#matthew de clermont au

[fearlesstarker]

pirate!matthew au; part 2 🏴‍☠️ [part 1]

Evie is annoying. but she is also smart, well-read and incredibly charming. her smile is maddening. but Evie never stops talking, and sometimes Matthew is ready to throw her overboard.

in some incredible way, she managed to charm the whole team. Each of these ruthless pirates was charmed by her smile. they all listen to her stories, ask her to sing for them every night and cook the best dishes for her. sometimes it seems to Matthew that it is not the girl who is being held captive here, but himself.

he lets her stay on the ship and be their little “Princess Luck”.

one evening, when the crew turned on an old gramophone, one of the pirates shouted: “Come on, Captain! Dance!” Matthew rolled his eyes. Evie smiled slyly and held out her hand to him.

“Come on, Captain”, she teases.

Well, well, well. Matthew smiles and gently takes the girl's hand. today he would play by her rules. but only today.

[underthewingsofthblackeagle]

Chapters: 30/? Fandom: A Discovery of Witches (TV), All Souls Trilogy - Deborah Harkness Rating: Mature Warnings: The Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: Diana Bishop/Matthew Clairmont, Diana Bishop & Matthew Clairmont Characters: Diana Bishop, Matthew Clairmont, Paula the Cat (original character), Margarethe Schmidt (original character), Marcus Whitmore, Phoebe Taylor, Hamish Osborne, Dr. Miriam Shepherd, Eric de Clermont, Gallowglass Additional Tags: Human AU, Modern AU, irregular updates, Major Character Death Mentioned Summary:

Diana Bishop's life had taken many undesirable turns. Still, she hoped she had finally found a place where she could live a quiet and unobtrusive life free from further upheaval. But then she meets a man who tests her patience and politeness.

[apinchofm]

The Shepherds

Becoming a vampire is no easy task. Marrying a de Clermont is not easy either.

But joining the infamous Shephard family - that is what unnerves Phoebe most of all.

Time's Convert AU

So this is Time's Convert but focused on Phoebe and Miriam's families. And Bertrand is alive - they have three other sired vampires. I will be intertwining flashbacks of both the Taylor family and the Shephards. Moodboard by me!

[baldwin-montclair]

Baldwin’s Nightingale (Part 20)

Characters: Baldwin Montclair/OC

Timeframe: Can safely say AU at this point, after Matthew and Diana go back in time and before they return

Summary: After escaping Benjamin (and Gerbert) with help of Rebecca’s magic, the trio arrive in Sept Tours. Questions demand answers, secrets are revealed and the newlyweds encounter a serious challenge to their marriage.

Spoiler Warning: TV Show canon S1-S2, goes AU after that, some Book of Life

Tag requests: @christi14 @poemfreak306 @pookie-cleary @hofficoffi @stormyheart326 @wonderlander594 @madamquacklemore @thereadersmuse @kynthiamoon @ordinarymom1 @fuzzyflowervoid @maybelightning @lady-lazarus-declermont @whoa-studymuch @shugensha

The Story So Far

Alisha swallowed hard as nobody moved for several seconds. Baldwin and Marcus had been interrupted mid-fight and the rest of the gathered creatures stood in reflex to the vampire brawl about to blow through the room.

“Becca,” Miyako grabbed her cousin’s arm, pulling her back, and putting herself between the bright-born and, potentially, her father.

Understanding what was possibly about to happen, Alisha joined Miyako in front of Rebecca.

Baldwin released Marcus and carefully regarded the three women.

“I see you returned my wife, safely, thank you Miyako,” Baldwin’s voice dripped with sarcasm, “I’m sure she simply got lost when this witch abducted her from the safety of her home.”

“You know she didn’t kidnap me,” Alisha answered back, causing both Miyako and Marcus to regard her with wide eyed fear, the latter even shaking his head in the hope to discourage her from provoking him.

“You know who I am,” Rebecca spoke up, drawing Baldwin’s ire from his wife and his daughter.

“I’ve known both who you are and where you have been for the last two weeks.”

“You let us think our friend was lost and in danger for all that time?” Nathaniel fumed.

“It was for their safety, the decision had nothing to do with you.”

“Stop this,” Ysabeau interjected calmly, regarding Rebecca with a flash of warm familiarity that Baldwin luckily did not see.

“That magic, I know it,” Sarah shook her head in confusion.

“You called her Rebecca.” Emily addressed Miyako.

“And Montclair called her a witch.” Sarah agreed.

“A witch and a vampire,” Marcus added, “with Matthew’s blood.”

“Papa,“ Miyako started carefully.

“Stop talking,” he warned and fixed his gaze upon Marcus.

“Take Madame de Clermont to our rooms, do whatever checks you need to do to ensure she is well.”

Marcus took a breath to argue but the look on Baldwin’s face was one he knew well.

Disagreement would not be productive.

“I’m fine,” Alisha argued, “and I’m staying with Rebecca and Miyako.”

“Miyako, escort our guest to my office,” Baldwin continued, ignoring Alisha’s protest, “I suggest the smaller reception room for your gathering Ysabeau, this one is much too draughty for warmbloods.”

“Wait-“ Sarah started but was led away by Em and followed behind by Nathaniel.

“Alisha, please,” Marcus held out his hand to gesture she lead the way and follow Baldwin’s directions.

Annoyed but with Baldwin, not Marcus, and not wishing him trouble, she relented and led Marcus and Phoebe to the turret.

Ysabeau glanced at her granddaughter then to Baldwin when the others had left.

“You know who she is?” He challenged.

“She has my blood, of course I know who she is.”

Baldwin sighed deeply crossing his arms and leant against the table.

Ysabeau recognised the exasperated, exhausted look as one frequently displayed upon his father when the strain of holding everything together became apparent.

She knew why he was struggling but would never say it as it would not be constructive.

He needed Matthew.

Alone, he was one half of the equation, the rod. Matthew was the carrot, Philippe had told her so himself, only together could they make things work.

Now, she believed for the first time that even Philippe failed to foresee the effect both of their mates would have on this equation.

“I will speak with her and Miyako, then, if you wish, you may converse with her.”

“What about Marcus and her aunts?”

“Of course Marcus can, but there is no way I’m telling my sisters about this.”

“Nor would I but I meant Diana’s aunts.”

“This is a family matter, the witches aren’t family.”

“They’re her family!” She told him firmly but carefully.

“Very well,” he grumbled and stood.

Ysabeau smiled and gave him a kiss on the cheek, leaving before he could process the caring gesture and before she could see the almost imperceptible quirk of a smile.

“Here,” Phoebe handed Alisha a glass of water from a nearby carafe, “drink this, you’re white as a sheet.”

Alisha noted her giving a concerned look to Marcus, in the process of him checking her pulse and blood pressure.

“Thank you,” Alisha took the glass gratefully, “Phoebe.”

“Vitals are fine and since I value my life I won’t ask what got you so afraid.”

“I’m not…” she trailed off as she saw Marcus regard her with doubt, “it’s best for both of us if you don’t.” Alisha agreed quietly.

“You’re concerned your husband would harm you?” Phoebe prompted.

“Phoebe,” Marcus warned.

“I know vampires have their rules, Marcus, but I won’t just sit back and let that…fucking brute abuse her.”

“Baldwin has never harmed me, and he wouldn’t,” Alisha assured her warmly, “but if I were ever in that situation I’d want a friend like you.”

“We’ll be family soon,” Phoebe corrected reaching out a comforting hand towards her shoulder, stopped only by Marcus catching her wrist firmly but gently.

“She’s been gone for two weeks, any new scent near her could set him off.”

“Your sister is a new scent.”

“No, she’s not, I can’t explain it but she seems to have my grandfather’s blood as well.”

“I thought vampires couldn’t have children biologically.”

“There’s a lot we’re still learning but it has happened before.”

Marcus looked questioning at Alisha.

“I can’t, anything I might say could change how things are supposed to play out. Only Rebecca knows what’s safe to tell. I hope you understand.”

He nodded with reluctance.

Gallowglass hadn’t answered his call when Baldwin sought to tell him about the appearance of the trio.

It was not like him but Baldwin hadn’t the time to ponder before Gallowglass called him back.

“Something happened,” Gallowglass started as soon as Baldwin accepted his call, “I followed them to Venice but they’re just gone-“

“Stop, Gallowglass,” he sighed, “they’re here, they’re safe! And you didn’t answer when I called you!”

“I was busy. How did they get there?”

“You told me about the witch, seems she inherited her mother’s abilities.”

Gallowglass heaved a deep sigh of relief and chuckled.

“I should have known that wee pissant Benjamin wouldn’t have gotten the best of Miya.”

“Benjamin,” Baldwin fumed, “Fuchs, Matthew’s fuckup that keeps on giving was near my wife and my daughter?”

“According to Domenico, who’s still alive but barely. His children are looking after him.”

“Leave now, go to the airport, my plane will be waiting for you!”

“I’m not afraid of Benjamin, or that decrepit old pope Gerbert.”

“Gerbert is working with Fuchs?”

