Darala Starr, Tau Ceti Superwoman - Earth Chronicles Season 1

CHAPTER 14 - "Time Is Short"

Darala and Jason kissed one more time, deeply, softly and then parted.

"I think we'd better go upstairs," she said. Jason agreed and they made their way back into the store.

There were customers completing purchases at the counter. Tina took cash and counted change back to them. After a friendly exchange, they left. Darala and Jason made it a point to stand just a little distance from each other in order not to seem conspicuous.

"So," Tina began, "What's the plan?"

Darala said, "I think... I think, perhaps, I'd better take things from here," she said. "The Torellian is no match for me, but he is dangerous, nevertheless. And I could not bear the thought of putting either of you in danger."

Jason said, "Darala, if we stick together, the three of us, we could...."

Darala lightly put her hand on his shoulder.

"Jason, I can't ask you, or Tina, to go any further with me. I know how to find the transponder and I can complete my mission once I have it safely secured."

Noticing Darala's gentle touch on Jason, Tina said, "Well, perhaps Jason could help you more than I."

Tina lowered her head and crossed her arms in front of her.

"Look, you two... it's obvious that there is a very strong connection between you both, even if you are from two different planets. That's something we just don't have," she said, now looking straight at Jason.

Tina took a deep breath and said, "But since I'm letting you keep a pair of my favorite shorts, Darala, I think the least you can do is let me help too."

Darala smiled warmly and approached Tina, and gave her a hug. Tina embraced her tightly and said, "Just be gentle with him. He doesn't have Tau Ceti bones as strong as yours."

They parted and Darala said, "Truly, you are my very, very good friend, Tina."

Tina whipped a glance back at Jason. "And, Jason... I don't think you should wear those shorts around Darala."

Jason blushed.

"Now," Tina said, "What's the plan?"

"Yes, Darala Starr, what is the plan?" It was the ship's computer voice breaking in through the communication device on Darala's bracelet.

Tina asked, "Who is that?"

Darala said, "This is my ship's computer. Very wise and helpful."

"And worried," the computer said. "Darala, time is running out and I'm afraid things are bit more complicated than we originally thought."

Suddenly, the door opened and more customers arrived.

Nervously clearing her throat, Tina said to them, "Welcome! Please have a look around and let me know if you have any questions."

Darala lowered her voice and spoke directly into her bracelet. "Computer, please don't say another word. I'm going to move to a more private location."

Darala turned and quickly ran back down the stairs into the basement.

"Okay," she said, "Explain."

The ship's computer said, "I've detected an energy spike from the unit. It's highly unusual, Darala. I think someone has tampered with the device, perhaps even made some modifications."