Blue Sun Room FICTION - DRAMA
BOOK OF DAYS SERIES: #38. "Shattered - Chapter 3/4"
Thursday, May 4, 2006
Simon confronts River. Inara makes a decision she feels is best for Kaylee. River finds solace in Jayne's arms. Simon/Kaylee. Mal/Inara. 38th story in a series.
CATEGORY: FICTION TIMES READ: 3952 RATING: 9.0 (PG) SERIES: FIREFLY
PLEASE read the warning in chapter 1 of this story.
I do appreciate constructive criticism so if you have some, by all means, leave a review and let me know what you did or did not like, or even if there is something that you would like to see happen.
There are really only two stories left so the end is in sight!
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Chapter 3
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Simon didn’t need to wander aimlessly around the ship this time. He knew right where he was going as he stalked down the crew bunk hallway and pressed the mechanism to open the door to his sister’s bunk. Without announcing himself, he climbed quickly down the ladder. Somehow, he knew she would be waiting for him. He wasn’t surprised to see the light already on and River sitting cross-legged on her bed.
Simon struggled to keep his voice calm, steady, even though he was angrier than he had ever been in his life. If he noticed her tear-streaked face, he gave no indication. “You knew.” It wasn’t a question.
River didn’t even try to deny it. She simply nodded.
Even though he knew she would answer in the affirmative, he was still angrier than he could put into words by her admission. “Why didn’t you tell me?” he asked through gritted teeth.
“Couldn’t have stopped it.”
What was left of Simon’s temper finally snapped at that seemingly uncaring response. He needed to lash out. He needed to hurt something. “You didn’t give me a chance!”
“Couldn’t –“
“Zao gao, River! Stop!” Simon clenched his fists so tight they began to hurt. “Tell me the real reason!”
River shook her head, tears still sliding down her cheeks.
Simon felt no need to comfort his sister.
She knew he wouldn’t.
“Why?” Simon’s whole body trembled with rage. Tears stung his eyes as he regarded his sister with barely contained contempt. He took a step forward, intent on shaking the answer out of her.
Suddenly, River stood on her bed and screeched at him. “Because if you knew, it would have happened anyway and it would have been much, much worse!”
The
Comments
ANONYMOUS
Thursday, 04 May 2006 21:39
I'm totally diggin' the story. Poor River, needs someone strong, I thought it was funny how Jayne told her to get off him. Heh. Can't wait for the final part.
Thursday, 04 May 2006 21:46
Leiasky:
Amazing, as always. One thing I'm curious about - and I'd like your take on it, because Joss &Co were never terribly specific.
River - is she able to predict the future? Or just read things from people's mind's: their past and their intentions.
I can't remember anything in the show or film that indicated River could forsee the future - I guess that leaves it way open to interpretation. For example: she didn't "forsee" Wash's death or know that Simon would be shot.
So what is your interpretation? (Anyone else can weigh in on this, too.) Are River's powers growing?
- Tresta (basking in the talent of Leiasky - a silee shipper. Yay!)
Amazing, as always. One thing I'm curious about - and I'd like your take on it, because Joss &Co were never terribly specific.
River - is she able to predict the future? Or just read things from people's mind's: their past and their intentions.
I can't remember anything in the show or film that indicated River could forsee the future - I guess that leaves it way open to interpretation. For example: she didn't "forsee" Wash's death or know that Simon would be shot.
So what is your interpretation? (Anyone else can weigh in on this, too.) Are River's powers growing?
- Tresta (basking in the talent of Leiasky - a silee shipper. Yay!)
ANONYMOUS
Thursday, 04 May 2006 22:12
This story has me captivated. You're handling it really well, that takes some skill.
The characters still sound like themselves and i can see our BDH's in my head when i'm reading.
Please give us more. Is the baby really not Simon's, if not why has Mal not realised that Inara's might not be his? I'd like Niska to die slowly and in lots of pain ......Please.
Keep writing, you're a wonder.
The characters still sound like themselves and i can see our BDH's in my head when i'm reading.
Please give us more. Is the baby really not Simon's, if not why has Mal not realised that Inara's might not be his? I'd like Niska to die slowly and in lots of pain ......Please.
Keep writing, you're a wonder.
ANONYMOUS
Thursday, 04 May 2006 22:19
Yes boys (and Zoë), go and kill!
And *wants next chapter already*
usual comment: great chapter, wonderful writing, I love it!
