All that floated there was a single glowing spark, much like a blue lightning bug. In the same breath River knew, without a doubt, it was Wash. He laughed as River sat at the end of the bed. This confused her because he had no mouth.
"Turns out Book was right. There is stuff after Death. Ain't as fun, but its there."
"There's so much-Zoe-"
"Easy River. For one, if anyone else comes down here and sees me they'll probably be blinded while hearing a high pitch ringing. They're still working on getting me a vessel."
"What?" River blinked in confusion.
"I'm an Angel. The two women in your dream were also sort of Angels. They're Serenity-the spirit of this very ship-and Paula. Paula has a longer name but she prefers Paula."
"How do I save the Giant?"
Wash laughed for a moment before answering the question.
"It's no easy task. Surprised you're jumping to it so fast."
"He's in pain. What happened to him?"
"Quite frankly I don't know. There are those who do."
"How do I find them?"
"When the gang lands in Persephone a man will be waiting for you. You'll know him. Dressed up all fancy like. Don't worry, he's not Alliance. He's like me just older and more experience. He's also more involved in the case of 'the Giant' as you phrased it. He wears a long beige jacket. He'll be looking for you. I don't have long, you're about to get a visitor. Remember, you're probably the last shot Earth that Was has. Once you go back in time...you might not be able to come back."
The lightning bug vanished as Zoe entered.
"You talking to someone honey?"
"No." River faked a smile. "No one at all." She stood up. "How far are we from Persephone?"
"Landing in an hour. Why do you ask?"
"An hour." River sighed. "Thank you." An hour to say goodbye to my family.