The two men walked toward the source of the sound. Tchassen couldn't
allow himself to run, even to help Tynia; the exertion would have been
too much for him. There was another clatter of shots and Tchassen
recognized the gunfire of the primitive Earth weapons. In the darkness
it was vaguely disturbing, but not frightening. Both Tynia and Drein
were armed with dispersal rays; they would have no trouble defending
themselves.
Sudden footsteps pelted toward them. Tynia ran from a dark side street
and threw herself into the Captain's arms. She clung to him, trembling
and panting for breath.
"Where's Drein?" he demanded.
"The Corporal--he took my gun. He tried to kill me!"
"Tynia, do you understand what you're saying? The accusation--"
"You told us to stay together. I did my best. I was going through a
house when I realized suddenly that I was alone. I saw Drein outside; I
thought he was talking to someone. I ran out and--" She bit her lip and
hid her eyes against his shoulder.