Author’s Note 1: These characters are not mine, but I’m borrowing them for a minute, thanks Joss. Oh, and Firefly isn’t mine either, but I’m still stealing it for a few minutes. Hope Joss forgives me.

Author’s Note 2: This takes place three months post-Serenity, the BDM.Hope ya’ll enjoy this. Please give feedback. I apprecciate it very much. Enjoy!

Author’s Note 3: This is a PG-13 rated fic. Mostly for the Violence,Language, and some sexual content. Pairingsinvolve…well, you’ll see.

New Beginnings

Mal was carrying a plate with two sandwiches in one hand and two water bottles in the other. He left the kitchen and started walking down the hall towards the cockpit of Serenity. “Captain!” Mal turned around to see Zoë standing in the hall. “Yes,” he replied. “Everything is loaded and Kaylee’s back on board with some new engine parts and tools to fix the mule.” “That settles that problem.” “We have to leave within the hour if we want to make the appointment with our new client.” “We’re leavin' as soon as I have my lunch Zoë. A hungry Captain ain’t a happy Captain.” “And no one likes it when you’re grumpy sir,” she replied as she headed toward the cargo bay. Mal started walking down the hall again. “Mal, we got a problem, a big one,” said Jayne as he walked over to Mal. “What is it now Jayne,” he replied to the mercenary. “I can’t find Vera anywhere. I looked everywhere and I even asked that crazy moonbrained sister of the Doc’s. Someone stole my gorram gun Mal!” “You didn’t leave it in your bed this time did ya,” replied Mal. “I…” Jayne paused for a minute and thought about what Mal said. “I gotta go check my bed.” Mal just shook his head in disbelief. Finally I’ll get to eat my gorram sandwich now in peace and quiet, Mal thought to himself. He continued walking down the hall and entered the cockpit. “You hungry little albatross,” he said. The chair on the left side of the room turned around revealing a young girl facing him. “You bet,” she replied. “Here ya go, River.” “Thanks Captain.” “We should launch now, or we ain’t gonna make it in time. You wanna start her up while I take a quick walk down to the cargo bay?” “Shirr ah.” With that, Mal left the launch sequence up to River and headed out the cockpit.

The bay was filled with new engine pieces and boxes of tools stacked one upon the other. “Kaylee, what the hell is goin’ on in here? I can’t find my way through this mess,” said Mal as he tried to look over the boxes and maneuver his way through to Kaylee. “Everythin’s shiny Cap’n. I’m just unpackin’ all the new things I bought with the money ya gave me and all,” she replied. “Look Cap’n,” she said as she held up a shiny tool to his face, “We got synchronizers!” “That’s shiny Kaylee, but how much did all o’ this cost us.” “Well…” “’Well,’ what?” Her composure turned from extreme joviality to being as timid as a mouse. “I kinda went over budget.” “How much is ‘kinda?’” “Like about this much.” She showed him the receipts from all her purchases. Mal’s jaw dropped open and he just stared at the number that Kaylee had written as the total. “ Little Kaylee, I hope that you have a good plan as to how you are gonna pay me back for all the money that you owe me.” “I thought that you could just take the money out of my salary for next month and then we would be even. Please don’t be angry at me. Serenity was telling me that it was time to be fixed and she was startin’ ta sound pretty sick Cap’n. ” Kaylee was giving Mal her “I’m so sorry and I’ll never do it again look” with her eyes widening, filling with water as her lower lip started to tremble. Mal couldn’t help but feel bad about taking Kaylee’s salary. “Alright little Kaylee, I’ll let this go one time and one time only.” Kaylee started to smile and her eyes were soon becoming dryer. “But,” Mal said just as Kaylee was about to hug him, “If I ever catch you spending all our money again, it’s no more Mr. Nice Captain. Dong ma?” Kaylee didn’t really buy into his mean act and ran over and gave Mal a big hug and a kiss on the cheek. “That’s why I love my Captain.” Kaylee went back to the boxes and continued unpacking all the new equipment. Zoë walked over to Mal and put her hand on his shoulder. “That nearly brought a tear to my eye there, sir.” “Don’t go repeatin’ that to anyone else or I’m gonna have to find myself a new first mate Zoë.” “Wouldn’t dream of saying a word, sir.” Mal shoved the remainder of his sandwich in his mouth and left the cargo bay to Kaylee and Zoë.

Mal was just about to enter the cockpit again, but was stopped in his tracks when Simon left the cockpit. “Doctor,” said Mal. “Captain,” replied Simon. They both nodded there heads at each other to signify a “hello” and started walking their opposite ways. “What were ya doin’ in the cockpit Simon,’ said Mal out of curiosity. “Just saying ‘hello’ to River. I haven’t seen her for the last three days. It seems you two are beginning to become inseparable,” he replied as he turned around to face Mal. “Well, we do make a pretty good team,” replied Mal as he turned to face Simon as well. “I’m just glad that River is finally acting like a normal young teenage girl now. Thank you Captain for letting us stay on Serenity even though we have caused a lot of problems for you over the past year.” Simon was about to walk down the hall towards the infirmary when Mal said something very unexpected: “You’re welcome son.” Mal had never said that to Simon, which caused some confusion in the young doctor’s mind. Mal turned around and made his way to his chair. Serenity was almost out of orbit and River had everything in control. “Simon is a little shocked at what you said to him,” said River as she read Simon’s thoughts, while keeping her focus on the sky in front of her. “Well, I thought that it was about time that I started to treat the boy like he was part of the crew now. Besides, I do love scarrin’ the heck outta him.” River just started to laugh and turned to face Mal. He was sitting in his chair laughing as well at what he had just said. The com unit to the right of Mal went off. “Yes,” he said. “Mal, I can’t find the gorram cartridge to Vera. I think-“ “Try your pillow case Jayne,” replied Mal. There was silence on the com for five seconds until Jayne got back on. “Never mind,” he replied and hung up. River started to giggle again, and Mal just couldn’t help but smile at seeing her laugh. River was kind of like the lost daughter that Mal never had over these past three months and Mal never thought that he would ever be able to connect to someone like he had done with River.

