Zoe punched up the local news on the cortex to help curb her restless wandering of the ship. A chill ran down her spine a few minutes later when the announcer covering the impending gladiatorial games of the night began "This trio actually had the nerve to attempt a multi-million-credit robbery - on the very night of the games. "

The camera switched to a shot of a handcuffed Jayne, kicking viciously at the cameraman despite the efforts of the two men restraining him. In the background of the shot she saw Wash and Mal, standing motionless against a green-painted wall, their hands cuffed uncomfortably above their heads.

"Judge Phu has agreed to hear their case on an expedited basis within the hour, so chances are very good these three will be making an appearance on the schedule tonight," said the announcer cheerfully.

A roaring tiger appeared on the screen, and Zoe switched it off. She pushed the com button. "Everyone to the bridge, now. "

Without waiting for them to arrive, she sent a wave to Inara, who answered looking considerably annoyed, a silk robe hastily donned. "Now is not really the time," she said.

"Inara, you're gonna want to break it off and get back to the ship, ma shong."

"I am with a client. I'll be along as I see fit." Inara was still clearly irritated with the captain's imperious manner at the breakfast table.

"Suit yourself. Those of us who don't want to watch the captain eaten alive by a large, carnivorous feline on the evening news will be gathering on the bridge," said Zoe. She saw by the look of shock on Inara's face that she'd gotten her point across, and switched off the feed.

_____________________________________________________________________

"We do have some explosives left over from the Vesselside job," said Zoe. "Blow a hole in the ceiling, fly over in Serenity, and pick them up from the air."

"But if we blow a hole in the roof, that debris is going to fall straight down into the arena. Not much of a rescue if we