Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

BOOM!

A loud crack of thunder sounded as Alexander Hamilton, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, the Marquis de Lafayette, Eliza Schuyler, and Angelica Schuyler appeared in what looked to be a living room.

“JEFFERSON! GET YOUR FOOT OUT OF MY FACE!”

“Ow son, you’re crushing my arm!”

“Sorry George!”

“OW! Angelica, you're pulling my hair! STOP IT!”

After disentangling themselves from one another, the group looked around the room, trying to discover a reason for why they were brought here. The room was very large, and the walls were covered with light blue wallpaper that was illuminated by the sunlight streaming in from the window. Multiple couches surrounded a… big black screen? Curious, Hamilton walked over to it. It had a note attached to it.

So naturally, Alex did what anyone would have done.

He read the note aloud to the group.

“Dear sirs and ladies,

I hope this letter finds you in good health. You are probably very confused as to why you are here, and I am here to tell you that I am the one who brought you to this location. I have called you here today to learn a little more about one of your own, Mr. Hamilton, in the form of a musical sharing his name written by one Lin-Manuel Miranda. It is a visual retelling of Hamilton’s past, as well as one of the many future timelines that is luckily not possible due to the good Secretary accepting President Washington’s request to stay at Mount Vernon for a week. When it is over, the group as a whole will return to whatever it is they were doing before, while still retaining this newfound knowledge.

Certain individuals, including Charles Lee, Margarita Schuyler, King George, John Laurens, and Hercules Mulligan will join the company later on as soon as they would be able to make a difference in the time stream, that difference being positive.

I understand that this may be very complicated, but you will comprehend this in the end. I promise.

Your obedient servant,

Alice Bell

Written in the year 2016”

He looked up when he finished reading, noting the various degrees of shock and curiosity present on the faces of the people in the room as the black box he now knew as a TV turned on.

They all sat down on the couch, preparing themselves to be there for a long time. Alex was in between Thomas and George, Madison was on the left hand side of Thomas, and Eliza, Angelica, and Lafayette all shared their own section of the couch.

Suddenly, music started to play as soon as they finally got comfortable, and the group gathered around the screen to listen intently as Alexander's whole life story was laid out onstage in front of hundreds of viewers.

AARON BURR:

How does a bastard, orphan, son of a whore and a Scotsman,

dropped in the middle of a forgotten

Spot in the Caribbean by

Providence, impoverished, in squalor

Grow up to be a hero and a scholar?

“Magic. It's insane that he came here in the first place.” grumbled James, and Thomas glared at his friend, before scooting closer to Hamilton and putting a protective arm around his shoulder.

Eliza’s jaw dropped, before she composed herself. Who knew these two would be friends?

“Please don't insult Alexander.” said Jefferson.

“I wasn't!” James defensively exclaimed, throwing his hands up in the air in exasperation. Thomas shook his head fondly.

“Suuure. And King George will be involved in a romantic relationship with President Washington, Alex here will be a spy for the British, and pigs will fly.” The whole room (minus Madison of course) bursted out laughing at the ideas Jefferson had put into their heads, and Alex reached over to give Thomas a high five.

“Who knew Thomas would have a sense of humor?”

JOHN LAURENS:

The ten-dollar Founding Father without a father

Got a lot farther by working a lot harder

By being a lot smarter

By being a self-starter

By fourteen, they placed him in charge of a trading charter

THOMAS JEFFERSON:

“Thomas, is that you?” asked Alexander, and Jefferson nodded, smiling at his former nemesis. “Cool!”

 
And every day while slaves were being slaughtered and carted

Away across the waves, he struggled and kept his guard up

Inside, he was longing for something to be a part of

The brother was ready to beg, steal, borrow, or barter

“Steal?” asked Eliza, raising her eyebrows at her husband.

“It was a long time ago.” He shrugged it off, but his eyes looked far away as he was locked in the past.

 
JAMES MADISON:

Then a hurricane came, and devastation reigned

 
Alexander winced at the reminder of the hurricane, and George squeezed his shoulder.

“Son, it's alright. You're here now.”

 
Our man saw his future drip, drippin’ down the drain

Put a pencil to his temple, connected it to his brain

And he wrote his first refrain, a testament to his pain

 
BURR:

Well the word got around, they said, “This kid is insane, man!”

 
“That is indeed true.” Jefferson grinned at his new friend, who very maturely stuck his tongue out at him.

“I think you need to review your definition of insane, my good sir.”

 
Took up a collection just to send him to the mainland

“Get your education, don’t forget from whence you came, and

The world’s gonna know your name!

What’s your name, man?"

ALEXANDER HAMILTON:

 
“Hey, that's me!”

 
Alexander Hamilton

My name is Alexander Hamilton

And there’s a million things I haven’t done

 
“You're damn right about that!” cheered Alexander, and Lafayette nodded.

“Knowing you, mon ami, I am not surprised.”

 
But just you wait, just you wait

ELIZA HAMILTON:

As Eliza's actress, whom according to the Playbill was named Phillipa Soo, started singing, Eliza grinned. 

"Wow, she actually quite closely resembles me!"

When he was ten, his father split, full of it, debt-ridden

Two years later, see Alex and his mother, bed-ridden

Half-dead, sittin’ in their own sick
The scent thick

COMPANY:

And Alex got better but his mother went quick

 
“Alex…” George looked down at the boy he viewed as his own son, who glared at him before turning away. He did not need pity. And from his commanding officer at that! “Son…”

“I'm not your son.” mumbled Alex, slouching in his seat. George felt a pang of grief. So they were back to that again, were they? He'd thought Alex would let him call him son after the time at Mount Vernon.

 
GEORGE WASHINGTON and (COMPANY):

 
“Oh look! It's George!”

 
Moved in with a cousin, the cousin committed suicide

Left him with nothin’ but ruined pride, somethin’ new inside

A voice saying "(Alex) you gotta fend for yourself"

He started retreatin’ and readin’ every treatise on the shelf

BURR and (COMPANY):

There would’ve been nothin’ left to do

For someone less astute

He would’ve been dead or destitute

Without a cent of restitution

Started workin’, clerkin’ for his late mother’s landlord

Tradin’ sugar cane and rum and other things he can’t afford

(Scammin’) for every book he can get his hands on

"I do believe scamming is illegal." Jefferson smirked.

"Shut up, like I stated earlier it was a long time ago."

(Plannin’) for the future, see him now as he stands on (oooh)

The bow of a ship headed for a new land

In New York you can be a new man

COMPANY and (HAMILTON):

In New York you can be a new man (Just you wait)

In New York you can be a new man (Just you wait)

In New York you can be a new man

WOMEN:

In New York

MEN:

New York

HAMILTON:

Just you wait

COMPANY and (COMPANY):

Alexander Hamilton (Alexander Hamilton)

We are waiting in the wings for you (waiting in the wings for you)

You could never back down

You never learned to take your time

Oh, Alexander Hamilton (Alexander Hamilton)

When America sings for you

Will they know what you overcame?

Will they know you rewrote the game?

The world will never be the same, oh

BURR and (COMPANY):

The ship is in the harbor now, see if you can spot him

(Just you wait)

Another immigrant comin’ up from the bottom

(Just you wait)

His enemies destroyed his rep, America forgot him

MULLIGAN/MADISON AND LAFAYETTE/JEFFERSON:

We fought with him

LAURENS/PHILLIP:

Me? I died for him

Alexander’s face showed clear anguish at the nod to his late best friend and first son. George did not look at him with a look of pity this time though, resolving instead to pull his “son” closer to him, despite protests. Lafayette came over to sit by Washington, who smiled when he realized his little “family” was practically reunited.

WASHINGTON:

Me? I trusted him

“Still do,” the man in question smiled at his son, pride shining in his eyes.

ANGELICA SCHUYLER, ELIZA, MARIA REYNOLDS:

Me? I loved him

BURR:

And me? I’m the damn fool that shot him

"No. I am not shot by Burr.  This can't be true! He would never do this!" Alexander shook his head in denial, and The rest of the room was just as shocked as he was. Finally, it was Washington who spoke in an attempt to get his boy to relax, though he was seething on the inside. He knew there was a reason he didn't like Burr!

“Son, calm yourself. Maybe the reason will be revealed later. And remember, this timeline is now invalid anyway.”

Despite the Reynolds Pamphlet, Eliza was glaring at the screen, her hands clenched into fists. "How dare he?"

COMPANY:

There’s a million things I haven’t done

But just you wait

BURR:

What’s your name, man?

HAMILTON & COMPANY:

Alexander Hamilton!

Silence.

It was Angelica who broke it.

"Well, that was informative."

Chapter Text

"Hey look! It's  starting again!"

COMPANY

1776. New York City

HAMILTON
Pardon me. Are you Aaron Burr, sir?

BURR
That depends. Who's asking?

HAMILTON
Oh, well, sure, sir

I'm Alexander Hamilton, I'm at your service, sir

I have been looking for you

BURR
I'm getting nervous

“And for good reason.” muttered James, and Alexander stuck his tongue out at him.

HAMILTON
Sir...

I heard your name at Princeton.

I was seeking an accelerated course of study when I got sort of out of sorts with a buddy of yours.

I may have punched him.

It's a blur, sir. He handles the financials?

“Alexander…” George’s tone was slightly threatening, and Alex grinned at him.

“Washington?” he shot back innocently, causing the General to shake his head fondly. Some things would never change.

BURR
You punched the bursar

HAMILTON
Yes!

I wanted to do what you did.

Graduate in two, then join the revolution.

He looked at me like I was stupid, I'm not stupid

So how'd you do it? How'd you graduate so fast?

“You had only just met him, and you're already running your mouth off. Shocking” drawled Thomas, causing Alex to chuckle.

“Indeed. Looking back, I may have been a bit of what some would call a wild child.” Alex laughed, and George looked at him incredulously.

“You may have been? My dear Alexander you still are one.”

BURR
It was my parents' dying wish before they passed

HAMILTON
You're an orphan. Of course!

I'm an orphan

God, I wish there was a war!

Then we could prove that we're worth more

Than anyone bargained for...

BURR
Can I buy you a drink?

HAMILTON
That would be nice

BURR
While we're talking, let me offer you some free advice

Talk less

Both Musical Hamilton and the actual Hamilton looked astonished. Was that even possible? It was not humanly possible for either of them to talk less! Angelica, Eliza, Gilbert and George laughed at his facial expression, and Thomas just shook his head fondly. Unsurprisingly, James stayed silent, crossing his arms petulantly and looking anywhere but at Alexander or Thomas.

HAMILTON
What?

BURR
Smile more

HAMILTON
Ha

[BURR]
Don't let them know what you're against or what you're for

Washington nodded grudgingly, displaying his approval for Burr’s little proverb. Apparently, despite his faults (he shot his son!) the former Lieutenant Colonel was rather intelligent, something that had not escaped the General’s notice during his time as commander.

HAMILTON
You can't be serious

The aforementioned historical figure had spoken in unison with his musical counterpart, and everyone looked at him in shock, before breaking out in peals of laughter.

BURR
You wanna get ahead?

HAMILTON
Yes

BURR
Fools who run their mouths off wind up dead

“Is that foreshadowing? I mean, no offense mon ami, you do talk a lot. And Burr does end up shooting you in that duel.” Lafayette questioned, and Alex raised his eyebrows.

“Hmm. An interesting thought.”

LAURENS
Yo yo yo yo yo!

“It’s Laurens!” Alex brightened up when he saw his late friend’s actor hop up on the table onstage, his eyes following the man’s every move. Eliza noticed this, but neglected to comment on it.

What time is it?

LAURENS/LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN
Show time!

BURR
...like I said...

LAURENS
Show time! Show time! Yo!

I'm John Laurens in the place to be!

Two pints o' Sam Adams, but I'm workin' on three, uh!

"He always did like his Sam Adams." murmured Alexander.

Those redcoats don't want it with me!

Cuz I will praa chick-a praa these cops till I'm free!

“Praa chick-a praa?” asked George, bemused.

“Must be a modern slang term.”

LAFAYETTE
Oui oui, mon ami, je m'appelle Lafayette!

The Lancelot of the revolutionary set!

I came from afar just to say "Bonsoir!"

Tell the King "Casse toi!" Who's the best?

C'est moi!

MULLIGAN
Brrrah brraaah! I am Hercules Mulligan

Up in it, lovin' it, yes I heard ya mother said "Come again?"

Lock up ya daughters and horses, of course

It's hard to have intercourse over four sets of corsets...

“I did not need to know that.” Thomas muttered, noting how him and the actor playing Lafayette looked eerily similar.

LAURENS
No more sex, pour me another brew, son!

Let's raise a couple more...

LAURENS/LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN
To the revolution!

LAURENS
Well, if it ain't the prodigy of Princeton college!

MULLIGAN
Aaron Burr!

LAURENS
Give us a verse, drop some knowledge!

BURR
Good luck with that: you're takin' a stand

You spit. I'm ‘a sit. We'll see where we land

LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN
Boooo!

Laughter.

LAURENS
Burr, the revolution's imminent. What do you stall for?

HAMILTON
If you stand for nothing, Burr, what'll you fall for?

LAURENS
Ooh

Who are you?

MULLIGAN
Ooh

Who are you?

LAFAYETTE
Ooh

Who are you?

MULLIGAN/LAFAYETTE/LAURENS
Ooh, who is this kid?

What's he gonna do?

“Everything and anything.” Alex proudly stated, holding his head high.

"Ladies and gentlemen, shall we move on to the next scene?" asked Washington, as his comrades nodded eagerly. Just as he finished speaking, the next song began to play...

Chapter Text

Suddenly, after only the first bar of song, the screen went black. A flashing neon sign appeared on it, with a message written in loopy cursive letters:

HAVE NO FEAR. I KNOW SOME OF YOU NEED TO DISCUSS URGENT MATTERS -LOOKS AT PRESIDENT WASHINGTON AND SECRETARY HAMILTON- AND I HAVE ALLOTTED THESE THIRTY MINUTES FOR YOU TO DO SO, STARTING NOW.

The timer below it was set for that amount of time.

As a matter of fact, George did need to discuss something of great importance with Alexander.

“Son, if I may meet with you in private…” George trailed off, touching Alexander’s shoulder lightly. For the first time in a while, the Secretary shrugged off the touch, causing Washington’s expression to show a brief flash of pain.

“Of course, Mr. President. Please don’t call me son.” Alex replied tersely, and followed his leader into a room that had appeared to the side.

They entered, and George closed the door. It closed with a resounding click.

“Alexander. I wish to make this clear. I call you son, because you are my son, in all but blood.” George paused, staring out the window as Alexander interrupted him.

“Your Excellency, I-”

“Shh. Talk less.” The war-hardened Virginian farmer placed a finger to his lips, and Alexander nodded. “You can see it, can’t you? The way I look upon you as the child I never had? And yet you deny my advances for a fruitful relationship of the familial sort. If you won't accept me, please explain why. It would alleviate some of the pain I feel, deep in my heart. Some, not all.”