CCke
And *wants next chapter already*
usual comment: great chapter, wonderful writing, I love it!
CCke
Thursday, 04 May 2006 22:20
>Is the baby really not Simon's?
You won't know until the end of the series.
>if not why has Mal not realised that Inara's might not be his?
That is the question Mal asks in the next chapter.
>is River able to predict the future?
I'm trying to keep it somewhat ambiguous. I wanted to establish that she could see the outcome of some events or feel what was going to happen but not others - which is why she doesn't know the paternity of the babies. She could only meddle in her own small way and hope . . .
Ahh, MechanicGirlKaylee, glad to see you're still reading. I thought the topic had scared you off!
You won't know until the end of the series.
>if not why has Mal not realised that Inara's might not be his?
That is the question Mal asks in the next chapter.
>is River able to predict the future?
I'm trying to keep it somewhat ambiguous. I wanted to establish that she could see the outcome of some events or feel what was going to happen but not others - which is why she doesn't know the paternity of the babies. She could only meddle in her own small way and hope . . .
Ahh, MechanicGirlKaylee, glad to see you're still reading. I thought the topic had scared you off!
ANONYMOUS
Thursday, 04 May 2006 22:37
Does Kaylee and Inara really leave? How are they going to determine who the fathers of their babies? Are they going to go to a clinic (if they do leave the ship) to do one of those test that can get some DNA from the baby to determine who the father's are before the births?
I can't wait update it soon.
I can't wait update it soon.
Friday, 05 May 2006 00:55
Wow, this is just so painfully brilliant. My heart goes out to poor Kaylee and Inara but also Simon and Mal. I also feel annoyed at Inara thinking she is the only one who knows what to do about Kaylee (and herself). Really not happy with her sticking a spoke in the works and stopping Simon from being able to comfort his wife. Whether she knows best or not she could at least try to be less abrasive about it. Now the men are all fired up and like to throw caution to the wind in their efforts to not only skin Badger alive but get back at Niska. Hmm, "whosoever divides his own house shall inherit the wind". Can't wait to see what happens next. Ali D :~)
You can't take the sky from me
You can't take the sky from me
ANONYMOUS
Friday, 05 May 2006 01:00
In all of the horrible trauma that these women have gone through, I find it slightly appalling that Inara would think it best for her friend to "erase" her memory of her rape as I think it's made this situation far far worse. Wouldn't that be, in essence a type of violation in itself? Maybe it would be good for Kaylee to confront Inara on this issue. And there is still a chance that Simon is the father as they did have sex just before Kaylee was attacked. I'm not that sure about Inara's baby, however.
Friday, 05 May 2006 01:34
>Does Kaylee and Inara really leave?
Yes.
>How are they going to determine who the fathers of their babies?
That is fairly easy to determine once they reach a facility capable of safely performing the tests.
> I find it slightly appalling that Inara would think it best for her friend to "erase" her memory of her rape as I think it's made this situation far far worse.
Well, the picture I'm attempting to paint here is that no one is perfect. One might do something in an effort to help and only make matters worse.
Nothing is perfect in the real world, and nothing is perfect in the Firefly 'verse. As much as some only want to think (or read) that every character is perfect and all will be fluffy happy in the end, it does not always turn out that way.
People make mistakes, and they have to live with those mistakes.
Yes.
>How are they going to determine who the fathers of their babies?
That is fairly easy to determine once they reach a facility capable of safely performing the tests.
> I find it slightly appalling that Inara would think it best for her friend to "erase" her memory of her rape as I think it's made this situation far far worse.
Well, the picture I'm attempting to paint here is that no one is perfect. One might do something in an effort to help and only make matters worse.
Nothing is perfect in the real world, and nothing is perfect in the Firefly 'verse. As much as some only want to think (or read) that every character is perfect and all will be fluffy happy in the end, it does not always turn out that way.
People make mistakes, and they have to live with those mistakes.
Friday, 05 May 2006 01:50
Wow, this chapter may have been my favorite so far. Mal telling Inara she wasn't leaving with his kid--so realistic in that it's exactly the sort of quick, angry response he'd have to the situation. I also loved vengeful, raging Simon and the little bit of River/Jayne comfort at the end. Beautiful chapter, can't wait to go after Niska!
