The Last Spartan – Chapter Thirty-Three

Yet another disclaimer. There’s more disclaimers around here than Carter has peanuts, ain’t they? I don’t own Firefly. I know it comes as a shock, but I swear it’s true.

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River entered the study to find Janos sitting at his desk. It was just after sunset, and she noted at once that he was dressed for battle. Black uniform, body armor, all the accessories that a soldier needed for war.

“What are you doing, Janos?” she asked at once. He looked up sharply, smiling when he saw her.

“A few last minute details before I go,” he told her truthfully, sealing an envelope and placing in his coat pocket. “What are you doing, My Lady?”

“I am wondering why you have walled yourself away from me,” River told him plainly, a trace of fear in her eyes. “I cannot feel you at all.”

“I didn’t know I had,” Janos told her, though he did. It was better this way, or at least he hoped so.

“Where are you going?” she asked quietly, seeing his gear lying beside his desk.

“I’m taking a little business trip,” he smiled, but it didn’t reach his eyes. “I know who is responsible for all this misery, and where he is. I intend to call upon him this evening, and explain my displeasure in person.”

“Take me with you,” she said at once. He shook his head.

“No, meus rosea, not this time. You are not yet fully adjusted. You will be a danger not only to yourself, but others. And I would not have that.”

“I should be with you,” River objected, eyes blinking back tears.

“And so you shall be,” Janos smiled, and this time the smile did light his eyes. “Right here,” he tapped his chest, over his heart. She heard the knocking of body armor beneath his sweater.

“You know what I mean!” she retorted. “This is all because of me! I should not be left here, while you and others fight my battles!”

“Your battles?” Janos looked at her, puzzled. “My home, our home,” he amended, “was attacked. Our friend shot. Our celebration disrupted. I’d say it’s no longer just your battle, River, i