larluce

[larluce]

HINTS OF THE COMING PARTS OF MY Arthur and Merlin travel back in time without knowing the other is from the future too AU !!

"Beauty and the Beast"

"The Witchfinder"

"The Sins of the Father"

"The Lady of the Lake"

[larluce]

Arthur and Merlin travel back in time without knowing the other is from the future too AU (SERIES 2)

FIRST PART (SERIES 1) >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

(This part is QUITE long. Credits to my best friend @yessulloa2712 who now has tumblr account and helped acting as beta almost from the beginning)

A few moments earlier. In Gwen's house.

Gwen: (measuring Lancelot, beaming) I still can’t believe I'm making your first personalized armor! This is so exciting! 😄

Lancelot: ...

Gwen: (frowns, worried, lowering the tape) What is it, love?

Lancelot: Nothing. Just… this new assignment doesn't sit right with me.

Gwen: Why? The pay's better, isn't it? And you'll finally have knight's duties, even if it’s just guarding Merlin.

Lancelot: (chuckle dryly) I doubt Arthur's thrilled about me shadowing Merlin every hour.

Gwen: You were already watching him on Arthur's orders. Uther just made it official. Arthur trusts you. (kisses his cheek) You have nothing to worry about.

Lancelot: (smiles) You're right. (thinking) But Arthur isn’t the one I’m worried about.

Lancelot has always been perceptive. That’s how he spotted Merlin’s magic first, how he guessed Arthur knew long before Merlin’s magic confession, how he foreseen Arthur’s jealousy would turn deadly for Gwaine. Lancelot is not only observant, he knows how to read people, he is intuitive.

So when Uther "graciously" assigned him, Gwaine, and Percival as Merlin’s guards, he knew something was up. Uther never liked Merlin, even tried to get rid of him in the past. Why would he suddenly give him protection?

And, as always, his sixth sense didn't fail him.

Back to the present. In Uther's chambers.

Uther: (leaning forward, voice dropping to a whisper) Your true task… is to spy on him.

Lancelot: (strategically stays silent)

Percival: (confused, quietly) ... What?

Uther: I want reports. His movements, his conversations, who he speaks to, what he speaks of. And a throughtful investigation.

Gwaine: (tone deliberately light) Bit paranoid, aren't we? I know he's the prince's favourite and all, but he's just a servant boy. His past is as humble as ours. What's there to find?

Uther: (spits, like it pains to admit it) That "servant boy" has more influence over Arthur than my entire council. (sighs) My son's judgment is already rotted by him. And I doubt deeply, that a "simple peasant" could claw his way this far. (Sharply) Start by checking his chambers tomorrow.

Gwaine: (opening his mouth to refuse)

Lancelot: (stepping forward, tone wrapped in courtesy) I regret to disobey, your Majesty, but I must refuse. Merlin is my friend and the very reason I stand in this castle. I can't, on my good conscience, betray him. If that brands me a traitor… (bows slightly) I’ll bear the consequences.

Uther: I see... If there is something I value, Lancelot, is loyalty. I'd never ask a man to break his principles.

Lancelot: (sighs in relief)

Uther: Not even to protect those he loves. (Softly.) Like your intended. Guinevere, was it?

Lancelot: (goes very still)

Uther: (silkily) You did speak of marrying her, didn’t you? A family of your own?

Lancelot: (the color draining from his face, voice tight)... Yes.

Uther: (nodding, as if pleased) And as an honorable man, you'd always seek what's best for her. Safety. Security. Favor.

The threat hangs, unspoken. Both Gwaine and Percival can see it as clear as day.

Lancelot: Of course, Sire.

Uther: So... Will you serve your king?

Lancelot: (a pause, then defeated) Yes, your Majesty.

Uther: (to the others) Any other objections?

Gwaine and Percival: ...

Gwaine: (flashing a razor-sharp grin that doesn't reach his eyes) Consider us your loyal spies, sire.

Time skip. The next day. Gwaine and Lancelot searching Merlin's chambers while Percival takes his first turn guarding Merlin.

Gwaine: (pulls out a red dress, smirking) Will you look at that? He did keep the dress. (tosses it aside, digs deeper) Nothing. Just some rich clothes and others that've seen better days.

Lancelot: (flipping through a herbology tome) Standard medicinal texts. (passes it to Gwaine) There's nothing worth reporting here. Let's go.

Gwaine: (catching the book) We barely started. (meets Lancelot's glare) I hate this as much as you do. But we can't return empty-handed. (pages through the book, pauses) Oh… he made margin notes.

Lancelot: So?

Gwaine: (tracing Merlin's handwriting) Well, it's odd. Peasants usually don't know how to read or write.

Lancelot: (chuckles, nervous) Surely Gaius taught him. He's the physician's apprentice. Or maybe Arthur.

Gwaine: (snaps the book shut) Right… Not suspicious enough for His Majesty. (mockingly) "The servant boy knows his letters. Burn him at the stake!"

Lancelot: (thinking) He would.

Gwaine: (looks at the perfectly made bed and snorts) I don't think he's been sleeping here lately.

While Gwaine kneels by the bed, lifting the edge of the blanket to peer underneath, Lancelot freezes as he opens a drawer and spots a folded parchment.

"My dear Gaius, I turn to you for I feel lost and alone and I don’t know who to trust...." The ink blurs as Lancelot's grip tightens. The content itself isn't incriminatory. Not enough to put Merlin in trouble. But maybe does rise enough suspicion. It's also a private letter, giving it to the King, regardless of the content, feels like betrayal either way.

Gwaine: (muffled from under the bed) Unless Merlin's hiding treasonous dust bunnies, we're out of luck here.

The parchment crinkles in Lancelot's tightening grip. His mind flashes to Gwen laughing as she braids a ribbon into a little girl's hair. Uther's cold smile as he said "Guinevere". Merlin clapping him on the back after his training with Arthur.

Gwaine: (emerging, dust in his hair) Find anything?

Lancelot's back remains turned. He could hide the letter now, vanish it into his tunic. Gwaine would never—

Another flash: Gwen's face when the baker's son "disappeared" after speaking against Uther.

Gwaine: (standing up) Lancelot?

Lancelot: (turns, his voice like gravel) Yeah... (extends the letter) I think I found something.

Time skip. In the throne room. Uther sits sternly on his throne, flanked by Gaius, Percival, and Gwaine.

Merlin: (enters with Lancelot and bows respectfully) You summoned me, Sire?

Uther: (cold, measured) The charade ends today. I know your secret.

Merlin: (heart lurching) What? 😨

Uther: Your true purpose in Camelot. Why you cling to my son. Your deceptions. I know everything.

Merlin: (sweats, thinking in panic) He knows about my magic? The prophecy? How?! (says, swallowing hard) I… don't understand what you're accusing me of.

Uther: I'm just waiting for my son to reveal your true colors.

Uther's gaze flicks toward the side entrance just as Arthur strides in. The prince takes in the scene: Gaius' tension, Merlin's pallor, Merlin's new gruards hanging his head as if ashamed, his father's triumphant glare.

Arthur: (bows) Father (eyes darting to Merlin) What's the meaning of this?

Uther: (pulls out the letter and extends it to Arthur) Read it. Outloud.

Merlin: (pales, recognising the letter) That’s my mother’s letter! How did he—?

Arthur: (confused, takes the letter and starts reading) "My dear Gaius, I turn to you for I feel lost and alone and I don’t know who to trust". (pause, brow furrowing) "It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, but the kind of special Merlin is....is the kind that can’t go unnoticed". (A cold realization dawns and glances at Uther, eyes wide) Father-

Uther: (sharp) Continue.

Arthur: (reluctanly reads, quieter and slower) "Ours is a small village and his talents are too great to stay here. I fear what would become of him". (looks at Merlin worried) "While I know it is dangerous for Merlin to stay in Camelot with you, I also know that there is where he can learn the skills he needs to survive"

Merlin’s jaw clenches, his eyes crystallizing, not out of fear or sorrow, but impotence and anger. His mother’s fear, her love, laid bare before the man who would burn him for it. A man who has no right to those words.

Arthur: (almost begging) Father, let me explain.

Uther: (sternly) Keep. Reading.

Arthur: (a pause, then between the teeth) "He needs a hand to hold, a voice to guide, someone that might help him find a purpose for his gifts".

Gwaine shifts uncomfortably. Lancelot’s face is ashen. Gaius’s fingers twitch, as if fighting the urge to intervene.

Arthur: (barely above a whisper) "I beg you, if you understand a mother's love for her child, show him the way, help him reach his goal and keep him safe. And may the Gods save you both. Hunith".

Gaius: Sire-

Uther: (sharp, lifting a hand) Silence. (leans forward) Well, Merlin? (slow, deliberate) What exactly are these 'gifts' your mother speaks of?

Merlin: (trembling) I... (thinking, on the verge of a panic attack) He knows. He totally knows. Shit, what do I do? I can escape the dungeons easily, but how will I protect Arthur if I'm a fugitive? This wasn't supposed to happened. Uther wasn't supposed to find out about me until he was a ghost! (says) I don't-

Arthur: (steps forward, protective) Father. I know how this looks, but a mother expressing her fears in a letter is evidence of nothing.

Uther: (smiling, dangerous) No? Then why does he look like a man walking to the gallows?

Merlin: (pleading eyes locking with Arthur) Arthur...

Uther: (stands up, raising his voice) I'll tell you why. Because his lies have been debunked! Because his treasonous plans are now out in the open!

Arthur: (puts himself between Merlin and Uther, subtly going for his sword)

Uther: HE WAS TRAINED TO SEDUCE YOU FROM THE START!

Merlin: ...

Arthur: ...

Literally everybody: ...

Merlin: ...What? 😧

Arthur: (hand freezes halfway to his sword. His face cycles through shock, disbelief, and something dangerously close to laughter) … Excuse me?

Uther: (storming down the dais steps) Don't play the fool! This letter proves it! (takes the parchment from Arthur and waves it wildly) "Show him the way"? "Help him reach his goal"? You were groomed to manipulate my son!

Merlin: (still pretty much in shock)I—what—uh?!

Uther: (turning to Gaius, voice dripping with betrayal) And you, old friend… have disappointed me beyond measure. To lend yourself to this. I never took you for the ambitious type.

Gaius: (very confused) I don’t—I'm not following.

Uther: You conspired with your sister—whose existence you hid from me, I might add—to plant your puppet on my son's throne. You betrayed me.

Gaius: (sighs deeply, partly relieved Merlin's magic wasn't discovered, partly trying to gain patience to deal with the king's new paranoia) I never spoke of her because she was born out of wedlock. My father sent her away to spare her the stigma. That’s all.

Merlin knew that. That’s why he never called Gaius 'uncle'. Never resented it either. He knew the weight of the word 'bastard' better than anyone. But what does Uther—?

Uther: And she grew resentful, didn't she? And greedy. So when she discovered her son's 'gifts', she groomed him, then sent him to you to finish the scheme!

Arthur: (sighs, not knowing if he is about to laugh or cry) For the love of... Father, this is ridiculous.

Uther: (soft, almost pitying) It’s not your fault, son. You can't see it. But every kindness, every clever word tailored for you. Every laugh, every glance… was calculated.

Merlin: (finally getting out of his shock, thinking) Oh my gods! That's what he thinks 'my gifts' are? 😨(offended) I'd rather he thinks I have magic than think my beautiful mother raised me to be Arthur's trained whore! 😡 (says, raising his voice) Sire, that's not true!

Arthur: (grabs Merlin's arm, hissing) Merlin, shut up.

Merlin: (wrenches free) NO! I'm not going to let him keep thinking that. It's an insult to me and my mother!

Uther: Stop pretending, your true nature has been revealed.

Merlin: That's NOT what my mother was referring to. She was talking about my-

Gaius: (raises his voice) HERBALISM skills!

Uther: (turns to Gaius, incredulous) … Herbalism?

Gaius: Precisely! I taught Hunith the healing arts years ago. When she saw Merlin's… exceptional talent with comfrey and feverfew, she begged me to mentor him. (grows more confident) Those were the "gifts" she referenced. His uncanny ability to distinguish wolfsbane from yarrow!

Merlin: ... Yes, that exactly.

Arthur: (covering his face with both hands, thinking, his heart racing) You were about to reveal MAGIC over this?! Of all the idiotic things-

Uther: You expect me to believe a peasant boy's herbal knowledge warranted such dramatic pleading?

Gaius: (calm but firm) With all due respect, Sire. Your prejudice is clouding your discernment of the truth.

Merlin: (eagerly nodding) Yes!

Gaius: (weaving truth with diplomacy) Hunith educated Merlin, yes, but only to give him a better life as my apprentice. I confess that there were plans for Merlin to achieve a better position in that sense, but they didn't even remotely include Arthur. It's absurd to think that. For starters, there was no way to anticipate Arthur's... preferences. Your theory that Merlin was trained to seduce him is illogical. It would make more sense if Merlin were a woman, because before his arrival Arthur had never shown interest in men. You are insulting my sister, my nephew and me, with no really solid basis.

