A few days later.
Sitting on a couch inside one of the rooms was Elizabeth, watching with fascination the screen that adorned the wall. On it, the reconnaissance drones' recordings displayed an impressive landscape of the planet, full of vibrant colors and unknown shapes. It was natural for her to feel captivated; her world did not know this type of advanced technology, and each image was a reminder that this place was unknown and mysterious.
After everyone shared their thoughts, a plan of action was proposed. Dr. Richards, with his usual seriousness and dedication, would be responsible for making the necessary repairs to the ship that Clark had brought. At that moment, he was absorbed in his work, delicately adjusting the circuits and ensuring that everything worked perfectly.
Superman, with his calm and trustworthy voice, suggested conducting a reconnaissance outside the planet. His ability to move through space surprised many, some more than others. With a powerful thrust, he took off into the starry sky, leaving behind a trail of light that promised to uncover what awaited them beyond their temporary home.
Goku, with his energetic attitude, mentioned that he would take care of sensing the presences in the environment, in case anyone else appeared on the planet. During his outings, he not only searched for potential threats but also took the opportunity to train, pushing his own limits vigorously. Each time he returned, he would talk about the different creatures he had encountered, each stranger than the last.
Rías, although she did not possess the skills of the others, offered her unconditional help. She volunteered to be the cook, feeling it was the least she could do to contribute to the group. Everyone who tasted her food felt grateful to the girl, especially Goku, who ate excessively.
Elizabeth, however, felt out of place. Despite her desire to help, she could not contribute like the rest. After asking Goku a few questions, she began to understand what it meant to live in different worlds. Each person in that place emanated a unique aura, an energy that reflected their experiences and abilities.
Dr. Richards seemed to her to be an extraordinarily intelligent and committed person. His way of speaking and relating to others made him appear to be a natural leader, someone one could trust.
Superman, although she met him briefly before he left for space, left a lasting impression. His blue suit and red cape gave him a heroic presence radiating confidence, and Elizabeth could not help but feel more secure knowing he was there.
With Rías, the feeling was different. Although her presence reminded Elizabeth of the demons that threatened her kingdom, she could not help but see in her character the grace of a princess or a woman of high society. There was something in her way of acting that seemed noble and worthy of admiration.
And with Goku, with his enthusiastic attitude and kind demeanor, he exuded an air of an indomitable warrior who would never give up in the face of adversity. Of all those present, it was Goku with whom Elizabeth felt most confident and comfortable, as if his positive energy enveloped her in a warm embrace that evoked memories of the past.
"Knock, knock, knock."
The sound of soft knocks interrupted her thoughts, and seconds later, the door to the room opened, revealing a red-haired girl with a determined look. Her hair shimmered with flashes of light, and her expression conveyed a mix of confidence and determination.
—Excuse me, I'm coming in —announced Rías, with a courtesy that seemed innate to her, as if each word was imbued with deep respect.
Rías wore a light outfit consisting of a long-sleeved sky-blue blouse, which contrasted with her pale skin, and a flared black skirt that moved gently with each step. Her elegant and comfortable shoes completed a look that was both practical and stylish.
In the facilities where they were, there were changing rooms filled with uniforms and clothing for scientists, but she had used her magic to alter the shape of the garments, creating an outfit that reflected her vibrant personality.
—Eh, there's no need to be so formal. After all, this place isn't a palace —Elizabeth replied, trying to make the girl drop the distant attitude that, although polite, felt somewhat uncomfortable to her.
Since she had arrived, Rías had maintained a courteous posture toward her, much more than with the others. Elizabeth, still a bit insecure, wondered if perhaps that formality was a reflection of her own shyness. The room, with its white walls and the soft hum of scientific equipment, seemed to amplify the nervousness that enveloped her.
—It may not be, but the rules of etiquette are important. It was the first thing my mother taught me —Rías replied softly, her voice like a whisper that filled the room, caressing the air with a delicacy that was almost palpable.
Elizabeth felt a slight spark of connection. Both had been raised in nobility, in worlds where manners were as essential as the air they breathed. However, despite their similar origins, there was a barrier that she had not managed to cross.
—I apologize —Elizabeth said, bowing her head slightly, feeling the weight of her own reserve.
—You have nothing to apologize for; you haven't done anything to warrant it —Rías replied, surprised by the girl's gesture.
—I genuinely want to apologize. The reason is that since I arrived, I've tried to avoid you all this time while you've tried to be kind to me —Elizabeth spoke sincerely, her eyes reflecting an unexpected vulnerability. —The truth is I tried to stay away because I didn't feel completely safe being around you. So, again, I apologize for my rudeness, Miss Rías.
Rías narrowed her eyes, surprised by Elizabeth's honesty. She sat down beside her, and the atmosphere became more relaxed.
—You don't have to apologize to me —she said, her voice warm and understanding—. I also felt a bit uncomfortable when you arrived.