~Kaynara
~Kaynara
SCIFICHICA
Friday, 05 May 2006 02:19
Wow, can you evoke an emotional response! I've been reading this story since the beginning and it always leaves me in anticipation. But this broke my heart. You ruined my evening!!Damn... YOU'RE GOOD.
Does Kaylee ever make Inara answer for wiping her memory? As was pointed out in another Joss show that's just another form of rape. And knowing THAT, the scene where they all go shopping a few posts back really disturbed me. Inara's reaction to "it's good kaylee understands she has to stick with me, unified front, yada yada." It was probably meant as just a girl power, chicks stick together thing and I'm reading too much into it. But when you read that knowing Inara robbed Kaylee of six months she could have had to deal and now she relived it with Simon adding a whole new complex; Inara came off very manipulative. Like she wanted to make sure Kaylee always followed her lead first. It seemed like an establishing shot to show how easily Inara could lead Kaylee even over her own husband. It made Inara seem like she was setting up this dynamic in case of this eventuality and it made Kaylee's marriage seem weak. And everything that's followed since that last happy moment I just read like Inara's this manipulative person. I've lost my sympathy for her. But again, I could be just reading too much into something that was essentially a filler scene. I do that when emotional.
Either way, you've had me biting my nails for updates for days!!! Keep up the excellent writing. This is truly an accomplishment.
Does Kaylee ever make Inara answer for wiping her memory? As was pointed out in another Joss show that's just another form of rape. And knowing THAT, the scene where they all go shopping a few posts back really disturbed me. Inara's reaction to "it's good kaylee understands she has to stick with me, unified front, yada yada." It was probably meant as just a girl power, chicks stick together thing and I'm reading too much into it. But when you read that knowing Inara robbed Kaylee of six months she could have had to deal and now she relived it with Simon adding a whole new complex; Inara came off very manipulative. Like she wanted to make sure Kaylee always followed her lead first. It seemed like an establishing shot to show how easily Inara could lead Kaylee even over her own husband. It made Inara seem like she was setting up this dynamic in case of this eventuality and it made Kaylee's marriage seem weak. And everything that's followed since that last happy moment I just read like Inara's this manipulative person. I've lost my sympathy for her. But again, I could be just reading too much into something that was essentially a filler scene. I do that when emotional.
Either way, you've had me biting my nails for updates for days!!! Keep up the excellent writing. This is truly an accomplishment.
Friday, 05 May 2006 02:29
Well, I do hate to ruin someone's day. My apologies. The angst will end soon! But, you might be excited to know I'm currently writing a very happy (well not from Niska's pov) scene involving a very pissed off Simon. Friend who just read it told me she loved me, so I guess its fairly effective:)
But going back to your review, yeah, you're reading too much into it. My response to an earlier reviewer kinda answers this too but I'll add just a bit more. Inara isn't trying to be manipulative. She truly thought she was doing the right thing. She made a mistake. A mistake she is now having to deal with now that she realized she has caused the people that she loves so much pain.
But going back to your review, yeah, you're reading too much into it. My response to an earlier reviewer kinda answers this too but I'll add just a bit more. Inara isn't trying to be manipulative. She truly thought she was doing the right thing. She made a mistake. A mistake she is now having to deal with now that she realized she has caused the people that she loves so much pain.
ANONYMOUS
Friday, 05 May 2006 02:32
I have to agree. Inara seems to be handling things rather poorly. Granted, she's not at her most logical right now, but she seems hell-bent on making sure Simon - and to a lesser extent, Mal - stays WAY out of the picture.
Besides the fact that both of the men have a legitimate claim and right to be present for these decisions, Simon is also the only medical professional available at the moment. Husband or not, we've all seen him stay objective when working on his sister in a medical capacity; I have no doubt he could do the same with Inara and Kaylee.
Simon's sister knew something and didn't speak up, Simon is the only doctor, Mal is the only one capable of protecting the crew further (with Jayne and Zoe, of course, but he's the leader), Inara erasing memories and then blaming Simon to cover her guilt. The guys are a great resource, and Inara is going a long way to avoid using them, especially when they've offered and her own judgement is questionable.
Sorry if this got a little emotional, but in my head I've always identified with Simon and Mal the most of all the boys, and I'm feeling a lot of sympathy for them.
ManicGiraffe
Besides the fact that both of the men have a legitimate claim and right to be present for these decisions, Simon is also the only medical professional available at the moment. Husband or not, we've all seen him stay objective when working on his sister in a medical capacity; I have no doubt he could do the same with Inara and Kaylee.
