#Isabelle crawley

[fanficsiwillneverwrite]

[kidcataldo]

If downton abbey had an 80s theme song

[juanatrastamara]

the white queen 10 year anniversary: most underrated characters -

[ J A C Q U E T T A • O F • L U X E M B O U R G | M A R G A R E T • B E A U F O R T | I S A B E L • N E V I L L E | C E C I L Y • O F • Y O R K ]

dowager duchess of bedford | countess rivers | mother of a queen | not a witch • mother to a king | duchess of suffolk | countess of richmond | lady stafford | countess of derby | my lady, the king's mother | patient | pious | venerable | survivor | the red queen • kingmaker's daughter | duchess of clarence | house of york | the forgotten sister | lady warwick • viscountes welles | daughter to a queen | sister to a queen | lady kyme |

[perioddramapolls]

Period dramas dresses tournament: Blue dresses Round 2 Bracket!- Wil be updating with the links once esch poll is posted

Group A

Laeta, Spartacus vs Wu MeiNiang, The empress of China

The princess, Donkey skin vs Isabella of France, Braveheart

Juliet Capulet, Romeo and Juliet vs Catherine Gordon, The white princess

Viola de Lesseps, Shakespeare in love vs Françoise d'Aubigné, L'aillée du roi

Group B

Max, Black sails vs Louise de la Tour, Outlander

Catherine of Russia, The great vs Orlando, Orlando

Umrao Jaan, Umrao Jaan vs Christine Daae, Love never dies

Parvati Chakraborty, Devdas vs Daphne Bridgerton, Bridgerton

Group C

Lajjo, Heeramandi: the diamond bazaar vs Mary Crawley, Downton abbey

Anne Shirley-Cuthbert, Anne with an E vs Katherine Lester, Lady Macbeth

Emily Dickinson, Dickinson vs Ann Walker, Gentleman Jack

Duchess d’Antan, Impromptu vs Isabelle de Merteuil, Dangerous liaisons

Group D

Kosem sultan, Muhtesem yuzyil Kosem vs Rosaline, Love's labour's lost

Anne Boleyn (2), The other Boleyn girl vs Ki Seung Nyang, Empress Ki

Vannozza Cattanei, The Borgias vs Nergui, Marco Polo

Lygia, Quo vadis? vs Ariadne, Atlantis

[collapsedsquid]

The UK has announced it is giving up sovereignty of a remote but strategically important cluster of islands in the Indian Ocean after more than half a century. The deal – reached after years of negotiations - will see the UK hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius in a historic move. This includes the tropical atoll of Diego Garcia, used by the US government as a military base for its navy ships and long-range bomber aircraft. The announcement, made in a joint statement by the UK and Mauritian Prime Ministers, ends decades of often fractious negotiations between the two countries. The US-UK base will remain on Diego Garcia – a key factor enabling the deal to go forward at a time of growing geopolitical rivalries in the region between Western countries, India, and China. [...] The UK will provide a package of financial support to Mauritius, including annual payments and infrastructure investment. Mauritius will also be able to begin a programme of resettlement on the Chagos Islands, but not on Diego Garcia. [...] The Chagos islanders themselves – some in Mauritius and the Seychelles, but others living in Crawley in Sussex – do not speak with one voice on the fate of their homeland. Some are determined to return to live on the isolated islands, some are more focused on their rights and status in the UK, while others argue that the archipelago’s status should not be resolved by outsiders. Isabelle Charlot, speaking on BBC Radio 4's World At One programme, said the deal brought back hopes her family could return to her father's island "roots". Plans for the Mauritius government to arrange resettlement would mean a "place that we can call home - where we will be free," she said. But Frankie Bontemps, a second generation Chagossian in the UK, told the BBC that he felt "betrayed" and "angry" at the news because "Chagossians have never been involved" in the negotiations. "We remain powerless and voiceless in determining our own future", he said, and called for the full inclusion of Chagossians in drafting the treaty.

[chicago-geniza]

The final scene between Isabel Archer and Casper Goodwood is of course essential to any erotic fanfiction between Cora Levinson and Robert Crawley, but thankfully the authors are fully cognizant of that already

[hopepaigeturner]

An Offer from an Avid Reader: Grandma Alexandra--the unexpected crossover

For those who have not read the Rokesby series, Grandma Alexandra is Edmund Bridgerton’s mother. As @lli95s says, she is overprotective, a peacemaker and elegant. In First Comes Scandal sheis shown to be a gifted artist through embroidery, a talent that her youngest daughter notices five-year-old Benedict sharing.

Therefore, I, like many others in this fandom, have hopped onto the ‘Grandma Alexandra taught Benedict to draw’ train. And thought how useful her character can be in S4 as a facilitator for other storylines.

And yes, I'm gonna use Violet Crawley gifs. Who else could I use?

Grandma Alexandra’s appearance is brief, but her presence is felt as her death facilitates various plot points/scenes.

After the lake scene, Benedict confides in Grandma Alexandra (pre-death) about Sophie and receives some words of wisdom.

Flashback 1: Benedict’s POV showing Benedict’s role in the family post-Edmund.

Flashback 2: Alexandra’s POV showing why Benedict never gets into conflict.

Grandma Alexandra’s death pushes Benedict back into his caretaker role. This leads to little scenes showing how Benedict pushes away his feelings for his family.

It also leads to a big scene between Benophie, where Sophie is the only one who sees Benedict and comforts him through his grief. (Inc. 'you have the soul of an artist')

Grandma Alexandra’s will, notifies the rest of the family to Benedict affections for Sophie…

Context: (to be threaded through generally in conversation and do not need a specific scene explaining them).

Benedict is the only one who calls Grandma Alexandra ‘Grandmama’. Everyone else calls her by her full name.

GA is not a cold grandmother, but (as with the times) she is not necessarily a grandmother who would get on the floor and play with the kids. She has a very maternal air that some see as sombre and a little ‘impenetrable’. (Although Violet argues that the death of both husband and son have caused her to withdraw). Headcanon: My Cottage used to be her residence when she was younger, just after Edmund and Violet moved into Aubrey Hall. This is why Anthony chose to send Benedict there, knowing both GA and B would appreciate being close to one another. Whenever Benedict goes to My Cottage, his family expects him to visit GA even though they have not… (another example of Violet pushing Benedict into performing emotional labour).