The sincerity in her words resonated with Elizabeth, who was surprised to hear that Rías had her own reservations. But that was a topic for later; there was something else that intrigued her.
—You're not human, are you? —she dared to ask, curiosity overcoming her caution.
A magical power emanated from Rías, a dark aura that evoked memories of someone Elizabeth had come to care for. The red-haired girl squinted at the question, and her voice became soft, almost like a whisper in the darkness.
—No, I'm not.
The revelation hung in the air between them, laden with meaning.
—You know... in my world, demons like me are judged before they are known —Rías confessed, her tone heavy with sincerity—. I suppose I'm not so different from you after all.
Elizabeth blinked in astonishment; the girl's confession made her feel embarrassed about herself. Looking down at her hands with regret, she asked:
—And how did you manage to get them to see... beyond what you are?
She spoke, appearing remorseful, but the interest was palpable in her voice. Rías laughed with melancholy.
—With patience. And some stubborn friends who refused to give up on me... Maybe here we can be that for each other.
The conversation between the two lightened the atmosphere. Elizabeth felt that the conversation was just beginning, and that, perhaps, through this talk, they could build a bridge between their very different worlds.
---
Inside the Hangar.
Inside the facilities, an imposing hangar housed the ship that had been moved there following Dr. Richards' instructions. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation for the work ahead. Reed was focused on the wing of the ship, using holograms to scan its functions. The ship's advanced and sophisticated technology had inspired Reed to replicate some of its features with the limited resources at his disposal.
—Computer, start flight simulations —Dr. Richards ordered to the artificial intelligence he had programmed himself.
As the AI began projecting holographic images, the hangar filled with lights and futuristic sounds. After a few minutes, the simulations stopped, showing an effectiveness rate of 85%. Reed frowned, dissatisfied with the result. He knew they could achieve more and returned to concentrating on the ship's circuits, his mind racing.
Suddenly, a sharp sound resonated in the air, like a familiar echo. It was the sound of Goku's teleportation, who appeared a few meters from the spaceship. His presence always brought a mix of energy and enthusiasm.
Goku was dressed in a combat outfit reminiscent of the dogi he used to wear, though in a different color. He wore a sleeveless sky-blue shirt over a t-shirt, loose black pants, and a fabric belt. He had searched the changing rooms for something he liked, but nothing seemed versatile enough for him. Rías, with her magic, had suggested he could change the shape of the garments, but the color remained an obstacle. Still, Goku settled for what he had.
—Hey, Reed! I'm back with the ones you asked me to find! —Goku shouted, raising his voice a bit to make sure he was heard.
Reed, absorbed in his work, looked up and replied without taking his eyes off his task.
—Leave it there; I'll analyze it soon —he said from his position, with part of his body stretched over the ship's wing while his feet still touched the ground. It was one of Dr. Richards' peculiarities: his ability to stretch his body as if it were made of rubber.
Goku looked at him with curiosity; Reed's ability to mold and stretch his form at will fascinated him.
—Tell me, Kal, is it still not moving? —Reed asked, intrigued by his friend's response.
Goku looked up at the hangar's ceiling, as if searching for answers in the air.
—Actually, I can feel that it has moved a bit further away. It may be true that time flows differently here —he replied, reflecting on his own experiences.
After Superman had left the atmosphere, Goku had noticed that his movement was slower, despite the great speed he had displayed before. This phenomenon had intrigued everyone, and they began searching for explanations. Goku recalled a place in his world where time behaved peculiarly and shared his theory with Reed. They both agreed that they should wait and see if their assumption was correct.
—It seems so. The preparations for the ship are almost ready. We'll soon be leaving this planet. Go tell the girls to prepare everything I indicate. We leave tomorrow morning —Reed instructed Goku.
He nodded determinedly and left the hangar, ready to fulfill his mission.
Reed watched him go and then continued with his work. He had to improve the success rate in the simulation, and to do so, he would work all night.
---
Arrival of Night in the Dining Room
The dining room was illuminated by a dim yellow light, creating a cozy atmosphere. Rías, with her bright red hair, watched Goku with a mix of amazement and amusement. He was devouring his eighth serving of food, as if he hadn't eaten in days.
—You really like to eat —Rías said, raising an eyebrow while crossing her arms.
Goku, with his mouth full, replied between bites:
—This is delicious! Is there no more? —He swallowed quickly, his gaze full of longing.
Rías's expression turned complicated, a drop of sweat rolling down her forehead. She was not alone in her incredulity; Elizabeth, who was sitting next to her, also watched Goku with wide eyes.
—How is it possible that you eat so much? —Elizabeth asked, trying to understand her new ally's voracity.
Goku shrugged, not fully grasping the girls' surprise.
—I've been training a lot these days. I need energy! —he exclaimed, as if that were the most logical explanation in the world.
