MISC Hall of Fame

Lady Catherine de Bourgh lie silent in her final resting place, being as richly appointed as her home had been upon this earth. Carvings of magnificent detail adorned the mahogany surface that surrounded her now lifeless body. Many were in attendance at the viewing and wake meant to honor her, but few had kind words for the woman who was more known for her intolerance and viciousness than anything that could be even remotely considered kind or charitable.

Ever her steadfast patron, however, Reverend Collins flitted around the group, giving out his practiced and ill delivered well wishes to family and friends. His offering of condolence was well meant and sincere, though his words rarely seemed to convey such a truth. His longsuffering wife, Charlotte, tried her best to be solicitous of the people, for her husband's sake, but she found them to be pretentious and lacking substance. Still, she was willing to endure because of her dearest friend, Elizabeth. Mr. Collins who bore his cousin no ill will for refusing his offer of marriage, was now offering his profuse and ebullient sorrow to Mr. Darcy over the loss of his relation.

"Mr. Darcy," he began as he bowed clumsily and deeply, "Please allow me to express the sorrow I must impart at this time of deepest grief at the deprivation we must now all endure in the loss of Lady Catherine. I feel it profoundly as I am certain you yourself must also, though you were estranged these many years. Such things are of little consequence when tragedy strikes. I feel certain she would bear no ill intent upon you for such events in the past. No, I am convinced Lady Catherine was of a large and generous heart in such things and would be pleased that you have come to pay your respects now that she is forever lost to us all."

Fitzwilliam Darcy listened with patience of a saintly nature and nodded, "Thank you Mr. Collins. I know she was fond of you. Rest assured you will not be forgotten in her absence. Anne has assured me that your position at the parish will be continued as before without interruption."

Mr. Collins looked shocked and a bit affronted, "I am pleased to know it, Mr. Darcy. But please do not suppose my grief to be ingenuine and of a nature as to garner your good favor for such an event as this. I am aware that you would have inherited Rosings Park and all its splendor had not Lady Catherine refused to entail it. She did express her displeasure at giving over her holdings to a man, but I know she was repentant at the end for her daughter's sake. I am sure she trusted that you would care for Miss de Bourgh appropriately even though you had not been granted ownership of Rosings, and sent you a missive expressing such a bidding. Nevertheless, I do feel great sorrow over her passing."

Darcy nodded, "I do not doubt your sincerity, Mr. Collins. It is, I am certain, the reason for your continuance in service of Rosings Park." He had no intention or interest in sharing any particulars about his cousin's inheritance or dealings in any way, and so refrained from speaking on the subject any further.

"Then I do indeed thank you, Mr. Darcy, most humbly I thank you."

Darcy dismissed himself from the man and went in search of his wife Elizabeth. In times of stressful and unpleasant dealings, she was his rock and strength. Catching sight of her standing with Charlotte and Anne de Bourgh, he made his way across the crowded room nodding to passing condolences and stepping up to the group. "How are you holding up Anne?" he asked gently.

Anne was dressed in a lavish black gown, which her mother had chosen for her to wear at this occasion. "I am well cousin. Please do not fret over my condition. I am not as feeble as mother wished everyone to believe."

Darcy nodded, "I well know it, Anne. I do find myself wondering if you will continue here once you marry..."

"Cousin, please...let us not imagine such things will ever occur. I know I am well past that age of desirability and my mother made certain no man would enter into my presence. I am content to live out my life in peace and solitude."

"Anne…" Elizabeth chimed in urgently and reached for her cousin's hands, "Do not suppose such a thing to be set in stone. You are looking far stronger and bright, and I dare say, you will find many men will be desirous of your company and favor."

Anne looked at her with sadness and resignation, "And how am I to ascertain if any of those gentlemen would be sincere upon obtaining my good opinion of a pure and noble motive? And not just to obtain Rosings?"

Elizabeth gave her hands a gentle squeeze, "This is precisely why you have cousins and relations to safeguard your heart and possessions. You know Mr. Darcy would never allow a man to deceive you."

Anne squeezed her hands in return and nodded, casting a gentle glance of appreciation to her cousin. Though her mother had always intended him for her, she had never seen him in such a light. He had always intimidated her greatly. She could see the rightness of his relationship with Elizabeth, where her mother never had been able to see anything but defiance and lack of class in the Bennet family.

The remainder of the wake and funeral procession passed by with practiced precision and speed, for which the Darcys and Lady Anne were all grateful. Darcy and Elizabeth were agreeable to remain at Rosings for a period of adjustment and reorganization, and to assist Anne in learning to govern the household on her own. She apologized profusely for her lack of knowledge of the household, but her mother had not brooked any alteration to her ways in any thing even miniscule in nature. Anne could now see the huge disservice her mother had done to her in this. Luckily she was well educated and of a ready and diligent nature. Her cousins were well pleased with her willingness to grow and learn. It seemed that she blossomed before them, from the sickly, timid soul to an assured and even outgoing woman.

Anne, at Elizabeth's urging, planned to open Rosings for a large gala ball to announce Anne's rightful place as Lady of Rosings Park, and to announce her to society, since Lady Catherine had never done so. The invitations were returned without a single refusal, which Elizabeth expected, but which Anne feared was people wishing to gawk at the awkward daughter of Lady Catherine, as she had come to be accustomed. However, Elizabeth was not about to allow such speculation in regard to her cousin. Especially since she could now be allowed to have a friendship with her, as she had often desired in times past. Pity for the girl's closeted lifestyle had always burdened Elizabeth's heart. For having to endure the constant presence of Lady Catherine surely, but also for being kept in such an isolated existence. Such things should never happen, and she dearly hoped that Anne would be able to recover the life that was kept from her in times past.

To that end, Elizabeth went with Anne to choose the perfect gown for the occasion. They visited many linendrapers before finding a gown that was exactly perfect for Anne. The fabric was a fine woven brocade of deep maroon with a tiered Marie sleeve and cream colored lace inset in the front. There was also a matching cream colored shawl of the same fine embroidered brocade fabric to match. It was beautiful and elegant and Anne was glowing with enchantment over the perfection of the fit of it. Her golden hair seemed lighter as did her pale blue eyes against the bold color, and Anne could not even believe she was looking at her own reflection in the glass.

Satisfied with their purchases, the women returned to Rosings to continue to plan the gala ball together. Elizabeth had been much helped when she had taken over at Pemberly by Mr. Darcy's household manager, and she had been so ridiculously grateful at the time. The exact degree of her overwhelming ineptitude as well as her mortification at her lack of preparation to handle such a daunting task still haunted her even now. So, she was very glad to now be able to pour that same relief into Anne's soul as a means of repayment.

After many days of planning and fussing over every detail of the arrangements, the day of the ball finally arrived. The women spent much time in preparation, with their maids doing their hair and seeing that their garments were perfectly pressed, as well as placing the perfect adornments into their hair, and upon their necks. Once they were both satisfied with their appearance, the two moved to the main entrance of the great hall and prepared to greet their guests. Mr. Darcy stood with them, as was his duty, along with Colonel Fitzwilliam, who had only just arrived, having received notice of his aunt's death with much delay regrettably.

Guests arrived in a constant onslaught for what seemed hours, but finally all guests had arrived and the party retired to the main ballroom, to mingle and enjoy the ball. Colonel Fitzwilliam claimed Anne's first dance and afterward, she did not sit a single one for the remainder of the evening. One man, someone who seemed to draw much speculation and inquiry, claimed three dances, setting himself apart from the other gentlemen in his intention.

Elizabeth leaned close to Darcy and whispered, "What do you know of that man?" she asked, "He seems most intent on capturing Anne's attention."

