Summary: River Tam could have become anything she put her mind to, but all she wanted to do was dance. A story detailing the events leading up to River's decision to go to the Academy. Pre-Series. Focus on River's relationship with her parents. Characters: Gabriel and Reagan Tam, River, Simon

Disclaimer: Everything belonging to the Firefly Verse belongs to Joss and associated entities – everything else left over belongs to me.

SILENT MEMORIES

Prologue

Classified Facility on Osiris, Dr R. Taverley's Office – 2500AD

The state of Robert Taverley's office might have been likened the devastation caused by a terraforming accident. Needless to say, that like most men of his genius, Robert Taverley didn't pay attention to useless things like neatness or organisation because his mind was always inevitably focused on something else – usually very important to the history of the 'verse, and/or the future of humankind. This was such an occasion, and when his assistant Adria Miller knocked on the door and tried to get his attention, he seemed absolutely adamant in his refusal to acknowledge her.

"Dr Taverley?" Adria said for the fourth time, raising her voice.

Robert sighed with annoyance and said tersely, still not raising his eyes, "I'm very busy Adria." He continued to type away.

"I know Dr Taverley…but I've just received a wave from Doctor Min. It's Reagan Tam sir…"

The words 'Reagan Tam' completely captured Dr Taverley's attention. He stopped his typing, and was suddenly moved to stand.

"Yes?" the urgency in his voice prompted Adria to reply.

Adria smiled triumphantly, "She's just delivered a healthy baby girl."

Taverley sunk back into his seat, with a smile of victory plastered all over his face.

"And Yun Min?"

Adria grimaced, "Unfortunately…she failed sir. Mrs Tam requested another Doctor."

Taverley hardly seemed to find this anything to worry about, as he waved his hand dismissively still smiling widely, "You know what? It doesn't even matter anymore…"

He looked at his screen, regarding the picture of the woman who was going to make all his dreams come true. Her name, Reagan Angelica Cardinal-Tam.

"It doesn't matter…" he repeated, hope shining in his eyes. "My girl always comes through for me in the end."