Chapter Two: A Way of Dying

By Cassandra E

Warning: Rating R- Rape/violence in first scene.

A/Notes: I tried to find a way around the warning above, but the story writes itself. So please forgive if I offend anyone. Colin Foster and Ian Black are new characters, so they belong to me. So does Annie James. Thank you to all who reviewed so far, I must be doing something right. To Visionary, I cracked up at your comment-*depressing plot wise* I must say you are right; it was done on purpose so far. You’ll see my point for it as the story progresses. Although, I must say this is the last chapter that Inara will truly suffer in. I hate doing this to her. Ch. 3 on up…a little happier. And many thanks to Neroli; I am so glad you’re my beta!

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The Next Day

It was late into the evening, all the hired servants had left; the slaves were all in their sleeping quarters. Lord and Lady Harrow, along with Jeremiah, had left for a ball given at the Lord Asano’s Estate. Inara had stayed with Annie in kitchen, helping her clean up the day’s work. The cook had entertained Inara with tales of her youth, along with memories of her husband, Henry. Inara enjoyed the way Annie had drawn her in, her mind captivated with the stories. When Annie had tried to pry a little on Inara’s past she had said very little, changing the topic. The old woman, wise in her years, understood Inara’s reluctance. Trust wasn’t an easy thing to come by, especially these days, where the Alliance government could buy anyone’s word at a price. Afterwards Annie had snuck some more food to Inara, a fare of toast and purloined ham.

“I am turnin’ in now. You best git on. I’ll be gettin’ ya things ready for tomorrow.” Annie said. Both women had kept silent on escape, not wanting to tempt fate or luck.

Inara smiled at her friend. “I will. I just need to turn down the light in the parlor room.”

“Best be careful now.”

“Yes, Annie.”

Inara watched her friend depart as she stood up from the wooden stool. She turned