A/N: Sorry this took so long but things have been happening. Anyway, My next story will probably be about River going to a dentist to get her teeth fixed. Poor kid has been running around with her two front teeth missing for over a week now (story time), but I need to get caught up with my main story (Firefly Season One) first, which I'm starting back on as we speak.
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Recompense: (Conclusion)
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Hera had swollen to twice it's size, as it slowly slipped beneath the western horizon, in a valiant but futile attempt to retain it's supremacy, in the ever diminishing darkness of the Erisian sky.
Murphy, the undisputed king, cast forth it's first rays of life giving warmth and light, to nurture the endless seas of grain and grazing lands, as it's orangeish face peeked over the distant Eastern hills.
High above the occasional scattered farms, where workers filed out into the fields, to begin their never ending daily tasks; over the dusty trails and roads, dividing countless pastures of grazing cattle, Malcolm Reynolds piloted Serenity's second shuttle, swiftly toward it's goal.
With Zoe standing stalwartly at his side, he gazed pensively out across the vast vistas stretching out before him, taking him back to a another time and place, long gone, but not altogether forgotten. To the rear, sat Kaylee and Jayne. Kaylee, her long night up with River having taken it's toll, was snoozing in her seat, with a contented smile on her face. Jayne, although having accepted his fate, sat sourly, trimming his nails with "Pinky," while taking an occasional belt of Kaylee's "engine brew."
Faces, from that long gone time and place and one in particular, that Mal tried not to remember, flashed persistently through his mind, as he mused ambivalently on Inara's "revelation," concerning his youngest.
... "Sir?"...
He jumped slightly and looked up to his second in command, looking back at him with a probing stare.
... "You ain't spoke but a word since we left the ship sir."... She remarked...
... "Something on your mind?"...
... "Oh... long night Zoe, feelin' a mite tiresome is all."... He replied with a manufactured yawn.
Another moment of uneasy silence passed, as Mal gazed blankly out the window, with Zoe continuing her unrelenting stare. With a troubled sigh, Mal admitted...
... "Might have us a problem Zoe."...
Overhearing, Jayne glanced up and blurted out with a look of foreboding...
... "What?...We still gettin' the coin ain't we?"...
They both glanced back at him and Mal assured, irritably...
... "Yes Jayne, were gettin' paid."...
With a look of relief he replied...
... "Well that's good. Powerful glad we ain't missin' breakfast for nothin'."...
... "Oh I dono,... conjure you'd still have a somewhat compelling reason to be here. Jayne."... Mal retorted with a smirk, as he turned back to the view port.
Jayne slumped back down, muttering something to himself as he took another slug of Kaylee's brew, while Mal and Zoe continued on, in more hushed tones.
... "Ain't rightly sure I should be discussin' it, Zoe"...
... "Sir?"... She queried in astonishment.
Mal had his secrets. Dark, guarded places in his mind known only to him and probably would always remain that way. For as long as she had know him, however, concerns of his crews well being, or for any of those he considered "under his charge," were generaly an open subject. If not with the crew in general, then at least with her. This was not like him. With the events of the last couple of days fresh in her mind, she took a leap and probed...
... "It's River, ...ain't it sir?"...
Mal sat in contemplative silence, staring straight ahead as she assured...
... "Sir, I know it could have turned out much worse, but nobody got hurt, didn't deserve it,...'cept for her...an' we did come out for the better with Haymer, on'a 'count of it. I think she learned a lesson. Simon's a good doctor, one of the best an' he's doin' all he can to help her."...
... "Yes, he is." Mal agreed...
... "an that would be exactly what worries me. He is doin' his best, as you just made note of 'an it ain't workin'. He can't keep her in check, who can? Not nobody, that's who."...
... "So what would you suggest we do with her, sir"...
He took a breath, while shaking his head slightly and replied, more to himself...
... "Ain't rightly sure"...
After a moment of silence, his countenance suddenly changed. Bounding up from his seat and turning around to face the others, he clapped his hands together and exclaimed...
... "Ok!... 'bout due in Kingston folks, so here's the plan."...
... Effectively closing the subject, to further discussion.
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Kingston was definitely the hub of a agricultural and ranching world, with colossal grain towers, mills, stock yards and packing plants, on the downwind side, as far as the eye could see. The city itself, although with a scant population of only twenty eight thousand, or three quarter the total population of Eris, was remarkable clean, modern and well planed, by even Core World standards.
Separating the stockyards and more industrialized areas, from the city proper, was Eris Interstellar Space Port. While relatively small, in comparison to ports on larger worlds, it was a monument to twenty sixth century technology. Having been completely renovated within the last seven years, it stood proudly with twin gleaming silvery "docking towers," rising hundreds of feet into the air. Using the latest in "anti-grav" technology, this enabled docking of even the largest of commercial transports, on multiple circular tiers surrounding the towers. The north tower, located on the industrial side was used for heavy commercial shipments, from livestock to building materials and farm and ranch equipment, while the south tower catered to passengers and lighter commercial items, from medical supplies to sundries and dry goods.
Extending southward from the port was a wide tree lined boulevard, that ended at a lush green, tree filled central park, with several man made ponds and statues of Jon, Alain and Maximilian Barrett, along with several other of the lesser famous but noteworthy early settlers and leaders of early Eris.
Mal had reluctantly docked at the port. His original plan was to land in the park, close to where they had business. It was soon learned, however, that there were city ordinances prohibiting in town landings, when they were quickly descended upon by several uniformed officials, as soon as they emerged from the shuttle. Insult was added it injury, when a squadron of avian aviators had decided to use Mal for an impromptu, practice bombing run. Landing on the outskirts, without someone to stay with the shuttle, was out of the question and that had left him with only one option.
After docking high on the South tower, Mal and his little entourage descended down the central elevator, to the main lobby. Kaylee was enthralled by the sights, sounds and ultra modern technology, incorporated into the new space port. Jayne was enthralled by the numerous vending machines, where he had thoughtfully stocked up on snacks, for himself. Zoe was her usual self, faithfully at the captain's side, a look of total irritation on his face and an unreadable expression on hers, as the four of them made their way through the light crowd of embarking and disembarking passengers.
As they emerged and headed Southward, on the walkway flanking the main boulevard, Jayne ripped the top off a carton of caramely crunchy like things, tossed the top on the ground, tilted his head back and poured himself a mouthful, while Mal, quite animatedly, gave his opinion of his first visit to Kingston...
... "Oh, I'm terrible sorry sir, but I can't allow you to land here. You might scare the pigeons away, so they can't poop on your head...an' oh yes!,... for your convince, we have a shiny, nice an' new modern safe an' secure full service facility, that will gladly rob you for a ten credit docking fee."... Mal ranted on, as the quartet made their way south, down the main boulevard.