Simon's sister knew something and didn't speak up, Simon is the only doctor, Mal is the only one capable of protecting the crew further (with Jayne and Zoe, of course, but he's the leader), Inara erasing memories and then blaming Simon to cover her guilt. The guys are a great resource, and Inara is going a long way to avoid using them, especially when they've offered and her own judgement is questionable.
Sorry if this got a little emotional, but in my head I've always identified with Simon and Mal the most of all the boys, and I'm feeling a lot of sympathy for them.
ManicGiraffe
Friday, 05 May 2006 02:55
Well, the next chapter might change your mind about Inara - or maybe not, maybe its too late to redeem her in your eyes :)
ANONYMOUS
Friday, 05 May 2006 03:12
I don't know why people aren't giving this a chance to develop. I think it was very well done, very emotional (I got tears happenin' here!) and very much like what Inara might react like. Sure, she may not be the most rational, she may be bent on getting Mal and Simon out of the picture, but I think that could be her way of dealing with it for herself. I've always thought her to be fiercely independent and in this situation, where perhaps she feels as though independence is what could get her through this (independence from the men, that is) she's blinded by her pain and is unconsciously forcing the same kind of thing on Kaylee.
And when did it become wiping her memory? The way I understood it, Inara simply found out what had truly transpired, and hadn't told Kaylee afterward once the girl was fully lucid again. That's not wiping her memory, that's doing what she thinks is right to help her friend and hoping for the best. Trained companion or not, she's still only human, guys.
I think this chapter is AMAZING, in any case. Keep it up! I can't wait to read the next!
~Jules~
And when did it become wiping her memory? The way I understood it, Inara simply found out what had truly transpired, and hadn't told Kaylee afterward once the girl was fully lucid again. That's not wiping her memory, that's doing what she thinks is right to help her friend and hoping for the best. Trained companion or not, she's still only human, guys.
I think this chapter is AMAZING, in any case. Keep it up! I can't wait to read the next!
~Jules~
Friday, 05 May 2006 03:44
As much as this story is ripping me apart, that is a true testament to your writing and your ability to imbue these characters with grace, dignity and realism.
I loved the scene with Simon and Mal. I can totally see Simon at his wit's end and I can see Mal trying to hold him together, even though he's on a very short string himself.
I see from other's comments that Inara is really getting the short end of the stick. I too have questioned her actions and I don't think she did the right thing, but that's not important. What's important is why should did it, her intentions, and while we (the reader) may not like them, they did come from a pure and loving place. It's the same response we have when anyone we love thinks they know us well enough to make a decision for us. We resent the fact that they made the decision and wish that we had been given the choice. I think that's where Kaylee will come down in this whole thing. Being a kind-hearted person, I think she may be able to rationally figure out that Inara was acting out of love for her, but everything else surrounding this, including her lies, will force Kaylee to have it out with her friend and the friendship may be irreparable.
Leiasky, I don't envy you the difficulty of the subject matter (although you did think it up), but I do envy the unbelievable reactions and emotions you've managed to evoke and the masterful way you keep building the story. I aspire to be you!
I loved the scene with Simon and Mal. I can totally see Simon at his wit's end and I can see Mal trying to hold him together, even though he's on a very short string himself.
I see from other's comments that Inara is really getting the short end of the stick. I too have questioned her actions and I don't think she did the right thing, but that's not important. What's important is why should did it, her intentions, and while we (the reader) may not like them, they did come from a pure and loving place. It's the same response we have when anyone we love thinks they know us well enough to make a decision for us. We resent the fact that they made the decision and wish that we had been given the choice. I think that's where Kaylee will come down in this whole thing. Being a kind-hearted person, I think she may be able to rationally figure out that Inara was acting out of love for her, but everything else surrounding this, including her lies, will force Kaylee to have it out with her friend and the friendship may be irreparable.
Leiasky, I don't envy you the difficulty of the subject matter (although you did think it up), but I do envy the unbelievable reactions and emotions you've managed to evoke and the masterful way you keep building the story. I aspire to be you!
Friday, 05 May 2006 03:48
I really want to see what happens. Don't get me wrong, I love it (the fact that I got so worked up is actually a good sign; it means it effected me).
Seriously, you made me want to reach into the screen (not recommended on an LCD, by the way) and strangle Niska myself. I honestly can't think of a punishment fit for the man. I hope it's painful and involes a significant amount of torture before Simon kills him.
