Disclaimers : Everything belongs to Joss, except for one character of my creation.

**Mousing over the Chinese should reveal the English translations on most browsers. If not, translations follow the story.

***This installment rated a little stronger for the inclusion of some, um, carnal knowledge. Nothing explicit, probably R-rated at best, but...just know going in!***

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“To Inara!” Mal said, raising his wine glass. “For gettin’ us a decent job that’ll keep us flyin’ for awhile!” The others raised their glasses in the toast, and a chorus of “to Inara” rang out around the table.

“’Course, since ‘Nara ain’t here, somebody has to drink her wine!” Jayne said, pouring a second glass and downing it before anyone had a chance to object.

Supper actually consisted of some real food and fresh produce, since they had gotten paid and paid well. As it turned out, the drop had gone flawlessly, and, now, with fresh food, supplies and fuel on board, they were once again en route to Zargon.

“Inara ‘waved a while ago,” Wash said. “Just wanted to know things went all right.”

“You thanked her profusely, I hope, and told her things was shiny?” Mal asked.

“I did, indeed.” Wash took a large swallow of his wine.

“Everything going well for her?” Mal pressed further.

“She said everything’s great, but she misses us.”

Mal shook his head and grinned.

“Every time I think I should stop dealin’ with her and anyone she knows, she ends up surprising me again. I really thought this job might go south...” he glanced across at Alex as he spoke “...but here we are eatin’ fresh fruit and sittin’ on a big pile of coin.”

Mal looked happier and more relaxed than the crew had seen him in quite awhile. No one was sure if it was the successful job or the sleep he had gotten, but it was a welcome change.

Simon elbowed Alex and leaned close. “Maybe we should toast you for dopin’ him last night,” he said in a whisper. Alex smir