"He is Jacob Stanhope. He has only just inherited his father's shipping empire and is to have the oversight of it for the foreseeable future. I do not know the man personally, but he is from a good family and has been long sought after for the matrimonial estate by many women and their families."

"Ah, that does sound a familiar epidemic among wealthy men, does it not?"

"As you well know, my love."

"Indeed, for a young man with a mighty fortune must be in want of a wife else he perish of deprivation and solitude."

Darcy grinned and pressed a kiss to her temple, "I was informed as much, yes, upon many occasions."

Elizabeth gave his side a gentle poke with her elbow and then looked over at the young man in question.

"Am I to surmise you wish me to investigate the man's intentions?"

Her eyes flashed as they rolled in less than patient forbearance. "If it would not trouble you too terribly much to do so. I believe we are to ensure your cousin's safety from anyone who might be in pursuit of her merely for monetary gain, correct?"

"Ah yes. So we are." He bowed to her with a grin of impish devilry before parting from her and crossing the room to the gentleman in question. He bowed and made polite conversation with the man for a time before making note of his particular attention to his cousin Anne. Colonel Fitzwilliam was standing nearby as well, also feeling concern for his cousin, and listening in on the conversation furtively.

"It does you great credit, Mr. Darcy," Jacob noted, "To take such intimate care of your cousin. I do pay her particular attention because she is fully worthy of it. I find myself in a similar conundrum as Lady de Bourgh. I am pursued for the fortune women and their families seek to gain through a marriage alliance with me. It has become even more a problem since my father's passing. How can one know if attention is genuine, or based upon you in any way at all? No, I am convinced that without exception I am approached by people who could not care for my happiness at all, but see only a safe haven of wealth for their child."

Mr Darcy nodded, "I have been in your shoes, Mr. Stanhope. Allow me to assure you that some women's affections cannot be bought with wealth. Those women are worth the wait, and the effort involved to win them."

Jacob Stanhope nodded, "I fully agree. Lady de Bourgh is such an one. She is modest and gracious. Two traits that I find very appealing. Still, were I you, I imagine I would be wary as you are. I intend to prove my worth over time, not from one ball, if I may be allowed such a privilege."

"That would largely depend upon the wishes of my cousin. I will not speak for her in this matter. I will consult with her and return with a reply."

The rest of the evening passed in a blur for Anne. Jacob Stanhope was not the only man to express a wish to know her better and she was quite frankly overwhelmed by the attention and deferred all answers until she could clear her head. Something that both Darcy and Fitzwilliam both strongly advised.

The next morning at breakfast Anne looked as if she had not slept a wink all night. She did not speak much and was very much within her own thoughts. No one pressed her or even intruded upon them, but allowed her the space to think through her options without interference. However, by the dinner meal her desire to talk had returned and she set before her family, some of her thoughts. She summarily dismissed the intentions of several men as obnoxious and a few others as unmannerly. She was then left with Jacob Stanhope and Neville Berkeley as the two men who had impressed her with their manner and wit.

"I find I have no desire to be burdened with another person like my mother, of dour expression and cruelty. I wish to have joy and happiness in my life. I do not believe I am selfish in this desire."

"Of course not," Elizabeth chimed in with a fervent nod of her head, "You should be pleased and happy with your choice, and allow yourself to find love. It is not unattainable, Anne."

Anne looked at her beautiful cousin and felt sure her words were true for a natural beauty as the Bennet sisters had been known to be. She however, had never been known for her stunning good looks. She was feeling better about her appearance of late, but she still felt she paled in comparison to Elizabeth and Georgiana. "Perhaps," she conceded.

Darcy spared her any further comment, "Then I shall inform these men of your agreeableness to spending a bit more time with them, and gently inform the others of your declining of their attentions." His idea of gently may be different than hers but the deed would be done without her having to pain herself with the task.

Colonel Fitzwilliam was trying valiantly to hide his smile, but it could not be suppressed. In an attempt to contain his growing humor at Darcy's comment he looked to Anne, "Shall we invite one of these gentlemen to dine with us?"

"Dinner." Anne looked terrified.

"Dinner would be a perfect opportunity to take their likenesses," Elizabeth said as she looked around the table. "And we can help you...if you wish it."

Anne looked at Elizabeth with something akin to grateful terror. Her facial expression at that moment was an exact mixture of apprehension and hope. She did have romantic dreams. What woman did not? Hers were merely very well hidden and buried deep within her heart, but they were there.

A week later the first gentleman appeared at Rosings park for dinner. Neville Berkeley was dressed appropriately, though a bit plainly. He was not a showy man in his outward appearance, but his manners were gentle and cheerful in nature. He spent a good deal of the time before dinner regaling the group with stories of his various adventures as a barrister, leaving out the names of course to protect the identity of those he was poking humor at with his tales. He had a way about him of drawing in a whole crowd to attend to his every word, and once he had that attention he did not relinquish it. Only the dinner bell being rung broke his string of amusing anecdotes.

Dinner was a slightly quieter affair, with Darcy and Fitzwilliam each asking a few questions of the man, for their own reasons and to take their measure of the man's character. Fitzwilliam found the man very likeable, and a good match for Anne's more reserved manner. Darcy was not as quick to give his good opinion, nor was Elizabeth. Still they passed the evening enjoyably and all saw the man to the door before they retired to the music room.

Darcy was thoughtful and quiet. Elizabeth watched him, wondering what could be troubling him, though she too had misgivings she could not identify of her own.

Fitzwilliam poured himself a brandy, "Cheerful fellow that." he said breaking the silence in the room.

Anne smiled, "He told such stories as we danced," she offered, "I was quite entertained."

Elizabeth, having been in the past completely taken in by a happy manner and open nature, was not so easily persuaded of good character. "He is a good storyteller. He would do well as an author I imagine. Who would not wish to read such amusing tales to divert their mind from troublesome times?"

Darcy huffed, "The weak minded?" he interjected, "Forgive me love," he said placing a soft kiss to her temple, "I could not for all the money in the world listen to such drivel for many nights together. He does have a way of speaking that is engaging, i will give him that much. But though it was entertaining, it was underpinned with a cruelty that took a bit of the humor from it in my estimation."

Elizabeth thought back on the stories and she could not disagree with her husband's observations.

Anne shook her head, "Oh Darcy," she said as she gasped in a surprised breath, "That cannot be so," she said, "He was merely taking the humor of the situations and creating a way for us to be at ease. I cannot believe he intended any negative thought or feeling toward his clients, or his profession."

Darcy dropped the matter for her sake, but he was not swayed from his initial opinion.

A week later the second gentleman appeared at Rosings for dinner. He was dressed with a bit more color and formality than Mr. Berkeley had been, but his manner, while pleasing and polite was not as gay or engaging as his predecessor. He was very attentive to Anne, asking questions and attempting to honestly befriend the entire group. He even managed to convince Elizabeth and Georgiana to play for them all before dinner. Dinner was again a time of quiet questions and polite conversation after which they once more retired to the music room. Jacob lingered for a bit of time after dinner, and even played at the harpsichord for their entertainment.

"You are too kind," he said of their complements, "My mother was very ill when I was younger and music helped her to pass the days with less discomfort. Since her passing it has been a source of comfort to me, and a reminder of her memory." He thanked them all for a delightful evening and his wishes to have them all join him at his family estate not far from town in one week's time.

Darcy took the man's hand but it was Anne who replied for the group, "We have no set engagements. We would be pleased to join you."

Jacob smiled a full and joyful smile and gave Darcy's hand a firm squeeze, "Shall we say six then?" and when he had a nod in the affirmative, he bowed to the ladies, "Thank you for the lovely and delicious dinner, dear ladies. I look forward to seeing you both again in one week's time." And having said as much they walked him in like manner to the gate and saw him off before retiring to the music room.