Rías, who had taken on the role of cook in recent days, had started preparing more food than usual. At first, she cooked just enough, but when Goku confessed he wouldn't be satisfied with that, she decided to make an extra effort.
—Well, this is what there is —Rías said, shaking her head with a resigned smile—. But it's all gone now.
—That's fine, that's fine —Goku replied, getting up from the table and stretching—. It's better that you all go rest; I'll go to sleep.
Just as Goku was about to leave, Elizabeth stopped him with a timid voice.
—Um, Mr. Goku, may I ask you something? —her gaze was filled with curiosity.
Goku stopped and looked at her with interest. Rías, still present, leaned a bit forward, intrigued by the question.
—Of course, ask me anything —Goku said, with a friendly smile.
Elizabeth took a deep breath before continuing.
—I never imagined I would go to space —she began, her eyes shining with excitement—. Mr. Richards and you mentioned things about space. You've been there, right?
Goku nodded, recalling his intergalactic adventures.
—Yes, I've been to space and visited several planets —he replied, bringing a hand to his chin as if trying to recall every detail—. The first time I went to another planet, I didn't know what to expect.
—And what is it like? —Rías interrupted, her curiosity now fully awakened—. Is it like in the movies?
Goku laughed, his laughter contagious.
—Oh, no! It's much more incredible. The planets are so different. Some have beautiful landscapes, others are barren deserts, but you never know if you'll find something new.
Elizabeth was mesmerized, imagining every word Goku said.
—And the food? —she asked suddenly, her eyes sparkling—. Is it different too?
—Yes! —Goku exclaimed, excited—. There are foods that I can't even describe. Some are delicious, others... well, let's just say they are a bit strange. But there's always something new to try.
Rías smiled, feeling that Goku's enthusiasm was contagious.
—I would love to see all that someday —she said dreamily—. Do you think we'll see places like that when we go tomorrow?
Goku scratched his head, thoughtful.
—Of course, in fact, I'm excited to see what we'll find. And it's also exciting to know what kind of beings we'll encounter —he muttered that last part to himself. He gave a challenging smile before leaving the place.
Both girls laughed, feeling that the night was filled with dreams and possibilities. Goku, with his inexhaustible energy, had ignited a spark of adventure in them.
---
### The Next Morning
Outside the hangar, the shrill sound of the spacecraft's turbines resonated in the air. The preparations were ready; all that was left was for the crew to board.
Three figures approached: Rías, Elizabeth, and Goku. Excitement reflected on their faces; Rías, with the curiosity of witnessing something never seen before, and Elizabeth, eager to discover what would come from that moment. Goku, although he had had similar experiences, could not help but smile at the girls' enthusiasm.
—Look at that! —Rías exclaimed, pointing to the ship—. It's even more impressive up close.
—It's incredible —Elizabeth agreed, her eyes shining with awe.
The rear hatch opened with a mechanical sound, and a figure descended from the platform. Reed appeared, wearing his blue suit with black stripes and a number 4 on his chest. He approached them with a confident smile.
—Everything is ready on my end. And you? —he asked, his tone that of an experienced leader.
—Yes, we have what we need —Goku replied, showing a case with one hand, his smile illuminating his face.
Inside the case was a dozen Joipoi capsules, containing provisions and other essential items. Goku had brought a capsule with him; it contained a tractor that helped him with his work. He showed it to Dr. Richards, believing it could be useful.
—Wow, this is interesting! —Reed said, taking the capsule with curiosity—. I'll try to replicate it.
While examining the capsule, he frowned. The technology was complex, and resources were limited. After a while, he managed to replicate twelve capsules, though with some limitations.
—Alright, you can board —Reed announced, pointing to the entrance of the ship.
The others nodded and began to move toward the interior. The ship was spacious, with several seats along the rear sides.
Reed sat in the pilot's seat while the others took their places beside him.
—Alright, I'm going to take off now, so get ready —Reed said, his voice conveying confidence.
The ship began to rise slowly, the sound of the turbines filling the air. With an upward turn, it accelerated, soaring into the sky at a dizzying speed.
—Wow! —exclaimed Elizabeth, looking out the window—. This is incredible!
—Look at that! —Rías said, pointing outside—. The planets are gigantic!
The view was astonishing: numerous planets of enormous sizes orbited around an even larger star, all surrounded by a nebula filled with bright colors, creating an almost magical scene.
Reed squinted, feeling a mix of fascination and distrust. That view seemed unreal, like a landscape out of a dream.
—Tell me, Goku —Reed spoke, looking ahead—. In which direction is Superman?
Goku, who had been lost in his thoughts, returned to reality.
—He's in that direction —he replied, pointing to one of the planets—. It seems that time no longer flows quickly for us. He just started moving at great speed right now.
He commented with a confident smile.
As the ship ventured into the unknown, one thing was clear: they would find a way to return to their homes, but first, they had to face what the universe had in store for them.
To be continued.