Kaylee was nearly finished in the cargo bay and had nearly put everything away where they should be. “I’m gonna go drop the rest of these things in the engine room. Thanks Zoë,” said Kaylee as she picked a box full of new tools for the engine. “No problem at all Kaylee,” replied Zoë. Kaylee was feeling quite chirpy today, but not her usual happiness. Today was her three month anniversary with Simon and he had made plans for them tonight and she was just thrilled to see what would happen. She entered the engine room and placed the box next to the engine. Now she could fix Serenity properly. She started to work on the engine, but found her mind kept straying from her work back to Simon. She had bought him Les Miserable, a book which Simon had read, but lost when he was running from the Alliance. Kaylee knew that he would love it and he had told her so many times that it was his favorite book to read when he was younger and regretted losing it. As she stood up to start working on Serenity from the top of the engine, she pushed the silver locket she was wearing around her neck in its correct position. Simon had bought her that locket as a present for her on their one month anniversary and she had never taken it off since then. The locket had two pictures: one of Simon and the other of the two of them together. Kaylee sighed at the thought of that particular memory, but remembered that she had work to do and started fixing Serenity again. Just as she was concentrating on Serenity, she heard a loud yell of pain coming down the hall.

Simon was pacing back and forth in the infirmary. I hope she likes her present, he thought to himself. He had planned out an elaborate evening for both him and Kaylee. First they would have dinner together, then he would giver her the present he bought her, and then, if he was lucky and she loved her present, they would spend the night together in his room. He opened the black box that he had in his pocket again to make sure that it was alright. Inside was a beautiful diamond bracelet that caught Kaylee’s eye back on Ariel, one month ago. Simon couldn’t help but smile when he saw Kaylee’s look when she saw the beautiful bracelet in the shop window. He had told her that one day he would buy that bracelet for her, but she protested and said that she would never have him spend so much money on her like that and she would never be able to wear it anywhere. The look on her face brought a smile to his face when her eyes had lighted up and he wanted to make her feel like a princess. He was so madly in love with her and wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. As Simon was daydreaming about all the times he had spent with Kaylee, Jayne walked in with a large and deep cut on his back. “What happened to you,” said Simon as he got some medicine to ease Jayne’s pain. “None of yur gorram business. Just fix the damn thing,” he replied while he sat on the examination chair. Mal walked into the infirmary to inform Simon that they were only thirty minutes away from their client, when he noticed Jayne with his large gash. “What the hell happened here Jayne,” said Mal. Jayne grunted and unwillingly answered, “I found my missin’ knife.” “How many times have I told you that sleepin’ with knives in your bed ain’t the wisest thing to do,” replied Mal. Simon let out a small laugh and kept applying bandages and gauze to stop the bleeding. “By the way Doctor,” said Mal as he was leaving the infirmary, “we’re nearly at the rendezvous site, so you better get all the meds ready for the trade.” “Will do,” replied Simon as Mal left. “Oww Doc,” yelled Jayne, “Watch what you’re doing with that gorram needle o’ yours.”

Serenity reached the designated arrival point on Persephone. Though Mal didn’t want to do business with this exact group of people, he had no real choice. Their cash supply was running low and Mal was getting worried that he could no longer be able to feed the crew anymore. “River,” said Mal as he got out of his chair, “I want you to come with us. We don’t really know what the hell these people want, so ya better come along with us.” “I’ll go,” she replied as she switched a few more switches and finally put the ship on the landing pad. Jayne was getting in the mule and Simon was loading all the supplied that they had stolen from a small little hospital that the Alliance really didn’t care about at all. “Wait a minute,” said Simon as a look of horror came across his face when he noticed River boarding the mule as well, “you’re coming with us mei mei?” “Uh-huh,” she replied as she hopped on to the mule. “Don’t be such a boob Simon, I’ll be okay. You should worry more about yourself. I know Kaylee is.” Simon put the rest of the cargo in the mule and ran down to the engine room. He was going to say goodbye before he had left, but the sudden news of her worry made Simon want to run over to her and comfort at that very moment.

Kaylee was tinkering with a loose wire hanging out of the engine. Though she appeared calm and at ease in her element, her mind was like a sea of distraught, constantly thinking of Simon and all the “What If” situations that came back and forth throughout her mind. Moments later, she felt a small tear fall down her cheek as a particular thought of Simon being killed in a fight crossed her mind. She heard footsteps coming down the hall and quickly wiped away the small tear, feeling ashamed and silly to be thinking of such things. “Baobei, are you alright,” said Simon as he walked in and looked at her face, seeing her right cheek slightly wet. “Just shiny,” she replied back to him, but her voice didn’t sound very confident to Simon. He could tell that she had just cried and came over to her and wiped away the rest of the tear that was left on her cheek. “Guess I can’t hide my emotions as well as most other people, can I.” He placed one hand on her cheek and the other on her neck. She started to cry again and placed her head on his chest and he just wrapped his arms around her waist and let her cry. “When I come back, I’m going to see you standing there and you’re going to run over and hug me, all the while telling me how much you worried about me. Then, we’re going to spend the rest of the day together, remembering how we first met and celebrating out three month anniversary.” Her tears began to slowly die down and she looked up at his face. He wiped away the tears on her face with one hand and kissed her softly on the lips, all the while fiddling with her locket on her neck. “I’ll be waitin’ for you when you come back Simon.” He kissed her once more and left her to keep working on Serenity.

“Ev’ryone ready,” said Mal as he got in the mule. “Where’s that Doc,” said Jayne as he noticed that Simon wasn’t anywhere in the cargo bay. “Right here,” replied Simon as he ran over and sat in the mule. “Good luck sir,” said Zoë as she walked away from the vehicle. Mal nodded his head in reply. “Alright little albatross, let’s go find our clients.” River started up the mule and rode out of the cargo bay. Zoë pressed the button on the panel and the doors slowly closed. Kaylee came down to the cargo bay and saw Zoë standing there. Zoë turned around to see her and gave her a small smile. “They’ll be back,” she said, “because the Captain knows that if he doesn’t, he’ll never rest easy knowin’ that he owes me a whole lotta money from last week’s poker game.” Kaylee let out a small giggle and went back to the engine room feeling better about herself.