Washington wished a chair would be there, and one appeared, which he immediately sat down in.

Alexander looked down, and shuffled his feet uncomfortably, unsure of what to say without upsetting the man further.

“Son, I know you lost your biological father from a young age, and understand that you are not seeking to fill that hole in your life. However-” Alexander opened his mouth to interrupt, but George held up a hand. “I am willing to help fill that hole, if you would let me. Even if you don't, you are still family to each and every Washington. Don't ever forget that.”

“I-I,” Hamilton was clearly awed by the proposal, his mouth opening and closing like a fish. “Thank you, Your Excellency. However, I feel that…” He paused, allowing a wicked grin to spread on his face.

Washington felt his heart drop into his stomach. Was the only son he had ever had going to reject him? It certainly seemed like that was going to be the case.

“...I should accept your proposal.” And with that, he did something he never thought he would do. He pulled the stunned President into a tight hug, and now it was Washington who was gaping like a fish. Even given their close relationship they had developed at Mount Vernon two weeks ago, Alex had been retreating into himself more and more as each minute of ‘Hamilton’ passed, revealing more of his past that he had been determined to keep hidden once upon a time.

“So, what shall we do first, father?” Alexander asked Washington, liking the way the word rolled off his tongue with ease. Just his use of the word caused Washington to straighten his back, gazing down at the man he trusted and loved with pride in his eyes.

“It would be the greatest pleasure of my life if you were to take on the Washington name, at long last. Nothing would make me happier than having you legally a part of my family, even though you are already part of it.” said Washington with glee, doing a little jig in his head as Alex nodded enthusiastically.

“Of course! But… how would we do it?”

Just five minutes later, Alexander Hamilton, with the help of the mysterious person who had brought them there in the first place as well as His Excellency, had legally discarded the Hamilton name and was now Alexander Washington.

It was an emotional Father-Son pair that re-entered what they had dubbed “The Watching Room” far later than the thirty minute time limit they had been given.

“What took you two so long?” Madison had asked, causing Thomas to frown at him for what could be classed as rudeness.

“Alexander finally has a father. A true father.”

Chapter Text

Confused, Eliza glanced at her husband. President Washington now had his arm wrapped around the man’s shoulders, which was odd since she knew Alexander was not a fan of physical contact. “What do you mean, Mr. President?”

“Alexander is now legally a Washington, a part of my family. You by extension as well, Elizabeth. And please, call me George.” Washington said gleefully, and Eliza’s eyes widened.

“Oh, Alexander! Congratulations!” Thomas came over, and gave his best friend a hug. “I know how you always yearned for a father.”

‘I need to sit down,’ both Eliza and Angelica thought, simultaneously sitting down in their chairs behind Alexander, Gilbert, George, James, and Thomas.

Lafayette, not being one for missing out on such opportunities, came over to offer his own congratulations, giving both Washingtons a kiss on the cheek, as is the custom in France.

They all stood in a comfortable silence after that, before George gestured toward the TV. “Shall we continue?” He asked, sitting down and pulling a protesting Alexander into his lap.

“We shall.”

Luckily, just then, the screen lit up and once more music began to play...

[HAMILTON]
I am not throwing away my shot!

I am not throwing away my shot!

Hey yo, I’m just like my country

I’m young, scrappy and hungry

And I’m not throwing away my shot!

I’m ‘a get a scholarship to King’s College

I prob’ly shouldn’t brag, but dag, I amaze and astonish

The problem is I got a lot of brains but no polish

I gotta holler just to be heard

“Not that it’s hard for me, I just want to be free.” Alexander interrupted, and everyone looked at him in shock

“My dear, you rhymed.” Eliza stared at her husband. “It even had rhythm.”

“It did? Wow, this style of music must really be growing on me then.” chuckled Alexander, turning back to the screen.

With every word, I drop knowledge!

I’m a diamond in the rough, a shiny piece of coal

Tryin’ to reach my goal. My power of speech: unimpeachable

Only nineteen but my mind is older

These New York City streets get colder, I shoulder

Ev’ry burden, ev’ry disadvantage

I have learned to manage, I don’t have a gun to brandish

I walk these streets famished

The plan is to fan this spark into a flame

All Alexander could do was watch his screen counterpart in awe, following his every move. He sat, too enraptured to even comment on it. The others were just as engaged, and even Madison’s foot could be seen tapping along to the rhythm.

But damn, it’s getting dark, so let me spell out the name

I am the—

[HAMILTON/LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN/LAURENS]
A-L-E-X-A-N-D-E-R—we are—meant to be…

[HAMILTON]
A colony that runs independently

Meanwhile, Britain keeps shittin’ on us endlessly

Essentially, they tax us relentlessly

Then King George turns around,

runs a spending spree

He ain’t ever gonna set his descendants free

So there will be a revolution in this century

Enter me!

[LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN/LAURENS]
(He says in parentheses)

‘Oh I get it! Like a stage direction I think it's called’ Madison thought to himself, startled at the playwright’s sheer ingenuity demonstrated by that one single line. Maybe this show wasn't so bad after all.

[HAMILTON]
Don’t be shocked when your hist’ry book mentions me

I will lay down my life if it sets us free

Eventually, you’ll see my ascendancy

“Without the fame of the Washington legacy!” added Alexander, in rhythm, staring pointedly at Jefferson and Madison as he said it. Washington smiled, placing a hand on his son’s shoulder.

“You’ll earn it on your own, my boy. I'm sure you will.”

[HAMILTON]
And I am not throwing away My shot

I am not throwing away My shot

Hey yo, I’m just like my country

I’m young, scrappy and hungry

And I’m not throwing away my shot

[LAURENS]
My shot!

My shot!

And I’m not throwing away my shot.

[HAMILTON/MULLIGAN/LAURENS/LAFAYETTE]
I am not throwing away my shot

I am not throwing away my shot

Hey yo, I’m just like my country

I’m young, scrappy and hungry

And I’m not throwing away my shot

It’s time to take a shot!

[LAFAYETTE]
I dream of life without a monarchy

The unrest in France will lead to ‘onarchy?

‘Onarchy? How you say, how you say, ‘anarchy?’

When I fight, I make the other side panicky

Lafayette cringed. “My English was so bad back then. Thank Providence it improved.”

With my—

[HAMILTON/LAURENS/LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN]
Shot!

[MULLIGAN]

“HERC!” Both Laf and Alex shouted gleefully, excited to see the fourth member of their quartet make an appearance onstage once again.

Yo, I’m a tailor’s apprentice

And I got y’all knuckleheads in loco parentis

I’m joining the rebellion cuz I know it’s my chance

To socially advance, instead of sewin’ some pants!

I’m gonna take a—

[HAMILTON/LAURENS/LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN]
Shot!

[LAURENS]
But we’ll never be truly free

Until those in bondage have the same rights as you and me

You and I. Do or die.

Wait till I sally in
On a stallion with the first black battalion

Have another—

‘Laurens always was a formidable Abolitionist.’ thought Alexander, sighing at the thought of his old friend.

[HAMILTON/LAURENS/LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN]
Shot!

[BURR]
Geniuses, lower your voices

You keep out of trouble and you double your choices

I’m with you, but the situation is fraught

You’ve got to be carefully taught:

If you talk, you’re gonna get shot!

[HAMILTON]
Burr, check what we got

Mister Lafayette, hard rock like Lancelot

I think your pants look hot

Laurens, I like you a lot

“Isn't that an understatement.” chuckled George quietly, as Alexander grinned at him.

Let’s hatch a plot blacker than the kettle callin’ the pot...

What are the odds the gods would put us all in one spot

Poppin’ a squat on conventional wisdom, like it or not

A bunch of revolutionary manumission abolitionists?

Give me a position, show me where the ammunition is!

Oh, am I talkin’ too loud?

Sometimes I get over excited, shoot off at the mouth

I never had a group of friends before

I promise that I’ll make y’all proud

[LAURENS]
Let’s get this guy in front of a crowd

[HAMILTON/LAURENS/LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN/ENSEMBLE]
I am not throwing away my shot (x2)

Hey yo, I’m just like my country

I’m young, scrappy and hungry

And I’m not throwing away my shot

I am not throwing away my shot (x2)

Hey yo, I’m just like my country

I’m young, scrappy and hungry

And I’m not throwing away my shot

[LAURENS]
Ev’rybody sing:

Whoa, whoa, whoa

Hey!

Whoa!

Wooh!!

Whoa!

Ay, let ‘em hear ya!

Let’s go!

I said shout it to the rooftops!

Said, to the rooftops!

Come on!

Come on, let’s go!

[HAMILTON/LAFAYETTE/
MULLIGAN]
Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!

Whoa!

Whoa!

Yea!

[COMPANY]
Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!

Whoa!

Whoa!

Yea!

[LAURENS]
Rise up!

When you’re living on your knees, you rise up

Tell your brother that he’s gotta rise up

Tell your sister that she's gotta rise up

[LAURENS AND ENSEMBLE]
When are these colonies gonna rise up? (x4)

Rise up!

[COMPANY]
Whoa! Whoa!

Whoa!

Whoa!

Whoa!

Rise up!

[HAMILTON]
I imagine death so much it feels more like a memory

When’s it gonna get me?

“Never, at least not while I’m alive.” Said George as he gazed down upon his son, who was clearly exhausted.

In my sleep? Seven feet ahead of me?

If I see it comin’, do I run or do I let it be?

Is it like a beat without a melody?

See, I never thought I’d live past twenty

Where I come from some get half as many

Ask anybody why we livin’ fast and we laugh, reach for a flask

We have to make this moment last, that’s plenty

Scratch that

This is not a moment, it’s the movement

Where all the hungriest brothers with
Something to prove went?

Foes oppose us, we take an honest stand

We rode like Moses, claimin’ our promised land

And? If we win our independence?

Is that a guarantee of freedom for our descendants?

Or will the blood we shed begin an endless

Cycle of vengeance and death with no defendants?

I know the action in the street is excitin’

But Jesus, between all the bleedin’ ‘n fightin’

I’ve been readin’ ‘n writin’

We need to handle our financial situation

Are we a nation of states? What’s the state of our nation?

I’m past patiently waitin’. I’m passionately

Smashin’ every expectation

Every action’s an act of creation!

I’m laughin’ in the face of casualties and sorrow

For the first time, I’m thinkin’ past tomorrow

Thomas whistled. “Damn, that was good!”

“Language, son.”

“Sorry, George.”

[HAMILTON AND COMPANY]
And I am not throwing away my shot

I am not throwing away my shot

Hey yo, I’m just like my country

I’m young, scrappy and hungry

And I’m not throwing away my shot

[HAMILTON/LAURENS/
LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN]
We’re gonna rise up! Time to take a shot! (x2)

[HAMILTON]
Time to take a shot!

[HAMILTON/LAFAYETTE/
LAURENS/MULLIGAN]
Time to take a shot!

Time to take a shot!

Take a shot!

Shot!

Shot!

A-yo it’s

Time to take a shot!

Time to take a shot!

And I am—

[ENSEMBLE]
Not throwing away my shot (x2)

We’re gonna

Rise up! (x6)

Time to take a shot! (x2)

And I am—

[HAMILTON/LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN/LAURENS]
Not throwin’ away my—

[COMPANY]
Not throwin’ away my shot!

Chapter Text

The song ended, and immediately moved straight into the next one. Enraptured, the Watchers kept their eyes on the screen.

i may not live to see our glory

The Secretary of the treasury bowed his head in remembrance of his friend, knowing that he did not get to see his glory. As if knowing what his son was thinking, George pulled him into a tight embrace.

(I may not live to see our glory)

but i will gladly join the fight

(but i will gladly join the fight)

and when our children tell our story

they'll tell the story of tonight

let's have another round tonight (x3)

raise a glass to freedom

something they can never take away

no matter what they tell you

“That is true.” murmured Thomas, thinking back on the time he had written the Declaration of Independence in ‘76, as well as assisting Lafayette in his writing of the Declaration on the Rights of Man. Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness indeed.

raise a glass to the four of us

tomorrow there'll be more of us

telling the story of tonight

(they'll tell the story of tonight)

raise a glass to freedom

something they can never take away

no matter what they tell you

let's have another round tonight

raise a glass to the four of us

tomorrow there'll be more of us

telling the story of tonight

let's have another round tonight

(they'll tell the story of tonight)

raise a glass to freedom

they'll tell the story of tonight

raise a glass to freedom

they'll tell the story of tonight

they'll tell the story of tonight

 
As the bittersweet song ended, the watchers gazed solemnly at each other, mourning those who had passed on in the fight to be free.

“Anyways…. I do believe the
next song is about to come on…” Eliza broke the blanket of silence that had fallen upon the group, causing everyone to shake off their sadness.

“Excellent.”

Chapter Text

However, the next song did not come on quite yet.

A heap of people, once again, appeared on top of the table, and not the people you would expect.

Aaron Burr, Maria Reynolds, Hercules Mulligan, Peggy Schuyler, and Charles Lee appeared in a flash of bright light, and untangled themselves, in the same way that the people who had arrived before them had. They all glanced around the room in confusion, having no clue where they were, surprised to note those who were already present. They were even more surprised to note Alexander resting his head on Washington’s shoulder, as four out of five of them knew Alex hated physical contact of any kind, unless the person giving it had earned his trust.

“ Burr?” Washington practically growled, standing up. Alexander made a noise in protest as he was jostled from his comfortable position.

“Pa, don’t kill him. Remember, he has no idea that he kills me.” Alexander reminded his adopted father, who had been about to punch the confused Senator for what his future self would have done to his son.

Upon seeing Maria, Eliza’s face took on a stony expression, and she started toward her, only to have Angelica grab her arm. That is, until they both noticed Peggy.

“PEGGY!”

The three sisters shared a hug, happy to be reunited once more. Charles Lee stood in the corner of the room, looking as if he wanted to be anywhere but in that place. He was very out of his element in this room full of people he either did not know or had upset in the past.

Lafayette saw Herc, and his eyes lit up at the sight of the third member of the Original Quartet. The two shared a heartfelt hug, which they brought Alexander into.

Then, Alexander saw Maria.

An expression of shame and self-hatred once more appeared on his face, one that did not go unnoticed by Eliza and George. In a morbid sort of way, Eliza’s heart lifted when she saw her husband suffering, but it was cooled by the thought of the loss of Phillip, which was still very raw. The two stared at each other, before averting their eyes and glancing anywhere but at the other person. Everyone in the room (yes, even Lee) had quieted, waiting to see what would happen between Alex and his… mistress, for lack of a better word.

After the explanation of what exactly was going on, everyone sat down on the couches once more. You could practically feel the tension radiating off of every occupant in the room, even George and Alexander.

Speaking of those two, they needed to explain the change in their relationship to the rest of the group.

Burr looked at Alexander with an expression of grief when he heard that if not for Washington he would have murdered Hamilton in a duel.

“Hamilton, care to explain why you and His Excellency,” Lee sneered when he said his former general’s title, “are far more familiar than from what I remember during the war?”