“Aye, but I can handle it!”

“If Gerbert and Fuchs are working together it’s not safe, they probably killed Peter.”

“I’ve seen off more Christians in my time than you have, Uncle, I can handle this one.”

“I’m not arguing with you, come home!”

“You know France has never been my home, not after-“

“I know, I shouldn’t have said that. You’re right, France may not be home but we are, I expect you here by the morning.”

There was an audibly furious silence on the other end of the line.

“Yes Sieur.” Gallowglass hung up.

Baldwin sighed with relief.

Even in death, Hugh would never forgive him if he let anything happen to Gallowglass on his watch.

Shaking the thought off, he strode towards the office where his daughter and the witch awaited him.

“Is everything alright?” Rebecca prompted.

“Of course,“ he took his seat opposite them, “so just how far ahead in the future are you, exactly?”

“Eighteen years.” Rebecca answered.

She knew her uncle, he could be kind, affectionate and generous with his time but she also knew of his impatience when information was critical.

He nodded solemnly.

“I suppose I already got two thousand years, I probably shouldn’t lament a shortness of time.”

“There are things we cannot tell you about the future-“ Miyako started.

“And yet I know if I was there I’d never have let this happen.”

“Father-“

“Does this future include Benjamin Fuchs?”

Miyako and Rebecca glanced at one another, shocked.

“Gallowglass was following you, at my behest but he lost the trail when you appeared here.”

“Is he alright, did Fuchs attack him?” Miyako asked.

“He’s fine, apparently Domenico was forthcoming with his version of events.”

“He’s alive?” Rebecca asked hopefully.

“He’ll live,” Baldwin regarded her curiously, “Gallowglass will be back soon but in the meantime, you’re going to tell me why you sought out Domenico.”

“Father, your rules, as you said-“

“I am aware of what I said, but I am also aware that you already changed things by removing Catarina from her time!”

“You know-“ Rebecca started.

“No, I suspected,” he answered sharply “now I know!”

“We saved her to prevent something worse happening in the future,” Rebecca admitted, “we didn’t know then that she was your mate and our intention was not to reunite you. Obviously fate intervened.”

“I suppose Michael was someone from your time you could trust?”

“One thing changed since he won’t be there now.” Rebecca confirmed.

“Anything else drastically different?”

“Knox, he shouldn’t be dead yet.”

“But there’s not too big a jump.” Miyako countered.

“Keep going!” Baldwin warned and noted Rebecca’s anxious expression.

“Emily,” she admitted, “Knox was killed because he killed her first.”

“I’m sorry Papa, I know I’m not your Miyako-“

“Stop talking,” he warned her, “you tried to act the same and your effort was commendable, cbut I know when my daughter is behaving strangely.”

“I wasn’t behaving strangely.” Miyako frowned, offended by the insinuation her cover wasn’t sufficient.

“I can count on one hand how often you called me Papa before you visited for the wedding, I estimate you came to this time just after I sent you to Seoul?”

“Yes.” She said in quiet defeat.

“Never tell me you are not my daughter because in anywhere at anytime, you will always be my Miyako. Is that understood?”

“Yes,” she paused, “Papa.”

He smiled warmly and turned to Rebecca.

“Gallowglass couldn’t tell me much more than what you shared when you first arrived.”

“And I knew you would understand the danger of messing with the timeline, as Grandad did when Mum and Dad visited him.”

“Messing with the timeline,” he huffed, “you have done a lot of that already. Does my wife know, who she was?”

“There’s knowing and there’s remembering. She knows she was Catarina but doesn’t remember being her.”

“Alright, what doesn’t she know that I have to?”

“Something happens in the future that forced us to go back to fix things. Because it’s related to future events, we can’t tell you.” Miyako explained.

“We got Catarina to make this video before the spell, insurance policy.” Rebecca placed a memory stick on his table.

“She agreed to you taking her memory?”

“Suppressed. She wanted a complete wipe, to protect you and what she knew about our family. I convinced her to do it this way instead.”

“She’s started remembering her ability to understand written and spoken language.”

“Michael’s elixir,” Miyako agreed, “he had it created so that if anything happened to him, she would remember who she is. It wasn’t part of our deal.”

“So she’ll gradually remember?”

“In time.”

“Is she a threat to herself or to others?” He asked pointedly.

“No.” Rebecca assured

“Absolutely not.” Miyako echoed her cousin’s sentiment.

“Very well,” he confirmed, feeling slightly more assured, “I would encourage you both to remain here although I suppose I cannot prevent your leaving, given your talents.”

“As the head of this family and with my father absent I ask for sanctuary, Sieur.”

“Granted. I suppose you will enjoy spending time with your Grandmother, brother and cousin, when he shows up.”

“And you?”

“Me, what about me?”

“If you have time I was hoping you’d take me on a hunt. I am half vampire.”

“Matthew actually allows you to hunt?”

“No, he didn’t teach me.”

He raised an eyebrow but didn’t question her further.

“Marcus can supply you with bagged blood tonight, first thing tomorrow all three of us will go on a hunt. I’m curious to see my training at work.”

Alisha stood upon hearing the door open.

Baldwin entered with an expression she couldn’t read easily. He wasn’t angry but nor was he contrite.

That was fine, neither was she.

“Marcus assured me you are well.” He said simply, shrugging himself out of his jacket.

“I was safe with Miyako and Rebecca, of course I’m well.”

Baldwin was turned away from her when she heard the cuff-links drop into a bowl on the table.

“And yet,” he turned back to her, “mistake or no, they almost served you up to a sadistic little cretin”

She didn’t say anything, unsure as to what she was permitted to reveal.

“That wasn’t their their fault.”

“You’re right,” he stalked closer, “it was yours.”

[blindspot-overwatch]

Just in desperate need of blindspot fics to read new or old, any help? Or a discovery of witches

[mercurygray]

ADOW family! I just finished re-reading Shadow of Night and I’m curious - are there any other times and places in Matthew’s past (or any of the other vampires, honestly!) that you’d be interested in exploring? 

Baldwin’s daughter Miyako got name-dropped in one book and now I want to explore Baldwin in 1860s Meiji-era Japan. (Or maybe the 1600s during the Tokugawa shogunate? Difficult to decide.)

[di-elle]

ADoW AU: Creatures among us

The secret is out after the publication of Matthew, Miriam and Chris’s research. An assorted collection of covers and news website during the years 2020 - 2023, following the revelation that creatures like vampires, witches and daemons are not a myth but have been hiding in plain sight for millennia.

This takes place after the trilogy, so spoiler-ish

do not share on other SM without consent/credit, thanks

2020

2021

2022

2023

[adarafaelbarba]

adarafaelbarba september bingo

Dear everyone!

As autumn rolls around I want to try and get more creative. That’s why I want to host a writing bingo. But! I want to put a new(?) twist on it, and have the squares be moodboards … hear me out! I’ll be making about 30 different moodboards, and what you’ll have to do to participate is write something based of off one square (one moodboard).

There will be 30 different moodboards, one for each day of September. It’ll include au’s, and won’t just be straight passing relationships represented in the moodboards, but all relationships are eligible! 🥰 That being said, just cause there’s a man and woman in the pictures, you can still change the gender/identity of it to fit with your story.

The moodboards will be posted 10 a day in August so you’ll have time to plot and start writing before you can start posting in September 🥰

There will be a winner, randomly picked, who’ll get a moodboard of their choosing, made by me 🥰 The winner will be picked the first week of October 🥰

(set up inspired by @thatesqcrush ’s Bingo introduction set up)

here are some rules:

It’ll start on September 1st, 2021 and end on September 30th, 2021

Write one, ten or all of the fics. But don’t feel like you have to write them, this is a fun little writing exercise

You can write a head canon, ficlet, multi-chapter (one moodboard per fic) or a one shot. But please, if it’s longer than 500 words, put it under read more.

The fics can be fluff, smut, angst, etc if you feel like they would fit with the aesthetic of the moodboard you write for. Please remember to tag the fics with the right warnings before posting it.