***

“Well,” said Mal as he jumped off the mule as it came to a halt at a small bar, “this place sure looks like paradise to me. How ‘bout you, doctor?” The bar was a nasty shade of brown and the smell that was coming from it was probably the most rancid thing that Simon had ever smelt in his entire life, excluding the time that Jayne had purposely farted in Simon’s face when they had been playing the weekly poker game last Friday. “I’ve been to better places,” he replied as he got off the mule. River let out a small giggle when she read Simon’s mind. “What’s so funny ya moonbrain,” said Jayne. “Nothing,” she replied. “Alright, let’s get the stuff outta the mule. Jayne, you conceal your weapons. We don’t wanna startle our clients or the people inside. Simon, you’re gonna carry the stuff to them, but look casual with it. River, you’re gonna be readin’ their minds. If anything feels suspicious you just give me a signal and let me know. I don’t wanna get in a firefight today. You all have your orders.” Everyone nodded their heads in reply and did their jobs.

They entered the bar. The people inside were worse than the bar itself. Almost all of the people either carried a gun on their waist or a knife with them. “And you didn’t want me scarrin’ away these people,” said Jayne as he leaned over and whispered in Mal’s ear. Simon looked completely out of place. Even though he was wearing his rattiest shirt and pants, they were still cleaner than the ones the people were wearing in the bar. River was just looking all over the bar, scanning her eyes across the room. She could hear all the thoughts in her head. “There they are,” said Mal as he directed his eyes from the rest of them to the second floor of the bar with a table of four men. They climbed up the stairs and cautiously walked over to the table. “Mal,” exclaimed the fat man sitting at the table, “you’ve come, and with an odd bunch.” “Hello Victor,” he replied as he and River sat down in the two seats empty at the table. The man was surrounded by three other quite muscular men who had very large guns at their sides and were even saltier looking than the others sitting down below. “I trust you have what I asked for.” “Got it right here,” he replied as he motioned Simon to come over. He left the bag on the table. Victor stood up and opened up the bag. “Ah, yes! This is exactly what I asked for. No trouble in getting it I hope.” “Not really,” replied Mal. River tugged on Mal’s arm to let him know something was about to happen. “Well, Victor,” Mal said as he stood up, “I think it’s about time that we get goin’. We’d like our money now. Eighty percent of the value was the agreed cut.” “Eighty percent, hmmm. Yes, I have your eighty percent. Here it is.” Mal felt a little more at ease. He thought to himself that River had maybe been wrong, but still couldn’t shake the feeling that something was going to happen. “Thanks Victor.” “No problem. I will contact you again once I have another job for you.” Jayne loosened his grip on his belt and followed Mal down the stairs with Simon and River. The three men followed them down the stairs, but kept a distance. River made eye contact with Mal again and he realized what was about to go down. The body guards raised their guns, but before they could pull their triggers, River spun around and kicked the one in the middle so that he fell on his back. She then punched the one on the right in the face and spun around and kicked the other on his face, knocking him out cold. Mal turned around and shot the middle one as he rose from the ground and Jayne shot his gun at the one on the right in the stomach. The rest of the people in the bar stood up and started to draw their weapons as well. River intuitively knew who was going to try and fire first and landed a swift kick in the face to him and started knocking out people left and right. Mal and Jayne continued firing their weapons, taking down anyone who tried to stop River, or who got too close to them. Simon picked one of the guns that someone had dropped and began firing as well. “Why is it every time we go somewhere, we end up fighting someone or, in this case, a large group of drunken people,” said Simon as he dodged one of the punches intended for his face. “Because it ain’t fun doin’ a job until I get ta shoot someone,” replied Jayne as he took another one down.

Three minutes passed. “Well, that settles that,” said Mal as he put his gun back in its holster. Victor rose from his chair in disbelief. Jayne kept his gun aimed at him. “You best not try this again Victor, or we ain’t gonna be as courteous next time.” Mal turned around and exited through the bar doors. Everyone else followed him. Victor was just standing there in shock and fear, but was left unharmed to his surprise. “At least we got the payload,” said Jayne as he loaded it on the mule. “Let’s get out of here. River take the wheel,” said Mal. She jumped into the driver’s seat and waited for Simon to sit in his seat before she started the mule.

***

On board Serenity, Zoë was sitting in the cargo bay, talking to Kaylee to pass the time until Mal and the rest of the crew got back from the job. “I wonder how things are goin’ right now,” said Kaylee as she let out a small sigh of boredom and worry. “They’ll be back soon. Maybe this time, things will actually go as the Captain expected,” replied Zoë. “Doubt that. Our record ain’t the shiniest.” “That it ain’t.” Kaylee started letting her eyes wander throughout the entire room. “I hear today is your big anniversary with Simon.” Kaylee looked over at Zoë and started to blush and look down at the floor. “Yeah, it is. I got him a nice present. Well, at least I think so. “Whad’ya get him?” “A book he’s been lookin’ for since he lost it on the run from the Alliance. It’s called Les Miserable. Never heard of it myself. Hell, I can hardly read the title right.” Zoë let out a small laugh. “I’m sure he’ll like it a lot.” “When we get back Zoë, we’re gonna go pick up ‘Nara, right?” Zoë got up and stretched her legs a bit from sitting in the chair. “That’s the plan. She’s on Ariel, so it’ll be a little while before we’ll get there. Maybe five days, or a week. Depends if we get another job, or run into more trouble.” “Zoë!” “Yes Captain,” she replied through the headset on her left ear. “Open her up.” “You got it.”