Merlin: (nodding effusively, while thinking) Gaius, you are a genius. I love you! We are safe!

Uther: (eyes darkening) If it were the past, I would accept your explanation and grant you your reason. But now, after all I've seen, I understand the extent of your manipulation. I cannot trust your word. (voice dropping) Arthur may be my son, but it was you he confided in and was fond of. (red eyes from paranoia) Perhaps you realized something I didn't. Perhaps you saw beyond the facade of an exemplary and responsible prince. (raises his voice) Perhaps you discovered his yearnings and his deepest desires. And then you conspired with your sister to make them come true!

Merlin: (thinking) ... Or maybe not.

Arthur: (not being able to help it anymore, suddenly bursts out laughing, doubling over and clutching his ribs) HAHAHA-oh gods-my sides— 😂

Everyone: (stare)

Merlin: (furious whisper) What are you doing? This is not funny! 😠

Arthur: (wheezing, wiping tears) I'm sorry it's just-we thought he-but then he said-and we all-and now... (collapses into fresh giggles) Father, you should-HA!-take up fiction-you'd put every court bard to shame (gasps for air) I can't... I can't breath! 😂

Merlin: (thinking) I hope you choke. 😑

Gwaine: (pretty much wanting to laugh too, but he doesn't have the privilege of being the prince to laugh at the king so he covers his mouth with a fist instead)

Merlin: (hisses) Arthur, they are slandering my entire family, remember?

Arthur: (the last remnants of laughter, finally composing himself) Right, right. (take some deep breaths and caughs)

Lancelot: (gives him a vase of water)

Arthur: Thank you. (drinks and turns to Uther, serious) Father… while hilariously inventive… (coughs) your theory makes zero strategic sense.

Uther: (icy stare) What I feared, you are already too immersed in their networks.

Arthur: (spreads his hands) I'm in NO ONE's networks. This conspiracy exists solely in your head.

Uther: What more proof do you require?

Arthur: (exasperated) There. Is. No. Proof. A letter with vague wording isn't evidence, it's desperation.

Uther: Really? (dramatic pause) Then let's see how quickly they confess when I bring that woman here.

Arthur: (dreading) What woman?

Uther: The mind behind this plot. The womb that bore this… (points at Merlin) abomination.

Merlin: (pales) You're bringing my mom? 😨

Arthur: (pales too)

Uther: I already sent for her.

Time skip. In the castle corridor.

Lancelot, Percival and Gwaine: (look at each other, worried)

Gaius: (sighs) May the gods help us.

Merlin: (pacing) What am I going to do? (drags his hands down his face) I haven't even told my mother about us! I wanted to tell her properly, in person, not like this! (voice cracks) What if your father declares her a traitor? What if-

Arthur: (steadying him by the shoulders) Breathe. Nothing will happen to her. He has no real evidence-

Merlin: Since when has that stopped him? He executed sorcerers on rumors!

Arthur: He's irrational about magic, yes, but not with other crimes. Not that he's exactly in his right mind now, but, even when he accused you of murdering Sophia and her father, he did an investigation and questioned you first.

Merlin: (sarcastic) Yeah, and that turned out very well. 😒

Arthur: (pulls him closer) It did in the end. Because I was there to solve it. And I WILL solve this. (holds his hands) I won't let anything happen to her or you. (squeezes his hands) Trust me.

Merlin: (sighs)... Okay. (suddenly shoves Arthur) I'm still mad at you for laughing, though. 😠 (stomps off)

Arthur: (chasing after, grinning) Oh, come on! Admit it was at least a little funny- (His foot catches on a cube that magically crosses his path and he crashes to the floor with a yelp)

Merlin: (turns, smirking) No, THAT was funny. (whirls away, his monk cloak snapping dramatically)

Arthur: (scrambling up) Did you just- (shouts after him) Merlin! 😡 That was dangerous! You could-

Merlin: (making a 'talk with the hand gesture', his back turned at Arthur) Yeah, yeah. (rounds a corner) Get stuffed. (and leaves)

Arthur: (sighs, muttering) How he hided his magic so well before is beyond me. (but smiles)

Time skip. Merlin encounters Lancelot, Gwaine and Percival.

Merlin: (rolls his eyes) Oh, wonderful. Who's babysitting me this time?

Lancelot, Gwaine and Percival: (looking very guilty, stay silent) ...

Merlin: (worried) Is something wrong?

Lancelot: Merlin we need to tell you something.

Merlin: Sure, what is it?

Gwaine: We know how Uther got that letter.

Merlin: (dismissive wave) Well, is not that hard to tell. He ordered my chambers searched. Which reminds me, I need to check if anything else is-

Lancelot: (raises his voice) It was us!

Merlin: ...

Merlin: (his voice barely above a whisper) What?

Lancelot: It was us who Uther sent to search your chambers.

Merlin: (his face a mix of atonishment and betrayal)

Percival: We didn't want to, but we had no choice. He's the king.

Gwaine: He even threatened Lancelot with Gwen's safety. You have to understand-

Merlin: (stumbles back as if struck, face cycling through shock, hurt, then bitter amusement) Of course I understand. (Barks a hollow laugh, looking at Gwaine and Percival) I'm just a servant boy you just met a few days ago, why would you confront the king, risk your neck for me? It's stupid.

Gwaine: (hurt) Merlin, that's not-

Merlin: (eyes glistening but voice steady) No, no, I get it. (To Lancelot, softer) Gwen's your world. I'd never ask you to choose differently. (Turns abruptly.) Now if you’ll excuse me. (strides away fast)

Lancelot: (lunging forward) Wait-Merlin!

Gwaine: (lunging forward too)

Percival: (Stops them, putting his arms in front of them) Give him some space.

Time skip. In the Castle Ramparts. Merlin stares blankly over the Lower Town, fingers gripping the stone parapet too tight. His jaw clenches, then releases with a shuddering breath.

Merlin: I shouldn't be angry. They had no choice… just like last time.

Merlin's flashback.

In the dungeons. Shortly after enchanted Gwen got Merlin arrested and Merlin cured Arthur.

Gwaine: (entering, hesitant) The king's recovering and ordered a proper investigation.

Merlin: (flat, not looking up) Really? I'm glad.

Gwaine: (steps closer, voice urgent) I know you didn't do it. None of us think you-

Merlin: (head snaps up, eyes blazing) Could've fooled me! (stands abruptly) Where was this conviction when Gwen pointed her finger? Where were any of you?

Gwaine: (flinches, then steels himself) We couldn't speak against the queen! You have to understand. Nobels still question her position. If we, Arthur's most trusted knights, had contradicted her, how would that make her look?

Merlin: You never cared about nobels before.

Gwaine: That was before I found a king worth serving! You showed me that king, Merlin. Do you think Arthur would want his queen-his grieving queen-undermined?

Merlin: (sighs, shoulders slumping) No. I suppose he wouldn't.

Gwaine: (grabs his hair in a distress gesture) I don't know what got into her head to even conceive-(his voice drops) She hasn't been herself since Elyan's death.

Merlin: (murmurs) Indeed.

Gwaine: I'm really sorry. For what it's worth, we had an escape plan ready for you. Horses, supplies. Everything. We'd never have let it go that far.

Merlin: (turns his back at him)

Gwaine: (swallows hard) Well, I.. I'll… keep you updated. (turns to leave)

Merlin: Gwaine.

Gwaine: (freezes mid-step)

Merlin: I liked you better when you weren't a knight

Silence.

Gwaine: ... So did I. (leaves)

Back to the present.

Merlin exhales sharply, pressing palms to his stinging eyes. A series of footsteps scrapes behind him. He doesn’t need to turn to know who they are.

Merlin: I don't need the three of you to guard me.

Lancelot: We're not here as guards.

Merlin: I'm not hearing apologies either. I said I understood.

Gwaine: Merlin, just let us-

Merlin: I don't need to hear-

Arthur: Actually, you do.

Merlin: (finally turns around, surprised) Arthur?

Arthur: (his serious face a blend of royal fury and dread, which is already alarming) I followed you. Overheard a bit of your conversation. Almost killed them for it. (glares at the others) But turns out they might have just saved your life.

Merlin: What are you-?

Lancelot: The letter wasn't the only thing we found in your chambers.

Lancelot's flashback.

In Merlin's chambers, just when Lancelot found the letter.

Lancelot: I think I found something.(hand retracting) Actually, never mind. It's nothing.

Gwaine: (already crossing the room) Oh come off it- (The floorboard shrieks under his boot. He stops mid-step, then stomps again and again)

Lancelot: What are you doing?

Gwaine: This sounds hollow. (bends down and notices) And this board is loose.

Lancelot: (in panic) Leave it—! (tries to stop him, but Gwaine's dagger is already prying up the loose board)

Gwaine: (whistles low) Bloody hell... (lifts the sidhe stuff Merlin kept after defeating Aulfric and Sophia) What is this? A cane?

Lancelot: (reaching desperately) It's just-a handmade gift! Probably... You know Merlin's very into-eh-crafting. (makes a grab)

Gwaine: (twirling the Sidhe staff like a baton) A Handmade scepter for His Royal Highness? And I thought the necklace was too much. (taps it against a bedpost, the stuff chiming like crystal)

Lancelot: (lunging again) For God's sake- (misses as Gwaine pivots away) Put that down!

Gwaine: (still playing with it) Should we bring this to the king?

Lancelot: (shouts) NO! (composes himself) I mean, we don't know why he might do to it. He may ruin all Merlin's work- (yelps when Gwaine throws the stuff in the air and catches it) Like you could right now! PUT IT BACK!

Gwaine: (pauses, sighing) Alright... (but suddenly grins and tosses it high) Catch!

The staff spins in the air and Lancelot dives, but misses as it clatters to the floor. It's then when shockwave energy erupts, sending both guards slamming into opposite walls. Merlin's cot flips vertically and parchments in the room swirl around like a tornado.

Gwaine: (staggers to his feet, clutching his head) What the actual fuck was that?!

Lancelot: (stands up, saying too quickly) An earthquake. Obviously.

Gwaine: (shaking) That was NOT an earthquake! (points wildly at the staff on the floor) It was that THING.

Lancelot: (lifting an eyebrow) You think a wooden stick moved the earth?

Gwaine: No, but... That-that light-

Lancelot: A light? (forces a chuckle) You must've hit your head hard. Come on, let's get you to Gaius.

Gwaine: (rubbing his temples, confused) I… I guess you're right…

Lancelot: (sighs in relief)

Gwaine: We should clean this mess, though. (picks up a book) We don't want Merlin to suspect we were here.

Lancelot: (impacient) The earthquake would explain the disorder, don't you think? (though he runs to put the staff back under the floor)

Gwaine: (slapping his forehead) Right! Gods, I did hit my head hard- (pauses as the open book page catches his eye) Wait...'elemental magic'?

Lancelot: (pales)

Gwaine: (flips the cover to confirm) This was the herbology book, but it didn't say this before. (a pause) Hold on, isn't magic forbidden in Camelo-

Lancelot: (unsheathes his sword and points it at Gwaine's throat)

Gwaine: ...

Gwaine: (realises) Oh.

Lancelot: (thrusts)

Gwaine: (evades just time) Aah! Wait!

Lancelot: (keeps trying to slay him, chasing him around the room)

Gwaine: (uses a pillow as shield as he goes for his sword) Would you stop! I'm no going to say anything!

Lancelot: Why should I trust your word? (thrusts again, sword going through the pillow)

Gwaine: BECAUSE I LOVE MERLIN!

Silence. Feathers still float in the air as both knights freeze, Gwaine's accidental confession hanging between them.

Gwaine: Wow... It's the first time I admit it to myself. (smiles) It feels good to say it out loud-(ducks Lancelot's sudden slash) Hey!

Lancelot: (swords clashing) If I don't kill you, Arthur will. Don't worry I'll make it quick. (vicious overhead strike)

Gwaine: (parrying desperately) I thought we were friends! (kicks over a chair as barrier)

Lancelot: (leaps over it) That's why I'm sparing you from a tortuous death at the hands of the prince! (blade nicks Gwaine's sleeve)

Gwaine: (manages to disarm Lancelot and points the sword at his throat) Now, will you listen to me?

Lancelot: (glares)

Gwaine: Oh... (grins) I didn't know you loved Merlin too.

Lancelot: (chokes) What?! 😧

Gwaine: Why else would you kill to keep him safe? (puts the sword down) Besides, I've noticed that the prince doesn't like how close you two are, and Merlin considers you-

Lancelot: I'm courting Gwen! 😠

Gwaine: I mean, you wouldn't be the first man I've met who's in a relationship with a woman and thinks about his friend. 😏

Lancelot: (mouth hanging open, very offended) First, I don't harbor such feelings for Merlin. Second, that's a disgraceful accusation. Third, I protect him because he's my friend, the closest I have to a family, and the prince himself asked me to.