So, this is a general overview of how GA could be included…if you want to read more detail then read on bold reader…

Alongside my usual synopsis of my ideas, I have included a couple of fully written scene. Honestly, I have written all these scenes fully, (but that would make the post even longer) and I think I will upload them on AO3 soon for those who want to read that. The scenes I have included are the flashbacks, and Sophie comforting Benedict in his grief.

have included a couple fully written scenes here: Benedict’s flahsback

1: Benedict visits GA

Post-Lake scene we have Mr and Mrs Crabtree return to burst Benophie’s little bubble and to remind Benedict that he needs to go see his Grandmother.

Sophie is completely avoiding Benedict due to his ‘offer’ and her mortification that the Crabtrees spotted them. So, Benedict gets on his horse and rides to his grandmother, who has ‘downsized’ to a small house with very few staff (think Lady Isabelle Crawley in Downtown Abbey). He enters to find his ageing grandmother still looking utterly elegant even though she has been confined to a lounger.

The initial exchange is to get a feel for who Alexandra is, the viewer seeing a maternal woman but one with a hidden wit and mind intact even though arthritis has her bed-bound. Even as she complain about needing to abstain and the storm and feeling cooped up, Benedict sneaks her a glass of brandy to which she says,

“Oh, you have always been my favourite—dear.”

“You are not supposed to have favourites,” Benedict teases, “although I have always known you liked spending time with me because I look most like my father,” he continues jovially. His fake smile falters upon seeing her solemn one.

“I spent time with you, my dear, because no one else did.”

2: Benedict’s flashback

Summer 1804

“I DO NOT WANT TO GO!” Colin shouted and Benedict tried not to flinch at the volume, nor raise his won mellow tone,

“Colin, please, the tailor has been very kind and come all the way from the village—”

“I do not care!”

“Colin, he needs to tailor your clothes for Eton.”

“I am not going to Eton.”

“Colin, you have to—”

“I am not going to Eton!”

Benedict steeled himself and tried to coat honey over his words,

“But you will have so much fun. New sports, new friends, all grown up—”

“I want to stay here. I do not want to go!”

“Colin, please, you have to—” Benedict reached out to comfort Colin, but the boy wrenched himself away.

“You cannot tell me what to do. You are not Anthony, you are not father. You are just the spare!” Colin screamed, running out of the room and slamming the door behind him. Benedict pulled it open but walked into an empty corridor.

He could hunt Colin down to his secret hiding place but that would exacerbate rather than calm the situation. And he couldn’t blame Colin for, with each passing day, Benedict felt the departure date for Eton looming like a monster on the hill.

Benedict sighed, a sigh that dispelled all the air from inside of him, causing him to sag slightly against the door. He closed his eyes and tried to fence in the tears that always seemed be clustering behind his eyes every hour fo the day.

You are not Anthony; you are not father!

He wasn’t and gosh, it hurt. It hurt so much to see the fractured blue of his siblings’ eyes when they looked at him, all of them desperately searching to fill the hole yawning inside of them. Anthony’s shut study door and their mother’s despondent manner had them corralling towards the only other woefully inadequate option—him.

So far, he’d managed to convince them with smiles and soft words, even though he would collapse into bed sobbing, wishing nothing more than to melt into the covers and never wake up.

"Benedict?"

Benedict shot up and rolled his shoulders.

“Daph.”

Twelve-year-old Daphne stood in a very pretty ice-blue gown and matching ribbons adorned in her hair but with her face pinched with worry.

“Are you alright?”

He flashed her his new, crooked smile, the one that seemed to paste over all the cracks.

“Ofcourse, Colin is being a bit of a bear that is all.” He approached her and tenderly tucked a wayward strand behind her ear. Then he cocked his head. “Are you not supposed to be riding off to Victoria’s for tea?”

Daphne looked down and fiddled with her fingers.

“Mama is not well, so there is no one to take me.”

“Daph—”

“It is fine.” Daphne does her own roll of the shoulders, and it makes Benedict’s stomach churn. “I should help look after the little ones, I promised to help Francesca with her pianoforte.”

Francesca could barely reach the pianoforte even when sitting on a stool with her legs dangling. But Daphne tried to look Benedict in the eye, but all that did was make Benedict see how fractured they were. Benedict furrowed his brow, then announced,

“Miss Peters shall take you.”

(yes I am using the character @eleanor-bradstreet used here)

“But what about the others? Like Gregory?”

“I can easily play with Gregory,” Benedict explained then motioned for a passing maid to find Miss Peters, the governess.

 Daphne worried at her bottom lip. Benedict knelt to be at her level, putting on his most comforting smile. “Go on Daph, go, and have fun.”

“What about you?” Daphne asked with her wide, blue eyes.

“You do not need to worry about me,” Benedict replied, the words flowing out instinctively, his tongue not catching on the prickly edges of the lie. “Now you must make haste otherwise you shall miss all the wonderful cakes—and you once told me that Victoria’s cook serves the best lemon drizzle out of all your friends.”

“Oh yes!” The sparkle returned to Daphne’s eyes. “And she always has fresh scones, and her nanny lets us put lots and lots of cream on them!”

“Well then,” Benedict rose and entwined their fingers, “let us go find Miss Peters and whisk you away on your adventure.”

“You called Master Bridgeton?”

“Yes, please will you escort Daphne to her playdate this afternoon.” Miss Peters hesitated, “I shall go aid in the nursery until you return,” Benedict placated giving her a significant look. Miss Peters glanced at Daphne and nodded with understanding--using the adept shorthand they had created over the last weeks.

“Ofcourse Master Bridgerton. Gregory has just gone down for his afternoon nap and Master Colin should be with the tailor.”

“I am not sure he shall make the tailor today. But I will work that out.” Once again Miss Peters nodded then took Daphne’s hand and led her away. Just before they descended the stairs Daphne ran back and catapulted herself into Benedict’s arms.

“Thank you,” she kissed his cheek. Benedict gave her a brief squeeze.

“There is nothing to thank me for, I am your brother—it is my duty.”

Then she left, babbling to Miss Peters about the horses Victoria had and the dolls they would play with.

Benedict took a deep breath and turned towards the nursery.

“Benedict?”

