Disclaimer: Joss, Fox, Universal Own em’. (Except for Maxine and the rest of my OC's. they're mine) I’m just playing. No money being made.

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A new story line to recharge my Muse. Set outside my “Allanverse.” Just to see what happens. Set about a year and a half post Serenity. Story line has the standard pairings of Mal/Inara, Simon/Kaylee. Also has River/Jayne. Zoë/Maxine

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Warning: This story line from here on out will include 'gasp' fem slash (Like you didn't see it coming). It won't be graphic but I know some are offended by any depiction of homosexuality. If you don't like this kind of thing... stop reading right now.

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New Blood

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Chapter Twenty Two

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The crew gathered around the table except for Jayne. The big man stood off to one side so he could keep an eye on their old 'friend' the Operative.

Everyone sat with shocked expressions on their faces as the dark skinned man finished his story.

“Direct rule... what little rights we have now, taken away?” Simon breathed.

“And if any world does not capitulate, Pax will be used,” The operative said darkly, “Elimination of Parliament, the court system. Enforcement of mandatory military service... the list goes on.”

“Merciful Buddha,” Inara whispered.

“The Guild will loose it's independence as well,” Damien continued, “Companions will no longer have autonomy to pick and choose their clients. If this comes to pass, they will become nothing more than sex slaves.”

“Ain't gonna happen,” Jayne growled, “Folk ain't gonna stand for it.”

“That, therein lies the problem. This is why the Academy project is suddenly surging forward after a nearly three year hiatus. They need psychics to root out those dissenters who have the resources to mount a real revolution. I fear war is coming and it won't just be fought on the rim like last time... it will be in the streets of Shinon and Londinium.”

“Make the last war look like a skirmish,” Zoë observed.

“It's powder keg already,” Josiah commented, “There's been riots on the