I even get that Inara made a mistake (although as a trained Companion, it seemed an odd one). It just looked like she was continuing to compound that mistake and I guess I thought she must have a reason for it. If not, my apologies, and I'll go back to feeling the angst and hoping for a bloody Niska and happy paternity results.
Seriously, you made me want to reach into the screen (not recommended on an LCD, by the way) and strangle Niska myself. I honestly can't think of a punishment fit for the man. I hope it's painful and involes a significant amount of torture before Simon kills him.
I even get that Inara made a mistake (although as a trained Companion, it seemed an odd one). It just looked like she was continuing to compound that mistake and I guess I thought she must have a reason for it. If not, my apologies, and I'll go back to feeling the angst and hoping for a bloody Niska and happy paternity results.
Friday, 05 May 2006 05:49
What an amazing chapter! SO many emotions have been stirred up! I feel for Inara because she has put herself in a horrible position. She has not only experienced this violation once but twice in her life. It affects every person that experiences it so differently that sometimes rational decisions get thrown out the window. She acted in her friend's best interest in her own mind, but we all know the saying, the road to hell is paved with good intentions. Simon's anger was gut wrenching, he's lost in a situation he really has no idea how to contend with. His anger at River was so upsetting, but he lashed out at the easiest target. Just tragic, sad, and so very Firefly in that no one in this situation is perfect! Awesome job Leiasky and I can't wait to read your next post!
Friday, 05 May 2006 13:20
I know that I'm a mite late, but I could only get on the web now. So, I'll only say this once: YOU ARE EVIL!!!!!!!!!! This is mercilous, heartwrenching, and downright perfect (I love it) That said... post faster, please. I'm dyin' here!!!!
-Danny
-Danny
SCIFICHICA
Friday, 05 May 2006 14:47
Don't get me wrong either. i absolutely love this story. And as much as I disagree with Inara, I love this element of the story. It has me totally enthralled watching her go from bad to worse. And I have no problem believing that her actions toward kaylee are out of love but I just want to see her answer for them. To admit that while she had experience in dealing with this situation that might actually be the very thing blinding her judgment. And I do believe she's ultimately a good character but I think she's inadvertently punishing simon for what happened to her by keeping Kaylee from reacting any differently than she wants. I'm a person who never posts to fanfic stories so obviously I'm loving this story to get so passionately involved! Even the parts too painful to bare are absolutely delicious.
ANONYMOUS
Friday, 05 May 2006 20:31
Wow - I'm still really pondering this story. That's a mark of good work, Leiasky! I've been known to ponder and discuss Angel episodes or Buffy for days after..... take it is a compliment that I'm thinking of your work that much. I hope you don't mind my commentary especially when I get a bit philosophical.
Like this comment: I'm really kind of bothered by what Inara did. Not the hypnosis, per se, but in not telling Kaylee what happened to her. It wasn't fair to Kaylee OR to Simon. He is quite right in this section; he didn't have a chance to help. If he'd known - or even suspected something- he and Kaylee might have made a different choice about the pregnancy. He could have made sure the women were physically not hurt - and what about disease? He could maybe have arranged for counseling for Kaylee - Inara does has the resources in that regard, but she took away her friends' choices.
Inara has the right to make those choices for herself - but it was really .... darn, I want to say unconsiconable of her to think she could make them for Kaylee and Simon too.
I still love the character of Inara - I think she did the wrong thing for the right reason..... I hope that everyone can forgive each over and that the happy times will come again.
There is some big fallout coming first --- I do think. And I'm starting to put things together - Simon won't be delivering his baby (as per River) because Kaylee will be away from him when the child is due. She's about to pop now, correct? I wondered at the beginning if it would be something like that. So it still *could* be Simon's baby.... *fingers crossed*
They have the technology to find out in that century.... but would you want to know if you were Kaylee/Inara?
Keep it comin' Leiasky..... I swear that you'd be right at home on the ME writing team! You're making me cry.
- Tresta
Like this comment: I'm really kind of bothered by what Inara did. Not the hypnosis, per se, but in not telling Kaylee what happened to her. It wasn't fair to Kaylee OR to Simon. He is quite right in this section; he didn't have a chance to help. If he'd known - or even suspected something- he and Kaylee might have made a different choice about the pregnancy. He could have made sure the women were physically not hurt - and what about disease? He could maybe have arranged for counseling for Kaylee - Inara does has the resources in that regard, but she took away her friends' choices.