Gwaine: (genuinely touched) That's… actually sweet. It's hard to find such unconditional friendships-wait, THE PRINCE KNOWS?! 😨

Lancelot: His Highness knows everything about Merlin.

Gwaine: Damn... And I thought now I had I way to get closer to him.

Lancelot: (escandalised) You were going to blackmail him with his secret?

Gwaine: Of course not! You think so badly of me? I just figured… maybe he'd finally say yes to drinks if I proved I could keep his secret.

Lancelot: ...

Lancelot: You know, I've never met another man who tempts death as much as you. And I know Merlin.

Gwaine: (very serious) Yeah, about that, what is a sorcerer doing in Camelot, working in the royal castle and serving the prince?

Lancelot: That's... kind of a long story.

Gwaine: Well, tell me, because if you haven't noticed, I'm already in on this. If I'm going to risk my neck, at least I have the right to know the full story.

Back to the present.

Lancelot finishes to tell everything (except Gwaine's love confession for obvious reasons). Meanwhile, Merlin's breathing grows rapid, fingers digging into his own arms as the weight of exposure crashes over him.

Lancelot: (assures quickly) After that we restored everything. Fortunately, the staff's magic didn't escape the room. But we had to hide the book with the staff-

Merlin: (on the verge of an anxiety attack) Right, because it dissolved the glamour! (hysterical laugh) Because that book was supposed to look like herbology! (laughs harder) But you saw it. That's great! Fantastic! (curls up on the floor, hiding his face in his hands, still laughing)

Arthur: (sits next to him, worried)

Gwaine: We protected the real secret, Merlin. If we hadn't given Uther something, he would've sent someone else. The letter was harmless compare to-

Merlin: So now all of you know?

Percival: Actually, I just found out. When Arthur confronted us about the letter.

Merlin: (glares at Arthur)

Arthur: (glares at Percival) You could've omitted that.

Merlin: (back hitting the stone parapet as his legs give out, voice trembling) Two... Two more people know. (thinking) How can this be? In my other life no one discovered me but Lancelot and Gaius! And lancelot wasn't around much. I carried my secret mostly alone for years and now...I don't know how to handle this. It's too much!

Arthur: (puts a firm arm around Merlin's shoulders, both protectively and possessively) It's alright, your secret is safe (glances at the others, eyes flashing warningly) Right?

Gwaine: (steps forward, hand over heart) Merlin, I'd sooner throw myself from these walls than betray you.

Percival: (nods) If you think about it, it's better that we know. As both your guards and Uther's… unofficial watchers, we can steer suspicion away.

Merlin: (exhales shakily, finally calming) Okay...(smiles at Percival and Gwaine) Thank you.

Percival and Gwaine: (smile back)

Arthur: (suddenly scowls) On the other hand, we really have to discuss your appalling hiding places. What possessed you to keep the Sidhe staff under your floorboards?!

Merlin: (throws his hands up) You never know when it can come in handy! Like when we needed to fake the Mage Stone for Tauren! And you (jabs finger at Arthur) don't get to lecture me about secrets when you told Percival!

Arthur: (indignant) I did not! It slipped from them (points at Lancelot and Gwaine) I assumed Percival already knew!

Merlin: (a mocking gasp) Oh, that makes it so much better!

Arthur: (gestures wildly toward the castle) You kept a magic book in plain sight!

Merlin: (crossing arms defensively) It had a glamour! A proper one! I not my fault Gwaine triggered the-

Lancelot, Gwaine and Percival: (watch silently as the argument escalates into physical shoving) ...

Gwaine: Ahm... Should we-?

Lancelot: No, it doesn't last.

Percival: They are... wrestling.

Lancelot: Harmless.

Gwaine: Do we still have to be here?

Lancelot: I mean, we were taking turns before. Who wants to stay?

Percival: Aaand they are kissing now.

Gwaine: Yep, my shift's over. (leaves)

FIRST PART (SERIES 1) >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

....

I told you it was going to be long! There are many things that were left out: Gaius questioning Merlin why he never gave him the letter, Merlin forgiving Gwaine and the rest later in his flashback, Arthur confronting the knights about the letter, Gwaine convincing Lancelot to give the letter to Uther to protect Merlin in Lancelot’s flashback, etc. But adding them meant either ruin the effect of surprise, or make the post more innecessarily long that it already was. Also Hunith's letter is slightly different from canon due to time travel (and drama purposes).

Next part will resume the events of canon, which means "Beauty and the Beast" is coming! There's going to be interesting changes! 👀

Tagging @aceauthorcatqueen , @jasreadz , @smileytrinity , @lucifertookmyshoe @an-entity-i-think , @thecornerofbelu , @griffonskies , @odinjm , @cinnabon-sweetroll-tiramisu , @thelady-mary , @bennedict , @nightninjaboy , @st8-of-grace , @cess-hot-tub , @dogberryrowan , @jamieweasley13 , @tansyuduri , @tercais , @robynnemrys , @evadne01 , @serasvictoria02 , @hairdryerducks , @curiously-lazy , @harriettesthings , @wacko-weirdo , @greatdonutenemy , @yougottobekittenme , @anxiousosaurus , @kinkforwings , @someweirdassnamee , @impracticalantlers , @miyriu , @hobipabo , @whitemaskcd , @bogslob , @braziiis , @tarandrus-art, @thebigoblin , @toomanyfanficsbruh , @farmboyprince , @nonsensefunsense , @slightly-psycho-multifan , @jxmimac , @anarchelsworld , @beepbeep-yeah , @oikawano1kinnie , @the-moons-undying-light , @atlasflower , @chaosofbelievers , (tagging the rest in the comments cause apparently you can't tag that many people)

[larluce]

Hello, Dear wonderful readers,

I’m so sorry to ask this, but I’ve hit a really tough spot financially. It’s been weighing on me heavily, making it hard to focus on writing. Or much else, honestly.

If you’re able and willing to help, even a tiny bit, it would mean the world to me. You can support me making a donation through my Ko-fi account. No pressure, just gratitude. Thank you for being there, in any way you can. I’ll never forget your kindness.

[larluce]

I EDITED THE MERTHUR TIME TRAVEL AU MASTERLIST JUST SO YOU KNOW!

I added the episodes or events each part covers, mostly because series 1 was written in non-chronological order, so this way you don't get confused.

Hey do you have a master list for your time travel fic cause I keep losing my spot and then have to clock next part for the next 5 mins.

Well I do have a # where I link all the parts and related posts of the AU in my pinned masterlist, but I guess is still tedious to check every post there. So I'll make an exclusive masterlist for my merthur time travel AU here now:

¡¡Official masterlist of Arthur and Merlin travel back in time without knowing the other is from the future too AU!!

SERIES 1:

PART 1 (concept summary, a bit of the beginning + flashforward),

PART 2 (Arthur's life before he travel back in time)

PART 3 (snippets of "The Dragon's Call", "The Poisoned Chalice" and "Lancelot")

PART 4 (snippets of "Valiant", "The Mark of Nimueh", "The Gates of Avalon" and "Excalibur" )

PART 5 ("The Beginning of the End")

PART 6 (Begins Merlin's conection to trees/after the events of "Le Morte d'Arthur")

PART 7 (How Arthur deals with Merlin's new "sickness"/before the events of "The Curse of Cornelius Sigan")

PART 8 (more of "The Dragon's Call")

PART 9 (more of "Valiant")

PART 10 (more of "The Mark of Nimueh")

PART 11 ("The Curse of Cornelius Sigan")

PART 12 (More of "The Poisoned Chalice")

PART 13 (Merthur first fight and jealous Arthur/before the events of "Lancelot")

PART 14 ("Remedy to Cure All Ills")

PART 15 ("To kill a king")

PART 16 (Uther losing his shit due to Arthur's lovesick acts/from "The Dragon's Call" to Lancelot's arrival)

PART 17 (Gaius going father mode/after the events of "The Mark of Nimueh")

PART 18 ("Le Morte d'Arthur" + flashforward of series 2)

PART 19 (More of "The Gates of Avalon")

PART 20 (More of "The Gates of Avalon")

PART 21 (Lancelot and Gwen get together + Arthur's flashback/before the events of "Lancelot")

PART 22 (More of "Excalibur" + ""The moment of truth")

PART 23 ("The moment of truth")

PART 24 ("The moment of truth")

PART 25 ("The Labyrinth of Gedref")

PART 26 ("The Labyrinth of Gedref")

PART 27 ("The Labyrinth of Gedref")

PART 28 ("The Labyrinth of Gedref")

PART 29 ("The Labyrinth of Gedref")

PART 30 ("The Labyrinth of Gedref")

TRAILER SERIES 1 (made by @ramblings-of-a-chaotic-neutral )

SERIES 2:

PART 1 ("The Once and Future Queen")

PART 2 ("The Nightmare Begins")

PART 3 ("The Nightmare Begins")

PART 4 ("Lancelot and Guinevere"/Gwaine appears)

PART 5 ("Lancelot and Guinevere"/Percival appears)

PART 6 (Gwaine brazenly flirting with Merlin/jealous Arthur)

PART 7 (Gwaine and Arthur fight)

PART 8 (Aftermath of the fight)

PART 9 (Morgana and Gaius have an important talk with Arthur and Merlin respectively)

PART 10 (SOON)

TRAILER SERIES 2

[larluce]

I have a confession to make (I'm saying this only because I thought you might finds this funny). I love your fics, in fact I think I've re-read the one about time travel at least 4 times (in various stages of completion) but I can't for the love of god ever remember your username. Everytime I search you up I think "It's something similar to Lettuce" while scrolling down my following page. Anyway, I hope you have a great day, cheers!

Hahahhaha! XD I don’t blame you. It's the word "Cellphone" in spanish (Celular) but its syllables in different order (Larluce). Used to do that a lot with random words as a kid to create new names for imaginary characters and places when playing ^^.

I'm glad you're liking my Merthur Time Travel AU so far! ❤️ Have a nice day you too! 🥰

[larluce]

Merlin as Arthur's familiar/Arthur's shapeshifter falcon AU

FIRST PART >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

(This part is dedicated to @theroundbartable , who some time ago made an interesting question: "How would familiar Merlin interact with Kilgharrah?" Here's the answer to that)

Before Merlin discovered he was a familiar and shortly after his wing healed. In Arthur's chambers.

Arthur: (enters, hiding Merlin in his bird form inside his jacket, then closes the door and takes him out, sighing in relief) That was close.

Merlin: (chirps) I could've just flown in through the window, you know? 😒

Arthur: (grabs the box and murmurs) Maybe not make it so obvious. (puts the box in a shelf, between a couple of books) Hmmm... (covers Merlin with the cloth) There!

Arthur: (glancing at the door) Shh! They can’t know you're still here.

Merlin: (nods and hops onto a makeshift nest his human made: a box lined with an old cloth)

Merlin: (thinks) Your camouflage skills leave much to be desired. 🙄

Arthur: (blinks) Did you just... roll your eyes at me? (shakes his head) Ugh, I must be imagining things.

Time skip. At night. Arthur sleeping on his bed and Merlin in his little box.

Mysterious voice: Merlin... Merlin!

(a pause, thoughtful) A predator that announces itself in human language? 🤨

Merlin: (waking up, thinking) Ugh, it's that voice again. (pauses, flexing his wing experimentally) Wait—my wing’s fine now. I could follow it (hesitates, eyes narrowing) Or it’s a predator. 😑

Mysterious voice: Merlin.

Merlin: Could be calling any merlin.

Mysterious voice: Merlin.

Merlin: Or maybe is a merlin calling for help?

Mysterious voice: MERLIN!

Merlin: FINE! But if it's a trap, I'm hunting you first! (flies through the window)

Time skip. In the cave underneath the castle.

Merlin: (enters flying and lands on the stone floor) Hello?

Kilgharrah: (appears before him) I'm here.

Merlin: (takes in the sheer size of the great dragon, his feathers puff out in instinctive terror)

Kilgharrah: (looks down the little bird, somehow amused) How small you are, for such a great-

Merlin: (screeches loudly in full-blown panic, wings flailing) PREDATOR! 😱 (flies away)

Kilgharrah: No! Wait! I'm not going to- (sighs as the distant terrified chirps fade) Aaand he's gone. 🤦‍♂️

In Arthur's chambers.

Merlin: (Bursts through the window and zooms in circles around the room, frantic) PREDATOR! THERE'S A PREDATOR UNDERNEATH THE CASTLE!

Arthur: (wakes up) Wha...? Bird? What is it?

Merlin: (flying around Arthur, in hyperventilating chirps) A predator, Arthur! A big predator! We have to flee!

Arthur: (hisses) Stop it! You're going to wake everybody!

Merlin: (latches onto Arthur's nightshirt with tiny talons, desperately tugging) Move, move, move!

Arthur: (finally registering Merlin's terror) Okay, clearly something is upsetting you.