“Of course, General Lee. ” replied Hamilton in an equally snarky tone. Angelica, Peggy, and Maria tried not to laugh at that, they really did. But the three couldn’t help but let a little giggle escape them. Alexander smirked when he saw it, giving them a subtle thumbs up. “As it so happens, the bond the General and I share is now truly of a familial nature: he adopted me and I have taken up the Washington name. Do refrain from addressing me as Hamilton.”

Bewildered, Lee nodded.

“Well, ladies and gentlemen. Pardon my interruption, but I think the next song is about to come on.” Thomas interrupted the exchange, and everyone glanced at him before turning their attention to the TV screen.

Chapter Text

BURR:

There’s nothing rich folks love more

Than going downtown and slumming it with the poor

They pull up in their carriages and gawk at the students in the common

Just to watch ‘em talk

Take Philip Schuyler, the man is loaded

Uh oh, but little does he know that

His daughters, Peggy, Angelica, Eliza

Sneak into the city just to watch all the guys at

COMPANY: Work, work

ANGELICA: Angelica!

Angelica smirked at her stage counterpart, already admiring her vocal range. Alexander stared at the screen, mezmerized.

COMPANY: Work, work

ELIZA: Eliza!

Eliza gaped as her counterpart joined in, coming to the front. It was still eerie how much they looked alike.

PEGGY: And Peggy!

Peggy just stared at the screen, a serene expression on her face.

COMPANY: Work, work

The Schuyler sisters

ANGELICA: Angelica!

PEGGY: Peggy!

ELIZA: Eliza!

COMPANY: Work!

PEGGY: Daddy said to be home by sundown

ANGELICA: Daddy doesn’t need to know

PEGGY: Daddy said not to go downtown

ANGELICA: Like I said, you’re free to go

But—look around, look around

The revolution’s happening in New York

ELIZA & PEGGY: New York

COMPANY: Angelica

SISTERS & COMPANY: Work!

PEGGY: It’s bad enough Daddy wants to go to war

“And he was not the only one.” muttered Peggy under her breath, staring at Alexander, then at the president. She still couldn’t believe that her family was now related to Washington in the eyes of the law.

ELIZA: People shouting in the square

PEGGY: It’s bad enough there’ll be violence on our shore

ANGELICA: New ideas in the air

ANGELICA & MALE ENSEMBLE: Look around, look around—

ELIZA: Angelica, remind me what we’re looking for

ALL MEN: She’s looking for me!

Everyone laughed at this.

ANGELICA and (COMPANY):

Eliza, I’m looking for a mind at work (work, work)

I’m looking for a mind at work (work, work) [x2]

Woa-oah

SISTERS: Woa-oah

“Hm, that was actually quite impressive.” mused Aaron, glancing at the three actresses on screen, then their real life historical counterparts.

SISTERS & COMPANY: Work!

BURR:

“Sweet jesus, here I come.” groaned Burr, putting his head in his hands as his counterpart began to bounce in and frolick onstage, making his way toward the three sisters.

Ooh, there’s nothing like summer in the city

“I’ve always loved summer.” commented Thomas offhandedly. “Except in Philadelphia, that is.” He shuddered at the memory of how hot it had been the summer he wrote the Declaration. To quote his fellow congressmen, it had been “hot as hell”.

“I concur with your sentiments, Thomas.” George agreed, smiling.

Someone in a rush next to someone lookin' pretty

Excuse me, miss, I know it’s not funny

But your perfume smells like your daddy’s got money

Burr cringed at his epic fail at flirting, as everyone chuckled.

Why you slummin’ in the city in your fancy heels?

You searchin’ for an urchin who can give you ideals?

ANGELICA: Burr, you disgust me

Angelica nodded. “He still does,” she whispered too quietly for anyone to hear her.

BURR:

Ahh, so you’ve discussed me

I’m a trust fund, baby, you can trust me

“Oh my god.” Burr muttered again, cringing even more as Alexander burst into laughter.

ANGELICA:

I’ve been reading Common Sense by Thomas Paine

So men say that I’m intense or I’m insane

You want a revolution? I want a revelation

So listen to my declaration:

ALL SISTERS:

"We hold these truths to be self-evident

That all men are created equal"

ANGELICA and (COMPANY):

And when I meet Thomas Jefferson (unh!)

I’mma compel him to include women in the sequel

Thomas looked at her, grinning cheekily. “And just how might have you done that?” he asked, wiggling his eyebrows in such a manner that Alexander playfully slapped him on his arm.

“That’s my sister in law you’re talking to, Thomas!”

WOMEN: Work!

ELIZA:

Look around, look around at how

Lucky we are to be alive right now

ELIZA, PEGGY:

Look around, look around at how

Lucky we are to be alive right now

ALL SISTERS:

History is happening in Manhattan and we

Just happen to be in the greatest city in the world

SISTERS & COMPANY: In the greatest city in the world!

ANGELICA (ELIZA, PEGGY) ((MEN)):

Cause I’ve been reading Common Sense by Thomas Paine

(look around, look around)((hey, hey, hey, hey))

So men say that I’m intense or I’m insane

(the revolution’s happening in)((hey, hey, hey, hey))

ANGELICA (ELIZA, PEGGY) ((WOMEN)):

(New York) You want a revolution? ((look around, look around))

I want a revelation (In New York, woah)

So listen to my declaration ((the revolution's happening))

ALL SISTERS (WOMEN) ((MEN)):

We hold these truths to be self evident

(look around, look around) (hey, hey)

That all men are created equal

(at how lucky we are to be alive right now) (hey, hey)

ALL SISTERS & COMPANY:

Look around, look around

At how lucky we are to be alive right now

History is happening in Manhattan

And we just happen to be

WOMEN (MEN): In the greatest city in the world (in the greatest city)

COMPANY: In the greatest city in the world!

COMPANY: Work, work

ANGELICA: Angelica!

COMPANY: Work, work

ELIZA: Eliza!

PEGGY: And Peggy!

COMPANY: Work, work

ALL SISTERS: The Schuyler sisters

COMPANY: Work, work

ALL SISTERS (COMPANY):

We’re looking for a mind at work (work, work)

Hey (work, work)

ANGELICA (COMPANY):

Woah-ah! (work, work)

ELIZA & PEGGY (COMPANY):

Hey (work, work)

In the greatest city

ALL SISTERS:

In the greatest city

In the world!

Lafayette whistled as the sisters ended that note, grinning. “That was pretty impressive there!” he commented, crossing his legs and putting them on the table.

COMPANY: In the greatest city in the world!

Chapter Text

SEABURY:

Hear ye, hear ye! My name is Samuel Seabury, and I present

“Ugh, Seabury.” Alexander winced, causing Thomas to chuckle.

"Free thoughts on the proceedings of the Continental Congress!"

“Oh lord, I remember this.” Burr groaned, smacking his forehead.

Heed not the rabble who scream revolution

They have not your interest at heart

MULLIGAN: Oh my god. Tear this dude apart

The spy laughed, grinning at his counterpart.

SEABURY:

Chaos and bloodshed are not a solution

Don’t let them lead you astray

This congress does not speak for me

Alexander growled, standing up just as Washington pulled his son down. He crossed his arms petulantly, narrowing his eyes.

“Son, we proved him wrong. And so will they.”

BURR: Let him be

SEABURY:

They’re playing a dangerous game

I pray the king shows you his mercy

“What mercy?” asked Peggy rhetorically.

For shame, for shame!

HAMILTON: Yo!

SEABURY:

Heed not the rabble who

HAMILTON:

He'd have you all unravel at the sound of screams

Alexander stared in awe at his counterpart, as he attempted to fight for the pedestal that Seabury was standing on, trying to push the loyalist off despite Burr’s attempts to stop him.

SEABURY:

Scream—

HAMILTON:

But the revolution

SEABURY:

Revolution—

HAMILTON:

Is comin'

SEABURY:

They have not your interests

HAMILTON:

The have-nots are gonna win this

SEABURY:

At heart—

HAMILTON:

It’s hard to listen to you with a straight face

Alexander sniggered, stopping when George glared at him.

SEABURY:

Chaos and—

HAMILTON:

Chaos and bloodshed

SEABURY:

Bloodshed are not—

HAMILTON:

Already haunt us

SEABURY:

A solution—

HAMILTON:

Honestly, you shouldn’t even talk—

“Thank Providence Seabury is not here,” thought Lee, shuddering. Despite not agreeing with either Washington present many a time, he knew that had Seabury been here, he probably would have ended up punching the man. He may not have supported General Washington, but he still had believed in the revolution. It was just that he thought he should have been the one to lead it.

SEABURY:

Don’t let them lead you astray—

HAMILTON:

And what about Boston?

Look at the cost and all that we’ve lost

And you talk about Congress?

SEABURY:

This Congress does not speak for me

HAMILTON:

My dog speaks more eloquently than thee

The occupants of the room snorted at that, and Alexander grinned, standing up and bowing.

SEABURY:

You’re playing a dangerous game

HAMILTON:

But strangely, your mange is the same!

SEABURY:

I pray the king shows you his mercy

HAMILTON: Is he in Jersey?

SEABURY: For shame—

HAMILTON: For the Revolution!

SEABURY: For shame!

Thomas nodded in approval at the note Seabury’s actor had hit, always having been a supporter of those talented in the fine arts.

COMPANY: For the Revolution!

SEABURY: Heed—

HAMILTON:

If you repeat yourself again I’m gonna

SEABURY & HAMILTON:

Scream—

HAMILTON:

Honestly, look at me, please don’t read!

SEABURY: Not your interest—

HAMILTON and (COMPANY):

Don’t modulate the key then not debate with me (laughter)

Those present out of the people who had actually been there when Alexander heard Seabury laughed along with their stage counterparts.

Why should a tiny island across the sea

Regulate the price of tea?

BURR: Alexander, please!

HAMILTON:

Burr, I’d rather be divisive than indecisive

Drop the niceties

Burr rolled his eyes. “Classic, Alexander. Classic.”

ENSEMBLE:

Silence! A message from the King!

A message from the King!

FULL COMPANY:

A message from the King!

Chapter Text

The transition into the next song went smoothly, and everyone listened intently as the first few chords led into the introduction of one King George the Third. Everyone laughed at the forlorn expression on his face, which was greatly exaggerated. Yes, even Lee.

You say

the price of my love's not a price that you're willing to pay

“What?” George asked, confused. Alex and Thomas shrugged, before turning back to the screen.

You cry

“No I don’t!” Alex indignantly growled, standing up from the couch as he glared at the screen. George put a hand on his son’s arm, causing him to relax under his touch.

in your tea which you hurl in the sea when you see me go by

“Oh! The boston tea party!” Alexander exclaimed, understanding the previous lyric.

Why so sad?

“Because monarchies suck.” muttered Lafayette, crossing his arms at the thought of the oppression that both the people in France and America had to withstand.

Remember we made an arrangement when you went away

Now you're making me mad

“Good.” said George, causing Alex to snigger.

Remember despite our estrangement, I'm your man

“Okay then…” Eliza trailed off, glancing at the screen in confusion, an expression she saw mirrored in the faces of many in the room.

You'll be back

Soon you'll see

You'll remember you belong to me

“Not anymore!” Thomas proudly stated, and Alex nodded in agreement.

You'll be back

Time will tell

You'll remember that I served you well

“And just how did you do that?” asked Hercules rhetorically, causing everyone to laugh.

Oceans rise, empires fall

We have seen each other through it all

And when push comes to shove,

I will send a fully armed battalion to remind you of my love

Everyone snorted at that line. They all hated to admit it, but they were actually liking this portrayal of King George, despite their sentiments toward the actual man.

Da dada da da

Da dadada dayada

Dada da da dayada

Da dada da da

Da dadada dayada

Dada da da da

“Oh my god,” Washington wheezed through laughter, finding this actor hilarious.

You say our love is draining and you can't go on

“Hm, that is a pretty high note.” Madison nodded in approval. It seemed that this actor, Groff, was pretty talented.

You'll be the one complaining when I am gone

And, no, don't change the subject

'Cause you're my favorite subject

My sweet, submissive subject

My loyal, royal subject

“Not anymore!” Angelica shouted, and Alexander reached over Washington to give her a high five.

Forever and ever and ever and ever and ever

You'll be back

Like before

I will fight the fight and win the war

For your love

For your praise

And I'll love you till my dying days

When you're gone, I'll go mad

So don't throw away this thing we had

“What thing?”

'Cause when push comes to shove

I will kill your friends and family to remind you of my love

“So romantic.” Hercules sarcastically muttered, earning chuckles and giggles from all the room’s occupants.

Da dada da da

“You’ve got to be kidding me.”

Da dadada dayada

Dada da da dayada

Da dada da da

Da dadada dayada

Dada da

Everybody!

Da dada da da

Da dadada dayada

Dada da da dayada

Da dada da da

Da dadada dayada

Dadada da da dayada

“I am never taking his majesty seriously again.”

“Neither am I, George. Neither am I.”

Chapter Text

COMPANY

British Admiral Howe’s got troops on the water.

Thirty-two thousand troops in New York harbor.

George winced as the song began to play, realizing that the war must be starting. Knowing what was to come, he reached out and grasped Alexander’s hand tightly, understanding that in the future the boy might need some support.

ENSEMBLE

Thirty-two thousand troops in New York harbor.

When they surround our troops!

They surround our troops!

When they surround our troops!

HAMILTON

As a kid in the Caribbean I wished for a war.

I knew that I was poor,

I knew it was the only way to—

HAMILTON/BURR/MULLIGAN/LAURENS/LAFAYETTE

Rise up!

HAMILTON

If they tell my story

I am either gonna die on the battlefield in glory or—

HAMILTON/BURR/MULLIGAN/LAURENS/LAFAYETTE

Rise up!

HAMILTON

I will fight for this land

but there’s only one man

who can give us a command so we can—

HAMILTON/BURR/MULLIGAN/LAURENS/LAFAYETTE

Rise up!

HAMILTON

Understand? It’s the only way to—

HAMILTON/BURR/MULLIGAN/LAURENS/LAFAYETTE

Rise up! Rise up!

HAMILTON

Here he comes!

George watched the entire build up to what he surmised to be his appearance with a rueful grin, his mind swimming with memories of a war long over.

ENSEMBLE

Here comes the General!

BURR

Ladies and gentlemen!

ENSEMBLE

Here comes the General!

BURR

The moment you’ve been waiting for!

Grins spread across the faces of all occupants in the room, realizing whose stage counterpart they were about to meet. Alexander leaned forward eagerly, curious to see how his father would be portrayed.

ENSEMBLE

Here comes the General!

BURR

The pride of Mount Vernon!

ENSEMBLE

Here comes the general!

BURR

George Washington!

Washington rolled his eyes fondly at the overdramatic welcome they gave his stage counterpart, as Alexander scooted closer to him.

WASHINGTON

We are outgunned,

ENSEMBLE

What?

WASHINGTON

outmanned,

ENSEMBLE

What?

WASHINGTON

outnumbered,

outplanned.