Anne sat and watched the group, "So, what think you of him?" she asked, "I know you all have thoughts."

Elizabeth chuckled, "Indeed, how can we not? We are attempting to guard your heart and safety."

Darcy poured himself and Fitzwilliam a glass of brandy, "He has a bit more substance, and he was not attempting to hide himself behind tales of humor. But I will reserve my comments until after dinner next week, if you do not mind."

Anne made a face, "I mind, but I doubt it will avail me at all."

Fitzwilliam laughed loud at that comment, "I fear you are correct Anne. For my part, I saw no glaring fault in him. He is not as jovial as Mr. Berkeley, but as Darcy noted, he seemed a bit more genuine especially as concerns you. He at least spent time seeking to know you, and us too for that matter."

Elizabeth had to agree on that point, but like her husband she was not speaking her mind without further exposure to these men and their character. She had learned caution, realizing only after painful experience that not everyone is as they appear upon first acquaintance. The difficulty in this for her was that she sincerely wanted Anne to be happy, and it seemed that Anne preferred the cordiality of Mr. Berkeley. Her husband's comments about that man's manners was creating such a quandary for her. Was Mr. Berkeley trying to cover up for some great personal weakness by being so jovial? Was Mr. Stanhope honestly interested in Anne, or did he too have an ulterior motive? Surely the dinner they would share at his home would allow her a bit of enlightenment and direction in advising Anne properly.

The week passed quickly, as Elizabeth and Anne worked on learning the ins and outs of properly overseeing the care and provision of Rosings Park and her many constituents and employees. Anne was pleased to be able to make things better for everyone, under Darcy's advice and direction. She allowed for more wood to keep the huge estate warm and not as damp, which she noted had most of them feeling much better. She made many changes in the way things had always been done by her mother, because she had come to see them as selfish and unnecessary. Rosings produced more than enough money to afford to give the employees of the great manor a fair and comfortable life, and Anne intended to see that they had it. With every passing day she became more sure of her own abilities and that she could indeed manage things on her own.

With that knowledge however, came the secondary thought that she would lose her newfound freedom to make these choices to better others' lives, if she were to choose to marry. Did she wish to accept the governance of another again? Was she ready to place her life in someone else's hands? The many questions that crowded her mind regarding being a wife, began to make her more afraid of choosing than of being alone for the rest of her life.

Finally the night of the dinner arrived and once again the three women, for Georgiana Darcy had arrived that morning from school, spent hours being fussed over and pampered before they were ready to leave for their engagement. The invitation had been extended to all of them, and so Colonel Fitzwilliam joined them as well in the carriage as they made their way through town and out a bit into the countryside. The house set back down a long drive and as the carriage approached they were impressed by the immaculately sculptured gardens that could be seen just beyond the trees that lined the drive. The house itself once it came into view was crafted in the not English styles of the time, but looked rather like someone had literally dropped a french ornate chateau in the middle of the Kent countryside. It was very large and sprawling nearly half of the circle pull around and was ornately detailed at the roof eaves and the windows with what appeared to be gold corbels. The design included many interesting shapes which nearly forced the onlooker to desire to see the spaces inside. Anne found herself much impressed since Rosings was elegant, but not at all as interesting from without as Mr. Stanhope's manor.

A footman appeared from the gate to help them out of the carriage and usher them inside where Mr. Stanhope was awaiting them at the main doors. He bowed to them and welcomed them all with a friendly, inviting cordiality and ease that had them all instantly comfortable.

Elizabeth spoke first, "Your home is quite astonishingly beautiful, Mr. Stanhope."

"Is this french architecture?" Anne inquired.

"It is indeed Lady de Bourgh," he replied as he led them into the music room to relax before dinner, "I thank you for your kind words Mrs. Darcy. My mother was from Lyon and this was my father's attempt to help her feel less homesick for her native land." he looked around the room they were presently occupying and a sad smile appeared on his lips, "This was her favorite room," he said and the brushed off the thoughts and turned his attentions back to his guests. "I do hope you did not find the journey too long?' he asked as a beautiful young woman entered the room. She was dressed in nearly regal finery and her dark brown hair was adorned with pearls and flowers in a most becoming twisted braid.

The gentlemen all stood as she arrived and Darcy and Fitzwilliam both bowed to her.

"Please allow me to present my sister, Joelle Stanhope," he said formally, "Joelle, this is Lady Anne de Bourgh, Mr. and Mrs. Darcy and his sister Georgiana Darcy and finally Colonel Fitzwilliam."

"It is my great pleasure to finally meet you all," Joelle said with a brilliant smile, "I have heard such lovely things of you all from my brother." Her attention turned to Anne then, "Forgive me for being unable to attend your ball, Lady de Bourgh, I had much anticipated it but that day I had the unfortunate luck to be beset by illness and the doctor forbade me to travel."

Anne smiled kindly, "I am sorry we missed the opportunity of meeting you earlier. I do hope you are restored to full health now."

"Oh thank you, yes," she beamed, "I am grateful to report that I am."

Jacob was about to speak when the butler announced that dinner was ready to be served and the group retired to the dining room. The conversation around the table was lively and cheerful, much due to Miss Stanhope's friendly and outgoing manners. The meal was extraordinarily lavish and prepared to perfection. Once they were all seated comfortably in the music room again Joelle played and sang for them all.

Darcy leaned over to Jacob, "Take very good care of your chef, I am tempted to lure him away from you."

Jacob chuckled, "You would not be the first. He is well paid and I am blessed to have him."

Joelle left the piano after playing two songs and singing for them. Like her brother she was gracious and humble in receiving their appreciation. "Thank you all, I am glad you were pleased, but I understand that all of you are talented on the pianoforte as well."

Georgiana shook her head, "I fear my shyness forbids me singing before people as you have, I quite admire your boldness."

"It is selfishness honestly," Joelle admitted, "I enjoy it far more than my hearers I am convinced of it."

Anne smiled, "I highly doubt it. That was superb."

The remainder of the evening was passed in pleasant conversation, with Colonel Fitzwilliam spending a fair amount of time speaking with their lovely hostess. At length, the evening came to an end and the group climbed into the carriage and made the journey back to Rosings.

"I would not be adverse to spending more time in their company," Colonel Fitzwilliam said once they were out of the circle and back on the long drive off the property. His smile had not diminished since he had begun speaking to Joelle Stanhope.

"OH?" Darcy said with a devilish gleam in his eye, "You did not find Miss Stanhope overly accommodating?"

Fire flashed in Fitzwillliam's eyes, "What? Surely you did not think as much. She was charming and gracious."

Darcy laughed, "One meeting and you are smitten."

Elizabeth placed and hand on Darcy's arm, "He has a fine eye. She is lovely."

"And I dare say she has the dowry to garner your interest cousin." Anne offered as she tipped her head to look at him.

Georgiana stayed quiet as she listened to their conversation. She had a few suitors but no one had ever made her feel the rush of emotion she had once felt for Wickham in her gullible youth. Though he had been unworthy, she still wanted that type of connection with her future partner, and the more she saw her brother and Elizabeth together the more firmly the notion became fixed in her mind.

The Colonel did not gratify them with a reply from that moment on about any possible favor he might be feeling toward the lovely Joelle Stanhope. The expression on his face was telling enough, though he was unaware of the fact.

At breakfast the next morning Anne seemed a bit out of sorts, "Are you feel well Anne?" Elizabeth inquired.

"I am well dear Cousin...I did not rest well is all."

"Is something troubling you?"

"Actually yes," She admitted openly, "May I ask a question of you cousin? It is of a rather personal nature."

