#ben tallmadge one shot

[amberlynnmurdock]

New Love, New Haven

Chapter Thirteen: Relations between Wethersfield and New Haven

Pairing: Benjamin Tallmadge x Original Female Character

Summary: Ben and Sadie communicate through letters, but keeping up is harder than it seems.

A/N: I hope you enjoy this update, friends! We're approaching the final chapters, which makes me sad, but we have some fun chapters coming soon!!

New Haven 

End of August 1773 

Ben’s first letter came as soon as a week after he left town on horseback for Wethersfield. Sadie snatched the letter from her father’s hands. Her sprint caused her father's hair to sway over his forehead. 

“Aye! No running in the tavern,” Richard scolded, like Sadie was still a child. She didn’t care. Sadie sat at the end of the bar and ripped the wax-sealed envelope open. Suddenly, the noise of the tavern drowned out as Sadie began to read the letter in Ben’s voice. 

Dear Sadie, 

I’ve finally settled into my temporary home. I just arrived tonight, and after unpacking, I immediately wanted to write to you so I could send this letter by morning. You would love this abode I’m in. It’s small, but it’s got a lot of character. There’s a fireplace for when winter comes around. I have a big enough bed—anything is better than the small cots Yale made us sleep on. At least my desk is large; perfect for grading papers, reading, and of course, writing to you. I think I’ll find myself doing that a lot here. 

I miss you so much. I’ve not gone a day without thinking of you and our last night spent together. It’s on my mind, constantly. I better stop thinking of it now. 

I hope you’re enjoying the books I’ve left for you. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on them. I know we may be apart, but my heart feels like it’s with you.

Class starts next week. I can’t wait to tell you about my students. 

Yours, 

Benjamin Tallmadge 

Sadie read and re-read the letter, feeling her heart jump in her chest. This letter easily made her day. She tucked it in her dress’ front pocket and continued the rest of her shift, with Ben tucked in the back of her mind. 

☆☆☆☆

That night, Sadie sat up at her desk and began to write her response to Ben. 

Dear Benjamin,

I’ve been re-reading Shakespeare’s sonnets. They remind me of you. Reading them makes me feel like there isn’t such a distance between us. 

I can hardly wait to hear about how your first class went. I’m sure by the time you receive this letter you’ll already be on your fifth or sixth class. I know your students will love the way you teach, like I do. It’ll be hard for them to be distracted because of how captivating you are. What will you be teaching first? You forgot to mention in your letter. You know I love every detail when it comes to learning. 

Your dwelling sounds cozy. I can imagine how it looks. Your desk is large? Similar to the size of the desks at Yale? I bet you and I could fit both our work on there and work side by side. Then again, maybe we wouldn’t get much work done if I were there with you. 

I’m sorry if that was crude. 

I haven’t stopped thinking of our last night together, either. It makes me yearn for our next one even more. 

It’s tough without you and Nathan. I can’t lie. But it’s nice to have Genny here. The tavern is still busy, but I always half expect to see you and Nathan bounding through the doors.

Until your next letter. 

Yours, 

Sadie Hale 

Sadie’s eyelids began to feel heavy. She placed her quill in the ink pot and blew out her candle. Her room felt so very dark, and very cold, without Ben. She laid her paper out for the ink to dry and tucked herself in bed, thoughts of Ben lulling her to sleep. 

☆☆☆☆

For many weeks, it looked like that first week without Ben. 

Like clockwork, Sadie checked the mail for his letter every week or so and she wouldn’t hesitate to write a response that same night. She loved to receive his letters—it felt like it was Christmas each time a new one came in. What would Ben have to say now? What new updates? How was school going? How was the weather in Wethersfield? 

His letters have been positive for the most part, but it wasn’t until Sadie received his last letter, in October, that things started to feel as uncertain as the night he left. 

Wethersfield 

October 1773

The ocean was so dark blue that it was almost black. The sound of the water running up the shore and then falling back into itself put Ben in a trance. His feet dug into the sand. The night was completely still. The color of the sky matched the color of the ocean, save for the stars that twinkled. He looked up at them as they formed a new constellation, one he hadn’t seen before, one he thinks he’d name Sadie. He’s alone. 

And with a jolt, Ben wakes up in his cot, a thin sheen of sweat on his forehead. His tiny room was hot and stuffy. Leaving a window open hadn’t helped at all. Ben kicked the thin sheets off of him and groggily stomped over to his desk. He was sure he was supposed to be up in a few hours for school. The next class is about basic algebra. But Ben’s not thinking about the lesson plan or what comes after that—his thoughts, and now he supposed, his dreams, were consumed by Sadie. He was struggling more than he thought by being so far away from her. 

Rubbing his eyes, he sat at his large wooden desk and lit a candle. 

Ben stared at the flame for a few moments before he searched for his ink, quill and paper. He began to write a letter to Sadie. 

Dear Sadie, 

It’s the middle of the night, and I’ve just woken up from a dream about you. I was at the beach alone. I felt completely in solitude. Something about the environment made me feel safe like you were there. And the stars in my dream formed a constellation I hadn’t seen before; it probably doesn’t exist, but when I looked at them, I thought of you. And then I woke up, to this reality of you not being here with me. I miss you terribly. I can hardly wait for the winter. I’m going to try my hardest to see New Haven before I go to Setauket. 

Tomorrow’s class is on algebra. I can’t teach them the complex subjects we studied together yet. When I do, I’ll take what I’ve learned from you and incorporate it. I think you’d love my pupils, Sadie. They are young and bright; eager to learn. 

I miss you, terribly. Please know that I think of you every waking moment—even when I dream. 

Yours, 

Benjamin Tallmadge 

Ben sighed as he laid the paper out for the ink to dry. He pulled out an envelope and laid it next to the letter to serve as a reminder in the morning to drop it at the post. He wished he had something of Sadie to hold close: a piece of clothing, a chain, one of her bows…anything. Anything, he wished he could hold close to his heart. But he had nothing. Nothing but his memories and whatever they translated to in his dreams. 

Feeling a wave of exhaustion hit him again, Ben returns to his cot. It’s so hot, he doesn’t bother throwing his sheets over again. 

New Haven

November 1773 

It was a misty morning in New Haven, and Sadie was preparing for the day ahead. 

New Haven felt much quieter these days, without Nathan coming by in the afternoons. Everything in the town was still the same: she saw the same shops open early, and the same townsfolk coming to the tavern at night, but with Nathan and Ben away, the changes felt like a big ripple in a small pond. Sadie kept to herself and did her chores quietly around the tavern. She helped her father carry new ale barrels up the stairs. She cleaned, she served, she smiled. 

She missed Nathan dearly. Sadie kept the thought of him constantly, like carrying a satchel on her shoulder. 

And of course, her thoughts always wandered to Ben. But she tried to only think of him at night before she was about to go to bed. It was too painful to think of him during the day—Sadie wouldn’t be able to get anything done if she did. So, she saved him for the night, because the night reminded her of him in so many ways: their late-night secret meetings, meeting him down by the door to go to the shore, that last night they had in her bed… 

She laced up her boots and got up from her bed. Before she went downstairs to prep the bar, she paused at her desk, which had Ben’s most recent letter displayed. She picked up the paper and read it again. It was about a dream he’d had of her. Yes, it was November now, and Ben’s most recent letter was from mid-October. 

If Sadie’s predictions were right, he should have received her response right before the end of October. But now it was mid-November and almost the holidays. Nathan would be coming back to New Haven in a few weeks, and Ben? Well, she didn’t know, because she hasn’t heard from him. 

For a long time, Sadie convinced herself it was because he was busy. Taking on a new teaching job came with a lot of responsibilities. He’d have to keep up with a lot of students and grade a lot of papers. And Sadie knew Ben’s work ethic—he practically threw himself into his work, letting each subject and lesson consume him, he must’ve gotten too busy, Sadie thought. Maybe his lessons got mixed up with his letters. Maybe he was planning on writing her a large update and was saving it for now. Maybe, maybe, maybe. 

Maybe he met someone else. 

She shooed the thought away as soon it crept into her mind. 

Sadie felt her heart wrench as she read and re-read his letter. She was transported back to her late summer evenings with Ben, trading sweet nothings and poetry, his notes…for a moment, she wasn’t pretending like she didn’t miss him. But then she heard her father call from the bar, and Sadie placed the letter back down and went downstairs. With each creak of the step, an image of Ben faded from her mind. 

Cleaning the tavern was a good distraction from it all. And it got even better when people began to trickle in, asking for ale or water. Asking Sadie what it was like to be without her brother. Saying they missed Nathan’s shining smile, too. Genny came in around noon, to Sadie’s delight. 

“I’ve got great news,” Genny beamed as she met Sadie at the bar. Sadie leaned over and rested her head in her hand. 

“Go on!” Sadie urged. 

“My father said if we wanted to, and your father would allow it, we could spend the spring next year in Middletown,” Genny said in a hushed tone. “You know, to study the herbs and learn about healing.” 

Sadie opened her mouth to reply but found herself at a loss for words. Well, what would happen if Nathan came around then? What if she needed to help her father here? What about Ben? How long would they stay there? 

“I…”

“Sadie, what is it?” Genny asked. “I thought you’d be excited. Middletown! A new place.” 

“It’s not that I’m not excited. It’s just that I have so much going on here in New Haven. What if I leave and Nathan decides to come back for a weekend? I’ve got to see him. And… you know, there’s Ben,” Sadie explained sheepishly. She felt a dent in her heart when she explained her grievances. 

