. You must to come back later.- The Secretary Vorg decidedly said. Daron takes him by the neck, handling him to his soldiers and saying: Force him to tell me where are Governor Urotong! The now scared man accepts the order and in a elevator they descend, leaving half the group for a second trip. Daron waits at floor number two for the rest to come, and when all were joined there, they stomped on a room, where the authorities were in reunion. Everyone looks startled, and Daron said to them: Excuse me for this untimely appearance, Sirs! But I need to be taken in consideration: I am the Admiral of the Second Space Fleet! Vice President Oxron Vortelgungen said: Sir! You were not invited! Permits me to invite myself, then! I am the Admiral of your space force! When this war begins, I was there to fight no matter if aboard a space freighter! Now I have 246 Spaceships awaiting your reinforcements at the Knappian realm! The urgency of the reinforcement arrival is urgent! I see here people from Aurean Planetary system and among them, Mr. Tupine, who is an old acquaintance of mine! Mr. Tupine, now as Plenipotentiary Ministry from the Aurean Government, realize the career of Daron was in stake, so he helps him by saying: I know your value, Admiral Daron; Im sure your assistance at this first meeting as totally pertinent and useful. I invite you to seat at this table, and I beg of our hosts to accept your recommendations, I must sure hope you will have during our reunions. Vice President Vortelgungen was not at all pleased, but accepted the intrusion not to dissapo9nt his visitors and allies from Aurean Planetary system. Its OK by me, then! Take a seat, Administrator Daron, and perhaps you could enlighten us with your counsels.- Vice President Vortelgungen said, not hiding his annoying. Daron seats, while his military group takes positions along the four walls, much to the disturbance of everyone. Daron said: Our Alliance must have lots of spaceships capable of to shun the entrance of any battleship to Brana Two. President Corber had said its enough to prevent their entrance to our Brana by waiting at the end of the Wormholes that we know in existence. But its a big flaw in his discourse, mainly, that a spaceship capable of traversing the Branas 247 Is also capable of to appear everywhere their crew or captain desires! As I had donned in the past, using a common middle sized Freighter- the Gula, now at Knappian Planetary system. I am sure our President has not flawed the question in discussion. Certainly he must have some more information than we had now.- Vice President Corber said. Certainly. In all cases, we of Aurean planet have three hundred and two battle cruisers ready to support the Alliance. We had here numbers from the other members of the Alliance of the Second Brana, or Alliance Starfleet. We had numbers, that now you can see on the Hologram:

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer

Aurean Star fleet 302 Aurean 7 2 Moll 13 13 Moll 23 6 Spoon Beta 101 Spoon Alfa 84 Delta Swastika (Knapp) Unknown now due to the war. Total = 518 And of course, Delta Swastika, or Knapp Planetary system, has not allied with us but with Federation of Planets, that means they preferred Brana 1 people than Brana 2 brotherhood.=- Mr. Tupine finally said. I can inform you that Knapp civilization has no space fleet by now. Our forces had wiped out every one of their spaceships as well as the spaceships the Federation of Planets had on that planetary system.-= Daron said, surprising the most of them with the news. 248 Vice-president Vortelgungen said: How many space fighters are left, Admiral Daron? Two of them are here, and four at the Knappian realm, plus the Freighter Gula, that acts as a troop carrier plus armament. So, we have six Cruisers.- Major Turak said. Domicilium has six, and the rest are five hundred and eight. In all, five hundred and four Spaceships to guard our entire Brana._ Aurean Ministry of the War, Ritwoker, said. The gross estimation is that the Federation of planets has many more vessels than us.- Chancellor Corvallan said. But we are not going to invade them! That makes things even!- Daron said. Our work is to unify forces. I must have a swift moving Armada, capable of to appear where its needed the most and without delay.- Mr. Tupine said. How many Cruisers could your government built in six months, Vice-president Vortelgungen?Ritwoker asks. I am not able to reply to that question before asking our President, who is presently at Defensio city.- Vice president Oxron Vortelgungen said. Of course, we are merely beginning our visit and this is the first reunion of many others.- Said the Ministry of the War (Aurean) Mr. Ritwoker . There are similar visits of our community to the other members of the Alliance. In fact we are reviving the old powerful 249 Alliance one of our common heroes founded ages ago: and I mean Mundifico.Yes, now we have a real need of a powerful Alliance once again. Kaisen Rainolds, the Ministry of War said. We could build orbital stations near the end of Wormholes, with enough fire power to stop an invasion. The Armada could serve to patrol the rest of the vicinity of our civilized and inhabited worlds.- Chancellor (Aurean) Orson Corvallan said. They were all in accord to work together to obtain their final goal: Brana Two for the people who lives there. Daron talks in an apart with Mr. Tupine, saying: as

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer you see, Sir, I change my trade for an Admiralty only I stomp on halls to make me hear.= Mr. Tupine smiled and said: of course, Admiral; you must use the power you did have or the politicians will let you aboard your ships waiting for orders! I had studied this people before coming here; the President is a kind of Philosopher with both feet twenty centimeters above ground. Daron understand the analogy, and said: All I want from my government is more Cruisers being built. The pity is we take a lot of time to finish new Cruisers- the last ones were begin being assembled three years ago. And I am afraid we have a lot less time to be ready. Mr. Tupine said: They could buy some of ours- or just contribute with some iron 250 Or goods to the maintenance of the Army. Even people could be of service to ours. We the Aurean, are powerful than you right now- that could change, or became equal to us in the future- that is our goal, we must became powerful civilizations capable of to colonize this side of the Universe. Totally in accord, Mr. Tupine. Count with me for anything you want. Daron said, and then they went to their groups. At the spaceship, Intractatus, Daron also has a reunion with the crew, to explain what happened on the Administration building with the people of Domicilium and their guests. Captain Ofter said: We had talked with Admiral Toronkei, and he had told us there is no Cruiser being built So we must take care from now on, or our people will be devoid of military spaceships for a long time!- Daron said. Officer Cocodermo said: that will depend of the enemy; we should carry colonizers to Knapp planet. Do you speak about that, Admiral? Not this time. I was very busy trying not to be expulsed from that session- a fortunately, it was there Mr. Tupine from Aurean planet, who is a friend of mine and said a few words on my behalf. Daron remembered. 253 Our mission will fail if we keep on staying here, Admiral. Or they give us people or we leave; that should be your saying.- Captain Ofter said. I will be on another meeting tomorrow. Lets make a list- and the options.Daron said, talking some more with his crew. Later, he returns to his cabin, where Myrna Lower was waiting. Hi, dear! Have a rough day?- She asked, embracing him tenderly. More or less, darling! And you, bored to be here?- He asked, kissing the lovable woman. No! I was on Defensio city, aboard the Bell Martin was there with both girlsTina and Mariella- nice climate; they will have plenty of action there, as they call to be dancing at nightclubs.- She said, smiling. On the Bell? And wheres the Bell right now?- Daron asked. Back to Dock 3 of this spaceship, dear! I know how to drive it, you know? Not for nothing I am traveling in it for months on end!- She said, with a husky voice. They went into the bed and she clapped their hands, so as to cut the lights off The meeting was adjourned at 20 hours- so Daron has time for romancing the attractive Myrna- she behaves as a woman with no responsibilities whatsoever, and the word yes was her motto. At 20.00 hours, in Domicilium Administrator Building, the same 254