***

The mule was parked inside the cargo bay. “Did we get paid,” Zoë said to Mal. “Got it right here,” said Jayne as he hoisted up the bag filled with their share. Kaylee ran over to the mule and pushed Jayne out of the way and grabbed Simon’s hand. “You didn’t get hurt or anythin’. Did ya,” she said with expressed worry in her eyes. “Not a scratch,” he replied getting out and kissing her on the cheek. “If it weren’t for River, we’d most likely of gotten our sorry behinds beat from one end of the ‘verse to the other,” Mal said as he patted her on the back. “Little albatross, I need you to take her up now, before Victor decides to plan some revenge. We’re headin’ for Ariel now to pick up Inara.” Kaylee began to smile.

The money they gathered from the job paid for three more week’s worth of fuel and another two month’s worth of food. Kaylee was underneath the mule, fixing a few parts that had been broken before they took the job. Only five more hours, she thought to herself. Five more hours and then I get to spend some “quality” time with Simon. I wish I was with him right now instead of fixin’ this ruttin’ mule again. Can’t there be one day where I don’t have to be fixin’ somethin’. Just as she was about to get up, a wire popped out of place. “Not again,” she yelled out loud. Simon walked into the cargo bay and saw Kaylee underneath the mule with her legs sticking out. He walked over and kneeled down next to her. “Hey there,” he said. Kaylee jumped and hit her head on the mule, letting out a small cry of pain. “I’m sorry baobei. Did I scare you?” “A little,” she replied as she crawled out from underneath. He put his hand on her forehead and rubbed it to dull the pain. “I’m sorry.” “It’s all right. I was thinkin’ about you ya know.” Her demeanor changed to a more playful nature. “Oh really,” he replied with a smile on his face. “Five more hours till that big surprise ya said you got for me.” She kissed him softly on the lips. “Five more. Hmm. Maybe we can think of a way to pass the time until then.” He leaned in to kiss on the lips. Soft at first, then deeper. Kaylee realized his intent and pulled back. “Hold on there cowboy. We still have a whole five hours until tonight. You can wait until then. For now, you can just keep kissin’ me.” Simon looked a little disappointed, but settled for the kissing. Kaylee was enjoying teasing Simon. Mal walked into the cargo bay and saw his mechanic and his doctor on the floor. “Ahem,” said Mal. Simon and Kaylee jumped at the sound of his voice “I was just um-,” stammered Kaylee. “I was helping Kaylee umm…,” replied Simon with the look of sheer terror on his face. “Uh-huh. Well maybe you should help Kaylee some other time. Right now she has some work to do under that mule.” Simon stood up and walked out of the cargo bay. “I’ll finish up here Cap’n.” Mal walked off and shook his head and chuckled to himself.

Five hours passed and Kaylee was giddy with excitement. She changed out of her greasy jumpsuit and took a shower. She put on a skirt that she had only worn once or twice before and a tank top that Simon really liked on her because he said that it hung in all the right places on her. She put on some perfume that Inara had given to her for her birthday one year and combed her long brown hair so that it shined and all the knots were eliminated. I don’t look half bad, she thought. She left her room and started walking towards the passenger dorms with Simon’s gift in her hand.

Simon was lighting the candles he had scattered throughout his room and outside. He had told River that tonight was a special night and that she shouldn’t interrupt him unless it was an absolute emergency and also that she could sleep in Kaylee’s room for the night. Just as he had lit the last candle, Kaylee walked into the room. Simon’s mouth was open and he was just staring at her. The match he had lit had burnt itself to the end and Simon dropped the match, feeling pain in his hand. Kaylee giggled at his silliness and ran over to help him. “Are you alright,” she said while rubbing his hand. “Yeah. I just didn’t notice that the umm match was burning,” he replied trying to recover smoothly. Kaylee pulled out the gift that she had wrapped for him. “Oh baobei. You didn’t have to get-“ “Don’t start that. Of course I had to get somethin’ for ya.” “I got something for you too.” He pulled out his present that he had also wrapped. Kaylee’s smile started to get wider and her eyes were beginning to sparkle. “But before we open the presents, let’s eat.” “You made a dinner for me?” “For you.” Kaylee threw her arms around him and kissed him.

“That was amazin’ Simon. I didn’t know you could cook.” “I really can’t. I had lots of help from everyone, but mostly from River.” “I’ll have to go thank the master chef then.” “I think we should exchange the gifts now that dinner is over.” Kaylee got up and grabbed the gifts that Simon had placed on his bed. “You first,” said Kaylee. Simon took the gift from her hand and started unwrapping the gift neatly. “Just tear the thing open Simon!” He finally unfinished unwrapping the gift and saw the book that Kaylee bought for him. “How did you find this? I didn’t think anyone would have a real book around this day and age.” “Do you like it?” “Like it? No, I love it Kaylee. Thank you. I didn’t think that you were listening to any of those conversations we had about books.” “I wasn’t. But I did remember you sayin’ somethin’ about likin’ that particular one.” He leaned in, wrapping his right hand behind her neck and placing kisses down it. He started to lay her down, but Kaylee put her finger on his lips. “I still hafta open my present.” “Oh yeah, I forgot about that.” She started tearing the paper off the present that Simon had neatly wrapped. Her eyes widened as she opened the black box. “I…” she started to stammer at the awe of seeing the beautiful bracelet that she had longed for at the shop. “I can’t. It’s too much Simon. I’ll never wear it.” “Yes you will. And even if you don’t, I still want you to have it. You’re a princess and I should treat you like one.” As he finished his words, Kaylee surged on top of him and started kissing him uncontrollably. Simon guided them both to his room and laid her on the bed. Simon closed the door and blew out the candles.

*** “Why don’t you go get some rest little albatross. Ya look a little tired. I’ll manage without ya,” said Mal to River as her eyes began to close. “Alright,” she replied. River walked over to Kaylee’s room where Simon had told her to sleep for the night and fell asleep. Mal started yawning and tried to keep his eyes open. “I best get some sleep myself.” He started walking towards his room, but paused when he heard a noise from the kitchen. He started walking that way and checked out the area. Nothing. “Humph.” Mal walked back towards his room and plopped onto the bed, falling sound asleep.