Tag me when you post it, so I can keep tracks of the fics that are posted for this challenge and use the hashtag: #adarafaelbarbaseptemberbingo

Characters allowed (reader insert or oc)

SVU:

Rafael Barba

Sonny Carisi

Mike Dodds

Nick Amaro

Odafin “Fin” Tutuola

Alex Cabot

Casey Novak

Olivia Benson

Amanda Rollins

Rita Calhoun

Kat Tamin

Other Raúl Esparza Characters:

Jackson Neill

Nevada Ramirez

Jonas Nightingale

Bryan Kneef

911 / 911 Lone Star:

Evan Buckley

Eddie Diaz

Maddie Buckley

Chimney

Hen Wilson

Bobby Nash

Athena Grant

Owen Strand

T.K. Strand

Grace Ryder

Judd Ryder

Marjan Marwani

Paul Strickland

Carlos Reyes

Tommy Vega

Mayans MC:

Miguel Galindo

Angel Reyes

Ez Reyes

Bishop Losa

Emily Thomas

Coco Cruz

One Chicago:

Matt Casey

Kelly Severide

Brian «Otis» Zvonecek

Joe Cruz

Jay Halstead

Antonio Dawson

Adam Ruzek

Kevin Atwater

Erin Lindsay

Hailey Upton

Vanessa Rojas

Sean Roman

Kim Burgess

Connor Rhodes

Ethan Choi

Will Halstead

April Sexton

Crockett Marcel

Jeff Clarke

A Discovery of Witches:

Baldwin Montclair

Matthew de Clermont

Marcus Whitmore

Diana Bishop

Miriam Shepard

Domenico

Sophie Norman

Nathaniel Wilson

Gallowglass

Satu Järvinen

Juliette Durand

Phoebe Taylor

Hamish Osborn

Outlander:

Ian Murray

Frank Randall

Jamie Fraser

Harry Potter/Fantastic Beasts:

Sirius Black

Remus Lupin

James Potter

Newt Scamander

Young Dumbledore

Kingsman:

Eggsy Unwin

Roxy Morton

Harry Hart

Merlin

Charlie Hesketh

Percival

Lancelot / James Spencer

Ginger

Whiskey

Tequila

MCU:

Any of the Avengers is fine 🥰

Note: If there’s a character/fadom not listed, feel free to DM me

7. No RPF/real person fic. No underage character (includes reader/ocs)

8. Please signal boost this post, regardless if you participate or not

9. Most important! Have fun! 🥰 Feel free to dm me with any questions or concerns

[the-literata-letters]

reading list - gothic

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MY OTHER READING LISTS.

✵ ACTIVELY UPDATING ✵

☐  ALDERMAN, Naomi – The Lessons ☐  ATWOOD, Margaret – Lady Oracle ☐  AUSTEN, Jane – Northanger Abbey ☐  AZEVEDO, Álvares de – Noite na Taverna ☐  BECKFORD, William Thomas – Vathek ☐  BIERCE, Ambrose – The Death of Halpin Frayser ☐  BIERCE, Ambrose – The Spook House ☐  BLACKWELL, Anastasia – The House on Black Lake ☐  BLACKWOOD, Algernon – The Listener and Other Stories ☐  BRONTË, Charlotte – Jane Eyre ☐  BRONTË, Charlotte – Villette ☐  BRONTË, Emily – Wuthering Heights ☐  BROWN, Charles Brockden – Wieland ☐  BROWN, Charles Brockden – Ormond ☐  CAPOTE, Truman – Other Voices, Other Rooms ☐  CARTER, Angela – The Bloody Chamber ☐  CATHER, Willa – My Ántonia ☐  CAZOTTE, Jacques – Le Diable amoureux ☐  CHAMBERS, Robert W. – The King in Yellow ☐  DANFORTH, Emily M. – Plain Bad Heroines ☐  DANIELEWSKI, Mark Z. – House of Leaves ☐  DICKENS, Charles – Oliver Twist ☐  DICKENS, Charles – Bleak House ☐  DICKENS, Charles – Great Expectations ☐  DICKENS, Charles – The Mystery of Edwin Drood ☐  DOSTOYEVSKY, Fyodor Mikhailovich – The Double ☐  DOSTOYEVSKY, Fyodor Mikhailovich – The Landlady ☐  DOSTOYEVSKY, Fyodor Mikhailovich – Bobok ☐  DOSTOYEVSKY, Fyodor Mikhailovich – The Brothers Karamazov ☐  DOYLE, Sir Arthur Conan – Lot No. 249 ☐  du MAURIER, Daphne – Jamaica Inn ☐  du MAURIER, Daphne – Rebecca ☐  du MAURIER, Daphne – My Cousin Rachel ☐  du MAURIER, George – Trilby ☐  FARING, Sara – The Tenth Girl ☐  FARRELL, Henry – What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? ☐  FAULKNER, William – The Sound and the Fury ☐  FAULKNER, William – As I Lay Dying ☐  FAULKNER, William – Light in August ☐  FAULKNER, William – Absalom, Absalom! ☐  FLAMMENBERG, Ludwig – The Necromancer ☐  GARSHIN, Vsevolod Mikhailovich – The Red Flower ☐  GAUTIER, Theophile – The Mummy's Foot ☐  GILMAN, Charlotte Perkins – The Yellow Wallpaper ☐  GOGOL, Nikolai Vasilievich – Evenings on a Farm Near Dikanka ☐  GOGOL, Nikolai Vasilievich – Mirgorod ☐  GOGOL, Nikolai Vasilievich – Arabesques ☐  GOGOL, Nikolai Vasilievich – The Nose ☐  GRACQ, Julien – Au château d'Argol ☐  HAWTHORNE, Nathaniel – Young Goodman Brown ☐  HAWTHORNE, Nathaniel – The Minister's Black Veil ☐  HAWTHORNE, Nathaniel – Edward Randolph's Portrait ☐  HAWTHORNE, Nathaniel – The House of the Seven Gables ☐  HAWTHORNE, Nathaniel – Rappacini's Daughter ☐  HILL, Susan – The Woman in Black ☐  HOFFMANN, E. T. A. – The Devil's Exilir ☐  HOFFMANN, E. T. A. – The Entail ☐  HOFFMANN, E. T. A. – Gambler's Luck ☐  HOGG, James – The Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner ☐  HOLT, Victoria – Mistress of Mellyn ☐  HOLT, Victoria – Kirkland Revels ☐  HUGO, Victor – Notre-Dame de Paris ☐  HUYSMANS, Joris-Karl – Là-bas ☐  INGOLDSBY, Thomas – The Ingoldsby Legends ☐  IRVING, Washington – The Adventure of the German Student ☐  IRVING, Washington – "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" ☐  JACKSON, Shirley – The Lottery ☐  JACKSON, Shirley – A Visit ☐  JACKSON, Shirley – The Haunting of Hill House ☐  JACKSON, Shirley – We Have Always Lived in the Castle ☐  JACOBS, W. W. – The Monkey's Paw ☐  JAMES, Henry – The Turn of the Screw ☐  JELINEK, Elfriede – Die Kinder der Toten ☐  LATHOM, Francis – The Midnight Bell ☐  le FANU, SHERIDAN – Uncle Silas ☐  le FANU, SHERIDAN – In a Glass Darkly ☐  le FANU, SHERIDAN – Carmilla ☐  LEE, Harper – To Kill a Mockingbird ☐  LEIGH, Julia – The Hunger ☐  LEROUX, Gaston – Le Fantôme de l'Opéra ☐  LEVIN, Ira – The Stepford Wives ☐  LEWIS, Matthew Gregory – The Monk ☐  LEWIS, Matthew Gregory – The Castle Spectre ☐  MACHEN, Arthur – The Great God Pan ☐  MARRYAT, Florence – The Blood of the Vampire ☐  MARRYAT, Florence – The Phantom Ship ☐  MATURIN, Charles – Melmoth the Wanderer ☐  MEANEY, John – Bone Song ☐  MÉRIMÉE, PROSPER – La Vénus d'Ille ☐  MOORE, John – Zeluco ☐  MORRISON, Toni – Beloved ☐  NERVAL, Gérard de – Les Filles du feu ☐  OATES, Joyce Carol – Bellefleur ☐  OATES, Joyce Carol – Night-Side ☐  OATES, Joyce Carol – A Bloodsmoor Romance ☐  OATES, Joyce Carol – Mysteries of Winterthum ☐  OATES, Joyce Carol – My Heart Laid Bare ☐  O'CONNER, Flannery – Wise Blood ☐  ODOEVSKY, Vladimir – Russian Nights ☐  PARKER, Gilbert – The Lane that Had No Turning, and Other Tales ☐  PARSONS, Eliza – The Castle of Wolfenbach ☐  PARSONS, Eliza – The Mysterious Warning ☐  PEACOCK, Thomas Love – Nightmare Abbey ☐  PEAKE, Mervyn – Gormenghast ☐  PHILLIPS, Arthur – Angelica ☐  POE, Edgar Allan – "Berenice" ☐  POE, Edgar Allan – "Ligeia" ☐  POE, Edgar Allan – "The Fall of the House of Usher" ☐  POE, Edgar Allan – The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket ☐  POE, Edgar Allan – "The Masque of the Read Death" ☐  POE, Edgar Allan – "The Oval Portrait" ☐  POE, Edgar Allan – "The Pit and the Pendulum" ☐  POE, Edgar Allan – "The Black Cat" ☐  POE, Edgar Allan – "The Tell-Tale Heart" ☐  POTOCKI, Jan – The Manuscript Found in Saragossa ☐  PUSHKIN, Alexander – The Bridegroom ☐  PUSHKIN, Alexander – The Undertaker ☐  PUSHKIN, Alexander – The Queen of Spades ☐  RADCLIFFE, Ann – A Sicilian Romance ☐  RADCLIFFE, Ann – The Romance of the Forest ☐  RADCLIFFE, Ann – The Mysteries of Udolpho ☐  RADCLIFFE, Ann – The Italian ☐  RAY, Jean – Malpertuis ☐  ROCHE, Regina Maria – Clermont ☐  ROCHE, Regina Maria – The Children of the Abbey ☐  ROSTOPCHINA, Yevdokia Petrovna – Poedinok ☐  SETTERFIELD, Diane – The Thirteenth Tale ☐  SHELLEY, Mary – Frankenstein ☐  SHELLEY, Percy Bysshe – Zastrozzi ☐  SHELLEY, Percy Bysshe – St. Irvyne; or, The Rosicrucian ☐  SLEATH, Eleanor – The Orphan of the Rhine ☐  STEVENSON, Robert Louis – Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde ☐  STEWART, Mary – Nine Coaches Waiting ☐  STOKER, Bram – Dracula ☐  STOKER, Bram – The Lair of the White Worm ☐  STORM, Theodor – Der Schimmelreiter ☐  TARTT, Donna – The Secret History ☐  TARTT, Donna – The Little Friend ☐  THOMAS, Elisabeth – Catherine House ☐  URBAN, Miloš – Sedmikostelí ☐  WALPOLE, Horace – The Castle of Otranto ☐  WILDE, Oscar – The Picture of Dorian Gray ☐  ZAFÓN, Carlos Ruiz – La sombra del viento