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Group of session number one were present, plus President Corber, five members of his Advisor Committee, and a fat lady with a lot of make-up. Called Malinda Androg, Chief executive of the Dockyard. President Corber takes the opportunity to say: Welcome you all, members of the Delegation from Aurean Planet! I am the president Corber- Loor to the Alliance! Loor to the Alliance!- Said the Domicilium members of the reunion. My admiral Daron has said I commit a flaw: that consist on the idea that we can stop Federation invasion by placing our Cruisers at the end of wormholes- when everybody knows a spaceship is capable of jump through Branas could appear anywhere!- President Corver said. Thats correct, President Corver! I had used calibrated jumps and I had appeared justly where I planet to be! In fact, never I had used wormholes in my trips.-Daron said. Very well! Here we are: I say wormholes must be watched. I am right or not? Corver asked. You are right, Mr. President! The end out of wormholes must be a Cruiser or a Station.- Admiral Daron said. Very well! I say a cruiser. Then, the appearances of spaceships that dont use wormholes are totally random throughout Brana 2.- For that occurrence, 255 We must have a patrolling Army, or spy satellites. I guess both things, gentlemen!- President Corber said. The point is our forces arent as many as Federation of planets had.Mr.Tupine said. We must unite our forces! My forces are small: only six Cruisers left, isnt it, Admiral Daron? - The President Corber asked him. Yes, Mr. President! The first spatial Army only left one single cruiser before disappearing.- Daron said. We can build Cruisers, and they are costly. We cannot buy Cruisers in Earththats for sure now we are enemies.= President Corber explains. We need to unify forces and then talk with Federation of planet administrators. One Brana for the Federation of Planets, one for the Alliance of Planets. _ Chancellor Orson Corvallan said. I assume they want things by the force.- Mr. Tupine said. Thats why they made an alliance with Knappian. Who knows? My people is scant, our recourses short, but all our efforts will be directed to strengthen the Alliance. Tell to the others.- President Corber said. The meeting ends and Mr. Tupine finds Daron to tell him in private: Your president is fully committed in this rebuilding of forces. From here, we are going to the rest of Known civilizations. I have confidence that we will be doing things as planned. 256 I need people to make a colony on Knapp planets, Cruisers are already there.Daron said. Talk with your President. I am sure he will back up your ideas. Now I must part. Good luck!Daron asks a reunion with President Corber, and he gives a date fifteen days in the future. Daron insisted, but Secretary Rak Vorg was enraged with him for the ill treatment formerly received, and did nothing to shorten the delay.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Daron climbs to the Cruiser Tremendus and said: We will return to Knapp planet. Here they are ignoring us. Captain Ofter was waiting to hear such an order, so he obeyed promptly ; Myrna Lower said: My husband and I are divorced now- he asks my part of the Bell shaped spaceship to accept the idea, and I sent it back to him. My daughters Tina and Mariella dont want to be inside a spaceship during their youth, as they prefer to have fun and possibly marry with some youngster- so I am totally at your disposition, my love! You are making me the happiest man in this world, Myrna We will get married under Captain Lerches command. I am sure we will have a happy life together. I think we will.- She said, closing the door of their cabin and embracing him very tightly. Days later, the cruiser Intractatus leaves Domicilium orbit and speeded up to 257 a place to make the jump to Brana 2. At the Administration Building, Secretary of the War Rak Vorg approaches President Corber, saying: The Admiral Daron has departed, Mr. President. Well, now we could keep on with the treaty with the Federation of Planets. We are now in the first Brana, and so we belong to Brana one.- President Corber said, smiling- now the people will be indoctrinated to accept the pact with Federation of Planets; soon Cruisers from the Star fleet will arrive to protect the economy of Domicilium. President Corber expects great things with this pact- commercial interchange, tourists from all parts of the Brana one- things will change for better! CHAPTER 13 KNAPP PLANETARY SYSTEM. Ignoring the betrayal of President Corber, Daron arrives to the Knappian planetary system and finds everything as when he departed to Brana One. In the first virtual meeting with the captains, he finds that their bellicosity was subdued; a sensation of welfare was evident. They (the Knappian people) havent provoked us in any way- but we guess this calm is not natural. Somewhere they must be plotting against us- possibly they also are building warships!- Captain Geburt said. No need to have contact with them. Up until now, they are living their lives as usual but 258 Without space fleet. The transit between cities is as normal as before the war. There it is! We must forbid air travels between cities. If they didnt assume they are defeated, then well go for the next step: cut the ground trips. They certainly will suffer, and they will yield to our government. Think for a second in what will happen if today a big star fleet from Federation could appear: without ground support, attacked by the air and ground, our defense will be rather poor.Captain Shubaro said. Very well, then. We will send a notice to every Major city, stating which is our position here- especially to Rixiaberg that has been always very independent among the cities of Knapp.- Daron said. What are we going to do, if they ignore us?- Officer Cocodermo asked.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer We must alert the trespassers by radio, and if the pilot ignores the warning, some shoots of advertence. Beyond that, I assume there are two ways to deal with them: shoot and destroy, or capture the vessel with a tracking beam! We could have a place where to retain them as prisoners- Island 20 could be the best suited place, as it has people living there who could be of help in this matter.- Gemein said. Yes, perhaps we could get our colony with radio convinced people._ Daron said, without mentioning openly the brainwash they were performing at Island 20. 259 The reunion was closed by appointing a Committee that was going to be in charge of these actions. Daron went to a Flier with Myrna Lower, who said: Now we are going somewhere! This Knappian people are arrogant. Yes, they had never before lost a war.- Daron said, as the Flier takes altitudethey avoided the major cities and while they were looking how the coast was passing through the windows, altitude of the Flier 600 meters, they saw an object flying from the sea to the continental mass , leaving a trail fo dark smoke. What is that?- Myrna asked him, pointing with her hand. Daron saw the object as round with four wings; clearly it has a frontal windshield and at the center of the prow, several cannon-like tubes. Pilot! Hail the object!- Daron asked to the in- built driver, who said after a while: No response, Sir. But cracking noises could be heard. Follow it! Beware with those cannons.- Daron recommended. It was now approaching the jungle, altitude 700 meters. The Flier was traveling in the wake of it and some meters to the left, in order not to be stained with the exhaust, which was formed by stingy molecules of used fuel. This vehicle certainly is outdated! No way could it belong to the Federation.Myrna said. He kissed her, saying: Yes, it seems to be a civilian owner who purchases it long time ago. But its huge.About a hundred meters? Or more. Heavy, seems the material with which it is made is not the new ones. The aerial vehicle descended on the foothill of a huge mountain and stayed there. Shall we descend, Sir?- The pilot asked through a loudspeaker. Yes, it seems there are common people and perhaps in trouble at the inside of it.- Daron replied, looking at the exhaust that still was pouring smoke. The Flier descended 200 meters away, and it was dwarfed by the size of that spherical machine. The smell of that exhaust was strong, and Myrna said: Beware! It could explode! As she was finishing her phrase, the engines stops and the last column of smoke ascended in the air, to be dispersed slowly by the natural wind. It stops!- Myrna said. Yes, and we must see if somebody goes out. No need to rush.- Daron said, now standing on the ground. As it was midday, the heat was on- at least 27 Centigrade. She descends, taking 261 Her jacket away- she looks pretty, with a green blouse that shows her full breasts and slim waist, full hips and long perfect legs, with a short and pale brown shoes.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer You look wonderful.- He said, embracing the creature, that turns around while being embraced, brushing her buttocks against him- he said: you are superb! Oh, do you love me?- She asked, smiling. She was happy now that an important man was interested in her- not as before in her previous marriage, that Martin who was more interested in films and exhibitions than in her. She also was with sorrow about her two daughters, but also diminished by the fact they were almost grown up girls. She was well aware about what a woman and a mother should do when finding a new love: forget the old life, make new acquaintances and never seek the old male again. The hinges of an airlock resounded clearly at the distance, and soon a monstrous man appeared, walking around the sphere, he also looks at them and stared for a minute or so in their direction. Some other people also descends; they were using coffee green colored uniforms and a helmet finished in point, apart of the fact they were of common height. Daron weaved at them when he was sure they were looking at them. After a while, one of those humans walked towards them, but also did the monstrosity of a man, at least four meters high. 262 Daron begins to recognize the larger figure, and said: Its Tobor the Great! At fifty meters, he yelled: Professor Kolmer! Im Daron! The man unscrews his helmet and looks at them more carefully. Then he said something to Tobor the great, that stopped right there. Daron approaches, with Myrna by the hand, saying: Welcome, Professor Kolmer! What are you exploring here? Professor Kolmer said: Pardon me, but I scant remember you. Yes! You save us from your robot, and show us your inventions! Then we departed.- Daron said. Oh, I guess I remember! Well, Im here because I knew about a war that was being fought. My planetary system is backing up the Alliance of Planets. I have several good inventions- you already met Tobor, who is able to fight against thousands and he is able to do it because I designed it so!- Professor Kolmer said, without any atom of modesty. I am sure you are very valuable for our cause! Professor Kolmer, we had a place here that is already conquered. You can move your spaceship there; and we will pay for your inventions.- Daron said, interested in to know about the inventions and their use in this present situation. Yes, well, I recently landed here- some artifacts are worn our, before moving again, I need to make some repairs.