Genny gave her a sympathetic look. “Sadie. You can’t place your life on hold, waiting for other people. Of course, Nathan is your brother—you’ll see him. But Ben? Has he written you back since October?” 

Sadie’s face darkened as she looked away, embarrassed. “Not yet.” 

Genny shrugged her shoulders. “This would be a good opportunity for us both. Get us both out of here. The boys did it! Why can’t we?” 

Sadie bit her lip. You can’t place your life on hold. 

“Well, all right. I guess the reality of it is what makes me nervous. I’ll speak to my father tonight. Perhaps, he may be more convinced if your father came in to talk about it. Over ale,” Sadie added. 

Genny smiled, “Perfect. I’ll see if he can tonight.” 

After Genny left, Sadie felt another dent form in her heart; things were changing and there wasn’t anything she could do about it. 

☆☆☆☆

Later that evening, Sadie sat at her desk, contemplating bringing her ink and quill out to write a letter to Ben. Since when did she feel so unsure of herself, when it came to Ben? Would it be strange to send another letter after he hadn’t replied to her? The last she checked, Ben was writing about dreams of her and telling her how much he missed her. What had changed? 

After much convincing, Sadie told herself that the purpose of this letter would be to inform Ben of her new ventures starting next spring. She’d be in Middletown, with Genny, studying healing. Middletown was not that far from Wethersfield and Sadie hated the hopeful feeling this thought brought. 

Dear Benjamin, 

I haven’t heard from you in a while. I hope everything is all right in Wethersfield. I can’t wait to hear about your lessons and pupils. I think I wrote that in my last letter. Are you okay? I’d love to hear from you. It’s been a while. 

I’m writing this letter to inform you that next spring I’ll be staying with Genny and her father in Middletown. We will be studying healing and herbs. After her father came in to talk to my father, he was convinced it would be a good learning opportunity and agreed to let me go. Of course, what’s heavy on my mind is what happens to us. But there’s not much I can do if I don’t hear from you. I can’t say no to an opportunity like this. 

If it’s meant to be, it will be, you and I. 

I’m holding on dearly to what we have, but I can’t hold on forever, Ben. 

I really do hope I hear from you soon. 

Yours, 

Sadie Hale 

A tear fell down Sadie’s cheek, splotching the word “Yours.” But Sadie didn't notice when she folded the letter and slipped it into an envelope. 

[enbylestat]

There are snakes in the garden

There are snakes in the garden.

The beginning.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/48398125/chapters/122071795

Pairing: multi, but, it is character driven.

Fandom: TURN: Washington’s Spies.

Rating: T - teen and up.

Summary: a series of 4 TURN one shots (not canon compliant), vignettes expanding on character and giving retrospective and character progression the show lacked.

Excerpt: He mourns for Peggy, of course, as any logical man would. But he decides to face it all, like the lion amongst snakes in a savage garden he is. “Names and ranks,” Benjamin Tallmadge says. Sitting at the desk, typical of as he knows well enough now, aides to General George Washington. “I don’t think so,” André retorts. With no hint of defeat in his voice. No, he saw the young man Benjamin Tallmadge as a challenge, an equal, and a foil in this war. A war he’d lost, but a war he wouldn’t lose face in nonetheless…

Chapters: 1 2 3 4

TURN - playlist.

American revolution playlist.

Archive of our own.

Link of links.

[enchi-elm]

On this day, September 5 in 1779, the historical Benjamin Tallmadge and Caleb Brewster were briefly united in person—a rare event, contrary to their portrayal in Turn: Washington’s Spies. The occasion was an attempt to oust a nest of Loyalist marauders—privateers—who were menacing the northern coast of Long Island in the very area where Abraham Woodhull was conducting his spy activities. The Loyalist “freebooters”, as Tallmadge describes them in his memoir, were encamped near a fortified post, the garrison Fort Franklin, on a “promontory or elevated piece of ground next to the Sound, between Huntington Harbour and Oyster Bay”. The site is known today as Fort Hill Estate.

Tallmadge and Brewster and their men (a detachment and Brewster’s whaleboat fleet) arrived on Lloyd’s Neck at 10 pm after a five hour row across the Sound and set about attacking the encampment. Tallmadge’s plan was to take them quietly—without a single shot fired—so that once the marauders were dispatched they had a clean shot at the nearby British garrison. They captured almost the whole band, with only a few escapees, one of which fired a shot that alerted the British—their chance at the garrison was foiled. Still, Tallmadge, Brewster, and their prisoners departed quickly after destroying all the boats they could find. They rowed back to Connecticut (presumably another five hour row, argh) and arrived before sunrise without the loss of a single Patriot.

244 years later, on this day, September 5 in 2023, I finished my Tallster fanfiction “You’ve Caught Me Between Wind and Water”. I did not include any pirates, to my great regret. This story is my longest project to date and one that’s very dear to me.

I was pondering its 1-year completion anniversary—today, September 5, 2024, and whether I should write an epilogue for the story. What would they be doing a year after the events of Wind and Water? Bonus, what would they have been doing in that September of 1779 specifically? Imagine my tickled surprise, dear Readers, when the historical record delivered such serendipity. (Big BIG thank you to @ollieoliveoboelo22 for giving me photos of Tallmadge’s memoir and Alexander Rose’s book on the passages in question).

Of course they’re together in real life. Of course they’re ousting pirates. Of course they’re performing a raid.

And—the garrison! As readers may or may not know, taking down a garrison head-on was the planned finale for much of the time I spent writing the story. (It’s not subtle, there are a lot of hints.) In the end, I ended up shifting the focus to taking down a bunch of marauding Loyalists who were terrorizing the country-side and hassling Patriots. That fictional raid ended up being a major reconciliation for Ben and Caleb, who were on the outs.

So to go back in time and read about the events of September 5, 1779, and find out that Ben and Caleb were brought together in real life to take down a garrison—and failing that, settled for taking down a bunch of marauding Loyalists who were terrorizing the country-side and hassling Patriots… well, it must be some sort of divine sign.

[turnwashingtonsbaddies]

For my last of the night - I humbly submit a plea to the Simcoe fans in the jury.

Should Rogers win this round, he stands against Benjamin Tallmadge, the only person in this bracket who can truly go toe to toe with Simcoe. But we can band together and fight, and if we can take Benjamin out... Well, you have a clearer shot at victory. As much as I would love it, Rogers has little chance of making it far. I don't care if he wins, I just want Ben to loose. So from one insane man enjoyer to another... I ask you, stand with me, and vote for Rogers.

‼️big picture bracket strategy from the rogers camp‼️

the art of war? more like the art of the hot bracket

[ollieoliveoboelo22]

Turn Week 2024: Day 3 - Different Time Period.

Now is the perfect time for me to bust out the College Band AU that's been invading my head for over a year. All because the sax TA looks like Benedict Arnold from TURN... I kid you not that's the origin. Is this a stretch for the prompt? Maybe but you get it anyway. Shout out to @phociian for jumping on my AU and rolling along with it.

There are a lot of characters, so I'm gonna cut down the list quite a bit for TURN characters. I also made most of them music majors because if I have to suffer music theory and aural skills, so do they.

George Washington: The Director of Bands

Everyone loves him, they show up to practice for him. His office hours usually have students in there just to chat and get some good advice. Also conducts the Wind Symphony.

Horatio Gates: The Assistant Director of Bands

The band director everyone loathes and makes them consider quitting. Usually a group of students decides to protest if they find out it's just him for a rehearsal and will get milkshakes or chug milk to get sick during rehearsal.

Lafayette: Drum Major

He was an international student his first year and decided to full on move and transfer to the United States. The Washington's usually host him. Has a ton of money, but everyone thinks he's broke because he only eats ramen.

Benjamin Tallmadge: Horn/Mellophone

Music and History Major. Absolute history nerd, but we love him for it. He's either usually in the library researching or in the music building practicing. Due to his friends he knows all the drama in the band but he wants nothing to do with it.

Caleb Brewster: Percussion (tenors)

Music Major. Caleb does gigs all over town at bars and clubs, usually with Jack Custis. He's only really in college to keep playing because he loves it. He's roommates with Ben, and their apartment basically became the designated hangout space.

Anna Strong: Color Guard (flags)

Journalism Major. Anna overhears a lot of gossip from the color guard. She's the reason why Ben knows so much. That and Abe usually causes some sort of drama that she has to drag him out again with the help of Mary.

Alexander Hamilton: Trumpet

PoliSci and Music Major. The very epitome of a trumpet personality. Along with John Laurens, they get up to far too many shenanigans. Including taking shots during a performance on stage.

Peggy Shippen: Majorette

Communications Major. Peggy has a long distance boyfriend, John Andre, at their rival school. Usually a good bit of jokes are made, but they're a very cute couple and take pictures together at the rivalry football game. The only reason she came to this university was because her father insisted on it. Though she transfers going into her Junior year.