... "Wong Ba Duhn!... how I love comin' to the Core!"... He exclaimed sarcastically.
... "Oh Cap'n, this ain't the Core an' them officers was kinda nice, actually. I mean they gotta have some rules, I reckon"... Kaylee chirped up, encouragingly.
... "Kaylee, I believe you been hangin' 'round that doctor a mite too long"...
... "Rules"... He muttered, as Kaylee pointed out...
... "You got rules... on Serenity I mean... don't ya?"...
... "That ain't the same!"... Mal barked.
... "How so Cap'n?"...
Jayne and Zoe both glanced over to Mal, expectantly awaiting his reply, as he burst out incredulously, his voice jumping an octive...
... "How so!... Well 'cause...Well... 'cause it just ain't! that's how so!"... He explained, while throwing his arms up in the air.
... "Kaylee's right sir."... Zoe interjected...
... "This ain't like the Core. The police could'a cited us, but they didn't."... She calmly pointed out.
... "Corse they didn't Zoe!.. why should they!... got their buddies at the port, see to that."... Mal fumed on...
... "Ten credits."... He sulked bitterly...
... "Can park the whole gorram ship at Londinium, for that much"... He muttered
... "Ah hell Mal, got us plenty o' coin, from the last job. What's the point havin' it?... ain't gonna spend it?"... Jayne offered most "wisely," as he poured some more "crunchy things" into his mouth.
Mal gave him a caustic glance, over his shoulder, as Zoe mentioned calmly...
... "Sir?... I think this might be the place."...
She motioned ahead to a light blue overhead sign, hanging from a medium sized storefront. In white flowing script, with Chinese characters running down one side. It read...
... "Designs by Yvonne... Madam Simoneaux, Proprietor."...
... "Ya Zoe, I conjure it is."... Mal concurred, with a note of solemnity returning to his voice and gazing at the sign with gravitas.
Kaylee was thrilled, as she bounded to the window, admiring the various pretties, ranging from conservative pant suits to the ultra formal and bizarre modern. Jayne was admiring the animated models that were modeling said pretties; they might not have been actual live human flesh, but neither were the pictures back in his bunk and these actually moved, like the real thing. One in particular, who bore a striking likeness to Inara Serra, was sporting a rather reveling outfit, comprised mostly of black silky bands, wrapped around and going up both legs and across the hips, hiding only what the law required. From the hips, two strips of the same material crisscrossed upward over her midsection, again, concealing just enough of her breasts to be considered "decent."
Taking a swig of Kaylee's special brew, he wondered if Inara might like something like that. He knew he would definitely enjoy seeing her wear it around the ship. From the looks of the place, it would probably be expensive, but probably not anywhere near Inara's fee for services, that he figured he could never afford anyway. Lookin' was free however and this would surely make the lookin' all the better.
As he took another swig, he considered what Mal might think. With still another swig he recalled something the Shepherd had one said, about doing good deeds in private. He could always tell Inara that he felt guilty, about her dress getting messed up that day and wanted to make amends. He could say that he didn't want anyone to know, so that the good deed he was doing in secret would be "rewarded in secret by the Lord who knew all secrets," or something like that.
Better yet, he could tell that to Kaylee and have her deliver it. After all, with the favor he was doing for her today, she would surely feel indebted to him and wouldn't refuse. As he congratulated himself again, on his own cleverness, he prepared to take another swig when suddenly...
... "Jayne, you with us here?"...
... "Huh?... Oh ya Mal."... He replied, as his attention was torn from the scenery in the window.
... "Ok, like I was sayin'."... Mal continued...
... "I need to have words with Miss Simonecks, first off. I want you and Zoe to stay out here with Kaylee.
... "You sure this is a good idea, sir."... Zoe queried with concern...
... "She may be distant, but she's still a Barrett."...
... "Frye assured me there's no love lost between the two an' she considered Mike a disgrace, to the family name. It needs doin' Zoe an' ain't no call puttin' her on the defensive, right up front."... Mal explained.
... "Still sir, could be a trap?"... She warned.
... "Ya Mal, we didn't kill 'em all an' I don't figure we're exactly on their list o' people they're lookin' to have tea with."... Jayne interjected.
... "Don't work like that, cut off the head of a snake an' the body dies."...Mal replied.
... "They got snakes here?"... Jayne wondered, in bewilderment.
... "Aw, you two need to have a little faith."...Kaylee put in...
... "Cap'n will be all shiny, won't ya Cap'n."... She chirped, while giving him a "peck" on the cheek.
... "I'm certain I will li'l Kaylee."... He assured...
... "Ain't expectin' no trouble, but if anything happens, you two know what you need to do."... Mal addressed Zoe and Jayne.
... "Get Kaylee to safety, sir?"... Zoe offered.
... "No!"...Mal exclaimed incredulously...
... "You come in an' rescue me!"...
... "Sure you're comfortable with this sir?"... Zoe appealed. one last time.
... "Never said comfortable, Zoe."... he replied solemnly ...
... "But the way it is, is the way it is."...
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A couple of small fountains splashed tranquilly in the corners of the small marble floored foyer, with a rather unremarkable and unobtrusive, classical music piece, playing gently in the background. Designed to soothe potential customers, it did little to quell the feeling of foreboding, that hung over Mal like a dark cloud.
For the second time now, in three days, he had to explain the death of a relative, of which he had been the author of, to a surviving family member.
Carrie Luhan had been an innocent bystander; a tragic accident and nothing more, not that it made it any easier. Mike Barrett, Húndàn that he was, had been an act of unchecked rage, an execution. It was necessary and he deserved it, but likewise, it did little to alleviate his burden.
The supposed fact that the second cousin had been on less than friendly terms with the deceased, also did little to untie the knots forming in his gut. A lot of folk, out on the Rim and Border Worlds, had adopted a "shoot first and ask question latter" philosophy. Mal, especially when dealing with folks the likes of Mike Barrett, had modified that philosophy slightly to "shoot first and skip the questions all together," a philosophy, that at least for the moment, he was starting to question.
He peeked in from the foyer into the main shop, with various examples of Madam Simoneaux's latest creations, being displayed by the same style of animated mannequins Jayne had been leering at through the window, distributed amongst potted plants, marble statues, occasional full length mirrors and plush looking chairs. Hovering in the center of the room, up by the ceiling, was a large but conservative silvery chandelier.
As it was still quite early and most likely within the first half hour of the business day, the shop was deserted, save a slight sound of activity emanating from behind a wall of oriental patterned screens, at the far end. On closer inspection, a bevy of young girls were bustling around a powered down mannequin, cutting, trimming and stitching, on what was obviously another one of Simoneaux's wares being made ready for display. Standing back slightly, apparently supervising the operation, was a medium built lady, in her late thirties early forties, wearing an expensive looking business suit, with dark red hair, pulled back in a neat bun. Mal assumed, she was who he had been searching for.
