“Trust”

Written by R.T.Byers No infringement of copyright is intended. All recognizable items are property of Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy. However, the story and all original characters, names, etc. are mine. Rated: R for strong violence/gore and some language.

Bullets whizzed over Tim “Dual” Raynor’s head as he ducked behind a large, twisted piece of scrap metal. Concern touched his hazel eyes, and he ran a hand through his light brown hair. He dug into the pockets of his long, brown coat, searching for some extra shotgun shells. Finding them, he quickly pushed them into the chamber. He then picked up his communicator and said with a southern drawl, “Alexis, Jon, we’re pinned down a few feet from you. Can you give us some cover fire?” “Aye-aye, Captain,” Jon’s voice crackled back. A couple of yards to the captain’s right was his merc, Raze, who was crouching behind the ruins of a ship and cradling an assault rifle. About fifteen feet to Dual’s fore was his ship, the Vengeance. As the cargo bay door began to lower, Dual motioned to Raze. They stood up simultaneously and opened fire on the cautiously approaching purplebellys. As the ramp hit the dirt, a bullet lodged itself in Dual’s shoulder. He cried out in shock and pain as the impact spun him ‘round and planted his face in the ground. He looked up and saw Alexis, toting an oversized gun, and Jon, carrying a much smaller one, shooting at the Feds. “Time to move,” Dual grunted to himself. With his left arm hanging limply, and his right hand wrapped around the barrel of his shotgun, he pushed up off the ground and ran for his ship. Faced with the unrelenting spray of bullets coming from Alexis’s chain-fed peacemaker, none of the Feds found the courage to fire back. Dual made it back to the ship without getting shot at. Then he tripped on a piece of junk the up and fell down, chin bumping off the ramp and knocking his teeth together with enough force to bite off his tongue. Crawling up as fast as he could, Dual looked back and saw Raze yelling and running back towards the boat, cradling his gun. Just then, the chain of bullets stopped coming. Purplebellys popped out left and right and began to return fire. The first bullet passed through Raze’s left knee, splattering blood across the ground. He started to scream, but a hail of lead quickly silenced him and turned the air red with his blood. Dual watched in horror as the bullets shredded the merc’s body, one blowing out Raze’s right eye. Cursing in English and Chinese, Dual hit the button to close the raise the ramp. Jon let out a cry and ran forward, shooting at the enemy. Most of the return fire bounced off the ramp, but one punched through the his gut. He fell backwards, his head bouncing slightly off the floor. “Oh, gos se,” Alexis said quietly. “We need to get outta here,” said Dual “But Jon’s injured. We need to get him to the infirmary,” Alexis said. “Wo dong, but we need to get back to the Black and he’s the only one who can get this boat flyin’,” Dual said surprisingly calmly. “I’ll do it,” coughed Jon, “then I’ll go to the infirmary.” “Help me carry him,” Dual told Alexis. They carried him up to the bridge and sat him down at the chair. His hands started to fly over the controls. Alexis was fretting over all the blood that was swiftly leaking out of Jon. The Vengeance lifted off and flew towards the sky. All the while Jon’s breathing became increasingly labored. Jon opened the com to the engine room, coughed then panted, “Tech, get ready for hard burn the minute we break atmo.” “Okay,” came the reply. The ship pushed past the final clouds and broke into the void of space. The back end of the Firefly lit up, and with a soundless blast, rocketed away from the hellhole of a planet. Jon stood up, smiled, then violently hacked up some blood and fell on his face. Cursing, Alexis flew over to his side and checked for a pulse. When she looked up, tears were in her eyes. Dual already knew, but she said it anyway. “He’s dead...” He felt something starting to break inside of him. His friend of six years lay dead in front of him. He added Jon’s name to the long mental list of people who had died because of him. Alexis was moving her mouth, but no sound came out. “What?” he asked quietly. “ Your shoulder, it’s injured.” She said. Dual looked down at the hole next to his collarbone. “Oh,” was all he said. “Follow me,” said Alexis, heading down the stairs back towards the cargo bay. Dual followed silently, not in the mood to talk. She led him back down to the infirmary. His mind kept drifting back up to the bridge, where his pilot lay dead in a pool of his own blood. He started to laugh as he sat down on the table. Alexis, without turning around, asked, “How can you be laughing?” “I was just thinkin’ that it’s exactly like Jon to leave a mess,” Dual replied. Shocked, Alexis whirled around, fists on hips, and said, “That’s not funny.” Dual’s laughter choked off, and he cast down his eyes. He said quietly, “It’s jes...” “I know,” said Alexis softly, going from stern to gentle. Her eyes moved over to Dual’s wound. Pulling on a rubber glove, she said “Now take off your shirt.” He struggled out of his coat and pulled off his shirt with one hand. Alexis pulled out the bullet, making the captain grunt in pain. Then she threaded a needle and started to sew the hole in him shut. “Why do you always come back to me with holes in you?” she asked with a small smile. For the first time since getting back on the Vengeance, Dual really looked at Alexis, taking in her blond hair, her emerald green eyes, and creamy skin. Tianna, she was gorgeous. He found her beautiful even when she was sticking pointy needles in him. Speaking of which.... “Ow!” he cried. “Sorry,” said Alexis. “We’re gonna have to tell Tech the news,” said Dual quietly. “I know,” said Alexis. She finished with the suture and cut off the thread. “It’s gonna crush him,” Dual said. “Maybe you should let me do it,” Alexis said. “No. I’m the cap’n, I’ll do it. It’s part of the job.” Alexis finished wrapping Tim’s arm in a sling and said, “No offence meant Dual, but you aren’t that good at emotional things like this. I mean, you haven’t shed a tear for either of their deaths.” “There ain’t been no time for grief yet. After we finish the job, then we can cry” “Dual...” “No arguments! I got’em both killed, I’ll take care of it.” “Then I’ll come with you.” “No- “Tim!” She said in a stern voice. Dual gulped. When Alexis used his real name, it meant he was in trouble. Knowing he couldn’t win, he conceded. “Fine. You can help me tell him,” he said sullenly. Alexis kissed him. “That’s a good zhanfu.” * * * Hank “Tech” Lee looked devastated. He was of Asian decent and wore jeans and a T-shirt. “How did it happen?” he asked. “I already told you: he got shot.” Dual said. “He died while getting us off that lese planet and away from that qingwa cao de liumang who shot him and Raze. It was a heroic act.” Tech leaned against the engine and closed his eyes. Dual sighed inwardly and said “ Tech, if the engine’s good, you can go to your quarters...” “Engines shiny, thanks shifu,” said Tech, walking off towards the crew quarters. “You made it sound like it was Jon’s decision to go to the bridge first,” Dual said. “That’s because it was,” Alexis replied, “He could’ve said no.” “Then I would’ve ordered him,” Dual said. “And I would have hit you on the head,” said Alexis sweetly. “I thought doctors weren’t ’sposed to hurt people.” “I make exceptions,” said Alexis, “C’mon, it’s late. We should get to bed too.” “There’s still somethin’ we have to do,” said Dual, heading in the same direction Tech did. “We? What could it be...” she said with a little smile. Dual walked up to the bridge and stared down at Jon’s corpse. “We gotta move him down to the infirmary and clean up all this blood,” Dual said. They carried Jon’s body down to the sterile white lab, laid him down on the second bed, and pulled a sheet over his head. Dual bowed his head, and Alexis said a prayer. They then went back to the bridge. After they had scrubbed the last of the blood from the floor, Dual sent out a distress signal. “We got no way to fly this boat, we need some help,” Dual told Alexis after she asked about it. Exhausted from the days events, they tramped wearily back to their bunk. Alexis pushed in the door and crawled down the ladder first. Dual climbed down and saw Alexis crying. “Shenme shi?” he asked, then realized what a stupid question that was. “Sorry Dual,” she sniffed, “I know you said we should wait to grieve but I...” Dual rushed over and put his arms around her. He pulled her close into him, and she rested her head against his chest as he made soothing noises. “I’m sorry, bao bei,” he said, “That jes applies to me xin gan” Even in his soothing presence, she was unable to stop the flow of tears. So there they sat, seeking solace and strength in the warmth of each others bodies.