Benedict Arnold

Saxophone TA (the thing that started it all). Arnold is really good at running the sax section through rehearsals and they're one of the best on the band. Even argued with Gates when he was crossing the line with comments towards students. And due to the music department (Congress) he left and went to the masters program at their rival university. (Still working on the flaws on this plot line)

Yes I know there are people missing, I haven't gotten to them as I have a lot on the aides and the other generals. I know not all instruments were covered, they are in my master doc. Yes, the specific details come from real life events. Thank you for reading

[tallmadgeandtea]

Hi! SS&SP Chapter 11 is finally finished! With a shit ton of editing and little time to do it, of course, but here’s a snippet from a fun future scene where Lizzie and the boys get into shooting shenanigans, and Benjamin… well… you’ll see:

“You should demonstrate your special move, Bennyboy.” Caleb Brewster said, his mouth curled in a sly grin. He moved the pistol between his hands as if it were a plaything, wooden and ineffective, the bullet a ball tied to a string.

Elizabeth redirected her attention back to Benjamin. “Oh?”

He glanced downward, “I don’t think that’s necessary, Caleb. Would be a waste of bullets.”

“What are you referring to, Mr. Brewster-”

“Eh, Lizzie, what did I say?”

“Caleb.”

“I once saw him shoot a man while flying on his horse like a devil outta hell.” Caleb replied. “Quite a sight to see if you ask me.”

“She didn’t,” Benjamin said curtly.

The rest of the group’s interest piqued, the conversation lulled, nonverbal deliberation hanging in the air with the gunsmoke. “I agree with Brewster,” Hamilton, of course, with an eerily similar scheming grin— a gunner’s grin. “I haven’t seen a good cavalryman perform since my last raid with Harry Lee.”

Benjamin scoffed, a low, warning laugh. “I’m not performing, Hamilton.”

“Let him go.” Tilghman looked over his shoulder, past the tree line and towards Headquarters. Were the sentries watching, or was she seeing things? He shook his head, smiling gently at Elizabeth. “His Excellency doesn’t want any shooting that isn’t drills, let alone a pistol from horseback.”

“You’re wrong about that, Captain,” Caleb clicked his tongue, “we’ve been at it for an hour and he still ain’t sent one of those men to come and scold us.”

Tilghman bristled at the casual rebuttal. “Don’t push your luck.”

“It’s my speciality.”

“I will push mine,” Lafayette finally entered the petty argument, “His Excellency listens to any explanation I offer. Is that not the case, gentlemen?”

“Always is!”

She ignored the rising argument over Washington’s favoritism. She looked back at Headquarters. Was he watching? Standing at his office window with his hands behind his back, distracting the others from copying orders? Would he bring it up at dinner?

If they let me stay, I’ll defend them. If worse came to worst, she’d show Washington her shot. And she’d tell him Benjamin was the reason why. She still felt his strong hands on her arm, perfecting her stance, the way he whispered in her ear, the way she turned around and her chin almost grazed his shoulder, the way he smiled when they saw the bullseye.

The bullseye wasn’t on the target, though.

“Major Tallmadge?”

“Miss?” Benjamin’s voice struck down the argument.

“Will you do it for me?”

He considered it- he considered her, searching her expression in the lull between speaking, she tilted her head to the side, giving him a soft, inviting smile. Clever girl, Elizabeth. She tried convincing herself it was wrong to use what she learned in Philadelphia on him.

Useless.

“…If you really want me to, Miss Walker.”

Elizabeth and Caleb exchanged the weapon. She held the pistol. Was the handle still warm? Still pulsing with their shared energy? “I do.”

Benjamin nodded, resigned. “Just a moment.”

He took the pistol from her and tucked it into his belt. He left the group, grabbing his helmet and cradling it on his side. He disappeared from the clearing and transformed into a silhouette until he reached Headquarters.

Caleb inhaled sharply through his teeth, shaking his head. He folded his arms. “He just can’t say no to you, Lizzie.”

Lafayette and the aides raised their eyebrows, but didn’t say anything. Elizabeth caught Tilghman’s expression change— changed to his curious, almost apprehensive look from earlier. Take a step back, Ben, he’d said. She hadn’t notice they were practically- she couldn’t call it an embrace. Yet there was no other word she could use.

Even though he technically outranked him, Benjamin had listened to the order.

[meerawrites]

Happy STS! But oh no! One of your characters has been stabbed! What chaos does this bring about? Who's been stabbed, who did the stabbing, who yanks the sword out without thinking, etc.? ♥️

Just for the sake of chaos… I’m gonna say, Benjamin Fisher. Or, vampire and slow corruption arc Benjamin Tallmadge from TURN: Washington’s Spies. Not just stabbed, Ben’s favourite horse was shot from under him and he lays dying on the battlefield, in Yorktown, Virginia, in 1781. The date is October 1st, 1781, the siege is halfway over and the Americans are winning. It is pure bad luck.

Audrey would simply say, “No good deed goes unpunished.”

Audrey screams. Audrey tries real hard not to have a mental breakdown. Audrey swore she’d never turn him. But this isn’t fair to either of them, and the war is not over, Benjamin insisted on finishing what he started. Ethics and future consequences can go to hell. He may hate her for this, but this is bigger than either of them at this point…

Audrey stops hesitating. Like a French Valkyrie come to judge the worthy, she rides out to where Benjamin lays dying.

Audrey doesn’t need to drain him, the bullet and the redcoats blade did that just fine.

Moments before Ben is “lost”, just enough to briefly glimpse the other side, who knows what he sees, Audrey doesn’t believe in heaven or hell, she is an atheist, for now.

Benjamin is turned into a vampire in a last ditch attempt (though hypocritical) by Audrey to not lose him. The war doesn’t end until 1783, America wins. To the shock of the 18th century world stage, it only took 5 years of war and French support. (naval blockade in the West Indies and a sea battle in India, which America wins).

Benjamin asks himself: “what is the cost of my soul?”

Note: this is just basically Fisher’s origin story, or how he got vampirism. I have no intention of ending this fic, that way. I may be a morally complex bi, but, Benjamin Tallmadge would have a religious Protestant mental breakdown if that happened. Yay for original characters!

[knowltonsrangers]

Hi! Anon from last night here;)

So, I may or may not have irreversibly fallen in love with a whole score of historical men, and your genius writing is the primary cause.

I am currently squealing over the CUTENESS overload that is the Benjamin Tallmadge one shot, where the reader is from the modern world and is stuck in colonial america. It is kinda a novelty concept, since usually it is the other way around (don’t get me wrong, your Nathan Hale series is top tier). The confusedTM reader and even more confused Ben- it just sooooo good. And the plot presents so many other opportunities- if you ever have the inspiration to turn it into a series- I am so down!

Hello there!!

ahh!!! Thank you so so much!! I am very well known for starting series’ and ultimately abandoning them, but I’m always willing to leave room to expand on them in the future. or even comeback with a new chapter!

Ideal Location chapter 15 has been written for a very long time, it’s just a matter of me not hating what I wrote for it so much…haha! and getting it edited

but thank you for your love on Theoretically! It’s really a fun write, I wouldn’t mind keeping it going! and no worries, you’re not a idiot! I am also very inconsistent with titles so I think just recently this series got a proper name, lol.

this makes me so happy to hear, I’m actually crying. it means so, so much to me! 🫶

[annastrxng]

since you write Anna and Sarah Phillips could you tell me how their views on Arnold compare and contrast?

Anna's first recollection of hearing about Benedict Arnold came on the heels of his service at Saratoga. He had been around at the outbreak of thew war in Lexington with Ethan Allen. But the papers first heralded him a HERO after Saratoga- so a little bit after October 1777. Her first impressions of him were truly quite favorable given how easily he threw the British into disarray. The papers also touted his bravery at Quebec and Lake Champlain. This opinion is bolstered by words sent from Tallmadge. Ben Tallmadge's opinion of him was also one of shock and reverence.

That favorable opinion began to wane during his occupation in Philadelphia. It is there, that his ego and bad attitude began to take lordship over his life.

Then in late 1780, when Abigail reveals Arnold's treachery and the plot about West Point, the BETRAYAL she felt was INTENSE. Surely, it was nowhere near as intense as what General Washington must have felt, having been closely confiding in the man. But it sent Anna into a PANIC mode. Everything she fought so dearly for was now placed in HORRIBLE JEAPORDY.

After the war, she could NEVER think of Arnold in the same fashion. Though he had served quite honorably at the start, his reputation was well and truly sullied. If she had SEEN him again, she would have likely taken her SHOT.

________________________________________________________

Sarah wasn't too KEEN on rebels after being bound, gagged, and kidnapped by Colonel Ethan Allen and his Green Mountain Boys. She saw him as brassy, unrefined. So when Arnold appeared, ostentatious and on horseback and speaking quite excellently in the Kings English, she FELT a certain level of kinship. He was the kind of man who reminded her of her father.

She sat down to conduct a personal interview with him. Colonel Arnold was eloquent in his approach, almost diplomatic and quite amiable despite her prodding. He was protective of her which, earned a good deal of respect.

May 10th 1775, Sarah decided to accompany him on his attack of Fort Ticonderoga. There she witnessed first had his valor. And though Arnold defects to her side, his treachery never sat quite right with her. Not after he extolled the virtues of the rebels.

On the other hand, let it be said, she abhors Arnold's wife- Peggy Shippen. (not pertinent to the inquiry at hand, but have that hot take anyways)

[vocesincaput]

@pyratezlife (Ben Tallmadge)

Even as they had approached the battlefield, something deep within John's gut had told him that something was wrong.

He had received information from one of his spies on the amount of soldiers the continental army had in the area and where they would be positioned. But the Major still felt something wasn't right. The source hadn't failed him before but there was something that he couldn't put his finger on that felt... off.