As he started toward her, with lead balls in his gut, she acknowledged his pleasance, turned, glanced him and his attire up and down a few times, censoriously, before speaking, somewhat coldly...
... "May I help you sir?"...
... "Yvonne Simonecks?"... Mal inquired warily.
... "Yes, I am Madam Simoneaux."... she corrected, condescendingly.
A bit of embarrassment combined with his guilt, but there was something about the haughty way she spoke and carried her self that he was beginning to see he wasn't going to particularly like her. This made his job a bit easier.
... "Ok,... Madam Simoneaux."... He formally articulated, while executing a mocking bow.
... "If it so pleases her ladyship, may I present..."
... "Oh Mr. Reynolds, really...do you always respond thus, when corrected?... and yes, I know who you are"... She responded with a sly grin, upon noticing Mal's look of surprise.
... "And I also have a fair idea as to why you're hear."... She added coolly.
She turned around briefly and with a wave of her hand dismissed the girls she had been overseeing. As they drifted off to other duties, she continued...
... "I'm a busy woman and my time is valuable, so let us dispense with the pleasantries and get straight to the point. Eris is, quite literally, a small world, Mr. Reynolds. Word travels fast here and I do my homework. I did not aspire to where I am today by being stupid, or uninformed."...
... "First off... Captain, I believe it is?... you need not feel contrition in my presence, for your part in the demise of my dear cousin. While I may not be aware of the exact details, surrounding this most unfortunate event, knowing Michael as I did, I am certain he gave you just cause. Like you, he was a brigand and a fool, poisoned by hatred, refusing to let go of the past."... She added pointedly, while taking note of Mal's attire...
... "On a personal level, Captain Reynolds, I have already discovered that I don't particularly like you and I would venture to say it is highly doubtfull that we shall ever be friends. Never the less, I detect a fleeting sense of rectitude within you and would feel a measure of remiss, if I were to not offer compensation, in some small way, for your little service to the Barrett name and Eris in general."...
... "While only by virtue of sharing a common great grandfather, I am still, proudly of Barrett lineage and will be assuming responsibility for all holdings of the Barrett estate. It is my charge to restore a once great name to it's proper place. It is also my desire to acquire the property, that was the foundation of this latest controversy, to be restored and set up as a museum and monument, in honor of the men who died in the process of wresting this world from the devil. I am prepared to offer the present owner four times it's currant market value, plus the new ranch house in return. If my offer is refused, I will not pursue the matter, but the offer will stand. There will be no further blood spilled, or other censorable acts committed, to further sully the Barrett name."...
... "I have instructed my girls to see to your needs, if you or your ... associates,...lurking outside, have any further business here, free of charge. We have a new men's department, by the way, if you may be interested. You make a poor first impression Mr. Reynolds, in more ways than one."...
... "Well ma'am, I'm known for that, but..."
... "Yes I'm certain you are, Mr. Reynolds. You need to work on that."... She interposed snappily...
... "I have the opening and a subsequent showing, at my new store on Osiris in a week's time and I must prepare, but before I take my leave, allow me to offer you a last bit of advice."...
... "Well I reckon I'm gonna hear it irregardless."... Mal responded, tiredly."...
... "Yes you are."... she confirmed flatly...
... "Michel Barrett Jr. was not an evil man, but he allowed his hatred and bitterness, of past events, consume him and it proved his undoing. I however, choose to move forward and I recommend you do the same. Good day Mr. Reynolds."... She huffed, then smartly turned and marched off to the rear of the shop, disappearing behind a rich looking tapestry.
Mal stood staring blankly, in thought, toward the direction that Miss Simoneaux had disappeared off to, for a moment. Outside of a verbal sparring match, she seemed harmless enough and even seemed a bit pleased, with his actions concerning her second cousin, Mike Barrett Jr. The situation seemed safe enough and with his concerns for the future of Jonah and his grandmother put to rest, he shrugged slightly, turned and headed for the door, while chuckling slightly to himself...
... "Ya, Jayne's gonna love this."...
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... "That didn't take long sir." ... Zoe remarked with amazement, as Mal emerged from the shop.
... "She's a...reasonable woman."... Mal prevaricated, at a loss for words, then added truthfully...
... "Our business would be done here. Jonah an' Mrs. Miller will be safe, time to move on; got us a paycheck a-waitin' on us."...
As they started toward the central business district, with a relieved look, Jayne commented...
... "Now you're talkin', 'bout time we got what's due us."...
... "Said our business Jayne."... Mal clarified, while glancing over to Zoe...
... "I seem to recollect you an' li'l Kaylee havin' matters to see to right here."...
Jayne grimaced, as Mal grasped his shoulder and reminded him with a smirk...
... "What's the use o' havin' the coin, ain't gonna spend it... Right Jayne?"...
He watched, dejectedly, when Mal and Zoe turned and headed down the street, as Mal called back over his shoulder...
... "You meet the very fine Madam, her name is Simoneaux, not Simonecks...save ya a whole heap o' ugly, ya remember that... See ya back at the shuttle... have fun"...
... "Oh we will, Cap'n!"... Kaylee squealed, while grabbing Jayne's wrist and dragging him toward the door.
... "It's a whorehouse?"... Jayne mumbled to himself, in bewilderment.
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As the morning wore on, the streets of Kingston began showing signs of life, with folks hurring to their respective workplaces. While there was a definite distinction between the "haves" and the "have-nots" the social stratification, seen on Persephone, seemed to be entirely absent.
Fancy new "hover cars," that were not to be seen on the rest of the moon, slowed and courteously gave the right of way to men on horseback and ox drawn wagons, that came into town from nearby farms and ranches for supplies. Businessmen dressed in expensive finery, waved greetings to weathered looking farmers and ranchers, in bib overalls, battered dusters and greasy coveralls. There was no shortage of law enforcement, as evidenced by an armed uniformed official, on nearly every street corner, but they seemed to lack the militaristic and intimidating mannerisms shown by "officers of the law," on the actual core worlds.
Mal and Zoe made their way down a mildly crowded parkway, flanked by neatly manicured shrubs, in the central business district, toward the local Blue Sun building, where Haymer's financial representatives had an office.
As they were about to start across a street crossing, a uniformed official jumped out in front of them, motioning to the red crossing light and stated, with a slight smirk...
... "For your safety sir... Wouldn't want to see you get run over, mess up your nice brown coat."...
... "Huh?...oh no, course not."... Mal replied absently and complied, without remark or incident.
Zoe gave him an astonished looking glance, while wrinkling her forehead. When the light changed they hurried across the street and Zoe remarked...
... "Still thinkin' 'bout River, ain't ya sir." ...
