TITLE: "INBETWEEN"

AUTHOR: Alison M. DOBELL

FANDOM: "FIREFLY"

PAIRING: None.

RATING: PG-13.

STATUS: Sequel to "PHASE ONE".

ARCHIVE: Yes. Just let me know where.

FEEDBACK: Welcomed.

EMAIL: AlisonMDobell@aol.com

WEBSITE: None. All Firefly stories archived at Fireflyfans.net

SUMMARY: "Mal is found and brought back to Serenity.

Ritchie is overwhelmed with the need to be reunited with

his wife. Meanwhile Kaylee finds out what gummed up

Monty's engine and Inara waits for the Captain to wake up."

The usual disclaimers apply. The characters and 'Firefly'

are the property and gift of Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy.

No infringement of copyright is intended.

"INBETWEEN"

"Firefly" story

Written by Alison M. DOBELL

* * * * *

To be honest Zoe had not expected to find the Captain so soon. The plan was to head for the relay station then see if Jayne could pick up any tracks. Halfway between the relay station and Serenity they found him. He lay in an ungainly heap, his clothing muddied and torn, the right arm soaked in blood, his clothing ripped. Zoe stopped so abruptly Simon almost tumbled out of the mule but he didn't complain, all his attention on their unconscious Captain. Instead of relaxing when they found him, River seemed to become more alert. Edgy even.

"Be ready."

Jayne scowled but lifted Vera into an easy firing position. His eyes scanning round them. "*Shenme*? What we lookin' for?"

River seemed unsettled, anxious for Simon to examine the Captain back on Serenity. He was taking too long. "We don't have time. Hurry, Simon!"

"River, I need to make sure it's safe to move him."

She shook her head, her eyes seeking Zoe's. Hoping her urgency would do what her words could not. "We have to go, *dong ma*?"

Without knowing what was spooking the girl Zoe nodded and motioned for Simon to help her lift the Captain.

"This isn't a good idea." He grumbled softly.

"Neit