Jayne was busy cleaning Vera in his bunk. He turned his attention away from the gun to the hallway when he heard a loud bang come from the kitchen. Ruttin’ Crazy must be messin’ around in the kitchen again. He placed Vera on his infamous rack of guns and fell asleep.

Kaylee was sound asleep next to Simon with her hand on his chest and his arm wrapped around her waist. She definitely made Simon happy after waiting five whole hours. Bang. Kaylee immediately woke up. She definitely heard something. Bang. There it was again. Kaylee got out of the bed, but made sure not to wake up Simon. She got dressed, putting on her panties, her night tank top, and a pair of Simon’s boxers. The hall outside was almost pitch dark and no one was around. Everyone must be sleepin’. The noise stopped, but she decided that it would still be smart to check out the kitchen before she went back to sleep. “Is anyone in here,” she asked with a yawn in her voice. “Hello? River? Jayne? Zoë?” No one responded. I guess nobody’s here. As she turned around, her heart almost stopped. There was nothing she could do.

Kaylee tried to scream, but a hand covered her mouth before she could even open it. She tried to break free, but was no match for the man holding her. Tears began streaming down her face and she could feel a syringe being pushed into her skin. Her vision blurred and she could no longer keep her balance. She fell to the floor, unconscious. The man slung her over his shoulder and took her to his ship, which was just behind Serenity.

“Kaylee,” said Simon as he woke a little dazed after what happened last night. “Baobei, are you out there?” He put on some boxers and opened his bedroom door. Kaylee wasn’t out there. He got dressed and went out to the hallway. No one was awake yet. “Kaylee?” Mal walked into the kitchen looking a little tired. “Hey Doctor. Mornin’.” “Have you seen Kaylee. I can’t find her.” “Did you check the engine room. Sometimes she likes to tinker with the engine early in the mornin’.” “I’ll go check there. Thanks.” Mal grabbed a protein bar and headed for the cockpit. He sat down in his chair and saw a small blink flashing on the screen. Someone had left him a message. “What the hell is this.” He played the message. “Hello Captain Reynolds. My name is not of your concern or your top priority right now. You will find that today you have lost something. Something of extreme value to you and your crew.” The camera moved from the masked man’s face to a picture of Kaylee bound at her hands and feet, unconscious on the floor. “If you do not come to the designated spot indicated on your screen, she will die a painful death. I can assure you that. I’ll be waiting.” The screen turned black. Mal was in shock at what he saw, but mostly in a state of complete rage. How could this have happened? We have a gorram reader on board. Why couldn’t River have seen this coming? “This is your Captain speaking,” announced Mal throughout the ship, “We have an emergency. I need everyone to come to the cockpit please. Now.”

“Why the hell are you wakin’ a man from his well deserved sleep for Mal,” said Jayne as he was the last to crawl out of bed and come into the room. “Watch this,” replied Mal as he played the message.

Simon was about to break something in the room. His anger was becoming uncontrollable. “We have to get her,” said Simon trying to maintain his calm. Everyone could see that Simon was becoming unstable. “It’s a trap,” replied Zoë. “Of course it’s a trap. You don’t think they’re just goin’ to hand her over when we come. No, they want somethin’ of ours and I’m willin’ to bet my boat that it’s River,” replied. “Wait Mal,” said Jayne as he broke the long silence between everyone. “How is it Kaylee was captured when he got us a gorram Reader on board this boat.” “That‘s the question I’ve been wanting to ask this whole time,” replied Mal as he looked in River’s direction. “There was nothing to read,” she replied looking slightly confused and afraid. “What do you mean there was nothin’ to read.” “I felt no one other than our presence.” “They must have some kind of technology to block themselves from River’s mind,” replied Zoë. “How are we going to save her,” butted in Simon feeling that they were really straying from the important issue at hand. “We can’t. Not now. First we have to go get Inara. Maybe she can help us figure this out. She might even have some connections.” “You mean to say that we are just going to leave Kaylee with those Alliance liou coe shway duh biao-tze huh hoe-tze fuh ur-tze!” “For now.” “You selfish son of a bitch.” Simon ran over to Mal and punched him square in the jaw. Mal fell flat on the ground, not expecting the sudden punch. He got up off the ground and punched Simon back, knocking him over on the ground. They were on the ground fighting each other and Simon was getting the worst beating in his entire life, but didn’t really care. All he wanted to do right now was find Kaylee and save her. Mal pinned Simon onto the ground and was holding his throat, choking Simon. “Now listen here Doctor,” Mal said as Simon gasped for air, “Don’t you ever dare to presume that I don’t give a damn about my crew.” Mal released his grip on Simon, leaving a red mark around his neck. Simon sat up and started coughing, but still giving Mal a dirty look. “We’re not going and that’s final.” “Come on Doc,” said Zoë, “Let’s get you to the infirmary.” Simon stood up slowly, requiring Zoë’s help as he started to fall back down, and walked out of the cockpit. As soon as Simon and Zoë left, River walked over to Mal and placed her hand on his shoulder. “He’s not thinking logically.” “I know,” he replied as he stood up wiping away some blood off his face. “I know.” Mal got up and left the room. River sat down in the pilot’s chair and continued their course toward Ariel. Jayne, uncharacteristically, quietly let the room.

***

When Kaylee came to, she felt her hands and feet bound. Her eyesight was blurred and she felt like vomiting. The room she was bright. From what she saw, she could figure out that it was Alliance. How did I get here? Everything happened so quickly. She sat up and felt the blood rush to head. Last night’s dinner nearly came up, but she kept it down. She was wearing the same clothes as last night too. The door opened. “Kaywinnit Lee Frye. Do you know where you are?” She tried to speak, but nothing came out. Broken moans and gags were all that she could manage. “The drug is still in effect. You won’t be able to speak for another hour. But till then, I’m going to untie you.” She finally brought her head up to see the man. He was dressed in a typical Alliance uniform. He took the knife that he had in his hand and unbound her hands and feet. Kaylee fell back down on the cold floor. “I’ll be back with my associate later.” With his parting words, the man opened the door again and left Kaylee alone. Her eyes slowly began to close again and she drifted off to sleep.