Merlin: (keeps pulling Arthur's nightshirt) We are gonna die! 😭

Arthur: (manages to catch Merlin mid-air, cupping him firmly but gently)

Merlin: (struggles) No! let go! The big predator will kill us all!

Arthur: (rocks the little bird against his chest) Shhh, breathe. Calm down.

Merlin: (his frantic fluttering slows to shaky trembles, his tiny chest heaving) P-pre-predator… 🥺(whimpering chirp) B-bi-big predator… 😢

Since then the voice would keep calling him in his head. Sometimes saying nonsense about him not being a real bird. Merlin would turn it off.

Arthur: (softly, thumb stroking Merlin's feathers) Everything's fine. I've got you.

Then he found out he was a familiar, so he decided to pay the dragon a visit. He was still scared of the big predator, but if it hasn't left the cave in so long, maybe it was safe to speak to it. And he needed answers after all.

In the cave underneath the castle.

Merlin: (walks in in his human form, carrying a bundle of freshly hunted birds)

Kilgharrah: (eyes gleaming in the dark) At last, you deign to visit me. (sniffs the dead birds) What is this?

Merlin: Prey for you. (puts the birds on the ground) So you don't eat me.

Kilgharrah: (stares at the pitiful pile, then bursts into laughter) Trust me, little one, birds are not part of my diet.

Merlin: (crosses his arms) That’s exactly what a predator would say. 😑

Kilgharrah: (leans in, fanged grin) Even if they were… you are no true bird. Are you, Merlin?

Silence.

Merlin: (quietly) You knew. You knew I was a familiar.

Kilgharrah: (eyes glowing with ancient knowing) Indeed. Though I must say, I didn’t expect you in this form.

Merlin: My human form is bigger. I didn't want to feel so small beside you. (quieter) I'm still... getting used to this body.

Kilgharrah: (chuckles) I didn't mean that… but I also meant it.

Merlin: (frowns) You talk strange.

Kilgharrah: Some people say that.

Another silence.

Merlin: (gaze drifts to the cavern floor, his next question tentative) Do you know if there are… others like me? Familiars?

Kilgharrah: (turns serious) In this plane? I fear not. You are the last of your kin.

Merlin: (thinking, sad) So I don’t have a family, then.

Kilgharrah shifts, chains clanking against stone. The sound makes Merlin flinch.

Kilgharrah: (low, resonant) I understand that ache, little familiar. I, too, am the last of mine.

Merlin: (eyes snap to the dragon's shackles, in horrified realization) You're… trapped. (a pause, then softer, haunted) It’s like being in a cage.

Kilgharrah: (voice trembling with centuries of rage) This… and the extermination of my kin… was done by the monster who now sits upon the throne.

Merlin: (takes a step back) Arthur's… father?

Kilgharrah: The one who must be stopped. And that, young familiar, is your destiny.

Merlin: (baffled) Destiny?

Kilgharrah: Your magic was given to you for a reason. Arthur is the Once and Future King who will unite the lands of Albion.

Merlin: (confused) ... Right.

Kilgharrah: But he faces many threats from friend and foe alike.

Merlin: (shrugs) That part I know. But what's that got to do with me?

Kilgharrah: (intense) Everything. Without you, Arthur will never succeed. Without you, there will be no Albion.

Merlin: Why would Arthur need more land? The castle's already bigger than any cave, nest, or den I've ever seen.

Kilgharrah: (frustrated growl) Because unless he succeeds, magic will never return to this land!

Merlin: (backing away) Wait, wait, wait. You want Arthur to bring back magic? Sorcerers?

Kilgharrah: (nods) And all magical creatures, yes.

Merlin: (scared) NO! He can't do that! Sorcerers are evil! They tried to hurt me. They put me in a cage!

Kilgharrah: ...

Kilgharrah: You cannot be serious. You are magic itself.

Merlin: (voice cracking) I didn't choose this! I was happy as just a bird! And now you're telling me my 'destiny' is to help bring back the monsters who wanted to enslave me?!

The dragon opens his mouth, but Merlin is already storming toward the exit.

Kilgharrah: (calling after him) Wait, there's clearly been a misunderstanding-

Merlin: (whirling around, eyes blazing) You're just like them! You're all evil! And I... I actually felt sorry for you!

With that, Merlin changes to his bird forms and flies away from the cave, leaving Kilgharrah alone in the dark.

Time skip. In Arthur's chambers.

Merlin: (flies inside through the window and changes to his human form)

Arthur: (leaping from his desk, nearly knocking over an inkpot) Merlin! (dashes to lock the door, hissing) Are you trying to get us executed?! Stay in your bird form!

Merlin: (ignoring him, gripping Arthur’s shoulders) WE HAVE TO KILL THE DRAGON!

Arthur: ...

Arthur: What? 😧

Merlin: (shaking him) The one under the castle! It's dangerous!

Arthur: (prying Merlin's hands off) Merlin-

Merlin: (frantic, pacing) I don’t know why your father kept it alive! It could escape! He killed the others. Why not this one?!

Arthur: He wanted to kept it as an example. A trophy.

Merlin: (whirling on him, incredulous) That’s stupid! Animals don't do that! If you can kill a threat, you kill it! That's basic survival!

Arthur: (patting the air like calming a spooked horse) Relax. That thing's been chained for twenty years. It’s not going anywhere.

Merlin: (crossess his arms, not convinced)

Arthur: (realises) Wait—how do you even know about the dragon?

Merlin: ...

Arthur: (yells) YOU WENT TO SEE THE DRAGON! 😡

Merlin's feathers puff up defensively before he remembers he's in human form. He settles for crossing his arms tighter.

Arthur: And here you're lecturing me about survival when you marched straight to the beast! What were you thinking?!

Merlin: (mutters) He wouldn't stop… talking in my head. And I needed answers.

Arthur: (grips Merlin's shoulders) The dragon can SPEAK?! And what answers could possibly be worth-

Merlin: (yells) I JUST WANTED TO KNOW IF THERE WERE OTHERS LIKE ME!

Arthur: ...

Merlin: (voice cracking, looking away) I wanted to know if I had a family.

Arthur: (his grip softens but doesn't let go, his thumbs rubbing small circles on Merlin's shoulders unconsciously)

Merlin: (swallowing hard) Turns out I'm the last of my kin.

Arthur: (his expression crumbles, his heart breaking) Merlin...

Merlin: (a bitter laugh) And then he started babbling about destiny and Albion and-

Arthur: (suddenly pulls Merlin into a tight embrace)

Merlin: ...

Merlin: (blushing) What are you doing?

Arthur: It's called a hug. I did this when you were in your bird form too. When you were upset.

Merlin: I know. It just… feels different, somehow.

Arthur: (flustered, pulling away) Oh, I didn't mean to-

Merlin: (pulls him close again) No, it's nice. (buries his face in Arthur's neck, smiling)

Arthur: (blush deepens as he awkwardly pats Merlin's back) Better?

Merlin: (pulls away, giving Arthur a sincere smile) Yeah. Thank you.

The dragon tried to call him again a couple of times more, but soon gave up when Merlin kept ignoring him.

However, after finding out about Morgana's magic and then discovering other good sorcerers, Merlin decided to give the dragon another visit. His last visit.

Kilgharrah: (in dry amusement) The little bird returns. To what do I owe this honor?

Merlin: (stands straighter) I wanted to apologize. For calling you and all sorcerers evil.

Kilgharrah: (exhales a wisp of smoke that curls around Merlin like a ghostly embrace) So. You've learned.

Merlin: (nods, firm) Magic isn't evil or good. It's how you wield it.

Kilgharrah: (serious) And will you now embrace your destiny?

Merlin: (nods) Arthur and I talked. He plans to legalize magic when he's king.

Kilgharrah: For Arthur's dawn to rise… Uther's sun must set.

Merlin: (shifting uncomfortably) He'll die naturally someday. He's old-

Kilgharrah: How many more innocents will die by then?

Merlin: (sharp) Arthur protects who he can!

Kilgharrah: (leaning in) Not. Enough.

Merlin: (his jaw tightens, final) Well, it'll have to be.

Silence.

Merlin: (softer) Once Arthur's king… he'll consider freeing you.

Kilgharrah: (snorts, sending sparks flying) "Consider."

Merlin: He needs assurance you won't burn Camelot to ash.

Kilgharrah: (neutral) I see.

Merlin: (turns to leave, then pauses at the cave mouth) That's all I came to say. (leaves)

Super time skip. A VERY future event.

Kilgharrah: (smirks) Old friend… It's been a long time.

Balinor: (hollow) Hello, Kilgharrah.

Kilgharrah: (leans down) I hope you've come for the purpose I imagine.

Balinor's hand flies to his hip. With a metallic shing, he draws a sword. Its blade glows with eerie blue runes that pulse like a heartbeat.

Balinor: (voice breaking) Uther took everything from me. My kin hunted like animals. Years stolen from the woman I love. (clenches sword) My own son… I never even held him.

The runes flare as his tears hit the blade, sizzling like acid.

Balinor: (suddenly his face turning to stone) Now I'll take everything from him.

Kilgharrah: (vicious smile) How glad I am… that we understand each other.

That night a sword falls.... and a chain breaks.

FIRST PART >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

...

BOOM! Sorry for leaving you with another cliffhanger. There are still events with the chicks and Hunith that will happen before we get back to Balinor's sudden act of revenge.

Credits to my best friend Rosangela, who help with ideas for Merlin and Kilgharrah's interactions.

Tagging @dsabian , @theplatanitosqueal , @stressed-but-chill , @gregre369 , @chaosofbelievers , @thelordofabsolutelynothing , @another-tblr-fangirl , @aceauthorcatqueen , @smileytrinity , @tiny-and-witchy , @wacko-weirdo , @cacklingharpy , @schiwalker , @natsu2501malo , @dearfuturelyn , @thedollopheadofcamelot , @yougottobekittenme , @your-local-asylum-escapee , @alo-ween , @orliththedragon , @dumbdemjin , @dangerhumming , @fandomabibliophobia , @beebsnas , @genyxie , @tyanatadraven , @andrealux21 , @justafangirlwithphases , @clairebonnefoy

[larluce]

Complementing this concept!

This would happened after the event of "The Curse of Cornelius Sigan"

Sigan fails to possess Merlin, but before the sorcerer is trapped back in his jewel, he manages to taint Merlin with dark magic. The effect is slow, insidious—first, a sharper edge to Merlin’s instincts. He grows more wary, more distrustful, fiercely protective of Arthur. Then comes recklessness—magic wielded without restraint if it means keeping Arthur safe. And finally, the descent into something darker: killing without hesitation, without remorse, at even the faintest whisper of a threat

Arthur: (staring at the scorched bandit corpses, voice shaking) What the FUCK, Merlin?! 😨

Merlin: (eyes still faintly glowing, eerily calm) They tried to hurt you.

Arthur: (backing away) You-you have magic.

Merlin: (stepping closer, intensity burning beneath his words) I’ll do anything to keep you safe.

Later, in Gaius’ chambers.

Arthur: (pacing, running a hand through his hair) He just-waved his hand, and they were gone. And the way he looked at me after… Gaius, this isn’t him.

Gaius: (grave, folding his hands) I’ve noticed the change. The aggression, the recklessness… I fear it may be the lingering influence of Cornelius Sigan.

Arthur: (whirling around) Merlin’s possessed?

Gaius: No. If he were, Camelot would already be in ruins. But Sigan’s magic… it may have infected him. (Thinking) Corrupting his magic.

Arthur: (gripping the table, knuckles white) Then how do we fix him?

Gaius: (quiet, helpless) …I don’t know.

Arthur does his best to keep Merlin in check, steering him away from conflict while Gaius searches desperately for a cure. But then-

Uther: (seething, backhanding Arthur across the face) Failure after failure! Is this the king you wish to be?!

Before Arthur can react a surge of unseen force hurls Uther across the room, slamming him into the far wall.

Merlin: (steps into the room, eyes burning gold like fire)

Arthur: (instantly blocks Uther, arms out) MERLIN, NO!

Merlin: (cold, commanding) Step. Aside.

Arthur: (pleading, voice breaking) He’s my father.

Uther: (staggers up, face twisted in fury) SORCERER!

Arthur: He’s possessed! It’s not him! (A desperate glance at Merlin, begging him to play along)

Uther: (eyes blazing with fury, shoving Arthur behind him) And you knew?

Merlin: (hand snaps up, eyes burning like molten gold) Don’t. Touch. Him.

An invisible force seizes Uther’s throat, lifting him off the ground. His boots kick helplessly at the air.

Arthur: (lunging forward) NO! Merlin, let him go!

Merlin: (stares at Uther, magic crackling, no remorse, only cold intent)

Arthur: (voice breaking, raw) If you kill him, I’ll never forgive you!

A silence. Then Uther collapses, gasping, as Merlin releases him.

Arthur: (rushes to Uther’s side) Father-

Merlin: (calm, eerily detached) This place isn’t safe for you.