* * *

The next morning found the captain on the bridge, hoping desperately that a ship would answer their distress call. He knew it seemed strange, a ship moving at high speed beaming out a signal. Finally a ship waved him. “This is the captain of the Vulcan responding to the distress call of the Vengeance. Is anyone there?” “This is the captain of the Vengeance. We need a tow to the planet Persephone. Can you comply?” “You seem to be movin’ fine... Why do you need a tow?” asked the other captain suspiciously. “Pilot died,” said Dual matter-of-factly, “Before he did he set this gorram thing to autopilot, and none of us here can do a damn thing about it. He was the only one here who could fly this boat.” “I dunno,” said the other captain, “How do I know when we come aboard you won’t kill us and take my ship?” “There ain’t no reason for you to board my vessel. Jes need you to pull us there and land us.” The other captain considered that for a moment, then said, “Alright, I’ll do it for a fee.” “I can pay you after we finish the job on Persephone,” Dual said, “So how much is this fee?” “Fifty percent,” the other captain said. “Wu de ma! That’s too much. I’ll do twenty-five at the most,” said Dual. “It’s fifty or nothin’” the other man said. Dual closed his eyes and found his inner calm. This might be their only chance. “Agreed,” said Dual. “Pleasure doing business with you captain,” said the other man. Sighing, Dual turned on the PA to tel the others the news, “This is the captain. I’ve found somebody who’s willin’ to tow us to Persephone. He wouldn’t do it without a fee... So our cut is somewhat less than we first thought. Don’t worry about him doing anything stupid, though. He harms us, he won’t get his pay.” After Dual had stopped speaking he meditated lightly. But one thought kept encroaching on his peace: they needed a pilot.

* * *

The empty jug dropped to the floor with a hollow thud. The house was completely dark, and no one was inside. He had made sure of that. A match was struck, and it briefly illuminated his face, showing flame-colored hair, blue-green eyes, and slightly pale skin. Then the match fell, showing parts of a black trench coat. As soon as the match left his hand, the man was running out the door. Thoughts of darkness and light skittered across his mind. The house was already ignited as he made it under a street pole that he judged to be the “minimum safe distance.” If he did this right then- The entire back of the house exploded. A large fireball whooshed up into the night sky. The man watched his little homemade fireworks display with a nearly imperceptible smile. He watched as the flames battled back the night sky, kept the darkness in and around him from conquering for just a little while longer. But soon he had to leave, the scene being flooded with concerned neighbors and Feds, forcing him away from the comfort of the light and into the darkness.

