Great essay. I really liked how you showed the development of the relationship over the episodes and how you described the characters.

And we see confirmation of Mal's lost faith -- "None of it means a damn thing."
I always wondered what he meant by that. Now, I get it.

As seen from Inara's perspective, Mal and Inara is edgy and dangerous and something unwanted and yet desired. Something fascinating.

I think that captures Mal/Inara perfectly and why I ship this ship. Thanks for this lovely essay.