Based on the world of Firefly by Joss Whedon

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She moved in the darkness each step seemed like it was planned out, almost automatic. Her eyes took in the area around her, the faintest of light giving her enough to which to see the shadows which surrounded, eerie whispers echoing as she walked.

It felt like the tunnel she had been in earlier in her adventure minus the form of River telling her she could not die. Sadly, maybe at that moment, she really needed someone there to encourage her that the thing she was about to do was the right decision. Someone that she knew was braver and who she she trusted.

From the darkness, Mal appeared, his brown coat wrapped around him. Into his arms, she fell and drew in the scent of him. He pulled her close and held her a minute, before letting her go. “You okay, boa bei?”

“No. No, I'm not.” She wiped the tears that had welled up in her eyes.

“You know I'll do anything for you.” He stood there, his brown hair slightly messy and blue eyes looking at her with that sense of protection she had learned to appreciate. “All you have to do is ask.”

“Not this time.”

“And why's that?” He reached to touch her, but she moved away.

“Because you're not real, even though I wish with all my heart you were because then I wouldn't have to do what I know could cost both our lives.”

“I'm standing before you, ain't I?” He spun so she could see all of him and she smiled.

“Yes, my love, you are, but because you're a composite of my memories, and I needed you.” She watched as her mind's version of Mal faded away. “I always need you.”

Walking again, Cat continued toward what appeared to be a very big and nasty looking door. It was where she had to go, even though it wasn't her smartest idea.

“You know I won't kill you.” A voice behind her stated and as she turned, Ski stood a few feet away.

“You can, if need be.” She stated, but her husband shook his head.

“Not killing you to protect your cap