Mal sighed, “Cross another one off the list Zoë.”

“What list, sir? We’ve been grasping at straws for a week.”

“Surely there’s someone…”

“We could always try Patience again.” She made no effort to hide the smirk.

“Now there’s a thought.”

“Not a serious suggestion, sir.”

“No, no. You may have something there. Think she’s forgotten about our last encounter?”

“Not a chance. In truth, we’ll need to find a job soon. Holding out could only leave us worse off.”

“Don’t I know it.”

They were approaching the ship. Kaylee was waiting on the ramp, hopping excitedly.

“Just got a wave from Amnon, Cap’n. We’ve got some post waiting for us at the Bazaar. Wash is already prepping the ship.”

Mal gave Zoë a look. She just raised her eyebrow in response.

“Good. Get us underway.” _____________________________________

“So, you decided to finally report on your progress in locating the Tams. I’ve been waiting to ask you some questions regarding the incident on Ariel.”

“We handled it.”

“Yes, by massacring an entire Fed station.”

“Well within our liberties as set forth in our contract.”

“I don’t care. You 2 are out-of-control dogs. The funeral fees for those men will be taken out of your commission.”

“As you wish.”

“And for all of that death, the Tams managed to evade you again. Your excuse?”

Silence.

“Oh yes, you wanted to play with your Sonic Reverberater yet again, this time on an unconscious Security officer. I see. I’m glad it performed admirably. Try that again, I’ll shove it up your ass, see if your insides are immune.”

“We understand.”

“I’m glad we made that clear.”

“Is there anything else you require?”

“Yes. Give me all of your materials on your interviews with the parents. Then go take control of the search for Agent Dobson’s fate. Consider this your warning. No more stunts. Oh, and Mrs. Hendrix will be working closely with us from now on as an informant. She needs transport to Athens, so take her with you. Dismissed.”