TITLE: "COMPLICATIONS"

AUTHOR: Alison M. DOBELL

FANDOM: "FIREFLY"

PAIRING: No specific pairing.

RATING: PG-13.

STATUS: New. SEQUEL to "PAYING DUES".

ARCHIVE: Yes. Just let me know where.

FEEDBACK: Welcomed.

EMAIL: AlisonMDobell@aol.com

WEBSITE: http://carlajane.50megs.com/Ali00.html

SUMMARY: "As the novelty of Minerva wears off the crew have

a decision to make. Meanwhile Mal meets the rest of Rafe Connor's

crew and for the first time in a long while feels a sense of peace."

The usual disclaimers apply. The characters and 'Firefly'

are the property and gift of Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy.

No infringement of copyright is intended.

"COMPLICATIONS"

A "Firefly" story

Written by Alison M. DOBELL

* * * * *

The smells from the kitchen were all kinds of tantalising but Zoe was sure she would not be able to eat a gorram thing. The Shepherd watched the worry on her face and knew what she was thinking. Knew she was also blaming herself which was about as much use as a snowball in *diyu*. Everybody had been talking all at once, some offering advice, others wanting to know what the good gorram they were going to do. Simon noticed that River seemed more focused than normal and was very quiet, her eyes following the speakers as if her ears didn't work. "River, are you okay?"

Even though he had whispered the back and forth of conversation hitched as if only her answer would kick start it back into motion. "River's fine." His sister said then turned and looked at his plate, the Preacher's culinary masterpiece hardly touched at all. "You should eat your greens."

Jayne gave a muffled chuckle. "I'll eat 'em for ya if ya ain't got room, doc."

Kaylee batted his hand away as he made to reach over the table but it was half hearted. Truth to tell they were all happy for even a little pathetic light relief about now. Shepherd Book served himself last then sat down, hesitating as to whether or not to pray out loud. Then