TITLE: "FAITH, HOPE AND GREED"

AUTHOR: Alison M. DOBELL

FANDOM: "FIREFLY"

PAIRING: Zoe/Wash. Kaylee/Simon. Mal/Inara.

RATING: G..

STATUS: Sequel to "STRIKING BACK".

ARCHIVE: Yes. Just let me know where.

FEEDBACK: Welcomed.

EMAIL: AlisonMDobell@aol.com

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

SUMMARY: "The crew discuss what to do next and Simon has a

surprise for the Captain. Behind the scenes the Operative continues

to pull strings. Meanwhile Gabriel Tam faces up to some home truths."

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.

"FAITH, HOPE AND GREED"

"Firefly" story

Written by Alison M. DOBELL

* * * * *

"*Wo bu dong*, if the other half has been destroyed what good is it?"

Mistress Barbette gave Zoe a level look. Still squirming, Badger would have slunk away but one look at Jayne's impressive bulk casually blocking the exit caused him to ditch that plan. After all, it wasn't as if they were on a planet and he could go to ground. Plus his mother would no doubt have far too much to say on the subject if he tried anything.

"This," she held the device carefully in one hand "is the control section." The House Mother looked at River and waited for the girl's nod. "Beyond that, I don't know what it does."

River sidled closer but made no attempt to touch it. "Also a repository."

Wash blinked. "Repository?"

"All the things they don't want you to know."

Even though Badger was trying to make himself as small as possible he couldn't help perking up. After all, information was power and that made it valuable, *dui*? "So 'ow much is it worth?"

Every eye turned to Badger. "*Shenme*? It's mine, on'y right I know what it's worth."

"It's not yours." Said Zoe firmly.

"He gave to me, *dong ma*?"

Shepherd Book was watched Badger