"Of course."

"Thank you." She paused a second to gather her words, "Do you ever regret marrying?"

The shock on Elizabeth's face could not have been contained for the power of her reaction, "No, not ever. What brings that question?"

"I have always been rather terrified of my cousin, though I know it was my mother's fondest desire for us to wed. Do you not feel...couched in? Being subjected to his authority?"

"Oh I see…You cousin has never made me to feel that way. He is sensible of my feelings and attentive to my needs, but I have great freedom to do as I desire, within the realm of propriety of course. He has in fact helped me a great deal to further the prospects of my younger sister Kitty, and gives me total freedom in the management of Pemberley. I believe I enjoy more freedom than most women can boast."
Anne nodded, "I would have to agree in light of that reply. It has occurred to me that if i choose to marry I will lose every bit of freedom I now enjoy since my mother's passing. Forgive me, I know that sounds incredibly selfish…"

"It most certainly does NOT sound selfish!" Elizabeth vehemently denied, "You have been forced to live according to another's bidding your entire life, and that was much to your own detriment and disadvantage. Forgive me for speaking so of one who can no longer defend themselves from my criticism, but you mother treated you so poorly. It always bothered me, Anne, truly it did. And for you to now value the ability to decide for yourself is not selfish but wise. What I suppose you must decide dear cousin, is if you want to spend your life free and alone or take a risk on a man being willing to allow you a certain amount of freedom and share your life with him."

"Yes, I suppose that is my dilemma."

The next month passed in a blur of activity. Both Mr. Berkeley and Mr. Stanhope appeared several more times at Rosings, and the family enjoyed several more dinners with the Stanhope's Estate. Anne was no closer to a decision between the men than she had been the night of that first ball, nor even had she concluded whether she wished to encourage either of them at all.

It was Mr. Berkeley however that appeared at their doorstep one day uninvited and unannounced. The Butler showed him into the parlor and summoned Anne in response to his visit.
He stood when she entered and waited for her to take a seat before he sat himself in a chair close to her but not next to her. He folded his hands together and leaned forward a bit in his chair. "Miss de Bourgh," he said softly, "You can be in no doubt of my intentions for our acquaintance. I know this may be considered abrupt, but I have no choice in this matter, as I must leave soon on business. Will you consent to be my wife?"

Anne was alarmed at the change in his demeanor and way. Gone was the jovial man and in his place was one that was overly serious and demanding. At least she felt his manner in that way. "I thank you for your request Sir," she began but before she could continue he stood and was glaring down at her.

"You surely do not have the audacity to decline."

"Excuse me?"

"Honestly? You are the most pathetic creature I have ever encountered, and you are going to turn away an offer of marriage? Had I not the need of additional funding for my business I would never have considered you. I can assure you, that everyone else is of the same opinion. Good day Madam, consider my offer lifted and your burden to answer as well." He stormed out leaving her shaken and shocked.

Georgiana saw Mr. Berkeley leaving and noted the brusque manner of his movements and was instantly taken back to a similar exit from her life long ago. She tentatively moved toward the door to the parlor and saw Anne sitting on a chair transfixed. She frowned and moved to her side kneeling before her and taking both Anne's hands in her own. She did not speak for she knew there were no words for times such as this, but merely offered her support silently.

Elizabeth entered upon this scene unwittingly and stopped at the door, fearing she had intruded upon some private conversation, but Georgiana motioned for her to enter. Once she got closer she saw the look on Anne's face and concern instantly filled her, "What on earth happened in here?' she asked as she pulled a chair closer and sat next to the other two.

Anne stared at the wall and told them the entirety of the conversation in explicit detail, though with in a far less emotionally charged manner than had actually taken place.

Elizabeth and Georgiana exchanged a meaningful glance. Georgiana left the room quietly and went in search of her brother. "Anne," Elizabeth softly called to her, "Surely you realize he was completely in error…"

"Was he?"

"Yes, Anne. He was."

Anne just stared at the wall reliving every encounter with the man and trying to ascertain how she could have so totally misjudged his character and comportment. It shook her to know her judgment was so wholly wrong. Could she trust her judgment in regards to any man? Was she this gullible and desperate for a man's attentions? The resounding answer echoed in her brain, yes. She did not speak but left the parlor and went to her room. Elizabeth followed her for a time, but allowed that time alone was more than likely what Anne needed most.

Darcy appeared at her side with a puzzled expression on his face, and Elizabeth gave him all the particulars of the encounter and he hissed out an exasperated breath. "I knew he was a fraud." He left Elizabeth and went out into town to find the man in question and confront him, but he found no evidence of such a man even existing, nor a company, nor any record of such a man staying at any place in town. How had he happened to be invited to the ball? He wondered. Was the real Mr. Berkeley the victim of foul play? Surely Anne had avoided a far greater tragedy than having to endure a verbal scalding. He went to the authorities then and reported him as an imposter and gave a description of the man in great detail before returning home.

Unfortunately, word of such things had a way of getting around, and the very next day Mr. Collins appeared at the door asking to console with Lady de Bourgh. Anne appeared in the parlor again and sat not knowing why Mr. Collins might be there, except possibly to check on her condition since the passing of her mother.

"Miss de Bourgh," he said in his normal awkward manner, "I felt it my duty to come to you this day and offer my sincerest apologies and offer my services of counsel regarding the horrible manner in which you were thrown aside just yesterday by a man of great promise and wealth. How bitterly you must feel it! To have lost such an opportunity at marriage at this advanced state of life must be intolerably painful! I must say though, that he has deprived himself of far more than you shall be deprived of since he will have no further communion with Rosings, in all her glory."

It was at this moment that Elizabeth returned from her weekly visit to Charlotte and happened to overhear what was being spoken in the parlor. She entered the room pulling off her gloves as she did so and moved to stand next to Anne's chair, "Mr. Collins," she said, "I have only just come from spending the morning with your wife, and she was mentioning something about the archbishop coming for a surprise visit…"

Mr. Collins stood up and blinked, "Surprise?" he repeated and gathered his things and fidgeted about, "Forgive me Miss de Bourgh. I must attend to other matters. But know that I consider this man a rogue of the worst sort, for your sake." And with that he exited the room and quit the place altogether.

Elizabeth put a hand on Anne's shoulder, "There is not a stupider man upon the face of God's earth, Anne….well with the exception of Mr. Berkeley. Though my husband informs me that he was more than likely in imposter, and is in fear of the real Mr. Berkeley's life. In that event perhaps it is unwise to call that criminal by an honest man's name."

Anne frowned, "Darcy had not expressed such concerns to me. I cannot say it surprises me given the violence that was seen by me of the man who claimed to be a gentleman, but it just confirms in my mind that I am incapable of making any sort of right conclusion about a man. I believe I have decided to live out my life in contented happiness at Rosings, Elizabeth."

She once again stood and left Elizabeth to ponder her going.

It was not long after Anne declined an invitation to dinner from the Stanhope's that Jacob requested an audience with Anne. She could not find a way to decline his polite request in light of the fact that he had done her no harm, and had treated her family kindly. So with much trepidation she agreed to his request.

Jacob had not seen Anne in nearly two weeks, and he was curious as to why their friendship was so suddenly ended. Word of the violent and less than gentlemanly behavior of his rival had indeed reached him, but he did not attribute that occurrence to this. He had hoped that they were at least friends, and that she would not treat a friend with such little regard. He appeared at the appointed time and was led to the music room, because Anne was growing to hate the parlor. He was confused by this, but he sat and waited for her to appear. She looked pale and sad, but he did not comment on that fact, just stood as she entered and waited for her to be seated.

"Good day to you, Mr. Stanhope," Anne said formally. "How may I help you?"