* * *

The Vengeance hit dirt at about seven A.M. Persephone time, the Vulcan lowering the smaller ship to the ground, then landing next to it. Dual walked down the ramp an was unsurprised to find the captain of the Vulcan waiting for him. In the hours it took to get to Persephone, Dual had learned how much of a hundan the other captain truly was. “Captain Raynor!” the man said, arms spread wide. “Cap’n,” said Dual with a slight nod. “I believe you owe us something,” said the other captain. “I already told you,” said Dual, “you’ll get your money after I finish the job.” “Don’t do anything stupid now, captain,” said the other man. “I’d never go back on a deal,” said Dual, “‘sides, my boat’s here. You’ll get your money, no problems.” Dual looked up to see Tech finish using the winch to lower the large crate onto the mule. The package was nearly too large for the small cargo hauler. Walking back up the ramp Dual said over his shoulder, “See you soon.” He drove the mule off the ship and through the docks area off the city. He watched as the crowd of people increased in number. He rode down into a small, dark, inconspicuous alley. Dual then got off the mule and said, “Freedom is a dream that few people realize.” Cautiously, a well dressed man with black hair and in dark sunglasses peeked out. “Don’t worry, I got her safe and sound,” said Dual, patting the crate. “Really?’ asked the man, hope on his face. “Yup,” said Dual, easing the crate’s lid off, “Come and take a look.” The man did, and sighed in relief. “I can’t thank you enough,” said the man, handing Dual several bags of money. “Jes glad I could help,” said Dual, “but I think you should get off this planet soon.” “Why?” asked the man, eyeing Dual with suspicion. “That package got two of my crew members killed-,” The man interrupted Dual, “I’m sorry captain, but that was not my fault.” “I know,” said Dual, “you didn’t force us to take the job, and each of my crew new the risks. But these people are powerful, and you might want to run and keep running.” “Thank you, captain, I will take your advice into consideration,” the man said. As Dual was mounting the mule, he said, “Good luck, doctor. May the wind always be at your back” Dual rode the mule back to his ship and found the captain of the Vulcan waiting for him. Dual rode up the ramp, dismounted, walked back down, and tossed a bag of money to the captain. “This is half? Can I see the rest of your pay?” the man asked. Instead of complying, Dual pulled his pistol from his holster and aimed it lazily at the other captain. “Cap’n Adrian Paul of the Vulcan, wanted for the illegal trading of slaves,” said Dual, “That there’s a quarter of the money I jes made. It ain’t that I ‘m not grateful for your help, ‘cause I am. But I told you yesterday twenty-five percent at most. Now turn around, head back to your ship, and fly away.” “I thought you said you’d never go back on a deal,” said Captain Paul. “Well, I lied. Normally I wouldn’t but slave traders are goushi buru in my opinion. Now if you don’t leave I’ll have to turn you in to the law.” Captain Paul made it back to his ship, turned around and said, “You have made yourself a powerful enemy captain.” “Bye now,” Dual replied. “Yes... bye,”said the captain with a malicious gleam in his eyes. Dual ducked at just the right moment for the machete to slash by where his head was. The thug kept running after the attempted attack, and Dual shot him in the back of the leg. The hired muscle fell down with a cry. Dual holstered his weapon and kicked the machete away. “Don’t you know to never bring a knife to a gunfight?” he said. Dust blasted over him as the Vulcan rose into the air. Dual covered his head and walked over to where the thug lie screaming and clutching his leg. Dual kicked the man in the side of the head to knock him out, and then dragged him over to a nearby fence. Luckily no one had noticed the little exchange, and no one saw him heft the thug, with some difficulty, over the fence. He then ran back over to the Vengeance. Alexis looked up as Dual closed the cargo ramp and asked, “How’d it go?” “It went fine! He thought I was actually gonna go to the Feds,” said Dual, “I’m good at lyin’. Does that make me a bad guy?” “No, but the kicking people when they’re down kinda does,” said Alexis. “You saw that?” “Well I couldn’t just stay inside and wait,” she said, “You might’ve needed help.” Dual gave her a hug. When they pulled away Alexis’s shirt front was covered with dust. “Tianna you’re dusty!” she exclaimed, “We’re gonna need to get you out of those clothes...” “And give me a bath to,” said Dual. “I won’t argue with that,” said Alexis, moving in close to Dual, “You’ll bathe, I’ll watch, and maybe even help you out a bit.” Dual smiled.