Benedict pivoted around.

There in the doorway stood his grandmother Alexandra draped in a beautiful, embroidered shawl.

She had been staying for the past week or so, once news of their mother’s melancholia had reached the family’s ears. The widow had travelled from ‘My Cottage’ , (more of a country retreat than a cottage but their father had named it as a child), overnight to tend to the grieving brood. Since arriving she had been keeping their mother company even though the latter barely spoke or moved. Most of the time she would take her meals with their mother, although a couple times she had graced family dinner with only Benedict’s goodwill managing to lurch the conversation on.

She was not a cruel grandmother, nor a necessarily cold one, but as she approached him with her dress swaying and posture tall, Benedict felt the need to straighten his back.

“Yes, Grandma Alexandra? How may I—”

“Come here.” Benedict looked around but found no back up. So, he followed her into a room where she directed him to stand in front of an easel. “Sit.”

Benedict obeyed, although sat a little more haltingly than the graceful swoop of herself. She handed him a piece of chalk that matched her own, turned back to her easel and started sketching. Benedict looked at her in utter confusion.

“Are you not going to start?” she asked, eyes flitting across her page.

“What?”

“I remember you as a child, constantly being dragged away from fireplaces because you would draw pictures in the ash. This is not so different.”

“I am not—”

“And at the dinner table you still draw little patterns and pictures with your fingers during conversation. So, sit for a moment and draw.”

Benedict heard a very distant thump, one that caused him to turn to the door.

“I should—the little ones—”

“What is the point of having all this staff if they cannot cope with your siblings for an hour on a  normal day.”

“But it is not a normal day,” Benedict said, quietly. “Nothing is normal.”

Grandma Alexandra sighed and put down her chalk. When she turned to him, Benedict saw a very gentle expression in her eyes—one that only just covered the fractures.

“Indeed…and your entire family is in pain—the entire family.” Benedict wanted to shiver at her stare even though there was no hue of hostility within them. Benedict turned away.

“I need to be with them.”

“Indulge me for one hour,” her smile shifted, smoothing down the prickles inside of Benedict. “That is all I ask.” Benedict looked at his blank page utterly empty of expectations, pasted over smiles or twisted words.

“I do not know what to do,” he murmured. Alexandra took his hand in hers and said,

“Then let me help you.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

The scene returns to the present, Benedict looking intensely uncomfortable with her statement.

“And I always appreciated it, although I am not sure you were the only one—”

“Your mother did no—”

“Mother was ill.” Benedict’s tone is final, non-negotiable, an answer he has repeated over and over until it blocked out any other thoughts on the topic. “She was ill—and not of her own volition.”

“I know, I know…I also sat with her on those long afternoons. Although your brother could have—”

“Anthony had an entire estate and family to run—far more important things than me. And he did it all on his own without complaining.”

“But he had you.”

There is a lull of silence, Benedict neither confirming nor denying.

“Regardless, that is all in the far past and does not matter. Anthony is perfectly well with Kate,” he says instead. Alexandra smiles.

“Yes, indeed. I do like her, she has the fire and steel to match his own. She reminds me a little of my Billie.”

“That sounds like a story.”

“A story for another time.” Alexandra pats Benedict on the knee. “First you must tell me what is warring in your heart.”

“There is nothing—”

“My dear, you might be able to put on a façade for the ton and your family, but not for me. I assume it is a woman.”

“No.”

She chuckles.

“You are terrible at hiding your heart.”

“Fine, it is about a woman but…I do not wish to talk about it.”

“If you say so—would you pass me that paper and chalk?”

Benedict obeys, thinking he has got away with it. Until he sits back down and pushes the pad into Alexandra’s hands, only to be rebutted.

“No, no. It is your turn this afternoon.”

“Grandmama—no.”

“Please, Benedict, dear. My fingers can no longer lift a spoon let alone embroider, and I miss it so much.” Benedict hold out for a couple moments before her imploring expression gets the better of him.

“Only for you—just this once.”

“Do not worry, I shall not tell a soul—just as I never have.”

She gives him a poignant look, Benedict returns it, sighs, and puts chalk to paper.

“Her name is Sophie…”

3: Benedict recieves some important wisdom…

There is a scene with Sophie and Crabtrees, introducing those characters, with the object of the conversation for Sophie to be a little less obstinate in taking up Benedict’s offer to find her employment with the Bridgertons. Then a return to Alexandra and Benedict…

The viewer sees that as Benedict has been talking, he has been sketching Sophie, telling the last moments between Sophie and himself. Alexandra points out that perhaps Sophie values her principles more than material comfort, (something she approves of). With Benedict feeling hopeless, Alexandra retells the story of how her husband wooed her—even though she continually rejected him. Through this conversation Benedict learns that he must not push Sophie into being his mistress; that he does not wish to let Sophie go not only because of his feelings but because he wants her to feel safe; and Alexandra prompts him to consider that Sophie would not only be safe in his bed…

“Is your bed the only place where she shall be safe?”

“Perhaps not…” Benedict’s eyes drift and then he sits up. “No, it is not the only place.” Alexandra smiles.

“While I love your company, I am feeling a little tired.”

“Yes, yes,” Benedict says distractedly, “I should leave.” He turns to her. “Thank you, grandmama.”

“It is always a pleasure. Although one last thing.”

“Yes?”

“I was so intent on my fantasy, the dream and life I took refuge in, that I almost missed what was right in front of me.”

Benedict nods.

“My Lady in Silver. Yet another woman just out of my reach.”

“Perhaps you need to go further, step froward rather than just reach forward.” (AKA: get into conflict)

“Marry Sophie?” Alexandra merely shrugs as Benedict stutters. “I do not know if I…if she and I…if I…I cannot.”

“It is another option.”

“You know I cannot,” when he does not see her instant agreement he continues, “My family would not allow it, and the scandal on the family…in the ton…I could not put my family through that.”

Alexandra is contemplative, even a little sorrowful as she says,

“One day you need to remember you are more than your family, more than a Bridgerton, you are Benedict. A man who might need to take what he wants.”

“My duty is to my family.”

“So it is for your older brother, but he was not happy until he took what he wanted, what he needed. And look at what treasures have come from such a decision.”

Benedict wrestles and then because he does not have an answer, he pivots.