... "What?... Worryin' on River?... No, no. Like you said, The doctor knows what he's doin' an' ain't nobody got hurt. She was only tryin' to help; didn't mean no harm. Reckon I was just gettin' a mite too worrisome, bein' tired an' all. Done forgot about it. Ain't nothin' to worry 'bout."... Mal explained, unconvincingly.
... Sir, when was the last time you let someone make a comment like that, 'bout your past allegiance, without some remark of your own?... at the very least?"... She countered, while nodding back toward the smart mouthed traffic cop...
... "What!"...he exclaimed in feigned indignation...
... "Can't a man change his ways?... War's over. I can see that now; need to move on is all"... He stated unconvincingly.
... "Sir?"... was her only response, as she stared at him doubtfully. They continued on in pensive silence, until Mal finally conceded, with a sigh...
... "Ok, Jayne an' Kaylee ain't about, so I 'spect there ain't no harm talkin' 'bout it. Don't wanna cause no undue fuss with the others 'till I'm sure, 'specially Jayne."... He paused for a moment, swallowed and continued on...
... "There's somethin' 'bout that girl just ain't right Zoe."...
... "Well sir, she is a little strange an' if she's psychic, which I'm becomin' more inclined to believe, sides' bein' a bit embarrassin' at times, I don't see how that's any real threat. This is not exactly new news sir."... She pointed out with a chuckle and added...
... "River's been with us over a year now an' ain't never harmed none of us,...well 'cept for Jayne."... She amended...
... "Truth be known I've been tempted to do that myself, a time or two, but that was six months ago, sir. She ain't done nothin' like that since an' if she is psychic, the incident with Miss Anna, when I look back on it, she was probably just tryin' to warn us 'bout her."...
... "Couldn't agree more Zoe"... Mal concurred...
... "But this ain't 'bout just bein' a part time reader an' a mite whimsical in the brainpan. She's done ... things. Things that nobody should be able to do. Bout' a month ago Zoe, just before that bounty hunter got on my ship. She got ahold of one o' Jayne's guns; fully loaded."...
... "Sir, we've been over that. Somehow she got his bunk combo an' if she's psychic that wouldn't have been a problem. I though we all agreed on that."...
... "An' that's what I thought, but I'm a-thinkin' there's mite more to it."... Mal admitted...
... "River went to bed early that night; Jayne went to his bunk early too, right after helpin' Sheppard clean up the kitchen. He always checks on his hardware 'fore goin' to bed an' if anything were missin' we woulda heard about it. Not nobody seen or heard a peep out'a either o' them; not till me an' Inara noticed her wanderin' 'round below, with a gun in her hand."...
... "Sir, you're not thinkin' that River an'... Jayne, are maybe..."
... "I conjured that to be happenin', sure as the fluffy lord don't come, he wouldn't be here no more."... Mal pointedly interposed, picking up on her implication...
... "But I was thinkin' he might maybe have set her up to find it, hopin' I'd put her off the ship. Don't rightly see it now though. Jayne ain't had no part in it; was all her doin'.
... "Can't deny that point sir. Doubt he's smart enough, to come up with something like that."...
... "Exactly my point Zoe. Anyway, latter that night, Early sneaks into my ship, knocks me out an' locks us all up in our quarters. He tied Kaylee up in the engine room, put the preacher out an' has the doctor under his control. Húndàn knew his trade, I'll give him that, had complete control of the ship in a heartbeat."...
... "I come around thinkin' I'm in a dream an' River's talkin' to me, but I'm locked in my bunk an' she ain't there."...
... "I know sir, we heard her too. She was on the com. What's so strange about that?"... Zoe queried.
... "Com was disabled Zoe."... Mal pointed out...
... "Like I was just sayin', Early was a pro; seal everybody up an' cut off communication. Kaylee had to fix it afterward, speakin' o' which, 'cordin' to her, River done come up behind her an' cut her loose, so she could unlock the rest o' the crew quarters. Funny thing though; Kaylee heard her but never seen her, like she weren't even there, but she did somehow get cut her loose an' if I might add, with Jayne's knife, that she found on the floor after she was free, but no River."...
... "Early couldn't never find her on account o' she weren't even on Serenity, she was on his ship. Never went to no fancy college Zoe, but as far as I can recollect, ain't nobody can be in two places at one time, but they'd near have to be, to do what she done."...
... "Sir, I don't mean to doubt you, but what you're implyin' is impossible, like you say. I remember once when I was little; my folks took me to a carnival an' there was this guy that could project his voice, to where it sounded like he was standin' right aside you. It's an old magician's trick. River has a lot of problems, but we both know how smart she is; we all know how good she is at sneakin' around an' hidin', when she wants to. She probably is psychic an' just read his mind, snuck around an' outsmarted him."...
... "That's what I thought Zoe, but what I could never suss out is why Kaylee never seen her. Way back in engineering, why would River hide?...from her friend?"...
... "Sir, were talkin' 'bout River here. She don't always think the way we do. Don't think nobody ever knows what goes through that child's mind."... Zoe commented, with a slight chuckle.
... "Uh, ya...maybe so, but there's more."... Mal went on...
... "Just ten days ago; Niska's little party. Ain't never said nothin' 'bout it an' ain't feelin' all shiny on reminiscin' there now, but she did things Zoe, things we all owe her for irregardless, but things she couldn't o' done. More recently and by recently I mean three hours ago, Inara showed me the security logs for her fancy safe. 'Cordin' to them, a certain piece o' property was removed, but the door weren't never opened."...
... "The logs are wrong then sir."... Zoe interjected...
... "A safe's a machine sir; machines can malfunction. Solid objects can't passed through solid objects... coincidence is all"...
... "You would think Zoe,...you would think. The safe that ain't never malfunctioned, malfunctions when River goes lookin' for the Lassiter... coincidence; Niska goes loopy, hidin' from a ghost, when River's in his torture room... coincidence; Kaylee gets her bonds cut buy a ghost, with a knife that somehow Jayne, who was locked in his bunk, misplaced earlier... coincidence; River got lucky an' shot three men dead, with three shots, to save Kaylee from Niska's goons... another lucky coincidence."...
... "Would seem to me Zoe, we ain't got no shortage on coincidence as of late an' it's been my experience that when coincidence gets common, it ain't all the coincidentalsome no more."...
... "Sir, I'll admitted strange things have happened around River and she may be mildly psychic. We don't know what they did to the poor kid at that ... place, but do you have any idea what you're implying?"... Zoe challenged, incredulously...
... "My father may have been rim world born, but he was an educated man. As long as I can remember he had been a Ship's Captain and even a Commodore for some of the largest merchant fleets in the verse. He knew somethin' 'bout laws o' physics and if what you're suggestin' were true, basic laws that have been in place for a thousand years would have to be re-written. You're implyin' telekinesis sir, or somethin' like that. Psychic abilities have never been disproven an' some scientific folks think it might be possible, but telekinetic? ... That ain't nothin' but a myth, sir...like raisin' the dead."...