If only he had listened to his gut.

The Continental Army had been hiding and waiting whilst only a few were on the battlefield to keep up the illusion that everything was going as planned. As soon as John and the others had been on the field, attacking the planted men, the enemy had struck. It didn't take long for them to get completely overwhelmed, John being shot twice in the process (once in the left shoulder & once in the left side of his abdomen) and losing consciousness.

Waking the next day, John found himself being tended to by a medic. It didn't take long for him to realise that he was in the hands of the Continental Army. When he had tried to sit up, searing pain shot through him and the medic eased him back down onto the bunk before resuming tending his wounds. The Major looked down as best he could, taking note of how well they were being stitched given he was one of their enemy.

Almost a full day passed and John took the time to watch and take in everything he could see. He was surprised by how well he was being treated. Never having assumed the worst of them himself, he was still appreciative of the basic respects he was given. Making sure to thank the medic who was seeing to his wounds and those that brought him food and water.

It was later in the day when John was sat at a table in a modestly decorated room, awaiting someone he had been told would want to ask him a few questions. He hadn't bothered to ask anymore, knowing that he wasn't owed anything else. They had been kind enough to someone from the other side, he was grateful for what little he had received already.

Glancing down at himself for a few moments, John was also grateful they hadn't given him clothing that was overtly of the Continental Army (his own uniform ruined by the gunshots and his own blood). It had been quite a while since he had been injured and John had almost forgotten how difficult it was to sit properly without causing too much discomfort.

He was just shifting his position in the chair to try and ease the pain when the door to the room opened and he raised his head. Instinctively straightening himself in his seat. Jaw flinching as the only sign of the pain it caused him.

"You must be the one come to question me. Major...?"

[nomdepen]

Pen had loved Ben when he walked through those doors, but the more he spoke, the more he took part in her mother's trivial volleys, the more she knew it to be true: she loved him. Even in his defense, he was gentle. While Portia pummeled him with trick questions, eager to catch him in one of them, he dodged each bullet valiantly and with utmost grace. But Portia wasn't a woman so easily bested.

"Well, at least you're honest about that. But you must understand, Mister Tallmadge, that a marriage is about more than just love. I'm not sure how they do things in Connecticut or Long Island, but in London, marriage is an economic proposition. Love is secondary to the allegiances formed."

Pen's cheeks flared brighter, but not with embarrassment. Hearing her mother speak so bluntly to her was customary, but hearing such harsh words towards the man she loved was infuriating. A part of her wondered if it would truly just be easier to elope with Ben, to disappear in middle of the night and have the freedom to love whoever she wanted. But she knew it was impossible. Ben was loyal. To his friends, to his job. To his morals. Although Penelope was sure she could manage to convince him to flee with her if she truly wanted to, it wouldn't be the life either of them yearned for.

"A tutor? For the Bridgertons, you say?" Portia shot a glance back at Penelope, an expression of surprise. An expression reading: 'why didn't you say so before?'

"I was trying to tell you before, Mama. Ben is a teacher and an excellent one, too." She didn't dare meet her mother's gaze as she blurted out her praises. Instead, she kept blue eyes pinned to the swirling designs on the wallpaper.

His further declaration of his intentions made Pen's heart soar. He was a hero in her eyes, but not one of the battlefield. She hadn't known him as a soldier, but instead as a sweet romantic with a heart she wished to cherish until her own ceased to beat. She would give him all the children he wanted. She would spend every day of her life giving him the entirety of her heart. They could open a school together, somewhere to share their passions with the newer generations. They could fill their own home with children and love and laughter, and create their own happily ever after far from the expectations of the rest of the world.

But Portia didn't see life through rose colored glasses like her daughter did. Despite Ben's determination, his words only earned a mere harrumph from Lady Featherington.

"I'm not sure how much Penelope has told you of our plights in the past when it came to men and money, but my late Archibald was terrible with finances. His gambling habits nearly cost us everything and when he died, it was I who kept the family afloat in such tumultuous waters. The Lord Featherington after him also tried to swindle his way into the ton's pockets, and failed. Despite these hardships, however, I have managed to keep the Featherington name out of the mud. So, tell me why I should entrust the future of my family to a patriot who profits off of war?"

Each words that fell from her mama's lips left lacerations on Pen's heart. She wanted desperately to defend Ben, to stand before him and be his shield against Portia's vile accusations. But she knew it would not change anything. If anything, it would make her mother realize just how desperate she was and would only prove to make things worse.

"Mister Tallmadge," Lady Featherington continued, folding her hands neatly in front of her, her posture smug as though victory were in sight. "You seem like an intelligent man. And from the high praises from Penelope, I'm sure you are. But I consider myself an intelligent woman, as well. One that does not make deals merely based on the words of men, but instead by the actions of them. So, let's say I approve of this union," At her mama's words, Pen's eyes widened, all her attention going to her mother's hypothetical proposal.

"What then? Where do you intend to live, you and your new bride? Do you plan on attending the functions expected of a family of our position? And how soon do you plan to produce an heir?" At her mother's questions, Pen's cheeks burned a bright red and her mouth went dry. "Surely, you know that whichever of my daughters produces a son first is set to inherit the title of Lord Featherington, and will be expected to run the estate. If Penelope were to bear your children--"

"Mama!" Pen jumped to attention, her words urgent and pleading. Whatever happened, Pen knew it was more likely that Philippa was going to inherit everything anyway. She was already wed and she would surely become pregnant with the new Lord Featherington any day now. In Pen's mind, she hadn't even considered herself a contender, let alone a competitor. She had no idea how exactly a woman came to be with child, but she had a feeling it wasn't something that could be done overnight. And Philippa already had a head start.

"This line of questioning is ridiculous and irrelevant." As the cracks in her patience begin to splinter, Pen's voice picks up speed. "Ben and I do not wish for anything more than a happy union. One that will, quite frankly, take place with or without your blessing." She spares a glance at Ben, hoping he wouldn't be too terribly mortified by her declaration. But it was true. She was intent on marrying him one way or another and all this interrogation would decide was who would be invited to the wedding. Her heart raced and she no longer had the strength to bite her tongue. Benjamin was a true gentleman, as always, but Pen was tired of being polite. Not when the rest of her life hung in the balance.

"Philippa and Prudence are free to fight over the estate. All I want is to marry Ben, Mama. I don't care about anything else. Not titles, not property, nor money. Just him and I, and the family we decide to make, when we decide to make it. So, please, Mama," Finally, Pen's voice lowered to a whisper as she took Portia's hands in her own. "Say yes."

Little by little, it felt as though the air were being siphoned from the room. Each time Benjamin attempted to offer a reply, Portia continued onward, driving the sword of her tongue before he could even think to dodge each proverbial thrust.

"I am from Wethersfield, Connecticut," he affirmed, "but before that, I grew up in Setauket, Long Island. My father is a well-renowned reverend, so the wealth in the family assuredly comes from his side."

Trailing off, he glanced back toward Penelope before confessing, "In the way of returning, I...am unsure. A mere month ago, I had every intention of returning home -- but a mere month ago, I did not have Penelope." With a shy little smile, Benjamin explained, "When you have everything you need within your very heart, it doesn't much matter where you reside. I love my father, absolutely, but I feel that if it becomes an issue, he would be willing to relocate in his retirement. He has a few friends in London."

Portia, unfortunately, seemed far from appeased. She started circling him like an impatient lioness, setting her sights upon the inevitable kill. Benjamin remained ramrod straight in his posture -- in many respects, her appraisal was much like being within the army, only instead of appeasing a strict overseer, he was now in danger of displeasing a sour-faced mother of the ton.

In reference to her question, Benjamin shook his head. "No, I wasn't seeking a wife," he affirmed. "In truth, I wished to escape the states for a while...with the war still so close in my mind, I didn't want to remain where the memories were so prevalent. And with my father's British connections, he was able to secure me a position with the Bridgertons." He winced, all too aware that Portia would be displeased. "I tutor young Gregory. I received a generous education at Yale, where I could have easily followed my father into the clergy, but something has always drawn me to teaching...so I followed my heart. Much as I am now."

Far too afraid to face Penelope, lest he falter, Benjamin's heart sank like a stone in the sea, because Portia was right: what could he offer the Featheringtons? What he did, he did for love -- for the love of children -- and he knew such romantic ideals would be spurned nearly as much as Penelope's love of literature.

Steeling his shoulders, Benjamin looked Portia in the eye and declared, "I'm unsure of how well veterans are received here, madam, but back in the states, it's considered quite the honor to serve one's country. Although I avidly avoid favoritism, it does come up here and there, and parades and events have been held in our honor." He exhaled. "In short, I receive both a pension for my service -- so I will always be guaranteed some form of pay -- and the accolades of being a war hero... Though I am no hero. I will always do my duty, no matter the cost. And right now, my duty is to cherish your daughter."

Opening and closing his hands, Benjamin finally glanced over at Penelope and caught her gaze. He needed to persevere for her, and with a flutter in his throat, he managed a smile before continuing, "In answer to your earlier question, I do value love more than I do dowries, but I would never presume to insult you with my romanticisms. Still, in addition to my healthy pay and the respect of most citizens, I'm afraid the greatest asset I have is love. I will never abandon your daughter -- I will always adore her -- and in the end, isn't that truly what matters? Don't we all wish to be loved and treasured for the rest of our days?"