= Professor Taylor Kolmer explained. 263 I had some Electronic Creatures robots that can help you, Professor!- Daron offered. Oh, dont you worry about it! I have three very wonderful male AB synthetic people, capable of to work without pause! So II am sure I will be able to move the Pegasus to your place soon enough! But you two are you traveling alone?- Professor Kolmer asked. We saw your airship and we follow it here.- Myrna explained. :Oh, well! I guess the repair will take several days- first we must disassemble and repair- then assemble again.- Professor Taylor Kolmer explains. Dont worry about this delay, Professor! I will call for some more guards! As you know, big predators could appear coming this way.- Daron said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer But I have Tobor the Great! I am sure he can deal with flesh and bone creatures- no matter how big they could be.- Professor Kolmer assure them, looking to his own spaceship as worried by something. Well, Professor! We are going now! I will be coming here to see you, later! Good bye.- Daron said, and the professor Kolmer returns to his spaceship, followed by his big robot. Do you think that Tobor- thing could really be of service, dear?- Myrna asked him, while. 264 They were flying back to the Twenty City at Island 20. There were seven other Fliers housing their crews- some of them had rooms at some houses, the populace loves them since the radio messages begins; also, the pilots and crews were also listening unconsciously those same brain washing melodies and words, so there was a very peaceful situation on the Town. Daron and Myrna also were being affected- there was no way to be there and resist the emissions. They talked with the people, and they receive meals and beverages; they were given shelter and where to sleep the night: in the bed, she whispered on his hear, so they could be not overhearing by some gadget: And why dont you use the radio transmissions to change people at Knapp city? They told me its not possible to change a big city behavior with only radio signals! It is needed a much larger field work, possibly drugs at the water pipes! Thats why well use the harsher method.- Daron said, kissing her. She moaned and embraces him kindly. In the morning, after a shower, they put on sport clothes and received a breakfast on account of their hosts, an older couple with a maid servant. We are very pleased with you both; here is a gift for your efforts.- Daron said, handling them a portable holographic set. 265 Oh, thanks you, Admiral!- Mr. Gokor said, bowing to see the set. Lets go to the Flier, dear! We are in retard to begin our daily chores!- Myrna said, and they get inside the Flier, flying to the Cruiser Intractatus. After their docking procedures, they walked to the main cabin, where Captain Lerche and officer Amacor were at their posts. Good morning, Admiral Daron and Madame Myrna! Good to have you on board! The messages to the main cities of this planet, pertaining to the prohibition of flights among cities, have been issued! We declare that this order will be not lift until more amiable relations could be achieved.- Captain Lerche said. Add to that message that if there are two cities accepting our rule, the flights among two or more friendly cities will be permitted.- Daron said. Very well, Admiral- our future hourly messages will include that generous offer.- Captain Lerche said. And did they answer to our radio messages positively or negatively?:- Daron asked him. Neither way, Admiral. Up to now, indifference is the norm. Aldo, there are some flights at the present- we hadnt shoot to kill- yet.- Captain Lerche said. Not good at all. Well be having blood on our hands- tomorrow. Well give them a day to think about this.- Daron said. 266

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Twenty three hours, dear- A day in Knapp has only twenty three hours.- Myrna reminded him politely. Of course. Twenty three hours, Captain Lerche, and try to convince them about this matter- I am not happy using the force.- Daron said. Hardly somebody does.- Myrna said. Theres a friend of us recently arrived to the planet, Captain Lerche. Is an inventor and a professor from Aurean planet. He has come on a personal private spaceship. His name is Mr. Taylor Kolmer. I wish you could send a Wagon Flier there, to secure the area from dangerous animals.- Daron ordered. Of course, Sir. Do you have the coordinates?- Captain Lerche asked. Latitude and longitude, as he is on the ground- ask it to my driver at the Flier, please.- Admiral Daron said. Soon afterwards, a Wagon Flier was sent, with seventeen Electronic Creatures fully armed for the protection of the inventor. He really confides on his robot. He surely looks big.=- Myrna said. Oh, yes! We sat it once, at Aurean city. Really impressive, but night and in an alley.- He remembered. The professor must be famous at his city.- Myrna said. To the contrary! He is not much known by the public- he prefers to deal with the government without much ado.- Daron informed her, who embraces him, saying: Just like you! A man who dislike publicity. And now you are here. Yes, with a lot of trouble to come!- Daron said, as his inner idea was that he will be in charge until the minute a large number of Federation starships arrive to end with the siege. Yes, guess hate will grow among them if we begin killing people.- Daron said. You are right. A slow invasion? Why dont you use radio signals? Brain washing? No matter if they are not everyone accepting us, the brain washing will act and they will be like puppets. They will be our friends.- Myrna said. Daron gives orders to irradiate the city of Knapp. 268 At the same time, trespassers (using Fliers) were being downed and their occupants taken prisoners and carried to Island 20 to Weiher City. Special care was exerted not to kill anyone. This change when some Fliers begin to be armored- they were downed and the Fliers lie wrecked on the ground for everyone to see. That was when the native people begin to understand they had a problem in their hands: the siege of their cities from the sky! The merchants begin to speak in favor of certain agreements with the invader, much to the grievance of nationalists. But these same nationalists begin to feel the lack of many goods in the passing of time- eight weeks and their ideas begin to change in favor of some kind of agreement. Daron as an open channel for to communicate with Knappian people, sending messages and some time music- not always discernible as the Knappian used scrambled radio emissions. Radio transmissions from the King Knapp 33, Sir!EC #72 said, an evening to Daron. So! They begin to get some sense! Lets hear it.- Daron said. It was a speaker, saying: This is 269

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer A royal message to the Invaders of the Neongos: You had come here to take revenge on us after 200 years our ancestors wave a war on you. We, the nephews of those heroes, had opposed your invasion to our worlds with our scant forces and we were defeated on the air, but not in the ground, as you can see daily. Notwithstanding that, and seeing how my people is suffering from this unjustified siege you had imposed on us,. To ease suffering to my people, I am doing a big sacrifice trying to arrive to some kind of armistice with you, to become In an understanding that could permit the renovation of commerce between cities. So, I am opening this channel for future conversations. That was all?- Daron asked. Yes, Sir. They want a reunion of sorts- perhaps a virtual reunion could be acceptable as the first meeting.- EC #72 said. Its a beginning, of course! - Daron said, and asks the Electronic Creatures to be present at that first reunion. A day after that first message, a virtual reunion was attended virtually. Daron and Myrna seats at the middle of a pair of Electronic Creatures, and at the opposite side, three members (not identified yet) from the Government of Knapp. Daron said: Welcome to this virtual reunion. I am Daron the Admiral of the Star fleet from the Neongos, and this is my wife, Myrna Lowell, and two Electric Creatures and Assistants of our Starfleet. 270 A tall man of some age said, from the Knappian people: We are Ministers of the Governor of Knapp; our King Knapp XXXIII. Our goal is to sign a treaty among you the Neongos, and us the Knappian people. We cannot keep on with this siege of yours, and we want to know what you want of us. - The one talking was a tall and fat man on his fifties, dressed in a blue uniform. EC #70 said: I am EC #70; the speaker of Admiral Daron, My chief wants several items remaining here on Knapp. One of them is to make you know the Neongos are here to stay, with the Admiral Daron as the new governor of the cities of this planet, asking and receiving the taxes, receiving goods as yearly token. In exchange, we will protect the worlds of this planetary system from external threats. The delegates from King Knapp XXXIII were spell bound and gasping. In simple words, the Neongos became their leaders and their goods and taxes were gong to be flown to some other planetary system. The group of Knappian said they must to discuss it with the King Knapp 33, and the virtual reunion was finished on the blink of an eye. 271 The response came a day later, when the Cruiser Generose was hit repeatedly by two C Beam cannons from the city of Knapp. The Cruiser, orbiting Knapp at 23 kilometers of altitude, was badly damaged but the crew manages to flee, not after sending thirty two photon torpedoes to the visible towers where the cannons were place. The torpedoes brought great destruction and produce a huge ball of ardent fire that eats up half the Knappian city- the central and east part, river included, killing more than thirteen million people, melted with the heat or boiled in the water. This was reported to Daron, who said: this populace attacked us after a peace talk; so they get what they were looking for.