*Disclaimer: All hail Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy. Simple non-profit fan fun. I own nothing (and have no money) please don’t sue.*

This was my first fanfic and I loved every second of writing it. I apologize for taking so long getting the last ACT posted, but I wanted to make it as close to a perfect ending as I could. I tried to leave some things to the imagination…some unanswered questions. Hope it fulfills the promise of the rest of the story.

NOTE: This section contains adult content.

SHADOWS PUPPETS - ACT VII

By Shayz

FADE IN:

INT. AMGINE - CORRIDOR - FLASHBACK

Jess emerges from a sliding door, stands military straight, head high, hands behind her back as the door closes behind her…cutting off a violent SCREAM.

Moving her eyes only, she scans the area. No one around.

Lightning quick her left fist lashes out and hits a glass panel on the left wall, smashing the panel and depressing the red ball/button inside.

An ALARM blares and RED EMERGENCY LIGHTS flash.

Jess looks down at her hand, her knuckles are bloody. No pain registers on her face. She stares at her fist, transfixed: (why did she do that?)

The cut knuckles ooze dark blood.

INT. SERENITY - INFIRMARY - BLOOD SLIDE

Red cells on the screen.

INT. SERENITY - INFIRMARY - SIMON

Pulling away. Simon’s eyes focus’ on the blood cells, maneuvering the computer to zoom in.

Behind him, River leans against the door, but doesn’t come inside.

RIVER: You’re in the middle.

SIMON (turns; startled): Too zai zi! River. Yes…I’m busy. Do you need something?

RIVER: Years before us…she came. Big sister.

SIMON: She’s not related to us.

RIVER: Not by blood. Circumstance. Family…like Kaylee and Wash.

SIMON (returns attention to screen): No.

River considers Simon for a beat, then:

RIVER: It’s hard for you.

Simon’s concern--and possible annoyance--is evident as he looks over his shoulder at her.

RIVER (cont.): Knowing they knew.

SIMON: Don’t believe her, River. Sh