Arthur: (looks up, confused) What?

Merlin: I’ll take you somewhere safe.

A blinding flash of light. When Uther blinks away the spots in his vision, the throne room is empty. His son and the sorcerer are gone.

And that’s when Merlin kidnaps Arthur.

sketchy time

[larluce]

Httyd Merlin Au✨🐉

Haven’t posted in tumblr for a while anyways I’m really obsessed with bbc Merlin and merthur if anyone wants to talk about it with me

[larluce]

Merlin as Arthur's familiar/Arthur's shapeshifter falcon AU

FIRST PART >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

In the guest room. Lancelot, Percival and Elyan eating and being served like they never were in their entire life.

Elyan: (leaning back in his chair) Don’t get me wrong. I appreciate the hospitality. But it’s been days. When do we get our reward? Lancelot: (eyeing the door, voice low) I suspect they're waiting until the last chick is found. Percival: (gnawing on a bone) If it’s even alive. Lancelot: Reward or not, we should be grateful for this treatment. When's the next time lads like us will get to eat like lords? Elyan: (pushing back from the table, glancing out the window) Look! The prince's back.

Lancelot and Percival: (hurry to the window, peering out) Percival: He’s carrying something. Must be the missing chick. Elyan: (grinning) Finally! Lancelot: (relieved) I'm glad it's safe. Morgana: (enters) Lancelot, Elyan and Percival: (turn and bow) My lady. Morgana: My apologies for the delay. Rain has been found, so the prince will decide your reward later today. (Her gaze settles on Elyan) Elyan, I’d like to speak with you privately. It concerns your sister. Elyan: (worried, nods) Sure. (leaves the room with her)

In some part of the main square.

Elyan: What happened to Gwen? Morgana: Nothing. Elyan: (confused) But you said- Morgana: (very serious) The chick you brought back, Brave. His father pecked you all over for a reason, didn't he? Elyan: (sweats a bit) I... don't know. Morgana: I must ask. Did you, by any chance, do something to his chick? Elyan: (too quickly) NO! Of course not! Morgana: (stares for a bit and then sighs) Bring Brave a gift. Fresh meat. New scarfs. Something. When you meet the prince. Elyan: (barking a laugh) You want me to bribe a bird? Morgana: Whether you have done something or not, it's clear you are on his bad side. And if the prince realises that, you won't be getting a reward, you'll be going straight to the dungeons. (turns and say over her shoulder) You may go back. (leaves) Elyan: (snorts, to himself) Right, as if the bird could snitch on me. (turns to go back to the guest room) Knight X and Knight: (round a corner, dragging a battered Gwaine between them) Gwaine: (struggling, mid-argument)-Come on! I didn't know it was the prince's pet when I found her! Elyan: (eyes widening) The chick? (jogs forward) Hey! He's the one who found the last chick, wasn’t he? Why are you arresting him? Knight X: He kidnapped the prince's pet. Gwaine: I didn't! Knight Y: And then nearly gave her an infection. Gwaine: I didn't know she couldn't eat cooked meat! Elyan: (folding his arms) How can you be so sure about that? Knight X: We aren’t. But the prince is. Knight Y: Apparently... (Exchanges a look with Knight Y, smirking) a little bird told him. Knights X and Knight Y: (laugh at their own stupid joke and continue to drag Gwaine to the dungeons) Gwaine: (to Elyan, low urgent) Run while you can. These people are crazy. (gets out of sight) Elyan: ... Elyan: I'm screwed.

Time skip. Just after meeting Hunith. Arthur walking out of Gaius' chambers with Merlin in his bird form on his shoulder and the nest with his chicks in his arms.

Merlin: (his chest aiching) Did she... Is her son...? Arthur: (as he walks to his chambers, a sad expression on his face) It seems so. Merlin: (wings trembling slightly) I've never seen pain like that. She looked… broken. Like part of her soul had been torn away. Arthur: (grip tightens imperceptibly on the nest as he glances at his chicks, whispers, more to himself than Merlin) That could've been us. Morgana and Gwen: (encounter them half way) Morgana: (rushing forward) Oh, thank the gods! Rain! (reaches for her) Rain: (fluttering excitedly) Auntie Morgana! 😃 Morgana: (gathers Rain to her chest, eyes shining with unshed tears, relief washing over her features) I was so worried about you. Arthur: (cold) Put her back. Morgana: (joy drains from her face) Arthur… Arthur: I'll decide when I can trust you with them again, Lady Morgana. Morgana: (The formal title lands like a slap) Okay. (carefully returns Rain to the nest) Arthur: (strides past without another glance) Gwen: (gently touches Morgana's shoulder as they watch Arthur retreat) He's hurting right now. This anger won't last. Morgana: (voice breaking) What if he never lets me near them again? Gwen: He will, my lady. (thinking) I'll make sure of it.

Time skip. In Arthur's chambers. Arthur and Merlin (in his human form) taking turns feeding his chicks.

Merlin: (gently stroking Guardian's feathers) Don't you think you were too hard on her? Arthur: (barely audible, not looking up) Not now, Merlin. Merlin: (persistent) Arthur- Arthur: The chicks are here. I don't want to fight. Merlin: (sighs) Gwen: (bursts in) Arthur: (scolds) Guinevere! You can't just enter like that! Merlin could've been- Gwen: IT WAS ME WHO LEFT THE DOOR OPEN! Merlin: ... Arthur: ... Arthur: What? Gwen: (scared to guts, but stays firm) It was me who left the door open. Not Morgana. She took the blame for me so I wouldn't get in trouble with the king or with you. It's... It's my fault the chicks got lost. Chicks: (stir nervously in their nest) Merlin: (quickly conjures a shimmering bubble around the nest, so the chicks won't hear the conversation) Chicks: Wooow! 😲😲😲😲😲 Guardian: Mama, what's that? Rain: Shiny thing!🤩 Merlin: (talks inside the bubble) Shhh. Grown-up talk. Arthur: (slowly stands up an walks to Gwen until he is infront of her, icy calm) I see... Thank you for your honesty, Guinevere. Gwen: (smiles a bit, with tentative hope) Arthur: You are fired. Gwen: (staggers back as if struck) Arthur: (turning away) You have one day to pack your things. You're dismissed. Gwen: (with contained tears in her eyes) Right away, Sire. (about to leave) Merlin: (suddenly appears between them, his arm barring Gwen's path) Gwen, stay right there. You're not fired. Arthur: (whirls around, eyes blazing) I just fired her. Merlin: (standing his ground) And I'm saying she's not. Arthur: (voice rising) We almost lost our chicks because of her negligence! The chicks: (press against the magical bubble, especially Blizzard) Merlin: I'm not excusing her mistake. But tell me, Arthur. (steps closer) Have we been perfect guardians? Arthur: What? Merlin: We lost Blizzard at the feast and he nearly drowned in punch. When they were still eggs, you dozed off and almost crushed them. (softer) Three weeks we've had them, and we're still learning. Morgana and Gwen? Only three days. Don't you think you are being a bit unfair?

Silence. Arthur's jaw works, but says nothing, his gaze flickering to the nest where the chicks are now pecking curiously at the magic barrier.

Arthur: (stubborn) I trust US not to repeat mistakes. Not HER. Merlin: Then sack her. (pauses) But we both know you'll regret how you treated Morgana. You'll go to apologize eventually and when you do (eyes dart meaningfully to Gwen) how do you think that will go if her best friend is sacked?

Arthur's shoulders tense. A long silence stretches. Gwen stands frozen, a single tear tracing down her cheek.

Arthur: (finally, through gritted teeth) …One month's probation. No unsupervised access to the chicks. One more single mistake and you are out in the streets. Gwen: (sags with relief, nodding fervently) Of course. Thank you, Sire. (more meaninfuly, to Merlin) Thank you. Arthur: You are dismissed. Gwen: (bows and leaves)

Merlin's magic bubble pops with a soft chime as the chicks tumble out. Arthur and Merlin sink back onto the bed, the anger and residual tension still there, but forced to keep it together.

Blizzard: (flaps wildly) FREEDOM! 😄 (proceeds to launch himself from pillow to pillow, wings still flapping) Brave: (leaping after him) I broke it! 😄 (puffs out his chest triumphantly) Blizzard: (skidding to a halt) No, I did! 😠 (pecks at Brave's wing for emphasis) Wary: (sinking into the blankets) Aww ☹️ I liked the invisible walls. They felt safe. Rain: (tilting head, watching fading magic sparkles) The shiny thing is gone? 🥺 (her tiny wings droop) Guardian: (From the nest, rises up with all the dignity of a miniature sentry) Back to the nest! (flutters wings authoritatively) We are still grounded!

Merlin exhales a laugh despite himself, watching as Guardian herds the others back toward the nest with surprising efficiency, pushing Blizzard with his beak, nudging Wary gently with his wings. Arthur's rigid posture finally cracks as Rain attempts an ambitious leap toward the nest, only to faceplant directly into Arthur's lap with a soft "chip".

Arthur: (gently stroking Rain's feathers) You're all going to be the death of me.

Across the bed, Guardian finally corrals Blizzard back into the nest with an exasperated chirp. Rain chirps happily, snuggling into Arthur's touch and Merlin watches Arthur's face soften. Merlin's anger melts too as his chicks' chirps fill the quiet chamber.

Brave: Why does Rain get to be in Papa's lap? 😠 Blizzard: She's Papa's favourite, remember? 🙄 Rain: (perking up instantly) Am I? 😃 (beams with delight) Brave: Idiot! She wasn't supposed to know! Now she'll be all smug about it for weeks. 😩 Wary: I'm second favourite. I want to be in Papa's lap too. 🥺 Arthur: (soft chuckle) I don't have any favourites, babies. Who told you that? Chicks: Mama!😊😊😊😊😊 Arthur: (glares at Merlin) Merlin: (innocent shrug) Oh come on, you do have a weak spot for females. (to his chicks) But listen, my chicks, having a favorite doesn't mean less love for others. You also have a favourite parent, and that doesn't mean you love one more than the other. Guardian: (immediately) That's not true! Rain: (nodding vigorously) Yeah, we favourite you the same. Merlin: (lifts an eyebrow) Really? Then...(pauses and suddenly raises his voice) ONE HOUR OF LAP TIME FOR EVERYONE! Chicks: YEAH! 😄😄😄😄😄 Wary and Blizzard: (jump from the nest and get on Arthur's lap) Brave and Guardian: (jump from the nest and get on Merlin's lap) Arthur: (open his eyes wide in surprise, then his heart melts as the chicks snuggle into him and finally shows utter smugness as he meets Merlin's eyes) Merlin: (as he strokes Guardian and Brave) I know what you're thinking. This isn't a competition. Arthur: (innocently) I didn't say anything. (but his smirk grows as Rain climbs onto his shoulder, claiming the highest perch as Papa's favourite).

Meanwhile in the dungeons.

Gwaine: (leaning against the bars) Pssst! Hey! You there! (waves energetically) Guard: (sighs dramatically before sauntering) What now, prisoner? Gwaine: (grinning) When might this royal hospitality conclude? Guard: (raising eyebrow) Depends. What'd you do? Gwaine: (spreading hands innocently) Absolutely nothing! Wrong place, wrong time situation really- Guard: They all say that. Gwaine: But I'm the rare honest one! Ask anyone! (pauses) Well, anyone who's not currently cross with me. Guard: (folds his arms, unimpressed) Alright then, 'innocent man'. What are your charges? Gwaine: (waving dismissively) Oh, just some nonsense about kidnapping the prince's bird- Guard: (suddenly alert) Wait. One of the prince's pets? Gwaine: Yes! A little chick! So surely the sentence can't be more than… (thinking) … a day in the stocks? A light flogging? Guard: Oh you'll be out in no time. Gwaine: (exhaling in relief) Thank the gods- Guard: At your execution. Probably by week's end. Gwaine: ... Gwaine: Come again? Guard: (mimicking bird wings with hands) Those little falcons. The prince would burn Camelot itself if anything happened to them. You'll get beheaded if you're lucky. I've heard that's the painless one. Gwaine: (gaping) But I saved the fluffball! She woul've died if I hadn't found her. Guard: The female? Rain? Oh, forget about a painless death, you're doomed. Gwaine: Please, help me! You can’t honestly believe this punishment fits the crime! Guard: (shrugs) Doesn't matter what I believe. Just what the prince says. Gwaine: Then how do I convince the prince I didn’t kidnap his precious chick?! Guard: (hesitates, his expression conflicted) Gwaine: Come on, friend. First round's on me when I’m out. The good ale. Guard: (sighs) You can't convince the prince. Trying to talk your way out of this will only make it worse. Gwaine: (shoulders slump in defeat, dragging a hand down his face) Guard: But! Just because I feel sorry for you, I'm going to tell you a way. If not, it'll weigh on my conscience that I could have helped someone condemned to death, but I didn't. Even if the chance of it working is actually very slim- Gwaine: (urgent) Just spit it out! Guardia: You have to persuade the bird. Gwaine: ... Gwaine: What?Guard: Rain. The prince didn't just decide you kidnapped her. He KNOWS she felt that way. He's always been good at interpreting his birds' feelings. I don't how he does it, honestly. The day Merlin got lost- Gwaine: (waving hands) Yes, yes, fascinating, skip to the "how" I persuade her. Guard: (lifts eyebrows in disbelief) If you somehow get a moment alone with her? I hear she's fond of things that glitter. Jewels, polished metal, things like that. Gwaine: (remembers Rain's attachment to his bracelet) Of course! Thank you. Guard: (as he walks away) Yeah, yeah. I still think you're a dead man. (leaves)

As the guard's footsteps fade, Gwaine immediately drops to his knees. With practiced fingers, he pries the ornate silver buckles from his fine leather boots. The last remnants of his noble upbringing

Gwaine: (muttering to himself) There goes my last decent pair. (holds up the buckles)

Meanwhile, in Gaius' Tower. Hunith is sitting on a bed, cover in a blanket, while Gaius gives her an infusion.

