Corresponding notes: Part twenty-two: River
Title: Corresponding notes: part twenty-two: River
Author: Bookaddict
Characters: River, Crew, OCs
Rating: PG13
Timeline: Post Kaylee and Simon’s breakup
Disclaimer: Firefly and all its characters are the property of Joss Whedon
Word count: 1748
Comments: Because Ma started writing to Kaylee and River too I had to write this off-shoot from the Letters series. Previous chapters here. Thanks to cantonheroine for the banner and icon.
Dear Ellen,
My friend I love you too. I am a fortunate girl. I have my Serenity family and you and Mattie to sustain me always.
Our new mechanic didn’t last long and has left us already. I must reassure you Ellen; no-one here helped him leave. He used our ship as a transport, thinking that working his passage was better than being a stowaway. In some respects I think he was right, in others, not so much. He has left us in the lurch and as there are no mechanics to be had on this moon, Jayne has taken up his old position again.
But don’t worry my friend; much to his chagrin, we are all watching that he doesn’t overdo it. Your boy is almost back to full strength though, and soon won’t need such careful watching.
The Reavers have left a trail of devastation here Ellen. The house and nearby town were set on fire and nearly destroyed. I fear we will be here longer than first thought. None of our friends were injured fortunately and they have embarked on rebuilding with determination. My parents would be horrified that I knew such people, but I admire their spirit and help where I can.
My help is sporadic at best, because the angry voices are invading again. I spend most of my time either on Serenity or in the bordello. My wonderful ship is always a safe place to me and the memories in the bordello are, for the most part, not angry but in some way, fulfilled.
I have tried to speak to Simon, but he is avoiding serious discussion. Although I’m annoyed with him, I’m concerned for him too. I wish he considered me as an adult and sane, there are many things I wish to say to him. Is Kaylee alright Ellen? I know she was longing to see my silly brother. She is so lucky to have you there to listen and cuddle her.
The wrap you made me is delightful. It suits me I think, and you used my favourite colour! Fifi likes her coat too and parades in it proudly. I took some captures of us and the other members of the crew, so you can see how your gifts are valued.
Love River
Dear River, Im glad you and the others are looking after Jayne hes a real handful sometimes. Kaylees sad but working through things. She keeps herself busy looking after us and the kitten hes a real mischief that one. Simons confused and hurting too remember just try again when you think the times right. Just being there is a help child but if youre worried maybe you can help at the whorehouse or on Serenity? The wrap does suit you girl and Im glad Fifi likes the coat. Love Ellen
Dear Ellen,
I’m trying to be patient with Simon, but it can be taxing. He still avoids me under the pretence of his busy medical duties. He was busy Ellen, there were many injuries and sickness here, but there are fewer now, and still he doesn’t discuss things with me. But I have taken your words to heart and am not pressing him yet.
Thank you again for your counsel my friend. I have found a way to contribute to the effort after all, and I don’t have to leave my comfort areas to achieve it. There has been no school here for many years, something the people miss greatly. I’m helping to plan and set up the school. The lady who is to teach has even asked my advice about the lesson plans! I admire her dedication and have enjoyed assisting her very much.
We finish here tomorrow and our friends have prepared a farewell party for us tonight. I always find it astonishing that people who have very little seem to find many opportunities to celebrate. I’m reminded of my friend Kaylee; it is she who remembers all the special dates or institutes many of our leisure pursuits. I miss her so much and can’t wait to see her.
Inara has organised another job for us. We are to smuggle some valuable antique rugs for a friend of hers. I love antiques! They call to me and provide many hidden memories. As a child I gravitated toward such items much to my parents’ puzzlement. It’s only lately that I have realised why.
Jayne is back to full strength and can now eat what he likes. His comments regarding Simon’s recommended invalid diet were both graphic and amusing Ellen. It’s a relief to us all that his food requirements are back to normal and he will soon gain back the weight he has lost. I hope this news will ease your worries my friend?