Inara has the right to make those choices for herself - but it was really .... darn, I want to say unconsiconable of her to think she could make them for Kaylee and Simon too.
I still love the character of Inara - I think she did the wrong thing for the right reason..... I hope that everyone can forgive each over and that the happy times will come again.
There is some big fallout coming first --- I do think. And I'm starting to put things together - Simon won't be delivering his baby (as per River) because Kaylee will be away from him when the child is due. She's about to pop now, correct? I wondered at the beginning if it would be something like that. So it still *could* be Simon's baby.... *fingers crossed*
They have the technology to find out in that century.... but would you want to know if you were Kaylee/Inara?
Keep it comin' Leiasky..... I swear that you'd be right at home on the ME writing team! You're making me cry.
- Tresta
ANONYMOUS
Friday, 05 May 2006 20:38
OOps...
Lots of people have posted since yesterday and my post above...... so forgive me if I repeated any thoughts or feeling others had. I hope Leiasky doesn't mind. :-)
And I'll reiterate - (as other have) that the fact I'm thinking so hard on this story, and reacting to it, indicated how much I love it and how deeply it's affecting me.
I read most everything but I rarely comment ; a story has to really move me for me to do that.
Lots of people have posted since yesterday and my post above...... so forgive me if I repeated any thoughts or feeling others had. I hope Leiasky doesn't mind. :-)
And I'll reiterate - (as other have) that the fact I'm thinking so hard on this story, and reacting to it, indicated how much I love it and how deeply it's affecting me.
I read most everything but I rarely comment ; a story has to really move me for me to do that.
Friday, 05 May 2006 22:32
I'm really surprised that this has gotten so many comments! Thanks to everyone for that even if you agree or don't with the way its been going.
>Simon won't be delivering his baby (as per River) because Kaylee will be away from him when the child is due.
That's - kinda - right.
>but would you want to know if you were Kaylee/Inara?
Yes, they will want to know.
Next chapter will be a few days away as my sounding board is away for the weekend. I've been spoiling everyone with chapters every day anyway.
>Simon won't be delivering his baby (as per River) because Kaylee will be away from him when the child is due.
That's - kinda - right.
>but would you want to know if you were Kaylee/Inara?
Yes, they will want to know.
Next chapter will be a few days away as my sounding board is away for the weekend. I've been spoiling everyone with chapters every day anyway.
ANONYMOUS
Saturday, 06 May 2006 00:44
"Next chapter will be a few days away as my sounding board is away for the weekend. I've been spoiling everyone with chapters every day anyway."
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!
~Wickedwms~
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!
~Wickedwms~
Sunday, 07 May 2006 06:54
"The road to Hell is paved with good intentions..."
The amount of angst permeating here is almost unfathomable, Leiasky. Simon's tossing out his Oath with little thought (as I would be too, I must note, if I was in Simon's shoes), Mal's dumping his honour code as a hinderance...and Inara....oh boy, is she making one big ass mistake with her choice to alienate Mal and Simon.
Honestly, I really wonder if you're not having Inara punish - subconsciously - Kaylee for having someone like Simon there to do anything to help when Inara never had that chance herself. She has Mal - now - but when she was first raped, all she got was platitudes and counselling from presumably female colleagues and specialists. She's got mucho baggage that is seriously clouding the matter. Kaylee needs counselling, of that I have no arguement over. But she needs Simon...needs him bad. They need one another to make a serious effort to deal. And Inara needs Mal. She needs him to work his captainy mojo to get her to see reason. If he had a soldier under his command back during the war who had pulled these kinds of stunts (even with the best of intentions and proposed outcomes), he would have to have taken them aside, tore them several new orifices and made them damn sure that these kinds of lone wolf stunts were morally unconscionable.
That being said...can't wait for the next part:)
BEB
The amount of angst permeating here is almost unfathomable, Leiasky. Simon's tossing out his Oath with little thought (as I would be too, I must note, if I was in Simon's shoes), Mal's dumping his honour code as a hinderance...and Inara....oh boy, is she making one big ass mistake with her choice to alienate Mal and Simon.