We gotta make an all out stand

ayo, I’m gonna need a right-hand man.

Alexander smirked.

Check it—

Can I be real a second?

For just a millisecond?

Let down my guard and tell the people how I feel a second?

Now I’m the model of a modern major general,

“Full General, thank you very much.” Maria muttered under her breath.

the venerated Virginian veteran whose men are all

lining up, to put me up on a pedestal,

writin’ letters to relatives

embellishin’ my elegance and eloquence,

Lee loathed to admit it, but he rather liked this song. And the actor who played Washington, Chris Jackson or something like that, was pretty damn good. He schooled his features into a deep scowl for they mustn't know how much he was actually enjoying this.

Washington nodded as his counterpart noted the exaggeration of his positive qualities, one thing he had loathed during the course of the war. He was only human, after all.

but the elephant is in the room,

the truth is in ya face when ya hear the British cannons go…

ENSEMBLE

Boom!

WASHINGTON

Any hope of success is fleeting,

how can I keep leading when the people I’m

leading keep retreating?

We put a stop to the bleeding as the British take Brooklyn,

knight takes rook, but look,

We are outgunned,

ENSEMBLE

What?

WASHINGTON

outmanned,

ENSEMBLE

What?

WASHINGTON

outnumbered,

outplanned.

We gotta make an all out stand

ayo, I’m gonna need a right-hand man.

Incoming!

HAMILTON

They’re battering down the Battery check the damages.

MULLIGAN

Rah!

HAMILTON

We gotta stop ‘em and rob ‘em

of their advantages.

MULLIGAN

Rah!

HAMILTON

Let’s take a stand with the stamina God has granted us.

Hamilton won’t abandon ship,

Yo, let’s steal their cannons—

Eliza could only watch, enraptured, at the scene before her. Part of her was torn between smacking her husband for his recklessness, and hugging him to make sure he was still there. She settled on slapping him.

“You reckless fool! You could've died!” She growled, and he turned to look at her, a smile on his face.

“But I’m still here, as you can see. It gets worse, however.” warned Alexander, and his adoptive father nodded, casting his eyes downward.

MULLIGAN

Shh-boom!

WASHINGTON

Goes the cannon, watch the blood and the shit spray and…

COMPANY

Boom!

Alexander, George, Burr, Hercules, Lafayette, and Lee all flinched as the cannon rang out, sharing a glance with one another, reminded of their time on the field of battle.

WASHINGTON

Goes the cannon, we’re abandonin’ Kips Bay and…

COMPANY

Boom!

WASHINGTON

There’s another ship and…

COMPANY

Boom!

WASHINGTON

We just lost the southern tip and…

COMPANY

Boom!

WASHINGTON

We gotta run to Harlem quick, we can’t afford another slip.

Guns and horses giddyup,

I decide to divvy up

my forces, they’re skittish as the British cut the city up.

One look at Alexander and you could tell he wasn't paying attention that much, for he seemed to be locked in memories of battle. His father pulled him close, gripping his hand.

“Pa,” he spoke weakly, his voice hoarse from the pain of the past. “You’ll cut off my circulation with the way you’re holding onto my wrist.”

George chuckled, loosening his grip. “Just wanted to make sure you’re still with us.”

This close to giving up, facing mad scrutiny,

I scream in the face of this mass mutiny:

are these the men with which I am to defend America?

“George-” George held a hand up in order to stall Alexander’s likely oncoming tirade, looking tired and weary.

“I know. They proved themselves to me in the end. They pulled through it.” His eyes grew slightly misty at the thought of all those who hadn't pulled through it, resolving to honor their legacy as best as he could.

We ride at midnight, Manhattan in the distance.

I cannot be everywhere at once, people.

I’m in dire need of assistance…

BURR

Your excellency, sir!

Burr grinned as he saw himself enter.

“Right on time, Burr!” Alexander said sarcastically, causing Angelica to slap him. “Ow! Jeez, Angelica!”

WASHINGTON

Who are you?

BURR

Burr cringed as he remembered this meeting, but was also curious to see how Mr. Miranda would portray it.

Aaron Burr, Sir?

Permission to state my case?

WASHINGTON

As you were.

BURR

Sir,

I was a captain under General Montgomery

until he caught a bullet in the neck in Quebec,

and well, in summary

I think that I could be of some assistance.

I admire how you keep firing on the British
from a distance.

WASHINGTON

Huh.

BURR
I have some questions, a couple of suggestions

on how to fight instead of fleeing west.

WASHINGTON

Yes?

BURR

Well—

HAMILTON

Your excellency, you wanted to see me?

WASHINGTON

Hamilton, come in, have you met Burr?

“It’s Washington now!” Alexander said, glancing at his father with happiness dancing in his eyes.

HAMILTON

Yes, sir.

HAMILTON AND BURR

We keep meeting.

“Unfortunately.” muttered Burr and Alex at the same time, looking at each other in surprise when they realized they had spoken in unison.

BURR

As I was saying, sir, I look forward to seeing

your strategy play out.

WASHINGTON

Burr?

BURR

Sir?

WASHINGTON

Close the door on your way out.

“Brilliant, Dad!” Alex grinned, and George chuckled. How he would have liked to been called “Dad” or “father” during the war…

HAMILTON

Have I done something wrong, sir?

“Never, mon ami. Never.”

WASHINGTON

On the contrary.

I called you here because our odds are beyond scary.

Your reputation precedes you, but I have to laugh.

HAMILTON

Sir?

WASHINGTON

Hamilton, how come no one can get you on their staff?

HAMILTON

Sir!

WASHINGTON

Don’t get me wrong, you’re a young man, of great renown.

I know you stole British cannons when we were still downtown.

Nathaniel Green and Henry Knox wanted to hire you…

HAMILTON

To be their Secretary? I don’t think so.

WASHINGTON

Why are you upset?

HAMILTON

I’m not—

WASHINGTON

It’s alright, you want to fight, you’ve got a hunger.

I was just like you when I was younger.

Head full of fantasies of dyin’ like a martyr?

Alexander raised his eyebrows, remembering George had said those exact words to him during their first meeting.

HAMILTON

Yes.

WASHINGTON

Dying is easy, young man. Living is harder.

“Dying is easy. Living is harder.” murmured George, pondering the phrase. Too true.

HAMILTON

Why are you telling me this?

WASHINGTON

I’m being honest.

“Indeed.”

I’m working with a third of what our Congress

has promised.

We are a powder keg about to explode,

I need someone like you to lighten the load. So?

COMPANY (EXCEPT HAMILTON)

I am not throwin’ away my shot!

I am not throwin’ away my shot!

Ayo, I’m just like my country, I’m young,

scrappy and hungry!

Later, most of the occupants in the room would be able to say that they got chills during that part. It was just so...fitting for what was happening.

HAMILTON

I am not throwing away my shot!

WASHINGTON

Son,

WASHINGON AND COMPANY

We are outgunned, outmanned!

HAMILTON

You need all the help you can get.

I have some friends. Laurens, Mulligan,

Marquis de Lafayette, okay, what else?

WASHINGTON AND COMPANY

Outnumbered, outplanned!

HAMILTON

We’ll need some spies on the inside,

Some King’s men who might let some things slide.

If dabbing was invented yet, Hercules would have dabbed. But sadly, it wasn't.

HAMILTON

I’ll write to Congress and tell ‘em we need

supplies, you rally the guys, master the element of surprise.

I’ll rise above my station, organize your

information, ‘til we rise to the occasion of our new nation. Sir!

ENSEMBLE

Here comes the General!

HAMILTON

Rise up!

ENSEMBLE

Here comes the General!

HAMILTON

Rise up!

ENSEMBLE

Here comes the General!

HAMILTON

Rise up!

ENSEMBLE

Here comes the General!

HAMILTON

What?

WASHINGTON

And his right hand man!

FULL COMPANY

Boom!

Those who had served in the army jumped at the final cannon, startled. They shook their heads, clearing away the memories of death and destruction.

Everyone sat in silence once more, looking around at one another, daring to see which one of them would break the thick veil of quiet that had settled over the group.

No one did.

Chapter Text

Boom!

Yet another cliche entrance later, John Laurens, Martha Washington, and King George all appeared in the room, just as confused as everyone else when they arrived.

“Martha!” George stood up quickly, running toward his wife. “I have missed you so. Come, meet Alexander.”

“But I already have met Mr. Hamilton!” she protested, glancing at her husband

Alexander growled at his old last name, before George could respond, “You have met Alexander Hamilton, but you have not met Alexander Washington. ”

“Alexander Washington? I wasn’t aware we had another child in the family-” Martha was cut off by George, who put a hand on her shoulder.

“My dear, Alexander Washington is Alexander Hamilton. As of what I believe to be yesterday, for time in this room is very confusing, at my request he finally joined our family.” George said, putting an arm around his son’s shoulder.

“Congratulations, Alexander.”

Alexander’s eyes widened at the voice, one he had not heard since before Yorktown all those years ago. One he thought had belonged to someone who had died. Someone he thought he would never see again until he passed on. “John?”

Laurens nodded, his eyes glistening. “It is I. Long time no see.”

“Oh, John!” Alexander broke free of George’s tight grasp, before running over to John and pulling his friend into a hug. “Wha- how?”

“Magic.” John grinned, having already been made aware of the reason for this visit, unlike Martha and British!George.

Then, George noticed George.

“Your Majesty,” the former general said cooly, coming to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the man whose name he had cursed many a time.

“Mister President,” the King replied in an equally cool tone, fixing his opponent with a hard stare. Maria started humming the melody to “You’ll Be Back”, causing the others to look at each other and snicker loudly. “What?” he barked, thinking that these people were making fun of him. Which of course they were, but he didn’t know that, nor did he need to.

George burst out laughing at the reminder of the song, as did the original four of the Hamilsquad. For as collected as the President appeared in public, in private he had absolutely no impulse control, a trait he and Alexander both shared. Except Alexander had no impulse control either way.

“Am I missing something here?” John asked, trying not to smirk.

“No. Nothing at all.”

After explaining to the King and Martha why they were here, everyone gathered around the TV again just as the next song started to play.

John chose to make himself comfortable nearby Alexander, who smiled as he sat down next to him. As you would expect, George and Martha sat on Alexander's other side, and the three Schuylers sat behind them on their own couch. Maria joined them, and Peggy gladly struck up a conversation with her about current fashion. The others all sat down wherever they pleased, finding it fun to be in this more intimate and relaxed setting compared to the offices that they were used to.

Finally, as soon as everyone was comfortable, the next song started to play.

Chapter Text

As the opening bars began to play, sounding just like the first song but with a slightly different feel to it, everyone shushed one another, drawing closer to the screen to watch.

Burr groaned as he came on screen, dreading what was to come given how he had been portrayed thus far.

BURR:

How does the bastard, orphan, son of a whore

Go on and on

Grow into more of a phenomenon?

“Magic.” grumbled Madison once more. As a result, both Thomas and Maria slapped him. “OW! Jesus, you guys!”

“If you insult my friend, you insult me. It would be good for you to remember that James.” growled Thomas, and Alexander smiled at him.

“There is no need to defend my honor, Tom. I can do it myself, if I need to.”

Watch this obnoxious, arrogant, loudmouth bother

Be seated at the right hand of the father

Washington hires Hamilton right on sight

“And I certainly did not regret it.” The man in question muttered, causing his son to give him a cheeky thumbs up.

“Of course not! I am fabulous, after all.”

But Hamilton still wants to fight, not write

Now Hamilton’s skill with a quill is undeniable

All those who had fallen victim to Alexander’s quill at one point or another (more like everyone) nodded, either smiling or grimacing.

But what do we have in common?

We’re Reliable with the

ALL MEN:

Ladies!

Everyone who had been present for “The Schuyler Sisters” burst into laughter, remembering Burr’s failed attempts at flirting with Angelica.

“Hey! I got better!” Burr defended himself, and Peggy shook her head.

“My money’s on that not being true.” She said, and all present snickered. Except the King, for he just didn’t do such things.

BURR:

There are so many to deflower!

“What the hell do you mean by that?” Eliza glared at the man in question, smacking him on the head with her playbill.

“It’s not me!” he responded, crossing his arms and looking at her.

“Language, Betsey.” chided Alexander, wiggling a finger at her playfully.

“You’re one to talk!” she shot back, grinning.

“Oh, shut up.”

John watched the banter between his Alexander and his wife, a forlorn expression on his face as he thought about what could have been versus what now was, all thanks to what society considered normal .

ALL MEN:

Ladies!

BURR:

Looks! Proximity to power

This earned Burr slaps from all five ladies in the room amidst chuckles from everyone else.

ALL MEN:

Ladies!

BURR:

They delighted and distracted him

Martha Washington named her feral tomcat after him!

“That’s true.” Martha nodded, grinning.

HAMILTON:

That’s true

Martha’s eyes widened. “Maybe Alexander is more like me than I originally thought”

FULL COMPANY:

1780

BURR:

A winter’s ball

And the Schuyler sisters are the envy of all

The sisters in question smirked.

Yo, if you can marry a sister, you’re rich, son

HAMILTON:

Is it a question of if, Burr, or which one?

“Oooh, getting a little arrogant are we Alexander?” Thomas winked at his best friend, and Alexander chuckled.

“Like my wife said earlier, you’re one to talk Tom.”

“Hey!”

BOTH:

Hey (x8)

Chapter Text

Hey hey hey hey

Ohh, I do I do I do I (Hey hey hey hey)

Dooo! Hey! (hey hey hey)

Ohh, I do I do I do I (Hey hey hey hey)

Dooo! Boy you got me (Hey hey hey)

Helpless!

Look into your eyes, and the sky's the limit.

Alexander put his head in his hands, feeling a wave of guilt wash over him for what he did to Eliza, who really didn’t deserve him.

“Eliza, my love…” he trailed off, not really sure what to say.

“Shh, I know.” she whispered, touching his shoulder lightly.

“I do not deserve you.”

I'm helpless!

Down for the count, and I'm drownin' in ‘em

I have never been the type to try and grab the spotlight

We were at a revel with some rebels on a hot night

Laughin' at my sister as she's dazzling the room

Then you walked in and my heart went "Boom!"

Angelica sighed as she remembered feeling the same way when she first met Alexander, hoping that this musical wouldn’t reveal too much of just what she still felt for her sister’s husband.

Tryin' to catch your eye from the side of the ballroom

Everybody's dancin' and the band's top volume

Grind to the rhythm as we wine and dine

Grab my sister, and whisper, "Yo, this One's mine."

At this line, Maria turned away from the screen, as she felt a wave of guilt be unleashed on her, much like Alexander. Angelica put a hand on her shoulder, and she looked up in shock.

“I know it wasn’t your fault.” she whispered, and Eliza nodded. Maria shook her head.

“It was absolutely my fault. If I hadn’t pushed him, the whole affair wouldn’t have happened.”

“No. It was my fault.” Alexander spoke up, turning to face them. The redness in his eyes told the girls what words could not.