Love River
Dear River, I know Jaynes ship family looks after him he was lucky to land that job. Kaylees trying hard shes working in Booral again and rides over every day. Her and me went to the picture house and had a real good time shes a bright spark to my day I understand why you miss her. Weve been busy making pretties and sweets so Im sending some of our tastiest. I know Matties gonna write you but I gotta say he loved the gift you sent. Look after yourself girl. Love Ellen
Dear Ellen,
The rugs were beautiful with many tales to tell. Though some were a little disturbing, I did enjoy listening and think they liked my sharing their memories.
Fifi was fascinated with the rugs too. Since they had to be transported laid flat, her attraction was to the rolling facilities offered, not their stories or beauty. In the end she was banned from the cargo bay and became quite affronted.
We delivered our cargo safely to Bellerephon and while the Captain and Jayne were doing another job, the rest of us visited the zoo. While I don’t approve of cages, the animal habitats have been faithfully reproduced to resemble their real homes and the animals themselves are pampered and happy. Since captivity is always worrying to me Ellen, I listened to them too, in order to check.
Thank you to you and Kaylee, the sweets were very tasty. I tried to ration mine, but failed, they were so delicious. Do you think my culinary skills would extend to making such things? I would so like to try and have purchased several recipe books toward this.
Isn’t it co-incidental? We visited the picture house too! I haven’t been to see a movie since I was a small child, it was wonderful. The story was so romantic Ellen; do you think real life could ever be like that?
Of course I think all those emotions could be very uncomfortable and sometimes I’m not sure I want to experience them. But then I recall the love and caring I’ve received on this boat and from you and Mattie, and I want to try after all. Isn’t that silly?
And now Simon wants to take me away from here - I can’t believe it and really can’t articulate my feelings about this. I’m disturbed, worried and unsure. I shall think instead of the wedding to come, our visit to you, seeing Kaylee and Mattie and the dark corners.
Love River
Dear River, Dont worry so child Simon loves you just talk to him bout your feelings. Youre a grown girl and can decide for youself what you want to do remember. Caring for folks and other emotions are part of life romance can be wonderful you know. Youve got good cooking skills girl you wont have no trouble making sweets. When you get here well have us a time all cooking together and you can tell us about you and Mattie. Love Ellen
Dear Ellen,
Simon does love me and I him. Part of the reason he wants a ‘more settled’ lifestyle, is his concern for my well-being. I understand that. I worry for him also and know that since the pneumonia, continued life in a spaceship may not be good for him. There seems no answer to this.
However I did persuade my dear brother to tell everyone his and Kaylee’s change in status and what he’s been considering. The Captain was both unhappy and worried; naturally he covered that with anger and sarcasm and upset everyone around him.
In addition to this tension, Zoe was injured while on the last job. The contact betrayed us, as sometimes they do, and my friends were caught in the middle of a fire-fight. For once the Captain was unhurt, as was Jayne, but Zoe was shot. Fortunately my brother and his skills were nearby, so the injury, though serious, is already on the mend.
It’s these occurrences which worry me Ellen. If Simon leaves Serenity, what will my friends do? The old scars on both the Captain’s and Jayne’s bodies are testament to the medical care, of lack of it, they received before. Neither I, nor he, like the thought of that happening again.
You gave me confidence in my cooking, so I have attempted one of the recipes in my new book. The Turkish delight, an interesting historical name, was extremely popular. I’m thinking of using it for bribery purposes and hope you enjoy it too.
I can’t wait to see you and Kaylee and look forward to both the cooking and gossiping. Do you think Mattie would like me talking about him? I don’t know the required relationship etiquette and wouldn’t like to upset him.
I have plotted a course, and we are on our way to pick up the cargo for Hawkins Moon. After that we have some small jobs, but are on our way to you. Look after yourself Ellen and hug Mattie for me. See how forward I’ve become?
