INT. SERENITY - BRIDGE

River sits in the pilot’s seat, maneuvering the yoke, still typing with one hand. Zoe stands behind her, arms crossed.

RIVER: They’ve swept the plex. We seem to have fallen under their scope.

ZOE: Let’s pray we’re dismissed as an inconsequencial. But just in case... (picks up the mic) Kaylee, we still set up for a hasty getaway?

KAYLEE (VO): (uncertainty in her voice) Ye... yeah.

ZOE: We have to let things run their course. I promise you, we’re not abandoning the Captain. (hangs up mic)

RIVER: Done.

ZOE: Comms?

RIVER: Yup. (flips a switch)

Nothing comes from the speaker for a beat. Zoe glances at River. River continues maneuvering the yoke, her face calm, confident.

Zoe opens her mouth to speak...

VO RADIO: Dropping lines... now. (beat) Teams One and Two deploying. (beat)Touchdown successful.

Zoe and River exchange glances, both confused.

INT. COMM. PLEX - WASHROOM

Mal splashes water on his face and looks at himself in the mirror. His tattered uniform lies in a pile on the floor. He stands wearily, leaning on the sink.

MAL: Now what?

He scrubs the last of the dirt from his face and dries off. With a disgusted look he retrieves the plain tech uniform hanging on the wall. He holds it up to inspect.

MAL: Demoted again.

Mal pulls on the trousers, cinching the belt, then slips the simple tunic over his head. It’s a good fit. He inspects himself in the mirror.

MAL: God, I miss my suspenders.

Mal pulls on his boots, scoops up the destroyed uniform, making sure to place the platinum in a zipper pocket. He exits the washroom.

INT. COMM. PLEX - HALLWAY

Mal comes through the washroom door to meet the guards waiting on either side.

GUARD ONE: Feeling human again, sir?

MAL: Very nearly, thanks.

GUARD TWO: We’re to stay with you til the drill is over.

MAL: (falls into step with them) I’ve been lucky enough to avoid those up til now. Mind if I asked what’s involved?

GUARD ONE: More dramatics than anything. (points down the hall