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.

AN: On a roll this week. This (should) be the next to last chapter in this arc. What started as a storyline to recharge turned into it's own monster.

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New Blood

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Chapter Twenty Six

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“Cao!” Simon swore behind his mask as another bleeder erupted in Maxine's chest. Working quickly, the young doctor clamped off the ruptured artery.

“I've got it, Doctor,” said the fleet surgeon who was assisting.

“Thank you,” Simon muttered as he began to repair the damage done to Maxine by the bullet that had nearly killed her.

The round had struck the redhead just under her left arm, traversing her chest, narrowly missing Maxine's heart. Both lungs were damaged but easily repaired. What had nearly killed her was the nick in her aorta.

Continuing to work, Simon prayed he could save Maxine's life. Because that if she died, Zoë just might too.

Outside the infirmary, Zoë paced back and forth in a daze. Occasionally glancing through the windows as Simon, the fleet doctor and a nurse worked on her Ai-ren.

“Zoë... you need to sit down,” said Gunnery Sargent Williams.

“I can't loose her...” Zoë whispered.

“She's in good hands,” The Marine replied, moving up to Zoë's side and laying a supporting hand on the taller woman's shoulder, “Doc Lee in there is the best in the fleet and from what I've heard about Dr. Tam, he's no slouch either.”

“Best I ever see