Jacob looked almost insulted by her manner of address and even by her question. "I have never required or asked for any help, Miss de Bourgh. Why you would ask such a thing at this time, I am not sure. It has been many days since I have had the privilege of being in your company, and I was concerned for you. Fearing you had fallen ill traveling late at night from dinners in the country, and feeling the burden of my own selfishness at making the requests, I wanted to meet with you and ease my mind and know your condition first hand. I am sorry if my appearance has caused you discomfort. I did not intend to do so."

Anne frowned as she listened, "Forgive me, Mr. Stanhope. I have been remiss. I am not accustomed to people taking note of my absence. I did not mean to distress you or your sister. I am physically fine."

Jacob watched her and it seemed to him that she was pulling into herself, and closing herself off somehow. It was horrible to watch, especially knowing he could do nothing to prevent it. "No, I am presumptuous. I can see that my feelings in this matter are far different from yours. Forgive my intrusion on your time and please give my best wishes to your family." He stood then and bowed to her formally and then with one long look at her he departed.

Anne sat in the chair, stiff backed with her hands folded on her lap for a full thirty minutes. She could not bring herself to move, though a lot of her wanted to run after him and beg him to love her, truly and honestly love her. She felt dead inside though, and the idea that she would never have true love filled her liked a cancer and ate at her soul. She did not appear at dinner that night, alarming her family greatly. Leaving a message with the staff that she did not wish to be disturbed, not even by family, they had little choice but to honor her wishes.

However, when she did not appear for breakfast the next morning, Darcy sent Elizabeth to check on her. Knocking on the door, she waited for a bit, and then called out to her, "Anne...please...are you well? We are worried for you."

Anne went to the door to her rooms and pulled on the heavy door, "I am well cousin. I am well."

Elizabeth looked at her and frowned, "Forgive me Anne, you do not LOOK well. What is wrong? Can you not confide in me? We are cousins and more importantly friends. At least I had hoped that we were, now that we can be."

"Of course we are Elizabeth," She felt the tears sting her eyes as she spoke seeing and hearing the hurt she had caused Elizabeth. "It seems I can do nothing right of late." She turned and moved to sit on the side of her bed. Still in her nightclothes and robe, she pulled the robe tighter around her as her head fell forward and she allowed the pain to leave her in wracking sobs.

Elizabeth went to her and sitting next to her on the bed wrapped an arm around her and held her, whispering words of comfort to her. Crying was often times cathartic and well Elizabeth knew it. How long had she spent crying over Mr. Darcy's letter? Over Lydia's thoughtless destruction of her family's good name? Over Jane's loss of her only love? Letting her cry while she patiently waited was not difficult, waiting for her to speak was, but still she waited.

Anne collected herself after much time and quietly told her cousin about Mr. Stanhope's visit. "Oh Elizabeth, how he must hate me now. He offered honest friendship and I threw even that in his face. I am a wretched woman."

"You are not wretched Anne. You have been through a lot in a very few days, I am sure if you explain…"

"Explain what? That I am an imbecile?"

"Well, if you feel the need to confess such a thing, then yes."

Anne chuckled then, which was what Elizabeth was hoping. "He would at least know I was in earnest I suppose."

"He will know in any event, I feel sure. And...what have you to lose at this point?" Having said her peace and giving her cousin a firm hug, Elizabeth left the room and went to report to Darcy what she had discovered.

Anne however went to her desk and penned a letter to the Stanhopes. She had no expectations, but wished them to know that she was sorry, and attempted to explain her confusion and fears. She was brutally honest in the letter and did not spare herself the blame of anything. Sealing the letter with her signet, she stared at it for some time before deciding to actually send it.

Many days passed and Anne feared she had done irreparable damage to a dear friend's good opinion of her. Maybe he was like her cousin, and once his good opinion was lost, it was lost forever. She went about her duties and made ready for Darcy's family to return home. Colonel Fitzwilliam had been forced back into the country long ago, and she knew that once they left she would be truly alone for the first time in her life.

The day finally came when they were packing to leave and she felt like her heart would shatter completely. All the things her mother had told her about the both of them had been utterly false. They had proven themselves to be her friends over and over again throughout this two months they had stayed, which was far longer than usual or likely planned. She could not ask more of them, Darcy had things to attend to at home, as did Elizabeth and Georgiana. She was not above making them promise to return at their earliest convenience, which they happily agreed to do.

Sitting in the music room listening to the echoes of the staff moving around the large estate, she felt the chill of her choice settle deeply into her soul. "I am just as foolish as my mother…" she said softly to the walls. She let out a heavy sigh when she heard a carriage round the park. "Please God, not Mr. Collins. ANYONE but Mr. Collins."

She stood and waited to see who was there, if anyone. It could be a delivery. It was often difficult to tell where a carriage was going, whether to the main entrance or the scullery entrance in the rear. Her butler knocked on the door to the music room, "A Miss Stanhope to see you Miss."

Anne was relieved and so very glad to have this visit. She had addressed her letter to both of them, feeling that necessary to her repentance. When Joelle entered Anne smiled a bright smile, "Thank you for coming," she said and ushered her in, "Can I get you some tea? Have you eaten?"

Joelle shook her head, "Thank you, no." she said as she sat down and Anne followed her example and sat as well, "I have come to ask you a very direct question Miss de Bourgh. Your letter was honest, and I assume your reply will be as well, for that reason."

"It will."

"Your letter mentioned being afraid of your own judgment and I can understand that, being in a similar situation myself. I cannot tell you the times my brother has saved me from infamous men. Too many to count, honestly. What I wish to know does not concern me, but my brother. He would never ask for himself, so I am asking. Do you care at all for him? Did you ever care for him?"

Anne was shocked to hear that Joelle had been fooled by men as well. Perhaps it was not her then that was at fault in this matter, or even her judgment. The realization of that created a light inside her that she felt she had lost forever. "He is the only man who has ever attempted to be my friend. I am tortured daily by the thought that I have lost his good opinion forever."

"So you think of him as a friend…"

"He has expressed no other wish to me. Miss Stanhope, I am well aware that I am lacking in certain aspects that gentlemen seek in a marriage partner. I am quite resigned to the fact that I will spend my life as I am. But losing friends, when I have so few, breaks my heart. It is even more distressing when it was my own insecurities that caused it."

Joelle looked at her like she was crazy, "You lack what?" she asked pointedly. "Kindness? Humility? Charity? If you refer to appearance, there is nothing about you that is offensive. I have little to recommend myself aside from my outward appearance and the money I can offer someone, but you have so much more substance than I. I quite admire you for it."

Anne protested, "You are genuine and kind, and of a sweet nature. What man would not be blessed to have you as his wife?"

"And yet you see none of this in yourself?"

"No, I do not."

"Well my brother does. He has been impossible to live with, and if you tell him I said as much I will of course deny it."

"Of course," Anne chuckled.

"If I were to tell you that my brother loves you, what would you say?"

"I would say you were mistaken."

"No Anne. I am not. I heard more of you in one week than I have ever heard about another woman in my life. After the first dinner at our house, he was begging me to tell him he did not do anything offensive or improper. He was so concerned for your favor and good opinion. He knew there was another man in the picture, that he was not as cheerful or witty. He had seen as much at your ball. He felt himself horribly inferior and lacking, and he did not know how to make himself acceptable to you."

Anne listened and the more Joelle spoke the more her expression became one of bewildered awe. She was silent for a time as she absorbed everything Joelle had disclosed. "I wonder if you might do me the favor of waiting while I pen a letter to your brother."

Joelle smiled, "Since I could not imagine a better sister, I will wait."