[amberlynnmurdock]

New Love, New Haven

CHAPTER THREE: Lumine Lunae Ductus 

Pairing: Ben Tallmadge x Original Female Character 

Chapter Summary: Ben and Sadie meet on Chapel Street for the exchange of his astronomy notes. 

Author’s Note: Enjoy this fluffy/filler chapter!!! 

Archive of Our Own Link

September 1772

All morning, Sadie stayed up in her room, reading some of Nathan’s old Latin notes to quickly refresh her mind on the dead language. The last words Ben said to her kept ringing in her head, and she couldn’t get the way he looked at her out of her mind. How did he mean that?

It was thrilling to Sadie to be meeting Ben in secret. Thrilling, in a way that, she’d never had to hide anything ever in her life. She was always in her parents’ sight, and they always knew what she was doing, and whom she was hanging with… mostly because Nathan was always with her as a child. Now, Sadie, being a bit older at the ripe age of 17… felt a stronger thirst for independence and for making her own decisions. She agreed to meet Ben simply because she could—and no one could stop her. And no one had to know.

She also had to admit to herself she was curious about Ben—just a little. Part of her was excited to retrieve his notes, the other part was looking forward to seeing him alone. She didn’t want to ponder on it too much—he is her brother’s best friend. That would be foolish of her to think anything other than him simply being nice.

Richard woke up a bit chamomile-hungover, and Sadie was happy to find out he would keep his promise of letting her off the night. That means she can immediately start reading whatever notes Ben gives her instead of waiting for the next morning. Still, Sadie offered to help set up the bar at least, to make up for purposefully making her father sleep.

☆☆☆☆

It felt like the afternoon dragged on. Sadie impatiently waited for it to be four o’clock. It was only an hour until then. She begrudgingly looked at her sewing kit that sit tucked away in the corner of her room. Mostly, because she was forced to use it, taking up time that could instead be used to study. She huffed as she looked at it, crossing her arms in annoyance—just the presence itself offended her. But her mother insisted that Sadie take it with her while working at The Ordinary. Her mother feared she would take up on masculine traits, helping tend a bar, instead of doing more feminine things.

Sadie, reluctantly, got up from bed and moved to the mirror that hung behind her door. Grabbing a brush, Sadie ran it through her soft hair and began to put her hair in a low bun. She reached for her kerchief and tied it carefully over her head.

When Sadie was done doing her hair, she grabbed her long, black cloak and threw it over her shoulders, popping the hood over her head as well. Grabbing her satchel from a hook, Sadie carefully walked downstairs. Her father was prepping the bar.

“Where are ya off to, young lady?” Richard inquired with an eyebrow raised.

Sadie took her hood down. “I’m off to the shops downtown to get some food. Maybe I’ll stop by a friend’s on the way. I still have the night off, right?” Sadie asked, a bit nervous.

“Yes, yes,” Richard answered, “it should be a slow night. Be back for supper. Then, the night’s yours, tot. Stay out of trouble.”

“Thank you, Pa,” Sadie gave her father a kiss on the cheek before going outside and meeting the brisk September day.

Sadie threw the cloak hood over her head as she turned the corner of the street. The closer she got to Chapel Street, the more nervous Sadie felt. It’s not like they were meeting to do anything unlawful—Ben simply was going to give her his astronomy notes. Why did it feel like she was doing something wrong?

When Sadie finally reached Chapel Street, she saw Ben standing in front of a brick building, leaning against the wall. He didn’t have his tricorn on. He was wearing dark slacks and a dark brown coat, which made his lighter, golden features stand out a bit more. His hair was tied back and his hands were behind him, holding an envelope. Sadie, suddenly feeling her heart pick its pace up, continued her way toward him.

Ben looked thoughtful, Sadie observed. He was patiently looking to his left. Sadie wondered what was on his mind. She wondered if he, too, felt nervous and felt as if something were wrong with this. If it were nothing, they wouldn’t have spoken in secret last night. If it were nothing, Sadie wouldn’t be hiding this from her brother—and he, his best friend.

Sadie quietly approached Ben, not wanting to startle him. When she was just about to be next to him, she took her cloak’s hood down and tapped Ben on the shoulder. He did get startled, and Sadie giggled softly, as Ben tried to compose himself and placed a hand over his chest.

“Sorry,” Sadie mumbled with a smile, “I thought I’d be too early, but turns out you are. I hope I didn’t keep you waiting too long.”

“It’s all right,” Ben replied with a sheepish smile, “I didn’t wait long at all.” Ben, for a moment, took in Sadie’s appearance. Perhaps it was the dim lighting of the tavern, but now, Ben felt like he could see her every feature under the afternoon sun. Her hair was lightly golden brown, completely opposite of Nathan’s blonde. Two strands of her hair framed her heart-shaped face, and it was hard to deny the resemblance to her brother since Sadie also had prominent cheekbones, but softer and—lovelier, was the word Ben settled on. Her eyes were a deep chestnut, and Ben felt Sadie holding his gaze carefully. Mesmerized, Ben almost forgot why he was there.

“Oh, here are my astronomy notes,” Ben revealed the envelope he was holding behind his back. Sadie looked down and smiled at the small package. It was then Ben noticed the satchel across Sadie’s chest. She unclipped the bag open before taking the envelope from Ben’s hands. Ben watched her closely as she placed the notes carefully in her bag and clipped it again.

Sadie met his eyes and Ben instantly smiled, pleased that he was the reason for her smile. Well, his notes, he supposed.

“Thank you so much Ben,” Sadie feted, curtsying her long skirt a bit. Ben bowed slightly forward to the young Hale.

“My pleasure,” Ben replied. He smiled at her sweetly, and Sadie threw the hood of her cloak over her head again, to hide the rose in her cheeks.

Sadie couldn’t wash the feeling of disappointment off her chest—but, why? This was all she came here for. There was nothing else to be said or done, and Sadie should be on her way, but she lingered in Ben’s presence—and it didn’t seem he was in a rush either. Not knowing the right words, Sadie took a deep breath and shrugged her shoulders.

“Well, I better be on my way back,” Sadie uttered arduously.

“Alright, then,” Ben reacted. How was he the top in his literature class but now fumbled with his words? Ben mentally slapped himself in the face, unsettled by the way Sadie’s presence made him so unsure of himself.

Sadie turned on her heel and began to walk up the path she had come down. And Ben, stood there, watching as she walked farther and farther away. And now, finally, Ben found the words he wanted to say. He should’ve told her that his notes on the moon phases were his favorite, but if anything was illegible, he would be happy to rewrite them more clearly as his handwriting gets sloppier the faster he writes. There was also a section for planets which he thought Sadie might really enjoy—when did his words escape him?

And why did he feel a sort of tugging at his chest, the farther Sadie walked up the path, closer to her destination but farther away from him? Just as her shrinking figure was about to turn the corner, Ben couldn’t stop the shout from his mouth.

“Sadie, wait!” He called.

Sadie immediately stopped in her tracks, turning around to see Ben shuffling up the path toward her. Sadie cocked an eyebrow, curious why Ben had called her name so urgently. When he finally caught up, Sadie could see the red in his cheeks from walking so fast. She squinted her eyes at him, finding a bit of humor in his awkwardness.

“Are you—working the tavern tonight?” Ben asked her.

Sadie, taken aback by his question, repositioned her stance so she was fully facing Ben. She shook her head softly.

“No, actually. I’m not,” Sadie answered.

“Well,” Ben began, but suddenly uneasiness filled his chest. What was he thinking? This was his best friend’s younger sister—two years younger, to be exact, and he was about to go out on a limb with his next few words. Ben looked away for a moment, fighting with himself, but if there’s one thing about Ben Tallmadge, it was he did, what he wanted, simply because he could.

“There’s a section in my notes on the phases of the moon. Have you—have you ever been to the planetarium at Yale?” Ben asked, beginning to catch his breath again.

Sadie, completely engaged in his question, shook her head. “No, I haven’t even stepped foot on the campus.”

“Well, if you are… comfortable with it, I would love to show you the planetarium and see what the moon phase will be tonight. There’s a telescope in there, and it would give us a great view of the moon,” Ben offered to her. By the look on Sadie’s face, he knew it was a yes.

“Absolutely! Oh my—are you sure? Will we be allowed?”

Ben grinned, shrugging his shoulders a little. Sadie should’ve known better—anything that Nathan and his friends ever did could never be allowed. Did they do those things anyway? Certainly. And Sadie, despondent about having some sort of schooling experience, was going to say yes at any opportunity that presented itself—without question.

Ben would figure out the why behind his offer later. At face value, he truly wanted to help Sadie and offer her a chance at experiencing something at Yale, and if he could do that, then why not? But there was no denying that below the surface Ben was curious about Sadie and wanted to get to know her more. There was nothing wrong with having a friendship with her. A friendship he knew he would have to keep a secret, however.

“It’s not technically allowed, but hardly anyone is ever there late at night. I’ll make sure we are not seen,” Ben assured her, his blue eyes boring into Sadie’s. The thrill, Sadie’s thoughts from before echoed in her mind—this was the thrill she had been seeking her entire life.

Sadie nodded, accepting Ben’s invitation. “Shall we meet here again and—oh, how will I get back home?”

Ben couldn’t believe she would ask a question like that, “of course, I will see you home, Sadie. It’s too late for you to be out by yourself.” And your brother would have me by my neck if anything happened to you.