“I forgive you. In fact, I forgave you after Philip died,” Eliza murmured, nearly letting out a sob when she spoke Philip’s name. However, she managed to contain her grief.

My sister made her way across the room to you (Oooh)

And I got nervous, thinking  "What's she gonna do?" (Oooh)

She grabbed you by the arm, I'm thinkin' "I'm through" (Oooh)

Then you look back at me and suddenly I'm Helpless! (Helpless!)

Oh, look at those eyes (Look into your eyes)

(And the sky's the limit)

Oh! I'm

Yeah, I'm Helpless!

Helpless, I know (Down for the count)

And I'm drownin' in ‘em

I'm helpless!

I'm so into you (Look into your eyes)

I am so into you (And the sky's the limit I'm helpless!)

“Who wouldn’t be?” chuckled Alexander, and Peggy slapped him. “Oh, gee thanks Peggy. I thought I was immune to the slapping.”

“Yeah… not really.” Peggy smirked, turning back to the screen.

I know I'm down for the count (Down for the count)

And I'm drownin' in ‘em. (And I'm drownin' in ‘em.)

Where are you taking me?

I'm about to change your life

“You’re not kidding, Angelica.” Alexander said, and Angelica grinned.

“I’m a Schuyler. Schuylers don’t kid around, as you put it.”

Then by all means, lead the way

Elizabeth Schuyler. It's a pleasure to meet you

Schuyler?

My sister

Thank you for all your service

If it takes fighting a war for us to meet, it will have been worth it

I'll leave you to it

At this point, Alexander wasn’t even surprised at the accuracy to which Lin had portrayed their first meeting. Neither were Angelica and Eliza for that matter. They had already learned to expect anything when it came to this musical.

One week later

I'm writing a letter nightly

Now my life gets better, every letter that you write me

Laughin' at my sister, cuz she wants to form a harem

Alexander raised his eyebrows, staring at Angelica with a smirk on his face. “Oh really?”

Angelica groaned, burying her face in her hands.

I'm just sayin', if you really loved me, you would share him

Ha!

Two weeks later

In the living room stressin' (Stressin')

My father's stone-faced

While you're asking for his blessin' (Blessin')

“Two weeks, Washington?” Lee commented, and Alexander glared at him.

“Yes.” he growled, and Lee flinched.

I'm dying inside, as you wine and dine

And I'm tryin' not to cry ‘cause there's nothing

that your mind can't do (Oooh)

“Truer words never spoken.” remarked George, and Eliza smiled at his comment. “That husband of yours is non stop, Elizabeth.”

"Trust me, I know." Eliza chuckled, shaking her head fondly.

"As I'm sure you do." George responded.

My father makes his way across the room to you

I panic for a second, thinking "we're through" (Oooh)

But then he shakes your hand and says "Be true" (Oooh)

Alexander wiped a stray tear away, and refused to look at Eliza or Maria.

And you turn back to me, smiling, and I'm Helpless! (Helpless!)

Look into your eyes and the sky's the limit I'm Helpless! (Helpless!)

King George caught himself humming along, and pinched his arm to make sure he kept his cool exterior. He couldn’t let anyone know he was actually enjoying this, after all! It would totally ruin his reputation!

(Hoo!) Down for the count

And I'm drownin' in ‘em I'm Helpless!

That boy is mine, that boy is mine!

(Look into your eyes and the sky's the limit I'm Helpless!

Helpless! (Helpless!)

Down for the count (Down for the count)

And I'm drownin' in em (And I'm drownin' in em)

Eliza, I don't have a dollar to my name

“But you will, one day.” muttered Laurens, too quietly for anyone to hear him. "I know it."

An acre of land, a troop to command, a dollop of fame

All I have's my honor, a tolerance for pain

A couple of college credits and my top-notch brain

Insane, your family brings out a different side of me

Peggy confides in me, Angelica tried to take a bite of me

No stress, my love for you is never in doubt

George looked down, and noticed that Alexander had made himself comfortable on his shoulder. How was he supposed to move without disturbing his son?

Martha, who had noticed his plight, chuckled, smirking. “Looks like you’re in a bit of a tough spot there, George.”

He smiled at her, brushing a stray strand of hair out of Alexander’s face. “And it is not one I mind being in.”

We'll get a little place in Harlem and we'll figure it out

I've been livin' without a family since I was a child

My father left, my mother died, I grew up buckwild

But I'll never forget my mother's face, that was real

And long as I'm alive, Eliza, swear to God

You'll never feel so Helpless!

Alexander once again refused to look at Eliza, but instead scooted closer to George, who allowed him to do so.

I do I do I do I do!

Eliza… (Helpless!)

I do I do I do I do!

I've never felt so—

(Helpless!)

Hey, yeah, yeah!

(Down for the count)

(I'm down for the count And I'm drownin' in ‘em)

(I'm—)

My life is gon' be fine cuz (Helpless!) Eliza's in it.

“It still is.” he murmured, finally looking at her.

(I look into your eyes, and the sky's the limit)

(I'm Helpless!)

(Down for the count)

. …drownin' in ‘em. (And I'm drownin' in ‘em.)

(Wedding march plays)

Everyone snorted at seeing Hercules as the flower boy, tossing petals into the audience as he sauntered down the aisle.

Hercules stood up, taking a bow as his friends laughed.

“Yes, thank you thank you.”

That led to even more laughter, a nice change from the previously somber mood.

In New York, you can be a new man…

In New York, you can be a new man…

In New York, you can be a new man…

Helpless.

Chapter Text

Alright, alright.

That's what I'm talkin' about!

Much like when it happened, a few people in the room chuckled at that, causing Laurens to smile. He brutally squashed any thought at seeing his best friend/crush get married all over again, resolving instead to be happy for Alexander and Eliza.

Now everyone give it up for the maid of honor, Angelica Schuyler!

A toast to the groom! (To the groom, to the groom, to the groom!)

To the bride! (To the bride, to the bride, to the bride!)

From your sister, (Angelica, Angelica)

To your union, (to the union, to the union, to the revolution!)

and the hope that you provide. (You provide, you provide)

May you always (always)

Be satisfied.

(Rewind, rewind. Rewind, rewind)

(I remember that night I just might (– rewind.)

I remember that night I just might

(– rewind.) I remember that night, I remember that –

“Wow.” murmured Thomas, as he admired the “Rewind” effect, and the feel it gave the song. “That’s impressive.”

I remember that night, I just might regret that night for the rest of my days.

I remember those soldier boys tripping over themselves to win our praise.

I remember that dreamlike candlelight like a dream that you can't quite place

but Alexander, I'll never forget the first time I saw your face.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Eliza asked kindly, and Angelica turned away from her sister, staring at the screen with a vengeance as she stayed silent. Looks as if she had been wrong to think that this show wouldn’t reveal her feelings for Alexander.

I have never been the same

Intelligent eyes in a hunger-pang frame

And when you said "Hi," I forgot my dang name,

set my heart aflame, ev'ry part aflame

“Angelica? You, you-” Alexander couldn’t seem to form a comprehensible sentence, opening and closing his mouth as he stared at Angelica. He couldn’t seem to fathom that Angelica apparently fancied him as well. Why then, had she introduced him to Eliza?

This is not a game.

You strike me as a woman who has never been satisfied.

I'm sure I don't know what you mean. You forget yourself.

You're like me. I'm never satisfied.

Is that right?

I have never been satisfied.

My name is Angelica Schuyler.

Alexander Hamilton.

Where's your fam'ly from?

Unimportant.  There's a million things I haven't done

“There’s that phrase again.” thought James, noting to keep an ear out for it in case it appeared again, for it seemed to do so frequently. Apparently, Mr. Miranda liked repetition in his songs.

but just you wait, just you wait…

So so so

So this is what it feels like to match wits with someone at your level!

What the hell is the catch?

It's the feeling of freedom, of seein' the light

it's Ben Franklin with a key and a kite!

You see it, right?

The conversation lasted two minutes

maybe three minutes, ev'rything we said in total agreement,

Thomas let out a whistle at stage-Angelica’s rapping, clearly impressed. “Dam-” he corrected himself when he caught George’s stare. “Dang, that’s good.”

George nodded in approval.

it's a dream and it's a bit of a dance

a bit of a posture, it's a bit of a stance.

He's a bit of a flirt, but I'm ‘a give it a chance.

“A bit of a flirt? A bit?” laughed Alex, finally able to form a comprehensive statement, having gotten over his shock. ngelica shook her head fondly.

“It’s not me, Alexander.”

I asked about his fam'ly, did you see his answer?

His hands started fidgeting, he looked askance.

He's penniless, he's flying by the seat of his pants.

Handsome, boy, does he know it!

“Why, thank you!” Alex said dramatically, a smirk on his face.

Peach fuzz, and he can't even grow it!

“Hey!”

I wanna take him far away from this place,

then I turn and see my sister's face and she is…

Helpless…

And I know she is…

Helpless…

And her eyes are just…

Helpless…

And I realize

Three fundamental truths at the exact same time…

Where are you taking me?

I'm about to change your life.

“And by Providence, did you change it.” whispered Alex, smiling sadly as stage-Angelica took him to meet stage-Eliza.

Then by all means, lead the way.

Number one!

I'm a girl in a world in which my only job is to marry rich.

My father has no sons so I'm the one who has to social climb for one

so I'm the oldest and the wittiest and the gossip in New York City is insidious

Alexander is penniless

Ha! That doesn't mean I want him any less.

Elizabeth Schuyler. It's a pleasure to meet you.

Schuyler?

My sister.

Number two!

He's after me cuz I'm a Schuyler sister.

“Angelica-” Alexander spoke up suddenly, before deciding not to continue his current train of thought. What he would have said could certainly earn him a slap from all three Schuylers.

“What?”

“Nothing.”

That elevates his status, I'd have to be naïve to set that aside

maybe that is why

I introduce him to Eliza, now that's his bride.

Nice going, Angelica, he was right, You will never be satisfied.

Thank you for all your service.

If it takes fighting a war for us to meet, it will have been worth it.

I'll leave you to it.

Number three!

I know my sister like I know my own mind,

you will never find anyone as trusting or as kind.

If I tell her that I love him she'd be silently resigned, he'd be mine.

She would say, "I'm fine"

She'd be lying.

“Angelica?” Eliza poked her sister, holding eye contact with her.

“Yes?” the older sister responded weakly, wringing her hands nervously.

“Thank you. I cannot thank you enough, for letting him be mine. I know how hard that must have been for you.” murmured Eliza, and Angelica opened her mouth, about to say it was no problem. That Eliza and Peggy were the best sisters anyone could ask for.

“Shh. There’s no need to respond. I know, I know.”

But when I fantasize at night it's Alexander's eyes

as I romanticize what might have been if I hadn't sized him up so quickly.

John looked down as he realized both he and the eldest Schuyler female felt the same way toward Alexander, and he refused to look at both of them.

Thomas, who had been oddly silent after his comment earlier in the song, smiled to himself at the courage Angelica had shown in giving up Alexander. It must have taken a great deal of bravery and love for her to do that, and he knew he would never have been able to do such a thing.

At least my dear Eliza's his wife

at least I keep his eyes in my life…

To the groom!

(To the groom! To the groom! To the groom!)

To the bride!

(To the bride! To the bride! To the bride!)

From your sister

(Angelica! Angelica!)

Who's always by your side.

To your union, (to the union! To the union! To the revolution!)

and the hope that you provide.

(You provide! You provide! You provide!)

May you always (always, always)

be satisfied. (Be satisfied, be satisfied, be satisfied.)

And I know

She'll be happy as his bride.

And I know

He will never be satisfied. I will never be satisfied.

“Wow. I hate to admit it, but that was really well done.” King George muttered to himself, and in the silence of the room, everyone heard it. They chuckled, thinking that maybe the king of England wasn’t as bad as everyone thought he was.

“I concur with your sentiments, your majesty.” the second George agreed, refusing to believe he was of a similar opinion as the King.

“Oh wow, George Squared actually agreed with each other!” Lafayette said dramatically, and everyone laughed.

“That is a true miracle.”

Chapter Text

I may not live to see our glory

I may not live to see our glory

“Oh sweet Jesus. Here we go again” Lafayette, John, and Hercules all groaned as one when their drunk!counterparts entered the stage with Alexander.

“This should be fun!” Lee cackled, rubbing his hands together. Everyone looked at him as if he was mad, and he shrugged. “What? It’s okay for me to have a little fun once in a while!”

The occupants of the room rolled their eyes as one.

But I've seen wonders great and small

“Oh, really? What type of wonders?” Alexander wiggled his eyebrows, and Eliza smacked him.

I've seen wonders great and small

‘Cause if the tomcat can get married

If Alexander can get married

There's hope for our ass after all

Everyone roared with laughter at that line, and even King George found it in himself to let out a little chuckle, before schooling his face into a more serious one.

Raise a glass to freedom

Hey! Something you will never see again

No matter what she tells you

“Excuse me?” Eliza glared at Herc, Laf, and John playfully, and they shrunk back under her stare.

“It’s not me!”

Let's have another round tonight

Raise a glass to the four of us

To the newly not poor of us

We'll tell the story of tonight

Let's have another round

Well, if it isn't Aaron Burr

Sir!

Burr groaned once again as his counterpart entered, hoping he wasn’t as drunk as the rest of them.

I didn't think that you would make it to be sure

Uh

I came to say congratulations

Spit a verse, Burr

I see the whole gang is here

You are the worst, Burr

Hercules and John laughed at Laf’s line, and the rest either chuckled or smirked.

Ignore them, congrats to you, Lieutenant Colonel

I wish I had your command instead of manning George's journal

George shook his head fondly, as he remembered Alexander’s almost daily pestering for a command. Almost as if he knew what his father was thinking, Alexander smirked.

“You miss it, don’t you?” the son asked the father, who shook his head.

“No I don’t.”

No you don't

Yes I do

Now be sensible

From what I hear

You've made yourself indispensable

“That’s true.” George stated, glancing at his son with his eyes shining. “I honestly believe we wouldn’t have won the war without you, my boy.”

Alexander shook his head humbly, smiling. “You flatter me, father. We both know you would have won it anyway.”

“I’m not sure about that. If you weren’t there, who would have dealt with the incompetent fools in Congress?”

Well! Well, I heard

You've got a special someone on the side, Burr

Everyone laughed at this, and Laurens smirked.

Is that so?

What are you trying to hide, Burr?

I should go

No, these guys should go!

What?

No!

Leave us alone

Man!

Burr grinned at the thought that Alexander considered them close enough to chase away his group, at least for a while so he could tell him whatever his stage counterpart was about to tell him. That grin was wiped off of his face as he remembered that he would later end up shooting said friend in a duel. George noticed this, and filed it away for future reference.

It's alright, Burr

I wish you brought this girl with you tonight, Burr

You're very kind, but I'm afraid it's unlawful, sir

What do you mean?

She's married

I see

She's married to a British officer

“Oh shit!” Maria, Laf, Thomas, John, and Lee all said, eyes wide.

“Language, you five.” Three guesses who said that.

