TITLE: "CRADLE TO GRAVE"

AUTHOR: Alison M. DOBELL

FANDOM: "FIREFLY"

PAIRING: No specific pairing.

RATING: PG-13.

STATUS: SEQUEL to "REVELATIONS AND SACRIFICES"

ARCHIVE: Yes. Just let me know where.

FEEDBACK: Welcomed.

EMAIL: AlisonMDobell@aol.com

WEBSITE: http://carlajane.50megs.com/Ali00.html

SUMMARY: "Everyone makes mistakes. Thomas comes face

to face with one of his. With a rescue attempt under way more

complications arise."

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.

"CRADLE TO GRAVE"

A "Firefly" story

Written by Alison M. DOBELL

* * * * *

Counsellor Michael Tollan was a calm one, Mal had to give him that. Without so much as a flinch or flicker of intemperance he turned to Serenity's Captain. "I would be obliged if you would let Thomas know we have company and who it is."

Mal frowned but something in Tollan's look cut through any question forming in his mind. He nodded, the request as good as carried out. As soon as Mal was off the bridge, Tollan looked at Rafe Connor, the man as tense as it was possible to be without something snapping.

"I think it would be best if you remained out of sight, *qu*? At least until we know what this is about."

The rancher nodded and stepped out of sight of the com. As soon as he had done so Tollan opened the com channel. "This is Counsellor Michael Tollan, how may I assist you?"

The big blustering man that appeared on the screen looked momentarily nonplussed then reiterated his question. "This is Commandant Ferris of the Alliance Cruiser Reknown. Identify yourself, your vessel and your Captain."

A slow uneven stumbling sound impinged on the background but was drowned out by Tollan's reply.

"I am Counsellor Michael Tollan. This is the Crazy Goose and her Captain is Thomas Charles McCardy."

"What are you doing h