anna calvert

[phabblebabbles]

HEART - Anna Calvert

is your muse quick or slow to give their heart away?

In the simplest of terms, Anna is incredibly reserved with her romantic affections. 

Though she may not entirely realize this, it is probably partially due to the influence of her parents. Despite her father’s assurances that he loved their mother dearly (which Anna doesn’t deny), she knew their relationship was not originally born out of love, but necessity. Since she has been groomed from a young age to be the perfect lady and to make the most advantageous match for the family, Anna knew the best she might hope for is that she might grow to love her future husband in the same way that her parents had grown to love one another. 

Her reserved approach to romantic would only increase after the circumstances involving Arthur Allen. She would only ever dare to admit to herself that she had imagined herself blissfully happy for those few fleeting days she thought her father might be contemplating a marriage between the pair. He has only been the only man she considered herself in love with and the moment when her father announced he intended for Arthur to marry Rose was the closest she had ever been to heartbreak. 

Thus, Anna Calvert is unsure if she will ever find another man she might ever feel she could give her heart too, both due to her father’s plans for her life and knowing she might never find as good a man as Arthur. 

[thevaleriananna]

thevalerianalexander​:

Discovered | Anna & Alexander

“I know what I saw, witch!” He dared to take a step closer to her as he said it, his eyes full of anger and fear, all at once. “Do not try to tell me that I did not.” She could try to blame it on the brandy all she liked, Alexander Lambton knew how to hold his liquor and as much as he had had to drink, he knew that he was sober enough, now, that it was not his eyes playing a trick on him. 

Still, his head was spinning and he did not know what to do. Part of him wanted to strangle her - how dare she make him want her, when she knew all along what she was? He was angerier still that he had been blind to ti. He had boasted many times that he could pick out these freaks in a crowd better than any hunter, and here he was moments away from having one in his bed. 

In his frustration, he grabbed the vase full of flowers that she had picked and threw it past her, watching the glass vase splinter and break against the walls and settle onto the ground. 

“How long have you been afflicted?” He spat, “How long have you known?” It was a question he hardly wanted the answer to. Unless this was the first time it had surfaced, Alexander would not be satisfied. “You dared to try to seduce a King, while you held such a secret! Does your father know about this? Is that why he is so desperate to be rid of you?”

Anna gasped, ducking out of the way as the vase flew past her. Think, think, think! Her mind shouted at her as she knew she needed another plan. She had quickly realized she would not save herself, not now that the King knew and especially since he clearly had deluded himself into the idea she had been a willing participant in his amorous pursuits. Embarrassing a man with an ego such as his spelled her doom, witch or not.

As her fate was all but sealed, Anna had one singular focus now: remain free long enough to get to Rose. While the discovery that Anna was a witch would bring shame upon her family, no one would ever believe her father or Howard were a part of some conspiracy to hide the truth. But free spirited Rose who already existed outside the norms of society… would they think her a witch as well? So often the affliction was associated with women, Anna could only imagine what terrible conclusions the masses might think up. No, it was imperative that Anna remain free long enough to ensure her sister was able to get herself out of Valeria for her own safety.

Alexander Lambton had made clear his thoughts on the minds of women-- weak, foolish, simple. She knew she could not appeal to his sympathies, for he clearly had none, but perhaps he might be concern with his own image-- for all of Valeria had seen that he foreign king was clearly infatuated with Anna-- that he might keep her secret long enough for her to send Rose away. Then she would go to Margot, confess everything, and hopefully save the family from the disgrace of having her publicly exposed.

“I…I…” she stammered, looking up at him from where she cowered across the room. “No one knows… I don’t even know how long it has been since this…this… affliction has plagued me, but it has been just within the past months that I’ve realized I have become such an abomination and… and…”

Anna sank to her knees, tears streaming down her face. She couldn’t help it— even though she was confessing this to the last person in the world she should ever wish to know her secret, it was as if months and months of pressure had suddenly been released. She had thought to tell her secret so many times-- to Rose, to Charles, to Cordelia-- but had always found herself too fearful of their response. While she hated to be so utterly vulnerable in front of such a despicable man  she knew a least the outburst of emotion would help sell her desperation.

“I had no idea what to do once I realized… No one in Valeria hates witches more than my father; no one is more committed to their eradication than my brother… my own uncle the King was murdered by them! The shame it would bring upon my family it…it… it paralyzed me. I thought perhaps if I ignored it, the affliction would disappear as quickly as it appeared but I realize I was such a fool to believe that possible…”

Anna had never been spoken about in such a way as the King spoke of her that day. She had hated when people spoke of her so highly, but she had always been held as the shining of example of a lady in the court. Had any man spoken of her in the way Alexander did this night, she knew her father would have had him dealt without a second thought. Still, she knew better than to protest. 

“Your Highness I swear I would never do anything to harm anyone and I never meant to deceive you. I love my family… my country… my loyalty lies entirely with Valeria and… and… I don’t want to be like this. I just want to be as I was before.”

This was the moment. She knew that he would be entirely in his right to kill her on the spot, should he so chose. There was no punishment to ridding the world of a witch. This was her one chance-- for her family, for Rose.

“Your Grace… Alexander…” she locked eyes with him before continuing, her own brimming with a fresh set of tears. “I beg of you… please… help me. I have no one else to turn to.”

She felt suddenly as if she had walked directly into the lions’ den, but unfortunately there was no other road available to travel. 

[thevaleriananna]

thevalerianalexander​:

Discovered | Anna & Alexander

Alexander Lambton had been disappointed with his visit to the Calvert household. He had accepted an invitation to dine at their summer residence by Clarence and had eagerly accepted, in the hopes of enjoying Anna’s company in a more private setting. 

However, after dinner, he joined the men (sans Charles, but he hadn’t especially noticed the younger Calvert’s absence) for brandy and cigars. Anna and her sister had both retired, after, and he hadn’t been had the chance to bid her goodnight, let alone enjoy anysort of private conversation. 