“Jeez, Burr! You really do go big or go home, do you?” teased Thomas, and Aaron chuckled.

“Very funny Tom, very funny.” he said sarcastically, causing Alexander to gasp dramatically.

“Oh, wow! Burr actually has a sense of humor!?”

“Talk less, Alexander.”

Oh shit

The five who had said that exact same line before laughed, realizing that they had merely repeated stage-Alexander’s line.

Congrats again, Alexander

Smile more

I'll see you on the other side of the war

I will never understand you

“Still don’t,” muttered Alexander to himself, causing Peggy to smack him.

If you love this woman, go get her

What are you waiting for?

“Gee, I don’t know. Maybe an opportunity to not be killed by a British officer?” Laurens responded to the rhetorical question with an idea of his own, and Aaron smirked.

“Something like that, yeah.”

I'll see you on the other side of the war

I'll see you on the other side of the war

Chapter Text

Theodosia writes me a letter everyday

I'm keeping the bed warm while her husband is away

“Ooooh, Burr.” Thomas wiggled his eyebrows at his friend, poking him in the side.

Burr’s face was red, and he refused to look at Thomas. “Shut up.”

He's on the British side in Georgia

He's trying to keep the colonies in line

But he can keep all of Georgia

Theodosia, she's mine

Love doesn't discriminate

Between the sinners

And the saints

It takes and it takes and it takes

Both of the Georges nodded their head in approval of the line, as they realized its truth. Love does indeed take anyone, at any time.

And we keep loving anyway

We laugh and we cry

And we break

And we make our mistakes

And if there's a reason I'm by her side

When so many have tried

Then I'm willing to wait for it

I'm willing to wait for it

My grandfather was a fire and brimstone preacher

But there are things that the

Homilies and hymns won't teach ya

My mother was a genius

My father commanded respect

When they died they left no instructions

Just a legacy to protect

James was in awe of this actor’s voice- by God, he was incredibly talented! What was the man’s name again…? He glanced down at the playbill he had been provided with upon his arrival, his finger moving across the long list of names until he found it. Ah, yes. A Mr. Leslie Odom Jr.

Death doesn't discriminate

Between the sinners

And the saints

It takes and it takes and it takes

Alexander nodded at this, wincing at the memories of death that haunted his past and weighed on his conscience. Events flashed in his mind, reminding him of darker times.

His mother, holding him in her arms as she passed away.

The hurricane, the one that destroyed his town at such a young age.

His comrades-in-arms dying on the field of battle, A wave of helplessness washing over him as he watched, unable to stop any of it.

Major John Andrè, locking eyes with him as the rope was tightened around his neck.

“On Tuesday the 27th, my son was killed in a gunfight against British troops retreating from South Carolina…”

Philip. His son.

He looked across at George, and he could tell the General was dealing with a similar problem, for the man’s eyes were closed and his fists were clenched by his side.

And we keep living anyway

We rise and we fall

And we break

And we make our mistakes

And if there's a reason I'm still alive

When everyone who loves me has died

“Not everyone.” murmured Alexander quietly. “You’re one of my friends, you know.” He said a bit louder. “And despite the fact that you kill me in that universe, I will always love you as a friend should.”

“Even with our differences in terms of political opinions?” Burr asked weakly.

“Yes. Even with those differences.” responded Alex, lightly touching Burr’s shoulder.

“Thank you,” whispered Burr quietly, and Alexander nodded.

I'm willing to wait for it

I'm willing to wait for it

Wait for it

Wait for it X3

I am the one thing in life I can control

Wait for it X3

I am inimitable

I am an original

“And yet you still refuse to make any opinion clear,” teased Alexander, poking Aaron in the side.

“Talk less, smile more Alexander. Talk less, smile more.” Burr shook his head fondly, and George chuckled at their interaction.

The President may not prefer Burr, but would still treat him cordially if his son thought of him as one of his friends, despite his misgivings. Anything for Alexander, after all.

Wait for it X3

I'm not falling behind or running late

Wait for it X3

I'm not standing still

I am lying in wait

Wait X3

Hamilton faces an endless uphill climb

“For Christ’s sake, can’t you get my name right?” Alexander threw his hands up in the air in frustration. “It's Washington, NOT Hamilton.”

"Relax, son. Calm yourself"

Climb X3

He has something to prove

He has nothing to lose

“Except a father and my darling wife, whom I love very much.” Alexander commented, and the two people in question gave him a quick hug. “And of course the best friends anyone could ask for.”

Lose X3

Hamilton's pace is relentless

“It’s Washington, dammit!” Alexander growled

He wastes no time

“Preach.” Angelica muttered.

Time X3

What is it like in his shoes?

Hamilton doesn't hesitate

He exhibits no restraint

“As said earlier, Alexander, you have like zero impulse control.” chuckled George, and Alexander smirked.

“George, you are my impulse control!”

He takes and he takes and he takes

And he keeps winning anyway

He changes the game

He plays and he raises the stakes

And if there's a reason

He seems to thrive when so few survive, then Goddamnit—

I'm willing to wait for it

I'm willing to wait for it...

Later, the occupants in the room would all swear that shivers ran down their spines at this part; the pause was unnerving! However, none of them decided to comment on it.

Life doesn't discriminate

Between the sinners and the saints

It takes and it takes and it takes

We rise

We fall

And if there's a reason I'm still alive

When so many have died

Then I'm willin' to—

I'm willing to wait for it

Wait for it

Wait for…

I'm willing to—

Wait for it...

Wait for it…

Wait for it... X5

"Wow... that was amazing."

Chapter Text

Stay alive

Stay alive

At the haunting beginning to the song, the group’s attention immediately turned to the screen.

I have never seen the general so despondent

I have taken over writing all his correspondence

Congress writes, "George, attack the British forces."

I shoot back: "We have resorted to eating our horses."

Local merchants deny us equipment, assistance

They only take British money, so sing a song of sixpence!

Alexander growled at the memories of those times, and George pulled his son closer to him, holding him tight as a wave of flashbacks hit them both.

The cavalry's not coming.

But, sir!

Alex, listen: there's only one way for us to win this

Provoke outrage

Outright

That's right.

Don't engage; strike by night.

The King raised his eyebrows at this. It still confused him how a ragtag volunteer army such as General Washington’s had managed to challenge his army, the most powerful army in the world, and WIN!

Remain relentless 'til their troops take flight

“Ah. Hit and run.” The King muttered to himself, nodding. “That makes sense. I'm not surprised. This is Washington we’re talking about.”

Sadly, George heard that.

“And what’s wrong with that, your majesty?” the General coolly asked, crossing his arms.

“Nothing of course, Mr. President. My bad.” the other George responded, immediately backtracking.

Make it impossible to justify the cost of the fight

“Which was not that hard, if you ask me. We were fighting for liberty, after all. And they were fighting for absolute control.” Alexander pointed out.

Outrun

Outrun

Outlast

Outlast

Hit 'em quick, get out fast

Chick-a-plao!

Stay alive 'til this horror show is past

We're gonna fly a lot of flags half-mast.

Those who had fought bowed their heads in remembrance of the tough times, thinking of those who hadn’t lived to see the end of the war.

Raise a glass!

I go back to New York and my apprenticeship

I ask for French aid; I pray that France has sent a ship!

Lafayette smiled at the thought of his home country, hoping that all was well back home.

I stay at work with Hamilton; we write essays against slavery

And every day's a test of our camaraderie and bravery

We cut supply lines; we steal contraband

“Those are some rather underhanded tactics that you chose, President Washington.” remarked the King, and George chose to ignore him, clenching his fists so tightly that his knuckles turned white as his eyes narrowed.

The desire to punch “His Majesty” was getting stronger by the minute!

We pick and choose our battles and places to take a stand

And every day, "Sir, entrust me with a command!"

And every day

"No."

He dismisses me out of hand.

“Son, did I ever explain to you why I never put you in charge of a battalion until the end of the war? No, I don't think I did. Remind me to do so at the next break, I feel we need to clear the air.” George said to Alexander, who nodded dutifully.

“As you wish, father. I would rather appreciate an explanation.”

Instead of me, he promotes Charles Lee

“Yay! I'm finally in here!” cheered Lee, and those around him rolled their eyes.

Makes him second-in-command:

I'm a general. Wheeeeee!

The occupants of the room laughed at the line, and Lee’s face went red from embarrassment.

“Well, I never!”

Yeah, he's not the choice I woulda gone with

He shits the bed at the Battle of Monmouth

“EXCUSE ME?!”

Everyone attack!

Retreat!

Attack!

Retreat!

What are you doing, Lee? Get back on your feet!

But there's so many of them!

The King sighed as he glanced at stage-Lee. The man really needed to learn respect for his superiors.

I'm sorry, is this not your speed?!

Hamilton!

Ready, sir!

Have Lafayette take the lead!

Yes, sir!

A thousand soldiers die in a hundred-degree heat

As we snatch a stalemate from the jaws of defeat

Charles Lee was left behind without a pot to piss in

He started saying this to anybody who would listen:

"Washington cannot be left alone to his devices

Indecisive from crisis to crisis

The best thing he can do for the revolution is turn 'n

Go back to planting tobacco in Mount Vernon!"

“I can see why Alexander was so angry at that. He always is quick to defend my honor.” thought George, putting his head in his hands. “I just wish I could have stopped the whole thing from happening.”

Ooh!

Don't do a thing; history will prove him wrong.

“You can bet it did!” Alexander shouted, looking at his father with pride in his eyes. “George is going down in history, and you know it!”

“You flatter me, son. I find myself not worthy of your praise.” said George, and Alexander smiled.

“Nonsense.”

But, sir!

We have a war to fight; let's move along.

Strong words from Lee; someone oughta hold him to it

Alexander cringed as he saw Laurens walk up to him, asking him for assistance in his vendetta against Lee, and he reluctantly accepted. He refused to look at George, whom he could envision was staring at him with a look of disappointment in his eyes much like the one he had seen during the meeting after the Laurens-Lee Duel. The one that was about to happen all over again.

He would have to relive getting chewed out by his father.

In front of his friends, enemies, and family.

Oh, brother.

I can't disobey direct orders.

Then I'll do it.

Alexander, you're the closest friend I've got.

"Still am!" Laurens commented, grinning at his best fried, who smiled at him, giving him a lazy thumbs up. 

Laurens, do not throw away your shot.

Chapter Text

One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine

It's the ten duel commandments

It's the ten duel commandments

Alexander, realizing that this must be the duel, still refused to look at anyone in the room, especially George, whom he knew would be disappointed in him for his recklessness.

“Son, I know what you're thinking.”

Alexander looked up at his father with raised eyebrows. “Oh really?”

“I know you believe I am disappointed in you, but the truth is I am not. Nor have I ever been, for that matter. I shall explain later, when we discuss why you were not given command.” murmured George, and Alexander nodded.

“Of course, father.”

“If I may ask, and this may seem like a stupid question, why do you react so adversely to being called a Hamilton?” Burr suddenly piped up, and Alexander turned to face him.

“While I understand that this musical takes place in an alternate timeline and they have no idea of my recently joining the Washington family, the use of my former name reopens old wounds that I thought had closed a long time ago.” Alexander refused to elaborate, and Burr nodded in understanding

Number one!

The challenge: demand satisfaction

If they apologize, no need for further action

“Forgive, but never forget.” whispered Martha.

Number two!

If they don't, grab a friend, that's your second

Your Lieutenant, when there's reckoning to be reckoned

Laurens nodded at the line, his eyes meeting Alexander’s.

Thomas smiled in approval. A second was always smart, in case you died there was someone to finish what you started.

Number three!

Have your seconds meet face to face

Negotiate a peace

Or negotiate a time and place

This is commonplace,

specially ‘tween recruits

Most disputes die and no one shoots

“And yet, from what we know of Alexander’s life thus far, this is not true. In this universe, John here does shoot in his duel with General Lee, young Philip passes away in his duel with Eacker,” Lafayette spat out that name like it was a curse, before continuing, “and Alexander himself dies in a duel against Aaron.”

“Very perceptive, Marquis. I applaud your intelligence.” King George commented idly, playing with his wig as Lafayette looked at him in unmasked shock.

“Thank you, your majesty.”

Number four!

If they don't reach a peace, that's alright

Time to get some pistols and a doctor on site

You pay him in advance, you treat him with civility

You have him turn around, so he can have deniability

“Smart. That would be essential in court, in terms of a murder trial.” asserted Burr, ever the lawyer.

“I concur with Burr,” Alexander said.

Five!

Duel before the sun is in the sky

Pick a place to die where it's high and dry

Number six!

Leave a note for your next of kin

Tell ‘em where you been

Pray that Hell or Heaven lets you in

Seven!

Confess your sins

Ready for the moment of adrenaline

When you finally face your opponent

Number eight!

Your last chance to negotiate

Send in your seconds

See if they can set the record straight

“Or shoot each other in the process.” Peggy muttered, knowing that could be a possible outcome if the seconds loathed each other as much as the primary duellers.

Alexander

Aaron Burr, sir

Can we agree that duels are dumb and immature?

Hercules laughed. “Says the man who goes and dies in a duel.”

“Shut up. That will never happen now anyways.”

Sure.

But your man has to answer for his words, Burr

With his life?

We both know that's absurd, sir

Hang on, how many men died because Lee was inexperienced and ruinous?

“Hey!”

Okay, so we're doing this

Number nine!

Look him in the eye, aim no higher

Summon all the courage you require

Then count

One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine

Number Ten paces!

Fire!

Alexander flinched as the shot rang out, retreating even further into himself now that his clear mistake was out in the open for all to see.

God, he hated mistakes.

And little did he know, this song that was about to play would contain one of the biggest mistakes of his military career.

Chapter Text

Lee, do you yield?

You shot him in the side!

Lee flinched at the pain of the old wound, rubbing his side as he narrowed his eyes, glaring at Laurens.

Yes, he yields!

I'm satisfied

Yo, we gotta clear the field!

Go! We won

Here comes the General!

This should be fun

The tension in the room heightened as everyone laughed uneasily at Burr’s line.

"And Burr's seemingly nonexistent sense of humor shows itself again. What a rare specimen." snorted Alexander, and Burr poked him. "Hey!"

"Talk less, smile more."

What is the meaning of this? Mr. Burr, get a medic for the General

Yes, sir

Lee, you will never agree with me

But believe me, these young men don't speak for me

Thank you for your service

Let's ride!

Hamilton!

Sir!

Meet me inside

“Oh shit! Alex you’re screwed.” Thomas exclaimed, on the edge of his seat. He had always thought that George and his best friend had gotten along perfectly all the time, but this song was clearly going to prove him wrong.

“I know that!” growled Alexander, hands clenched by his side. He seemed to be dealing with a flashback.

George glanced at his son, feeling a twinge of guilt about the whole fiasco. But it was for the better. He would have been damned if he let Alexander miss the birth of his child because of him.

Meet him inside! Meet him inside!

Meet him inside, meet him, meet him inside!

