Keeping On: Part 2 - Needle in the Haystack

Disclaimer: Firefly, Serenity, and all related characters are copyright 2002-2005 Mutant Enemy, Inc., Universal Pictures, and 20th Century Fox. This is a work of fanfiction. No copyright infringement is intended.

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One Month Later…

“I thank you for your understanding, Mistress D’Alma. Your graciousness and discretion in this matter has been a comfort to my worried mind.” Inara said.

“All things happen for a reason, Mei mei. I will speak to the Guild council and inform them of your wishes and things will be sorted. After all, every challenge is but an opportunity in disguise.” A kind-faced woman looked back at her.

“I thank you again.”

“Zhu fu ni, Mei mei.”

“And to you.”

Inara gave a warm smile as she bid the House Priestess a fond farewell and ended the wave. She re-hung the curtain which concealed her Cortex screen and rose to continue straightening her shuttle up, which she had been doing before the wave interrupted her.

Thank goodness that is done – for the moment, at least. I pray that I am doing the right thing.

“Ah, Inara! Searching for clients after you little sabbatical?”

There stood Mal, smiling widely, thumbs under his suspenders, in her shuttle. He was easily and positively the most infuriating man she had ever met. By his words, he must have entered when she was covering the screen.

“It’s rather nice to hear you knock, Mal, but a shame it only happens in my imagination. What is your business here?” She gave a smile to ease her words.

“Well, if I’m interrupting yours, maybe I’d better go.” Mal said.

“No. Please, stay. I was merely discussing a few matters with one of my superiors back on Sihnon before you entered.” Inara bit back the “unasked.”

Things with Mal had been tense ever since the crew had started to repair Serenity after the events at Mr. Universe’s moon. She had not taken a client since she left Serenity back befo