Still, he stayed late into the night conversing and gambling with Howard, long after the rest of the household had retired. Finally, when the skies began to promise to lighten, he said his final farewell. 

As his carriage was departing the grounds, however, he spotted a faint light that came from the greenhouse. There was a faint light in the greenhouse and from his vantage point, he could tell that Anna Calvert was inside - and that she was very much alone. 

In an instant, he was tapping his cane on the roof of the carriage, singeling it to stop. A moment later, he was climbing out of it and heading towards the greenhouse. “Your Grace?” He barely heard his servant call out to him as he abandoned the carriage. The servant began to nervously follow him, unsure what he was meant to do. 

“Stay where you are!” Alexander barked. “I won’t be long.” 

And if I am, he thought, you can damn well wait. 

Quietly, he opened the door and stepped inside. He was surrounded by exotic trees and sweet smelling flowers. She was on the other side of the room, back towards him, all her attentions were clearly on something he could not see. A bouquet of flowers she had picked here, he supposed. He smiled to himself - women were so easily distracted by such simple, silly things. 

There were a few candles lit in the area where she was, but as for Alexander - the shadows hid his form and the constant trickle of the fountain hid his footsteps. 

He was entranced by her form. She had was still dressed for bed and wore a white robe over her nightdress. It was clear that she had not anticipated anyone to come upon her so late at night. 

A moment later, Alexander came up behind her, grabbed her by the waist and tried to turn her towards him so he might kiss her, but she pulled away so quickly, so violently that he lost his grasp on her, and she pulled away, frightened. 

He looked back at her, his mouth forming into half a smile and he took another step towards her – looking more menacing than seductive. “I’m sorry to have startled you, but I cannot resist you, Anna, not when we are alone - not when  – “ 

His voice cut short as he suddenly realized that all of the flowers that had been blooming so beautifully only a moment ago, had all closed their blooms and the ones that Anna had held in her hands had wilted completely. In an instant, they all regained their vibrancy, but it was too late. 

He had seen. 

Realisation dawned on his face and he took a step back from her, recoiling. 

“You … you’re one of them.” 

Anna had always loved the greenhouse. She had spent hours there with her mother as a young child, though those memories were hazy now. This wasn’t the first night she’d come to there in the early hours of the morning, reading or putting together bouquets she’d bestow upon the house. 

Anna had smelled the scent of cigars and brandy seconds before she felt Alexander’s hands on her. She doubted she’d ever moved as quick as she did in those following moments, her only thought being that she need to escape, to flee. 

As she did, Anna felt the strange sensation that accompanied her powers as she tried to put as much distance between herself and Alexander. Repulsion, surprise, terror, and something that she couldn’t describe all hit her at once. She hardly heard Alexander speaking as she stared at the flowers and plants surrounding them both. It seemed as if they mimicked Anna’s own desires, flower blossoms closing, vines pulling in tight, leaves retracting... hiding, escaping.

“Stop!” her mind shouted and it seemed as if instantly the greenhouse had returned to normal. She might have thought she imagined it if Alexander hadn’t spoken his next words.

“You... you’re one of them.”

Anna knew she needed to try and regain control of the situation. For a fleeting moment she considered throwing herself at the King in hopes that finally gaining his prize might distract him. But the look on his face told Anna that would not work-- for the first time he was not looking at her like something he wished to possess but instead with horror. Another direction would be necessary.

“Your Highness,” Anna said breathlessly, dropping the bouquet of flowers in her hand onto the bench next to her as she hastily adjusted her robe, wrapping it tightly around her. “I... I’m afraid my dear brother may have been too liberal with his brandy pouring this evening,” Anna continued, trying to keep her voice from shaking. She could smell the liquor on his breath. It was the smallest change that she might convince him he had imagined everything.

“It would be quite easy in the dark to mistake the greenhouse for the carriage house. If you follow the path back up the hill, you shall surely find your coachmen waiting for you there...” Anna dared to take a step towards him, reaching out to touch his arm and guide him towards the door. “No one need ever know that you were here..”

[thevaleriananna]

thevalerianrose​:

The Calm Before the Storm | Anna & Rose

Anna’s rooms in the Calvert country house were all bright and airy and already had fresh flowers from the hothouse in vases on nearly every surface. Rose lingered a moment in the doorway that connected their rooms, watching her sister take a brush through her long golden air. This was how Rose liked to imagine her sister - calm and happy - with the warm spring air filling up her room from the open window and birds chirping merrily from without. 

She looked like a princess from a fairstory and, seeing her thus, Rose was almost convinced that, day one, Anna truly would live happily ever after. 

Rose caught her own reflection in her sister’s mirror as she came further into the room. Their father was right - they couldn’t be more different. Anna was an angel, a goddess - perfectly arranged in her white dress while her lovely face was framed by perfect curls. Rose, with her sunkissed and freckled cheeks, twice mended skirt, and hair that never seemed to stay in place for long, looked more like she belonged out in the stables with the horses. 

They’d spent the afternoon at the Royal residence for tea with their cousins and no sooner had Rose arrived home had she discarded her white dress with the itchy sleeves for her a more comfortable ensemble (complete with a vest that used to be Charles’s).

“Father’s right,” She laughed, “I am ugly. Perhaps I should have been born a boy.” That was not the first time she had wished that - if she had been a born a boy, she would have been freer (although, she knew, even boys born to Clarence Calvert were far from that). 

Rose climbed up into the open window and sat on the large sill, enjoying the fresh air. “I wish we could stay here, forever.”  

If it wasn’t so far away from Ben and the Wilsons, Rose would have meant it. They hadn’t yet seen Alexander Lambton, however, and Rose while was dreading dinner tomorrow when they would all be forced together for the first time in days, thus far their time had been mostly quiet and peaceful. Their father had kept to his study for most of the day and without his presence, Rose felt like she could breathe again and she hoped that, if only for the moment, Anna felt that way, too. 