***

Simon was furious. They were leaving Kaylee with the Alliance. It would take at least another two days to reach Inara. Even though Mal had already contacted her, he didn’t feel any better. “Ouch,” he screamed as Zoë wrapped a bandage around his arm. “If you held still, maybe I could put this thing on without causin’ any pain.” “How can you stay calm like this? The Alliance has Kaylee hostage and the tamade hundan of a Captain says that we are leaving her. I thought in the war you guys never left a man behind. Guess I was wrong.” Zoë wanted to punch Simon in the face for what he said, but she contained her violence. She knew that Simon was just angry and letting out some steam right now. “That’s true and we’re not about to break that rule anytime soon.” She left Simon to tend to the rest of his wounds for himself and walked to her bunk.

***

The door opened again. This time, the same man guard that had come in earlier was accompanied by another. He wore a white jacket and slacks that blended in with the sterile room she was in. His hair was slicked back and carried a gun at his side. Kaylee looked up at him. She was feeling a lot better, but still a little groggy from the experience. “Who-,” Kaylee mumbled. “Who am I is what you’re asking isn’t it,” replied the man. He turned to the guard standing next to the door. “You can leave.” “Sir, are you sure,” he replied. “Yes. Please leave us now.” “As you wish.” The guard left the room and closed the door, leaving Kaylee alone with the man. “I am someone who wants something back. Something was taken from me. I intend to get it back. You’re going to help me get what I want back.” “I ain’t gonna tell you nothin’,” replied Kaylee, still feeling a bit groggy and disoriented. “Now my dear girl,” he replied as he cupped her chin so that she was looking directly into his eyes, “I believe that you don’t fully understand the gravity of your situation.” He pulled out a knife from his pocket and Kaylee’s eyes widened. “Now, little girl, you’re going to answer al of my questions.” She nodded her head in response. “Good. First question: Will Malcolm Reynolds come after you?” “I don’t know.” “Not good enough. Yes, or No.” “Yes.” “Good. Second question: Will Malcolm Reynolds trade you for River?”

***

“Hello ‘Nara,” said Mal as she walked onto the ship. “Hello,” she replied. “Sir, we don’t have time for friendly “hellos”. We have to get on our way over to Kaylee,” said Zoë as she walked into the cargo bay. “You’re right,” replied Inara. “I contacted someone on Ariel and they have some information on our situation. Firstly, these people want River back. She was part of this complex program to exterminate the Reaver threat that was caused by the Miranda incident. They don’t want Simon anymore, so he’s pretty safe. Secondly, he gave me this.” Inara pulled a pad out from her bag she was carrying. “It’s a list of codes that is on all Alliance ships. The first five are for their defenses and the other three are for their offenses. Not to mention he threw in a few that regulate the environmental controls on the ships.” “How in the ruttin’ hell did you manage to get this ‘Nara,” said Mal with a shocked look on his face. “I have a few tricks up my sleeve. The poor client I was servicing just happened to take too much drink and happened to forget everything that he had told me the day after.” “Smart girl,” said Zoë. “We gotta get movin’. Lil’ Albatross, we need you to go to the specified coordinates where they’re holding Kaylee now.” “Already did it Captain,” she replied through the comm unit. “Gorram reader,” “I heard that.”

*** Her face was stinging with pain and her side was aching. She was slumped against the wall in exhaustion. She hadn’t slept for two full days. It seemed that this interrogation would never end. Slap. She was hit in the face again. “Now, Ms. Frye, I want some answers, not more lies.” “Even if I tell you the truth, you wouldn’t believe me,” she replied. “Maybe I will, or maybe I won’t. Depends on trust Kaylee. You see, if you are truthful, then we don’t have to do this. You can just tell me everything about Serenity and then I wouldn’t have to administer this horrible pain.” He grabbed her cheek and started stroking it. “You’re like a little lost sheep. The Alliance isn’t the bad menacing figure you believe it to be Kaylee. We just want to make things right.” “By using poor River,” she added. That earned her another slap on her right cheek. It was extremely bruised and a deep shade of purple. If she started to bleed, it really wouldn’t surprise her. It didn’t matter to her. She wouldn’t let herself betray her Captain or her friends. “I can see this is getting us nowhere. I’ll see you tomorrow and see it you’ve changed your mind.” Before he left, he noticed the silver locket around her neck. “What’s this?” “It’s nothin’.” “Now what did I say about lying, Kaylee.” She wasn’t in much of a position to resist him and let him open it. He looked inside and saw the picture of Simon and her together. “I didn’t know that the Doctor was such a lady’s man. Think about it Kaylee. What would happen if you never saw the sweet Doctor again?” He opened the door and spoke to the man guarding it outside. “Make sure Ms. Frye doesn’t receive her dinner tonight and give her some more adrenaline to keep her awake. She must be punished for her defiance.” “Yes sir,” he replied. The guard walked into the room and took out the syringe he had gotten. He placed in her arm and pumped in the adrenaline. The man’s words echoed in Kaylee’s brain as she sat on the cold floor staring at the wall with bags under eyes.

***

“We’re here,” said River as she slowed the ship down. They stopped close to a large Alliance cruiser. “That’s one big gorram ship,” said Jayne as he walked into the cockpit with Mal. “How the hell are we gonna do this sir,” said Zoë as she joined the others. “I have a plan,” replied River.