Anne blushed prettily, "He may not forgive me. Some men find it difficult to overlook faults such as those I have confessed."

Joelle just smiled and motioned to the desk in the corner.

Anne stood then and wrote another letter, this time to only Jacob.


My Dear Friend Jacob Stanhope,


I pray you will indulge me in the reading of this second letter, since I have something of import I feel I must tell you and since I fear you may not allow me to do so in person, for the wrongs I have inflicted upon you, this is my only recourse. Forgive me for presuming upon your time and attention, both are greatly appreciated.

There are times in life when one must take stock of their choices, both the wise and foolish, and accept the consequences of both as their just due. I find myself earnestly desirous of mercy, and forgiveness instead of the condemnation I rightly deserve. How can I convey my sorrow over the loss of your company? How can I convince you that I feel completely devoid of joy and peace? How can I even dare to hope that you feel that same loss?

It is highly presumptuous I know, and even arrogant to believe that I might in some way matter to you in any way. But, Dear Jacob, I must tell you that I miss you. I felt the light die within me when you walked out of Rosings with such a disappointed expression on your face. I wish I had been strong enough to run after you as I fervently wished to do, but I was a coward. Given another opportunity, I would chase after you and beg you not to go. Given another opportunity, I would offer a broken and damaged heart at your feet, knowing that only you could mend those pieces and create a new heart within me.

Am I too late? Have I done irreparable damage to your good opinion of me? I sincerely hope I have not.


All my heart,


Anne de Bourgh


She sealed the letter as before and presented it to Joelle. "I can only hope now."

Joelle hugged her and kissed her cheek, "I will welcome you to the family now, Sister." She said and then left almost skipping out of the room in her joy. Her brother would complain for a second, about her interfering but she would soon be forgiven she knew. The ride home seemed to take a million years, but finally she arrived and flew into the house in search of her brother. She felt sure he would be the same place he had been for a week, sitting in his office staring out the window.

She moved into the room, closing the door behind her and then stood between him and the window looking down at him with a positively disgusted look on her face, "How long are you going to mope about in this ridiculous manner?"

Jacob looked up at her and he could not even muster the emotional response her words should have elicited.

"Oh for pity sake Jacob. Snap out of it, or I will not give you the letter I have for you."

He waved a hand, "Let me be, Joelle."

"Very well, I will tell Miss de Bourgh you did not care to read her letter…"

He was up out of the chair and standing between her and the door faster than she ever remembered him moving. "You will do no such thing."

She smiled sweetly, "You can pretend to be angry that I have interfered." And handed him the letter before she kissed his cheek, "I do love you brother."

He was wondering exactly what she had done, but he was more interested in what the contents of that letter might be. He sat and looked at it for a time before drawing up the courage to break the seal. He read the letter five times and then rushed out of his office, nearly plowing Joelle over, as she was listening at the door.

"OH!" she gasped as she nearly fell to her bottom.

"That is what happens when you make yourself a busybody."

"Luckily you love me." she replied cheekily, "Now go get me a Sister."

He kissed her cheek and went to get his horse, rather than waiting for the carriage. He did not have to stay to the roads that way, and made it back to Rosings in half the normal time. He handed the reins off to the doorman and then requested to see Anne. He was led to the music room, where Anne was pacing nervously. She looked up and stopped cold in her tracks, afraid to speak and afraid not to speak.

He did not give her the opportunity but crossed the room and pulled her tightly into his arms and held her close. He then released her and pulled a box from his pocket, "Miss Anne de Bourgh of Rosings Park, will you please consent to be my wife, share my life and build a future together? I have been in love with you since the first night we met. I can no longer see any future life for me without you in it."

Anne looked at the box and then back at him, "Nor can I."

"Is that a...yes?"

"It is."

You Can't Take the Sky From Me
A Firefly Fanfic

Serenity

Damn funny name for a ship that had seen so much. For Captain Malcolm Reynolds, Serenity was home, but it hadn't always been. Six months had passed since Miranda. Six long, tiring months, and not for the first time, Mal found himself missing Shadow. It was a charred lump now. No more life to it than a coal briquette, but once, a long time ago it had been something to see. He wasn't a sentimental type - more than half the time, folks took to asking if he had much of a heart at all, but maybe that was the problem. Home is where the heart is… and his had been bombed to hell.

A clattering drove him from his reverie and turning, he looked to find Kaylee half bent to scoop up a wrench. Struggling upwards again, her cheeks reddened as she spotted him staring, "Sorry Cap. You was all quiet like, too. Just… Hands are all butter now." The palm of her free hand pressed to the swell of her stomach and Mal shook his head with a dry smirk as the mechanic continued, "Anywho. Grav Shaft shifted and I'm lookin' to fix her up before we're skybound again. Won't take more'n a minute… ten if she's jumpy."

"...Can you even fit back there, anymore?" Mal asked, and Kaylee's expression shifted, her hand dropping to her hip.

"Hell, Cap! Not you, too! I ain't even that big, yet!"

Chuckling, Mal rose, patting Kaylee on the shoulder, "You look good, Kaylee. Comin' along nice. Simon stop cryin' or is he still all emotions and blubbering?"

"Since I told him. Hell. I thought womenfolk were the ones 'supposed to be emotional when they got pregnant. Not the other way 'round."

"I didn't think girls could get other girls pregnant… So I guess we all learned somethin' new." Jayne's voice interjected, as he leaned up against the doorframe. Kaylee turned and hurled the wrench, Jayne ducking in time for it to fly over his head, clattering to the catwalk behind him. Chuckling, Mal shook his head

"You gon' let her--"

"I ain't about to tell her what to do, Jayne. You best apologize, before she chucks somethin' harder to dodge."

Making a face, Jayne straightened, "...I was just teasin', Kaylee."

Eyes narrowing, the mechanic pointed a finger at him, "You best be…"

"Hell, if I ever knock a girl up, I hope she's half as pretty as you are. And… round?"

""Round?", Mal grimaced, and Kaylee reached into the tool chest, grabbing a pair of plyers, "Round!? You're gonna have a hell of a time knockin' anyone up without any--"

Their voices faded into the background, as Kaylee chased Jayne from the room and shaking his head, Mal looked across the bridge to the small sprig of a girl, sitting cross legged in the pilot's chair. Her hair hung in a curtain around her pale face, eyes roving over the page of the book in her lap.

"The gestational period for a pachyderm is twenty-two months."

"...You read that in your book, River?"

Looking up, a brow quirked, and River shook her head, "No."

"The facts you carry around in that superbrain of yours… Hm. How're we lookin' for take off?"

"Soon."

"Ah. Soon. My most favorite time of day… Just… try to give me a heads up this time, hm? I don't fancy runnin' up the bay doors like last time."

"I like the way your coat flaps around when you run."

"Shiny." Shaking his head, Mal rose and left the cabin, two steps at a time. At the bottom, he plucked up the wrench that had been tossed at Jayne and straightening, came face to face with a pair of smoldering, dark eyes.

"Zoe. I was just comin' to find you."

"Kid scarin' you again, Sir?"

"Like a damn phantom, she is."

"What did you need me for?" His first mate asked, and Mal's expression shifted. Every day Zoe made great strides in getting back to normalcy, but there would always be a weight to her now that time wouldn't heal. She never entered the bridge anymore, and Mal had to think it was because she knew what she would never find there, again. They had all lost something on Miranda. But none more than Zoe.

"Got a letter I need you to take a look to."

"You got a secret admirer, Sir?"

"It's from Ben."

"Oh. Damn."

In the mess, Mal handed the crumpled paper to Zoe, who took to reading as he paced back and forth. Twice, she looked up at him and the third time, her hand shot out to stop him, "Makin' me nervous, Sir."