“It is not the same…but I wish you would say such sentiments to his face. Maybe then Anthony would not hold you at a distance.”

The pivot works—for a moment—Alexandra’s expression drops.

“Perhaps…but I made mistakes with your brother, like your grandfather I cannot force myself upon him.”  

“I shall encourage him when I return to London.”

“Ofcourse you will. Give my love to the family.”

“I will,” Benedict leans forward and kisses her cheek. “Thank you, thank you for everything.”

The pair banter about how GA will outlive everyone, she asks to keep his sketch of Sophie and tries to fight against Benedict’s self-deprecation of his talent and himself.

Then Benedict leaves, and only once his coattails disappear does she look down on the sketch of Sophie. She smiles at the talent of the lines but also at the moment he has captured—a capitulation of the woman he is falling in love with.

“Perhaps you need a bit of persuasion,” she whispers, “Falling in love has never been a challenge for, however, standing up to your family…

4: Grandma Alexandra’s Flashback:

Alexandra gives one last smile at Benedict’s masterful sketch of a bird, assembling herself for dinner.  On the final corridor before the stairs, she hears voices and stills, peering around a window.

There, on top fo the portico over the front door is Colin and Benedict. The younger still has tears on his face while the elder speaks softly, so soft that Alexandra must strain her ears.

“…Is that why you do not wish to go to Eton?”

Colin nods, his own voice cracked from tears.

“What if mama does not get better? Papa was not ill, and he died. What if mama dies when I am at school?”

Benedict pulls Colin into his embrace and Alexandra sees the emotions ripple over Benedict face, the tears brimming in his eyes. She also sees how he tethers it all down and away when he addresses Colin.

“Mama will get better. We must never give up on her. She is a Bridgerton, she is strong and she will come back to us. And do you know what that means?” Colin shakes his head. “It means that you are a Bridgerton, and you can be strong. You will be strong enough to got to Eton like every other Bridgerton before you. Hmm?” Colin nods and wipes his eyes on his sleeve. “Can you try and be a brave, strong Bridgerton until you leave?” Colin nods again, more resolutely. “Good,” Benedict ruffles his hair causing the younger boy to squirm away with a laugh.

“Enough—get off!”

“Alright, alright,” the pair stand up and Benedict puts his arm around Colin’s shoulder. “Let us go and get some food. I heard it might be cheese and toast.”

“Really?”

“Mhmm.”

Alexandra rears away, allowing herself to be shielded as the brothers make their way down the corridor. She follows at a discreet distance and sees Anthony being the only one to comes out of the west drawing room his handsome features rigid. Alexandra knows where she shall be having dinner tonight.

“What is this I hear about Colin not going to the tailor?” Alexandra is not surprised at Anthony’s snappish tone. “He was very accommodating and came all the way from the next town. Why did you not get your clothes tailored?”

Colin shrinks a little.

“It was my fault, brother,” Benedict steps up and in front of Colin. “I distracted Colin which meant the tailor did not have time to properly fit his clothes. I apologise.”

Anthony sighs and throws his hand.

“Into dinner you go, Colin. But you will need to go to the tailor in town tomorrow.”

“Yes, Anthony.” Colin bobbed his head then ran off.

Anthony deflated but shirked off Benedict’s comforting arm.

“You have messed up everything Benedict. The tailor was very accommodating, and you squandered it. I do not have time to go into town, I have my first tenants meeting tomorrow I cannot…how will Colin…”

“I can take him.” Benedict offers quickly. “I know what he needs. The entire family can go. We can make a day out of it, all of us.” Benedict gives Antony a comforting smile, “Therefore the house will be quiet for your meeting—a meeting that will be successful, Anthony,” this time Anthony does not brush off Benedict’s arm, his eyes transfixed on his brother’s comforting expression, “you have the capability and have done the preparation. You will gain their respect.” Anthony sighs.

“I hope you are right.”

“I know I am right.”

Anthony gives him a ghost of a smile before returning to passivity.

“You must keep that ego in check, brother, especially if it is used to distract our siblings and create, rather than solve, problems.”

Alexandra bristles—more so when Benedict says,

“I apologise brother.”

The pair turn to go into the dining room when they hear a shout.

“Anthony!”

“Daphne,” Anthony accepts the hug. “What has got you all bright eyed?”

He holds her hand as she leads him into the dining room, babbling about the doll tea-party she and Victoria had and how she had been allowed two slices of lemon drizzle cake.

Alexandra watches Benedict, the last one left, smiling softly at Daphne before rolling his shoulders and his smile, unseen by everyone except for her…

*~*~*~*~*

5: Grandma Alexandra’s Death

As in my previous post, the second part of season 5 deals with the death of Grandma Alexandra. This will facilitate:

Benedict being pushed back into a caretaker role, even though he is the precise person who shall feel her demise most keenly.

The opportunity for him to receive emotional support from the one person who truly sees him—Sophie—a comparison to when he gave Sophie emotional support in My Cottage.

A wake-up call for the viewer, Anthony and Violet about them taking advantage of Benedict during times of emotional labour.

Firstly it is a normal morning in the parlour as Violet receives a letter, opens it, then asks about Benedict’s whereabouts. One of the sisters say something about him lurking upstairs and Violet leaves—Anthony’s eyes following her, concerned.

Violet finds Benedict (who pretend he is not looking for Sophie) and tells him the news. Grandma Alexandra has died in her sleep two days prior.

There is a ringing sound, the screen blurs just as Benedict’s vision does as he reels from the news, from the onslaught of grief just about to break—

“I do not know what to do.”

Benedict snaps out of it to see his mother with tears in her eyes.

And suddenly he, and the viewer, understand that Violet did not seek Benedict because he was the closest to Alexandra—but because she does not know how to handle it, for herself or for the family.

So, pushing down his grief, Benedict embraces and comforts his mother as his mother cries about losing a ‘final piece’ of Edmund, about the guilt for not seeing Alexandra before she died, and how are they to tell everyone?

Benedict just comforts her and says soothingly,

“We can do it together, mother. We can do it together.”

The next couple of scenes are muted, or that effect where the sound is muffled to reflect how Benedict is drowning in his emotions.

