Title: A Voice in the Wind
Prompt by: ViaLethe
Rating: PG-13/T
Setting: post-BDM
Originally posted: 22nd July 2021
Notes: for Drabble Exchange 2021 at Dreamwidth and AO3.

"Never had you down for piloting type."

River smiled, though her eyes remained on the view ahead.

"Mathematics, science. Mostly intellect required. Some physical strength, some instinct, she supposes."

"You're not wrong, little one." Wash sighed, dropping down into the co-pilot's seat. "Still, best instincts in the world can't always save you."

River's eyes closed, then reopened as she breathed through the borrowed pain.

No surprise to find him gone.

After all, it had been weeks since he passed.

"Always guiding," she said, looking out at the stars, then down at the plastic dinosaur near the controls. "Never truly gone."