Old Time Religion


“I just wish we couldda scheduled this job for some other time.” Mal fidgeted, obviously ill at ease.

“But sir,” Zoe reminded him, “you said yourself it’s usually best to fit in with local customs. Makes us less conspicuous.”

Mal looked out toward the flickering bonfire that illuminated the clearing and the joyful folks dancing ‘round it. “Yep, I did say that. But that was back before a hat made out of a tree damn near got us all killed.” He watched uncertainly as the music grew more spirited and the circle of dancers expanded, drawing closer to where he and his Second sat.

“You know, New Albion folk sure got a unique way of celebrating spring.”

Zoe thought how much Wash would have enjoyed the evening and smiled. “That they do, sir.”

“It’s a good thing participatin’ ain’t mandatory,” Mal said. “I had enough trouble with the Shepherd’s kind of religion but this…?” He shook his head.

As the circle spiraled outward, Jayne and Kaylee danced by, grinning ear to ear. Firelight glimmered on their sweat-soaked and very naked bodies. Mal grimaced. “Jayne’s enjoying this entirely too much. Damn if I ain't afraid the man’s gonna undergo a conversion!”


End