Time is Running Out

Chapter 28

Rachel felt a nudge. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Xana.

We must run the other way. Rachel heard Xana's voice.

But... she was sure that Xana had not spoken... Then how?

How--? Rachel asked in her mind, but even as she asked the question, Xana replied.

An invention of mine, which connects our minds. Now, did you hear what I said? We must run the other way!

Rachel could not doubt Xana, for there was no time. And how, Rachel said in her mind, will we make the others know?

Can you please think?

What are you talking about?

Honestly? Rachel, I thought you were bright.

Offended and hurt, Rachel didn't reply.

Xana seemed to roll her eyes.

And don't you roll your eyes! Rachel shouted.

Now who are you, to stop me?

Rachel drew herself to her full height. I, Rachel Danielle Sarah Helen Isabella Fiona Quadia Simone Georgia Juanita Arden, am the only daughter of King George Max Zack Adam Arden and Queen Rachella Clementine Elena Maggie Chica Arden of Tenala, and for the first time, I am proud of--

SHUT UP, you stupid daughter of a royal family! I will tell you who I am now!

Well, I know who you are.

No you don't. I am the Countess Mirabella Xana Clara Kagan Viona Arden.

Rachel stopped.

Arden?

WHO?! she demanded.

Xana sounded smug as she replied, Your mother's sister.

WHAT?! screamed Rachel.

Yes... Then Xana's tune turned sad as she went on, It was a pity that George charmed her so much. She never wanted to get married, poor Maggie... She used to regret it, but she likes being a queen... And she hates children. Poor Maggie, having you.

What are you talking about? cried Rachel desperately.

Xana sighed. I will explain when we are safe. Now, let me tell the others.

And their connection broke.

Rachel was left to her shocked thoughts as Xana told the others her plan.

Just then, she realized that Xana had not spoken in her accented English at all when they talked in Rachel's mind just now. She had spoken in perfect English.

"Hey, aren't you speaking anymore?" the impostor jeered. "Given up all plan 'ave you?"

"No," Xana said calmly, looking at him straight in the eye with her cold, hard grey eyes.

"So what's your plan, eh?" the impostor taunted.

Xana smiled, but her smile didn't reach her eyes.

"Well," she said slowly and deliberately, "I guess, we run."

At her signal, they all turned and raced out of the alley. The impostor shouted and gave chase.

Xana led the chase, her long legs making her the fastest.

As they ran along, Rachel was finding it impossible to concentrate on the chase.

She forgot everything, everything except Xana.

She was watching Xana almost fly along the path.

Rachel was unconscious of anything else.