CHAPTER 8

As soon as they hit the Black, Mal ordered Elle to the bridge. Simon complained that she needed rest, but Mal argued that they needed a course more. For Kaylee’s sake, Simon relented and Jayne escorted Elle to the bridge. The bridge was full—Wash at the helm, Zoë at his side, Simon at ready with his med-kit, Jayne helping Elle into the co-pilot’s chair. Inara had outfitted Elle a blue and gold robe which covered her hospital gown. At some point, Jayne had washed the dried blood out of her hair. She easily adopted the appearance of a well-bred individual, despite the bandage on her neck.

“You said you had a few contacts,” Mal opened, waving his hand at the console.

She nodded and held out a piece of paper. Mal took the paper and read it, then handed it to Wash. Wash issued a few commands and opened hail.

“That’s it?” Mal asked, a little put out. “You have one contact.”

“One very good contact. Whenever you’re flying blind, he’s the one who can direct you.”

Mal raised his eyebrows in disbelief. “Mr. Universe?”

“I’m surprised you haven’t heard of him. It would explain your oft disorientation.”

At that moment, the screen buzzed. A tanned man with dark, curly hair appeared on the screen. Wash completed the vid connection.

“Misty!” he greeted. Then on seeing Wash, he furrowed his bushy brow and said “You’re not Misty.”

“I’m over here,” Elle said, redirecting the vid stream to her terminal.

“Misty?” Mal mouthed at her, doubt still on his face.

“I go by many names,” she told him, then directed her attention to the screen.

“Misty, there you are!” Mr. Universe said. “I heard you were dead!”

“I expect a man in your position hears that often.”

“As a matter of fact, I got word that you died on at least three separate worlds since Monday.”

“It’s been a busy week.”

“You always do manage to have a knight in shining armor waiting to rescue you.”

“I do,” Elle said, with a relaxed smile.

“Hey, check out my damsel in distress!” he said excitedly, panning the screen to a blonde robot. E