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer The fires were quenched four days later, shown black patches of destruction on the big city. The disorder was enormous, and columns of running people were seen by the roads that leaves town. They were going to Oxiborion, 240 kilometers to the east, using any means of locomotion they could lay hands onalso on foot. The Cruisers descended on Knapp city and takes the city using military Electronic Creatures; water and food were provided by the four Cruisers that landed on the blackened sites of death. Its a pity to be an invader.- Myrna said to Daron in their intimacy Yes, Im feeling like a bandit. Our people arent coming and also, they dont expect nothing much of us.- Daron said. The positive look on this is very simple: we are representing now the Alliance of planets, and we are trying to leave Knapp out of their communion with the Federation of planets.- Myrna said. Daron believe that was the way to look on thins, and the daily messages to the 272 Knappian populace was exactly that: Alliance for the Brana II. A month later, a Flier landed next to one of the Cruisers, with a thinned King Knapp asking to be received by the Admiral. Daron received him with guards at his side. I yield to the Alliance of Planets. I was wrong: Alliance is our destiny.- King Knapp XXXIII said, seated at the mess hall, in front of Daron, Myrna and Foren. I will not say our sad present begin two hundred years ago, with the destruction of Jerifordion society. I will say you must sign what you are offering, Your Majesty.- Daron said, knowing that mere words are easily carried away by the wind. I will sign. My proud is gone- I debt this to my people, to the thousands that die on the battle at Oredloro city.- King Knapp XXXIII said. Daron ask for a document where the King could be promising to belong to the Alliance of Planets and no other congregation of worlds, and then he said: King Knapp XXXIII, you are now our ally. The C cannons you have at the cities of Oxiborion and Rixiaberg must be handled to us. I dont mention Oredloro, because they were destroyed. But then, we are going to be left without any protection!- King Knapp 33 said. We are here to protect the entire planet, Your Majesty. Soon more Cruisers from the Alliance will surely arrive.-Daron said, but it was only his wishful thinking. The C Beam cannons were handled to Darons fleet, while they tried to repair the Cruiser Generose, but many a vital part werent available from the spare parts the rest of the fleet could provide. So, Daron said to Captain Goburt: Please go on your Directus to Domicilium, and bring us the spare parts we are needing to repair the Generose. You also must ask for more cruisers or perhaps smaller vessels, and Dylithium crystals, able people too! We are almost as sitting ducks in this planetary system.- Daron said. Very well, Admiral! Trust in me: I will 273 Be back before you know it!- Captain Goburt said, and hours later, his Cruiser departed to deep space at maximum speed.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Wish he could succeed, dear!- Myrna said, hand in hand with Daron, who said: We are advancing here, but very slowly. At this pace, our race will never know other place to live than Domicilium satellite!- Daron said, sadly. Come here!- Myrna said, smiling. His sadness fades away, after some kisses

CHAPTER 273 THE TRIP OF CAPTAIN GOBURT ABOARD THE CRUISER DIRECTUS. First officer Teteno was looking how near a rock in the space they had passed, and then said: EC #91! Are you day dreaming? You almost hit an asteroid! Nothing of the sort, first mate Teteno! I examine the radar: 23 meters was the distance.- EC #91 said. Please! thats nothing compared while we flight at 23.000 km. per hour! Teteno said, transpiring. Captain Goburt approaches and said: soon we will be free of this sad planetary system! We are wasting our efforts here! Teteno was sure it was so, but he cannot repeats it- as could be recorded and his promotion could be cancelled for ever. Admiral Daron has donned an excellent job- pity we are fighting for nothing.Captain Goburt assured him. 274 Suddenly, they saw the silvery disk of a spaceship coming from deep space; it zoomed past at great velocity. What was that? A spaceship! Very fast. Hail our force! Turn back!- Captain Goburt said, seating at his command post. Hailing.- EC #91 said. Tell them some big spaceship is going their way. We are returning to Knapp!Captain Goburt said. The voice of the guard at one of the Cruisers responds, resounding on the loudspeakers: Reception clear, Directus!! Unknown unclassified spaceship coming towards us! Red alert to all spaceships! Unidentified spaceship approaching!- The moment was tense. Class AS- 93 spaceship, Earth origin!- EC #70 said, after receiving the image. Powerful!- Captain Goburt said. Red alert! Enemy spaceship in front! Warp 8!- First officer Teteno said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Photon missile incoming! Evasive maneuver!- Officer Teteno said, while the Directus gives a jerk to the right, pressing everyone to their straps. LASER beams destroyed the Photon Torpedo almost when it was hitting the ship. The concussion was strong; the EC #70 fired three photon torpedoes against the enemy spaceship that soon reflected a lot of light, while the photon torpedoes were exploding against their force field. C- Beam incoming!- Officer Teteno said, and with his voice another sound was heard, like a seesaw working on metal. Hull breach! Send repair team outside! Evasion maneuvers!- Captain Goburt growled. The Directus turns around, escaping; the enemy spaceship keeps on approaching the Knappian planetary system. All functions are beginning to fail, captain Goburt! Option one: abandon spaceship!- Officer Teteno said. No! EC #70! Make the jump to Aquarii right away! - Captain Goburt said, expecting to get near to be helped before the whole ship became a wreck in space! The EC complies but using a already failing mechanism. The spaceship disappears in a flash of moving light- leaving Brana 2. New configuration of Stars were on the screens- Teteno said: Yellow star at reaching distance, Captain! Terraformed plant position Five! Targeted it! Lets try to reach the surface!- Captain Goburt said, looking at the controls- half of them were in red! Four hours later, the spaceship was descending through the atmosphere, leaving a trail of black smoke; Teteno chooses a plain among hills- he has no time to spare- the deflectors in full use, makes the spaceship stand on its eight legs with a fiery thumb that jerked the bodies of the crew like puppets on a box. In one piece!Teteno said, among gritting teeth. Revise all decks! Stop all engines!- Captain Goburt ordered. 276 Breathable atmosphere! Twenty one Centigrade, wind at six kilometers per hour; south west direction.- Teteno reads out load. Lets see the terrain! Ramp One out!- Captain Goburt ordered, walking out of the main cabin, feeling the natural gravity of the planet slightly bigger than he was used. There was an electric smell mingled with hot wiring. He walked to a sunny daythe sun was heating the prairie with his rays- notwithstanding this was the Fifth planet , and very distant to the giant yellow star, the heat was like in a hot summer day on Domicilium (or Earth.) Nice weather!- Teteno said, walking at his side. Yeah, well, guess well spend an agreeable vacation here- I mean, if the Electronic Creatures could repair the Directus. If not, we are the new colonists here.- Captain Goburt said. We receive a lot of damage.- Teteno said, when they were far enough to turn and look at the big bulk of the Cruiser, that stands there as an enormous ovoid with wings. The Electronic Creatures looks like yellow ants with their yellow uniforms walking up and down the hull, using magnetic boots. Its not as much damaged looking by this side- only a rip on top. Lets see the other side.- Captain Goburt said, fearing the worst was at the left side of it and

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer when arriving to a position suitable enough to see, he opened his mouth in astonished despair. A good chunk of the upper part was gone, leaving a scar forty meters long, eighteen meters wide. Inside he could see rooms without walls, part of the guiding system cables hanging down, the lights on the engine room and someone who waves to them with both arms. Its Tatender, the engineer, captain. Seems hes upset!- Teteno said. Well, Ill be also upset, looking my working place almost smashed to bits- Captain Goburt replied, and waved back, but now there were others moving their arms too- signaling to them. What the ..?- Teteno said, and when looking at his back, he saw something big coming their way. An aerial thing?-He said. But he was wrong- it was a huge box-like thing, but then appears a neck and the bulk of a chest- legs-arms hanging at the sides. A huge robot! Lets get back to the spaceship!- Captain Goburt said, but in his running he stumbles on a rock and twisted his feet. Captain! Let me help you!- Teteno yelled, helping him to stand- now Goburt was unable to run, but only to limp- they arrived to the damaged spaceship when the veritable monster of a metallic robot was a mere hundred meters from them! Take off! Take off immediately!- Captain Goburt yelled to the Electronic Creatures that come to help him inside the airlock. As they were in direct communication among them, EC #70, who was at the controls at the main deck, starts the engines and begin 278 To force the cruiser up and away, but not as fast enough, because the robot gives a big smashing blow on top, sending the Cruiser back to the ground with a smashed upper part. Fire at him!- Captain Goburt said, after recovering the air from his lungs, depleted after the crashing. No way, Captain! The cannons are not able to move anymore! Were sitting ducks!