bookaddict43: (riverwriting)
bookaddict43 ([personal profile] bookaddict43) wrote2007-02-25 08:22 am
Entry tags:

Corresponding notes: Part eight: River

Title: Corresponding notes: part eight: River
Author: Bookaddict
Characters: River, Crew, OCs
Rating: PG13
Timeline: post the visit to Jayne’s home
Disclaimer: Firefly and all its characters are the property of Joss Whedon
Word count: 971
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 [livejournal.com profile] cantonheroine for the wonderful banner and icon.


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Dear River, How are you and Fifi doing back in the black I know how much you love it. I was so glad to see my boy and all of you and have you visit. I think the cats miss Fifi they look for her everywhere. Mattie is enjoying the puzzles you left they keep him busy hes much easier for your brothers care thank you both Love Ellen

Dear Ellen,

You’re correct I do love it here in the Black. The stars call to me, the expanse draws me and I feel real.

That isn’t to say that I didn’t enjoy our visit with you Ellen. It was wonderful. The experience of life in a real family home meant much to me. The welcome both you and Mattie extended to us was truly heart warming.

The cats look for Fifi? She searches for them too. I had always understood that cats and dogs were enemies; life holds some strange lessons doesn’t it? My dear beagle is doing well. I tried your suggestion for the natural training and she no longer attempts to enter the infirmary. The lion says she’s just acting like a dog and that makes me content. I have not forced her to be what she is not.

My friends on board have continued your cooking lessons. I am becoming quite accomplished! My repertoire now includes potato cakes and raisin buns. The Captain has not once criticised my dishes and Simon requested more buns. Perhaps my secondary career could be that of a chef? The possibilities are endless.

Our first job went smoothly for all except Jayne. He didn’t like to be dressed up and his comments about the rituals of a formal dinner should never be repeated. Though really Ellen I would love for some of my Mother’s friends to hear them, they would be so shocked. It makes me giggle like a girl.

Everyone is well and healthy; I believe the break was good for us. I hope the same is true for you and Mattie. I know Jayne has informed you of our freight contract and the possibilities of another visit. I look forward to seeing you two again.

Yours River

Dear River, Im glad youre still cooking its good to have survival skills I love potato cakes maybe you can make some next time youre here? Fifis a smart dog youve done well with her I think animals could teach folks a thing or two bout getting along. Of course you giggle like a girl a good girl at that we were happy to have you here visit anytime Love Ellen

Dear Ellen,

I will gladly make you some potato cakes. I would like my teacher’s opinion. I value it and her.

Recently we have begun playing games on the ship again and, in another indication that I am indeed crew, for the first time I was included.

I was on the Captain’s team and we were victorious! I like winning and crowed unbecomingly. The lion growled at me and Kaylee giggled, it was normal and girlish and fun. Fifi tried to join in but was banished to her basket when she tripped Simon and he dropped the ball. Poor beagle she is not built for such games.

Our most recent job went well again and Kaylee and I went shopping with our spoils. Boots were needed. I prefer going without, barefoot is my choice as you know, but sometimes stronger footwear is required. The new pair is stodgy and boring, strong and ugly, protection is assured. The alternate shoes I bought are pretty, have straps and are very frivolous.

It is the frivolous nature of my shoes and the fact I spent a lot of money that is disturbing Simon. He is being boobish again and lectured me. He and Kaylee argued. Is it my fault? I so want them to be happy.

Yours River

River girl arguing between couples happens it’s not your fault Simon just aint used to you growing up is all and is a man hell learn. A girl needs to have some fun and you did save some money youre doing right. Thanks to you and Kaylee for the sweets Mattie and me loved them. I value you too child Love Ellen

Dear Ellen,

I failed my flying partner and could not protect her. The bird is broken, moribund and still. I’ve temporarily lost my Serenity and addled my brains as well.

The heart of the ship still beats, but she was hurt. Kaylee’s leg is broken, the sound of it snapping is disturbing Ellen. Why should that be?

Strangely only the lion is aware of my guilt and he seeks to comfort by telling me I fly almost as well as our leaf. He told Kaylee of my feelings and she reassured me as did Zoë. Our second in command said such emotions are natural, but in my case untrue. She and the Captain are proud of my skills.

The reassurance has helped and I’m regaining some of my equilibrium. But I’m afraid this is a muddled letter Ellen and is not as clear as it could be.

My Fifi was injured too and I was so worried. My not so boobish brother repaired her ribs and she sits with Kaylee while they both recuperate. He has been forgiven by both Kaylee and myself and we are dealing better together.

The Captain and his companion are together. The dancing has stopped for the time being, I hope it will last. Some good has come of our disaster at least.

Even injured Kaylee has been busy, as have we all and the ship will fly again into the Black. We will be out very far Ellen, the stars shall restore me. Thank you for valuing me.

Love River

[identity profile] cantonheroine.livejournal.com 2007-02-25 01:43 am (UTC)(link)
Weirdly, my favourite part of this was River's use of the word 'moribund'. Made me giggle and wonder if Ellen even knows what it means.
I also like that Jayne tried to reassure her about her flying ability.
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[identity profile] bookaddict43.livejournal.com 2007-02-25 04:30 am (UTC)(link)
I typed the word - then wondered. But I figured Ellen would get the message at least even if she didn't really understand. I can just see Jayne being awkwardly helpful *grins*

[identity profile] cantonheroine.livejournal.com 2007-02-25 04:37 am (UTC)(link)
Perhaps she's got the same knowledge of obscure words that Jayne seems to have (ie. "Pretentious?"). It would be fitting if she did - he had to get it from somewhere.

[identity profile] ceslas.livejournal.com 2007-02-25 08:12 am (UTC)(link)
I am simply loving the lion... I can close my eyes and hear him telling her she done good... *Happy daydream*
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[identity profile] bookaddict43.livejournal.com 2007-02-25 11:28 am (UTC)(link)
I love the lion and it was a throwaway description in the first River chapter!! Glad I could provide a satisfying daydream.

[identity profile] guinny-hamilton.livejournal.com 2007-02-25 09:21 am (UTC)(link)
*singsongs* Awe-some!

I really can see why this would be the hardest part to write but you've done it so very well!


*cuddles*
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[identity profile] bookaddict43.livejournal.com 2007-02-25 11:29 am (UTC)(link)
Thank you *twirls* I'm glad you think I succeeded. *cuddles back*
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[identity profile] ladytalon1.livejournal.com 2007-03-03 12:23 pm (UTC)(link)
Simon requested more buns.


Okay, I know I'm always looking for Simon slash references all over the place, but this is just ridiculous. XD XD XD

Oh, sorry :x It's great that Ellen makes River feel 'valued', I imagine that does a lot for her state of mind and recovery.
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[identity profile] bookaddict43.livejournal.com 2007-03-03 01:20 pm (UTC)(link)
OMG girl! My mind went to a very bad place with that comment! *giggles* Now I'll never think of buns quite the same way again.