[nocapesdahling]

Ships Series

Aziraphale x Crowley

Wanda Maximoff x Vision

Orpheus x Eurydice

Ruth Jamison x Idgie Threadgoode

Elphaba Thropp x Glinda Upland

Luna Lovegood x Neville Longbottom

Harley Quinn x Poison Ivy

Hannibal Lecter x Clarice Starling

Sansa Stark x Oberyn Martell

Alejandro Gillick x Kate Macer

Sansa Stark x Tormund Giantsbane

All Souls Trilogy

Diana Bishop

Matthew Clairmont

Gallowglass de Clermont

Sarah Bishop

Diana Bishop x Matthew Clairmont

Sarah Bishop x Emily Mather

Marcus Whitmore x Phoebe Taylor

Lord of the Rings

Éowyn

The Shire - Autumn

Rohan - Autumn

Rivendell - Autumn

Harry Potter

Ginny Weasley

Luna Lovegood

Narcissa Malfoy

Lucius Malfoy

Pansy Parkinson - Fancast as Hannah John-Kamen

Harry Potter x Ginny Weasley

Lucius x Narcissa Malfoy

Hogwarts Houses - Architecture

Ravenclaw

The Witcher

Leshens

Sirens

Noonwraith

The Beast of Beauclair - Detlaff van der Eretein

Greek Mythology Fancasts

Cillian Murphy as Hades

Blake Lively as Aphrodite

Jessica Chastain as Demeter

Viggo Mortensen as Zeus

Sophie Turner as Persephone

Mads Mikkelsen as Dionysus

Robert Downey Jr. as Hephaestus

Tom Hiddleston as Poseidon

Katie McGrath as Athena

Michael Fassbender as Ares

Movie Characters

Clarice Starling

Vanellope von Schweetz

John Bender

Marvel

Clint Barton

Otto Octavius

Steve Rogers

Pre-Serum Steve Rogers

Stephen Strange

Mobius

What if Loki grew up in Jötunheim

Inspired by Others’ Fic 

(Please go read them and give the writers some love)

Baron Helmut Zemo - Inspired by Cursed by: @clints-lucky-arrow​

The Nomad - Inspired by The Nomad by: @clints-lucky-arrow​

Inspired by catalyst by: @clints-lucky-arrow​

Boxer! Bucky Barnes - Inspired by The Boxer Next Door by: @clints-lucky-arrow​

Happy 1 year anniversary to The Nomad by: @clints-lucky-arrow​

Inspired by blood & vodka by: @/clints-lucky-arrow

Inspired by navy boy, country girl by: @/clints-lucky-arrow

350 Follower Celebration

Jaskier

Winter with Henry Cavill’s Sherlock Holmes

What We Do in the Shadows - Tumblr Moodboard

Cousin Helmut

Assassin’s Creed

Ezio Auditore

Dragon Age

The Warden

Twilight

The Volturi Kings 

The Volturi Queens

Elements

Water

Air

Fire - First

Fire - Second

Earth - First

Earth - Second

Ice - Pink

Ice - Blue

Westworld

Maeve Millay

Dolores Abernathy - Beginning of Season 1

Dolores Abernathy - End of Season 1

Spooky

Werewolf

Witch

Vampire - 1

Vampire - 2

Halloween

Haunted Manor AU ft. Daniel Brühl 

The Raven

The Fall of the House of Usher

Death as a Gentleman

Seasons and Months

Autumn

October

The Tudors

The Queens of Henry VIII

Sports

Soccer

Places

Italy and San Marino

[fearlesstarker]

“i'm going to kiss you right in front of everyone”

“they will destroy you, matthew. this is either madness... or brilliance”

“it's remarkable how often those two traits coincide”

the story in which the count de clermont decides to steal dracula's bride right from the vampire ball

[underthewingsofthblackeagle]

Chapters: 29/? Fandom: Outlander Series - Diana Gabaldon, Outlander (TV) Rating: Mature Warnings: The Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings, Major Character Death Relationships: Claire Beauchamp/Jamie Fraser Characters: Claire Beauchamp, Jamie Fraser, Fergus Fraser, Jenny Murray, Ian Murray, Sandy Travers, Frank Randall, Quentin Lambert Beauchamp, Ned Gowan Additional Tags: Berlin, The Frasers in Prussia, Germany Summary:

“We only do this for Fergus!” is a short Outlander Fan Fiction story and my contribution to the Outlander Prompt Exchange (Prompt 3: Fake Relationship AU: Jamie Fraser wants to formally adopt his foster son Fergus, but his application will probably not be approved… unless he is married and/or in a committed relationship. Enter one Claire Elizabeth Beauchamp (Randall?) to this story) @outlanderpromptexchange

[apinchofm]

Like the way you numbed all the pain - part 5: Bertrand's view

@matthewsblue @dreamofme9 @spitefularmand @lady-of-the-spirit

Bertrand cannot truly pinpoint when he truly did realise his closest friend was in love with his wife. Much like when he himself was falling in love with Miriam, it is a series of moments as opposed to one.

[baldwin-montclair]

Baldwin’s Nightingale (Part 19)

Characters: Baldwin Montclair/OC

Timeframe: Can safely say AU at this point, about a month after Matthew and Diana go back in time.

Summary: Alisha and Rebecca covertly meet with an ally who knew Catarina but trouble arrives in the form of an old enemy armed with stolen information.

Spoiler Warning: TV Show canon S1-S2, some Book of Life (wrote this chapter before seeing S3 so shouldn’t be too spoilery)

Tag requests: @christi14 @poemfreak306 @pookie-cleary @hofficoffi @stormyheart326 @wonderlander594 @madamquacklemore @thereadersmuse @kynthiamoon @ordinarymom1 @fuzzyflowervoid @maybelightning @lady-lazarus-declermont @whoa-studymuch @shugensha @sylverdeclermont

The Story So Far

“We’re now sitting at two weeks without word or update from Baldwin, or any indication he has located Alisha.” Marcus complained over the table.

“If he has found her,” Nathaniel commented, “we’ll never learn of it.”

“Nate,” Marcus frowned, “he wouldn’t!“

“Poor Gallowglass was banished, for a supposed failure!” The daemon argued.

“He wasn’t banished, Nathaniel,” Ysabeau interjected, “he was given an assignment, one which for all we know is related to finding the girl.”

“Agreed,” Emily put her hand over Sarah’s.

“Then why the secrecy?” Nathaniel challenged, “why will he not let us help him find her?”

“I agree with you,” Marcus assured him, “but he gave me an order and I cannot disobey. Right now, the only power I have to protect all of you is underwritten with Baldwin’s support.”

“Which he could withdraw at any moment.” Ysabeau agreed solemnly.

“In any case, Baldwin does not want us looking for her in case it draws attention.”

“As far as everyone else knows, she is a daemon,“ Nathaniel scowled, “the congregation won’t care what he does with her.”

“Are you seriously suggesting that he would kill her?” Ysabeau asked.

“If he hasn’t already.” Nathaniel offered.

“You are wrong, we have had many disagreements in our long acquaintance, but for all his pride Baldwin would never turn against his family. Whoever and whatever she is, she is a de Clermont now.”

“I didn’t know you cared, Ysabeau,” Baldwin joined the debate, “what’s this, a family meeting without it’s head.”

“Baldwin-“ Marcus stood.

“Wait, of course it isn’t, these creatures are not family.”

“You disappear for two weeks and return only to insult our guests?” Ysabeau stayed seated and fixed him with an icy glare.

“They’re not my guests.” Baldwin hit back.

Alisha listened to the soft lapping of canal water against the boat as she tried to calm her nerves.

Two weeks waiting for Baldwin to leave Venice, Rebecca’s contact finally came through. Miyako was fortunately able to stay close by with missions that were primarily located in Paris.

