The orange flame of Heinlein simmered just below the edge of the eastern horizon. With their duffels and instruments slung over their backs, Anna and Wray trundled through the dewy grass up to the loading ramp of Serenity. It was a few minutes before 7 a.m. They had said their goodbyes last night to the troupe which had been their home, their family. Now they were on their own. Anna stumbled slightly as she went to rest her duffel. Wray was at her side, instantly concerned. He helped her lower it off her shoulder. She smiled tenderly at him. “You’re sure you brought it?” he asked. She nodded. The clang and creak of metal signaled the opening of the ship’s door. Mal stuck his head outside.

“Well, good mornin’ to you, travelers. Welcome aboard.” He waved the two on. Wray grabbed Anna’s duffel before she could and followed her up the ramp and inside. He took a look around the spacious hold, laying their baggage on the floor. “You must be the husband,” Mal wandered over for introductions.

“Yes. Wray. Wray Shen.” He shook the captain’s hand.

“Glad to have you and your wife aboard, Mr. Shen. Now, before we get you settled in, I’m gonna have to ask for your fares up front.”

“Of course.” Wray reached into his pocket and withdrew ten platinum, placing them in Mal’s outstretched palm.

“Much obliged,” Mal smiled broadly. “Excuse me a moment while I seal up the airlock here, then I’ll show you to your room.” Wray nodded. A look passed between him and his wife as Mal headed for the control panel. He slapped on the com. “Zoe, passengers are aboard. How we lookin’?”

“Everything’s green up here, sir. We’re ready to go when you are.”

“That’s what I like to hear. Nothin’ like an early departure.” He retracted the loading ramp. “Cargo bay sealed. Take us out.” The hull shivered as the whine of Serenity’s jets gradually increased. The deck lurched a little and Wray and Anna grabbed each other for balance.

“Nothin’ to worry about folks,” Mal assured them. “Just a little jolt ‘fore