- Teteno said. The robot gives five other blows unto the doomed Cruiser, and then stayed there. Captain Goburt and his Natural crewmen was helped out by the Electronic Creatures still in function (seven) and descending by the bow, they run away from there. That giant monstrosity has no need to attack us!- Tetenos said, panting. Damn luck! Were stuck in here for ever!- Praecupidus (the gunner) moaned. Better alive than dead!- Captain Goburt said, while two Electronic Creatures were carrying him with their arms forming a kind of seat. One thins is for sure- our Admiral has one less cruiser from now on.- Biologist Ofuco said- he was a fat man with a beard. My Dylithium crystals! Hope somebody could find them and use it in the future.- Engineer Tatender growled with fury, while turning his head towards that gigantic robot. 279 Whoever built that monstrosity must have in mind some artifacts from the sky were to come. Because the very sight of our doomed Cruiser, he attacks!Captain Goburt said. It has radar and X ray eyes, Sir.- EC #70 said, surprisingly.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer So, it wasnt accidental that they appeared here smashing our means of locomotion.- Ofuco the biologist said. We must find the one who made this monster! I will tell him a couple of things!Tatender (engineer) said. Who knows? Perhaps they are tracking us right now!- Praecupidus said, looking to the four corners of the prairie. The grass grew higher and the ground became a swamp. Several channels of water were seeing before nigh fall. :Lets climb a tree, gentlemen! We could find the night a bit crowded.- Captain Goburt said, having seen shadows and sounds not totally provoked by the night breeze. They climb to three different kinds of trees, so they were separated by space and the darkness. There was a satellite appearing by night only that its passing was rather quick, so the angle of the light was changing constantly. They heard rumors of beasts trashing by the water and shrill cries of agony. They trembled and sweat the night away, but apart from that, they werent hurt when the pale light of a new day appeared through the branches and leaves. And to think I was sure we were going to be here just for a month! And now I guess we will be stuck here for ever!- Praecupidus said. Please dont think about the far future! Seems we have enough problems right now.- Goburt recommended. They were already walking by the dry sections; suddenly the terrain was better, higher, so the swamp was left behind. A rocky mountain walked around, and as the scope of view was greater, they could see a green sea of greenery, a jungle stretching to the visible horizon, with mountains raising there at the distance. They tasted some fruits they found hanging on trees; the whole of them were not almost ripe to eat, but they were hungry and replenished their stomachs with those at hand. They heard a rumor coming from the same point they were presently left behind, so Goburt said: something heavy coming this way, men! Lets spread and search for cover! They all didnt need to hear the name Giant Robot to find shelter- one behind a tree, other among rocks, Goburt and Teteno up on a tree, covered with branches full of leaves. The giant robots walked up to a kilometer away, and then stops. Another robot comes from the opposite direction; two big towers on a sunny day was troublesome to accept by this castaways of space. Two hours later, they had moved to a big mountain to the west, and walking 281 Around it, finds a shelter some 300 meters up the leveled ground, in the form of a cavern seventy meters deep into the mountain. Nice shelter. Hope theres not a sleeping bear at the end of the tunnel.- Goburt said. Its dark but I arrive to the end and theres nothing more than rocks, Sir.- EC #70 said. Fine. Now you stay at the entrance. Anything that comes up, you throw stones to it, right? Not a decent LASER rifle at hand!- Goburt said, leaning on the wall of rock. Soon it was dark- the wind was chilling but they were using the green uniforms and boots they wore on the spaceship, so they didnt suffer much.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Twice the EC s were busy throwing stones downhill- the second time with considerable more efforts. In the morning, Goburt went down to see what was the cause , finding a very mean animal almost buried by rocks. A real carnivore!- He said, whistling softly, because the animal has a long snout covered by bone shields and a mouth full of long sharp teeth- paws to match. A native saurian. Dinosaur?- Praecupidus said, kicking it with his boots. Yes, a dinosaur .Possibly on the Velociraptor clade. Not a fine bedroom fellow.- Ofuco said, taking a snapshot with his cellphone. 282 A clade is a group consisting of an organism and all its descendants. In the terms of biological systematic, a clade is a single "branch" on the "tree of life". The idea that such a "natural group" of organisms should be grouped together and given a taxonomic name is central to biological classification. In cladistics (which takes its name from the term), clades are the only acceptable units.

CHAPTER 15. AT THE FOREST ON FOOT. What? Do you pretend to give a lecture at your return to the University of Domicilium, doc?- Tatender asked him. Yes! Why not? Im sure well be out of here without a scratch!- The biologist (Ofuco) said, pocketing his artifact. Praecupidus said; This forest are real big! But my stomach hurts! The figs were not mature! Mature or not, something we must eat! I guess we must find tubercles! And we could boil them to see which one is nice to eat.- Ofuco said. I wonder where you are going to find a pot, doctor!- Goburt said. At the spaceship must be more than one usable casket or pot, Sir. We can go there and fetch not only that, but weapons as well.- EC #70 suggested. All of you? Yes. Better we go all of us- more chance that some of us return here, Sir.- EC #70 said. Goburt looked at the sun (yellow star) and said: Remember the night has his problems here on the wilderness.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer We wont forget it, Sir. I recommend you not to move too far from here. We must find you quick at our return.- EC #70 said. 283 Very well, one of you will remain- in that way, Ill be calling to you while you are away.- Goburt said, and EC #70 went away at a fast pace, leaving EC #89 behind. How many hours do you guess itll take for them to come back?- Goburt asked to the Electric Conscience. Two and a half hours going there and the same amount of time for the returnthe time the Cruisers remains should be called as uncertain- two or three hours- in all, I guess its eight hours in all.- EC #89 said. So they better get hurry!- Praecupidus worriedly said. A big growl startled them- they run away from that spot, hearing the same roar to the left. Seems they are hunting us!- Praecupidus said, turning very pale. Possibly! And possibly not. Lets mark this site, EC #89! We must return there before the Electronic Creatures arrives back. I have it on my database, no way I can forget.- EC #89 said, listening. Then he said: You were right, Mr. Praecupidus! There are two big hunters sniffing our way. We better leave quickly.- EC #89 said, tugging at Goburts arm. Sensing it was urgent to escape, Goburt follows the quick paced EC #89 ,who was now leading the way, jumping to the rocks he could find, not to leave footprints, a precaution the Normal people ignored to do. They found a creek, and the EC#89 said: We better walk by the middle of the stream, Sir. 284 They run for hours, until the growling finished being heard. EC #89 said; We outpaced them. But they were fast walkers and very decided. That seems to be the case.- Goburt said, leaning on the turf, others were sprawling on the ground, out of breath. I saw some fruits, while we were running. Could I go there to fetch you some?EC #89 asked. Yes, you can.- Goburt said, panting. They lay there resting one hour, and Praecupidus said: Why the EC didnt return yet? Dont hear him? He was to fetch us some fruits. - Teteno said, grunting: he detests Preaecupidus for his extreme worries about everything. Give the guy his time.- Teteno added.- Perhaps he could bring us some water melons!- And chuckled while imagining the EC full of melons on his arms. As the EC didnt return, they all went to seek for him, but he was nowhere to be found. A small but angered animal tries to bit them with his fangs- they kill them with sticks and stones. We better find something with what to defend ourselves, no matter if we must do it with a stick!- Daron said. They also cut branches, and make poles. Praecupidus attached a stone on his stick, so he could crash on heads more easily. 285 :The Electronic Creatures really is missing. Surely he gets confused, somehow, in a new environ.- Ofuco said. Confused? A robot made to last?- Engineer Tatender asked, in doubt.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Perhaps something struck it on the head!- Praecupidus said, but Tatender laughed, saying: There are no brains on an EC head! They had the thinking mechanism on their chests! They find a shelter of rocks near a ravine; the place has some boulders hard to climb, but they think they were secure up there. The night comes, and with the tiny moons crossing the night sky very rapidly their light soon was out. A profound darkness exists on the ground but not among the upper parts of the jungle, as the starry sky was providing rivers of light. The patterns of the stars were different to what the castaways were accustomed to see or remember. They could not identify a single constellation in the heavens. We must be really far into the deep, Captain! No signs on that sky that gives us a clue of where we are.- Teteno said from his branch. I give up trying to find a path. We are way inside the Unknown. Our footsteps are crying our desolation.- Tatender said. Profound words.