* * * Tech’s mind kept drifting back to times when the crew was actually whole. Jokes Jon had made. Raze teaching him how to throw a punch. Conversations around the table. Tears welled up in his eyes and threatened to spill. Jon, his best friend, lay dead. He would not cry. He had to be strong. For the captain. For the ship. For the memory of his friends. He checked the engine again. There was nothing wrong with it. He sighed and checked the time. It was his turn to cook, and lunch was in an hour. Cursing, he hurried off to the kitchen to make something that would at least be edible. His hands flew over al the ingredients he would need (mostly protein) as the lunch hour swiftly approached. When he was finished, a colorless mush sat in a large bowl in front of him. He may have been the best cook on the ship, but when you have about three ingredients, no spices and no fresh food... Well, even he could not work culinary miracles. He quickly set the table and waited for the others to show. He waited for five minutes and no on showed. Odd, he thought, the captain is never late. He decided to wait for ten more minutes before searching for him. At twelve-fifteen he started to get up when the captain and Alexis burst into the room, looking somewhat frazzled yet smiling. “Lunch is ready,” said Tech. They sat down, and with one bite, had the smiles wiped off their faces. “What do you call this?” asked Alexis, after choking down her first spoonful. “Attempted protein stew,” said Tech, who hadn’t touched the stuff. “It’s okay,” said Dual, who was eating his at a steady pace, “But I like it better when it has... you know....flavor.” “I can only do so much with so little,” said Tech. “Point made,” said Alexis. “You can buy some food today, after you help spread the word that we need a pilot,” said Dual. “A new pilot? Why do we need that?” Tech asked. “Cause our old one got shot, remember.” It was not a question. “I know, but I thought maybe we could set down here, have solid ground under our fe-” “No!” said Dual vehemently, “That’s never gonna happen so long as I’m cap’n. You wanna get off, I’ll leave you here or anywhere else you want. Always another mechanic, dong ma?” “Perfectly, shifu,” said Tech sullenly. “Good, Now you do what I said, and I’ll try to find us some work.” * * * Dual poked his head into the infirmary and said, “Xin gan, can I speak with you for a sec?” Alexis looked up. “Sure. Come on in.” Dual closed the door behind him. “I have something for you to do if you don’t mind,” he said. “What is it bao bei? “I need you to find a suitable place to bury Jon,” Dual said. “I’ll take care of it,” she said. “That leaves me with the task of finding some extra muscle.” * * *

The weeks passed slowly, with no adequate pilots trying out for the job. Dual’s shoulder healed and he was able to use his left arm without horrible pain again. They held a short funeral for Jon and Raze (though they didn’t have the merc’s body). About a month after making planetfall, things began to look up. Dual was in a bar, having a quiet drink and watching an argument between two patrons. He had heard the large, muscular one with a crew cut and goatee was willing to work for the highest bidder. “What did you say?” the large man asked, drawing up to his full six-foot-six and glaring angrily at the small man who had just insulted him. “I said, I think you’re a nuofu, and an inbred piss-pot who couldn’t fight out of a wet paper bag. And I don’t give a flyin’ fornification who you are, you are dai ruo mu ji,” said the man. “And I think you couldn’t attract the most willin’ whore in the whole gorram ’verse,” the big man boomed. The little man grabbed the larger’s shirt. The big man knocked the smaller’s hands away, lifted him up by the collar, and tossed onto the pool table. The big man picked up a pool cue and swatted the smaller guy across the face with it. One of the now bleeding and unconscious mans friends charged, but the thick end of a pool cue in his diaphragm stopped him in his tracks. Another attacked from behind, but the large man swung the stick up with all his might, snapping it in half and lifting the attacker off his feet. The last person to try and fight the man leapt off the pool table, but the larger guy caught the attacker by the face, fingers nearly reaching the back of the man’s head. He grabbed the back of the shirt and hurled him into the far wall. Dual approached the angry man who towered over him by eight inches. “Wei,”said Dual, and had to dodge a punch thrown by the larger man, “Easy, I jes wanna talk.” “Talk ‘bout what?” asked the man. “My name is Tim Raynor. I captain a ship. I was lookin’ for someone who could handle a gun. You’ll be paid your fair share and given certain perks.” “What kind of perks?” “You’ll get your own room, free food, an’ freedom.” “Freedom?” “The freedom of not havin’ nothin’ tyin’ you down. The freedom to go where you want and do what you feel like.” “How much do I get?” “Eight percent, straight off the top.” “My goin’ rate’s ten” Dual looked him up and down. “How good are you with a gun?” “Pretty damn good. ’Bout anyone on Persephone can attest to that. I got my own guns, too.” For some reason, Dual liked this man. “Alright, I’ll pay you ten percent of every job we pull.” “Eleven” “Ten” “Done.” “Jes a word of warnin’”said Dual after they were outside, “If you ever betray me, for any reason, I will kill you, dong ma?” The big man looked into his eyes. After a moment he said, “Wo dong, captain.” “Call me Dual.” “My name is Chuck Weiser” “Good to know” Dual said. They wended their way back to the Vengeance As dual introduced the newest crew member, a man walked up to them. He wore a long, black coat over all black clothes. The collar was turned up and blocked most of his face from view. A black hat with a wide rim sat tilted forward on his downcast head, and blocked the rest of his face from view. “I heard you’re in need of a pilot,” he said in a quiet voice, “I wish to speak with your captain.” “I’m the cap’n of this boat,” said Dual, coming forward. “I would like to pilot this ship,” said the man. He looked up, and Dual saw the weirdest eyes. They were green and blue in a swirl pattern that rotated towards the pupils. But that was not what was the strangest about them. They seemed hollow. Devoid of all emotion. And it scared Dual. Trying to appear unruffled, he asked, “You ever been on a Firefly before?” “Born and raised on one,” the man said, looking up at the cockpit above them,“ Firefly is the ship I learned how to fly on.” “Really?” “Mind if I see the bridge?” he asked. “Be my guest,” Dual said. As the man walked past, Dual saw flame red hair tied in a ponytail. He motioned for Chuck to follow him as he tailed the strange man walking slowly through the ship. The man knew where he was going, so at least he hadn’t been lying about being on a Firefly before, like some of the others who had tried to get the job. At least he’s honest, thought Dual. The man sat down in the chair, took off his hat, and placed it on the consol. He looked natural there. “So what’s your flight experience?” Dual asked. “I learned when I was young, attended flight academy anyway, and have been flying ever since.” was the response. “Did you fly during the war?” “I won’t be answering any more of your questions until I get to know you better, Captain” said the man. “You sound like I already hired ya.,” said the captain. “I’m one of the top pilots in the verse. Everyone wants me. And if I disappoint, you can drop me off on the nearest hospitable planet.” “Well, if I’m gonna hire you I need to know your name.” “Call me Phoenix.” “Wanna tell me your real name?” “It is my name, Captain.” “Call me Dual,” he said, “So when can you start?” “I can get my things and be back in about an hour,” said Phoenix.

