The Last Spartan – Chapter Nineteen

Author owns no rights to Firefly, nor it’s related characters, writing without recompense for his own entertainment.

--------------------

It was a sad day for the crew of Serenity when the ship entered orbit over Londinium. In minutes, Mal was yelling for Jayne.

“Jayne! You better have some clout around here, or we ain’t going no further!”

Jayne walked to the bridge. Mal pointed to the cortex screen, where a very officious looking traffic controller was looking at Mal with a pinched face. His look lessened a great deal at the sight of Jayne.

“Is there a problem?” Jayne asked. He was wearing a very subdued crimson robe, really a jacket, with an odd seal on the breast pocket. Gone was the goatee, the scruff look. Jayne looked every inch the nobleman.

“M. . .My Lord Janos,” the controller stammered. “Forgive me, My Lord,” the man bowed. “I was not aware you were aboard ship.”

“Now that you are aware, is there any compelling reason why Captain Reynolds cannot land his vessel at my estate?” Jayne’s voice was like liquid helium.

“Of course not!” the controller looked off screen, waving hurriedly at someone out of view. Suddenly Serenity’s printer began chattering with landing permits and codes.

“Thank you,” Jayne nodded, and switched the still stammering and sputtering official off.

“Well, that was impressive,” Mal snorted.

“It’s who you know,” Jayne smiled thinly. “Mal, I want to ask you, once more. Please, at least consider staying as my guest for a few days. It will cost you nothing, and there will be no indebtedness whatsoever. You have been good to me,” Jayne lied through his teeth. “Allow me, in whatever way I can, to repay that kindness. You are welcome here.”

Mal said nothing, looking at Jayne closely.

“Need to find work,” he said suddenly.

“I have just paid you more than you can make in three months to bring River and I home,” Jayne pointed out. “You can refuel your ship from my stores, at my expense. There is no valid reason not to enjoy the time