At the morning meal, Mal issues some unusual orders: “I want ya’ll to pack up anything that might take to rollin’ around. Kaylee’s sure the controls will work fine, and what from we’ve been able to test, it seems she’s right. But once we hit atmo, we could have a whole peck of ugly if there’s anything hangin’ loose outside. So everybody lock up their belongings, then see what you can do about cargo.”

Zoë mutters; “Checking cargo shouldn’t take long – ain’t nothin’ rattlin’ around down there but a few echos and a whole big bunch o’ empty.” Then after seeing Mal’s glare, she announces in a much louder tone; “Yes Sir! I‘ll see to it. It’ll be done, in lots of time for landing.”

Simon adds, much more quietly; “Wherever that may be.”

As Serenity spirals down, the crew packs everything, and is just about finished when the ship comes to a sudden halt. Sure something serious has happened, they all race to the bridge… To find Mal arguing with a picture of a very officious Eavesdown Dock Controller.

“What d’you mean, there’s no spare Docks for landing? I can see five empty pads from right up here!”

A small voice comes up from the panel; “I assure you Captain, I have checked with all of the Dock owners, and every one assures me that their Docks are either full or reserved, and will continue to be so for the foreseeable future.”

River tugs on Mal’s sleeve; “Mal, ask about Eavesdown Dock 17. He’s holding something back.”

Mal turns back to the picture; “Did you talk to the owners of Pad 17? I think they’re willing to let us land. Maybe I should call them personal?”

The controller snorts; “Go ahead, if you can find them.”

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

River looks up suddenly; “That’s it! Bankruptcy! There’s no one to ask, and they cannot even afford keep security guards at the site!”

Now the light comes on for Mal! With an insincere smile, he looks back at the picture and says; “Thank you for all your help sir. Now, we’ve done our own checking, and we’re sure no one wi