Thanks so much for the kind words on previous chapters! It means a lot to me to know that people are enjoying what I write....and it paid off! You guys inspired me to finish the next chapter tonight:)

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The unsteady lurching of the makeshift platform might have proved nauseating had it not been for the relief of entering fresh air and arising out of the din of the coliseum into the quiet, soothing night sky. As they were slowly winched up to the ship, Simon handed Zoe a small vial.

"Break it under his nose," said Simon, nodding at the unconscious pilot whom Zoe was once again clutching in her arms. "Ammonia, might be all it takes to bring him round."

Zoe did so, looking around as she heard a groggy voice. "Pretty shiny rescue. I'm startin' to think you got a knack for this," Mal said weakly.

Zoe smiled and took his hand, gratified that this time he was able to grip it in return. He held on tightly and rolled onto his side with a slight groan. Zoe winced in empathy. "It would help if you didn't give us quite so much practice, sir."

"You criticizing my plans?"

"Not at all, sir," Zoe replied dryly.

"Who's flyin? Is - Kaylee's flyin the ship?" Mal asked, startled.

"Yep, and scared to death she's gonna slip an' crash, earn your undying wrath. A few words might not go amiss," Zoe replied.

"Undying gratitude, more like. Speakin' of which...." Mal's voice trailed off as he searched for the right words. Zoe squeezed his hand in understanding.

Zoe went limp with relief as she felt Wash stir slightly. The cable jerked as it came to a stop, holding them inside the ship as they watched the bay doors close beneath them. They were lowered to the floor with a clanging jolt that made Zoe cringe for Mal, and she reached up to release the net. It fell down to their sides.

None of them felt much like moving at first. Mal was the first to stir, pulling himself up to his knees and crawling off the platform, crumpling face first