The crew gathered in the cargo bay to hear what River had to say. Everyone, but Simon was there. He was in the infirmary, cleaning it to pass the time and occupy himself like River had suggested so he wouldn’t aggravate Mal anymore. “They want me most of all,” she started. “Kaylee was just taken so that they could get to me.” “Why didn’t they just take you in the first place,” said Inara. “I’m too dangerous. I would have killed them,” she replied. “I’m going to have to give myself up. They’re going to do an exchange. Inara gave us the codes to shut down their defenses and offenses. They’ll be expecting something like that. Did you happen to get some codes to shut down the scanners?” “Well, I think he gave me a few codes for that...” “That’s good. Captain, you can hide some guns in your coat and Jayne can too.” “Aw, I can’t bring Vera,” replied Jayne as he took the gun in one hand and started loading it. “Later,” she replied. “How are we gonna manage to bring that with us,” replied Zoë as she pointed at the gun. “Inara is going to use the codes to mess with the environmental controls to distract the guards from on of the corridors so she can bring the guns with you Zoë. We are also going to hide the rest of the guns in one of the many hiding places that are on this ship so that they think we’re coming unarmed. You and Inara are also going to hide until we leave and think that we’re the entire crew so you can sneak on board and rescue us,” she replied saying it as if it was common knowledge. “Oh,” Zoë replied. “This seems awful fishy,” replied Mal. “You know this is goin’ to work ‘cause you’ve already seen this happen in your head, right?” “No,” she replied. “Great. We’re gonna trust the words of a psycho psychic and try and storm a gorram Alliance cruiser.” “Mal, Jayne, Simon, and I are going to go on board and meet with the man that has Kaylee. This won’t be easy.” “You can say that again,” added Mal.

Simon was busy putting things away and cleaning his infirmary to keep his mind off Kaylee, but found it wasn’t working. He didn’t realize that there was a meeting going on in the cargo bay and continued his work. What the hell are they doing to her? I hope she’s alright. If they lay one hand on her I’m gonna…”Simon, are you down here,” said River as she walked gracefully into the infirmary. “Yeah, I’m here,” he replied. “What are you doing?” “Cleaning out the place, like you said.” “It’s okay to be worried about Kaylee. She’s worried about you too.” “You can read her mind right now? Is she safe? Is she okay?” “I don’t know that much. Those aren’t the loudest thoughts I can hear. She really misses you. That’s all she can think about right now, not the pain.” “She’s in pain? River, you have to tell me, please,” he said as he put his hands on her shoulders. “Yes, but not for long.” She turned around out of the infirmary ready to leave, but looked in Simon’s direction again. “I almost forgot. We’re getting ready to storm the cruiser and rescue Kaylee, so you’d better hurry up.” She turned and left the room. “Wait. River, come back here. River!”

Everyone was in the cargo bay ready for the grand plan. “Ya’ll ready for this half-baked scheme o’ River’s,” said Mal as he put the last gun that fit in his coat, concealed from everyone. “Ready as ever, sir,” replied Zoë. “One question though River,” Zoë said as she faced the girl. “What?” “Why ain’t I up there with the Captain?” “Because Simon isn’t good with guns.” Simon gave River a look and she giggled at him. “I hope this works ya moonbrain,” said Jayne as he stuck a gun down his pants. “I just hope I remember how to input those codes,” added Inara. “You will,” replied River. “If everyone’s ready, I think we should go,” said Simon as he took a gun and loaded it.” “The Doc’s anxious to kick some Alliance ass. Let’s get this show on the road. Wave them Lil’ Albatross” said Mal.

***

“Ms. Frye, there are some guests for you. It’s time to go.” The man with the white jacket kneeled down next to Kaylee, who was lying down on the floor with her eyes wide open. “Let’s go.” He stood her up on her feet. She nearly fell back down, but was able to stand on her own. She pushed him away and started walking on her own, stumbling at first, but walking nonetheless.

***

“Hello Captain Reynolds,” said the man on the screen. “I see you’ve come. If you could kindly direct your ship closer, we’ll pull you in for docking.” The screen turned off. “Awful polite for stealin’ out mechanic then tryin’ to kill us,” said Mal. “Go ahead and dock her Lil’ Albatross.” “Shirr ah, Captain. Don’t worry, it’ll work.” “I hope you’re right. “ I hope you’re right, he thought in his mind.

“Captain Reynolds, it’s finally a pleasure to meet you in person,” said the man in the white jacket. “Can’t say the same about you,” as he was the last to walk through the scanners, which detected nothing. Good goin’ ‘Nara, he thought to himself. “Follow me,” he said as he directed the four of them to a large room. Kaylee was at the other end. She looked horrible and beaten. Her eyes were dark and her right cheek was nearly a shade of black. She had a few pricks on her arms where the syringes were forced into her. She had been up for three days straight. Kaylee stood next to two guards with her hands bound behind her back. Mal and Simon both looked at her. Simon was about to run over to get her, but Mal held him back. “Not now Doctor,” he said only for Simon to hear. “As you can see, we have your mechanic here.” He walked over to Kaylee and stroked her cheek. “She hasn’t been very cooperative with us as you can see along her right cheek.” He touched it and Kaylee flinched in pain. Simon was about to lose control. Jayne had seen many people been beaten up before, but he had never seen a man beat up a defenseless girl. He was just about ready to join Simon and kill him then and there. “Obviously Captain, you must have known that she wouldn’t have been given away for free. We want a trade. You see, River was taken from us and we still need her, now more than ever. The Miranda incident you resurrected seems to have become more of a problem.” “I’m sorry you’re image has been ruined,” replied Mal. “We want River back. If you hand her over slowly, then we will give back Ms. Frye.” “You have to do it Captain,” said River as she turned to face Mal. She had prepared a little speech to sell it. “Kaylee is more valuable to you. I know that you would never have put me in danger intentionally, but this time, we can’t run away. I thank you for keeping me safe and making me feel at home. Simon, I love you, and I always will. I have to do this to save Kaylee. She loves you and you love her. You deserve some happiness for all you’ve done for me. This is thank you.” River walked over slowly towards the man and he released Kaylee. She stumbled over to the rest of the crew and Simon grabbed her and she collapsed in his arms. I hope ‘Nara and Zoë are getting’ ready, thought Mal.

