“Gorram it, who turned on the lights?” Jayne Cobb grimaced against the brightness, then touched a large hand to the bandage taped high on his forehead.

“I think they call it the sun, Jayne, you know that giant glowing orb in the sky that sheds light on all life?” Wash smirked over at Jayne, curled up into a ball in the corner. The mercenary just growled and pulled his jacket over his head. Next to Wash another body stirred and Simon peeked out from beneath a rough wool blanket.

“Wash tone down your voice a bit if you would, please.”

“But it’s morning. Wake up sunshine.”

“Wash, I swear to hell if you don’t shut your trap, I’ll shut it for you.” Mal growled from across the small room. “How is it you ain't got a hangover?”

“I think I’m still drunk actually.” Wash replied cheerily. There was a protesting growl from the other three men, and a possible grumbling about murder from under the olive drab jacket in the corner.

“What exactly happened last night?" Simon asked, pushing himself up to sit. He leaned back against the wall, pressed his hand to his face, and pushed back his mess of brown hair.

“I’m a little fuzzy on the details my own self.” Mal said, finally appearing from beneath his long brown coat.

“I’m fuzzy on everything…” Wash interrupted. Mal gave him a look and continued.

“But, I do seem to remember going into the bar with Wash.”

~

“Why exactly are we here again?” Wash asked, looking around the large oddly furnished bar with a curious sort of mocking.

“I told you, we’re putting in an appearance.”

“But, see, that’s exactly the part I’m not quite understanding. An appearance for what?”

“These people feel better about hiring folk for a job, iffen they seen their face around before. So, we’ll be spending a few days, just hangin’ around, and bein’ friendly like.”

“Okay, and why exactly did you need me for this… appearance?”

“You asked for some leave.”

“Technically it’s not leave if you have to go where the Captain tells you, and do what the Captain tells