Anna sighed, turning to look at her sister. “Did Father actually tell you that?” she asked, standing up from her chair and to stand by her sister near the window. “You know that is absolutely untrue, Rose...” she picked a hairpin out of Rose’s hair that seemed to have gotten lost. “I know you don’t wish for one but I do think we should find you a proper ladies maid... or, at least, come let me put your hair up...”

The maid who currently helped Rose very obviously spent more time trying to find little tidbits of information on the youngest Calvert to report back to their father. While Anna knew the Rose wouldn’t be the easiest of people to help prepare for the day, she did think her sister deserved a maid who she could trust. 

Perching on the edge of the windowsill across from Rose, Anna relished in the breeze and the crisp scent of the countryside. She felt so much more at peace when they were at their country home.

“I do as well,” Anna replied to Rose with a smile. Being outside the city had always been a sanctuary. Anna would never imagine what would soon befall her.

“What if I change and we go down by the creek this afternoon?” Anna suggested. She knew Rose longed for the days when they were young and free to run about as they wished. “It has been far too long since I’ve made one of my famous flower crowns.

[thevaleriananna]

thevaleriancordelia​:

Crisis Avoided | Anna & Cordelia

Cordelia took her cousin’s hand in her own, “Anna, you are not to worry! I’ve put awful thoughts in both of our heads, and I’m determined to make it right.” Although Cordelia was convinced that Alexander was so eager to go to the country simply because he would find it easier to get himself into Anna’s bed, she would not have Anna feel she was to blame for the arrangement, even if it had been her suggestion. One way or another, Cordelia surmised, this would have become an option for the royal party to sojourn in the country and at least, this way, Cordelia could do what she could to put the proper safety precautions in place. 

Anna had enough to worry over, as it was, and Cordelia was determined not to let Anna be alone for a moment (in the city or country, as long as she could help it). 

Cordelia laughed, “Yes! And Henry can be very distracting, if he desires to. I know he cannot resist gambling, especially when good whiskey is involved, and he would be more than eager to spend his nights betting Alexander Lambton that he can beat him at cards and billiards. Although he would have to suffer his company, I believe Henry would see the brightside that he is not likely to lose, whatever happens. He will best Alexander if he wins and lose his father’s money if he does not.” 

Cordelia sighed, “I know she and G are good friends, but … “ The truth was, Cordelia never really cared for Clara. She found her to be bossy and spoiled and sometimes she felt that she too advantage of G’s kindness. G had always denied this whenever Cordelia ventured to bring it up and Cordelia remained unsure if whether G was blinded by her sweetness or Cordelia by her tendency to be overprotective and distrusting when it came to her sister, but it had always made Cordelia less than fond of her sister’s friend, “… I do not think she deserves John. He is one of the most selfless people I know and he’s certainly doing everything he can to be good to her, but it is clear to everyone that she finds him completely uninteresting. I did notice a sudden change in her behavior at the Yuletide ball, but it has come on so suddenly, I do not think I can trust it.” She had not noticed that Clara was enjoying toying with Ernest Lambton who had made his interest in her known. 

Cordelia laughed, “It seems they have decided not to push Henry in any direction, just now. I wish I had his luck!” She was half convinced that Henry would never marry, at all. He had little desire to continue the Craven bloodline - that he said he would leave up to better men and his brother was just the one to do it. She suspected he would drag his feet until his father died and then never think of it again, unless it suited him. 

“I’m sure Edward will join us. I don’t think he will enjoy it, but I know Flora will beg him to come and he cannot say no to anything she asks. Perhaps I might even get him to smile?” She said, teasingly, “If I accomplish that, surely we will be halfway towards being a love match.” 

Anna smiled and squeezed Cordelia’s hands at her cousin’s assaurances. “You know very well I cannot help but worry, but I shall do my best. We must try to make the best of the situation. One sour grape should not ruin the bunch!” 

Anna had always been prone to worrying but tried to push her concerns from her mind. Much like Cordelia, she knew that they would have undoubtedly found themselves in the country regardless of who suggested it. At least, for Anna’s sake, she could retire to the Calvert’s own home should she find herself in need of solitude. Despite her worries, she was eager to see how the gardeners had been tending to her mother’s greenhouses since their last visit.

“I quite agree...” Anna said with a sigh. She very much wished John were a bit more like his brother, but he wished to please his family and, thus, might end up wed to one of the silliest girls in the land. “I can hardly imagine what woman would deserve John Craven, in truth. There is hardly a man as kind as he. Clara does not realize how lucky she might be...”

Anna let out a small laugh at Cordelia’s description of Henry. “It is good he is on our team, I think. I wish I knew what happened between he and Howard... we used to see him about the house much more often.” Henry had now befriended another Calvert brother, but those meetings took place far from the prying eyes of her father. 

“I do wish Edward were just the slightest bit happier... I do not understand what that man has to be so sour about,” Anna said with a sigh. Never would she imagine their internal struggles were the same. “But perhaps a trip to the country will change his demeanour as well? Though I may be putting too much faith in the country air...”

[diver5ion]

[thevaleriananna]

thevaleriancharles​:

A Quiet Morning || Anna + Charles

Relief settled over Charles like a cotton blanket and his smile became a laugh.  “Oh, Anna, I could not be more relieved to hear you say anything in the world!  I did not wish to wound you, of course, if you saw something in him I cannot, but I think him the most odious man I have ever met…which I also consider to be quite an accomplishment, as I am well acquainted with our father,” he added, a touch teasing.  Charles’ relationship with his father was a deeply complex one, as Charles on some level longed for his approval even while knowing it to be unobtainable.  He also thought it was possible Clarence may be a worse person, but he was not so overbearingly boorish in company and that, at least, was something, though not very much.  

