Disclaimer: As ever, this universre belongs to others, and I have been visiting. Hope to do so again sometime.

This is the final part of this story. Sorry for the length and time taken. Life interferes occasionally. It has been tremendous fun, though. If any or all of it is posted elsewhere, please let me know.

*****

Zoe hit the throttle and the shuttle curved upwards at a reckless angle, barely missing the hilltop. Everyone grabbed whatever they could to keep from falling in the crowded space. Marcus and Frank, kneeling next to Mal, held on to him. Clutching Vera, Jayne made his way to the pilot’s chair.

“I reckon it’s safer for me to get us back to the ship. Go help Mal.” He looked at her with something akin to terror in his eyes.

*****

Wash hurried back up the stairs with a steaming mug. He pushed it into Inara’s cold hands as she listened intently to the voices and sounds coming through the speaker. When she ignored him, he lifted the cup up to her mouth.

“Drink.” He spoke softly.

Inara distractedly sipped the hot tea. She blinked and looked up at him. “Thanks.”

They both turned to the speaker when Jayne shouted at Zoe to go. River unfolded herself from the co-pilot’s chair and walked out without a word. Inara saw Wash was torn between the need to stay on the bridge and wanting to follow her.

“What’s going on?”

“Long story.” He waved in the direction River disappeared. “She’s reason Mal stayed on Harmony and told us to leave. Had it all set up with her and Simon. If she said anything, Simon was supposed to come tell him. And just now, she knew where to find him.”

“I don’t understand.”

“Looks like Mal was right. She is a reader.” He looked past Inara when a light on the console started flashing. “I’m supposed to be keeping an eye on her.”

“I’ll go.” The Companion handed him the mug and left.

*****

Zoe knelt at Mal’s head, fingertips pressing on his neck. “I can’t find a pulse. Is he breathing?”

Marcus, kneeling at the Captain’s