Coming up for a large building, she fiddled nervously with her rings beneath her hooded cloak, the plain wedding band and the engagement ring whose pearl had been bound for a far grander figure than her.

That was, until her husband used its purchase to sour relations between Mark Anthony and allies who would have given him the decisive victory over Octavius in Actium, thereby preventing him from becoming Augustus and changing the fate of the entire Roman Empire.

Such was the power of a de Clermont patriarch.

“Alisha?” Rebecca prompted, not receiving a response she gently touched her arm.

“Hmm, sorry I was miles away.”

“It’s fine, we’re almost there.”

Venice was beautiful at night, the lights reflecting off the canals almost took the edge from her apprehension.

Almost, until they pulled into an underground dock and Rebecca helped her out of the boat.

“This contact, are you sure we can trust him, that he won’t betray us?”

“He has no loyalty to any of his kind beyond what benefits him, allying with us benefits him. He won’t sell us out to Uncle Baldwin’s enemies.”

“I’m just as concerned that he will sell us out to your uncle,” Alisha admitted, surprise evident in Rebecca’s eyes, “Becca, what if he finds us, he doesn’t know you yet, he might-“

“What? Kill me?”

“Both of us!”

“He wouldn’t harm you and since Grandad’s blood vow covers me as well as Mum, he can’t hurt me either.”

Alisha frowned, unsure.

“Look,” Rebecca started patiently, “it’s not even really about the contact, it’s this place. Before other you was captured, you stashed something here, something that can help us stop what happens in my time.”

“That you can’t tell me about?”

“Exactly. We don’t have a lot of time before my parents return from the past, I need to be gone by then.”

Alisha let her niece lead her through the labyrinth of the lower level to a grand staircase leading to an upper floor.

It was a stunning building, unfurnished, but the paintwork was pristine and the marble floors gleamed.

“Who’s home is this?” She looked around in wonder.

“It is yours,” a handsome vampire with curled dark hair and mischievous air answered descending the central staircase, “Principessa da Venezia,” he bowed low in a medieval style, hands outstretched, “and Contessa,” he greeted Rebecca with an almost worshipful tone.

“Domenico,” she responded cooly, with the air of a courtly queen regarding a swooning suitor.

“No offence, but, why are you helping us when you could turn us in to Baldwin and win his favour?” Alisha asked.

“Your husband is an arrogant twat,” he shrugged, “and Venice is your home, where it’s safe, not locked up in Sept Tours.“

“I’ll just be locked up by you, I assume?”

“Not at all, you are free to come and go as you please. This place belongs to you, I merely held it in trust until your return. Just know that Baldwin has many spies so if you do decide to leave, he will locate you instantly.”

“Yeah, I get it,” Alisha sighed defeated, “so, you knew me, before?”

”I knew the man I believed was your father, Pasquale Cicogna, the Doge of Venice. I hadn’t realised until later that he adopted you to replace his young daughter when she died from illness. He kept you with him, treated you like his own, trained and tutored you.”

“Sounds nice.”

“You don’t remember everything of your previous life yet?”

“No, why? Were we a-“

“God no,” he looked offended, “you were a child and in need of protection.”

“So you’re a ‘good guy’?” She asked with a hint of sarcasm.

“Not particularly but I do have an unfailing loyalty to my own kind.”

“Creatures?”

He shook his head.

“Venetians.” He explained simply, leading the way to a room off the main area and flicked on the light.

A large painting took up almost the entire wall, it was her face but the clothes were unrecognisable, definitely Renaissance era.

“One of few paintings of you that exist,” he explained, “on the rare occasion you were seen in public, you concealed yourself behind a porcelain mask, long gloves, showing no skin at all, many opined it was as a result of smallpox scarring.”

“Why was it, really?”

“Freedom,” he explained, “as his silent and masked daughter you were privy to many conversations had around you and were able to uncover many plots and schemes.”

“Sounds boring as hell.”

“I’m sure it was. Luckily you spent most of your time as your alter ego, the minstrel, Oscine.”

“Like Clark Kent?”

“In a sense,” he grinned, “for some reason nobody ever wondered why Cicogna’s daughter and his musician were never seen in the same room.”

“That seems kind of obvious!” Rebecca pointed out.

“It was Venice in the late 1500’s, everyone was preoccupied with politics, murder, wine and other pleasures.”

“If I was always masked, who painted this portrait?”

“That I don’t know but the daemon, Michael, he was investigating strange, recently unearthed frescoes of you, Diana Bishop and,” he glanced up at Rebecca, “Contessa.”

“I suppose I have you to thank for defacing mine.” Rebecca gave him an appreciative smile.

“As much as it pained me to destroy your image, I did so only to protect you. But, I made a copy of the work.”

He handed her a photo.

“A copy,” Rebecca teased, “you say that like you were sat in front of it with paints and an easel, not an iPhone!”

He chuckled warmly.

“The daemon believed there was a code hidden in the photo, without knowing what it was, I couldn’t risk accidentally omitting a detail.”

“We both know you can forge any artwork.”

“Not one with you in it, all other detail would remain unnoticed by me as I toiled to properly capture that inscrutable expression.”

Rebecca seemed to blush slightly at the compliment and Alisha made a mental note to pry later.

“So, Rebecca, her mother and myself were all painted by someone 500 years ago?”

“That’s where time walking makes things more complicated,” Rebecca grimaced, “they may have painted it then but who knows where or when they came from.”

“Time-walking is a rare skill, only Contessa and your mother seem to have acquired it.” Domenico pondered.

“Some powerful witches are well hidden, even right now in this time!” Rebecca admitted.

“Tell me their names and I’ll deal with them.” Domenico smirked but the expression quickly shifted to concern when the doors swung open to reveal Miyako.

“We have to leave, now, he knows where you are!”

Alisha turned to look at Domenico accusingly.

“Baldwin did not hear it from me,” he promised.

“Not my father, it’s Benjamin and he’s not looking for Alisha,” Miyako’s tone betrayed the fear that was in Rebecca’s eyes, “Gerbert is with him.”

“I have no idea who Benjamin is but I can handle Gerbert, go!”

Rebecca simply nodded, and took both Miyako and Alisha’s hands.

Alisha hadn’t noticed until then that she was shaking.

“Becca,” Miyako prompted, getting her attention, “he won’t get you, I promise!”

“Just remember your other promise.”

Miyako gave a solemn confirmatory nod.

Receiving the assurance, Rebecca resumed her spell.

The door splintered outward, revealing Benjamin, bloodied from a fight.

“Domenico,” Rebecca inhaled sharply.

“Not your boyfriend I hope, Daddy wouldn’t be pleased.”

Rebecca closed her eyes and continued weaving as Benjamin tested the shield she had put around them.

“Fascinating witch, Alice, she followed you from the future, gave me all sorts of information. Knew I had to find you.”

Alisha couldn’t shake the horrible feeling of familiarity with him. She knew him and almost shrieked when he set his shark-eyed gaze on her.

“And Catarina.”

“Don’t talk to her.” Miyako snarled.

“You cannot save her from the memories I gave her current contemporary. Stay too long in a shared time and the ghosts of the displaced will haunt you. I learned that from my studies of time spinning, waiting for Diana. Now, I don’t have to wait fourteen years for you, Rebecca, you can give me what I want now.”

“Becca?” Miyako prompted.

“It’s not working, we need a shared focus.”

“We each share one person in common, one person who means so much to us. Think of him now and drop the shield when you are ready.” Miyako instructed.

——

“And you wonder why she left you!” Marcus seethed.

“Speak to me like that again boy-“ Baldwin challenged.

“That’s Grand-Master, head an order to which you belong!” Phoebe defended.

“And you are?”

“Phoebe Taylor.”

“Miss Taylor, you really should learn the etiquette required of a subordinate de Clermont’s mate. You address me as Sieur.”

“If I wanted lessons in etiquette comparable to your own I would visit the nearest pigsty.”

Everyone fell silent.

“Apologies, the nearest pigsty, Sieur.”

——

“We’re here!” Rebecca exclaimed with excitement upon seeing the terracotta squares of the dining room wall. Noting the shocked expression of Miyako and Alisha, she turned to see Baldwin and Marcus, both mid fight, both staring at them with everyone else in the room.

“Fuck!” Rebecca swore emphatically.

———

PART 20

[avatarofseshat]

Helpless (Part 5)

Pairing: Baldwin Montclair/OC

Summary: Summary: Inspired by the Creatures among us AU edits (they will tie directly into the story in the near future). After the release of the discoveries pertaining to Chromosome 24 and the CC Factor, the creatures can no longer hide. Baldwin Montclair has chosen to embrace it much to his family’s surprise and dismay. The title is a name of a Hamilton song because I adore it!

Part One

Part Two

Part Three

Part Four

This and the next part will be Christmas fluff and than we’ll get back to the present.

—-

Central Park is always ablaze during Christmastime, every tree was strung with golden lights which reflected off of the snow. Baldwin was unusually contemplative tonight, which made me very suspicious,while we strode arm in arm over the bridge.

