The Teaser Pony

By Mikelesq

Concept: The crew of Serenity provides passage for horse with an unusual talent, and a woman from Simon’s past.

Rating: R

Feedback: Please. E-mail Mikelesq@aol.com

Spoilers: For all episodes, including the three unaired episodes. Do NOT read if you’re remaining spoiler free until the DVDs. Takes place approximately three weeks after “Objects in Space,” and presumes that “OiS” was the final episode chronologically.

Legal disclaimers: "Firefly” characters and situations are owned by Joss Whedon and the producers of the show. The story is entirely fiction. Distribute if you like.

Part IV

Inara tied the belt around her robe, mentally preparing for the awkward moment she knew was approaching. On the other side of the shuttle, Hiram Crenshaw fastened the buckle of his boot, then stood.

“Mr. Crenshaw,” Inara said. “I wish to apologize for my...mistake.”

“Please,” Crenshaw replied, pulling on his leather work gloves. “The less said the better.”

“There will of course be no charge,” Inara said.

Crenshaw reached into the front pocket of his pants, and pulled out a wad of cash. He peeled off two bills and dropped them on the table.

“Half,” he said, shoving the rest of his money back into his pocket. “That seems fair, all things considered.”

“Before you leave,” Inara said, “Guild rules require that I inform you of your rights. You may report any Companion who, in your opinion, has failed to provide a good faith performance of her duties. I can provide you with the appropriate contacts. If you choose to pursue a report, your complaints will be reviewed by a board of no less than three....”

“Please,” Crenshaw interrupted. “I don’t want to report anything. As I said, the less said the better.”

“Very well,” Inara said.

“Good day, Inara,” Crenshaw mumbled, turning and quickly exiting the shuttle door. Inara waited until she heard the sound of his horse’s hoofs gallop away.

Inara walked to the couch, sat down, and droppe