TITLE: "A SINGLE STEP"

AUTHOR: Alison M. DOBELL

FANDOM: "FIREFLY"

PAIRING: No specific pairing.

RATING: PG-13.

STATUS: New. SEQUEL to "DAWN"

ARCHIVE: Yes. Just let me know where.

FEEDBACK: Welcomed.

EMAIL: AlisonMDobell@aol.com

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

SUMMARY: "Serenity lands on Venture. The Sheriff and his

Deputy leave to look for the missing children. River urges

the crew to hurry to the outpost because time is running out."

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.

"A SINGLE STEP"

A "Firefly" story

Written by Alison M. DOBELL

* * * * *

The armada of yachts were only hours away. The *laoban* rested his right hand on the pearl handle of his gun. It eased him some and settled things a mite in his overcrowded mind. His grey eyes narrowed, becoming dark and dispiteous. Annoyed as *diyu* at having to change the routine of his operation. Once he had collected what was his he intended to pay off a few outstanding debts - with interest.

Meanwhile, unbeknownst to him, another ship was already landing. Wash following the landing instructions to the letter not daring to raise any suspicions from the port authority. Zoe was so uptight the pilot could not help but be on edge too. Simon was sitting on the floor of the bridge cradling his sister. River had her eyes open but was staring straight ahead. Wash had the creepy feeling that she saw more than the rest of them put together and wondered why that was in no wise comforting. As soon as they landed Zoe touched his shoulder and left to see the Sheriff and Deputy off the ship. Jayne was scowling at them from the cargo bay, Vera cradled idly in his hands. There was a measuring look in his eyes as he watched the two lawmen approach the bay door, Zoe not more than a step behind them now. At the door the Sheriff turned to face t