Love River
Dear River, Talking and giggling bout your boyfriend is part of the fun girl Mattie wont mind. Your brothers worries are natural you know and I think I have a kinda idea that might help. I wrote to Jayne bout it tell him I said to show you. Even with the cast Kaylees walking pretty good now and aint so tired. Shes doing better otherwise too and helps in the house and works in town some and cant wait to see her girl and you all. Im glad Zoes awright and hope shes taking things easy? Remember child your wants are important too. Love Ellen
Author: Bookaddict
Characters: River, Crew, OCs
Rating: PG13
Timeline: Post Kaylee and Simon’s breakup
Disclaimer: Firefly and all its characters are the property of Joss Whedon
Word count: 1748
Comments: Because Ma started writing to Kaylee and River too I had to write this off-shoot from the Letters series. Previous chapters here. Thanks to cantonheroine for the banner and icon.
Dear Ellen,
My friend I love you too. I am a fortunate girl. I have my Serenity family and you and Mattie to sustain me always.
Our new mechanic didn’t last long and has left us already. I must reassure you Ellen; no-one here helped him leave. He used our ship as a transport, thinking that working his passage was better than being a stowaway. In some respects I think he was right, in others, not so much. He has left us in the lurch and as there are no mechanics to be had on this moon, Jayne has taken up his old position again.
But don’t worry my friend; much to his chagrin, we are all watching that he doesn’t overdo it. Your boy is almost back to full strength though, and soon won’t need such careful watching.
The Reavers have left a trail of devastation here Ellen. The house and nearby town were set on fire and nearly destroyed. I fear we will be here longer than first thought. None of our friends were injured fortunately and they have embarked on rebuilding with determination. My parents would be horrified that I knew such people, but I admire their spirit and help where I can.
My help is sporadic at best, because the angry voices are invading again. I spend most of my time either on Serenity or in the bordello. My wonderful ship is always a safe place to me and the memories in the bordello are, for the most part, not angry but in some way, fulfilled.
I have tried to speak to Simon, but he is avoiding serious discussion. Although I’m annoyed with him, I’m concerned for him too. I wish he considered me as an adult and sane, there are many things I wish to say to him. Is Kaylee alright Ellen? I know she was longing to see my silly brother. She is so lucky to have you there to listen and cuddle her.
The wrap you made me is delightful. It suits me I think, and you used my favourite colour! Fifi likes her coat too and parades in it proudly. I took some captures of us and the other members of the crew, so you can see how your gifts are valued.
Love River
Dear River, Im glad you and the others are looking after Jayne hes a real handful sometimes. Kaylees sad but working through things. She keeps herself busy looking after us and the kitten hes a real mischief that one. Simons confused and hurting too remember just try again when you think the times right. Just being there is a help child but if youre worried maybe you can help at the whorehouse or on Serenity? The wrap does suit you girl and Im glad Fifi likes the coat. Love Ellen
Dear Ellen,
I’m trying to be patient with Simon, but it can be taxing. He still avoids me under the pretence of his busy medical duties. He was busy Ellen, there were many injuries and sickness here, but there are fewer now, and still he doesn’t discuss things with me. But I have taken your words to heart and am not pressing him yet.
Thank you again for your counsel my friend. I have found a way to contribute to the effort after all, and I don’t have to leave my comfort areas to achieve it. There has been no school here for many years, something the people miss greatly. I’m helping to plan and set up the school. The lady who is to teach has even asked my advice about the lesson plans! I admire her dedication and have enjoyed assisting her very much.
We finish here tomorrow and our friends have prepared a farewell party for us tonight. I always find it astonishing that people who have very little seem to find many opportunities to celebrate. I’m reminded of my friend Kaylee; it is she who remembers all the special dates or institutes many of our leisure pursuits. I miss her so much and can’t wait to see her.
Inara has organised another job for us. We are to smuggle some valuable antique rugs for a friend of hers. I love antiques! They call to me and provide many hidden memories. As a child I gravitated toward such items much to my parents’ puzzlement. It’s only lately that I have realised why.
Jayne is back to full strength and can now eat what he likes. His comments regarding Simon’s recommended invalid diet were both graphic and amusing Ellen. It’s a relief to us all that his food requirements are back to normal and he will soon gain back the weight he has lost. I hope this news will ease your worries my friend?
