Inara had chosen "Tuscan Villa" from the list of themes in Jerrode's sitting parlor, but even the endless, discreetly animated vista of rolling hills and vineyards bathed in golden light that now decorated two of the room's walls could not relax her. When the door swung open behind her, she jumped. She felt a moment's relief -- until she turned, and saw that the three people entering the room were Jerrode and two strangers, and that Zoe and Simon were not with them.

Jerrode shook his head in mute apology. "They weren't there," he said. "When my men arrived, your friends were gone."

Inara's throat closed up. She swallowed, forcing her voice past the blockage. "Did someone else get to them first?"

"I don't know, but I will find out," Jerrode said. He walked across the room and took her hands in his, while the two men with him took up station on either side of the door. "I have the resources to turn this station inside out. And I will do so, for you. I will find your friends."

"Thank you," Inara said, although she wouldn't believe them found until they were here with her, and safe.

"In the meantime, be sure that you don't leave my home without bodyguards," Jerrode instructed, grim-faced.

Inara nodded acquiescence. "I don't know how I can ever repay your kindness."

He dismissed the offer with a gesture. "It's not too much kindness for such an old, dear friend," he said, and kissed her cheek lightly. He glanced at the walls, and changed the subject. "Tuscan Villa. I like this theme; it's a personal favorite. Do you see the workers harvesting grapes out there in the west, just beyond that rise? Occasionally you can glimpse them. I think we should dine in here." He moved away, to the comm on a nearby side table, and spoke briefly with his kitchen staff. Inara really wasn't all that hungry, but she smiled as Jerrode led her to the room's small table, and accepted the wine that he served her when it arrived. She stared westward at the walls, catching a glimpse of the har