Honestly, I really wonder if you're not having Inara punish - subconsciously - Kaylee for having someone like Simon there to do anything to help when Inara never had that chance herself. She has Mal - now - but when she was first raped, all she got was platitudes and counselling from presumably female colleagues and specialists. She's got mucho baggage that is seriously clouding the matter. Kaylee needs counselling, of that I have no arguement over. But she needs Simon...needs him bad. They need one another to make a serious effort to deal. And Inara needs Mal. She needs him to work his captainy mojo to get her to see reason. If he had a soldier under his command back during the war who had pulled these kinds of stunts (even with the best of intentions and proposed outcomes), he would have to have taken them aside, tore them several new orifices and made them damn sure that these kinds of lone wolf stunts were morally unconscionable.
That being said...can't wait for the next part:)
BEB
ANONYMOUS
Monday, 08 May 2006 00:30
I've been thinking about this fic all weekend. The actions and responses of all your characters have been spot on to what I expect.
If Kaylee continues to allow Inara to make unilateral decisions on her behalf, she may find Inara permanently alienates her from her husband, Simon. Both women may even think this to be a good thing for the short term, I think, but will regret this long term.
I don't believe Kaylee, while a likeable character, is a strong enough woman to shake off the well-meaning control of her friend. It will be interesting to see how the next few chapters play out, and see if a reconciliation is possible between Inara, Kaylee, River, Simon and Mal.
If Kaylee continues to allow Inara to make unilateral decisions on her behalf, she may find Inara permanently alienates her from her husband, Simon. Both women may even think this to be a good thing for the short term, I think, but will regret this long term.
I don't believe Kaylee, while a likeable character, is a strong enough woman to shake off the well-meaning control of her friend. It will be interesting to see how the next few chapters play out, and see if a reconciliation is possible between Inara, Kaylee, River, Simon and Mal.
Monday, 08 May 2006 00:36
>It will be interesting to see how the next few chapters play out, and see if a reconciliation is possible between Inara, Kaylee, River, Simon and Mal.
Thanks. I've tried really hard to make sure they sound right. It's been difficult at times because of the subject matter and its now nearly 2 years post Miranda and none of us knows how all of the characters really would have changed. leaves alot to interpretation but I'm happy to see most people seem to think I'm getting the characters somewhat correct.
>It will be interesting to see how the next few chapters play out, and see if a reconciliation is possible between Inara, Kaylee, River, Simon and Mal.
Well, I'll tell you this much. I do have it all plotted out even though everything is not yet written. For the short term, everything will be as fine as it can be. When Kaylee does find out (sorry to break it to everyone, it won't be soon - in any sense of the word) the trust will be irrevocably broken.
Kaylee (and by default, Simon) find out in the last story of the series.
Thanks. I've tried really hard to make sure they sound right. It's been difficult at times because of the subject matter and its now nearly 2 years post Miranda and none of us knows how all of the characters really would have changed. leaves alot to interpretation but I'm happy to see most people seem to think I'm getting the characters somewhat correct.
>It will be interesting to see how the next few chapters play out, and see if a reconciliation is possible between Inara, Kaylee, River, Simon and Mal.
Well, I'll tell you this much. I do have it all plotted out even though everything is not yet written. For the short term, everything will be as fine as it can be. When Kaylee does find out (sorry to break it to everyone, it won't be soon - in any sense of the word) the trust will be irrevocably broken.
Kaylee (and by default, Simon) find out in the last story of the series.
Wednesday, 24 May 2006 17:41
Yikes, River/Simon yelling, no good.
*“We’re going to find the liumang who orchestrated this and if it is the last thing I ever do, I am going to rip his throat out with my bare hands.” *
I can see Simon doing it, calm and cool and humming as he pulled out everything in Niska' throat.
And double wow on River getting comfort from Jayne.
*“We’re going to find the liumang who orchestrated this and if it is the last thing I ever do, I am going to rip his throat out with my bare hands.” *
I can see Simon doing it, calm and cool and humming as he pulled out everything in Niska' throat.
And double wow on River getting comfort from Jayne.
Saturday, 03 June 2006 22:25
just to let you know, on lots of the feedback i do, i write by what is happening as i read, so...this might be long.
oh poor river...and simon, everything's falling apart
"Everything was a dark and violent blur. But her memories of that day, they were the only thing she could see with any clarity and as they continued to play through her mind. She felt herself grow more and more numb, the rawness of the moment and the realization fading until she felt nothing." -- ...such a powerful line and so truthful, you are doing this subject justice, you really are. oh poor kaylee!!
"her life was changed forever and the thought of that only served to force Kaylee into a deeper state of shock." -- again, powerful and truthful line.