... "I know what it's called Zoe."...Mal asserted...
... "An' I ain't sayin' I believe it, or it's exactly what she's doin', but she can do things that not nobody can explain; things I ain't never heard the likes of."...
... "Last month, Jubal Early was set on collectin' the price on her head. Two hundred thousand credits it was. That's a fair bit o' coin Zoe, but not near what it is as we speak. Fresh warrant come out on them, doc's price went down; twenty thousand's all. Ruffled their feathers a mite, but their fast forgettin' 'bout him... But River... two million's her worth today...that's five million platinum Zoe. Man could retire to Bellerophon with Haymer for a neighbor, on that kinda money."... Mal mused.
... "I hope you're not thinkin' what I hope you're not."... Zoe intoned censoriously, while stopping and giving him a scathing glare. Mal simply returned a meaningful look and she contritely relented...
... "I'm sorry sir, I shouldn't have even thought that, but that's a lot of coin; could tempt a lot o' folks."...
... "That it is, Zoe."... Mal solemnly agreed, as they continued briskly on down the parkway...
... "An' I 'spect more folk, the likes of Jubal Early, to come a-calling on us, but there's a larger issue at hand and that issue is, why do they want her with such a powerful will. Doc says she's a genius, prodigy an' all, but I conjure she ain't the first an' won't be the last. She's a reader... less o' them about than geniuses I reckon, but with Alliance resources, if they found one they can find another an' if they made her into one, they can do it again. What makes River so important to them? Why they so all-fired desperate to get her back?"...
... "Well sir, she did escape from a secret facility where, 'cordin' to Simon, they're doin' medical experiments on young kids. Might be a little embarrassin' for them?.. if the public found out?"...
... "Ya I reckon it would Zoe, but we both know the Alliance got special squads up the pìgu for just that reason; make sure their dirty little secrets don't cause 'em no undue embarrassment; disappear all nice an' quiet like an' it wouldn't cost 'em no two million. The warrant's abundantly clear; she's to be returned alive and unharmed, which leaves me a-thinkin' they just might want her on account o' what they conjure she can do; for what's corked up inside o' her."...
... "Still sir, she does seem to be gettin' a lot better an' I don't think she'd ever knowingly harm any of us... not even Jayne, now a-days"... Zoe defended.
... "No Zoe, River never would, but we might not be talkin' 'bout River here."...
... "Sir?"... Zoe questioned, with a quizzical look.
... "She's like the Djinn in the bottle, I'm guessin'. One day that Djinn might see fit to come out an' will it be River?... or somethin' else? If it ain't River, will we be able to stop it? Conjure what we've seen ain't but a mite o', what she can do, else the Alliance wouldn't be after her with such a will. That day come, might be but one way to stop her an' no overabundance o' time for discussin' the matter."...
He paused for a moment, with a far away look in his eyes and admitted...
... "River's a good kid; ain't nothin' she wouldn't do for any of us an' I've developed a fondness for her myself. She might not be crew, but she's one of us now. She ain't gettin' left nowhere an' in time, I'm thinkin', she could be crew. With her talents she could be powerful helpful, but..."
He paused for a moment and continued on gravely...
... "There could come an' ugliness with her though, a place I ain't overly partial on visitin', an' I'm thinkin' we need to be mindful o' that, is all I'm a-sayin"...
.
.
It had been over an hour since Mal and Zoe had left and Kaylee had tried on no less than a dozen gowns, with a couple of Madam Simoneaux's girls hovering around her. Jayne, after making his rounds, sniffing, touching and depositing an occasional snack wrapper in a planter or two, like an alpha wolf marking his territory, made himself at home in a white velvet chair and lit up a half smoked cigar, blowing out a plume of smoke. As a formation of, pungent smelling, stratus type clouds drifted through the plush showroom, he took a last swig, glared disapprovingly at the empty bottle for a moment and dropped it into a neighboring vase, with an audible clunk.
He had learned, from one of the sales girls, that oranges, or any other type of citrus fruit, were currently unavailable on Eris, for any price. While the news actually came as somewhat of a relief, less coin he'd have to spend, he didn't figure that his "favorite crazy person" would find that as an acceptable excuse. Seeing to reason was not exactly her forté. It didn't look to bode well for him.
All was not lost though, as he watched Kaylee across the room, in an expensive looking formal gown, gleefully looking at herself in a fancy mirror with the two girls bustling around her like maids in waiting, as if she was preparing for a king's banquet. At least the irritating and slightly haunting words... "You owe Kaylee a dress"... that he had been assailed with, on a daily basis, for the last week, like a bad conscience, would finally be put to rest. Maybe the coin that this little outing was going to cost him would be worth it. He rested a little easier, realizing that the money spent was for his own well being, in the long run. He had no idea exactly what that cost would be, but buy the looks of the place, he was sure it would be substantial and couldn't help wondering how many bottles of cheap liquor, brothel visits, guns and accessories Kaylee's fancy new frippery would represent, regardless.
The absence of oranges presented a problem, but after all, she had only mentioned it once and she wasn't exactaly "all there." Maybe, he hoped, that addled brain of her's would simply forget. Polishing off the last of the snacks, he had bought from the space port, he thoughtfully deposited the empty carton in a planter, folded his hands behind his neck while stretching his legs out in front of him and proceeded to just enjoy the "floor show" of shapely robotic mannequins, displaying various provocative looking wares.
Still transfixed by the one that reminded him of Inara, another one caught his eye. It wasn't all that reveling, but there was something about it that was almost hypnotic and he was certain she would like it. He remembered Inara mentioning that Kaylee wasn't the only one that got hurt that day and for a fleeting moment, he felt a twinge of conscience. He blamed it on the capacious amounts of alcohol he had consumed, dismissed the idea and went back to ogling the more scantily clad robot. This was going to cost him plenty as it was, no sense in letting Kaylee's brew cloud up his better judgment.
.
.
Kaylee was totally aglow, in a silky looking full length lavender gown, with matching elbow length evening gloves, as she preened herself in front of the mirror. It had been nearly four hours now and she had tried on nearly every outfit that had been on display, in the main showroom. She was like the kid in the proverbial "candy store."
... "So, Madam; have you decided on anything?"... one of the attendants, although trying to remain polite, queried in a tired sounding voice.
... "Gee, I don't know. I ain't never seen so many pretties in all my borne days!... there all so... Fùyou mèilì de!... Ya know?"... She swooned, mirthfully.
... "I see."... The attendant responded, dryly.
Kaylee twirled around brightly, admiring the outfit she was presently wearing, in front of the mirror a few times. Finally she made up her mind and sighed with a hint of disappointment...
... "Well, reckon this one will do."...