Love River
Dear River, I know Jaynes ship family looks after him he was lucky to land that job. Kaylees trying hard shes working in Booral again and rides over every day. Her and me went to the picture house and had a real good time shes a bright spark to my day I understand why you miss her. Weve been busy making pretties and sweets so Im sending some of our tastiest. I know Matties gonna write you but I gotta say he loved the gift you sent. Look after yourself girl. Love Ellen
Dear Ellen,
The rugs were beautiful with many tales to tell. Though some were a little disturbing, I did enjoy listening and think they liked my sharing their memories.
Fifi was fascinated with the rugs too. Since they had to be transported laid flat, her attraction was to the rolling facilities offered, not their stories or beauty. In the end she was banned from the cargo bay and became quite affronted.
We delivered our cargo safely to Bellerephon and while the Captain and Jayne were doing another job, the rest of us visited the zoo. While I don’t approve of cages, the animal habitats have been faithfully reproduced to resemble their real homes and the animals themselves are pampered and happy. Since captivity is always worrying to me Ellen, I listened to them too, in order to check.
Thank you to you and Kaylee, the sweets were very tasty. I tried to ration mine, but failed, they were so delicious. Do you think my culinary skills would extend to making such things? I would so like to try and have purchased several recipe books toward this.
Isn’t it co-incidental? We visited the picture house too! I haven’t been to see a movie since I was a small child, it was wonderful. The story was so romantic Ellen; do you think real life could ever be like that?
Of course I think all those emotions could be very uncomfortable and sometimes I’m not sure I want to experience them. But then I recall the love and caring I’ve received on this boat and from you and Mattie, and I want to try after all. Isn’t that silly?
And now Simon wants to take me away from here - I can’t believe it and really can’t articulate my feelings about this. I’m disturbed, worried and unsure. I shall think instead of the wedding to come, our visit to you, seeing Kaylee and Mattie and the dark corners.
Love River
Dear River, Dont worry so child Simon loves you just talk to him bout your feelings. Youre a grown girl and can decide for youself what you want to do remember. Caring for folks and other emotions are part of life romance can be wonderful you know. Youve got good cooking skills girl you wont have no trouble making sweets. When you get here well have us a time all cooking together and you can tell us about you and Mattie. Love Ellen
Dear Ellen,
Simon does love me and I him. Part of the reason he wants a ‘more settled’ lifestyle, is his concern for my well-being. I understand that. I worry for him also and know that since the pneumonia, continued life in a spaceship may not be good for him. There seems no answer to this.
However I did persuade my dear brother to tell everyone his and Kaylee’s change in status and what he’s been considering. The Captain was both unhappy and worried; naturally he covered that with anger and sarcasm and upset everyone around him.
In addition to this tension, Zoe was injured while on the last job. The contact betrayed us, as sometimes they do, and my friends were caught in the middle of a fire-fight. For once the Captain was unhurt, as was Jayne, but Zoe was shot. Fortunately my brother and his skills were nearby, so the injury, though serious, is already on the mend.
It’s these occurrences which worry me Ellen. If Simon leaves Serenity, what will my friends do? The old scars on both the Captain’s and Jayne’s bodies are testament to the medical care, of lack of it, they received before. Neither I, nor he, like the thought of that happening again.
You gave me confidence in my cooking, so I have attempted one of the recipes in my new book. The Turkish delight, an interesting historical name, was extremely popular. I’m thinking of using it for bribery purposes and hope you enjoy it too.
I can’t wait to see you and Kaylee and look forward to both the cooking and gossiping. Do you think Mattie would like me talking about him? I don’t know the required relationship etiquette and wouldn’t like to upset him.
I have plotted a course, and we are on our way to pick up the cargo for Hawkins Moon. After that we have some small jobs, but are on our way to you. Look after yourself Ellen and hug Mattie for me. See how forward I’ve become?
Love River
Dear River, Talking and giggling bout your boyfriend is part of the fun girl Mattie wont mind. Your brothers worries are natural you know and I think I have a kinda idea that might help. I wrote to Jayne bout it tell him I said to show you. Even with the cast Kaylees walking pretty good now and aint so tired. Shes doing better otherwise too and helps in the house and works in town some and cant wait to see her girl and you all. Im glad Zoes awright and hope shes taking things easy? Remember child your wants are important too. Love Ellen