- Praecupidus said. Not mine! But of some poet, whose name I forgot.- Teteno said, and it was one of many poems he cherished from the time he was a school boy. They heard scratching at the rocks, like something trying to climb. They take the clubs and forcer their eyes to see in the darkness. They imagine figures milling down there, but nothing was climbing. Goburt stayed there hour after hour, until dawn appears and the scratching ended with it. 286 They descended, and eat some fruits- they had enough hungry, but their stomachs were beginning to refuse that food- they were vomiting soon afterwards. We are returning to our first encampment, or the Electronic Creatures will not find us.- Goburt said, knowing those entities should already arrived. They wander about, forgetful of where they previously stand- they hollered and wait. At noon, Goburt was saying: The Electronic Creatures cannot fail all in unison! We will wait, but also we must eat. Lets see if we can eat meat. They smiled. They had seen bird like creatures, and knows there were predators- some of them taller than themselves. Lances and maces! We are walking back to our Prehistory!- Goburt commented. We should walk back to the Cruiser, now we saw the Giant leaving that site.Ofuco (the biologist) said. Remember theres nowhere to hide, around there! We will be in the open!Praecupidus said, worried again for their future. Yes! We must know what happens with the Electronic Creatures!- Goburt said. They drink at a creek, and begin retracing their steps: first, round the big mountain, and then along the wooden valley. Almost at dark they saw the smashed bulk of the Cruiser, towering over the grass. They hurriedly went inside, and blocked the entrance with metal sheets that abounded 287 As the robot had smashes whole sections of the spaceship.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer They were in the darkness- but secure. Goburt slept and snored half the nightoutside, scratching and some far away trumpeters scaring the night. At the next morning advisable because there were small holes and cracks that permitted the pass of the light- they talked before going out. We are at home here, Captain! We could forage around- or far- but always returning!- Praecupidus the gunner remarked, hoping to be heard, no matter he was now changing his mind. Well see if we find a way to make some generator working! And then, a food processor! Hunger is our problem- apart than to find where to boil water. That was an easier task, and soon they find, among the wreck, several pieces of the once shinning Cruiser, where to cook. Ofuco, the biologist, finds several kinds of tubercles and they were boiled under the sun, on a pan with water. The tubercles proved non eatable. Goburt and first officer Teteno crawled among curved walls and finds two LASER rifles; one of them cracked, so it was no use they could shot with it; the other one was in good shape and gunner Praecupidus takes it, saying: I have good marksmanship , so let me use this and I will provide food, Captain!All right, but Tatender will go with you- four eyes see more than two.- Goburt said, very worried by the unseeing perils existent: the disappearing of the remaining Electronic Creatures was an issue he could not forget at any moment. Tatender and Praecupidus gets into the woods two hours later- they trotted part of the way- and soon they begin encountering, finding small animals not mammals- and after seven kills- the animals were not scar of humans- they tied them and carried to the Cruiser wrecks. Teteno, the first officer, was working hard trying to recuperate batteries and other elements after much struggle, he set some lamps using the energy of some leaking batteries. At least we have light in this metallic cavern!- Teteno said, munching a piece of meat- the animals were stripped of their coat of arms or thick cover of scales, and it tastes like chicken. They smiled and eat after several days of fast; Goburt congratulates the gunner for this, and said: I will not complaint about the fault of salt! Well search for it!- Praecupidus said, imagining them going to the sea, only glimpsed before landing. Teteno said: wish we could find our Electronic Creatures! With them in here, I would have Assistants working day and night long! Theres no way to know where to find them! I had one of them in reserve: but silly me, I accept him to depart in search of fruits!- Captain Goburt remembered. 289 With that said, everyone went to their corner- some insulating material was disposed on the floor. To have one or two lights burning gives them confidence for the future. In the morning, the hunters for the day (Gunner Praecupidus and biologist Ofuco) departed to the woods, with the only LASER rifle available. Captain Goburt, engineer Tatender, first officer Teteno begin working at the Cruiser, trying to clear corridors and opening sealed doors between hauls and rooms. After six hours work, they seat at the shadow of the Cruisers hull, to much some previously roasted meat.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer Its clear we only had access to the remains of the super radio; to the second inferior section of the cargo bay, the now useless half part of the C Beam Generator (Section 3) the useless quarter part of the nacelles (section 4) and the hauls five and six, where spare parts and some cargo is available, plus the eight cryogenic pods, now without energy power. The bow is totally smashed and cut in half.- Captain Goburt enumerates. You forget the metal and alloy pieces around the spaceship.- Tatender said, smiling sadly. Yes, I didnt mention it- of course- its metal and alloy. Perhaps useful to make knives and lance points.- Captain Goburt said. 290 They open two doors and as the others were fixed and cannot be moved because of the bending of superior structures. The ventilation system was left devoid of fans and cables, in order to make small corridors so they could gain access to all the inferior sections of the Cruiser Directus. They find many useful tools and mechanisms, such as LASER cutters, tools, batteries, cables (this in sections B1, B3, B4 and C4 sectors) and the hauls five and six at the inferior sector Section six is almost entire for us to use! The pity is that tubes and electronic equipment arent available for us- because we have not energy generators- for now, we cannot make it usable.- Tatender said. They get back to work until twenty one hours. Outside, gunner Praecupidus and doctor Ofuco were roasting meat. Captain Goburt arrives there, saying: I see you get more animals today. Did you know to which kind of animals they belong, doctor? :Its not easy to answer, Captain. Certainly they are like insects among the big dinosaurs. These ones are related to the Phylodon and the Velociraptor, but they are not the classical dinosaur that appears on the holographic information films. Look here: this was the heart; those other ones the bowels.- Dr. Ofuco said. Well, I am used to hear that same explanation when comparing extinct dinosaurs from Earth and the living and kicking presently on planet Knapp. By the way, what do you suppose happens on Knapp planetary system between our feeble Armada and that Behemoth starship from the Federation lore?Captain Goburt asked. No idea!- Biologist Ofuco said, not willing to think of that. 291 You see, captain, here we could forget about that war. We are about as lost as a crab on top of a mountain.- Praecupidus said, cutting a slice of meat and offering it to Goburt at the point of a thin bar of steel. Good.- Captain Goburt said, but in his inner self, missing badly the salt in it. He was longing for salt, and tried to remember how far they were now from the beach- if necessary, he would walk to the beach to obtain it. That night, they slept in separated rooms or- and hauls- the corridors permits now to walk the four hundred meters that Cruiser has in it s better good times. The bow side was secured using metal sheets screwed with care; no animal could crawl inside now. Goburt awakes in the middle of the night, hearing the profound gurgling and final roar of a big specimen of dinosaur, possibly a hundred meters from the Cruiser- as he has at the bow recently repaired side, the sound comes to him

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer easily by the cracks of the reparation and in the dark, he has a sudden terrified moment of panic. When he realizes where he was, he returns to the light- at the cargo section, where some of his crew was snoring comfortably. He lie on a couch, and soon was asleep. In the morning, he walked out of the wrecked remains of the cruiser, trying to find the footprints of that powerful creature- he finds it near a creek- a eighty centimeters long, sixty centimeters wide 292 Imprint where there was mud. He looked at the woods in awe- possibly that creature was a nigh scavenger- but also, nothing could prevent it to hunt in plain daylight! Goburt walked silently among the trees, and soon he saw what appears to be a mound of greenish color- that moves slightly up and down. The bush hides what should be the head with utmost care, he keeps on approaching and going around it, to see the head- but no, it was only a big long tail, with several spikes protruding sixty centimeters from the scale body of it. Now he was not very interested in searching for the head, so he tip toed back to the Cruiser, finding two other beasts sleeping their terrible dreams under the morning light. He made a draw on the dust, to show the Biologist Dr. Ofuco to analyze it, and calling for them to see the draw, he said: This is what visited us last night, and now is sleeping at the woods, not a kilometer away. Ofuco the biologist said: So you tell me this creature measures about twenty meters long? Yes, doctor- a terrible beast.- Goburt replied. Seems to me like a Iliosuco. Who knows for certain?