“Well, alright then. I’ll meet you here at—“

“11 o’clock. That’s when the moon is the brightest, making it perfect for viewing,” Ben told her.

Sadie nodded. And with that, she was off back to the tavern.

☆☆☆☆

The walk to Yale with Ben was quick, and Sadie trailed closely behind him on the streets as he lead the way to the campus. The closer Sadie got to Yale, the more stunned she felt as she saw the building in all its grandeur. Her eyes widened at the sight of the building. A few candles lit up some windows, and the streetlights gave the building a soft glow. It was surreal to be right in front of her dream school, and not see it only through her bedroom window a few blocks down.

“This way,” Ben whispered as he lead her to a side door of the building. Sadie quickly entered the door, Ben, right behind her. He shut it carefully and nodded to the wooden steps in front of Sadie.

“Up that way. I’m right behind you,” Ben whispered. Sadie, with her cloak hood on, nodded and began to ascend the steps. There were about five flights of stairs they had to walk until reaching the planetarium.

Sadie was beginning to get tired when finally, she heard Ben say that this was their stop. Ben leads the way down a hallway. Sadie looked outside the gigantic windows in this hall. She saw The Ordinary tavern as she passed by, and she smiled to herself. So that’s what it looks like from here. It was nice to be on the opposite side for once. For so long, Sadie had only dreamed of coming into the Yale building, and never had the chance to go inside. But now, because of Ben, she was here. Besides giving her his notes, she was thankful for that alone.

“Here we are,” Ben stated, talking at a normal volume now. He held the wooden door open for her and Sadie stepped inside the room, and gasped immediately.

If she thought the windows in the front were huge, they were nothing compared to the windows here. It was like they stretched from the bottom of the floor all the way to the ceiling, and even curved as they reached the top. Sadie pushed her hood off and looked at the ceilings with her mouth slightly open. She could feel Ben’s presence right behind her. He chuckled.

“That was my reaction when I saw this room for the first time, too,” Ben stated. Walking past her, Ben went to the front of the room and took a sheet off of what was revealed to be a telescope.

“Viola,” Ben whispered, adjusting the telescope and tilting it a bit. Sadie, still mesmerized by the view, walked toward Ben.

He was focused, looking through the lens of the telescope. Sadie watched as his hands fidgeted with the outside settings. She watched carefully as the veins in his hands became more prominent, and how gentle he was with his fingers as he touched the knobs. Sadie felt herself staring at his hands a bit long. She couldn’t tear her gaze away.

Ben pulled back and saw that Sadie was a bit startled.

“Um,” Ben cleared his throat, “the notes. Did you bring them?”

“Oh, yes,” Sadie answered, shuffling through her bag. “I got a chance to read a good chunk. You have such nice handwriting, Ben. Uhm,” Sadie shuffled through the papers and Ben watched in amusement. “If I am correct, tonight’s moon is a waning crescent,” Sadie stated.

Ben nodded, “that, it is. Come over here,” he gently urged with a nod of his head.

Sadie, following his command, walked over and stood in front of the telescope. Ben stood back slightly but leaned forward.

“All you do is, peep your eye in that hole—“

“I think I know how to look through a lens, Benjamin,” Sadie chided, giving Ben a smirk. He blushed, unsure if it was because of the use of his full name, or if he was slightly embarrassed he might have offended her intelligence. “But I do need help with how to focus it,” Sadie continued. Ben, perking at her inquiry, almost made a move to help, but stopped.

“May I? You can look through, but I will guide your hands… if that’s all right,” Ben slowly asked her. Sadie, thinking nothing of it, nodded.

“Of course.”

She slightly bent over to meet the lens and held her hands out for Ben to guide. She thought at first it would be a simple tap here or there, but when she felt Ben’s chest graze her back, and his arms hover over hers, Sadie felt her heart grow ten times its size. But, trying to play it nonchalantly, Sadie focused on the dark sky and held her breath. He placed his right hand over hers and moved it to the front of the scope.

“Now,” his voice was close to her ear, and it nearly sent shivers down her spine. “Let me know when you see the moon.” Ben gently swiveled the telescope with her hand. As he did this, he placed his left hand on top of her and motioned for her to twist a side knob.

“There!” Sadie exclaimed, seeing a blurry, white blob. “But it’s not focused.”

“Twist the knob until it is,” Ben whispered. With her left hand, Sadie kept twisting it until suddenly, the moon looked like she was looking it right in the face. By her gasp, Ben knew that she had focused on it. He smiled to himself, enjoying her raw reactions to things he had grown used to now. It made him appreciate the opportunity he has had, but at the same time, his heart went out to Sadie and for that matter other young women, who have been robbed of this opportunity.

“Lumine lunae ductus,” Ben whispered, this time, intentionally in her ear.

Sadie slowly turned back, her shoulders hitting Ben’s chest. He locked eyes with her for a moment, startled by the closeness of their faces. He could truly see all her features now. Sadie, breaking the slightly tense moment, smiled.

“Guided by the light of the moon,” she translated, her eyes sparkling from the moonlight. Ben nodded with a smile.

“Precisely,” he answered.

After a moment, Sadie turned back to the telescope as Ben now stood completely, watching her. He almost regretted inviting her here—it wasn’t his place to offer her experiences. Nathan was doing that already by letting her have his notes. Earlier, on the way to the planetarium, he grew more guilty for going behind his friend’s back with each step. Regretful, and thinking that maybe this was a mistake, Ben almost swore he’d never invite her out again. But seeing the look of pure delight on Sadie’s face from seeing the moon—made the risk all worth it.

“Waning crescent,” Sadie said aloud. “Now, a full moon must be quite the sight with this. I can’t believe how close the moon looks, and how beautiful and breathtaking it is. Your turn,” Sadie pulled back from the telescope and looked at Ben with eyes as big as the moon. Ben found it thoughtful of her to offer him a chance to look—he had done this plenty of times before. Tonight was for Sadie. But to appease her, Ben bent down as she stepped away.

He smiled as he looked through the lens—the sight of it really never gets old.

Sadie plopped her bag on a random wooden table and began to spread out Ben’s notes. Ben still looking through the telescope, now moving it around to look at the stars, felt that Sadie wasn’t standing behind him anymore. He moved away from the lens to see her reading his notes. He walked over to the side of the room to light a lantern and bring light to her.

She caught his eye and smiled as a thank-you as he set the lantern down.

“This is truly astounding information,” Sadie said aloud. She pointed to his drawing of the phases of the moon. “And these—the constellations—must be so beautiful to look at by the ocean. I knew the stars had a pattern, but I didn’t know their names or how to find them all,” Sadie thought aloud. Ben nodded.

“I agree. They are definitely more beautiful by the shore. You can see them even without the telescope,” Ben replied. “It won’t be hard to draw them all out.”

For a short while, even though Sadie read through his notes already, Ben still guided her through them. They both eventually found chairs to sit in as Ben pointed to different pages of his notes. The constellations, the moon phases, the planets—Ben carefully explained his notes in more detail than what was written, and Sadie wished she had brought her own notepad and quill to write down what he was saying. It was insightful, and the way Ben took his time to explain everything to her kept Sadie engrossed. Not to mention that Ben had a soothing voice, and when he really got into explaining things, his slightly awkward demeanor seemed to vanish. He spoke with conviction—and he had a little bit of wit.

Sadie crossed her arms and looked at him for a moment. She was feeling a bit sleepy now. She couldn’t help but think Ben looked quite handsome in the soft glow of the lantern. Ben, holding her gaze, didn’t break the contact. It was Sadie who finally did, and she began to collect the papers carefully.

“I appreciate you showing me this place, Ben,” Sadie said truthfully. She placed the papers in a neat stack and slid them over to Ben. Ben slid them right back.

“I want you to have them,” Ben said with soft urgency. “Please.”

Sadie smiled and put them back in her bag. It was almost past midnight now, and Sadie knew it was time to go back before her father knew she was gone. As if reading her mind, Ben offered to walk her home.

☆☆☆☆

When Sadie approached the back door of the tavern, she was just about to walk inside when she turned around quickly to catch Ben before he left. She whispered his name, her hands gripping the door knob. Perhaps it was the late night that made her feel confident, or maybe it was Ben that brought something else out in her.

“Ben,” she whispered. As if on cue, Ben turned around. He was at her disposal. It was strange, the effect she had on him. It was hard to keep his guard up around her.  

“Yes, Sadie?” He wanted to step closer to her, but the reality of Sadie being his best friend’s younger sister, stopped him. I shouldn’t.

“Will you be around?” Sadie asked him.

Ben, feeling like his heart was on a thread and she was the one holding it, nodded his head in response. I shouldn’t be… but I will.

“I will be around. Goodnight, Sadie,” Ben hushed. He turned on his boots and made his way around the tavern, back to Yale.

Sadie, crawling into bed that night, only had a few things on her mind: the image of the waning crescent moon, the tall windows in the planetarium, and Benjamin Tallmadge.

[enchi-elm]

Apfelessig rewatches Turn: S01E03 Of Cabbages and Kings

0:01 I remember this scenery is why I fell in love with Turn. The forest shots remain my favourite, especially these breathy morning mist ones. Gorgeous.

0:20 The producers, probably: Hmm. We let two of our heroes look pretty bad these last two episodes, what with the entrapment and prisoner torture. Let's have a shot of them riding together on horses like buddies.

0:47 Whenever a previously unknown and obviously green character gets named in the episode, it's a sure-fire sign they'll be dead by the end of it.

