Disclaimer – Everything either does belong to Joss or it should. I’m just borrowing his shiny ‘verse for a while.

The 21st Lancers belong to the British Army so I’m borrowing them too. I hope they don’t mind.

Thanks to my regular readers for making it worthwhile to continue the story and special thanks to my Proof-Reader Landry.

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Transport Ship Serenity – Grounded on Revelation – 2520AD

Irving was waiting in the Airlock for Mal’s arrival with Jayne keeping an eye on him as he lifted weights. Serenity had its internal gravity powered down so it was only the planets own point-six gee aboard and Jayne had a lot of mass on his barbell to make up for it.

To local eyes all the Serenity Crew looked “bulky”, although the colony was taller on average again thanks to the low gravity. Jayne however looked gigantic. And it was quite unnerving to watch him bench-press what to Irving looked like a small vehicle’s worth of steel.

Mal arrived in the bay and greeted Irving who nodded in response but maintained the somewhat aloof attitude he had displayed towards the crew since the Hicks family had been barred from the dome. The ship was due to boost for space the next morning, which would be none too soon in the opinion of many amongst both parties.

‘How can I help you Mr Irving?’ Mal asked.

‘We were wondering if you planned to dine with us tonight since it is your last night here. We realise that the incident at the school has strained relations but we wish you to know we hold no ill-feelings towards you as a group.’

Jayne snorted and made a not entirely inaudible comment about the local education system and the dubious parentage of its staff. A look from Mal silenced him completely and he went back to benching weight.

‘I will discuss it with my crew but other than Shepherd Book, I don’t reckon you’ll enjoy our company,’ Mal told him.

It was obvious from the barely disguised look of relief on Irving’s face that he doubted he would enjoy their company in the slightes