“'Nothing I can do?' Simon’s hands shook as he shot a withering glare toward Inara. 'Yes, you’ve made it quite clear tonight that I’m incapable of protecting anyone in my life.'” -- oo, poor poor simon, god i'm not even halfway through the story and my eyes ae already welling up.
"Simon flinched as if he’d been shot, Kaylee’s revelation that he was not the father of their baby shooting like a searing knife straight into his heart." -- ouch, but wait! he still might be the father right?? it's not set in stone! he could be!!...right? :( and what about inara's baby...?
tears now, this is all just a not good situation, i'm really really hoping things turn out with some kind of happy ending...i really am.
I agree with TamSibling and Leighkohl about Inara. I understand why she did what she did, and while she made a bad mistake that will only hurt in the end, she thought she was doing the right thing, wanted to do the right thing for Kaylee, since she already knew what horrible damage the knowledge that one had been raped could do to a person, both physically and mentally, from her own experience...
and i've read that kaylee needs simon (in some of the above comments) to get through this. i think...eventually she'll need simon, eventually they'll need to work it out, make it better, make things alright again. right now however, kaylee is hurting, kaylee is needing space. she's ashamed that this whole thing happened, she probably doesn't feel comfortable with simon at the moment (probably not comfortable with anyone at the moment, but more so with simon since this all came back in their bed, while they were making love), and if she sees simon, sees the hurt and the pain in his eyes, it will only hurt her more. like inara said, she didn't want simon to know in the first place. Kaylee needs to come out of the shell she's withdrawn into before she is with simon some more, and i know that hurts both her and him, but there's some things that people just need to get through slowly before they can come to terms with the rest. there's no easy answer to this, like in much of life.
you're a great writer leiasky, evoking so much emotion in what you write. you really are. thank you for some awesome stories so far. this is one of the best chapters, although saddening and painful to read, so far in my opinion.
(and yes, niska dying in lots of pain and suffering is a good thing...)
oh poor river...and simon, everything's falling apart
"Everything was a dark and violent blur. But her memories of that day, they were the only thing she could see with any clarity and as they continued to play through her mind. She felt herself grow more and more numb, the rawness of the moment and the realization fading until she felt nothing." -- ...such a powerful line and so truthful, you are doing this subject justice, you really are. oh poor kaylee!!
"her life was changed forever and the thought of that only served to force Kaylee into a deeper state of shock." -- again, powerful and truthful line.
“'Nothing I can do?' Simon’s hands shook as he shot a withering glare toward Inara. 'Yes, you’ve made it quite clear tonight that I’m incapable of protecting anyone in my life.'” -- oo, poor poor simon, god i'm not even halfway through the story and my eyes ae already welling up.
"Simon flinched as if he’d been shot, Kaylee’s revelation that he was not the father of their baby shooting like a searing knife straight into his heart." -- ouch, but wait! he still might be the father right?? it's not set in stone! he could be!!...right? :( and what about inara's baby...?
tears now, this is all just a not good situation, i'm really really hoping things turn out with some kind of happy ending...i really am.
I agree with TamSibling and Leighkohl about Inara. I understand why she did what she did, and while she made a bad mistake that will only hurt in the end, she thought she was doing the right thing, wanted to do the right thing for Kaylee, since she already knew what horrible damage the knowledge that one had been raped could do to a person, both physically and mentally, from her own experience...
and i've read that kaylee needs simon (in some of the above comments) to get through this. i think...eventually she'll need simon, eventually they'll need to work it out, make it better, make things alright again. right now however, kaylee is hurting, kaylee is needing space. she's ashamed that this whole thing happened, she probably doesn't feel comfortable with simon at the moment (probably not comfortable with anyone at the moment, but more so with simon since this all came back in their bed, while they were making love), and if she sees simon, sees the hurt and the pain in his eyes, it will only hurt her more. like inara said, she didn't want simon to know in the first place. Kaylee needs to come out of the shell she's withdrawn into before she is with simon some more, and i know that hurts both her and him, but there's some things that people just need to get through slowly before they can come to terms with the rest. there's no easy answer to this, like in much of life.
you're a great writer leiasky, evoking so much emotion in what you write. you really are. thank you for some awesome stories so far. this is one of the best chapters, although saddening and painful to read, so far in my opinion.
(and yes, niska dying in lots of pain and suffering is a good thing...)
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