1:54 See, like, logistically, this is where it gets really annoying trying to base historical fiction on a TV show. Is this a platoon? A company? What's the difference? Surely there should be 50 more of them? Why isn't Scott in front? Should he be? Are those men militia and what are they doing with the regulars? Are those regulars?

2:06 Spooooky. Nicely done.

2:55 Don't go up to ze castle Fort Lee!

4:40 Oh, Mary.

5:54 I love Simcoe's little wave, it's one of my favourite Simcoe moments.

6:20 Ben's malicious compliance. :P And another annoyance for the lowly fic writer. Where are you right now? Is it reasonable for Caleb to make a trip to Setauket and back? In two days? You're in New Jersey, is that nearby?

6:32 "The plan is we wait for him to post a signal, then I make contact." Yeah, by the way. How the hell would you know if he posted a signal. You're nowhere near there. Ignore me, I just actually had to make these logistics work and I'm salty about it.

6:40 Ooooh, Ben and Caleb tension. See? I feel validated in my headcanon that Ben is an insufferable superior. No consideration for the poor working courier.

9:38 "How do we know these ain't shams like the ones Tallmadge gave us?" "Because I'm telling you." So much in those two lines because honestly, I'm trying to remember now whether these are the same men who arrested Abe, gave him rough treatment, then tried to dig a bullet out of Simcoe's leg. They've been hanging around Ben this whole time, right? Where did they come from?? And then Caleb's "Because I'm telling you". I like that. 'I'm not in a uniform. So trust me.'

10:20 Shiiiiiiiiiiiips.

11:23 Abe eyeing a set of British soldiers warily reminds me a lot of playing AC III. West New York was a nightmare, they were everywhere!

11:41 What happened to Abe's mom anyway?

13:16 Wait a minute :D

16:20 Yessssss Anna, put Caleb in his place.

16:55 "To the four hinges of friendship: swearing, lying, stealing and drinking."

19:13 I had to do the math on that one, but I think it does work out.

20:21 "THIS ALE IS RATHER GOOD. AS IS THE MUTTON."

22:56 Mary/Bakerrrrrrrrr

23:51 'Well, well well. Look at you. Back in my barn.' Strongbrew <3 I miss you, I should write more for you.

27:53 Really appreciating the drama in the Woodhull family much more on this rewatch.

29:35 Oh yeaaaah the flag. I remember this now.

30:00 Heck yeah, Hessians. I actually like that they didn't translate their little chatter. It's nothing important, not really, (Although I love “Feierabend. Ich hab’ die Nase voll.” XD) but it's nice to hear soldiers chat.

34:19 Listen, Anna and Mary should have settled this whole thing in Season 1 and then gone on and been allies much sooner.

34:24 Omg they've been in stand-off all night. How does that even happen, does no one just get tired of it? It's like in the movie True Lies when a fight scene starts at night and ends in broad daylight, like, I don't believe that for a second.

35:53 "I do. I do trust you. And I need you to trust me." Oh, Caleb... And then Anna steps in to play Abe. How's that for an AU? Anna as handler? It’s not even an AU. She basically always has been, anyway.

38:45 Oh yeah. Taking the wide berth through inky waters underneath the docks to avoid soldiers on top? Yeah, this is textbook AC III.

39:22 Since I'm paying attention to day and night, we just did a bit of a time wobble there, eh? Daylight with Ben and his trainwreck, back to night for Caleb's escape, back to Ben for the wrap up.

40:09 Oh, Ben.

41:50 FAREWELL AND ADIEU, TO YOU SPANISH LADIES

[majorxmaggiexboy]

BIG pro of TerrorTurn is the opportunity for (not) DELAWARE DIVE: THE SEQUEL but the BIG cons of TerrorTurn are that while Ben has a proven propensity for Badassery and is an excellent shot in season one, not only does he have a major Despondency tendency which could take root pretty rapidly in this setting, but which could be mitigated by Caleb also being there, he’s also got that uhhhhhhh Bottle Up And Then EXPLODE tendency and that just, you know, delicate sprinkling of Go SLAM OFF On People, Authority Figure Included, When Feeling Pressed.

which uhhhh may not be the best Mix 

Ben Wouldn’t Do Great post cancelled bc i actually just remembered that he’s provably the luckiest pup in the TURN universe as far as multiple situations of Improbable Survival and failing to incur obvious consequences so weighed against the cons he’d land solidly in the top ten, maybe even top five.

[quinnverse]

Although there was a piece of her that was annoyed at his sudden interruption, Sarah couldn't help but worry for Benjamin. He didn't look sick in the traditional sense--not the way she'd seen men fall ill in the past, at least-- but he certainly didn't look well. There was a greenish hue to his expression, for sure, but she couldn't ascertain whether it was illness or envy that colored his features.

“Mister Gregory," Sarah chirped. "Perhaps you should run ahead and call for a footman?” She shot a glance at Ben before turning her affectionate gaze back to the younger male. “I can walk with Mister Tallmadge back to the house to make sure he doesn't collapse. I wouldn’t want your poor tutor to faint out of doors. I've done as much and I assure you it wasn't pleasant for anyone involved.” Her concern was sincere, albeit exaggerated for show.

Gregory didn’t seem entirely convinced, but Sarah doubted he suspected anything akin to the true nature between his teacher and his suitor. Sarah smiled up at Gregory, using her doe eyes to urge him on. She knew he cared about Ben and would ultimately listen to her for his sake. Fortunately, he had a good heart as she suspected and offered a curt nod before jogging off in the direction of the house. When he was a far enough distance away, Sarah turned to Ben, cheeks red and brows furrowed.

“Mister Tallmadge, are you sure you're feeling alright?” Sarah stepped forward and rested a hand on his arm, a caring gesture only spurred by the lack of anyone else’s attention. “You can take my arm if you feel feint. But, if you intend to empty your stomach, I would appreciate a fair warning."

Her lips attempted to quirk into a smile, but her cheeks felt heavy, unwavering beneath the daylight. She hadn't prepared herself to be in his presence today. Or ever again, really. In truth, she hadn't considered the fact that he would be the one chaperoning her visit with Gregory. It made perfect sense when she thought about it for longer than a sheer moment, but, when she'd made the plan originally, Ben had been far from her mind. All she'd thought of was Gregory Bridgerton and making him laugh.

Honoria had always told her that if a lady could make a man laugh, genuinely, then she halfway to his heart. Sarah wasn't entirely sure how much truth there was her words, but she'd seen the way Marcus looked at her cousin and it made Sarah wonder if she'd ever seen him laugh. His eyes smiled around Honoria, far more than his lips ever did, and yet she didn't doubt that Lord Chatteris was softer behind closed doors.

If Sarah were successful in her winning of Gregory's affections, she would be happy. She would prove to be a dutiful wife and do her best to make him happy. But they would never share the same sort of love that her cousin had found. They would never have the same love that Lord and Lady Bridgerton had, and that most of the Bridgerton siblings seemed to find. All she needed was a ring and security. And yet her heart still wondered if there was more in the world for her to find.

"The way you’re acting… If I didn’t know any better I’d think you were jealous." Sarah chuckled before her smile faltered and her tone grew serious. "You’re not jealous are you? Because you—" She cut herself off, not wanting to open such a Pandora's box out in the open. Even so, she couldn't help but pose the question with utter sincerity.

"Are you feeling afflicted again? Because I meant what I said before, I'm not opposed to helping you, but we can quell your afflictions without ruining my prospects of marriage. Unless... that’s what you intend to do."

She didn't want to think him capable of such deception, especially after everything she'd put him through personally. But he had promised to help her find a husband. Yes, she had refused his help, but Sarah didn't think that meant he would go against his offer.

Ill?

Oh, he certainly felt ill, what with the constant demure giggles and airs Sarah persisted in flaunting. While many aspects of the fairer sex often went over his head, it seemed that whenever it was geared towards anyone but himself, he saw their intentions plain as day. Had she ever done all this with him, he wondered? Or were their days spent at the Pleinsworth Manor mere practice for her true aspirations?

In many ways, Benjamin knew he had no right to be upset. It wasn't as if he, himself, had begun any courtship with the intention of marriage, but after Anne...well, perhaps his infatuation and brash actions were now coming back to haunt him.

Looking up from the ground, he caught Sarah's gaze and frowned. "I feel fine," he muttered. "Perhaps it's nothing more than a bit of ennui."

Her hand fell to Gregory's arm, and the gesture almost seemed intentionally inciteful. “You can always send for a footman to continue in your stead if you’re not feeling up for the task.”

On impulse, he offered what was an equally goading bow. "As you wish, Lady Sarah."

Instead of conceding a retreat, however, he straightened and fell back into step with the couple. "I'll at least see you along for a few minutes more," he muttered. "I can't, after all, just abandon you two in favor of flagging down another chaperone." His smile grew tight. "In other words, your attempts at winning a chance alone will not be coming to fruition."

Gregory glanced between them, considerably confused. He was accustomed to his tutor being jovial and warm, if not a bit reserved. He'd never seen him terse and nettled before.

"Are you sure you're all right, Mr. Tallmadge?" he asked. "We can always let you lie down at the house, if need be."

His pupil's concern guilted him, and hiding a wince, Benjamin was quick to look away. "That's very kind of you, Gregory...but I'll be fine."