* * * Phoenix was back at the ship in less time than he thought. He knew he had been followed, but was confident that he had lost the tail. He felt somewhat happy on the inside, but nothing showed on the exterior. He had not sailed on a Firefly for a very long time. The sight of the ship brought back memories he didn’t even know he had. They stirred emotions, but in no way did his feelings really touch him. “Are we ready to sail?” he asked Dual. “Everyone’s on board,” said the captain, “We take off as soon as you can get us to. I’ve been way too long on this dirtball.” Then he saw them. A squad of Feds hurrying towards the Vengeance. Phoenix quickly hit the button to close the cargo ramp. One of the Feds shouted, but the ramp closed and cut off whatever it was the man was trying to say. Phoenix then moved off towards the stairs. None of the others had seen the Feds, but Dual asked, “Who was that?” “Just some hundan who thinks I cheated him out of his money. I didn’t, by the way,” Phoenix said without slowing down. In minutes, the Vengeance had lifted off and was hurtling through the Black. “Did we get a job on Persephone?” asked Phoenix. “Yeah,” we’re deliverin’ some foodstuffs to a lil’ moon called Ceres,” said Dual, “So can you tell me anythin’ about your past at all?” “No.” “What if I ordered you to?” “Captain, it seems that the way you run this ship is very informal. Therefore, any orders from you will not be taken with any seriousness,” said Phoenix, “If you ever hear anything more about my past than you already know, it will be because I choose to tell you.” “Fair ’nough,” said Dual, “But if I ever give you an order, I expect you to follow it. ’Cause if you don’t, I might jes dump your sorry pigu on the nearest moon.” “If you do that, who will fly the ship?” asked Phoenix. “Plenty of pilots out there,” said Dual. “The course to Ceres has been set. I assumed you would want to avoid any Alliance patrols, so we shouldn’t see any sign of them,” “How long will it be till we reach the moon?” Dual asked. “Should be two days until we make planetfall.” Phoenix replied. “Okay,” said Dual, “Supper’s at twenty.”