“I quite agree,” continued Charles, more seriously.  “Whatever his ultimate intentions - honorable or not - the king certainly seems to view you as a prize to be won rather than a partner to cherish.  That is not the fate I would have for you…or anyone, of course,” he added with a shrug.  “Save perhaps His Majesty, himself, if our royal cousin does, in fact, mean to marry him.”  Charles hoped not, if for no other reason than to ensure that Alexander never saw Anna again.

Charles’ brows arched in shock.  “Why, Anna, I think that is perhaps the most unforgiving speech I have heard you make all year,” he declared, astonished, teasing…and even a touch pleading.  He understood well enough the reasons Anna might not wish to see her brother treated by someone he adored with anything but mutual adoration, but all the same it pained him to hear her speak this way.  

Charles liked to imagine that someday he and Maria might mend their differences and, when they did, he liked to hope that she and the rest of his family would lovingly embrace each other.  Yet, if even Anna could not cotton to her, it did not spell a warm welcome if ever Charles should make Maria his wife.  But, even more to the point, Charles was a loyal soul and, caring for Maria as he did, he could not do other than defend her.

“She merely teases, that is all.  She means no harm!  And, in any case, I vex her as well.  She has made her feelings perfectly clear to me.  It is I who cannot seem to break with mine.”  His was a stubborn heart.  “She is more than she seems to be, Anna.  I feel so sure that, if you truly came to know her, you would lov–esteem her as greatly as I do.”  Charles may have been wrong on this, but he was an optimistic soul and liked to think that all could be worked through merely given time and the right ingredients.

Anna got up and strolled to the edge of the pond.  Reaching out, Charles closed up the fish food canister and put it away.  He looked at her intently as she spoke.  He nodded slowly.  “I understand,” he replied.  “For what it’s worth, Anna, I doubt as a single soul amongst our acquaintance should be found to be a sorcerer.  It is, of course, natural to worry about others, particularly given how generous a soul you have, but I believe the menace to be an infinitesimal fraction of the Valerian population.  In truth, I think we will find only one or two for each thousand in our nation.  It only seems to be a larger population because each individual witch possesses such great power, but I firmly believe it is an illusion that there is any great population of them.”  He paused.  “It is sad to think of,” he admitted, somberly.  “But doesn’t the greater good outweigh it?  For each of those poor families that suffer for that loss, a hundred more are spared the pain that person might have caused.”

Hearing her speak of this, Charles grew quiet.  Her argument appealed to him greatly – Charles was no hateful person who loved the idea of lives lost, in fact, he thought of his machine as one which was, at its core, to save lives, even if it accomplished this by eradicating others.  Yet, if he could save them all…was that not far more noble.

Charles rubbed his chin thoughtfully.  “This notion does appeal greatly,” he began, softly.  “But I fear you overestimate my abilities.  I may show some passing mastery of mechanical things, it is true, but what you suggest, I fear, would fall under the jurisdiction of a doctor.  I lack the skill to manipulate human bodies…Yet, it seems to me, there being a physical difference, that such a procedure must be possible, if we can only conduct further study.  I will do what research books may offer and see if I cannot suggest the notion to other minds better suited to the purpose.  Indeed, such a procedure, in tandem with my device, may serve to pinpoint the disease in many before it ever takes hold and thus prevent even more harm than it would paired with a weapon.  What do you make of that, Anna?  Your idea might well be saving lives before many years are out, if we can make a sustainable motion of it in the right circles.”  He smiled softly.  “Perhaps your unfortunate connection with a king might make itself useful, after all.  Certainly, his endorsement would help, I’ve little doubt.”

Anna grinned at her brother’s reaction to her assurances. “He is not...” she paused, considering her words. “He is not necessarily who I would wish to spend my time with if our duty to our family were not the case,” she finally concluded.

“I cannot even begin to imagine what a marriage between the King and Margot would even begin to look like. He is not the sort of man I would ever imagine dear Margot to marry...”

Anna pursed her lips slightly as Charles spoke of Maria King. Miss King was one subject where her brother’s mind could not be swayed. What Charles considered teasing, Anna saw as a woman being unnecessarily cruel. Charles thought her such a remarkable woman but Anna had yet to see anything that might make her even begin to consider Maria as a worthy match for her brother. Charles needed someone who found his eccentricities endearing, who embraced his dedication to his work, who saw through the oddities that Charles was one of the kindest and most caring men in the kingdom-- that was clearly evident as he was in love with a woman treated him with contempt. 

“It is clear that there is something I am missing. You are the smartest man I know and would never find yourself drawn to just any woman,” Anna replied kindly. Despite her strong personal feelings about Maria, she would never say much more about it than she already had. “And you are quite right... I should perhaps find a way to know her better.”

Listening to Charles speak of witches amongst their population only made Anna feel much more alone with her secret. She observed her brother as he spoke, trying to predict how he might react should she tell him of her condition... but she could not. Charles was her brother, of course, but entirely devoted to his cause.

“It is impossible to overestimate your abilities,” Anna informed him with sincerity. “But Charles if you think it might be possible... you must pursue it!” Anna continued. “Do you think you might find a doctor who might join your cause? I can only imagine one who devotes their life to healing others would be eager to find a way to stop the ending of human life...” 

“It is quite funny you should mention the King...” Anna replied to Charles’s comment. “Last night I mentioned you work to him and he spoke of your good work and that he mentioned that he would be interested in supporting your efforts. While I am not neccessarily eager to invite him into our home-- I know Rose will have much to say when she finds out!-- but perhaps for the good of all, I thought I might invite him to luncheon so that you could tell him more about your work. Do  you think we might manage one unpleasant lunch for the good of Valeria, dear brother?”

[thevaleriananna]

thevalerianalexander​:

Conversations || Anna + Alex

“Hmm, yes. An excellent match your father has made between your brother and Miss Craven. She’s rich and he’s handsome.” That was exactly what he hoped in a marriage when it came to his impending union with the Queen. She had more than enough money for the both of him and he was, he felt, undeniably good-looking. “I’m sure you are quite happy for them, hm? You shall gain a sister in Edith Craven.” 