- Dr. Ofuco said, looking at the woods and thinking it was very dangerous to be there, and added: And to think our hunter, Mr. Praecupidus, loves to hunt in the woods. Yes, but he walks down the valley and enter the wood several hundred meters far from here.- Tetenos said, approaching. Right.- Praecupidus said, after him. There are big animals near this site. Take that in consideration when hunting.Captain Goburt recommended. 293 Yes, captain! I had seen them sleeping- and twice running after those small Velociraptor- thats why Im using branches and leaves as camouflage. They cannot see what they cannot divide!- The gunner said, taking a chunk of meat to eat. One hour later, he and Dr. Ofuco were gone to hung, after Goburt said: Each one to their task!, and with Teteno and Tatender begin working on a half buried Flier, at Inferior Sector Five. Goburt makes a generator starts after several days of work. The wiring had to be worked out- that takes three other weeks. In that time, Praecupidus was killing bigger animals, and the Engineer makes a freezing chamber at sector 6 first deck- huge chunks of meat hanging among dead generators and bars. Once each seven days they all went to hunt, for the exercise of it. The only LASER rifle was used only with short burst of energy, to economize its charge and prevents its fusing out. The fruits were ripening, and most of it was edible now. The castaways could eat without getting sick.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer We must repair the radio, Mr. Teteno. A simple one- a signal for anyone who could hear it from space.- Captain Goburt asked of him. Are you sure? Remember what means the Ronots and the sudden disappearing of so many electronic creatures (EC) ! Somebody with technical mechanisms is here and dont want competition.- Teteno said. Possibly right. And we could leave that radio some kilometers away- no matter we had it in here.- Captain Goburt said. At the cave in the mountain? Dr. Ofuco asked. Could be there- well notice their presence.- Goburt said, and looks how they think about it. He added: With a radio receptor. We receive waves here, but we send the message at the mountain. They accepted the idea, and in the next three days several parts at the prow were dismantled, to find the necessary equipment. Finally, a small battery and the radio broadcast were tested- the receptor proves it was working. We will leave the transmitter on the Dark Mountain. Ill call like that to make us all understand of which mountain we are talking about.- Goburt said. He and the gunner Praecupidus walked with the necessary gear for the installation of the transmitter. The morning was cold, and on the weeds there were drops of dew. Far away, the mountains were seen as gaseous accumulation of clouds. There are three predators beyond those bushes.- Praecupidus warns him about. You have the LASER rifle.- Goburt retorted, disliking the situation. 295 Dont you worry- Ill handle this situation.- Praecupidus said, and keeps on walking. Suddenly, one of the predators was in sight: the other two were gone. Praecupidus said: You see one of them? Where are the others? Guess they are running to the sides.- Goburt said, but no matter how he looks, he cant find their bulks on the high grass. Guess well have to stop- but also, this critters could wait for hours.Praecupidus said. Goburt seats on the ground, saying: Lets disappear as they had donned- lets crawl to the left- Im sure well find one of them trying to outflank us. Yes, I like the idea.- Praecupidus said, and both men begin to walk with their backs as low as possible. Soon they heard an animal panting nearing- Praecupidus raise the muzzle of his rifle, and fired when he saw the dark figure of a Velociraptor (native) advancing- the fiery ray cuts the neck of the beast, that choked with his own blood and begin to kick at the earth with its hind legs. They keep on advancing to the left, and then to the right. Twenty minutes later, they look back and there were no signs of those predators in sight. Guess well have only two predators waiting for our return!- Praecupidus said, and Goburt remembered all the weapons he ahs on the Cruiser that were smashed to bits or soldered together with the blows that giant metallic monster of a robot gives. Hours later they were on the slope of the Dark Mountain, named like that because big blue and black boulders protruded up until the summit. The cavern was approached and the radio transmitter was set inside, with the antenna on the outside.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer And now, lets broadcast!- Goburt said, connecting a wire. A blue green light lighted on the contraption, and Praecupidus said: I would wait here for the morning, Captain! The night will catch with us walking by the prairie, if we try to return now. Goburt sees the reason on his words, but also remembered how the Electronic Creatures fights with creatures the last time they were there, so he said: I prefer to get back running, if necessary, than to remain here, or do you see in the night, to fight the incoming beasts our Electronic Creatures fought the last time we were in here? Praecupidus stand up, saying: All right, Captain! You are in command. Lets start running now! And both of them descend the slope jumping and running; keeps on running and arrives without too many scratches. Im dead tired!- Growled Praecupidus, going to his place, where he lie to sleep. And, captain? How was your trip?- Engineer Tatender asked. Well, I must say we did it on the run.- Goburt said, and they laughed, as they saw them running through the prairie. 297 We are receiving the message. Hope we could get some help in the future.Ofuco the Biologist said. Goburt takes a piece of meat to eat, and went to the prow, to hear the radio receiver. The message was a simple Blip, repeated at aeternum, and he looked outside by a new window the technical team had donned on a corner. The night was there, and terrifying noises could be faintly come from the woods. He smiled- they were living in the wild, a thing always end when humans takes the control Goburt awakes in the morning hearing a strange sound out of the refuge- he looks through the small window- the field was there, with the green tall grass shining with drops of dew. He walked and crawled to the other extreme of the wrecked spaceship, finding the engineer and the first officer looking out by an airlock recently repaired. Theres some mechanism outside.- Tatender said, turning his head towards the captain. The robot?- Goburt asked, feeling himself terrified. Not the robot- a truck of some sort.- Teteno said, whispering. Goburt saw the vehicle: it has wheels and it was like a cylinder with a tower on top- twelve meters long, three meters high. The sounds come again- like a chain begging drawn over bars- it was the engine. The vehicle approaches the prow, and from 298 A door, three persons descended- they were slim, 1.70 mt. high, and totally humanoid. We must take that vehicle for us! Lets capture it now that those persons are looking at our spaceship!- Goburt said, running out with his big stick. As he was without shoes, his running was rather silent; he saw the three persons disappear while turning to the other side of the wreck- he jumped up to the truck, and finding a person at the controls, he just hit hard on his head, which banged on the controls, so the machine begin to move forwards. Both engineer

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer and the first officer appear, and jumping inside, they said: what? Are you taking us for a ride? Help me take this person out of here!- He said, tying to take the driver from his seat- it was tied by a belt- they discover the pilot was a woman, as she has developed breasts and wide hips. Totally unconscious.- Tatender said, dragging her down the corridor- after left her lying there, Tatender opened doors to the sides, finding beds and other small compartments full of clothes. At the turret, he finds a sophisticated radio receptor, tuned on the familiar blip sounds that were coming from the Black Mountain By then, Goburt was in total control of the truck; he turns around, stepping on the accelerator; the two figures previously seen were standing on the way, apparently trying to discern what was happening with the driver. 299 If they are women- well grab them and make us prepare our meals!- Tatender said, preparing to jump out of the vehicle; the persons begin running to the side where the truck first come- Goburt accelerated, and soon Tatender and Teteno were out the truck and chasing them. Goburt stops the truck in front of them to see the en result- the persons struggled fiercely , so both crewmen had to hit them hard- soon they were dragging them to the truck. Women, all right!- Tatender said, hurling one of them up the truck. Strange situation! They sure think it was us who were sending radio signals, so they come here! Not too sophisticated, as we first thought!- Goburt said, ads they were thinking the watchers will triangulate the radio emissions, finding the source at the Black Mountain- but no: knowing there were survivors from a spaceship, they come to see the site, to discover if in reality or in fact, survivors could be sending messages of distress. What with them, captain?- Teteno asked him. Well see about them.- He said, parking the truck near the airlock; both men takes the three women and locked them inside. Goburt said: I will leave this vehicle at the woods- Im sure somebody will come here to look for it!- And he drives to the woods. He stopped the truck among two big trees, 300 Hiding it more properly with branches and leaves. He also search in the interior, finding fire arms like old fashioned bullet throwers, guns and two rifles. Afraid not to find the truck again, he carries it back to the Cruiser, leaving it near the entrance. What happens, Captain?- Tatender asked, looking at him from the ground. I change my mind! Better to have this vehicle here- its a gift.