Frowning, rubbing a hand over his face, Mal shrugged, "You think it's cause for concern?"

"Seems like it might just be…"

"Dìyù hé gāo shuǐ… It's been years, Zoe."

"That it has. He never…?"

"Not once."

"Says a lot, Captain. None of it the kind that bodes terribly well."

"Would you go?" Mal asked, a brow raised. Zoe seemed to consider the question, her expression a mask of indifference that dark, exotic eyes mirrored.

"Wouldn't feel terribly compelled. Ain't my letter though."

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Mal reached out and Zoe returned the letter, "Piece of unwarranted advice, Sir?"

"Best kind there is." Mal noted, with a dry smirk.

"Talk to your wife."

A sigh escaped, and Mal dropped his hands to his sides, "Hell. That sounds like a terrible idea."

"Sir, I would--"

"Last I tried to talk to her about anything this risky, she near about tossed me out the shuttle bay. Got a remarkably strong arm, that woman."

"Sir…"

"Not to mention it ain't exactly a thing we ever came round to discussin'... My family."

Rubbing her brow, Zoe shook her head, "No, it wasn't. But don't seem like you got much choice, now, Sir."

"Well, sure I do. I just keep my trap shut and--" At the soft guttural sound behind him, Mal paused, and smirked, "...And she's right behind me, ain't she?"

"...Wearin' her best scowl, Sir."

"Zoe… Would you please be so kind as to shoot me?"

"No, Sir. I'll leave that your woman." Giving a small salute, Zoe turned and laughing, slipping out of the dining room. Turning around, Mal flashed a sheepish smile.

"My treasure."

"Don't... " Inara hissed, holding up a finger. The dark haired woman started forward, cupping her fingers beneath Mal's chin, "Sickness and health. You remember that one? Those vows we made three weeks ago?"

"Vaguely recall those words in some particular order, yes?"

"...Do you want to test them? Or are you going to start talking?"

"Or we could just… skip to the part where you yell at me, and then I yell, and then we're both yellin'-- hell, let's just skip to making up?" His hands slipped to her waist, but with a solid smack to his forearms, he retracted them, "Damn it, woman. You don't play fair. Sit down, Àirén, it's a long one…"

As Inara sank in a chair, Mal laid the setting on the table before her, "What's this?"

"It's from my brother."

"Your… you have…? Mal."

"It's like I said. Long story." A sigh escaped his lips and Mal sat down beside Inara, "Grew up on Shadow, small rock of a planet, not much to look at, but it was home. Worked the farm for my mom, most days it was just the two of us. My pop cleared out when I was six. Didn't possess a whole hell of a lot of paternal instincts to begin, but turned out it was Mom gettin' pregnant again, threw him off the whole notion. About seven months in, Mom had some complications and the baby came early. Ben was weak from the start… most folks didn't think he'd make it, but he survived. We all did.

When the war hit, Ben was one of the first in our town to sign up. Trouble was, not even the Browncoats had a terrible use for a skinny kid with ambitions. Guess he got told 'no' too many times, so he ran off. Decided he didn't need an army behind him… That he could make somethin' of himself."

"...What happened?" Inara asked, her hand cupping his. Her thumb traced circles across the edge of his wrist, and Mal shivered. Sometimes, it was so hard to see the former companion in her, but there were times when all those years of training were impossible to miss.

"Near got himself killed is what. Stole a flag ship from the Alliance… Ran the damn thing into a regiment. We thought he was done for, rightly should've been. Trouble is, they don't ever do what you expect them to, do they?"

"I'm starting to think it's intentional."

"Anyway. Just before the war ended, we found out Ben was still alive, rottin' in Alliance lockup. Zoe and me, we scrounged together a small band… tried to break him loose. Got damn near close to it, too. Till Ben showed up on the wrong side, starin' us down the barrel of a Alliance grade Laser pistol."

"He turned…?"

"I shoulda seen it, Inara. He was a dumb kid, lookin' for a chance to prove himself, and that's exactly what they gave him. Anyway… We made it out, but we lost a few men and a week later, Shadow got bombed to hell."

"Did you hear from him after?" Inara asked, looking down at the letter, "Before this?"

"Not a damn word. Part of me thought maybe he died, after all. Still did, till that showed up." Pointing to the paper, Mal shrugged, "Doesn't matter, far as I care. Fool me once…"

Turning her honied gaze down, Inara read over the letter, shaking her head slowly as she did, "Doesn't sound like you, Mal. I've never seen you leave anyone behind. Even when they deserved it."

Jaw clenched, Mal turned away, "We all got limits, Inara."

Putting the letter on the table, Inara rose and leaning forward, pressed a kiss to Mal's cheek, before resting her palm against its warmth, "...Read it again, Mal. Think it over…"

Her footsteps receded to the door and with a sigh, Mal's eyes glanced across the letter again, before he snatched it up.

Mal,

I know I'm probably the last person in the Verse you wanna hear from, and maybe that's fair. I know I made some mistakes - or at least that's how you see it. But none of that's important now. Thing is, it took me close to a year to find you, and I'm not giving up, now that I have. I need your help, Dà gēgē. Got no right to ask this of you, but family is family, like Mom always said, and I gotta think that counts for something.

After that whole mess between you and I. Didn't sit well, what went down, and I guess I just lost the taste for it. That life. I know what you're thinking. That I got myself into it. And that's fair. I did. And I know you won't believe me, but I didn't know it was you, Mal. When they told me what was goin' down.

But that's not why I'm writing.

I ran into trouble a while back. Wound myself up on Santo, of all places, looking for work. Alliance didn't have much use for me, see, when the war was over. Anyway, work there was scarce, like it is most places, and I guess I got desperate. No, Mal. I got stupid. That's the thing. You know me. I always get stupid. Took a job for some tah mah duh hwoon dahn. Thought it was legitimate. Turned out it wasn't, but by the time I realized it, well… I guess I was just caught up, you know? For a long time it was pretty tame stuff… Meds, drugs… the occasional shipment of guns. But a few months back, they started getting shadier with the details. Then one day, one of the guards was a little slow closing the shipment crate.

I saw them, Mal. Dozens of them. Girls. Dunno what they're doing with them, but you can bet it isn't anything good. Anyway, I started looking for you, soon as I realized. Asking around. Finally came to Persephone and some peacock named Badger says you got yourself a smuggling business on some fancy Class Five. So I started sending out post, figured eventually you'd get one. And hey.. If you're reading this, I guess I did something right for once.

But now I need to do something else right. And I need your help, Mal. These girls, some of them were just kids. Don't sit right with me, doing nothing, Anyway. I get it if you can't. I know I messed up, and I won't blame you for writing me off. But on the odd chance you got it in you to give me one more chance, I'll be waiting at a place called Gal's in Santo's shopping district. I know I got no rights to ask you for anything… Just hoping…

Ben

Crumpling the paper, Mal rose and shaking his head, he left the Mess, heading back to the bridge in purposeful strides. As he arrived, River glances up from her book again, a single brow arched as Mal sank into his chair.

"Set a course for Santo, River."

"Blood of the covenant…"

"Other way 'round, this time, Kid."

---

Santo came into view, a swirling marble of blue and white, on the border of the white sun. As River slowed in preparation for their descent, Mal rose from his seat to find Inara standing in the doorway, wearing a small, satisfied smile.

"...Not a word, Woman." He remarked, as he slipped past her.

An hour later, Zoe and Jayne were waiting by the bay doors, the latter sporting a blue cap with bright orange pom-poms. It was the latest gift from the man's mother, in a long string of hideous and succinctly 'Jayne'-esque headwear. Rolling his eyes, Mal swung into his duster and unclipped the hostler at his hip, "Can't say what this'll entail… and I ain't askin' you to risk your lives for my kin."