Alexander nodded his approval when he heard that Charles Calvert felt he was close, now, to finding a way to reserve the unnatural abilities many seemed to possess. He disliked the notion that someone might be able to overpower him and even though he would never admit it aloud to anyone, he feared them. Every last one. And he meant to see them all gone. 

“I hope your good Queen is doing everything she can to finance this important work of your brother’s. If not, he may count upon my full support.” If he was as bright as everyone said he was, Alexander would consider him to be an important investment. “I should very much like to meet him one day.” Truth be told, he didn’t care much to actually make his acquaintance beyond the time it would take for him to assess how competent the man was. He supposed he cared to meet him as Anna’s brother, as well, but only to make her happy. He doubted he had much of interest to say to Alexander beyond what only cover a few minutes. 

“Of course. A cure is the best solution.” To this, Alexander wholeheartedly agreed. He wanted them extinct and while he had no opposition to killing every last man, women, and child who exhibited this behavior, but if they could strip them of their powers, all the better. Alexander relished the moment he could watch the strength leave them and see to them powerless and weak. “Of course, they must be taken care of, one way or another.” 

He turned and raised an eyebrow, “Hiding? Whatever is she hiding from?” Hiding with Genevieve, she had said, which led Alexander to believe that she was just as shy and silly and out of place as the Queen’s youngest sister. He would have no interest in her if she was, but that was much more preferable to the foolish, headstrong, stubborn girl that Cordelia was proving to be. 

It took Anna a few moments to process what the King had said in regards to her brother and Edith Craven’s engagement. Rich and handsome? Was that all it took? It was not too much of a stretch to believe, however, that those two simple attributes would be enough for the man standing in front of her.

In truth, despite the fact her brother had been rather cold and distant as of late, Edith Craven was not the sort of woman she imagined her brother marrying. She was the completely opposite of either of her brothers-- in truth, with her penchant for dramatics, she was much similar to the Lady Craven herself. Anna could not imagine her brother spending his life alongside that sort of woman.

“I shall gain another sister, yes,” Anna finally replied. “And the Calverts and Cravens shall finally be united in marriage after years of friendship,” Anna continued. That might be a bit of a stretch-- there was no love lost between Lord Craven and her father. 

“My dear cousin supports my brother as best she can,” Anna replied, glancing down at her hands, picking at a spare bit of thread. If she were forced to spend time with the king, should she not perhaps see if she might sway his influence to aid in her brother’s research? “But she finds her hands tied by the council, you see,” Anna continued. “It seems as if they are divided on whether the council should allot funds towards scientific advancement or instead give it all to the Witch Hunter’s task force,” Anna explained, expertly toeing the line between seeming as if she was more informed than a lady should be. The King had made it clear he did not value intelligence in a woman. “I am sure Charles would be most happy to tell you more about his work and would be most grateful should you extend your patronage to him.”

Anything to help her brother... anything to help find a way to cure her of this curse before anyone found out.

“Ah... well...” Anna turned her attention back from John, who unfortunately did not meet her gaze. “I am sure it has not gone unnoticed to such a observant man as yourself that my youngest cousin is much less... extrovert that her sisters. Such a sweet girl but quite shy,” Anna explained. “My sister Rose and Genevieve have always been close so Rose will often keep her company at this events.. I would imagine they might be occupying one of the side chambers as we speak,” Anna continued quickly, not wishing the king to thing her sister or youngest cousin were odd.

[thevaleriananna]

thevalerianrose​:

Sisterly Affection | Rose & Anna

Anna’s promise was not good enough and did little to satisfy Rose’s concerns for her sister’s future. That Anna would always be near would remain true regardless of whatever horrible man their father picked out for her. That much, at least, Rose was certain of. He would select a man of considerable wealth and status and such a man was only to be found with at least one home near the capitol. Even Alexander Lambton, who was king in another country, would surely spent a great deal of time here. Marrying Margot meant uniting their kingdoms, and Valeria was superior to his own home, in every way. Even Alexander, himself, had eluded to such. (Rose suspected, however, that most of it was his own doing). 

Rose never feared for being parted from her sister - for if she was unable to run away with her and Charles, than Rose felt that neither she nor her brother would care to leave. What was an escape from this world if they must leave behind a most precious sister to suffer in it? 

But Rose was realistic enough to know, too, that Anna should never make a promise she never intended to keep and that her dutiful nature would not allow her to go against their father’s wishes. Rose knew that she could not receive a promise to leave everything behind from Anna today, but she also would not give up hope that, one day, they would all be free of it all. The only trouble was, Rose realized, was that for Anna to truly wish to abandon her father and his wishes, would mean that things would first have to become even worse than they were now. 

Rose impulsively threw her arms around her sister and pulled her into a tight embrace. She suddenly felt like she might cry, imagining what might be in store for her sister and she didn’t want Anna to see her tears. She hadn’t cried in front of anyone since she was a little girl and she had no intention of doing so again. “I love you, Anna,” She whispered softly. “Don’t ever go too far away,” 

She wished she could promise that she wouldn’t ever let anything happen to her sister, but, like Anna, would not make any promises she could not keep.

When she let go, her eyes were dry and she managed a laugh, switching the conversation back to Ben Wilson - who was suddenly a more desirable topic of conversation. “Well, if Ben was in love with me, I don’t think even he would know if it was true. He’s rarely self aware,” She giggled, shaking her head. 

When Anna brought up Francine Abington, Rose suddenly brightened, “Oh, Anna - do you really think father would let me go, if such arrangements could be made?” Suddenly, all of her troubles for forgotten in that instant. All she could think of was her desire to see the world - something she never thought would be possible with her father’s approval. “I’ve never wanted a stuffy old aunt more than in this moment,” She teased, “Oh, Anna - imagine what it would be like to see the Valerian coast and the mountains of Fadrea! To explore the old museums in the cities and to meet people of all walks of life!” 