- Goburt said, and stopping the noise engine, he shows the weapons to the crew. Good! Now we are stronger than before! But what to do if those Giants return?- Teteno asked him. If they sent us the robots, well show them the girls.- Goburt said, grinning savagely. When the hunters come back, they were intrigued to see a truck on front, and while they wasted a thirty kilogram Equinodon (or his similar) they talked about what they did. I just banged her head! I didnt know she was a woman.- Goburt said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer But, are you sure this persons are really women?- Doctor Ofuco asked. Look for yourself, doctor! Hope they are not synthetic females.- The engineer said, taking him by the arm and guiding him to the ladies , who were at the most illuminated room of the Cruiser- one of them was awake but not really recovered, and the other two were passed out- but alive. Guess you beat them too hard.- Doctor Ofuco said, looking at their skulls. 301 They fought us bit time, Doctor!- Tatender said, showing him some marks on his arms. Dr. Ofuco revised them, saying: Normal breasts, nice p, five fingers in each hand, teeth to match. Women, all right. Mating season in one week.- Too much time to wait, Doctor! I guess I will spend my honeymoon this very day!- Tatender said, but of course, he was only joking. Goburt said; This night we must watch carefully. I will be on the truck. If something comes to the rescue of these women, I will start the engine and well run away with the women. They accepted the idea, knowing perfectly well that those behemoths of science could end with the rest of the Cruiser in minutes. Goburt seats at the chair of the truck, after closing the door. By the front glass shield, he could saw the twin moons traveling the night sky in just one hour elapsed time. After that, the saw crawling figures rummaging by the long grass. He suddenly lit the front light that shows which kind of creatures were those, and they were Sarcolestes. After a while, he was certain the truck was safe against those creatures, and walked through the rooms, looking its contents. The places suitable to sleep were three- beds of primitive design, with sheets and woolen pieces of fabric. Boxes with some pairs 302 Of shoes, dresses on drawers, cosmetics and perfume. The three bedrooms were very similar. The other rooms contain canned food deserts and a stove, working on the electricity provided by the same truck. Other room has tools as to repair minor damages on the truck, some spare parts and volumes with writings he didnt or couldnt comprehend. It was neither Interlingua, Knappian, Neongographs nor anything he could know. Most probable these people ignore everything about other races in the Universe.- He growled to himself. He said to Teteno, in the morning: Take those beds over here- we need them. All right, Captain!- The First officer said, asking Praecupidus for help- they use tools to dismantle beds and mattresses out of that vehicle. Tatender said to Goburt: Ill take a look to that rumbling engine. Hope I could see why its so noisy.Suit yourself, but see that you dont spoil it.- Goburt recommended. After the change of mattresses to the Cruisers wreck, Praecupidus went to hunt with the biologist Ofuco, who now had a LASER pistol from the truck owners. He also studied the animal and vegetal life at the forest, doing drawings for his own archive. To many of them, not having resemblance with known animals he gives names to them, and one of the first was using his own name (Ofucosaurus).

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer 303 The Ofucosaurus has a large head with two horns directed up; a pair of terrible paws armed with large nails; the nozzle large and the fangs full of triangular teeth in a double row. The tail had the same large than the body, and ended on six sharp spikes; the large of it was twenty five centimeters each. It was a good runner, walked on two feet as the predator it was, with sixty centimeters long, fifty centimeters high. That day he hunt three of them, tided an brought to the encampment at nineteen hours. Ofuco lit a fire and soon they were roasting hig chunks of meat on stakes near the fire. By that time, the three women were feeling better, but they were tied to the beds, not to permit them to escape, and separate one from the others, not to permit them to share information and also prevent them to make plans for a future escapade. Ofuco revised them every morning and evenings; he said to Captain Goburt: The ladies are recovering. Good to hear that. Sorry we hit them too hard.- He replied. It was the only solution! They were like wild cats trying to escape!- Ofuco said, 304 Goburt seats at the side of the woman he believes most comprehensible and tranquil of the three. She has no more than twenty years of age and was tied to the bed. Do you understand me? - He asks her in three standard languages he knows. The woman looked at him and said nothing in return. From where do you come? - Goburt asked, in Interlingua- still dont answer came. He offers her some meals that were on a table, but she refuses everything. Goburt understand that she was very upset, so he walked out to the sun and said to the others: these women will not speak to us, but they surely will talk among them. Put them together, in an interior room. Sure, Captain!- Replied Teteno, the first officer, and went inside the site to comply with the order. Soon their attitude changes- it begins by speaking among them- Goburt write some words he heard on a paper: lapedo, lacus, globossus, egomet, arepo, credulitas,. He finds nobody on the group could understand those words. Its an alien language.- Gunner Praecupidus said. I am sure they knew about spaceships coming to this planet, and for some reason, they dont want aliens 305 In this planet! - Ofuco said. Goburt returns to visit the woman, now on a same room with the other two companions from the truck. One of them said; Fucus imdex. Goburt said: you must try to understand my language.- And he pointed to several items on that room, repeating the names in Interlingua. When he finished, one of them (the one with the wound still visible on his head) said: Necessitas pabulor. And pointed to her mouth. Goburt went out, and said to Praecupidus: Try to fetch some food to the women; they recovered their appetite. You are a genius, Captain!- Praecupidus joyously said, taking a chunk of meat and a knife.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer That night, they heard womens talk and smiled one to another- the sexual attraction did exist, and Goburt had it clear in his mind that a sexual relationship must born between them (males) and their prisoners (females) but not by imposing themselves or rape. He presents himself again unto the ladies, talking and trying to teach them to speak in Interlingua. They just heard but dont repeat the words he was saying. When going out, one of them said: Expositio. He was sure that they will yield to their capturers, given the necessary time. He arrives to his mattress at the prow, and lie to sleep. 306 Before dawn, he heard noises and walking through corridors in the darkness he saw figures at the distance- the room of the women was in turmoil... He saw some of his crewmates mating with the women by force- he yelled to stop but was hit by someone and fell to the floor. When he awoke, with a swollen head, he finds the women werent at the beds nor his crew or the truck outside. They also take the LASER rifle and belongings. He walked out and around the wreck- nobody was in sight, and as his head throbs with every pace he gives, closed the door and went to his bed- at the prow. He just doesnt want to think in the cruelty they had donned to the women- and also unto themselves! Hours of sleep give s him the release of his throbbing head. He feels better, normal and walked around the corridors and tunnels, looking what he had and what he was missing- when he also heard the radio receiver doing noises. He was transfixed- he heard saying: Coming. Out. And then it was silence. He jumped out of the wrecked spaceship, looking at the sky. It was a sunny day, almost without clouds. There was nothing in the sky, but soon those persons- whoever they were- will be landing- at the Black Mountain! Goburt takes a bag and his metal rod and walked by the prairie hunch backed in order to prevent dangerous animals seeing him. Several times he heard the peculiar calls of Velociraptor, and also in one occasion, heard the running feet of a beast towards him- pr0obably guided by his human body smell. Running, he approaches the Dark Mountain when the aerial spacecraft begin to descend near the cave and the radio transmitter; it bumped and stayed still on four metallic rods. The size was seven meters high, fifty two meters long, oblong and half rusted with green glass windows on front and sides. A door hinges out and a ramp descends to the ground with a final thud. A woman appears, up there on the threshold, looking feminine on a pink dress of glossy appearance- she smiled hen looking at the disheveled and wild looking Captain Goburt, and others appears there. Thanks to have come down to see who the culprit of the distress was! I am Goburt, captain of a starship from Domicilium Republic that is smashed on the ground not many kilometers away from here!- He said. Yes, we heard the message! Im Martin Gomez, and these are my daughters! Are you from Domicilium planet? Yes and my companions have left me alone, when finding some native women!- He said, handshaking them. Hi! Im Mariella Gomez! One of the ladies said.

Knapp 21 Daron Hinauer He was stunned to realize this same group was known, once, by the Admiral in one of his flights and now he was being saved by them. He smiled awkwardly and said: Well, Mariella, I really am happy your father takes the time to descend. Thanks for to come here after hearing the distress call! She embraces him, with watery eyes, saying: Yes, you are saved now!

The end.