“Why are you so quiet?” I paused, “I read your Time article!” That barely elicited a smile and I decided to change my tone “What is it?” I whispered which caused him to pause and turn to me.

“Elise…” he sighed as he fetched something from his coat pocket and then it dawned on me.

“Baldwin!” I exclaimed as he took my hand lowered himself to one knee in front of me. I suddenly became aware of the other park goers watching in anticipation.

“Will you marry me?” He said opening the black box to reveal and stunning oval cut diamond with golden leaf designs.

“Yes!” I exclaimed as I huge smile spread across his face, I had never seen Baldwin so happy as he was in that moment as he slid the ring on my finger. Than he rose to his feet and took me in his arms as our lips locked in a deep passionate kiss. I was vaguely aware of people cheering and whistling in the background.

“I assume marriage and mating are two separate things?” I teased as we sat in front of the fireplace in his penthouse apartment as he gave me a curious look.

“They are, one can be mated without being married and visa-versa,” he paused taking in my reaction “Marriage is a legal and spiritual bonding, while mating is a physical and emotional need.”

“So we not only need each other, but also want each other?” I inquired leaning deeper into his chest.

“Precisely. You’ll also be a De Clermont.” He paused “Elise, I’m the head of my family, and as my wife there will be expectations.”

“Expectations?”

“Mostly conduct and...obedience.”

“You want me to obey you?” I said laughing but immediately stopped at Baldwin’s reaction “What kind of obedience?”

“If I issue an order, there’s a reason for it.” He further explained “I don’t do it fiverously...it’s for the safety and good of the family,” his face was meer inches from mine as our eyes locked.

“I understand.” I nodded my head in agreement, his expression softens as he pulls me into his arms and I bury my face his chest.

“You smell so good.” He sighs into my hair.

“I do?” I mumble contently into his chest.

“Like eucalyptus and lemongrass.” He responds somehow pulling me closer as I wrap my arms around him and settle into his chest.

...

After spending a few days in Lyon we left the next morning for Sept-Tours, the trip was dotted by ancient villages and French countryside. When we finally reach Auvergne, I couldn’t help but notice the curious and guarded looks from the townspeople as we drive by.

“Do they know?”

“Of course, they do,” Baldwin glanced over “Safety in numbers...the whole town used to join us every Christmas…they will be in attendance for our union.”

“Who are we expecting again?” She asked looking out of the window as they drew closer to Sept-Tours.

“My brother, Matthew, and his wife Diana and their children Rebecca and Philip, are already there and of course my step-mother Ysabeau and Marthe whom we consider family” he explained “the others will arrive tomorrow….it’ll be quite the gathering.”

“Do they know?”

“That we are mated? Yes. Engaged? No.” He clarified but it didn’t relieve any of my anxiety.

“I see…”

“Relax my love, there is nothing to be worried about.” he assured me.

I always seem to forget that vampires can feel emotions among other things. The car was slowing and then came to a stop, which also didn’t help my anxiety “Take a deep breath,” he coaxed and I obeyed which helped a little, “One more thing, vampires can’t touch another vampires mate without seeking permission…so don’t offer your hand.”

“Oh, okay...you will give them permission won’t you?” He nodded “What about Diana and the twins?”

“You’re not a vampire and neither are they, so it doesn’t apply.” He clarified “You’ll probably get bombarded.”

���That is perfectly fine!” I paused at his suspicious look “I they bombarded me it means they like me...don’t we want that?”

Before Baldwin exited the car he gave my hand a squeeze. The others were waiting expectedly and the twins could barely contain themselves.

“Uncle Baldwin!” The shouted excitedly in unison as he rounded the hood of the car, I could help but smile and their sheer joy at seeing their uncle.

“You have to settle down.” He instructed, mind you three year olds aren’t known for their lack of excitement.

He hesitated before opening the door and offering his hand, which I gladly accepted as I rose from my seat and somewhere along the journey my feet fell asleep and they screamed when I made them bare weight. Baldwin could sense my discomfort and gave me a concerned look which I shrugged off.

All eyes were on me as we ascended the stairs to the entrance where everyone was waiting, “This is Elise…” Baldwin started

“We’re so happy you have finally found your mate.” Ysabeau addressed him in return and stepped closer to me and paused to look at him.

“You have my permission, Ysabeau” he assured his step-mother, “as do you Matthew” he addressed is brother and then turned to the older woman “and of course you as well Marthe.” They all took their turns welcoming me into the family and I did indeed get bombarded by the twins who yelled “Auntie!” As they wrapped on to my legs much no to Baldwin’s amusement as he chastised Matthew and Diana for their ‘hooligan children’.

“Elise is also my fiancée!” He announced pulling me close and placing a kiss on my temple.

“I never thought it would happen, brother!” Matthew exclaimed

“Matthew!” Both Diana and Ysabeau warned.

“We’ll let the two of you get settled,” Ysabeau continued “Before we discuss anything further...there has been a change of plans for Christmas.” This caused an inquisitive look from Baldwin as he led me inside.

We then departed for his tower which had to put it mildly a lot of stairs and he must have known I was struggling.

“I would aide you, However you are an independent woman,” he paused grinning at me “Which you have made abundantly clear.”

The tower’s masterbedrom was massive “When’s the last time you shared it?” I inquire taking in my surroundings.

“Never.” He said in earnest, the look in his eyes made by heart palpate “I need you.” His voice had a desperation to it.

“I’m yours.”

….

After awhile we rejoined them in the sitting room and from the looks on their faces they all had known what had preoccupied us as they glanced around at each other but avoided us.

“We are going to the mountains for Christmas.” Ysabeau spoke after a moment.

“Pardon? The mountains…” Baldwin attempted to clarify

“Philip and Rebecca want to play in the snow.”

[adiscoveryofwitchesfrance]

📙 📺 A Discovery Of Witches, Episode 6 📺 📚

Un avis parmi tant d'autres...

L’épisode 6 est celui qui a été le moins visionné en Grande Bretagne. Et c’est certainement celui que j’aime le moins.

Ce n’est pas parce qu’il y a de la torture ou que La Pierre est un endroit lugubre. En fait, j’aime plutôt ces chapitres du livres (non pas que je sois sadique, j’expliquerai plus tard pourquoi mais les lecteurs comprendront au mot « oubliettes » ce dont je veux parler). Ce que je n’apprécie pas, c’est le rythme. Depuis le début de la série, nous courrons après le temps. Les scénaristes font des efforts magistraux pour condenser informations et actions dans des formats trop serrés, coupant certaines scènes, faisant des choix éditoriaux et me donnant souvent l’impression que quelqu’un appuie sur le bouton « avance rapide » de l’histoire.

Alors pourquoi passer 26 min (soit 62% de l’épisode) à La Pierre ? Pourquoi s’appesantir autant sur un événement qui pouvait être résumé au même titre que les autres ? Pourquoi ajouter même des séquences secondaires (et souvent pas vraiment utiles) à un épisode où tout ne rentrait pas ?

Pour moi, cet épisode traîne en longueur et l’on « gaspille » les précieuses minutes allouée à l’histoire. Quel dommage !

It's difficult to know when she's been with De Clermont, where her scents begin and his end.

Pour une fois, l’épisode ne commence pas avec la vision de Matthew mais avec l’épouvantable Gerbert. Et la voix off d’introduction de Matthew paraît vraiment de trop car elle ne colle pas vraiment avec les images que l’on voit.

Diana « atterri » et tombe terrorisée nez à nez avec Gerbert qui est absolument répugnant. La façon dont il la sent, dont il ose la toucher (alors qu’il sait pertinemment que Matthew sentira son odeur sur Diana), dont il ose vérifier s’il s’est nourri d’elle en soulevant ses cheveux, dont sa main traine doucement sur sa poitrine… toutes ces actions sont absolument viles et dégoutantes. Gerbert nous apparaît sans filtre, envieux, avide. Et tellement plein de préjugés. Il prétend que la faiblesse de Matthew sont les femmes. Si effectivement, les femmes l’ont entraîné par le passé à de sombres actions, c’est plutôt son besoin de les protéger à tout prix qui est sa faiblesse. Car les femmes sont généralement ses forces si l’on prend l’exemple de Miriam, de Marthe et d’Ysabeau qui veillent sur lui en permanence. Et il ne faut pas oublier que si Matthew est tombé dans l’illusion de Juliette pendant quelques décennies, il a fini par la quitter et l’oublier.

Gerbert brûle d’envie d’élargir sa collection de sorcière et il peine à se contenir.

Good Cop

Et c’est là où Satu entre en jeux. Comme dans le livre, on a l’impression qu’elle est « la gentille », proposant son aide à Diana, voulant la comprendre. Elle reprend les mêmes arguments, joue sur la sensibilité et les peurs de Diana pour l’encourager à lui donner confiance. Et Diana n’étant pas coopérative, elle change de tactique en lui montrant les vicissitudes de son Vampire. Gillian, son ambition d’obtenir le livre, les arguments sont puissants. Elle pousse même sa stratégie à appeler Matthew par son prénom, ce qui est très inhabituel pour une créature. Et elle pousse ainsi Diana dans ses retranchant, activant sa magie par son besoin de protection.