Hunith: Don't believe me if you want. But I know for certain Merlin is in Camelot. That's the only clue we have. Gaius: We? Who's we? Hunith: Me... and Balinor. Gaius: (opens his eye wide) You encountered Balinor? Hunith: (nods)

She doesn't say she tried to drown herself in a river, when the pain of losing her only child became too much to bear. How the strong hands of the man she thought she'd never see again hauled her gasping onto the bank. How Balinor stilled when he recognized the woman he'd once loved and never stopped loving. Nor does she describe how Balinor's face had crumpled when she screamed the truth between sobs: that the son he never knew existed was now lost forever. His anguished roar had sent birds exploding from the trees.

No, Gaius doesn't need to know that.

Hunith: (flat smile) The gods have a cruel sense of humor. Seventeen years waiting… only to reunite in our worst moment. Gaius: (devasted) So he knows. Hunith: (knuckles whiten around the cup) He tried… (swallows hard) …to sense him with his dragonlord magic. Nothing. The druids could only scry as far as Camelot's borders. (whispering) Alive or… (can't say the word) he's here. Gaius: (softly) And that's why you came. Hunith: (a single tear drops) You've never owed me anything, Gaius. All your kindness… (voice breaks) was given freely. I wouldn't ask now, but- Gaius: (firm, gentle) No asking needed. (pats her hand) I'll petition the king at first light. Hunith: (about to cry again, but composes herself) Thank you.

Gaius smooths the blanket over her lap, then leans down to press a kiss to her forehead, the same way he once did when she was just a girl, sick with fever in their old home. He moves toward the door, but hesitates, his hand lingering on the frame.

Gaius: (turns) One last thing. Balinor… (eyes dart to the window) Did he come? Hunith: (exhales shakily, shaking her head, a bitter smile on her face) We fought. He doesn't trust the royal family for obvious reasons. But I had to try. Gaius: (relieved) Then he's safer outside Camelot's borders. (Pauses, softening) Uther has long believed him dead. When you see him again… tell him he doesn't have to hide anymore.

Hunith’s fingers tighten around the blanket. She doesn’t mention the way Balinor’s voice had turned to embers when he spoke of Uther. How his hands had trembled not with fear, but with a rage that burned as hot as fire. Dragonfire. She doesn’t speak of his vow, hissed between clenched teeth: "If the king had any hand in this, I will see him burn!"

Hunith: (low, almost to herself) I don't think he intends to hide anymore. Gaius: (stiffens) What? Hunith: (shakes her head, forcing a frail smile) Nothing. I'll tell him.

FIRST PART >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

...

Tagging @dsabian , @theplatanitosqueal , @stressed-but-chill , @gregre369 , @chaosofbelievers , @thelordofabsolutelynothing , @another-tblr-fangirl , @aceauthorcatqueen , @smileytrinity , @tiny-and-witchy , @wacko-weirdo , @cacklingharpy , @schiwalker , @natsu2501malo , @dearfuturelyn , @thedollopheadofcamelot , @yougottobekittenme , @your-local-asylum-escapee , @theroundbartable , @alo-ween , @orliththedragon , @dumbdemjin , @dangerhumming , @fandomabibliophobia , @beebsnas , @genyxie , @tyanatadraven , @andrealux21 , @justafangirlwithphases , @clairebonnefoy

[larluce]

Merlin arrives with a baby in Camelot AU

(co-writing with @roxineedstosleep)

BASED ON THIS PROMPT >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

Chapter 3: Valiant (Part 2)

Next Day. In Gaius’ Tower.

Dawn has yet to arrive, and Merlin is awakened by the sound of movement in Gaius’ chambers and the baby’s soft cries. He tries with all his might to get up, but his body still aches from everything he had to do the day before. On his second attempt—just before face-planting onto the floor—Gaius opens the bedroom door, holding the baby in his arms.

Merlin: (Barely managing to sit up on the edge of the bed, with dark circles bigger than should fit on his face) Ugh, my ribs… 😖🫩

Gaius: (Approaches Merlin, carrying the squirming baby, who wiggles like a worm upon hearing Merlin’s voice) At the very least, your conscience should hurt more. 😠

Merlin: Oh, baby! (Takes her quickly, suddenly looking a bit more awake) 🤗 Look how cute you are without those colics… (processes) Why my conscience? 😧

Gaius: Are you a fool, boy?! I’m surprised you’re even here, ALIVE, in the first place! 😡

Baby: Bu-hu? (wriggling uncomfortably, as if sensing the tension) 🥺

Merlin: I don’t get it… Is it because the baby stayed with George? He has a magical voice! He even got her to sleep despite her colic! (rocks the baby, who’s on the verge of tears) Oh, baby, don’t cry. Uncle Gaius is just-

Gaius: (raising his voice) Forget George! Do you really think I can protect you forever? After what you just did, I’m surprised they didn’t drag you out of here by your feet! 😡

Baby: Buuuu (about to cry) 🥺😖

Merlin: Gaius, you’re scaring me-US now. I really don’t understand what you’re getting at. What did I do yesterday? (sways the baby as gently as possible)

Gaius: (stunned) What did you do yesterday? You don’t remember? 🤨

Merlin: No, I don’t recall anything worth accusing me of right now. I only remember… following the prince around? I know that much because-

Gaius: Merlin, by the Triple Goddess, you publicly insulted the prince last night!

Merlin: (frowning, confused) Impossible. Last night, I came straight here after the royal idiot finally let me go. That insult you’re talking about happened days ago. And if I remember right, I spent a night in the dungeons and nearly a full day in the stocks for it.

Gaius: Oh, for- (realizes something) It’s happening again. Merlin, I need you to be honest with me, or I can’t help you out of this. Do you have any… strange memories of insulting the prince?

Merlin: (rocking the baby, who seems to have calmed down now that Gaius stopped yelling and is playing with Merlin’s neckerchief) Well… I did dream I insulted him. (smirks) And it was very satisfying, now that I think about it.

Gaius: It wasn’t a dream, Merlin. (sits beside him, grave) Last night, after you’d fallen asleep, Gwen came running here in a panic, begging me to hide you. She—along with several nobles and servants—saw you publicly insult Prince Arthur during last night’s celebrations.

Merlin: (pale, frozen in fear, clinging tighter to the baby) No...😨 No, no, that can't be!

Gaius: Gwen seemed worried that at any moment the prince would snap out of his shock and demand your punishment right then and there. I stayed awake all night waiting for the guards to come barging in looking for you.

Merlin: (shaking his head firmly, in complete denial) But it's impossible. I didn't-

Gaius: It must be your lack of sleep, boy. Lady Morgana had a similar episode about a year ago. The poor girl was so exhausted after going days without rest that she practically slapped a lady-in-waiting in front of everyone.

Merlin: Morgana did that? 😨

Gaius: Indeed she did. That's why Gwen has been looking after her so carefully ever since. But as I was saying, she collapsed from exhaustion shortly after. When she regained consciousness, she remembered nothing of what happened during those sleepless days.

Merlin: Can that really happen?

Gaius: From what you're telling me, I've just confirmed my theory. But you're not some sleep-deprived noble girl under the king's protection, Merlin. You're my apprentice, the prince's servant... the very prince you insulted rather scathingly, if Gwen's account is accurate.

Merlin: (swallows hard) He's going to kill me.

Gaius: Merlin, if he wanted you dead, Arthur would've alrea-

Merlin: (suddenly standing up with the baby in arms, frantically searching for his travel bag) No, you don't understand, Gaius! That man literally used his servant as target, throwing daggers at him, just because he didn't move fast enough during training! George told me all his servants quit within days because he's cruel. He even said Arthur's been trained to kill since childhood! If something happens to me, the baby-

Baby: (feeling Merlin's distress) Ba?🥺

Gaius: (trying to stop Merlin's chaotic packing as objects begin floating) Merlin, stop-

Merlin: (stops abruptly) He didn't kill me last time because YOU pulled strings to get me out of the dungeon before he could! (hands the baby to Gaius, and resumes frantically gathering his belongings) And I only stopped him from bullying that poor servant assigned to him that day... No, I have to leave-we have to leave. (gestures to the baby) I'm not sticking around to find out what he considers "appropriate punishment" for what I did.

Baby: (wiggles trying to reach Merlin again, extending her little hands) Buuu! 🥺

Merlin continues packing, but now several objects begin floating more noticeably, clumsily assembling themselves. It's not just the baby's magic. His own is also doing it unconsciously in response to his rising panic.

Gaius: Merlin! Calm down! If the castle guards haven't come for you all night, it's probably because the prince didn't deem execution necessary. It's been hours, and Arthur-

Their argument is cut short by a soft knock at the main door. Merlin snatches the baby from Gaius's arms and retreats deeper into his room, positioning himself in the hallway's blind spot. All the floating objects suddenly crash to the ground.

Gaius: (opens the door) The sun hasn't even risen. Is there a medical emergency? Is it about Lady Morgana?

Guard: Apologies for the hour, Gaius, but Prince Arthur wishes to see his servant in the stables before the tournament events begin... He says it's urgent.

Baby: (babbles, patting Merlin to get his attention)

Merlin: (covers the baby's mouth)

Gaius: My apprentice went to gather the herbs I requested, but he should be back soon. I'll send him to the prince immediately upon his return.

Guard: (who knows perfectly well Merlin is there, since no one saw him leave, but says nothing) As soon as possible, please, Gaius. (leaves)

Merlin: (emerges from hiding) That's it, we're leaving. We never should have stayed here in the first place. (straps on the baby carrier) Did you manage to locate the Druid camp?

Gaius: (shakes his head) My contact hasn't responded yet, and I won't let you wander blindly. (stops Merlin as he's about to place the baby in the carrier) I promised your mother I'd protect you both. Do you really think I wouldn't be helping you pack if there were even the slightest chance the prince would kill you?

Merlin: (hesitant, looks between Gaius and the door) …

Gaius: Trust me. I know Arthur. If he truly meant to kill you or deliver severe punishment, he wouldn't be summoning you to the stables. You'd already be in the dungeons. Most likely, he just wants to give you a warning. In which case, all you need to do is apologize with "Yes, sire. It won't happen again, sire.”

Merlin: (repeats) Yes, sire. It won't happen again, sire.

Gaius: Exactly like that. (takes the baby) Now take that off (points to the baby carrier) and go. You don't want to keep him waiting - you've angered him enough already.

Time skip. In The royal stables.

The royal stables are bathed in dusty golden light, the air thick with the scent of hay and leather. The moment Merlin arrives, the prince unexpectedly yanks him by the arm. Being Merlin, he stumbles over his own feet and crashes into a wooden feed trough. Arthur waits for him to pick himself up with chilling calm.

Merlin: (after standing up and brushing himself off) Uhm... You summoned me, sire? 😅

Arthur: (says nothing, just stares with a stony expression)

Merlin: (swallows hard, thinking) How did it go? Ah yes. "Yes, sire. It won't happen again, sire." Just gotta say that when he gives me the warning. "Yes, sire. It won't happen again, sire."

Stable boy: (leading a horse by its reins) Your horse, sire. (hands Arthur a riding crop)

Arthur: (takes the reins in one hand and the crop in the other with icy calm) Thank you.

Merlin: (thinking) Oh, so he does know that word. 🙄

Stable boy: (bows and exits)

Arthur: Hold him.

Merlin: (takes the horse's reins)

Arthur: (silently feeds the horse some treats)

Merlin: (thinking, confused) Did he decide to let it go?

Arthur: (stroking the horse) Do you know what it takes to break a horse, Merlin?

Merlin: (even more confused by the odd question but answers) No. I mean, I don't work with horses. In Ealdor we only had donkeys, and those were just for pulling plows or carts. Though my mother did raise pigs and chickens.