"We've got your back, Sir." Zoe noted.

"Plus, the pay…" Jayne noted.

"Ain't no pay, Jayne."

"No p-- Hell. Forget th--Augh!"

With a smack to the back of Jayne's head, that sent his hat to the floor, Zoe repeated with exaggeration, "We've got your back."

"Yeah, whatever." Jayne grumbled, picking up his hat, "Let's just get this over with."

"Inspirational as always, Jayne." Mal smirked, gesturing to the bay doors.

Gal's, as it turned out, was a Gentleman's Club on the outskirts of the city, which was just enough to boost Jayne into a more helpful mood, until Mal informed him they weren't there to play, driving the Gunslinger back into a state of perpetual sulking. It was a disposition befitting the circumstances, however, and as Jayne's expression soured, Zoe's flashed darkly.

"Ten o'clock, Sir." She chimed, and Mal's gaze drifted to the bar.

Ben hadn't aged much, since Mal had last seen him. He was a tall beanpole of a man, with a shock of dark brown hair that stuck out at odd angles, and a lopsided mouth that fixed his features into something of a smirk. His face was bare, a family trait it seemed, and eyes, a glassy blue were rimmed by lashes far too pretty for a man. The weakness he had carried with him as a child, and into his young adult years still clung in the straight edge of his jaw, in the thinness of his wrists and elbows. He was nursing a mug, and there was a tremor as he lifted it to his lips.

Before Mal could stop her, Zoe had already started forward and he swore under his breath as the woman plowed her fist into his brother's face, sending him and the contents of his mug flying with the crack.

"Oohee…" Jayne howled, grinning, "And I was worried this'd be no fun."

By the time Mal reached the bar, Ben had righted himself, rubbing his jaw with a sheepish grin, "'Lo Zoe. Guess she's still mad, huh?"

Zoe gave a jolt forward and Mal put up an arm to keep her at bay, shaking his head, "Not a great start, Ben."

"Story of my life…" Rising, he sank back into his seat and lowered his hand into his lap. As Zoe straightened, Mal sat as well and for a moment, an uncomfortable silence stretched out. It was Ben who broke it, clearing his throat.

"Right, so… I guess you got my letter."

"This ain't just some hell of a coincidence, Ben. I got it."

"I was worried you wouldn't… I mean… I kinda figured you might just… I wouldn't have blamed you or anything, but I guess I'm just glad you're here."

He could feel Zoe tense, behind him and Mal clenched his jaw, "Ain't a family reunion, Ben."

"Right. The job." Clearing his throat, Ben nodded, "So… shipment usually comes in pretty late. Two crates, big red metal things. I only seen inside that one time, but it's the same cargo. Sometimes, you hear 'em… cryin'." Grimacing, he lowered his gaze, "Tried once, to get in, but I almost got caught. Last guy they pinched tryin' to steal from the boss wound up in seven pieces… I'll let you guess which pieces."

"Who's the boss?" Zoe's voice broke through, cool and definitive, and Mal looked back at her, before he returned his eyes to his brother.

"Guy named Carp. Don't exactly strike fear, but the man's an animal, no pun intended. Seen him shoot a guy, just for interruptin' him, once."

"Sounds charming… Let's say hi." Jayne commented, and Mal shook his head.

"I take it he's guarded?"

"Like a damn princess." Ben confirmed, nodding, "Arsenal is pretty high grade, too. And the place is a fortress."

"Can you get us in?" Mal asked.

"Reckon I can get you through the door, sure…"

"That's all we need." Mal rose, brushing off his slacks, "But after this, Ben? We ain't gonna get matching sweaters and meet for holidays. We go back to pretendin' your little backstabbin' mission succeeded. We clear?"

"Crystal." Ben muttered.

"Shiny. Jayne.. Get Serenity on the comms. Let the good doctor know we got powerful need of his sister. Ben, Zoe. Let's roll…"

---

Fortress, as it turned out, was not an overestimation of Jim Carp's enterprise. All the place needed was a few turrets, and a moat. Arriving by the front door might have intimidated any average man, but the crew of Serenity had seen too damn much, been through too much to put stock in ogres and dragons. Ben's credentials got them through the doors, and after that it might've gotten tricky, except that they had a secret weapon that not even Carp and his men were prepared for.

River Tam was a force to be reckoned with… And reckon, she did. By the time they reached Carp's office, the petite brunette had taken out a score of armed guards without breaking a sweat. The last three had run before she'd turned the corner, leaving the office door unmanned. Inside, Carp sat behind his desk, wearing a scowl that suggested he was privy to the fate of his men… and there was an unmistakable quiver to his voice as he spoke.

"Who… who the hell are you?"

"Don't much matter." Mal answered, leaning against the doorframe, "I heard tell you got yourself some merchandise ain't exactly aboveboard. Me, I don't take much offense to illegal matter, 'cept trouble is, you? You're sellin' people, and that rubs me all sorts of wrong ways." Straightening, he rested his hand on his sidearm, "So here's how it's gonna work. You're gonna stop. Tonight. No more shipments in or out. Closed for business."

"And what makes you think I answer to you?"

"You don't… You answer to her." Gesturing to River, he smirked, as the girl turned her eyes up to Carp, "Names River. And she's got a powerful mind in that pretty head of hers. You heard of what happened up there, on Miranda? She did that. Near single-handed. Scares the hell out of me, and me she likes. But you? She don't take a fancy. So either you get compliant… or I walk away, and she sticks around to finish our chat. Word of warning, she don't like to talk much."

Swallowing, Carp leaned back in his chair, "...I'll be ruined."

"My heart bleeds for you. We got us an accord? Or do I let you two get acquainted?"

"...I ain't scared of some little girl."

Grinning, Mal shook his head, and looked to River, whose own mouth twitched up in a subtle smirk, "...Wrong answer."

---

Three hours brought them back to Serenity, where with a yawn, River announced she was going to bed. In the end, Carp had agree to their terms with certain resignation, that resignation probably having something to do with the fear of losing his teeth. Mal was met by Ben, standing on the bay plank, his eyes wide as he stared down at his brother.

"What happened? Did you get in? Did something go--"

"Deal's done. Carp's out of the shipping business."

"Wait. That's it? You just… walked in and asked him to stop?"

"I said pretty please."

"Damn."

"Thing you gotta know about my crew, and me, Ben… We get the job done."

"Mal, I… Thank you. It's been hell… knowin' what's happenin' to those girls. And I guess… well, I guess that's it. Deal's done. I'll get lost." Fidgeting, he knotted his hands together, and Mal glanced up to Zoe, who had paused by the bay door, watching with a lifted brow. He shrugged and the woman smiled, rolling her eyes with a shake of her head, before she turned, walking away.

"Other thing you gotta know. We're family here. It's screwy, and it's gone through a hell of a lot of changes, but it's all some of us got. We trust each other. We got to, cause ain't nobody else out there got our backs."

"I get it, Mal."

"No you don't, kid. You never did." With a sigh, Mal turned away, "Thing is, it's my fault… what happened all that time ago. I didn't have your back, and you went off to find people who would. Just turned out they were on the wrong side. It don't excuse what you did, and those men that died, that'll ride on your mind for the rest of your life. Does mine. But it ain't no use hatin' you for it…"

Staring at Mal, Ben's brow quirked as he studied his brother's face, "...So, I guess I'll write, then?"

"...Or you can stay. Your choice." Brushing past Ben, Mal moved off into the ship, wearing a smirk.

For Malcolm Reynolds, Serenity hadn't always been home, but as it turned out, sometimes, that didn't matter much... Cause home found you.