One of the attendants, taken aback by her sudden lack of enthusiasim, narrowed her brow and commented...
... "You do not find the merchandise satisfactory?"...
... "Oh no!"... Kaylee exclaimed...
... "There all shiny!...but I was hopin' to find somethin'... well kinda... you know, fancy lookin."...
The two attendants glanced at each other in bewilderment for a moment, then back to Kaylee. One of them queried in astonishment...
... "Fancy looking?"...
... "Ya, you know, lots o' fluffy little ruffles an' pretties; goes out an' around like this"... she explained animatedly...
... "Like this one I seen at the Eavesdown Docks one time."...
The girl who had been speaking, stared at Kaylee blankly for a moment, then the other prompted, discreetly...
... "Persephone."...
... "Oh, yes...of course."... The former responded, drearily.
... "Well we have catered to various types of ...clientele in years past. Perhaps we might have something in storage, that would meet with your approval? ... if you would follow me please."...
She directed Kaylee over to a small desk like table, over in a corner, with a view screen embedded into it's surface. After she was seated at it, the attendant explained...
... "From here you can view all of our past creations. Let me know when you have found something to your liking and we'll see what we can do for you. Please go ahead and take your time Madam."... She advised, with a plesant, but relieved looking smile.
The two attendants went back to straitening up the displays, while giving Jayne, who had fallen asleep and was snoring loudly, an occasional wary glance. Kaylee clicked through page after page of Madam Simoneaux's original designs and after about another twenty minutes squealed out excitedly...
... "Oooh! I found it!... It's the same one!"...
The attendants made there way back and peered over her shoulder at what she was looking at, as Jayne awoke with an irritable sounding snort. On the screen was displayed a ruffled pink hoop dress, just like the one that Badger had gotten for her and had been destroyed in Niska's chamber of horrors. While this girl was pleasant enough, her taste in fashion didn't seem to be much better that her choice of a suitor, they figured.
... "Well if you saw one of these at the Eavesdown Docks, I dare say that it was not exactaly the same."... One of the girls commented.
... "Yes, cheap forgeries have always been a problem in this business."... The other explained with a sigh and added...
... "That would be the old 'Little Miss Muffet' line, if I remember correctly."... the other nodded in agreement, as the former continued...
... "Unfortunately it's been discontinued due to, shall we say, less that stellar sales."...
Kaylees face fell, at the discouraging news, but the attendant reached down and hit a few keys, bringing up several inventory screens and stated...
... "But it seems that we still have one in stock. They were originally for our old children's department, but the one we have is a larger size. Yvonne will not be available, but Cleo and myself are both master seamstresses. It may take several hours, but I'm sure we can perform the necessary alterations."...
... "An' how much extra that gonna cost."... Jayne groused out, in the middle of a wide gaping yawn, as he came up from behind.
The attendants turned and regarded the rather unsavory looking "gentleman," disparagingly for a moment, then Cleo stated, as cordially as possible...
... "There shall be no charges sir."...
A slight look of relief washed over Jayne's face as Cleo appended, hopefully...
... "This may take some time sir. There are a few... entertainment establishments in the vicinity, that you might find more ... comfortable?"...
He had remembered seeing a few saloons, as they were walking from the spaceport and one, merely a few storefronts away. The dress shop looked safe enough for Kaylee to be alone in and Mal had himself claimed that there were no hard feelings about, over the killing of Mike Barrett. His only real purpose here was to pay for Kaylee's selection, so he figured there would be no harm in going for a few quick drinks, as long as he was back in time to pay the bill. Gawking at the life-like animated mannequins had stirred up certain urges, (he found himself wondering how "functional" they really were, if they actually had "women parts"). Perhaps he could even find a willing whore for a quick grapple.
Checking out the local action seemed like a better idea than hanging around in this girly-like place, so he sauntered out the door and down the street, to a quiet little frame house with a sign out front reading "Front St. Crystal Pleasure Palace." He peeked inside and although the few patrons looked a little too dandified for his liking, there was an impressive looking liquor collection behind the bar with a somewhat bored looking painted lady, at the far end. Stepping on in, with a leer and a wink, he tossed her a coin, putting her on "retainer" and hurried back to the dress shop.
Jayne didn't know how much Kaylee's bill would come to and figured, as much as he regretted it, to just pay up now and be done with it. He could tell Kaylee where to find him when she was done and just enjoy the rest of the time, without it hanging over his head, like the Sword of Damocles.
.
.
Kaylee stood ecstatically in her new dress, although it was woefully undersized, the two seamstresses were bustling around her, measuring, cutting and stitching. She recalled how bad she had felt, the time when she attended a formal ball, with the captain and a snooty, floor flushing snob had remarked that her dress looked as if it had been bought in a store, that she ought to have a word with "her girls" about it.
While her new one would look exactaly like the old one and it was in fact "store bought," she figured the next time something like that happened, she could proudly say that it was a "Madam Simoneaux" original and it wouldn't be too much of a lie to say that her girls had worked on it for hours.
She was pulled from here reverie, when Jayne burst into the shop and over the sound of a Baroque Minuet, gently playing in the background he announced...
... "Hey Kaylee!...I'm gonna go get me some trim."...
All work ceased for a moment, as all heads snapped around and he added...
... "I'll be at the Crystal Palace."...
He continued on over to the two seamstresses, who were gawking at him with a look, somewhere between astonished amazement and outright disgust, then back to Kaylee with their deepest sympathy. She obviously had abysmal taste in clothing and a pronounced lack of breeding, but she seemed like a such a sweet innocent thing, taking it all in stride. How she could have ended up with such a lout, they could only imagine.
Approaching Cleo, while gnawing on a unlit stubby cigar butt, his breath reeking of cheap liquor, he mumbled...
... "How much this here fancy piece o' frippery gonna cost me?...Might's well settle up now so's I ain't worryin' on it no more."...
... "Cleo rose up with an esasperated sigh, faced Jayne and reiterated, as if explaining to a small child...
... "There will be no charges... sir."...
Jayne's face went blank with bewilderment, for a moment, as he stopped chewing on his cigar butt. He had always been proud of his "intimidating manor" that would get him his "big scary man discounts," but he never used it on womenfolk, he did have some principals; 'sides', it never seemed to work on them anyway. There was the fact that all womenfolk secretly admired his manfulness, he figured, unless they were sly or crazy, that is. Ya that had to be it.
Not being a man to question a free offer, regardless the reason, he shrugged, informed Kaylee again on where he could be found, after she was finished with all her girly stuff and headed for the door. As he was about to step out, he stopped and though a moment. Jayne Cobb was also not a man to not take full advantage of a free offer, so he returned and grunted to Cleo...
... "Gimmi that one too."... As he pointed toward one of the display bots, he had been admiring.