A scene where they break the news to the family. Everyone in shock/tears, yet Anthony frowns, realising that Violet went to Benedict instead of him to deal with this family business…

A funeral scene with everyone in ‘couples’; Kate and Anthony, Francesca and John, Benedict and Violet. Benedict’s eyes are distant as the coffin is laid in the ground. And on the opposite side, a little further back with the rest of the servants, Sophie watches, yearning in her eyes to comfort the man she loves.

6: Benophie bonding time.

Benedict is comforting a weeping Francesca, drying her eyes before excusing himself. He goes to his bedroom and shuts the door. He rest his hands on the wall, fighting back tears, obviously on the verge of breaking. He mutters to himself to pull himself together, and that this is not the place. He scrabbles in the bedside drawer and finds a flask, is about to open it when he hears a creak in the door.

Immediately he reassembles himelf, slipping the flask into his pocket, turning around.

“I am just coming—” his words die on his lips. There stands Sophie, eyes full of compassion.

“I did not wish for you to be alone,” is all she says.

Benedict breaks, bursting into tears and Sophie is instantly in his arms, holding him, comforting him, running a hand through his hair and whispering.

“You do not need to stay silent, never on my account, never with me.”

 (a reference back to My Cottage scene here).

*~*~*~* After a scene between John and Francesca (more about that in her post), the camera returns to find Benophie still in each other’s laps, on the floor of Benedict’s bedroom. Sophie is still carding her hands through his hair, even though Benedict has expelled his emotions.

“She never saw my paintings,” he whispers, voice cracking. Sophie pulls back to face him and sees his broken expression. “I never showed her my art.”

“It did not matter—”

“It did, she was the first person to see me…see that part of me and I squandered it.”

“No, no—”

“I did, Sophie, and now it is too late.”

“Listen,” Sophie cups his face in her hands. “Of course she would have loved to see the art you created, but it did not matter because whenever she saw you, she saw what I see, she knew what I know.”

“Which is?”

With the gentlest of caresses and gentlest of voices, Sophie says,

“That you have the soul of an artist.”

“Sophie—” his voice breaks, but this time not due to grief.

“You do. You can try to deny it Benedict but you do. It is why you feel so deeply, for you are open to the complete spectrum of emotion as well as colour. It is why you see the world in its every hue, in every single layer and accept the dark undertones, the white highlights and the hues in between. It is why your heart beats with such passion but also such compassion. It is why, when you draw, you capture the moment, capture the emotion—like the sly smile of Francesca or the inquisitive spark in Eloise’s eye. I see you, Benedict, more than you allow to see yourself. I see you as an artist. An artist called Benedict.”

“Sophie you are…you are brilliant.”

“Nonsense—” Sophie squirms away but Benedict holds her closer.

“I see it, and I know it. I see you, and you are a brilliant. Thank you,” his words come out hushed, for the lovers’ lips are a hair’s breadth apart, “thank you—I—”

 A commotion occurs outside and Sophie lurches away, eyes wide. The pair stare at each other, a line of fission between them, neither wanting to break the moment but both knowing they should.

Benedict breaks it and stands, helping Sophie up.

“I should go,” she whispers, as his thumb caresses her fingers.

“I wish you would not.”

“As do I.”

He looks up and sees her eyes are wide at her own admission. But the commotion occurs again reminding them of their surroundings.

“Thank you, Miss Beckett.” Sophie blushes and goes to the door, turns back one last time. In her hand is the flask he tried to slip into his pocket earlier.

“Do you want me to take this?”

“Throw it out the window—I have no use of it.”

All can see the truth behind his words.

“I am glad.”

“Thank you, Sophie,” he says one last time and then she is gone.

Benedict sighs—but a sigh that does not drain him of energy. Benedict rolls his shoulders—but not as if rolling on a façade. And he leaves the room, head held high, with something akin to hope…or maybe more…beating in his chest.

*~*~*~*~*

There is a second scene that show Sophie supporting Benedict. Benedict revealed (back at My Cottage) that he used to read stories to his sisters to help them with their grief. This time, Sophie tells a story to Hyacinth, Francesca and Eloise, effectively taking the burden off Benedict’s shoulders. This scene will be ina post about how the Bridgertons gradually become aware of Benedict’s role as emotional support and his feelings for Sophie so I will write that up in another post.  But as I said in my Benedict Bridgerton arc post, this final scene solidifies Benedict’s feelings for Sophie, causing him to whisper ‘I love you’ as she walks away.

*~*~*~*~*

7: Like every Will reading in any show…things go bonkers

"You'd think it'd be like a game show, but think of it more as a community theatre production of a tax return." Benoit Blanc

The next scene where GA pops up is when her will reading takes place. Within the episode this is a scene that occurs in the middle of the sofa scene.

First half of the sofa scene runs up to when Beneidct and Sophie…get steamy. // Grandma Alexandra’s will reading// Then the Benophie fallout part of the sofa scene a little like the book. (I need to edit this before uploading it but it’s basically written).

This ‘will reading’ scene provides Anthony with the final evidence to confirm that Benedict is in love with Sophie. Why? Because not only has Alexandra given Benedict her emerald ring (something the entire family had accepted a long time ago), but also enough income to support the life of a family if Anthony cut off Benedict. (Not a lavish one, but enough that Benophie will not be destitute). Because, as GA said when Benedict left, Benedict might need a little persuasion to go against his family…

The purpose of this money is merely to highlight and set in motion the family stopping Benophie from being together (see this post for more info). Benedict never learns about this money until after he proposes to her (showing that he would have married Sophie even if they would have been much poorer).

*~*~*~*~*

That is the end for the principal scenes that involve Grandma Alexandra. Ofcourse in the final episode, Benophie talk about Alexandra (due to the emerald engagement ring), and with wrapping up the plot.

*~*~*~*~*

Phew! I know a big post coming out of nowhere. But I got inspired by @eleanor-bradstreet and wanted to write up some flashbacks which turned into…this.

What do people think fo this storyline? I know the Bridgerton writers will not stumble upon this, but I thought it would be an interesting idea to push numerous parts of the story along, gives us Benophie content and…might be a little self-indulgent.

What do people think of this storyline? I know the Bridgerton writers will not stumble upon this, but I thought it would be an interesting idea to push numerous parts of the story along, gives us Benophie content and…might be a little self-indulgent.

I’d love to hear your ideas/corrections/opinions and always open to chat or requests.