What was he doing? He had no intention of staying in England, but Gregory did -- he lived here, and could give Sarah a happy, meaningful life. And in the end, wasn't that what mattered?

"I'm sorry," Benjamin said again, but this time his words were directed more at Sarah. "I won't concern you anymore... If we could just walk back to the house, I'll see about trading with the footman. He'll undoubtedly be far more equipped for this than I."

[megs-mostly-past-random-fandoms]

The Distraction

Based on this request: Hi! Could I please request a TURN fic where the reader is part of the Culper Ring and is given the job of “distracting” Simcoe, much to her dismay. Eventually though, she ends up falling for him and him for her. Until it comes out that she is a spy and then Simcoe has to decide what to do with her? Thank you!

Here you are, lovely! *Familiar Characters are NEVER mine!*

Fandom: TURN: Washington's Spies

Warnings: Angst, a little fluff??, a bit long. I may have gotten carried away.

Pairings/Characters: John Graves Simcoe x fem!reader, The Culper Ring

You stared between your two best friends and Anna Strong. "You must be joking," you stated. Anna looked ashamed while Caleb glared at Ben. Ben just kept his gaze on you. "Benjamin Tallmadge, you had better be joking!" you yelled, prompting Caleb to reach over and place a hand over your mouth. "I'm sorry, Y/N. Really I am. But Simcoe is getting too close. It won't be long before he figures out who Culper really is. He knows Anna doesn't have any real feelings for him. That leaves you to distract him. Throw him off course until we can make a plan."

The three of them looked at you with such hope that you groaned and agreed. You hated it though. You didn't even know who Culper was. "I hate you all," you muttered as they pulled you into a group hug. "If anything goes wrong at all, I will personally hunt you all down." They let you go, and scurried off. Now you had one job. Distract John Graves Simcoe, Lieutenant Colonel of the Queen's Rangers.

Finding the man was simple enough. Getting him to notice you was a little bit more difficult. You tried the more mundane ways such as "accidentally" losing your handkerchief, or nearly running into the man. Things like that. But nothing seemed to work. In the end, you knew there was one thing that was absolutely guaranteed to make him notice you. Have him be your valiant knight in shining armor.

"You sure about this, Y/N/N?" Caleb asked after you explained the plan to him. It had been weeks with no luck so you'd had Anna hang her petticoats to get Caleb's attention for you. "It's the only shot I have left, Caleb." He nodded with a sigh before kissing your forehead. "Alright then, off you go. I'll follow." Without any warning, you let out a shrill scream and took off running back to the town, Caleb hot on your heels.

You ran and screamed until you came upon Simcoe. "Help! Please!" You darted behind Simcoe just as Caleb appeared, rifle raised as if to shoot you. He pretended to freeze when he saw Simcoe before turning and running back toward his boat.

"After him," Simcoe ordered. He nearly ran as well, but you made sure you had a gently hold on his coat. Feeling this, Simcoe turned around, his blue eyes locking with your (e/c) ones. "Are you alright, Miss?" You felt yourself beginning to shake being so close to the man your friends had warned you was extremely dangerous. "I-I think so. He just appeared out of nowhere. Gave me such a fright."

"What were you doing alone in the woods?" You pretended to glance down at your feet in embarrassment. "I was gathering berries for my family. Before the winter cold comes. He came upon me so quickly." Simcoe smiled gently down at you as you finally let go of his coat. "Shall I escort you back to your home? I would not want anything unfortunate to befall you." You did your best to smile at him. You couldn't let him see how uncomfortable the situation made you. "I think that might be best. I clearly have a way of finding trouble, even when I'm not looking for it." He chuckled softly and offered you his arm.

Simcoe walked you home, promising to call again the next evening to check on you. Your father thanked him, cutting you off from doing so, but your eyes remained on Simcoe and his were on you. As he bid you goodnight, you knew you had accomplished your mission. You had his attention. Now all you had to do was keep it long enough for your friends to do what they needed.

*time skip*

After spending yet another afternoon with Simcoe(much to your father's delight), you bid him good evening and closed the door behind him. Then, you watched from the window as he walked back toward White Hall. He glanced back and you waved with a smile. The two of you had grown so close over the last few weeks. You couldn't believe you'd been so hesitant to meet him at first. John Simcoe was so much more than Anna had told you.

Yes, he was intense in everything he did. He fought for king and country with a zeal that was almost frightening. But he was so much more than that. Beneath the veneer of a soldier and monster, beat the heart of a lover. Even spending only chaperoned time with him you could tell that. He loved like he fought. With everything he had in him. After that first night when you grabbed his attention, he had begun showing you that he was still a man with desires and passions despite the war. He showed you that he was capable of a love you'd only every read about. And, to your shock, you found yourself wishing you could show him that type of love in return.

Oh, you loved John Graves Simcoe. That much was certain now, though you had no idea when it had happened. And you knew he felt something for you as well. But it was also a fact that once the man learned how it all started, he would despise you. You never thought he would find out so soon.

After a few weeks of spending time together, you found yourself sitting as Simcoe paced in front of you, his eyes wild with fury and fire that you had never seen before. In his hand, he held the message from Caleb that had been waiting for you. It felt as though the walls were closing in on you. The air in the room was thick and suffocating while the silence was deafening. You waited from him to say something.

"Joh-" you began, but he held up a hand to stop you. "Don't speak. I will not hear another of your lies." Your mouth snapped closed. He stopped pacing and turned his sharp gaze to you. "How long?" You furrowed your brows and he yelled, "HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A SPY?!" You jumped in your seat as tears began to form in your eyes. "I-I'm not a spy, Joh-Colonel. I swear. I was only meant to meet you, get to know you..."

"Distract me?" Knowing you were caught, you nodded. "I swear, I never spied. I know nothing about your movements nor Washington's. I was only meant to keep you busy for a couple weeks. Instead I found myself enjoying your company more than anyone else. That wasn't part of any plan. Developing feelings for you was never part of the plan. I was never meant to fall in love with you, John."

At that, Simcoe froze, his eyes still wide, but this time in surprise. For a moment, neither of you spoke. You once again felt like you couldn't breathe as you waited for him to reply. Anything besides the dead-silent stare he was giving you now.

"You're lying. You're still trying to distract me. To keep me off my guard." You shook your head. This time, the tears fell without permission. "I'm not lying, John. There is a lot I will lie about to protect the people I care about, but not this. I've admitted that our meeting wasn't by chance. I've admitted that I was used as a way to distract you from your hunt for Culper and before you ask, no, I don't know who he is. I have admitted to aiding the enemy, a hang-able offense. Why would I lie about this? I have nothing to gain by lying about my feelings for you. Whether you believe me or not is your choice, but I do love you."

You turned your face away from him as your tears began turning to sobs. It was all over. You had been caught and the man you loved didn't believe you loved him. The man you loved would be the one to tighten the noose around your neck.

John's POV

The fury began fleeing from him when he realized you were sobbing. Whether it was because you were scared for your life or because you truly loved him, he didn't know. But he hated hearing the shaky breaths coming from you knowing he was the cause of your distress. As angry as he was(and rightfully so), he was also a man in love who's heart had been shattered at the thought of you simply using him.

Could he send you to the noose for your crimes? They were crimes. Even though you supposedly hadn't spied on him yourself, your actions had allowed others to do so. But could he really send you to your death knowing that his heart belonged to you and you would take it with you when you were gone? Why did the thought hurt so much?

When Anna Strong had rejected him in favor of Hewlett, John was hurt of course. But nothing like this. This felt like he was shattering into a million tiny pieces. Was this what love truly was? Giving one person the power to feed or kill your joy with only a single word or action?

A particularly loud sob brought John out of his thoughts. You had produced a handkerchief and were trying to dry your eyes. With an almost unheard sigh, John pulled out his own handkerchief. He used his free hand to cup your chin and lift your face up to him. You blinked in surprise, but said nothing at first as John dried your tears, his eyes never leaving yours.

"What will you do, John?" you finally managed to whisper out after a few silent moments. "I-For once I am at a loss," he confessed, "You betrayed our king, yet you were not the ringleader. You know nothing of anyone's comings and goings, but you lied to me. You lied to an officer of the Crown and the man you claim to love. Yet, I don't know what to do."

It was your turn to sigh as one of your hands came up to gently grab his wrist. "I am sorry to have put you in such a position. I-I will do what I must. Either way, I do not suppose we will see each other again." You rose to leave, but John reached out to grip your hand. "What do you mean?"

"I must either run or turn myself in. That is the only way I will not be torturing you with this." John stood abruptly. Hearing that he may never see you again made his heart racing and all the walls guarding it to crumble. "No. I cannot accept that. No one but the two of us know, is that correct?" You nodded. John thought about your contact, but knew they couldn't say anything without implicating themselves as well.

"You cannot go. I couldn't bear it. The very thought would bring me to my knees if you were not here to ground me. Please," he declared, his voice dropping to a whisper," Please, do not leave. Stay. Stay by my side. I don't care about the lies. As long as your confession of love was not one of them."

You stared him, flustered, for a brief moment. Then, you took a small step closer and met his gaze. There was a fierceness there that made it clear you were telling the truth when you whispered into the quiet room, "It wasn't a lie. I love you, John Simcoe." In an instant, John's arms wrapped around you and he held you close. "Kiss me?" you asked. John smiled as he obliged his lady's request.

(a/n: I hope you like it! And thank you all so much for 267 followers! Tag lists for everything are open, if anyone is interested!)