Arthur: (playing with the whip in his hand) It takes patience, firmness, and above all... (turns sharply to Merlin) discipline. 😑

Merlin: (thinking) Why is he looking at me like that?

Arthur: An untamed stallion is useless. But an obedient, well-trained one... is invaluable.

Merlin: (thinking) He really seems to love horses... (aloud, petting the horse) Well yes, horses are expensive. Or so I've heard. Not that I could ever afford one, sire.

Arthur: (gestures for Merlin to help him mount)

Merlin: (hurries to assist)

Arthur: (now mounted) Exactly. A prince doesn't settle for mediocre beasts... (emphasis dripping with contempt) nor useless servants. (His face reveals barely contained fury)

Merlin: ...

Merlin: Are we still talking about the horse, my lord?

Arthur: (forcing a smile) Of course. I was explaining how to properly break a stallion. (pats the horse)

Merlin: (finally catching Arthur's implication) Oh... I see... And what if the horse doesn't want to be broken, sire?

Arthur: (laughs mockingly) Merlin—(cuts off abruptly, suddenly dead serious, his gaze turning almost threatening, voice low) All horses learn to bow their heads.

A silence falls—electric and dangerous. The air between them grows thick, charged with an unspoken magnetism, and for a moment, their power struggle teeters on an ambiguous edge.

Merlin thinks he understands what Arthur is implying, and he doesn’t like it one bit. A scolding? Even punishment? He’d accept that. He knows he deserves that and worse for how he acted yesterday. But that doesn’t mean he’ll just allow himself to be humiliated.

Merlin: (locks eyes with Arthur defiantly, brow furrowed) Maybe some horses weren't born to be ridden, sire. Just like some men weren't born to serve.

Arthur: (cracks the whip through the air near Merlin)

Merlin: (jumps in alarm) What the hell is wrong with you?!

Arthur: (stern) All horses were born to be ridden. Just as all men were born to serve.

Merlin: Right, says the prince. 🙄

Arthur: Royalty serves their people. Nobles serve their king. Peasants serve their lord. No man is exempt from service. Not the lowliest peasant, nor the wealthiest noble. Everyone has a role to fulfill. And it falls to each man to strive to perform it to the best of his ability.

Merlin: I thought we were talking about horses, sire.

Arthur: (raises the whip, grazing the leather tip along Merlin's jawline) Every horse can be broken... you just need to find the right rider.

Merlin: (shivers but maintains defiant eye contact, mocking) And you think you're that rider, sire?

Arthur: (doesn't answer, runs the whip slowly down Merlin's neck)

Merlin: (thinking) What's gotten into this madman?

Arthur: (voice deep and commanding) I only accept the best. And you (withdraws the whip from Merlin's erratic pulse) will be the best. I'll make sure of it. (gathers the reins and rides out of the stables)

Merlin: ...

Merlin: Wait a damn minute! 😠 (runs out of the stables after Arthur)

In the horse field.

Arthur: (riding at moderate speed, sighs while trying to calm his still simmering anger, thinking) I should have had him whipped for such insolence. Or thrown him in the dungeons. But I've never ordered anyone whipped. That's unnecessarily cruel, no matter how much he deserves it. And the dungeons would be like giving him a vacation. No. He'll keep serving as my manservant... and he'll learn to respect me.

Merlin: (catches up and suddenly steps in front of the horse)

Arthur: (pulls the horse to an abrupt stop, thinking) What in hell is he doing?

Merlin: What the fuck was that?! 😠

Arthur: (scolding) Language. And I've no idea what you're referring to.

Merlin: (wildly gesturing, visibly offended) That! What just happened back there! You compared me to a damn horse. That's not fair!

Arthur: (irritated but still restrained) Breaking a horse is never fair, Merlin. It's necessary.

Merlin: (marches alongside the horse to face Arthur directly) I'm not a fucking horse! 😠 (raises his arm to point accusingly) I don't compare you to a toad even though you look like one and act like one!

Arthur: (enraged by the insult, impulsively lashes Merlin's raised arm with the whip)

Merlin: (yells more from shock than pain) Ow! (stares at his arm in disbelief) You whipped me... (enraged) You whipped me like a damn animal! 😡 You're a bloody tyrant!

Arthur: (jaw clenched) Something I forgot to mention, Merlin. When breaking a stubborn beast... (lands another sharp whip crack on Merlin's shoulder) The best solution is lashing.

Merlin: Ow! Hey! 😡

Arthur: I suggest you remember that from now on. (spurs his horse and rides off, leaving a seething Merlin behind)

Time skip. In Gaius' Tower

Gaius gently settles the finally-sleeping baby into her cradle when the door slams open, revealing Merlin radiating pure fury.

Merlin: I'M NOT A HORSE! 😤

Gaius: (bewildered) Yes... I'm aware.

Merlin: Then why did he treat me like one?!

Gaius: Arthur?

Merlin: (nods vigorously)

Gaius: What exactly did he do? Ride on your back and make you trot around the castle?

Merlin: (too embarrassed to admit he was whipped) He just... treated me like an animal.

Gaius: (relieved) Well, you kept your head. It's not so bad. Be grateful he didn't order you whipped for your insolence.

Merlin: (flares up again, slams hand on table) He DID! 😡

Baby: (wakes up crying) 🥺😭

Merlin: (rushes to her) Oh no, baby, I'm sorry. (scoops her up, rocking her gently) Shhh, don't cry. Forgive me, sweetheart, it's just that toad-faced prince is such a tyrant.

Gaius: (concerned) He actually whipped you?

Merlin: (gestures with his chin to his arm where two whip marks have torn through his sleeve) There.

Gaius: (examining Merlin while muttering under his breath) Mostly caught the fabric more than skin... (aloud) That's it?

Merlin: (offended) “That's it”? He struck me like a damn animal! Even the donkeys in my village get better treatment! (raises injured arm while still holding the baby with the other) Look! He drew blood!

Gaius: There's no blood, just some redness 😒. (realizes) Merlin, you did apologize for yesterday's behavior, didn't you?

Merlin: ...

Gaius: "Yes, sire. It won't happen again, sire." You said it, right?

Merlin: ...I forgot.

Gaius: Merlin! 😠

Merlin: Are you even listening to me?! He whipped me and you're taking his side! I'm your apprentice, Gaius! You're supposed to be on my side, but instead you're defending him. Not even my mother's ever hit me like that! He whipped me viciously! And before that he gave me this whole speech comparing me to a horse!

Baby: (having stopped crying, now chewing on Merlin's neckerchief) Nom nom nom 😛

Gaius: (long-suffering sigh) Merlin, must you constantly find trouble? Thank the gods you only got one lash-

Merlin: It was two. 😑

Gaius: Given everything you've done, you should be grateful you're not in the dungeons and only paid with two lashes. You must have truly angered him. Arthur's never ordered a servant whipped before.

Merlin: He didn't order it, he did it himself.

Gaius: (utterly shocked) Arthur?

Merlin: Yes! Why is that so hard to believe? 😠 He'd already made his power trip perfectly clear!

Gaius: (still incredulous) Merlin... Arthur personally whipped you? He took the whip in his own hands?

Merlin: I'm telling you yes! He hit me with his riding crop. Like a damn horse, I repeat! Why won't you believe me?

Gaius: (stunned) It's not that I don't believe you... it's just hard to process. This is highly unusual.

Merlin: (extremely sarcastic) Oh, of course! Because nobility beating servants is so unusual. Unheard of! Pure fairy tales. Typical Camelot behavior. Never happened in Ealdor.

Gaius: No, that's not what I meant. It's just strange that the prince would whip you himself when he could have easily ordered someone else to do it.

Merlin: Oh naturally! Why would the prince dirty his hands whipping his own servant? 🙄

Gaius: Exactly.

Merlin: (absolutely livid) Gaius! Are you actually taking his side?

Gaius: No, Merlin, understand this. For nobles, especially royalty, personally administering punishment to a servant is considered beneath their station. Decent nobles find it humiliating, and even for abusive nobles it's still seen as vulgar behavior.

Merlin: It's not the first time he's punished me. In fact, when I first arrived, he was punishing another servant.

Gaius: But never physical punishment.

Merlin: Of course it was! He used me as a training dummy. My back still hurts from that.

Gaius: That's different. Merlin, I don't expect you to understand. You grew up outside court and don't know noble protocols. So let me explain this: If Arthur were some tyrannical prince with a terrible reputation, I wouldn't be shocked he whipped a servant directly. But Arthur cares deeply about his standing. You might believe nobles can do whatever they want, even abuse servants, and yes, some do. But trust me, Merlin, nobles, especially royalty, live bound by more rules than anyone.

Merlin: Yeah, you've made it crystal clear whose side you're on. 😒 (resigned sigh as he places the baby in her crib, giving her teddy bear to play with) Can you check my back please? It hurts.

Gaius: He whipped your back too? 😨

Merlin: No, I told you yesterday he used me as a training dummy. My ribs hurt. 😖

Gaius: (removes Merlin's shirt and sees the bruises) Good heavens, he really did use you as a practice dummy! (frowns) And you've been complaining all this time about that little scratch on your arm, not your back that's been hurting since yesterday?

Merlin: It's not like I've had time to complain!

Gaius: (pulling out herbal creams and poultices from a nearby drawer) And no wonder your ribs are sore. (applies medicine to the bruised areas with firm pats).

Merlin: (squirming uncomfortably) Ow, ow, ow! Easy, Gaius! It hurts, it hurts, it hurts! 😫

Gaius: It would hurt less if you stopped wriggling like that, Merlin 😠. I need to apply this ointment properly, and you thrashing about like a headless lizard isn't helping one bit.

Merlin: (continues squirming) Huuuurts! 😫

Gaius: For someone who's being punished for his actions and keeps getting into trouble, you certainly still have plenty of energy. (applies herbal patches and bandages to the bruises)

Merlin: It's not energy, it's rage! 😡 I'm not a horse! Who does that toad think he-Ow!-who does he think he is, comparing me to one? And what the hell was that cheap metaphor supposed to mean anyway? (mocking Arthur's voice) "All horses are born to be broken, Merlin. You just need the right rider, Merlin. I'll make you my perfect steed and ride you, Merlin."

Gaius: ...What? 😦

Gwen: (just entered, drops her basket in shock) Oh gods!

Merlin & Gaius: (spin around, startled by the sudden interruption)

Gwen: I'm sorry! I just came to get more of Lady Morgana's sleeping draught. And I wanted to check on you—I heard from the kitchen staff that the guards came for you before dawn. (approaches worriedly) But what happened to you?

Merlin: (somewhat embarrassed) Uh... I fell? 😅

Gwen: You fell? Merlin, you look like a ragdoll! 😱 Tell me the truth, did the guards do this to you?

Merlin: No, I mean... This isn't (pauses, thinking) Wait, why am I covering for him? Let everyone know how abusive he is! Didn't Gaius say he cares about his reputation? (declares) It was Arthur.

Gwen: (eyes widening at the excessive number of patches on Merlin's back) The prince did this? Because of last night?

Merlin: (nods, pointing to the arm patches) Yes, Gaius is treating me. (exaggerated whine, clutching his arm) Oww, it hurts so much.

Gwen: I can't believe it! The prince has never done this before. Did they beat you? Did Arthur really order one of his knights to thrash you?

Merlin: (still referring only to his arm) No, Arthur did it himself.

Gwen: (gasps in horror) 😨

Merlin: With a riding crop.

Gwen: By the gods! Even after yesterday, he shouldn't have whipped you like this. It must hurt terribly.

Merlin: (to Gaius) See, Gaius? This is what being on my side sounds like-Ow! (to Gwen) But yes, the prince made his point very clear. It won't happen again.

Gwen: (on the verge of tears)

Merlin: (panicking) No, Gwen! I was exaggerating. It was just a couple scratches and it doesn't even hurt that much. I'm fine, Gwen, really (lifts his arm and removes one patch) See?

Gwen: (fighting back tears to stay strong while discreetly eyeing all the medical patches) If you say so. It looks like you've had quite the ordeal.

Merlin: That wasn't even the worst part. You know the prince compared me to a horse?-Ow, Gaius! 😖 (flinches as Gaius treats a bruise near his shoulder whip mark)

Gaius: Don't look at me like that - you only just stopped squirming so I can finally finish patching you up.

Baby: (stands up while holding the crib, worried) Ba buuu. Ba buuuu 🥺 (reaches little hands toward Merlin)

Gwen: Awww 🥰 This must be the mysterious little patient. (approaches crib) What's your name, sweetheart?

Merlin: (answers without thinking) She doesn't have one.

Gwen: (confused) What?

Gaius: (quickly lies) Her mother hasn't had time to choose a name yet.

Gwen: Oh... I see. (thinking) Why wouldn't he name his own daughter? (aloud) Can I hold her? 😃

Merlin: (hesitant because of the baby's magic) I don't know if—

Gwen: (already scooping up baby) Aww what an absolutely precious little thing! 🤗

Baby: (giggles adorably) 😄

Merlin: (softens at the sight but panics when the baby's teddy bear starts floating behind Gwen) Gwen-

Gaius: (snatches the floating bear and takes the baby) Gwen, if you'd be so kind, could you fetch us some thread? (nods toward Merlin's torn shirt) I'm afraid we'll need to mend his sleeve.