Or check out the list here, for more of my ideas.

Or check out the general arcs of my prospective S4 here.

[msmenna]

MATTHEW AND MARY CRAWLEY - ICONIC COUPLE

Are there any Matthew & Mary Crawley fans left here? If so, I hope you will check out my AU where I have plausibly managed to have Matthew survive the automobile accident that ruined Christmas for millions in the UK 11 years ago and broke our hearts in America a short while later.

I’ve written nine stories (ninth still in progress) beginning with “Patient #9”, a journal written by Matthew while a patient in the London Hospital. There are many one-shots in between the first and last that give you a glimpse of our favorite couple in a particular moment in time.

The current tale, “Passage” contains multiple chapters and has Matthew, Mary, his son George, daughter, Victoria as well as Anna Bates and her son, JR, headed to America in 1934 at Mary’s American grandmother, Martha Levinson’s request to celebrate her 85th birthday with her. They are traveling in style at Martha’s expense on the Olympic, Titanic’s sister ship, which is identical in appearance.

Though this is primarily a story about our favorite couple, it brings you up to speed on the lives of many other Downton characters (Tom Branson is getting married and Isabelle our favorite doctor’s wife).

If you are a fan of Downton Abbey, I hope you will take a look at where I’ve taken Julian Fellowes’ characters and let me know if you like what I’ve done with their lives.

Let’s keep this iconic couple alive in fanfiction.

msmenna

https://www.fanfiction.net/s/12865038/1/Passage

[free-for-all-fics]

Obscure Characters List - Female Edition (A-M)

Obscure Characters I love for some reason - Female Edition (A-M). (By obscure I mean characters that have little to no fanfic written about them. Not necessarily characters nobody’s ever heard of.) Don’t ask me to explain why. UPDATED: I had to split these up into separate posts because tumblr is being a butt about post length or something and won’t let me add more to either list idk.

A

Abigail Bishop/Emily (Let’s Scare Jessica to Death)

Agnes (Downfall Redux)

Agony Symbiote (Marvel Comics)

Alice (Apsulov: End of Gods)

Amanda Ripley (Alien Isolation)

Amelia (Underworld)

Anastasie “Tasi” Trianon (Amnesia Rebirth)

Annalise, Queen of the Vilebloods (Bloodborne)

Anna Valerious (Van Helsing 2004)

B

Baroness Clarimonde Catani (The Vampire Happening)

Belle (A Christmas Carol)

Black Canary/Dinah Drake/Dinah Laurel Lance (DC Comics)

Blackfire/Princess Komand'r (DC comics/Teen Titans)

Blind Mag/Magdalene DeFoe (Repo! The Genetic Opera)

Brides of Dracula (any version)

C

Cala Maria (Cuphead)

Calendar Girl/Page Munroe (DC Comics/The New Batman Adventures)

Catherine Chun (SOMA)

Charlotte Elbourne (Vampire Hunter D)

Charlotte Thornton (Nancy Drew, Ghost of Thornton Hall)

Chrissy/Mildred Pratt (Deadstream)

Constance Blackwood (We Have Always Lived in the Castle)

Cora (Devil’s Carnival 2)

Countess Marya Zaleska (Dracula's Daughter)

D

Dana Newman/The Angry Princess (Thirteen Ghosts remake)

Dolirra (Fariwalk: The Prelude)

Doll Face (The Strangers)

Dollisa (Fariwalk: The Prelude)

E

Edith Finch (What Remains of Edith Finch)

Elisabeth Williams (Maid of Sker)

Elizabeth Eilander (Rusty Lake Paradise)

Elizabeth Shelley (Frankenhooker)

Empress Tihana (Amnesia Rebirth)

Erin (You’re Next)

Estella (Great Expectations)

Esther/Leena Klammer (Orphan 1 and 2)

Evelyn “Evie” Carnahan O' Connnell  (The Mummy series)

F

Faith (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)

G

Ginger Fitzgerald (Ginger Snaps)

Glorificus “Glory” (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)

Goody (Vampires)

Grace Le Domas (Ready Or Not)

Gwendolyn “Gwen” Grayson/Royal Pain (Sky High)

H

Harper Thornton (Nancy Drew, Ghost of Thornton Hall)

Hel (Apsulov: End of Gods)

Hero (Much Ado About Nothing)

I

Imogen “Idgie” Threadgoode (Green Fried Tomatoes)

Iris (30 Days of Night)

Isabelle/The Bride (Spookies)

J

Jane Doe (Autopsy of Jane Doe)

Jayme/Red (Blood Fest)

Jennet Humfrye/The Woman in Black (The Woman in Black)

Julia/Subject Three (TAU)

Juliette Waters (Sylvio)

Justine Florbelle (Amnesia the Dark Descent)

K

Kate Drew (Nancy Drew, The Silent Spy)

Kathy Rain (Kathy Rain)

Katrina Van Tassel (Sleepy Hollow)

Kissin’ Kate Barlow (Holes)

L

Lady Maria of the Astral Clocktower (Bloodborne)

Lady Sybil Crawley/Branson (Downton Abbey)

Lamia (Stardust)

Laura "Lorelai" Wood (Lorelai)

Laure Richis (Perfume: The Story of a Murderer)

Laurie (Trick ‘r Treat)

Leech Woman (Puppetmaster series)

Lena (Underworld: Blood Wars)

Lily (V/H/S Amateur Night/SiREN)

Lily Munster (The Munsters)

Loretta, Knight of the Haligtree (Elden Ring)

Lucille Sharpe (Crimson Peak)

Lucy Billington (The Invitation)

Lunar Princess Ranni (Elden Ring)

M

Malenia the Severed (Elden Ring)

Marni Wallace (Repo! The Genetic Opera)

Mary Katherine “Merricat” Blackwood (We Have Always Lived in the Castle)

Mel (Nancy Drew, Warnings at Waverly Academy)

Melanie Ravenswood (Phantom Manor)

Melina (Elden Ring)

Millicent (Elden Ring)

Milk Maiden (2001 Maniacs)

Mirror Queen (The Brothers Grimm)

Miss Brixil (Level 16)

Moder (The Ritual)

[fortitudina]

