Great scene with the soldiers.

Oh! Matthew using a corpse to steady his rifle and to keep cover!

I didn't know about that cease-fire with the horns. Was that really common in World War I? It seems a very convenient reprieve.

I really liked Alex's 'speak freely' line. Nice job depicting the tension between the two soldiers, and the difference between their friendship and their military relationship. You're doing a great job of depicting how long and wearying and frustrating and tiring the war is.

A great opening sequence with Matthew back at war, and the state of things. Very well written, powerful, and in-character.

Wow, I *really* dislike Cora, but you're doing a great job making her POV totally understandable. I just don't want to see the Carlisle plot rehashed.

Cute scene with the soldier flirting with all three sisters, and their repartee. :)

Congratulations on your publishing anniversary! Was Flirting really the first story you ever wrote, or just the first DA story?

I'm not sure who makes me gasp in horror more in this chapter. So much to fear! Matthew and his peril keeps me engaged and anxious, while the evil trio of Sir Dick, Cora and Rosamund has me rolling my eyes in exasperation. And then Patrick arrives... oy vey.
Matthew and Alex give me hope though, fastening my seat belt and ready to hold on!

So excited to see updates.

I really love this story. You do a great job showing what is happening in England and what is happening at the front. You really capture the stupidity of some of the orders, and how the soldiers knew the orders were stupid, but had follow them. I feel like Cora and Rosamund need a big smack. I can't imagine after she was told not to interfere, she still does.

Think it's about time Rosamund and Cora received a few shocking and incriminating photos... and I look forward to their comeuppance!

Uh oh! I forgot my history for a moment, I love that you made Russian backing out a point. I can't wait to see what happens!

If Cora gets any lower she'll be Satan's mistress.
I agree with a guest reviewer in that for all Cora knows she could be handing her daughter over to a rapist.
I used to feel bad for Cora in S2 when Robert had his fling going on with Jane, but in this story I would say go for it Robert!
It would nice to see Cora get a taste of her own medicine.
If Rosamund thinks that Richard is so great then why doesn't she try to get him for herself?
I really don't know what to think of .
That storyline never to anything on the show so I really want to see where you are going to take it.
Poor Matthew(and Mary)he has daggers coming at him from all directions.
Please update soon!

Oh goodness, what is Carlisle scheming now? I can hear the wheels turning in his head!
P. Gordon is apart of this storyline! I know you have something big planned for him.
I can't wait to read what happens next!

Your Cora honestly makes my skin crawl... she could very well be serving her daughter up to be raped if she manages to get Mary alone with Richard.. and I also hope she doesn't realize how much potential danger she's putting her daughter in. But, the canon version can come off as single minded to the point of cold and compassionless at times as well, so good job with a difficult character to pin down.

The battles scenes felt real to me, its so tense and, because of my limited knowledge, I'm not sure about the outcome and fear for Matthew's safety. The war still has events to develop, two more years! Poor Mary that feels the change of Matthews letters and his desperation.

Sir Richard might say everyone wins but we all know he only works in his own benefit. Probably Cora will arrange something in Edith's engagement party.

Very curious about Patrick Gordon and what you'll do with him. The part about fearing imminent death or his wife's wrath made me laugh.

And canon DA is drawing to a close...it's a bit bittersweet for me. I won't see season 6 until starting in January, but I've seen the PBS promos...and not looking forward to the new year. BUT, AU DA continues to live on, thanks to all the great writers of fanfic :-)...oh, when will Richard finally be put to rest?

Oh no! Patrick Gordon has arrived to Downton. Cora and Rosamund continuing to talk with Richard. All of this is occurring to usurp Matthew's life while he is fighting and trying to survive the war. Hopefully, Matthew is allowed to come home safely and soon. Overall, great writing of the details of the war!

Fantastic chapter as ever, I look forwards to the next one and what will happen next.

I am so glad to see an update on thaïs story ! It Is an amazing story, well written and that mates reading It very enjoyable. Looking forward to tour next updates and the updates of your other stories.
:))