TITLE: "OUTSIDE INFLUENCES"

AUTHOR: Alison M. DOBELL

FANDOM: "FIREFLY"

PAIRING: Zoe/Wash. Kaylee/Simon.

RATING: G.

STATUS: Sequel to "THE CIRCLE UNBROKEN".

ARCHIVE: Yes. Just let me know where.

FEEDBACK: Welcomed.

EMAIL: AlisonMDobell@aol.com

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

SUMMARY: "Regan and Gabriel have an unexpected visitor. The

Captain decides to let Inara contact them again against Zoe's objections.

Just as it is looking as if they have made a clean get away the

crew are accosted by an unknown ship."

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.

"OUTSIDE INFLUENCES"

"Firefly" story

Written by Alison M. DOBELL

* * * * *

James Henderson was a tall sparse man with a shock of wheat coloured unruly hair. His lean face was weathered but pleasant, laughter lines crowded into every inch of skin and sun ripened into a rich healthsome tan. Though tall he walked with a slight stoop as if his body was forever apologising for towering over people. Mrs Tam had been surprised to see him at her door and now was equally intrigued when he made his formal introduction as Brother James from the Monastery of Joseph of Aramathea.

"*Qing jin*, brother. To what do we owe the honour of this visit?"

His pleasant face took on a serious cast and Regan was relieved when her husband joined them. His look of surprise quickly hidden though his curiosity was not. "I have been asked to see if there is anything I can do for you."

The Tams exchanged a baffled look. "I'm not sure I follow." Said Gabriel. "Who did you say sent you?"

Brother James chuckled. A warm rich sound that tapered off too soon. "I didn't say, *duibuqi*. I believe you are acquainted with Shepherd Book?"

Now the Tams were wary. Gabriel nodded his head. "We are."

"*Hen hao*.