               * MUSE LIST.     ------      Angel Aalbiel  /  Abigail Walker  /  Aeshma Daeva  /  Archangel Akrasiel  /  Alec Lightwood  /  Anastasia Grey  /  Anastasiya Schmidt  /  Anastasiya Zakharov  /  Anatola  /  Angel Aoife  /  Angel Arik  / Divine Goddess Asherah  /  Asmodeus Morningstar  /  Angel Aziel  /  Angel Bina  /  Briar Morningstar  /  Caassimolar  /  Castaelar Aleanundlin  /  Charlotte Holmes  / Chloe Decker  /  Cillian Brockhurst  /  Clary Fray  /  Dr Conrad Hawkins  /  Cooper Hemming  /  Daisy Johnson  /  Dantanian Daeva  /  Dorothea Morningstar  /  Dr Eliza Campbell  /  Ella Lopez  /  Elua D’Angeline  /  Esther Morningstar  /  Angel Evangeline Stewart  /  Faolan Lowell  /  Archangel Gabriel  /  Genevieve Hart  /  Dr Guinevere Voigt  /  Angel Hali  /  Prince Hamon of Zion  /  Harv Wilson  /  Hermione Granger  /  Iris Russell  /  Isabelle Lightwood  /  James Bond  /  Dr Johanna Carter  /  Archangel Jophiel  /  Julian Barnett  /  Kate Bishop  /  Kol Mikaelson  /  Leon Andrews  /  Lien Xao  /  Life  /  Dr Lily Morningstar  /  Lily Evans-Potter  /  Dr Linda Martin  /  Prince Liron Strix  /  Louie Morningstar  /  Love Pena  /  Luna Lovegood  /  Lyall Mortis  /  Angel Malachi  /  Lady Mary Crawley  /  Mother Mary ~ Jesus’s momma  /  Mary Queen of Scotts  /  Massimo Torricelli  /  Matilda Demiurgos  /  Matt Casey  /  Matthew de Clermont  /  Mazikeen Smith  /  Archangel Michael Demiurgos  /  Mycroft Holmes  /  Nancy Perez  /  Nancy Wheeler  /  Demon Ornias  /  King Paimon  /  Q  /  Quinlan  /  Archangel Ramiel  /  Rebecca Barnes  /  Rhonwen Harrow  /  Romy Willow  /  Rosier D’Angelus  /  Ruby Moran  /  Rudi Miller  /  Sherlock Holmes  /  Demon Sitri  /  Storm Demiurgos  /  Angel Temeluchus  /  Tito Giordano  /  Tommy Shelby  /  Uinseann McConnell  /  Waverly Earp  /  Wynonna Earp  /  Yahweh ( God )  /  Yelena Belova  / Zarya Demiurgos.

[rubykissed]

⭐ " @timeguardians

I love your Peggy Carter SO much. Throw her at Diana Prince, I beg!

Other muses you could throw Peggy at:

Evelyn Johnson (Pearl Harbor 2001)

Anastasia Romanov:

Matthew Crawley (Downton Abbey)

Lucy-Grace Roennfeldt (The Light Between Oceans)

Hannah Roennfeldt (The Light Between Oceans)

Isabel Sherbourne (The Light Between Oceans)

If they are from the WWI Era into the 1920s, throw her at them.

Rose from Titanic is the same as above.

Melody:

Baelfire Jones (AU OUAT)

Wendy Darling (Peter Pan)

Captain Hook (Peter Pan)

Peter Pan (Peter Pan)

Emma Swan (OUAT)

Princess Jasmine (Aladdin 2019)

Ariel is the same as above.

If you have an idea not listed here, please throw it at me, I'd love it!

[elegaeica]

rapunzel, inspiration taken from persinette, grimm fairytale, and petrosinella. primary. isabel may. arya stark, book & headcanon based. by request. fc tba. audrey fulquard, little shop of horrors, off - broadway revival & headcanon based. by request. joy woods. julia trojan, bandstand. by request. fc tba. amy march, little women, book & 2017 miniseries inspired. primary. kathryn newton. sybil crawley, downton abbey, canon divergent. by request. jessica brown findlay. cora hale, teen wolf, heavily canon divergent & headcanon based. primary. diana silvers. euphemia "effie" elmstone, dead boy detectives original character. secondary. ellie bamber. cat / courier six, fallout: new vegas. primary. dewanda wise. josie / the lone wanderer, fallout 3, canon divergent. primary. cailee spaeny. mary / sole survivor, fallout 4. secondary. lucy boynton. commander laura shepard, mass effect, canon divergent. primary. christina chong. sura tabris, dragon age, headcanon based. primary. sophia brown. amaya surana, dragon age, headcanon based. primary. anna sawai. aliena brosca, dragon age, headcanon based. secondary. sophie skelton. aurelia aeducan, dragon age, headcanon based. primary. jessie mei li. naya amell, dragon age, headcanon based. secondary. zoe robins aravas mahariel, dragon age, headcanon based. primary. amita suman. mina hawke, dragon age, headcanon based. secondary. sophie cookson. victorine trevelyan, dragon age, headcanon based. primary. arsema thomas. nicolette trevelyan, dragon age, headcanon based. primary. alicia von rittberg. maella lavellan, dragon age, headcanon based. primary. ambika mod. josephine montilyet, dragon age, canon compliant. secondary. freida pinto. the artificer, doctor who, original time lord character. primary. phydra, baldur's gate 3, seldarine drow of eilistraee. secondary. no fc. daefina roxana reaegis, dungeons & dragons, astral elf aberrant mind sorceress. secondary. holliday grainger. diana casta, dungeons & dragons, aasimar glamour bard & savior of elturel. secondary. riley hemson. sophie hatter, land of ingary trilogy / howl's moving castle. by request. nicola coughlan. george fayne, nancy drew, video games based. by request. ruby cruz.

[omegahs]

#OMEGAHS. independent, private & selective multifandom multimuse written by nan (22, she/her). rules. muses listed below. affiliated with @fals3nd and @homebehind. fantasy specific multi sideblog @faet0ld.