Anna squeezed her sister tightly when Rose suddenly embraced her. Anna wished more than anything that she could take away all of Rose’s distress, but she knew there was nothing she could say short of lying to ease Rose’s concerns. 

“I love you too,” Anna replied softly. “I promise I never will.”

Anna would never lie to her sister. 

“I think that’s often how it happens,” Anna replied slowly. “Being in love with someone, I mean. I think often one just suddenly realizes how they feel about another person. But,” Anna added quickly, “Again, the does not mean anything. Friendships are equally important as romantic relationships. More important, even!” 

Rose’s response to her suggestion made Anna break into a bright smile. She had been worried Rose might think Anna was trying to send her off so that she would not be privy to their father’s affairs. Anna knew her sister longed to travel and have adventures but there father had never been the sort of man who wished to stray much farther than their country home. 

“I will be happy to speak with him about it,” Anna told her sister. “I do believe I might be able to persuade him, especially if we have most of the details planned out in advance. Our lack of a stuffy old aunt is a bit of a problem, so we must think on who know that might be up to such a trip. Perhaps our cousins might be of help...” Anna mused. There would have to be someone in the court who would like to chaperone the queen’s cousin on her grand tour.

Rose’s countenance changed to drastically at the thought of travel that Anna knew she must do what she could to convince their father to send Rose on her travels. She couldn’t bear to think of her sister here, fretting and feeling helpless, being forced into ballrooms where she did not wish to be. 

“It all sounds like such a wonderful trip, Rose, and I know you have longed to travel so. I shall do whatever I can to convince father to allow this for you. And I shall wait eagerly for each letter updating me on your travels and adventures! Speaking of, does Charles not have some maps in his laboratory? Perhaps he shall let us borrow them so we might start charting out your travels!”

[vormirjumper]

SCARLETT JOHANSSON as Olivia Wenscombe in THE PRESTIGE (2006) 

[thevaleriananna]

thevaleriancordelia​:

Crisis Avoided | Anna & Cordelia

“Excellent!” She tapped on the window of the carriage and informed the driver of their new destination. “A walk in the park it is!” Cordelia could think of no better way to spend this afternoon: Anna was right in that the weather had finally broken. The sun was shining and the snow was starting to melt. Cordelia, herself, hoped that spring was finally on the way. There were too many unwanted guests in the castle, nowadays, and little place to go to escape them. 

She raised a suspicious eyebrow, “Everyone becoming more relaxed is what I am afraid of.” The King’s best behavior did little to recommend him, at all, and Cordelia had no intention of seeing him more at ease. 

Cordelia couldn’t help but smile when her cousin pointed out that she thought these things through more carefully than Anna, “No, I’m afraid it is only that I am much more likely to find fault with everyone, where you are determined to give them all the benefit of the doubt. I shall see what Margot can do, but if her hands are tied, I suppose we must both have your positive attitude of hoping for the best, while using my negative one to prepare for the worst.” 

She paused, “If we must go, we must make sure to surround ourselves with friends. The Seymours and the Lowrys both warrant an invitation, of course. We should certainly invite the Cravens. I have no doubt that Lady Craven will find the fresh country air just the thing to cure her latest ailment.” And, she thought, no doubt cause another on their arrival back to town.

“I’ve put us in such a terrible situation,” Anna said with a sigh, staring out the window as the carriage turned towards the park. Turning back to Cordelia, she shook her head slightly. “Filling out the party with as many guests as possible will be to our advantage, you are correct. I am sure Howard will take the King shooting and if we dare put Henry in his presence, perhaps he might keep him occupied with whiskey and billiards... And I am sure you are correct in your thought that Lady Craven will undoubtedly make a speedy recover to join us,” Anna added with a chuckle. 

“I’m sure you’ve heard,” Anna said, leaning in closer to Cordelia as if there were anyone else in the carriage who would overhear them. “That Lord and Lady Craven are pushing John to marry Clara Seymour. She’s quite sweet but she does not seem the correct match for him, do you think? Poor John... it seems as if Henry has resisted marriage long enough that his parents have given up!”

“Do you believe your fiancee will come? A country excursion does not seem to be something he would enjoy terribly...” Anna, in truth, hoped he would not. He was always so ill tempered and it broke her heart to think that her lively cousin was being forced to marry such a sour man. 

[thevaleriananna]

thevalerianalexander​:

Conversations || Anna + Alex

“Hmm, indeed,” Alexander’s gaze momentarily drifted from Anna to that of her father. Clarence Calvert had stayed close to the couple for most of their conversation but had since given them a bit more privacy - something which Alexander had noted. “Your father is a good man, my lady, and I know that he is certainly considering your future happiness when selecting a young man to be your protector. I do believe a large house in the country with a family of your own may be in your future.”

Alexander, himself, meant to father many sons. Of course any child he would have with Anna would be a bastard, and therefore unable to inherit the crown, but if it was a family she wanted, a family she should have. 

He briefly was at a loss for words when she asked him if he had met her brother. The answer was, yes, but he was less inclined to recount the circumstances of it. Alexander did not like to appear to be the fool, especially in front of Anna. The truth was that he had mistaken Charles Calvert for a servant, but Alexander was not about to say as much to her. 

He acted as though he was taking a moment to consider it, and, finally, replied with, “… no, I do not believe I have had the pleasure. But it seems he is doing important work - so it does not surprise me that we have not yet crossed paths. The sooner we learn how to destroy the witches and all who aide them, the better.” Alexander was not afraid of them, as so many were - he had no doubt that his own superiority would win out in any fight against them, were he ever to meet one - but he did believe that they should be destroyed. They were freakish things: women bred with devils, the lot of them. 

“I can say with certainty that i have never met your sister, either. Is she here tonight?” He had been eager to meet her, if only to see if she had the same appeal as her older sister, but the comment Anna had made about her being up for adventure, suggested that perhaps she would be just as irksome and frustrating as Anna’s cousins were.  