* * *

Dual set the last plate down just as Phoenix came through the door, the rest of the crew popping in after him. Phoenix waited to sit until he saw where the rest of the crew was. The captain sat at the head of the table, with Alexis at the corner of the right side, nearest the captain. Tech sat to Dual’s left and Chuck sat next to Tech. Phoenix took the seat next to Alexis. Tech sniffed and said, “Smells good, shifu.” “It smells like goushi,” said Chuck. “While your honesty is appreciated,” said Dual, “Flattery will take you further.” “I’ll try to remember that,” said Chuck. They sat at the table and Dual addressed the new crew members, “We each got our own religions here, so if you want you can say a prayer or something before you eat. If you choose not to though, it would be appreciated if you would wait to eat until the others have finished.” “So we don’t have to?” asked Phoenix. “It would be nice if you would,” said Dual slowly. “But we don’t have to then,” said Phoenix, popping some food in his mouth. Alexis shot him a look and said, “Eat quietly if you’re too hungry to be polite.” “I’m not impolite. I just don’t see the point in worshiping a god who doesn’t exist,” replied Phoenix. “You might not have any faith,” said Tech, “but I believe strongly in God and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” “Your lord maybe,” said Phoenix, “but he isn’t mine. That whole story is just a gorram myth that is past its prime. I thought people would realize there is no God or higher being watching over us.” Tech just sat there, eyes wide and mouth agape. “The fact that Earth is ruined puts an end to all the fei hua prophecies in the Bible,” continued Phoenix. “Biswei!” said the captain in a raised voice. “Now, you may not believe in God, but you don’t have to be so confrontational about it. Others here do, and everyone has a right to their opinions.” “And do you believe in God, Captain?” asked Phoenix. “I’m a Buddhist,” said Dual simply. “That doesn’t answer my question,” Phoenix replied. Instead of saying anything, Dual just ate some food. Attempting to change the subject, Alexis said, “Why don’t we tell some stories? Get to know each other better?” Chuck barked a laugh, and said, “I got a few stories that are pretty hi-larious.” “I thought Dual should go first,” said Alexis. Dual chewed thoughtfully for a while then asked, “Have any of you heard of the planet Vajra?” “A planet founded by Buddhist monks,” said Phoenix, “It had the largest population of Buddhists in the ’verse as well as the most famous monastery. It got destroyed during the war.” “I was born in that monastery,” said Dual, “My father was kinda the leader there. Everyone looked up to him. Anyway, when I was young he decided I should learn how to fight like him. So he hands me a pair of nunchaku and says, ‘Show me how you fight,’ so I swing'em wildly. In less than one minute, my own weapon smacks me across the face. They may have been made of wood, and sized down for me, but that hurt like diyu. Then he says, ‘You see son, whenever you make a mistake, the nunchaku will punish you.’ And believe me, he was right about that.” Chuckles passed around the table. “Now it’s your turn, bao bei,” said Dual. “Alright, let me think....” Alexis said, and after a moment, started to laugh uproariously. “Well don’t just sit there,” said Tech, “Tell us what’s so funny.” Still laughing, and wiping a tear from her eye she said, “I can’t, I promised I’d never tell anyone.” “Oh, come on,” said Dual, “We’re the only ones who’ll know.” “Since you put it that way,” said Alexis with a smile, “About three years back, when Dual was pretending he didn’t have feelings for me, he came down to the infirmary with some flimsy excuse. After finding out there was nothing wrong with him, at least not medically, he walked away. About two or three minutes later, I got a private call from his bunk. Something about-” “Wu de ma!” said Dual, “You said you’d never tell anyone under any circumstances, dong ma?” “Yes, zhanfu,” said Alexis laughingly. “Maybe we should move on to someone else...” said Dual, “How bout you, Tech?” Phoenix realized they would expect him to tell a story and sighed mentally. He dug his lighter from his pocket, the side engraved with a finely detailed Chinese dragon, and started to roll it along his fingers. The crew laughed at something Tech said, and brought him out of his concentration. He still rolled the square lighter. “He didn’t,” said Alexis. “It’s true!,” said Tech, laughing, “And then he looks up at me and says, ‘What?’!” Everyone laughed, Phoenix pretending to have been listening all along. His laughter dying, Dual looked at Phoenix and said, “Why don’t you tell us where you learned to do that?” Phoenix rolled the lighter into his palm, flipped the lid open, and The flame of the lighter lit the cigarette held loosely in Kain’s mouth. He inhaled deeply and blew out the smoke slowly, apparently savoring it. He looked down and said, “Hey there, Little Phoenix. What’s wrong?”

said “No. I should really check our course again.” “No one’s leavin’ this table till you tell us somethin’,” said Dual. “What’s the last thing you did before you joined our crew?” asked Alexis. “I burned down a noble person’s house,” he said. Phoenix laughed, and so did the crew. Let them think it was a joke. “Are you going to say anything?” inquired the captain. “Do you remember our little discussion earlier, Captain?” retorted Phoenix. Dual nodded his head and said, “I’m jes curious is all.” “Well you may want to point your curiosities elsewhere.” Alexis asked Chuck, “Why don’t you tell a story?” “I’ll tell you about the time I assassinated Magistrate Jenkins,” said the mercenary, “I had led him to this horribly built abandoned building, but his thugs found me. We had a scuffle and I was overpowered. He was standing over me with a gun, ranting about all the accomplishments in his life. He happened to mention his son was still a virgin. Then, just as he was going to shoot me, a section of the room above us fell on him! And the funniest part is, the bed had fallen through with it and in the bed was his son with one of the local whores!” Chuck laughed uncontrollably, a tear squeezing from his eye, “Oh, you should have seen the look on the boy’s face!” he said. The crew eased into light conversation and heavy consumption of food. Phoenix ate silently. Thankfully no one tried to talk to him. He finished and made his way to the bridge. The light from the council didn’t light the room well, but he was in a mood for darkness anyway. He closed the door behind him then sat in the chair. He put on his hat, tipped it forward, rested his feet up on the console, and fell into a light sleep.

* * *

Dual woke up early, even for him. His wife was resting peacefully beside him. He smiled and got out of bed slowly, careful not to disturb her. He put on some clothes and made his way to the kitchen where he made some coffee. The Vengeance was completely silent. He walked down to the cargo bay where he would practice fighting alone. When he reached the area, he saw Phoenix moving fluidly, a katana in his hands. It was like watching a dance of death. The light refracted off the blade as it was swung, and seemed oddly mesmerizing. He walked slowly down the stairs. As he approached, Phoenix sheathed his sword and turned to face him. “You’re very good, judgin’ by what I jes saw,” said Dual. “Thanks,” said Phoenix. “Where’d you learn to handle a sword like that?” asked Dual. “Captain, I’m going to say this once, so listen carefully: The only people who know about my past are the people I trust. And there are literally only two people in the ’verse that I trust. Trust is the most precious thing in the diyu of life, highly treasured and hard to earn.” “So how do I make you trust me?” Dual inquired. “You could start by being less nosy,” replied Phoenix. “Fine. But please, call me Dual.” “I’m sorry, Captain, but I won’t do that for a while.” “Why not?” “Because you are the captain, and I find it hard not to address you by your rank. It’s a habit.” “Alright,” said Dual, “Do you know how to fight?” “Yes. I am schooled in various forms of martial arts.” “Really? Think you could hit me?” asked Dual. “There is no doubt that I could beat you if we got into a fight.” “Well be here at eight and we’ll find out.” “Why do I have to be here?” “I teach everyone on my boat self defense. If you can beat me then you don’t have to come again.” “I’ll be there,” said Phoenix.