James felt shivers go down his spine as the ensemble chanted those three words, knowing shit was about to hit the fan.

Son-

Don't call me son

Even though he knew this had already happened, George felt a sharp pain at his boy refusing to let George call him by that particular term of familial endearment. Despite him actually being a part of his family now, it still reopened old wounds in his heart.

Alexander refused to look at him, pulling his legs close to his chest and wringing his hands together.

This war is hard enough without infighting-

The King found himself quite amused at this infighting, and chuckled silently to himself. Looks like the Army of the United States wasn't as United as he originally thought.

His chuckles stopped, however, as he realized that this army had somehow defeated his own.

“Isn't it sad when a parent and a child are at each other’s throats?” He asked rhetorically, causing everyone to look at him in either confusion or anger.

“Your Majesty, I must respectfully ask you to not discuss this topic at the current time.” Alexander asked of the king, who nodded, looking rather put out as if he had been searching for a fight.

“As you wish, Secretary Washington.”

Lee called you out. We called his bluff

You solve nothing, you aggravate our allies to the south

You're absolutely right, John should have shot him in the mouth.

That would've shut him up

“Mr. Washington! That was uncalled for!” growled Lee, standing up and moving to be in front of Alex.

“Please General Lee, not right now.” said Alexander weakly, not in the mood to handle Lee’s beef.

Son-

I'm notcha son-

Watch your tone

I am not a maiden in need of defending, I am grown

Charles Lee, Thomas Conway

These men take your name and they rake it through the mud!

Eliza was astounded at the mix of sheer loyalty and outward defiance her husband was showing to his commander, his father. His loyalty was expressed in his defense of George’s legacy, yet the defiance was made clear in the fact that he indirectly disobeyed said man’s orders. She could now see why Alexander was so emotionally exhausted after he came home.

James was shocked at seeing his president and the treasury secretary at each other’s throats, much like Thomas. He had always believed that they got along perfectly, the best father-son pair in existence!

Apparently not.

My name's been through a lot, I can take it

Well, I don't have your name. I don't have your titles

“You have my name now, Alexander.” muttered George, lightly brushing away a stray strand of hair away from his son’s shoulder.

I don't have your land

But, if you-

No-

If you gave me command of a battalion, a group of men to lead

I could fly above my station after the war

Or you could die and we need you alive

I'm more than willing to die-

Eliza looked as if she had been slapped. “Alexander, you, you-”

“It was in the heat of the moment, Betsey!” he defended himself, throwing his hands up in the air in exasperation.

“Oh yes, the heat of the moment you say. You mean, like the Reynolds Affair?” Eliza spat, standing up and moving over to a spot on the couch as far away from Alexander as possible.

“Betsey, I-”

“No. I don't want to hear it.”

Your wife needs you alive, son, I need you alive-

Call me son one more time-

Silence befell the occupants of the room as Alexander made one of the worst mistakes of his military career.

Alexander’s face was red, and he buried his face in his hands as George rested his hand lightly on his shoulder.

“All will be explained, son. I mean it.” murmured the General, pulling his former aide-de-camp into a hug.

“I know.”

Go home, Alexander

That's an order from your commander

Sir-

Go home

Chapter Text

Look around, look around at how

lucky we are To be alive right now

Look around, look around

How long have you known?

A month or so

Maria felt awkward, like she was intruding on a private moment that should have been kept private instead of put onscreen for all to see. Realizing that it was because of her that Eliza and Alexander would never be this close again, she scooted away from Eliza, going to sit on a chair that had luckily appeared far away from the sisters.

She couldn't bear to look at her and see what she had destroyed on her husband’s orders.

Alexander, knowing that around this time Eliza would have been carrying Phillip, felt a fresh new wave of grief break past the barrier he had carefully set up.

George noticed this, and nudged Eliza, who had forgiven Alexander after the events in “Meet Me Inside.” She took his hand, and he looked at her in shock.

“Eliza, I-”

“Shh. I know, you weren't the one who actually said that.”

Eliza, you should have told me

I wrote to the General a month ago

“You never told me, George.” Alexander shot a glare toward his adoptive father, who looked rather uncomfortable.

“Like I said, I will explain everything during the next break.” He deflected Alexander's comment, inwardly berating himself for not telling his son beforehand.

No

I begged him to send you home

You should have told me

I’m not sorry

I knew you’d fight

Until the war was won

Alexander bowed his head, knowing that the words she spoke were true.

But you deserve a chance to meet your son

The two former Hamiltons looked as if they had been slapped at the reminder of the son they had lost.

Thomas, not knowing what to do otherwise, rested a hand on Alexander’s shoulder. “If you ever need to talk, my friend, let me know.”

Alexander nodded, and both James and John felt a stab of jealousy at their interactions.

Look around, look around at how

lucky we are To be alive right now

Will you relish being a poor man’s wife

Unable to provide for your life?

I relish being your wife

Look around, look around

Look at where you are

Look at where you started

The fact that you’re alive is a miracle

“That is true.” mused Lafayette, looking at his friend and wondering how in God’s name he was still alive.

Just stay alive, that would be enough

And if this child

Shares a fraction of your smile

Or a fragment of your mind, look out world

That would be enough

I don’t pretend to know

The challenges you’re facing

The worlds you keep erasing and creating in your mind

But I’m not afraid

I know who I married

So long as you come home at the end of the day

Alexander flinched, knowing that he did not “come home at the end of the day” many a time due to his work, and resolved to come home from work more often.

That would be enough

We don’t need a legacy

We don’t need money

If I could grant you peace of mind

If you could let me inside your heart

Oh, let me be a part of the narrative

In the story they will write someday

Let this moment be the first chapter

Where you decide to stay

Once again, Alexander felt a stab of guilt. He had never decided to stay.

‘Oh, Eliza. I'm so sorry. You never deserved any of what I did to you.’ He thought, not actually having the resolve to say the thought aloud.

And I could be enough

And we could be enough

That would be enough

The occupants in the room all stared at each other as the song ended, coming to one united thought:

Eliza didn't deserve any of this.

Chapter Text

How does a ragtag volunteer army In need of a shower

As the next song began with the same rhythm that two others before it had, the groups’ attention was immediately grabbed, and they stopped their conversations to listen.

Somehow defeat a global superpower?

“Isn't that the question of the year?” King George asked rhetorically, earning scowls from all present, even Lee, who had been oddly silent.

How do we emerge victorious from the quagmire?

Leave the battlefield

Waving Betsy Ross' flag higher?

Yo.

Turns out we have a secret weapon!

An immigrant you know and love
Who's unafraid to step in!

Everyone immediately assumed that the song was talking about Alexander, who grinned. He had a feeling just who this song was about to reintroduce.

He's constantly confusin', confoundin' the British henchmen

Ev'ryone give it up

For America's favorite fighting Frenchman!

Lafayette!

Lafayette smirked as his stage counterpart jumped off a table, and that smirk grew wider when his actor began rapping at what seemed to be the speed of light.

I'm takin this horse by the reins

Makin' Redcoats redder with bloodstains

Alexander’s jaw dropped as he watched the song, almost hitting the floor. “Talk about getting more fluent in English!” He whistled, and everyone chuckled. “Laf, could you do this in real life?”

Lafayette!

Lafayette shrugged. “I don't think so. Not as well as Monsieur Diggs does, anyway.”

And I'm never gonna stop until I make 'em

Drop and burn 'em up and scatter their remains, I'm

Lafayette!

Watch me engagin' em! Escapin' em!

Enragin' em! I'm

Lafayette!

King George HATED to admit it, but he was impressed by the actor playing the Marquis. From what little he knew of Lafayette, having a flashy rap song fitted the man’s personality. Once more, he schooled his face into a neutral expression, so as to not give Washington the impression that he was impressed or something like that. It would destroy his precious reputation!

I go to France for more funds

Lafayette!

I come back with more

Guns

And ships

And so the balance shifts

We rendezvous with Rochambeau

consolidate their gifts

We can end this war at Yorktown

cut them off at sea, but

For this to succeed, there is

someone else we need

I know

Hamilton!

“Finally I'm involved again! And for the hundredth time, even though this is a recent development, it's Washington.” The former Hamilton said, grinning.

His father snickered in a manner that would be described as out of character for him. "I'm sure they understand."

Sir, he knows what to do in a trench

Ingenuitive and fluent in French, I mean

Hamilton!

Sir, you're gonna have to use him eventually

What's he gonna do on the bench? I mean

‘He’s going to stay alive, and not be shot by British redcoats.’ thought George, throwing a quick glance in his son’s direction. Everything he did was to keep Alex safe.

Now if only Alex would understand that, then he would be satisfied.

Hamilton!

No one has more resilience

Or matches my practical tactical brilliance

James nodded in approval at that little three word tongue twister, admiring Mr. Diggs for being able to say it that quickly.

Hamilton!

You wanna fight for your land back?

I need my right hand man back!

Ah!

Uh, get ya right hand man back

You know you gotta get ya right hand man back

I mean you gotta put some

thought into the letter

But the sooner the better

To get your right hand man back!

Thomas turned and smiled at Gilbert, who waved at him. “Damn, that was amazing.”

“Language!” Both George and Martha chided him, and his face went red with embarrassment.

“Sorry, you two. It won't happen again.”

“As I should expect, son.”

Hamilton!

Ha- Ha

Hamilton, Hamilton!

Alexander Hamilton

Troops are waiting in the field for you

If you join us right now

together we can turn the tide

‘And boy, did we turn it.’ thought George, his mind whirling with memories of the final battle of the war. Yorktown.

Oh, Alexander Hamilton

I have soldiers that will yield for you

If we manage to get this right

They'll surrender by early light

The world will never be the same, Alexander

Chapter Text

[WASHINGTON]

I was younger than you are now

When I was given my first command

“How old were you exactly?” asked Alexander, yearning to know more about his father’s past, He knew George had been given command at a young age, but he didn't know how young.

George’s reply was barely audible. “Twenty. I was a Major in the British army.” Alexander nodded, lightly touching his father's shoulder before pulling his hand away quickly.

King George raised his eyebrows. “Wait, YOU of all people served in my army?”

“Yes.” He responded quietly, clenching his hands together. “I don't want to talk about it."

I led my men straight into a massacre

I witnessed their deaths firsthand

The former General’s face paled as he saw a series of flashbacks in his head, all centered around his time as an officer in King George’s army. No. I will not think about this. I cannot. I will not think about the war. I WILL NOT THINK ABOUT IT! His teeth were gritted as image after image played in his mind's eye.

Alexander, noticing the pain that his father was feeling, got up and sat next to him again, putting his arm around his shoulder.

“Thank you,” George murmured, and Alexander nodded.

“Of course.”

"Mon ami, is everything alright?" Lafayette asked George, who could do nothing but shake his head. "Is it your Flashbacks again?"

Ah, yes. Lafayette and Alexander were the only two to know of his common plight before this song. But now the others knew. And all because he couldn't control it, dammit! Conceal, don't feel.

I made every mistake

“Hey, at least you didn't get in a shouting match with your commanding officer after defying his orders.” Alexander grinned, and George smiled weakly.

“I suppose, but I still made a lot of mistakes.”

I felt the shame rise in me

Lee watched the scene carefully, his emotions in turmoil. This was a man he loathed with his entire being, whom he had yearned to replace during the war, but he had been through so much. Was he pitying the man he hated? Yes, he was.

Roughly shoving the pity down, Lee changed his expression on his face to be more neutral than it had been before.

And even now I lie awake

Knowing history has its eyes on me

“History has its eyes on me.” mused George. “Hmm. I rather like that line. Maybe the song is right. Maybe history is watching over us.”

[LAURENS/MULLIGAN]

Whoa… x3

Yeah

[HAMILTON/WASHINGTON]

History has its eyes on me.

(Whoa x3...)

(Yeah)

[WASHINGTON]

Let me tell you what I wish I'd known

When I was young and dreamed of glory

You have no control

[WASHINGTON AND COMPANY]

Who lives, who dies, who tells your story

Maria, Martha, and Eliza both nodded in approval, agreeing with that line.

[WASHINGTON]

I know that we can win

I know that greatness lies in you

But remember from here on in

[WASHINGTON/HAMILTON AND MEN]

History has its Eyes on you.

(Whoa x3)

[FULL COMPANY]

History has its eyes on you

Chapter Text

[Ensemble]

The Battle of Yorktown.

Seventeen Eighty-one.

George smirked at the King when he realized that this was the battle that ended the war. The one they won. Alex noticed this, and winked at his father, giving him a subtle thumbs up as stage-Alex and stage-Laf entered.

[Lafayette]

Monsieur Hamilton.

[Hamilton]

Monsieur Lafayette.

[Lafayette]

In command where you belong.

[Hamilton]

How you say, 'No Sweat''

Alexander chuckled at that, thinking that the line was most certainly something he would say.

We're finally on the field,

We've had quite a run.

“Isn't that the truth.” muttered John, shaking his head fondly.

[Lafayette]

Immigrants'

[Both]

We get the job done!

“Hell yeah we do!” Alexander and Lafayette both shouted, high-fiving in the same manner that their screen counterparts did.

“ALEXANDER! GILBERT! LANGUAGE!” Three guesses who said that.

[Hamilton]

So what happens if we win'

[Lafayette]

I go back to France.

I bring freedom to me people,

If I'm given the chance.

[Hamilton]

We'll be with you when you do.

Alexander’s smile was wiped off of his face as he remembered that no, they weren't with Lafayette when he needed them.

[Lafayette]

Go lead your men.

[Hamilton]

I'll see you on the other side.

[Lafayette]

'Till we meet again.

[Hamilton]

I am not throwing away my shot!

I am not throwing away my shot!

Yo, I'm just like my country,

I'm young, scrappy, and hungry,

And I am not throwing away my shot!

Angelica nodded in approval. An excellent choice in lines for the time. Mr. Miranda must be quite intelligent indeed, to draw from a melody in a previous song to enhance another.

[Ensemble]

I am not throwing away my shot!

[Hamilton]

'Till the world turns upside down.

[Ensemble]

'Till the world turns upside down'

[Hamilton]

I imagine death so much it feels more like a memory.

This is where it gets me,

“Not if I have any say about it!” George growled, and Alexander rolled his eyes.

“I know, dad.”

It was still so odd for General Lee to hear President Washington being called “dad” or “father” by his secretary. He leaned back in his chair, putting his arms behind his head.

On my feet, the enemy ahead of me.

If this is the end of me,

At least I have a friend with me.

Weapon in my hand,

In command of my men with me.

Then I remember my Eliza's expecting me,

Not only that, my Eliza's expecting.

Eliza smiled sadly as she heard her husband actually remember her before he engaged himself in what she knew would become a historical battle. At least he didn't forget her this time. She brutally destroyed any pain her heart felt at the nod to Phillip, before turning back to the screen.

You gotta go,

Gotta get the job done,

Gotta start a new nation,

Gotta meet my son.

Get yo bullets out yo guns,

Get yo bullets out yo guns.

We move under cover,

And we move as one.