“You ready,” said Inara who had just set off the environmental controls. “Ready,” replied Zoë. She took Vera in her hand and Inara carried two more large guns that belonged to Jayne as well. “I hope we come outta this alive ‘Nara.” “We will.” They came out from their hiding spot and walked into the cruiser. The ship was very large and quite confusing. They stopped walking until they came to a corridor with two directions; right and left. “Which way do we go Zoë?” “Which direction you like best, right or left.” “What?” “Pick one ‘Nara!” “Right.” “Right it is then.” “How do you know that that’s the right way?” “I don’t.” “Oh God save us.” They walked down the right corridor, hoping that Mal and the rest of the crew were on the other side.

“Thank you for making the right decision about this River. We didn’t have to resort to violence to get what we each needed,” said the man in white. “You may leave us now. Guards take them outside and back to their piece of go suh ship.” No one came from outside the room. “Guards!” Gun shots were heard being fired outside. A shot was fired at the door and it fell down, revealing Inara and Zoë outside armed to the teeth with guns. “Go get them,” said the man in white to the two guards next to him. Before they could pull out their weapons, Jayne and Mal drew theirs and shot them. They fell to the floor dead. Simon took out his weapon and held it to the man in white’s head before he could run away. “Seems you got the kid a bit angry there,” said Mal as he saw Simon with his gun ready. “Stay where you are. Don’t move,” yelled Simon. “Sir, we gotta go. More guards could be comin’ any minute now,” said Zoë as she looked out the door. “Come on Doc, shoot the bastard already or I will,” said Jayne as he took Vera from Zoë. Simon pulled the trigger. The man fell to the floor, his white clothes stained with his own blood. Simon had closure now. This man had taken both the women he loved and harmed Kaylee. He was okay now. “Doc stop standin’ around there. We gotta move,” said Mal as he interrupted Simon’s train of thought. “Going now.” He carried Kaylee in his arms and River ran in front of Mal, ready to attack.

Jayne shot down another guard blocking their exit and River kicked the other. “Turn left here,” said River. They went down the corridor and headed straight for Serenity. Everyone went inside and Mal and River went straight towards the cockpit while Simon started to take Kaylee to the infirmary. “We might need her in the engine room Doctor,” said Mal. “She can barely stand,” he yelled. “Don’t argue with me now, just do it.” Simon was pissed at Mal right now, but did as he was told. “Simon,” whispered Kaylee as she opened her eyes to meet his. “I’m right here baobei.” “Get us in the air now,” said Mal to River. She took the controls started up the ship. “They’re going to try and stop us,” she said to Mal. “How?” The docking bay door was beginning to close on them. “Shit,” he yelled. “Don’t worry. Everything’s under control Captain.” “You better have it under control, or we’re humped.” River turned Serenity around and started to fly for the exit. “A little faster would be nice.” “Ask Kaylee for that,” she replied. “Doctor, you in the engine room,” he said through the comm. “Yes, I’m here.” “Have Kaylee make the ship go faster.”

“Kaylee,” said Simon. “Did you here Mal?” “Yeah. Just go to the panel over there and switch the red wire with the green one. Then all you have to do is replace the very large fuse with this thing right here in this box sweetie. Can you do that?” “Yeah, I think I can.”

As soon as Simon finished he told Mal to go ahead and give it a go. “Let’s make space dust Lil’ Albatross.” “You got it Captain.” She flipped the switch on her right and the ship immediately went faster, flying out of the cargo bay and into the black space. As soon as Serenity was outside, she made a jump and left the Alliance cruiser in it’s ruined state. “Good work Lil’ Albatross. I knew we had you on this ship for a reason.” “Thanks Captain,” she replied with a smile on her face.

***

Kaylee was in the infirmary and Simon was healing her wounds. She was changed into something a little more comfortable and the bags on her eyes were almost gone thanks to the two days of sleep she had gotten. “Thank you,” she said as she turned towards Simon, looking into his eyes. “For what,” he replied. “Rescuin’ me. Didn’t quite get a chance to say it before.” “You don’t need to thank me Kaylee. River was really the one who thought of that plan and actually saved you, not me.” “Who was it that carried me back to the ship?” He bent down and kissed her softly on the lips. “I brought you something,” he said. He took out the black box that contained the bracelet. He put it on her wrist and kissed her hand. She smiled and put her hand to his face, stroking his cheek. “I’m one lucky gal to have you Dr. Tam.”

“Sir, we got a wave from some man on some lowly planet that wants us to go and do a job for him. You want to take the job, or wait,” said Zoë to Mal as he walked into the kitchen. “I think we deserve a little down time after that incident two days ago. The big damn heroes need a break some time now and then, dontcha think,” he replied as he ate a protein bar. “I think so too sir.”

Inara came into the kitchen just as Zoë was leaving. “Didn’t know ya had it in you,” said Mal as he watched her make some tea. “Have what in me,” she replied. “The power of an Amazon Warrior, like Zoë.” Inara laughed at the comment. “I guess it’s true that you do anything for the ones you love.” She realized what she said and looked at Mal in a more serious nature. “Inara-“. He started to say something, but found that he had lost all words. She moved in closer to him and he kissed her deeply on the lips. They stood there for two minutes, kissing and hugging each other. “I didn’t think I’d ever get to do this,” said Mal as they both broke the kiss. “Me either,” she replied. “I have to do some captainy stuff. I’ll see you later.” He went and gave her one more peck on the lips and then left the kitchen, heading for the cockpit. “I’m looking forward to it,” she replied.

Mal walked into the cockpit and sat in his chair. “I never said that I was proud o’ you Lil’ Albatross, but you already knew that, right?” “Yes, but you should know that I like to hear you say it to me.” “How could I forget? Plot a course to…” Mal paused a second. He didn’t know exactly where he was going. “To wherever you want River,” he finally said. “You got it.”

**************************************************

The End. Please leave Feedback. Thank You for reading this, even though it rambled on and though it was a complete waist of time for you and you probably want to find me and tell me to make more sense next time, if there is a next time.

~Omelet~

Translations:

liou coe shway duh biao-tze huh hoe-tze fuh ur-tze=Stupid son of a drooling whore and a monkey

Shirr Ah= Affirmative/Sure

Go Suh= Crap

Dong Ma=Understand/Understood

Tamade hundan= Fucking bastard