* * *

At eight hundred hours, Chuck, Phoenix, and Tech stood in a line in the cargo bay. Dual explained to the new crew why they were there. Chuckling, Chuck said, “So all we have to do is beat you?” “Exactly,” said Dual. Chuck lunged, but Dual dodged it. He kept avoiding Chuck’s blows until an opening appeared. Dual quickly swept out the man’s legs and put his foot on the mans throat. “I could easily kill you now,” said Dual, “I win, you stay.” Phoenix walked in front of Dual calmly and bowed, as did the captain. Phoenix ran forward and attempted a leg sweep, but Dual leapt away. Phoenix struck at Dual’s chest, but his arm was caught in both of Dual’s hands. Phoenix grabbed Dual’s hand, twisted his arm, then elbowed the captain in his face. Then he quickly moved behind the captain and wrapped an arm around the man’s neck. “Looks like I wi-” Phoenix was cut off as the back of Dual’s head collided with his jaw. Phoenix loosed his hold more from shock than pain. Dual started to move away, but Phoenix kicked him swiftly behind the knee, dropping the captain. Phoenix kicked Dual in the back of the head, and the captain’s face bounced off the grated floor. Phoenix dropped to the captain’s side and turned him over. “I think you won,” said the captain through a bleeding nose. “Should I call Alexis?” asked the pilot. “No, I’ll walk,” said Dual, stumbling away. “I’ve never seen anyone take down Dual,” said Tech, “I’m impressed.” “Thanks,” said Phoenix, “But now I have things to do.” He then walked up the stairs leading to the bridge. * * * The rest of the day passed uneventfully. The next morning, Phoenix set the Vengeance down on Ceres. As noon came rolling around Dual and Chuck armed themselves. Phoenix walked down the stairs and caught the conversation: “It’ll take a minute to put the thing together,” said Chuck. “If we get into a fight you take some cover and try,” Dual said, “I’ll cover you.” Phoenix stopped by the two, put on his hat and said, “I’m ready.” “Ready for what?” said Dual, “You ain’t comin’ with us.” “You could use another pair of eyes, Captain” Phoenix said, “as well as another gun.” “You’re my pilot, and if you die we’re stuck,” said Dual, “I don’t care what you-” Phoenix revealed what was hidden under his coat, and the captain said “You’re in.” Dual tossed Phoenix a small transmitter and earpiece receiver. Then he took two identical nunchakus and hid them under his coat. He checked to make sure his pistol was loaded and said, “Let’s go.” Chuck saddled the mule and rode off after the other two. “So here’s the plan,” said Dual, “We go in, deliver the cargo, get paid, and get out.” Phoenix asked, “What if they don’t pay us?” “Then there’ll likely be some shootin’” replied Dual. They walked (and drove) for a while, and then Dual stopped. “This is the meetin’ place,” he said. They sat there for a few moments, but then saw a black top-hat rise up over the dune, the image shimmering in the desert heat. They all rode on one mule, the driver wearing a bandanna on his head, and one of the passengers was carrying a large rifle. The third person was the one in the top-hat. He wore an expensive white suit and had a revolver strapped on his hip. They came up to the three waiting by the cargo. “You Lemmin’s?” asked Dual. “Yup,” said the man in the suit, “You got my cargo?” “Sure do,” said Dual, motioning to Chuck. The big mercenary lifted the crate, set it on the ground in front of the buyers, then opened the lid. “It’s all there,” said Dual as one of Lemming’s men counted all the golden packs at the top. “Well, so it is.” said Lemmings, pulling a cloth bag out of one of his pockets, “ Send my regards to Badger.” As Lemmings handed over the money a shot rang out, the bullet landing near Lemmings feet, startling him into dropping the payment. Phoenix spun as he drew his large pistol, aimed, and fired a single shot into a bush up the hill from them in one smooth motion. With a cry a man in ragged clothing came tumbling down, an old rifle following. Phoenix put his gun to the man’s head as he came to rest at the bottom of the hill, clutching his bleeding leg and hissing. Phoenix leaned in close to make sure Dual heard the conversation through the transmitter. “Why?” was all he asked. “Lemmings is mayor of our town,” said the sniper, “He takes all our produce and foodstuffs, keeps’em for himself. We’re starving to death.” Not our problem, thought Phoenix, as long as the captain doesn’t do anything stupid like- Dual punched Lemmings in the face. Phoenix brought his gun up and trained it on the man with the rifle before he could react to the blow. Chuck aimed his revolver at the driver, who immediately stuck his hands in the air. Dual kicked Lemmings in the side of his right knee, the well dressed man dropping to a crouch. The captain then punched the mayor in the side of the head, causing Lemmings to twist around and land sprawled in the sand. Phoenix walked over and pistol whipped the man with the rifle, dropping him. Chuck did the same with the driver. Then they both pointed their guns at Lemmings. Dual kicked Lemmings over onto his back then picked up the payment and put it in his coat pocket. “You can’t do that!” said Lemmings, “That’s stealing!” “Actually,” said Dual, “we can do this. And you wanna know why? ’Cause we’re thieves. But don’t worry! I said I’d deliver the food, and that’s what I’ve done. Now I’m gonna make sure it gets to the people that need it.” Dual put his hand inside his coat and pulled out a nunchaku. “Goodnight, Mr. Lemmings,” he said, swinging the weapon hard, the chained rod at the other end smacking the mayor in the side of his head. “C’mon,” said Dual, “we got food to deliver.”

