TITLE: "THE CIRCLE UNBROKEN"

AUTHOR: Alison M. DOBELL

FANDOM: "FIREFLY"

PAIRING: Zoe/Wash. Kaylee/Simon.

RATING: G.

STATUS: Sequel to "PRIME MOVERS".

ARCHIVE: Yes. Just let me know where.

FEEDBACK: Welcomed.

EMAIL: AlisonMDobell@aol.com

WEBSITE: None. All Firefly stories archived at Fireflyfans.net

SUMMARY: "Zoe informs the crew of Inara's efforts to contact them

and shares some information with Simon which causes him more

than a little consternation and concern."

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.

"THE CIRCLE UNBROKEN"

"Firefly" story

Written by Alison M. DOBELL

* * * * *

Kaylee's eyes widened, a spark of hope taking root. "'Nara called?"

Zoe's expression was grim. Everyone had gathered in the commons room at her call, Simon reluctantly leaving the sleeping Captain to join them. "She did. Twice."

The mechanic's euphoria reined back a notch, confusion creeping into her face as what Zoe said sank in. "Twice?"

"The first wave was about an hour ago. Had a short conversation - cut her off. She contacted us again a few minutes ago."

It was obvious that the crew did not know what to think. Kaylee recovered first. "Why'd ya cut 'Nara off?"

Eyes narrowing, the first mate's expression hardened. "You forgettin' how she left, what she said?"

"No, but..."

Shepherd Book interrupted. "What did Inara want?"

"To speak to the Cap'n, apologise an' come back to Serenity."

A look of relief swept across Kaylee's face. "See? Told ya there had to be some mistake."

"Kaylee!"

Startled the young girl stared at the first mate, not knowing why she was suddenly so angry with her. "*Shenme*? Just sayin' is all..."

"No, you're makin' excuses for her."

"No, I was..."

"*Bi zui*! Truth of the matter is Inara was here to spy on us, or