“Moving under the cover of darkness is always smart.” King George had to grudgingly admit, and Thomas looked at him with raised eyebrows.

“Pardon me, your majesty, but how might you know that?” asked the statesman.

The King smiled, a real genuine smile. “Back in my childhood days, I would always sneak around in the middle of the night and grab a midnight snack. My father, the King of the time, caught me a few times, and I learned my lesson.”

“Ah,” Thomas nodded in understanding. “Thank you for elaborating.”

Through the night we have one shot to live another day.

We can not let a stray gunshot

give us away.

We will fight up close,

Seize the moment and stay in it.

It's either that or meet the business end of a bayonet.

The code word is, 'Rochambeau.'

Dig me'

[Ensemble]

Rochambeau!

[Hamilton]

You have your orders now,
Go man, go!

And so the American experiment begins,

With my friends all scattered to the winds,

Laurens is South Carolina,
Redefining bravery.

Once again, if the dab had been invented yet, Laurens would have dabbed.

We'll never be free until we end slavery.

When we finally drive the British away,

Lafayette is there waiting,
In Chesapeake Bay.

How did we know that this plan would work?

We had a spy on the inside,

King George was well and truly angered. He had heard whispers of spies being the reason the Americans won the war, but to (technically) see it with his own eyes!

That's right:

[Ensemble]

Hercules Mulligan!

Hercules let out a celebratory whoop at his introduction, before turning back to the screen.

[Mulligan]

I'm spying on the British Government,

I take the measurement information and then I smuggle it,

To my brothers, revolutionary coming in,

I'm running with the sons of liberty

and I am loving it!

See that's what happens when

you're up against the ruffians.

We in the shit now,

Somebody gotta shovel it.

Hercules Mulligan,

I need no introduction,

When you knock me down,

I get the fuck back up again!

“Language, Mulligan.” George chided, and Hercules nodded.

“It’s not me, George. Though, you gotta admit, that was a pretty badass introduction.”

[Hamilton]

After a week of fighting,

A young man in a red coat stands on a parapet.

“Wasn't that a sight to see.” mused George, and Alexander nodded beside him.

“I remember my jaw must have hit the floor, I was so shocked.” chuckled the secretary, recalling that day as vividly as if it had happened yesterday.

[Lafayette]

We lower our guns as he  frantically waves a white  handkerchief.

[Mulligan]

And just like that it's over,

We tend to our wounded,

We count our dead.

[Laurens]

Black and White soldiers wonder

alike if this really means freedom.

“Not yet.” John suddenly spoke up, knowing that they still had a long ways to go until the country could truly be safe.

[Washington]

Not yet.

Laurens looked at his commander in shock, and George just smiled at him, patting him on the back warmly.

[Hamilton]

We negotiate the terms of surrender.

I see George Washington smile.

“You were smiling so wide your grin practically split your face, pa.” chuckled Alex, as he recalled the happy day that had ended the war. “But I can't talk, since I was of the same sentiment.”

“The final day of the battle is one of my fonder memories of the war.” George remarked, and Alex nodded.

We escort their men out of Yorktown.

They stagger home, single file.

Tens of thousands of people flood the streets,

There are screams and church bells ringing.

And as our fallen foes retreat,

I hear the drinking song they're singing.

[Ensemble]

The world turned upside down.

“The world turned upside down indeed.” whispered the King to himself, still baffled as to how the continentals could have beat his army.

The world turned upside down.

The world turned upside down.

The world turned upside down,

down...

Down, down, down!

[Lafayette]

Freedom for America, Freedom for France!

The real Lafayette jumped up, speaking in time with his screen counterpart. He sat down afterward as if nothing had happened.

[Ensemble]

Down, down, down!

[Hamilton]

Gotta start a new nation,

Gotta meet my son!

[Ensemble]

Down, down, down!

[Laurens]

We won!

[Mulligan]

We won!

[Lafayette]

We won!

[Hamilton]

We won!

[ Ensemble]

The world turned upside...

Down!

Chapter Text

As the last note of the song was played, the watchers sat in awed silence, a silence only interrupted by…

“ Dad? What are you- what am I doing here? One moment I was aiming my gun at the sky and then- dad? Are you okay?” Philip Washington looked around the room in confusion as Alexander stared at him with wide eyes, not trusting himself to speak.  “And what on earth is His Excellency doing here? As well as Secretary Jefferson?”

“Philip. Oh my god. I’m so sorry. It’s all my fault.” Alexander suddenly spoke, his heart breaking at the sight of the son who had died because of his advice.

“What is?” Philip asked, tilting his head. George and Alexander shared a look, seemingly holding a conversation with their eyes. Philip hasn’t died yet. There is still hope.

“Oh, uh, nothing.” Alexander brushed it off as if it was no big deal that his son who had died was standing in front of him, alive and healthy. Eliza glared at Alexander.

He leaned toward her, whispering. “It’s for the best. He’ll learn what I mean later on. And this is his second shot. He won’t throw it away.”

“Come, sit down with me. Do you know why you are here?”

I was just about to explain that.

All the occupants of the room jumped as the voice of the mysterious girl who had brought them here spoke once more, looking at each other with confusion.

My dear Philip, you may be wondering why you are here. Philip nodded. I wish to tell you that you have no reason to panic. You are here to watch a musical about your father, chronicling his life from the time he arrived here in America to the duel which took his life.

“Dad? You-” Alexander held up a hand to stop his son’s barrage of questions, much like George had done more often than not.

“Not now. You’ll learn.”

Anyways, before we begin the next song, I would like to allow everyone to take a break The speaker paused to giggle, and Thomas got the feeling that she was making a reference of some sort that he would likely understand as the musical progressed. So that some things could be explained to those who need it. You will have forty-five minutes this time. Go.

Just like before, a timer set for 45 minutes appeared on the screen, and silence fell over the group. George looked at Alexander, before glancing at a door that had appeared, raising his eyebrows. Alexander nodded, and the two disappeared into a private room. James and Thomas also disappeared, which left the others to mill about and mingle amongst each other.

Much like their first conversation, George closed the door as he entered, and it shut with a resounding click. Both men sat down in chairs that had been provided for them, staring at each other awkwardly.

“So.” Alexander began, fiddling with his hands. “You promised an explanation of your actions during the war, did you not?”

George nodded, closing his eyes. “That I did. Well, I suppose I should start at the beginning.” He sighed, before continuing. “Perhaps the best way to explain this would be by telling you a story.  Would you permit me to do that?”

“Of course, father. Please, do go on.”

“You see, it all started with a young boy. A rather unique boy, who reminded me of myself at that age. Clever, intelligent, insightful. Yearning for glory and a place in the books of the future, not caring whether or not he died in battle so long as his legacy was protected. I had the pleasure of meeting this boy at the beginning of the Revolution, when he joined my staff as my secretary and aide-de-camp. Can you guess who this boy was?”

Alexander thought for a moment, before finally responding. “Me?”

George nodded. “Exactly. I immediately connected with this young man, yearning to protect him, keep him safe. Yet he did not want protection, instead preferring to work on the battlefield. However, he still stayed in my -and by extension the country’s- service as a valuable Aide, despite almost daily arguments with me about the possibility of given a command. I loved him like a father would his son. Even so, after ordering him to not serve as a friend’s second in a duel against another member of my staff, he still disobeyed that order. In my desire to protect him, I sent him home, so that he would be safe and not die on the battlefield before he had a chance to meet his son.”

Alexander’s emotions were in turmoil. “You did it all -sending me home and denying me a command- to protect me?”

“Yes.” George whispered. “I fear that had I given you a command earlier than I did, you likely would have been shot by a Redcoat, captured, or worse killed. And I couldn’t fathom the thought of losing you. You didn’t see me after Schuylkill, Alexander. I was a mess. Will you forgive me for not coming clean before today?”

Alexander winced at the memory of that incident, where he had been reported dead by his comrades but had returned unharmed. Wet, yes. But harmed? No.

“Thank you for confiding in me, Father. I appreciate your explanation, and completely forgive you for not telling me this at an earlier date. Now, I do believe we should return to the room.” Alexander hugged George, before the two looped arms and entered the room again. Everyone was present, and Thomas and James had seemingly finished their conversation.

“Will you look at that! Our last two members of the Watchers have finally returned!” James said jovially, and Alexander raised his eyebrows at his change in attitude, before grinning.

“You seem quite excited by our return, Mr. Madison. Could there be a reason for that?” Alexander wiggled his eyebrows, and James blushed, his face as red as a tomato.

“There was nothing inappropriate happening in that room- don’t you dare imply that! Thomas and I were simply having a fruitful discussion, that’s all.” James stammered, and Alexander smirked.

“Sure, Jemmy. Sure.”

“Oh, shut up.”

George decided to interrupt them, coming to stand in between the two. “I do believe that the next song is coming on.”

Indeed, it was.

Chapter Text

Philip stood there, not exactly sure where to sit, until his dad, who was next to his adopted grandfather, pulled him into his lap.

“Stay here with me. Please.” Alexander’s voice cracked, and the young boy looked at him in confusion. His father shook his head, not willing to elaborate on why he was so emotional.

KING GEORGE

They say

The real King looked in confusion at the screen. “Is that supposed to be me?” he asked the rest of the watchers, some of which were snickering into their hands. They stopped snickering, and nodded. "From what I've seen thus far, I should be really scared." 

“Yep!” Peggy and Martha said in unison.

“Lucky you, that actor is pretty darn cute.” sighed Angelica dreamily, resulting in a playful nudge from Eliza.

“Oooh, does Angelica have a little crush?” she smirked, and Angelica shook her head.

“No, I am simply admiring a fine specimen.” chuckled Angelica, turning back to the screen.

King George was curious as to how they would portray him, and wanted to see what comes next. He did find the actor rather cute. Those Schuylers were right.

the price of my war's not a price that they're willing to pay.

Insane.

You cheat with the French, now I'm fighting with France and with Spain.

“Wha-” the historical counterpart of the man on screen was more confused than he had ever been in his life.

“This is supposed to be you, your majesty.” Martha told him, and he shrugged.

“I guess.”

I'm so blue.

The entire room, including the king himself, laughed when the actor stomped his foot and a blue light shone on him, Alexander and Philip loudest of all.

“I don’t know what I was expecting from this musical, but this is most certainly not it.” Philip commented idly. “Three or four measures into the first song I’m hearing and I already like it.”

"I concur with your sentiments, Mr. Philip." the King gave him a cheeky thumbs up, already giddy. He loved comedy in general, and his character took the crown -pardon the pun- for the most comedic he had seen yet.

I thought that we'd made an arrangement when you went away,

You were mine to subdue.

Well, even despite our estrangement, I've got a small query for you:

“Estrangement? What, are we married or something?” smirked the president, looking at the king.

“Not that I’m aware of. Ask the man who wrote this.” the king shot back, and Aaron chuckled quietly to himself.

King George had more of a personality than he thought he did.

What comes next?

You've been freed.

All of the Americans in the group, plus Lafayette, let out a whoop at this. The monarch scowled at each and every person, before fixing a smile on his face again and looking in the screen.

Do you know how hard it is to lead?

You're on your own.

Awesome. Wow.

The occupants of the room burst into uncontrollable laughter.

“Oh--my--god.” The King managed to get out in between laughs, doubling over. “That is totally something I would say.”

Do you have a clue what happens now?

Oceans rise.

Empires fall.

It's much harder when it's all your call.

All those involved in the field of politics (namely, Lafayette, Alexander, George, George, Thomas, Madison, and Burr) nodded in approval of the line, knowing that it was painfully true.

All alone, across the sea.

When your people say they hate you, don't come crawling back to me.

Da da da dat da dat da da da

Da ya da

Da da dat

Da da ya da. . .

The actual king smirked as people began singing along with the part, and he knew they had heard a song like this before. He found his stage counterpart actually did an amazing job of portraying him, and was rather pleasantly surprised by his character.

You're on your own . . .

Chapter Text

Burr raised his eyebrows as King George left the stage, only for lights to go up on his counterpart, who was sitting in a chair.

Dear Theodosia, what to say to you?

“Which one, the mother or the daughter?” chuckled Burr, and Alexander grinned at him.

“My money’s on the daughter. Philip here was born at around this time in the musical I think as well, so it is very likely.” Alexander reasoned. Burr smiled in approval and agreement.

You have my eyes. You have your mother's name.

“HA! I was right!” smirked Alex, and Burr dramatically sighed, causing his friend to look at him in shock.

“Of course you are. Of course.” he muttered, causing Jefferson to break out in a fit of giggles.

When you came into the world, you cried and it broke my heart.

I'm dedicating every day to you.

Domestic life was never quite my style.

Burr shook his head fondly, remembering his time as a father. “It really was not. But I managed.”

When you smile,

you knock me out, I fall apart.

And I thought I was so smart.

You will come of age with our young nation.

We'll bleed and fight for you,

we'll make it right for you.

If we lay a strong enough foundation

we'll pass it on to you,

we'll give the world to you,

and you'll blow us all away.

someday, someday.

Yeah, you'll blow us all away,

someday, someday.

Oh Philip, when you smile I am undone.

“Oh hey, it's me!” grinned Alexander, smirking.

“Of course you have to interrupt my song. It's only natural for you after all.” muttered Burr in response.

My son.

Look at my son. Pride is not the word I'm looking for.

“Daaaaad.” Philip moaned, burying his face in his hands as his stage-father fawned over his son. His face was beet red, as the others all smiled at the interaction.

“It's not me!” Alexander’s smirk grew wider, poking Philip in the side.

“Alexander! Don't poke our son.” Eliza chastised, slapping her husband with the Playbill again.

John watched the interactions with a sad smile on his face, wishing it would be him instead of Eliza scolding Alexander. He shook his head to clear his thoughts.

There is so much more inside me now.

Oh Philip, you outshine the morning sun.

My son.

When you smile, I fall apart.

“And now you know how I feel when I look at you.” thought George, a small grin on his face as he watched his son. Alexander looked so much more alive than he had when Philip passed away in the original timeline. It warmed his old heart to see his son so happy.

And I thought I was so smart.

My father wasn't around.

“He is now.” murmured George, gently touching Alexander on the shoulder.

“I know.”

My father wasn't around.

I swear that I'll be around for you.

“I’m so sorry I wasn’t. At least not as much as I would have liked to be.” whispered Alexander, and Philip nodded.

“I understand. It was for the greater good of the country after all.” responded Phil, smiling at his father.

I'll do whatever it takes.

I'll make a million mistakes.

I'll make the world safe and sound for you

You will come of age with our young nation.

We'll bleed and fight for you,

we'll make it right for you.

If we lay a strong enough foundation

we'll pass it on to you,

we'll give the world to you,

and you'll blow us all away.

someday, someday.

Yeah, you'll blow us all away,

someday, someday.

As the song ended, silent tears were slipping down unnoticed on Eliza’s face at the thought of what she had lost, and her husband was the same way.

Little did she know, she and Alexander would feel even more pain in the upcoming tune.

Laurens Interlude

[LAURENS]