INT. SERENITY - PAUL'S BUNK

Paul is kneeling on a small mat, hands on his thighs, eyes closed. The lights are dimmed. Two candles burn on a short mantel.

A gentle knock on the door breaks the silence. Paul's eyes do not open.

PAUL: Come in.

Simon appears as the door slides open. He takes a half step inside, eyes wandering around the room.

SIMON: Am I disturbing your meditation?

PAUL: (rising to his feet) Yes, but that's all right.

SIMON: Oh, okay. (beat. shuffles his feet) Paul, um, Sifu, I feel as if I should... apologize... to you. For what I've said, and how I treated you. And... thank you for rescuing me, er, us...from...

Paul raises a hand.

PAUL: Considering all you've been through with River thus far, your actions were more than justified. In fact, I thought you were a little too easy-going.

SIMON: (sheepishly) Well, honestly, I didn't want you to kill me. I've seen the damage my sister can do. I can only imagine what her instructor would be capable of.

Paul laughs a warm, heart-felt laugh.

PAUL: You've nothing to fear from me, Simon. But I appreciate the consideration. And of course, you're welcome. For the rescue.

Simon nods, stands for an uncomfortable beat, then exits the room, closing the door behind himself.

Paul shakes his head, smiling as he lays on his bed and picks up a book.

INT. SERENITY - MAL'S BUNK

Mal is sitting on his bed, holding the Alliance tunic in his hands, elbows on his knees. His expressiont is hard as he stares at the uniform. He closes his eyes a beat, his expression softening.

MAL: It's just a gorram uniform. Buck up, Captain.

Mal stands and strips off his shirt.

MAL: (from under his shirt) Annals of history...

INT. SERENITY - BRIDGE

Jane is leaning against the aft wall, arms crossed. Zoe is leaning over River's shoulder, examining one of the screens.

JAYNE: I don't like it. This plan's got more holes 'n a gorram... And it ain't like it's all secret-like no more.

ZOE: (curt, without looking up) Liking the plan