Disque rayé

C’est typiquement l’une des scènes dont je ne comprends pas l’utilité. Nous avions eu l’énoncé de la prophétie de Meridiana lors de l’épisode précédent. C’était très bien amené. Mais ici je ne comprends pas l’intérêt ? Pourquoi la dire ? la redire en boucle ? Quand on voit le rythme serré de l’histoire pourquoi ajouter cette séquence qui n’apporte rien à l’intrigue ? J’ose espérer qu’elle annonce des éléments qui seront développés dans la saison 2 (on peut imaginer y retrouver Meridiana en un seul morceau cette fois). Si ce n’est pas le cas, je pense vraiment que c’est gâcher les précieuses minutes qui sont à notre disposition.

Les secrets

Et pendant ce temps-là, la longue interrogation continue.

Attention, je ne critique en rien le jeu des deux actrices car il est parfait. Leurs interactions, leurs réactions, la qualité de leur jeu est tout ce qui rend ces scènes crédibles et nous permettent de nous y accrocher. Les larmes qui montent aux yeux, la colère qui les fait trembler de tout leur être, les émotions à fleur de peau. Teresa Palmer et Malin Buska sont vraiment exceptionnelles.

Mais on étire encore trop la scène pour arriver à la torture.

Et ce, même si je trouve intéressant de voir abordé la notion des secrets chez les sorcières. Dans le livre, on explique longuement que les sorcières n’ont pas le droit de cacher des choses à leur communauté. Et c’est la raison pour laquelle Steven et Rebecca ont été assassinés. Et Satu est parfaitement placée pour le savoir.

Matthew en sous-vêtements

Car c’est vraiment ce qu’on retient de cette scène ! Matthew, véritable statuaire grecque qui se montre à nous en toute vulnérabilité dans un plan très flatteur et appréciable pour nos yeux amateurs.

Et pourtant il y a un peu plus à retenir de cette scène. Matthew s’éveille, totalement serein. Contrairement au livre, il ne panique pas en ne sentant pas Diana mais prend le temps de scanner tout son environnement avant de se rendre compte de sa disparition. Et il entend soudain les pâles de l’hélicoptère annonçant l’arrivée de son frère. La rage monte, ses réflexes protecteurs sont à leur maximum.

Et c’est après un très beau plan où l’on voit Matthew finir de s’habiller (ce n’est que moi ou l’habillement est aussi agréable à regarder que le déshabillage ?) marchant d’un pas décidé, la colère bouillonnant, qu’il interpelle son frère en lui plantant une droite dans la mâchoire en guise de salutations. La scène était osée mais j’avoue avoir adoré la surprise. On comprend vite que Matthew n’est pas vraiment lui-même lorsqu’il en vient à mordre son frère (outrage suprême pour un vampire et qui plus est, le chef de famille). Ses émotions obscurcissent son jugement, son besoin de retrouver Diana l’obsède complètement. L’assassin qui est en lui reparaît subitement. Ce qui m’a surpris est la réaction plutôt calme et raisonnée de Baldwin, qui est plutôt d’un tempérament brutal et sanguin. Malheureusement pour lui, il comprend vite qu’il est arrivé au mauvais moment.

Au passage, j’aime l’attitude impassible d’Ysabeau qui laisse les deux frères gérer leur longue et compliquée relation, aux tensions amassées depuis des siècles.

Pendant ce temps, à La Pierre

Il se passe enfin quelque chose. C’est totalement différent du livre, mais j’aime assez. Dans le livre la scène est absolument gore, puisque Satu ouvre réellement Diana après l’avoir littéralement réduite en bouillie. Ce qui donne le courage à Diana est l’apparition d’un arbre magique (Dianae arbore ?) sous lequel se trouve le fantôme de sa mère qui la soutient. J’imagine qu’ici, outre le problème budgétaire, le rendu aurait été difficile à rendre crédible. Je trouve donc que le choix qui a été fait ici est efficace et totalement crédible par l’incroyable jeu de Teresa (ses cris sont plutôt convainquant) et de Malin, totalement effrayante. Je trouve toutefois le résultat de l’ouverture magique un peu trop propret puisque même les habits de Diana sont intacts. On a du mal à croire qu’une boucherie sanguinaire s’est produite. Toutefois, l’idée de voir les pouvoirs de Satu s’épuiser contre ceux de Diana est assez bonne innovation et ne peut que nous interpeller quant à la suite.

Et quelle satisfaction de voir que le marquage du blason de Matthew a été conservé dans la série !

Où Badlwin est le plus intelligent

Malgré la violente querelle précédente, Baldwin aide son frère car, comme toujours chez les De Clermont, les tensions personnelles disparaissent instantanément quand le bien commun de la famille est en jeu.

J’aime beaucoup la loquacité de Baldwin face à Matthew qui court comme un poulet sans tête. Dans le livre, Baldwin injecte Matthew de réfléchir. Ici, il n’a même pas besoin de parler. Un seul petit geste suffit.

Et c’est aussi lui qui trouve d’où vient la menace. Son coup de fil à Knox est absolument convaincant, en tant que chef de la Congregation protègeant ses intêrets.

Et j’ai tellement rit de la répartie sidérée de Knox lorsqu’il raccroche : « Where is Satu ? ». C’est irrésistible !

Grosse colère

Dans un ultime geste de rage, Satu va jeter sans aucun ménagement et dans une totale colère Diana dans les oubliettes. La violence de la chute, sa rage sont complètement crédibles. Il faudra juste m’expliquer l’intérêt d’ajouter par-dessus les incantations de Meridiana.

Le conseil de guerre

J’adore cette scène à plus d’un titre. Tout d’abord parce qu’il est très intéressant de voir les 4 personnages interagir et à l’œuvre. Philippe appelait Ysabeau « son général » et elle ne faillit pas à sa réputation. Baldwin aide son frère à penser et Marthe facilite et tempère Matthew. Ensuite, le jeu de Matthew est absolument sublime. Les expressions de son visage et son attitude sont inhumaines. On a l’impression de voir un prédateur, le loup souvent décrit en train d’analyser la situation, penchant la tête, son regard perçant en train de sentir son environnement, d’élaborer son plan. Je ne pensais pas qu’il était possible de traduire tout ça à l’écran. Ce sont des descriptions que l’on retrouve beaucoup dans les livres, et je trouve formidable de les voir ici. Son regard, notamment, lorsqu’il comprend qu’Ysabeau sait où est Diana, est extraordinaire. Et j’aime aussi le fait que ce ne soit pas lui qui ait trouvé tout seul le lieu mais Ysabeau. C’est un travail collectif, de famille.

Enfin, le fait d’avoir l’intervention des tantes, l’utilisation des visions de Em comme dans le livre est juste ce qui manquait pour que tous les éléments s’emboîtent parfaitement. (ceci dit, j’aimerai bien savoir dans quel annuaire Sarah a trouvé le numéro de portable de Matthew, je suis preneuse…)

Bref, vous l’aurez compris, j’aime vraiment beaucoup cette scène. (Plus que ce qui se passe entre parallèle à La Pierre, où Satu et Gerbert se disputent Diana). Avez-vous remarqué qu’à la fin de la scène lorsque Matthew se lève, il emmène la carte avec lui ? Trystan retient la carte et remet tout en place. Je pense que ce n’était pas prévu mais j’aime l’idée que Matthew fait les choses avec impulsion et que Baldwin est celui qui remet les choses en ordre après son passage…

Et puis, juste après, il y a la séquence dans l’hélicoptère. Les casques, l’impatience, le saut surhumain… on est complètement dans l’univers masculin des De Clermont partant à la bataille !

Les Oubliettes

C’est ma grande déception de l’adaptation. Dans le livre, les oubliettes sont un moment décrit de manière très très visuelle. Diana est entourée de fantômes et de ceux de ses parents. Passé et présent se mélangent pour redonner vie au conte que Rebecca racontait le soir à sa fille. L’image des rubans pour s’envoler… il y avait beaucoup de matière. Trop, peut-être. Par conséquent, c’est plutôt sous forme de rêve, avec ces toiles d’araignée qui nous posent question depuis le début de la série. Il y a bien une tentative de raconter le conte mais ça ne marche pas vraiment. Dommage.

Car le trio Rebecca-Steven-Diana marche pourtant bien. Une nouvelle fois la performance de Teresa Palmer est impressionnante. J’adore le regard d’adoration qu’elle a vers Rebecca, comme toute petite fille regarderait sa mère. C’est extrêmement réussi et ce sont ces interactions qui sauvent la scène.

Car je n’adhère pas du tout aux flashbacks que je trouve vraiment inutiles et trop faciles.

Par contre, j’aime beaucoup la façon dont Diana va s’élever dans les airs. Pas de rubans, mais la compréhension que la magie est dans le cœur. Son cœur étant en haut avec Matthew, elle ne peut que s’élever vers lui. Il semblerait que c’est à ce moment que la magie de Diana se débloque. Je ne l’avais pas compris comme ça. Mais il y a toujours une part d’interprétation sur ce genre de scènes.