She looked over to where he had pointed. Her face lit up slightly as she saw the outfit he was referring to. He obviously had far better taste in clothing than his sweet albeit "tacky" girlfriend. Maybe this Philistine actually did have a few redeming qualities.
... "Ah yes, 'Mystic Dreams', an excellent choice sir. It's one of our newest creations and limited production. As only two others are to be made, it's an investment as well. I would venture to say that it will be worth at least threefold it's present value, in time. Well worth fifty credits."... She assured him.
... "Fifty credits!"... Jayne barked...
... "How come it ain't free?"...
... "One free selection per customer... sir"... Cleo explained dryly, with an very tired sounding sigh.
... "Ain't for her."... Jayne explained, while jerking his head toward Kaylee.
... "It's for me."...
She stared at him quite oddly for a moment and Jayne quickly amended...
... "A present for someone else I know."...
Not only had this cretin brazenly announced to his lady, publicly at that, that he was going whoring, at that place, but was also buying gifts for another woman, possible some cheap whore, at best.
... "Well... I don't know."... She replied, hesitantly...
... "Give me a minute, sir."... Her and the other seamstress retreated to a corner in conference, while giving Jayne an occasional scathing glance.
While the two seamstresses were in conference, Jayne conferred with Kaylee. She had spent the previous night up, gossiping with River and knew that she had spent the last week coercing Jayne into his uncharacteristic act of gallantry toward her. The offer to buy her a new dress, she was expecting and prepared for. The idea of him getting anything for anybody, other than himself, however, without some sort of prompting or threats, even if it was free, was beyond her comprehension. After a moment of disbelief she planted a quick kiss on his cheek, as he recoiled slightly, and said...
... "Aw... that's so sweet of you Jayne, I know she'll like it an' ya, it'll look real shiny on her an' looks like it's just her size."...
... "Ya, well just don't say nothin', make somethin' up when ya give it to her, don't want no more trouble with Mal."... He grumbled.
.
.
... "Well Cleo, Yvonne was quite specific with her instructions. I suppose it's ok"... The other seamstress commented.
As they returned, Cleo acquiesced, with a forced smile...
... "Very well sir, as you wish... 'Little Miss Muffet' and 'Mystic Dreams', free of charge."...
... "Member what I said; don't tell nobody I done it."... Jayne admonished Kaylee, as he turned and headed out the door, to keep his appointment at the Crystal Palace.
Cleo and her assistant, stared for a moment at the door Jayne had just departed through, in amazement, then at Kaylee, who was still smiling, with a mixture of pity and disbelief. As they returned to work, Cleo commented, as innocuously as possible...
... "You and your beau; I must say, you have a most...interesting... arrangement."...
Kaylee gave her a puzzled look for a moment, then burst out with...
... "Oh!... you think me an' Jayne!... are..."
She waved her hand dismissively and stated with a slight chuckle...
... "Na, he's just a crewmate is all. We ain't...well you know."...
The seamstresses looked visibly relieved, as Kaylee continued...
... "Jayne's kinda mean an' all, but he's ok. Ya just need to get to know him a little better."...
Cleo, who was knelt down, working on Kaylee's hem, glanced up for a moment, then commented wryly, as she returned to her work...
... "Well with all due respect Madam, I don't believe that I do."...
.
.
Kaylee's dress fitting had taken much longer that anticipated and it wasn't until late afternoon, close to sunset, that the shuttle was back home and securely docked on Serenity's port side. Mal had been more than a little miffed at the delay.
Upon arriving back at Kingston Interstellar, it was discovered that the shuttle had been "land locked." It wasn't until he had forked over another three credits, for an overtime docking fee, that it was finally released.
Jayne seemed to have an uncanny sixth sense when it came to food. Like a slobbering bull dog close to feeding time, as soon Serenity's main cargo bay ramp "hit the dirt," he was the first one out, heading for a folding table that Mrs. Frye had set up with sandwiches, for their homecoming. Kaylee was the second one out, in her new pink fluffy dress, heading for her folks with an excited looking smile. She was whole again and the last wounds from Niska's torture session had seemed to have been fully healed. He now realized it was well worth the extra three credits, he had to pay, to have his old Kaylee back.
Haymer's financial representatives had had the funds, immediately upon his and Zoe's arrival, at their office. Twenty four thousand credits deposited to the account of Leo Harbatkin, for Serenity's maintenance and emergency fund. Ninety thousand in untraceable platinum notes and coins, for the ships payroll and incidental operating expenses. Sixty thousand credits all total, just as he had promised.
Mal wasn't sure if Durran Haymer and himself were bound to become fast friends or not, but his opinion of him had vastly improved, over the last twelve hours. Although he hated to admit it, Jayne was somewhat right, with his philosophy of "Nothin' buys bygones quicker than cash."
This was good, as it appeared as if Haymer himself would be the first to greet him, when he disembarked. Noticing him standing with his arms crossed, impatiently waiting with several of his bodyguards, he turned to head toward Inara's shuttle to retrieve the Lassiter, when he near tripped over River, still in her octopus pajamas, standing behind him.
... "Little swan want's to fly home now; shouldn't have fixed it. Some things better left broken"... She conceded contritely, while gazing at the floor.
Mal looked down at her with a lump in his throat, as she stood there holding the Lassiter's case, with the Skorpion and it's three clips of ammunition neatly layed on top, out to him. While he couldn't help but adore the sight before him, his first instinct was to lecture her about taking things that didn't belong to her without asking and what he had told her about touching guns, when she pointed out...
... "I asked this time."...
... "It seems as if our little River is attempting to apologizing to you... Captain?"... Shepherd Book prompted, as he came up from behind River, his hair now arranged in tight, neat looking cornrows and stared at Mal expectantly.
Mal glanced up and saw Inara smiling down at them from the catwalk, with Simon at her side and while not actually smiling, was looking less ridged. He looked back at River then back to Book, who just nodded his head slightly. Taking the offered weapons from the waif-like girl, he set them on the floor and pulled her into a hug as she closed her eyes, laid her head on his chest and the forlorn look on her face was replaced by a peacfull contented little smile.
.
.
Much as Mal suspected, after the exchange with Haymer, it would have been a far stretch to say they had become good buddies, but they did seem to part with a new found respect for each other. After tying up a few loose ends with the Frey's and Mrs. Miller, they lifted off into the early night sky, enroute to New Melbourne. A few hours into the flight, with sweat pouring off his brow, Jayne was struggling to return the barbell to it's rest on his weight bench. He had decided on a good workout, to help him forget the day's events.
The whore that he had "retained" at the Crystal Palace, as it turned out, was not a whore at all, at least not of the type that he had at first imagined. After fleeing from her room in horror, following a rather startling discovery concerning her anatomy, he had ordered a stiff drink at the bar to calm his nerves. On a closer inspection of the other patrons and some of the activities going on in dark corners, it had come to him like an epiphany, that he was the only man in there that wasn't sly.