Anna had noticed her father drifting farther and farther away from the pair as well. She had continued to protest at any mention that her father was hoping that she was the one he hoped to marry the king of Valeria, but a very small part of her was beginning to wonder if she was in fact the one who was wrong in this circumstance. She tried her best to push the thought from her mind but it hung there; she was unable to shake it. 

Smiling, she nodded in response to the king’s assessment of her father. “My father is nothing if not devoted to his family. I know he was quite pleased upon Howard and Edith’s engagement. I can only imagine securing futures for one’s children must weigh heavily upon all fathers’ minds,” she mused. 

She only hoped that her father’s mind did not spend too much time thinking on how best to make Rose’s future as miserable as possible.

“It would not be surprising that you have not met my brother, Charles,” Anna commented, her face not revealing that she knew about the interaction between the King and Charles earlier that month. Rose had been howling with laughter one afternoon upon Anna’s arrival in the conservatory with some lunch for Charles. Between her retelling through her laugher and a few details being filled in by Charles as he fiddled with some gears at his desk, she’d managed to get the tale. “I often find myself in his laboratory checking to make sure he had remembered to eat. But you are correct, he is doing the most important work. In fact the last time he updated me on his studies, he said that he might perhaps begin working on something to help reserve the... condition,” she paused, trying not to falter over her words as her mind screamed your condition! over and over.

“Do you not think it might be better to find a way to aide and cure those who are afflicted rather than sentencing them to death?” Anna asked, genuinely interested in his answer.

“My sister Rose is in attendance tonight...” Anna said slowly, turning her head to survey the room. “She is often hiding out somewhere with our cousin Genevieve however... Oh! There is John... He perhaps has seen where she might have disappeared to this evening. The Cravens and Calverts have spent many a part in this room so you might say we are experts knowing all the hiding spots.”

[thevaleriananna]

thevalerianrose​:

Sisterly Affection | Rose & Anna

“And all of them stupid,” Rose said, crossing her arms, sinking into the sofa cushions, “The only thing father should be concerned with, is your happiness first, and then the good of the country, second. And pushing your - or Margot! - to marry Alexander Lambton cannot be good for either.” 

Rose didn’t like to hear Anna talk that way - so resigned. “But I do worry!” She grabbed her sister’s hands in her own, “I can’t help it! Everything is changing so fast and I can’t bare it. Whatever he has planned for you, it will not make you happy. Oh, Anna, if I can find a way - a real way - for us to somehow escape this, would you come with me?” 

Rose already felt like she was drowning - and whatever time she thought she had was slowly running out. If they did nothing, soon they would wake all and they would all be spread across the country - each unhappily married and alone.

“I-I’m sorry, Anna,” Rose whispered, apologizing for the curse. She was embarrassed that she spoke that way in front of her sister, but also become aware of just how loud she bad been. 

“He just makes me so angry! Ben’s the most frustrating boy I’ve ever met. Yes, we’ve been friends for a long time, but why does that mean he must fall in love with me? Can’t I be friends with a boy without him wanting to complicate things?“ 

When her sister asked if she was in love with Ben, she couldn’t help but laugh. “Me? Of course not! The very thought is ridiculous. Can you imagine being married to Ben Wilson? It sounds exhausting.” 

If she was being honest, being married to anyone sounded exhausting to Rose. Even John Craven - who she almost considered admitting she had feelings for just so her sister would stop asking if she had feelings for Ben- wasn’t someone she wanted to marry. 

“We only get bored of each other if we were forced to spend every day together. Can’t he see that it is much better this way?” 

“Father is not--” Anna began but stopped as Rose grabbed her hands. She could see the distress in her sister’s eyes as she spoke. Anna hated it-- hated that her sister seemed to be being slowly suffocated by their world, by her own father.

“Rose...” Anna said quietly, squeezing her sister’s hands gently in her own. She couldn’t go, even if Rose figured some way to get out of this life she’d been forced into. Clarence Calvert would go to the ends of the earth to bring Anna back if she tried to leave with her sister. But Anna couldn’t say that, not now, not at Rose stared at her with such desperation.

“I promise you Rose that no matter what happens, I will never leave you. You’ll always have a home with me and I’ll never be far away,” she finally conceded. It was the best she could do and she meant it. 

“Oh goodness...” Anna placed a hand over her mouth to hide her smile as Rose ranted about Ben. “No, no no... you under no obligation to be in love with any boy you befriend! I shouldn’t have said a thing-- Rose, I might be completely mistaken. I hardly know him!” she said quickly, attempting to backtrack her statements. With so many things changing around them, Anna instantly regretting mentioning it. Rose needed something stable in her life and her friendship with Ben had been such a positive constant for years, she didn’t want to ruin that for her sister as well. 

“Rose...” Anna began slowly. “You know I’ve been thinking... do you remember Francine Abington? She and I socialized a bit when I was first coming out? You might not... regardless, I remember her younger sister spending some time traveling with their.. great aunt, I believe. They visited all sorts of historic and culture sites around Valeria and Fadrea... oh I cannot even remember where else. Anyway I’ve been thinking... what if I spoke to Father about arranging something similar for you? Obviously we don’t have some great aunt to chaperone you but I’m sure we could find someone... I would miss you desperately, of course, but imagine the adventure!”

