Title: And So it Begins

Rating: PG-13

Synopsis: Just filling in some scenes missing from the film, Serenity.

Notes: First part of my Book of Days series

Author’s Note: I refuse to think that Simon’s wound at the end of Serenity (the movie, not the episode of the same name) was anything less than incredibly serious. I also believe that the medical technology available on the Alliance ships were able to heal him quite rapidly (I assume it took only a few weeks) – thus allowing for the lovely, shirtless scene at the very end of the film.

Disclaimer: This story is not meant to infringe on the copyright of any person or company related to the trademarked characters and situations depicted in the Serenity movie or Firefly series. I make no money from this. OnIy done for fun – and a desperate craving to have more stories told about this wonderful ‘verse Joss Whedon created.

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“Stand down. It’s Finished. We’re finished.”

Heavy metal weapons fell from slack fingers as River Tam bounded through the open blast doors. The strong, stoic face of the government-made assassin instantly turned into that of a frightened young girl – frightened that she had not kept her promise; frightened that she had not saved him.

Alliance troops lowered their weapons and made no move to stop the blood-covered girl. Instead, they turned to gape at the bodies that littered the floor at her feet.

River’s eyes fell on her brother, lying motionless on the floor, Inara’s hand resting on his shoulder. Her legs couldn’t carry her to his side fast enough and when she fell to her knees beside him, the tears were already slipping down her cheeks.

The Captain stood behind her as Kaylee’s arm reached toward her brother. Inara sat back as she covered Simon’s bloodstained hand with her own. She pressed them against his side, and shuddered when he groaned from the pain.

“River?” Simon’s voice held a wondrous surprise and a grateful relief. His sister was alive.

“It’s ok