He went back to the dress shop to spend the rest of the day being bored sick and hoping that the two ladies, that were attending to Kaylee, didn't know the nature of the establishment that he had announced going to. If they did know, then he hoped even harder that they hadn't told Kaylee.
The preacher was still in too weak, from his ordeal during Niska's little "party", to join him for a workout and spot. Nobody else had the time or desire to do so and he had nearly outdone himself, but with a final clenching of teeth and a loud groan, the weight clanked safely back into it's rest. He layed there for a minuet to catch his breath when he heard the rapid clomping of boots, on the catwalk grating above and...
... "Apology accepted!"... As River's voice shrilled out, announcing her arrival.
He had made Kaylee promise not to tell, to say it was a get well present from the crew or something. He knew she wouldn't go back on her word to him, but, he suddenly remembered, with the crazy girl that probably wouldn't make that much difference anyway. Muttering, he sat up and glared up at her on the catwalk, smiling down at him.
She twirled around, with a beaming smile, a few times, "modeling" her new ensemble. It was a slightly knee length navy blue dress with side slits and a ghostly, navy blue overlay, flowing down almost wraith-like, to just above her boots. Over her back was a light blue silky coat, with silvery little dragons and various other oriental designs. It made the little witch look even more witch-like. He figured she'd like it.
He had to admit to himself, however, that she did look somewhat appealing in it. Of course he had noticed that from the moment she popped out of that box, so long ago, even if she wasn't all there. That, however, was before he found out exactaly how much she wasn't all there.
... "Didn't have no oranges."... He barked up at her and grumbled...
... "Hope that's enough."...
... "New feathers are an equitable substitute"... She affirmed placidly, while balancing on her toes with her arms spread out, staring up at the ceiling.
... "Huh?"... He mumbled, with a blank look.
... "It's enough."... She simplified, while dropping back down on her soles and staring back at him.
... "Well that's good, 'cause I don't wanna hear no more squawkin' 'bout it."... he snapped and added ...
... "An' it's jus' for special 'casions; don't wanna see ya layin' around on the floor with it. Cost me a ruttin' fortune." ... He complained bitterly, as he stood up and began toweling himself off.
... "No it didn't."... She chided him archly, while leaning over the railing with a roguish grin.
Jayne had also forgot, that lying to her would also just be an exercise in futility. Sheepishly he backpedaled...
... "Uh...ya... But the lady at the store said it's worth a lot o' coin, so don't go messin' it all up."...
... "An don't go flappin' your crazy mouth 'bout this either."... He admonished sourly.
Then a sickening thought settled in his gut. She was obviously digging around in his head and if she knew about the dress being free, then she probably knew about his other somewhat embarrassing encounter that day. Concentrating of how much he despised the little freak up on the catwalk, he tried his best to block that thought out of his mind and barked out emphatically...
... "Or about nothin' else!"...
... "Nobody knows about Ariel."... She pointed out, while rocking back and forth on her heels with her hands folded behind her.
He wasn't ready for her to dig that up and it shot through him like a knife, as a haunted look came over him. He had to give her credit though, as it never did seem like anyone else knew about his shameful little secret. Then he remembered the doc confronting him about it one time, while he was incapacitated in the medical bay and fired back belligerently...
... "Well you went told that Joo Fuen Chse brother of yours!"...
River's demeanor changed faster than Badger's, as she stopped rocking and narrowed her eyes at him. He recoiled as an cold chill shot through him and pondered on her claim of... "I can kill you with my brain." She stated pointedly, with icy flames in her eyes...
... "That's different... Simon's my Da-Ghuh,... needed to know."...
Jayne regained his bearings slightly and proceeded, warily...
... "Uh...ya, but he ain't gotta know 'bout none o' this... does he?"...
She continued glaring at him for a moment, then as quickly as her continence changed, it went back to the former. She hopped up on the first rail of the catwalk, balancing on one foot with her arms spread out and assured...
... "No, not this time."...
She hopped up on the top rail and while walking along it, with her arms waiving around in little circles at her sides, she added casually...
... "Simon likes Kaylee, not interested in your sexual leanings."...
... "Gorrammit, girl!"... Jayne bellowed out...
... "You been peekin' 'round in my head!...You know 'bout that, you know it was a ruttin' accident. I ain't like that an' you know it!"...
River jumped back down to the catwalk laughing hysterically, leaned over the railing toward him, as far as she could and sang out teasingly, in a sing song voice...
... "Fooled you!... easier than Simon."...
... "You know I don't like your buggy games either."...Jayne muttered, as she continued laughing.
River calmed down slightly, as he looked back up to her and appealed, worriedly...
... "Ya ain't gonna say nothin' bout...nothin' ...to nobody?... are ya?"...
She cocked her head to the side, as if in serious thought and stared back, as Jayne awaited her answer, sweating peanut butter.
Finally after several long moments a sweet smile came over her face, as she chirped...
... "Pick a lock!"... while making a quick turning motion with her hand, at the corner of her mouth. Jayne breathed a sigh of relief, surpassed only by the one the time Mal closed the airlock door at the last minute, before spacing him.
River started drifting off toward the dinning area, when she stopped, wrinkled her brow and stared down at something disapprovingly, down by Jayne's weight bench. She started down the stairs to the cargo bay floor, as Jayne laid back to begin another set of bench presses. Just as he grasped hold of the bar, River unlocked the locking collar on the heavily laden barbell, swatted it off onto the floor, went over to the other side and repeated the action.
Startled, Jayne bolted up and snapped venomously at her...
... "What the gorram hell ya playin' at now, ya little freak!... Why can't you just leave me the ta-ma-da alone!"...
She just stared back at him and causally commented...
... "Don't have a spotter; dangerous... should know better"... while shaking her head at him reprovingly. She turned and wandered off toward the commons, while stating matter of factly...
... "Much safer now."...
The End
.
A/N:... "Locking Collars."
For those of you who have never done any weight training, "Locking Collars" are what lock the weights onto the barbell.
In many weight training scenarios, working without an assistant (Spotter) can be quite dangerous, especially "bench presses." What can happen is that you can get so tired that you can't get the barbell back up to the rest and you get trapped under it. Back in high school, my phys. ed. coach told us of a time when this happened to somebody and the weight bar rolled down onto his neck and crushed his larynx.
Bench presses can be done solo in relative safety, however, if you leave the locking collars off. If you get in a situation like that, all you have to do is pull one side of the bar down to the side and the weights spill off. The weights on the other side will now automatically pull that side down, taking the bar with them and you're free. If their locked on however, you might have a serious problem.
Thought I'd include that, as some peeps might not under stand what River was doing at the end there, or why.
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