[thevalerianwars]

ANNA CALVERT - TAKEN BY KATE Age: 24 Portrayal: Scarlett Johnansson Ability Focus: Plants/Earth Alliance/Occupation: Uncertain/Duchess Relationships: Clarence Calvert (father), Howard Calvert, Charles Calvert (brothers), Rose Calvert (sister), Marguerite Stafford, Nicholas Stafford, Cordelia Stafford, Genevieve Stafford (cousins), Alexander Lambton (unwanted flirtation), Cora Ellis, Lucy Allen, John Craven, Theodore Clarke, Alfred Clarke (best friends), Arthur Allen (interest), Sarah Wilson (romantic rival) 

the perfect lady!!!! 

caring and kind and soft spoken

so accomplished!!!!! 

knows how to do everything?!?!?? 

honestly even caroline bingley would call her accomplished!!! 

how does she do the things she does?? when does she sleep??? no one knows???

always super obedient

her father’s favorite!

you wouldn’t know it to meet her, but feels trapped in her life

doesn’t really see any alternative future for herself, however, so she just does her best w/ what she can control

loves her siblings more than anything!!!!

wants the best for them

recently discovered that she has ~abilities

fREAKING OUT on the DL about this!!!!!! 

not sure what to do!1!!1! 

knows that she will be killed if she is discovered

has also been taught from the cradle that all sorcerers are dangerous and evil and she is wondering if she is too!!

part of her thinks that she should speak up so that she can be put to death b/c she hurts anyone!!! 

while the other part of her is starting to question if that’s true or not? (but also wondering if she truly believes that or if she’s just too much of a coward to come forward!) 

is not blind to the attentions that alexander lambton has been paying her!

wishes he would look elsewhere!!! 

doesn’t think she can afford to anger him 

her father is also suPER encouraging of his attentions, even though alexander is here to potentially marry anna’s cousin!!!

it’s weird

has some budding feelings for arthur allen, the older brother of one of her closest friends

knows he had some feelings for a farmer’s daughter once and, although they weren’t able to marry, she knows he will likely never love anyone else but her

anna is certain he won’t ever love her 

honestly hopes that he does end up marrying sarah wilson!!!!

b/c they’d be so happy!!!

[victoriansuggestion]

revolt against the domestic tyranny of a respectable elderly gentleman of irascible disposition

[thevaleriancordelia]

Crisis Avoided | Anna & Cordelia

[thevaleriananna]

thevaleriancordelia‌:

“Yes! I’m quite sure he does,” Cordelia agreed, “That’s what’s so worrisome.” Plans made by her uncle rarely coincided with anything good and she was certain that this would not prove to be an exception. “I think it’s more likely that he’s doing what he feels would be best for him and the family name and reputation, which is not always the same thing as his family.” 

“Less than ideal? Anna, he’s horrid. In fact, an improved Alexander Lambton would still be considered less than ideal. Which is why I can’t quite make out what your father hopes to gain from the relationship. I would have thought even he would be able to see that aligning yourself with him would be to tie oneself to a sinking ship.” 

He may have a crown and a country to his name, but what could would one be (even to someone like Clarence Calvert) once he had managed to completely destroy the other? 

“And what a pleasant coincidence that was,” Cordelia said, rolling her eyes as the conversation turned to John and Henry’s mother. She had little patience for Lady Craven who was always ill, except when it suited her not to be. She had always been overly kind to Cordelia, but she knew that this attentioned stemmed only from the fact of who she was and, she imagined, that the lady was just as eager as her husband that Cordelia’s friendship with either of their sons would turn into something more. She never saw her do or say anything purely out of her own goodness: every act of kindness she bestowed was only ever with the hopes that she might, one day, profit from it. 

Cordelia wondered if she she had loved Henry or John if she might not marry them, simply to spite their insufferable mother! 

But Anna’s own concern for the Lady was quite genuine and Cordelia, not wanting to cause her cousin any distress, kept her more uncharitable comments about her to herself (for now, at least, she would happily share them with Henry later). 

“So, if we cannot visit the Cravens nor do I think it safe for us to head to the palace, where then shall we go?” While Cordelia did think that there was a high probability that both Craven brothers would be distracted with various discomforts (John’s with his mother’s and Henry with his own), the truth was, she was eager not to go there, lest they encounter James Wilson. She was afraid that her own emotions would betray her and letting even Anna (who she trusted as much as she trusted anyone) suspect anything on that front was not something Cordelia wanted. She wasn’t as strong in her resolve to carry through with her own engagement as she let on and she feared it would only take some small words of encouragement from her cousin to throw all caution to the wind. She did not care to risk it. 

“Perhaps into the city?” She offered. 

“Oh, Anna,” Cordelia’s heart sank at the prospect of them all retiring to the country home for a few days. Normally, she would have encouraged such a scheme, but when the company would include the King, she was more than a little hesitant. “She has not, but I think it is an awful idea! It’s bad enough to have him as a guest at the palace, I cannot imagine what it would be like, living together in a more intimate setting. You’ve seen how he conducts himself at court! Can you fathom what he must be like elsewhere?” She shook her head, “Do you think there’s a chance there’s time to alter the plans? Is he very set on the idea? If so, I think we ought to insist we invite as many of our friends as we can.” 

There would be too many opportunities for him to find a moment alone with Anna or Margot … and Cordelia hated to think what might happen if he did. 

Anna decided to say no more regarding her father, focusing instead on trying to find a place for the pair to visit that day.

“I agree... Perhaps it is not advisible to visit the Cravens unannounced with Lady Craven in such a delicate condition. I do think a trip into town would be lovely. Shall we perhaps take a stroll through the park? I am so happy the weather has turned warmer. I find my mood immediately brightens when the option of being out of doors returns.”

“Oh... oh dear...” Anna began wringing her hands at Cordelia describing the idea to retire to the country as a terrible idea. She had only considered the hopefully positive affections of taking a party away from the court, not the negatives. “I thought perhaps being away from court might allow everyone to become more relaxed and, though I cannot imagine he will ever be the sort of man to marry dear Margot, perhaps the King might be the slightest bit more bearable to be about? I never seem to thing these things through as well as you...” Anna sighed, looking out the window for a moment before back at her cousin. 

“I do believe he is very set upon the idea and I may have encouraged the notion in him. I suppose I was too enticed by the idea of being away from the city for even a short while... Oh, Cordelia, I’ve created such a terrible situation for everyone! Perhaps Margot might devise a reason we cannot travel at this time?”

Though she understood her cousin’s reasons for being hesitant to take a party away from court, she was still disappointed that such an outing might not take place. 

[sjohanssonsource]

The Prestige [2006]