Reviews:
Annie-Thanks!
Orwell is watching-xoxo-Haha, well, when I considered who the crew has crossed and who would need an arranged marriage, he came to mind.
ArtLightLove-Thank you, thank you, thank you. Hope you like the rest!
Gabriel Tam leads the men toward the little house, grabbing a mask and sliding it on just in case. He watches as the lead man throws the first can of gas, letting it diffuse to lull the crew that was a thorn in his side.
The door flies open and River runs out, arms helping to support the Zoe woman as Wash and the others stumble along.
"My beautiful girl, honeymoon is over. Time to return to your real husband."
River freezes at her father's words and weaves as she tries to focus on him.
"Simon, nerve gas. We are to be lucid so he can..." she trails off and falls to her knees, trying to breath the fresh, clean air deeply but failing.
"Poor River, here we came thinking you would have word, would be looking to fight."
River sneers at him, "I was distracted in the arms of my husband. Leave now because if you try to take what is not yours you will be cut down."
Gabriel smiles, "Ah, but soon your husband Atherton will be with you. And Mister Wing does not approve of little girls with big mouths." He talks, walking over and lifting his daughter as she struggles weakly, many of her crew asleep from the gas.
"Jayne!" River calls, head lolling to look at him as he tries to gain his footing and tumbles over to his hands and knees.
"Hun dan, put her down!"
Gabriel laughs, "Say goodbye, you have a debt to fulfill."
River looks deep within Jayne's eyes and he whispers, "Won't be long." And then his eyes close and River loses consciousness.
Jayne bolts to his feet in the first few seconds of alertness, hearing the voices of May and Samson as they worry over the others.
"River?" he calls, looking frantic, hoping that it was a horrible nightmare.
"Ruttin' hell, they took her." Simon is pulling Kaylee up and May and Samson listen as Wash calmly explains, Zoe leaning against him.
"Mal, we gotta go." Jayne's voice is tight and angry and the men exchange looks.
May smiles slightly, "We'll be here when ya'll get back gentlemen."
Simon smiles slightly, "I do believe it's time my father learns what we're truly capable off."
Zoe scoffs, "Ain't a way I'm sittin' here while you all go to play."
Wash scoffs right back, "Is a way lamby toes. Take the back seat on this one, I'm not risking you against the likes of them."
Zoe cocks a brow at him, "And 'xactly who is them?" she challenges.
The crew stops short, trying to recollect just who it is they're getting ready to fight to get their witch back.
"Go se. Atherton Wing. Dumbass Tam said something about him." Jayne clenches his fists and Mal looks to Inara, taking in her wary gaze.
Samson stands, "Well. Looks like you boys got some work to get done. Move, I ain't real keen on the thought of li'l River in the hands of some hun dan core boy. And Simon," he pauses and smirks, "I really am kinda keen to the idea of you giving your parents what it is they deserve."
Simon nods stiffly, "Oh, I know they'll get what they've earned in kind."
Inara stops Mal as he begins toward Serenity and she whispers, "We're not in his graces Mal. This time around won't be a time to have sword play and honor."
Mal smirks, kissing her, "Don't worry none bao bei, we'll be back with li'l 'tross and no one will have to worry on Atherton or the Tams again." Inara still looks worried and Mal starts walking away calling, "Won't be too much honor in this 'Nara-just shooting."
Inara smiles and watches his confidence as the other men depart as well, "Hey!" she yells. They turn to look and Zoe smirks, "Iff'n ya can manage, shoot them politely."
The men crack small smiles and nod, heading to stock up on weapons as they ready the shuttle to take off.