* * * They rode into town on the mule, shouting for people to follow them. They dismounted in the town square and dropped the box to the ground. Just as Dual was about to speak, a large man stepped forward and said in a deep voice, “Where’s Lemmings?” “Unconscious in the desert,” said Dual. With a roar the man drew his gun, but Phoenix was quicker and shot the man in the head, sending blood and grey matter flying into the crowd, which then panicked. Most of the people tried to run away, while others merely ducked down and were trampled. More henchmen, all with drawn guns, came forward and shot at the crew. Phoenix’s finger was kept on the trigger, the pistol apparently automatic, as he ran for cover. Chuck dove behind a fountain. Dual ducked behind the mule and drew his pistol. “What the diyu is goin’ on?!” yelled Dual through the intercom. “These are apparently Lemmings’ lackeys,” replied Phoenix as he slammed another clip into gun. “I can’t get a shot off!” cried Chuck, “Too many people!” “I’ll take care of it,” said Phoenix. He drew another pistol, stood up, and fired both of them simultaneously. People screamed and died as he swept his arms out to either side, spraying bullets everywhere. Only Dual noticed the man up in the window. He fired several times, but the sniper ducked behind the wall. Dual ran out of ammo and the sniper took aim at Phoenix, who had replaced the clips and resumed firing. Cursing, Dual sprinted forward and tackled Phoenix as the sniper took his shot. The bullet pierced Dual’s right arm, causing him to drop his gun and cry out in pain. Chuck stood up with a very large shotgun, and blasted the sniper in his chest. Then he turned around and shot one of the approaching thugs, the man not simply falling but being hurled back into his friends. Lemmings then rolled into town on his mule, a large bruise on his face. He looked around, saw his men taking cover, and drew his pistol. “Gorrammit,” he yelled, “That’s my food!” Dual stood up, pistol in his left hand, and shot Lemmings in the shin. The mayor let out a shrill scream as he fell to the ground. “Order your men to stand down,” said Dual, “Or I will kill you.” “Drop your weapons!” yelled Lemmings. The thugs that were left dropped their guns. Phoenix stood up and covered the enemies. “Now,” said Dual, “get your ugly pigu out of town.” Lemmings crawled on top of the mule and said, “You tamade hundan, I swear I will kill you.” “GIT!” yelled Dual, shooting the ground behind the transport. With a yelp Lemmings rumbled off towards the desert. “All you others,” said Dual, “jes go home.” The thugs tramped off tiredly. “C’mon,” said Dual, “let’s get back to the Vengeance.” * * *

The crew sat in the infirmary, watching Alexis stitch up the bullet hole in their captain’s arm. “You didn’t have to jump in the way of that bullet,” said Phoenix. “Yeah, but at least I saved your life,” replied Dual. “Actually, you didn’t,” said Phoenix. “Fei hua, I took a bullet for you!” Phoenix unbuttoned the top half of his black shirt, exposing the bullet proof vest underneath. Chuck burst out laughing, his great guffaws swallowing Tech’s quieter chuckles. Phoenix wore a small, barely perceptible smile that only Dual noticed. “Okay,” said Alexis, “get out of my infirmary. My patient needs quiet.” She resumed stitching up the wound after shooing out the others, about every other stitch drawing a little “Ow!” from the captain. “Even with two people watching your back,” said Alexis, “you manage to get holes put in you.” “I jes like the extra attention it gets me,” said Dual. She smiled and kissed him... Then she pulled the last stitch and earned a sharp “Ow!” from the captain.

* * *

Phoenix sat in the common room drinking a cup of coffee. He watched as Dual walked in the room. He knew what the captain was going to say, but he was in a good mood and didn’t care much. “Phoenix, I know that you’re a private person, but I was wondering if I could ask you something.” “You’re wondering if I trust you yet,” said Phoenix, “And the answer is no.” “I saved your life!” “No you didn’t Captain, but at the time you thought you did. I takes more than stopping a bullet to earn my trust,” Phoenix said, “but I’ll let you know when you do.” Dual nodded and walked towards the door. “Oh,” said Phoenix, “Thank you Dual.” Even though his back was turned, Dual’s surprise at Phoenix using his name was evident. “Your welcome,” said Dual as he headed for his bunk. Phoenix smiled and took out his lighter. He stared at it for a while and then put it away. For the first time in a long while he was truly happy. Which meant he had to be especially careful. There was no telling what could happen if he actually started to like these people. The only certainty would be that they would get hurt. But he would cross that bridge when he came to it, as his father used to say. It had been a good day. Fin