Big Blue Chapter 1

Disclaimer: Joss, Fox, Universal Own em’. I’m just playing. No money being made.

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This story takes place almost three years after Serenity (BDM) and has the established couples of Simon/Kaylee, Mal/Inara, Zoë/OC and Jayne/River. Follows immediately after Out to the Blue.

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A/N: Thanks again Chris for the Beta.

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Big Blue

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Chapter One – Beginnings

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The day broke cold and rainy on Belepheron. The entire crew thought it appropriate due to the cargo they would be carrying to Shinon.

The body of Mistress Sheydra.

When Inara asked Mal if Serenity could transport Sheydra back home for the funeral, he didn't even hesitate in his agreement.

Durin Haymer was deemed stable enough to move from Serenity's infirmary to a hastily prepared room in his home.

The gun battle had been short and bloody. Every one of the gunmen and Blue Hands involved had been killed in the battle. Four Alliance security personnel had been killed and three wounded. One party guest had been severely wounded and a score had minor injuries from flying debris.

An Alliance medical team efficiently moved Durin Haymer from the small med bay on Serenity to the house while a small honor guard carried the flag draped casket containing the body of the slain Companion up the ramp into Serenity's cargo bay.

The crew stood in their usual pairings. A crying Inara on Mal's arm while Kaylee sniffled on Simon's arm. River and Jayne along with Allan and Zoë stood on the other side of the small procession as it entered the ship. River standing in front of Jayne, his arms protectively around her waist. Allan and Zoë, hand in hand. Alisha stood next to her sister.

Mal had originally balked at the thought that the honor guard would be accompanying them to Shinon but after some persuading by Inara, and a request from the head of the Guild herself, Mal agreed.

The five man detail would maintain the vigil around the clock in shifts. The detail consisted of a young Lieutenant, two sargents and