Et pendant ce temps…

Satu et Gerbert se menacent mutuellement. On comprend que Gerbert aimerait fortement ajouter Satu à sa collection de têtes dorées. Et l’on comprend vite à quel point il craint les De Clermont (ou en tout cas, il en est encore à jouer en coulisse et n’est pas prêt à les affronter ou se dévoiler). Satu découvre avec horreur Meridiana. Pour quelqu’un qui vient de réaliser les pires horreurs sur l’une de ses congénères, ce regain d’humanité est quelque peu surprenant.

De retour à Sept Tours

Je n’irai pas dire que les retrouvailles avec Ysabeau sont chaleureuses mais on sent une vraie sincérité dans les échanges entre Diana et Ysabeau. On ne le sait pas encore dans la série mais dans le livre on sait qu’Ysabeau a elle aussi été emprisonnée et torturée, sauvée seulement par Philippe. Le regard d’Ysabeau n’est que pure compassion pour une histoire qu’elle connait bien et voit se répéter.

« I’ll never let you go again ». C’est une nouvelle promesse de Matthew qui, comme à son habitude, endosse personnellement la responsabilité de tout ce qui s’est mal passé. J’adore la façon dont elle s’appuie sur lui à ce moment, venant chercher toute la force et le réconfort qui lui font défaut à ce moment.

C’est d’ailleurs l’une des scènes où je trouve que Teresa Palmer a le mieux cerné la Diana du livre. Elle est rouée de coups, vraisemblablement épuisée mais elle essaie de se tenir debout et sa première pensée est pour rassurer ses tantes. Quand elle passe devant Ysabeau, elle tente d’esquisser un sourire pour la rassurer et là on ne peut s’empêcher de penser « quelle lionne ! »

Où l’on se rappelle que Matthew est aussi Docteur

Et oui, Matthew a eu plusieurs vies dont celle de médecin. Ça n’avait pas été encore dit dans la série aussi l’examen très médical de Diana renseigne le téléspectateur sur ce point. Cette scène est magnifiquement jouée par Teresa. Elle ne se plaint pas, prend sur elle et minimise les choses, comme pour préserver Matthew de la vérité et prévenir sa colère. On lit sur son visage la détresse, la douleur, la fatigue. Plus d’une fois, on croit qu’elle va vaciller, tourner de l’œil, fondre en larme. Et la façon qu’elle a de regarder Matthew ! Il est son seul espoir, son point d’ancrage, celui grâce à qui elle tient bon. Matthew est un mélange élégant de douceur et de force, de rage contrôlée et concentrée sur la tâche et le mieux-être de Diana.

La scène du marquage a la place qu’elle mérite. Chaque personnage a la réaction qui lui est propre et légitime, avec les citations exactes du livre. J’aime voir les échanges de regards, les non-dits horrifiés et parfaitement échangés. J’imaginais la marque autrement mais elle fonctionne bien. La seule chose non crédible est Diana regardant la marque dans le miroir. Il est tout bonnement physiquement impossible qu’elle puisse y voir quelque chose. Je sais bien que la réalisation est ainsi faite pour des problématiques de cadrages et de rendu artistique mais je trouve cela un peu dommage.

J’aime cependant le sourire vengeur et fier de Diana lorsqu’elle réalise qu’elle a su résister à Satu, que son pouvoir est plus fort qu’il n’y parait et qu’elle a survécu. Elle sait qu’elle a désormais le pouvoir de se défendre.

Eurk Gerbert !

Vous ai-je déjà dit que je trouvais Gerbert répugnant ? Et bien je le réaffirme ! Le voir sucer la trace de sang avec satisfaction est vraiment une chose dégoutante. Tout comme son grand sourire machiavélique qui se dessine lorsqu’il reçoit les souvenirs véhiculés dans le sang… oui mais le sang de qui ? Diana ? Satu ? Le mystère reste entier et il faudra vraisemblablement attendre la prochaine saison pour en avoir la réponse….

L’heure de vérité

Dans une atmosphère de profonde intimité, Diana cherche à savoir si elle a bien fait de défendre Matthew contre Satu. Ce n’est pas un échange où elle est inquiète ou effrayée. Elle a la tête bien haute et c’est en tant qu’égale de Matthew qu’elle demande des comptes. Le cadrage et les plans sont rigoureusement identiques entre Matthew et Diana. Ils ont la même expression, le même regard. Ils sont tous deux en guerre contre qui viendra menacer l’autre. Diana est vengeresse, forte. C’est très différent de la Diana du livre qui est libérée et cherche des réponses aux questions. Mais j’aime autant cette nouvelle ligne. Elle est vraiment cohérente avec le personnage de Matthew.

J’aime aussi le fait qu’on sous-entend qu’ils ont eu de nombreuses discussions sur ce que leur relation impliquait et représentait. Diana répond à la tirade de Matthew « Je sais, tu me l’as dit ». Et pour tous les fans frustrés de ne pas avoir eu ces discussions, c’est très malin de nous rassurer ici en nous disant qu’elles ont bien eu lieu.

Lutte fraternelle

Pendant ce temps, Baldwin broie du noir dans le bureau de Philippe. Il a aidé son frère, fait tout ce qu’il devait pour défendre les intérêts de sa famille. Maintenant, il a des comptes à régler avec lui. Il est intéressant ici de remarquer que, contrairement à Matthew, il n’hésite pas à s’asseoir dans le siège de Philippe, traduisant ici son statut de chef de famille.

Dans cette scène, beaucoup d’informations sont échangées. Certaines avec beaucoup de subtilité et de fluidité (toute la notion d’arbre généalogique et d’être renié, essentielle pour le livre 3), d’autres un peu plus grossière. Il est indispensable d’enfin expliquer l’ordre des Chevaliers de Lazare au spectateur : son origine, sa mission, ses faits d’arme, la jalousie de Baldwin de ne pas en avoir hérité de Philippe… Ce que je reproche est que les tirades sont un peu trop théatrales et pédagogiques pour être réalistes. Mais au moins, le sujet est clair pour tout le monde.

Et Matthew remet la lettre. Une nouvelle fois dans un français très incompréhensible. Les mots sont là. Je suis un peu déçue que Baldwin ne réponde pas avec le sarcasme du livre. La scène aurait été parfaite.

You’ve both shown you have some fight in you. Hold onto that, because you’re going to need it.

Avant de partir, Baldwin leur donne les meilleurs conseils possibles. On sent sa puissance de stratège, de visionnaire. Il leur rappelle l’importance de survivre et de réfléchir rapidement à leur prochaine action, comme un lointain écho du mantra que donnera Philippe plus tard à Diana : « Think & Survive » J’aime vraiment le personnage de Baldwin.

S’en suit une scène très belle et touchante. Conscient que Diana souffre, Matthew souhaite lui apporter du réconfort, mais sans la toucher. Il pose son menton juste derrière elle, l’enveloppant de sa présence protectrice. Diana se blottie encore plus et prend sa main, qu’elle caresse sans un mot. Pas un mot échangé dans un moment lourd de sens et de communication, parfaitement cadré, parfaitement filmé.

I'm your mother. You come first. Both of you do.

Ce que j’aime Sophie et Agatha dans cette scène. Sophie dégage une telle authenticité, une telle force empreinte de douceur. Ses rêves, ses intuitions la guide et Nathanaël la soutient silencieusement à ses côtés. Agatha fait preuve d’une très grande ouverture d’esprit, affichant clairement ses priorités et quel est son combat.

Thank you, Weaver

Si cette scène est le prélude à d’autres concernant Meridiana dans la saison 2, je dis bravo et elle laisse à penser qu’elle pourrait avoir un rôle important puisque c’est Goody Alshop qui apporte normalement cette information de poids.

Si ce n’est pas le cas, je ne vois d’intérêt que pour ajouter de la lumière, de l’humanité à Satu, et peut être une nouvelle fureur de vengeance contre Gerbert et peut être Knox. Et aussi nous révéler (au cas où nous ne l’avions pas compris) qu’il y aura un combat entre la Dark Witch et la White Witch…

What am I ?

Fidèle au schéma narratif habituel, l’épisode se referme avec le regard de Diana. Cette fois, c’est un regard interrogateur, plein d’incompréhension et de question.

La révélation de la théorie du spellbound a de quoi la secouer tant c’est un sort interdit et lourd de conséquences. J’aime beaucoup que ce soit Ysabeau qui amorce le sujet. Elle estime Diana et sait qu’elle est forte. Elle est aussi décidée à en faire une De Clermont, capable de se défendre elle-même. Matthew s’exécute immédiatement lorsque sa mère le sollicite d’un regard. Il fait attention à ménager Diana, mais lui donne la vérité sans détour.

A ce moment, tout prend sens, les pièces du puzzle se mettent en place et l’on comprend que l’on est dans un tournant de l’intrigue…

Et que malheureusement le dénouement est proche, avec seulement 2 épisodes à venir…