VIDEO GAMES

commander eva shepard. mass effect, paragon, canon divergent. fc: kyl.ie bun.bury.

let'yana calirix. mass effect, original ardat - yakshi character.

kat / courier six. fallout: new vegas. canon divergent. fc: au.brey pla.za

isabel "isa" / the lone wanderer. fallout 3. canon divergent. fc: mar.isa dav.ila

frank hardy. based on her interactive's nancy drew games, some inspiration taken from the books. fc: chr.istopher bri.ney

joe hardy. based on her interactive's nancy drew games, some inspiration taken from the books. fc: ga.vin casa.legno

tara wylde. wylde flowers. fc: pris.cilla quin.tana.

laura abrams. stardew valley farmer. fc: kate sie.gel.

TELEVISION

sybil crawley. downton abbey. canon divergent. fc: jess.ica bro.wn find.lay

the artificer. doctor who original timelord oc. affiliated with @fals3nd's captain. fc(s): emi.lia clar.ke, av.an jog.ia, oli.via coo.ke, za.we ash.ton.

rose tyler. doctor who, headcanon based. fc: bil.lie pi.per

donna noble. doctor who, headcanon based. fc: cat.herine ta.te

amelia pond. doctor who, headcanon based & canon divergent. fc: ka.ren gil.lan.

cora hale. teen wolf, headcanon based & canon divergent. fc: adel.aide kan.e

LITERATURE

amy march. little women, book & 2017 miniseries based. heavily critical of the 2019 film. fc: kathr.yn new.ton.

blue sargent. the raven cycle. fc: ta.ylor rus.sell.

[redrikki]

My Series Masterpost

Short and to the Mr. Pointy - (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) Collections of drabbles set in each season.

Short and to the Mr. Pointy - Season 1

Short and to the Mr. Pointy - Season 2

Short and to the Mr. Pointy - Season 3

Short and to the Mr. Pointy - Season 4

Short and to the Mr. Pointy - Season 5

Short and to the Mr. Pointy - Season 6

Short and to the Mr. Pointy - Season 7

Xander and Eshu's Wacky Road Trip - (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) While searching for Slayers in Africa, Xander hires an unusual guide, or, the god of the crossroads gets a new toy.

At the Cross Roads Well Met - The god Eshu meets an interesting man in a market in Benin or, for sixteen palm nuts, Xander hires an interesting guide. (Xander Harris, Eshu)

Goddess in the Water - Xander and Eshu find romance, a mystery and car trouble on the road, just not necessarily in that order. (Xander Harris, Eshu, OCs)

Jennifer Hailey, Vampire Slayer - (Stargate SG-1/Buffy the Vampire Slayer crossover) All Lt. Jennifer Hailey ever wanted was to travel the galaxy via a giant piece of alien technology, make some world changing scientific break throughs and show up Major Carter. Too bad destiny had other ideas.

Hailey Thinks - All Lt. Jennifer Hailey ever wanted was to travel the galaxy via a giant piece of alien technology. Too bad destiny had other ideas. Now she has a whole lot to think about. (Jennifer Hailey, Xander Harris)

The Lost Tribe - Being a Slayer never meant much to Lt. Jennifer Hailey, but between a crisis off-world and a prophecy, it may mean a lot. (Jennifer Hailey, Jack O'Neill, Daniel Jackson, Sam Carter, Teal'c, Xander Harris, Buffy Summers, Willow Rosenberg, Rupert Giles, OCs)

Houses Alike In Dignity - Downton Abbey Hogwarts fusion AU

Snakes and Lions - In Thomas, Jimmy finds that courage isn't exclusive to Gryffindors. Now if only he could find some himself. (Jimmy Kent/Thomas Barrow)

The House Elf and the Lioness - "Honestly Sybil, he's practically a house elf," Mary exclaimed when she caught them kissing in the stacks. (Sybil Crawley/Tom Branson, Mary Crawley)

The Owl & the Son-of-a-Squib - Matthew and Isobel Crawley were quite shocked when an owl swooped down and dropped an envelope on their breakfast table. (Matthew Crawley, Isabel Crawley, Mary Crawley, Joseph Molesley)

Queen of Lower Chelsea - (Ultimate Spider-Man comics) Jessica Drew may not be a real girl, but she's trying to build a real life.

Stop Clicking Your Red Heels - Jessica Drew takes a shower and her first steps into her new life. (Jessica Drew. OCs)

And Everybody Used to Call You Lucky - Peter can afford to do the right thing, but Jessica doesn't have that luxury. (Jessica Drew)

Fingertips that Might Ignite - Peter is straight like a straight thing. Jessica isn't sure what she is. (Jessica Drew/Johnny Storm, Jessica Drew/OFC)

Bursts of Stardust - (Star Wars films) Collection of short stories.

Bursts of Stardust 1

Bursts of Stardust 2

Bursts of Stardust 3

Second Verse - (A Song of Ice and Fire) Theon Greyjoy leapt off the walls of Winterfell and ended up in his own past. Second verse, same as the first, a little bit louder and a little bit worse.

Second Verse - Theon Greyjoy leaps from Winterfell's walls and ends up in his past. Can he save the Starks from themselves? More importantly, does he even want to? (Theon Greyjoy, Stark Family)

Little Bit Louder, Little Bit Worse - In a world where the War of the Five Kings goes very differently, Asha Greyjoy sails north to retrieve her brother. (Asha Greyjoy, Theon Greyjoy, Robb Stark)

Tango Verse - (Supernatural/Dollhouse crossover) Sam decides the best way to help his brother recover from Hell is to wipe his memory. It does not go as planned.

Obliviate - Sam paves a road with good intentions and some advice from Harry Potter. After all, Hermione erased her parent's memories to protect them. How is it any different if Sam does it to help Dean? (Sam Winchester, Ruby)

A Tango Dance Dance Revolution - The latest Active is a tall white guy with green eyes, pouty lips and ridiculous cheekbones. Wiping him is just another day at the office. (Topher Brink, Dean Winchester)

Two to Tango - Nothing stays buried; not memories, not guilt, not the demon apocalypse. They always claws their way back up to bite you in the ass. (Dean Winchester, Sam Winchester, Castiel, Ruby, Adelle Dewitt, OCs) Abandoned WIP

[katiecanblog]

Downton Abbey au where the Crawley's are an Italian-American mob family, Grantham is called "Boss" instead of "Lord", they host people in their hottub, Matthew and Isabel came over from Italy, and aside from family drama, their main conflict is from rival mob families.

[ocmerunaway]