Gwen: Oh, of course! I can do it if you'd like. Lady Morgana will be resting in her chambers all day anyway. Mending a shirt won't take long. (takes the shirt and places it in her basket) Well, I should go—Lady Morgana will be wondering about her sleeping draught.

Merlin: Thanks Gwen! You're the best! 😊

Gaius: Lady Morgana's medicine is by the hearth, and take the- (cut off by the door gently slamming) And she's gone.

Merlin: (mournfully) That was my only clean shirt 😔. The baby stained the others and they're still drying.

Gaius: I think I have a clean shirt that might fit you, but let me finish with your back first. (places the baby back in the crib and resumes treating Merlin's back)

Merlin: I thought you were done! Ow! Just leave it like this. I still have to attend to the toad-faced prince for the tournament anyway.

Gaius: Actually, you've got a few more hours.

Merlin: Ow! Are you mad? The sun's already up. If I'm late this time, he really will kill me.

Gaius: (casually) Yes, well... Sir Ewan died in yesterday's tournament.

Merlin: (shrieks) What?! 😱

Gaius: And Sir Owain.

Merlin: People actually die in these things?! 😨

Gaius: In a competition with sharp weapons and brute force? Yes, Merlin - though you might find it impossible to believe, fatalities do occasionally occur. Even with modified weapons that aren't as lethal as battlefield gear. (finishes patching Merlin up) Nothing unusual... except these knights died under highly suspicious circumstances. So I must file a report, and they'll likely pause the tournament for investigation. Eat in peace - I'll send you with a message to the prince in about an hour. You could even nap if you like.

Merlin: (smiles) Thanks, Gaius.

Baby: (reaching little hands toward Merlin again) Ba ba 🥺. Ba buuuuu

Merlin: (his tired expression softens) Oh, I can sacrifice an hour of sleep. (goes to the crib) Come here. (picks her up) Did you miss me? 🤗

Baby: (makes happy sounds and snuggles against Merlin) 😊

Merlin: Yeah, me too, sweetheart. (hugs her tighter) Me too.

Time skip. The laundry room.

Gwen holds Merlin's torn shirt, freshly washed and ready for mending. Around her bustles a chaos of servants from various departments - some assisting the laundresses, others preparing for their regular duties.

Gwen: (deep sigh while selecting thread) I'll need to reinforce this stitching. (examining the shirt closer) Poor Merlin, this tear is quite nasty. Maybe a patch would work? But he's a boy. If this were one of my aprons I could... Oh no! (a spool of thread escapes, rolling across the floor)

Laundress Ro: (with poor eyesight, gropes for the spool at her feet and squints at it) A spool? What's a spool doing here?

Gwen: (rushing over) That's mine! Thank you for catching it. I need it for mending.

Laundress Ro: (recognizing the voice) Gwen! You ought to be careful with those threads - they'll get lost in this crowd (waves generally at the swarm of servants surrounding them). Shouldn't you be mending Lady Morgana's dresses in her chambers? You'll lose more than spools if you stay down here.

Gwen: (getting emotional as she remembers the thread's purpose) Oh! My lady is resting, and this just came off the drying line (shows Merlin's torn shirt)

Laundress Ro: If it just came off the line... (squints at the damaged shirt, only clearly seeing fabric with a gaping hole) Well now, this bit's seen better days. Were you planning some embroidery-

Gwen: (suddenly bursts into tears)

Laundress Ro: (startled, grabs her soapy stick for support) Gwen? Did I say something wrong? You needn't do fancywork if you don't. I'm sure whatever you-

Gwen: (sobs harder)

Chimney Sweep Ale: (skips in singing cheerfully) 🎶"Chim chiminey, chim chiminey, chim chim cher-ee! A sweep is as lucky as lucky can be! 😊 Chim chiminey..."🎶 (halts mid-song at the scene) What's happening? (to Laundress Ro) What'd you say to her? 😠

Laundress Ro: (recognizes her immediately since she's the only one always covered in soot) Ale! I've no idea! I just asked if she'd embroider the torn fabric. Shouldn't you be cleaning Lady Morgana's chimney?... Hey! You'll stain my drying linens hanging there! 😠

Chimney Sweep Ale: Supposed to do Lady Morgana's chimney, but she's holed up in her tower. Bit hard to work when she's about and the fire's lit. Got sent to help down here instead. (accidentally leans her sooty hand on a fabric) Oops, sorry! 😰

Laundress Ro: (snatches fabric away) "Help" that hinders isn't help at all. 😒

Chimney Sweep Ale: (to Gwen) Why are you crying like that shirt's made of onions?

Gwen: (sniffling) It's not about the shirt.

Chimney Sweep Ale: (even more confused and concerned) If it's not the shirt, why are you crying?

Maid Yess: (out of nowhere beside a half-empty breakfast tray) Yeah, why are you crying? 👀

Sweep, Laundress & Gwen: (scream in unison)

Chimney Sweep Ale: (clutching her chest) Yess! You gotta stop doing that!

Maid Yess: Drama queen 🙄 (to Gwen) Now tell us why you're crying. Smells like good tea ☕️. I mean, we're so concerned 🥺.

Gwen: (sniffles) It's-It's about Merlin! (continues weeping)

Chimney Sweep Ale: Merlin? He's one of the new ones, right?

Maid Yess: Prince's new manservant and Gaius' apprentice, yep yep.

Laundress Ro: (remembering) Oh yeah! The one who made that scene yesterday. Heard all about it last night.

Maid Yess: I was there. It was beautiful 🤧.

Laundress Ro: (flicks her ear)

Chimney Sweep Ale: (to Gwen) Is that his shirt you're mending? Why are you sewing his clothes?

Gwen: (bursts into louder sobs)

Maid Yess: Oh stop crying and just tell us! 😠

Laundress Ro: (flicks her ear again) Don't be heartless!

Chimney Sweep Ale: (pushes her) Stop hitting her 😠. You'll make her drop her teapot. (to Gwen, concerned) Don't tell me he got sacked.

Maid Yess: Sacked? Ha! That'd be the best outcome. But if the kitchen maids' theories are right, I doubt it.

Gwen: (wiping tears) No, he's still the prince's servant.

Maid Yess: See? Something worse happened to this one.

Chimney Sweep Ale: No... Was he demoted like me? 😨 (pause) Well, I wouldn't mind a chimney partner. 😊

Laundress Ro: The only reason you ONLY got demoted was because the prince never met you personally. And burning his breakfast hardly compares to publicly insulting him.

Maid Yess: Yeah, how naive. 🙄

Gwen: No, he wasn't demoted. (on the verge of fresh tears)

Laundress Ro: Gwen, breathe. You're acting like the prince gave the boy a proper beating-

Gwen: (shrieking) HE DID! 😭

Entire Room: (already eavesdropping, now turning blatantly with collective gasps) 😱😱😱😱😱😱

Laundress Ro & Chimney Sweep Ale: WHAT?! 😨😨

Maid Yess: Called it 😏 (pours herself tea)

Laundress Ro: (feeling around with her soapy stick to bring Gwen a stool) Tell us everything.

Chimney Sweep Ale: (sits her down) Yes, don't leave out a single detail.

Maid Yess: And exaggerate. (sips tea loudly)

BASED ON THIS PROMPT >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

...

We actually had this part written for a while, but we wanted to finish all the events of "Valiant" befoe publishing. However, we realized this part was getting twice as long as the previous part, so we decided it was best to cover the chapter in three parts rather than two. Or even four, who knows? There's a lot going on poor Valiant was almost forgotten XD. He will regain importance by next part though.

Also it was insteresting to explore a Merlin who isn't influenced by prophecy or destiny and has, for once, his own priorities. And it seems this Arthur is not so fond of this Merlin... or is he? 👀😏🙊

Anyways, do you like the new side characters? I always thought we should've gotten more castle workers characters in the show. This is how they look (made with a mix of AI, FaceApp and Picsart):

I think is easy to guess who is who XD.

What do you think will happen next? Let me know in the comments.

Tagging @chaosofbelievers , @blackgigglypuff , @stressed-but-chill , @nocheaseforyougoodsir , @thedragonlies , @evedaser , @lolazoel , @sammythetoaster , @caraspud , @bertoliosis35-blog , @lordemryspendragon , @herstarlight , @justaz , @myalchemicalgnomace , @exmintha , @dumbdemjin , @a-line-drawn , @itsjustmeandmyanxiety , @beebsnas , @rem-the-moth , @tmarauder101 , @whitemaskcd , @robynnemrys , @genyxie , @trubel43 , @andrealux21 , @shitsandgiggles2001 , @zarakem , @justafangirlwithphases , @akelafang , @i-write-stories-not-sins-bitch , @cococatloversstuff

[larluce]

Arthur and Merlin travel back in time without knowing the other is from the future too AU (SERIES 2)

FIRST PART (SERIES 1) >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

(Sorry for the delay. College is killing me😔)

In Arthur's chambers.

Arthur: (putting the white lily in more spacious pot with prepared soil like a profesional gardener) There you go.

A knock on the door.

Arthur: Come in.

Morgana: (enters)

Arthur: (grinning, gesturing to the lily) Oh, Morgana. What do you think?

Morgana: (doesn't smile back) Is lovely.

Arthur: I thought about adding a ribbon, but that might be too corny. Don’t you... (notices Morgana is still looking at him with a serious expression) Is everything alright?

Morgana: (cold, direct) Is Merlin here?

Arthur: (thrown at the sudden question) No, he is with Gaius.

Morgana: So we are alone.

Arthur: (more confused) Yes.

Morgana: Good. (slaps Arthur hard in the face)

Meanwhile. In Gaius' Tower.

Merlin: (In his new uniform, humming, while stringing beads onto a thin cord)

Gaius: (while grinding herbs with a mortar and pestle, squints at Merlin’s craft) What is that?

Merlin: I'm doing a necklace for Arthur. 😊

Gaius: (his grip on the pestle tightens) Oh... (resumes pounding the herbs, his movements growing increasingly aggressive)

Merlin: Well, technically it’s a protection amulet. It will ward him of curses, enchantments, that sort of thing. But, truly, I just want to gift him something. He gave me so many court gifts already, I have a lot to catch up.

Gaius: (pounds the herbs harder)

Merlin: (thoughtful) And maybe that's why he's been so insecure lately. I thought I should-

Gaius: (A herb stem flies out of the mortar)

Merlin: Uh… I think you’re overgrinding it. Those leaves won’t have any potency left-

Gaius: (Slams the pestle down) Merlin, we need to talk.

Back with Arthur and Morgana.

Arthur: (with a hand on his cheek) What's wrong with you?!

Morgana: (furious) I should be asking you that! What on earth possessed you to make such a spectacle?

Arthur: (defensive, hand dropping from his face) If this is about what happened in the main square-

Morgana: Oh, it's about far more than your little performance. First, you ruined Merlin's plan to restore some of his reputation in the most shameful way. Then you picked up a fight with Gwaine publicly-

Arthur: (heated) He flirted with him!

Morgana:-making the entire court believe Merlin's been unfaithful! And then! (mocking flourish) The crowning glory! You kneel in the dirt like a lovesick squire before him!

Arthur: (stiffens)

Morgana: (steps closer, lowering voice) Did you consider what this does to him? Merlin isn't nobility. His standing depends entirely on being "the prince's lover." A position you keep undermining!

Arthur: (clenching his fists) I was claiming responsibility—

Morgana: You were marking territory like a dog! (leans in) Every time you lose your temper, Merlin pays the price! Don't you see that? (voice breaks slightly) And gods help him if Uther decides Merlin's at fault for this too. He nearly banished him last time.

Arthur: (fervent) I wont let him!

Morgana: Then start acting like a prince instead of a spoiled boy! (turns to leave, then pauses) I know what it's like. To be judged worthless until a man's favor grants you value. (over shoulder, icy) The difference? When my reputation suffers, I still have my name. My birthright... Merlin only has you.

Arthur: (struck down by her words)

Morgana: Think about that. (leaves)

In the silence, Arthur suddenly remembers Merlin's words "I know our relationship can't be formal or official in any way, but I want it to be at least taken seriously!"

And with what he's done. They'll never take Merlin seriously again.

Arthur sighs, he can't change the past, but he can do better. He will do better.

"Then Gwaine asked lady Merelyn if she was engaged" he remembers Lancelot told him reluctantly when he asked him for details of their conversation. "And he-well she said 'technically i'm not'"

He'll make everyone take Merlin seriously... starting with Merlin himself.

Back with Gaius and Merlin.

Gaius: (sitting infront of Merlin) Remember when I told you Arthur has been obsessed with you since you came to Camelot?

Merlin: (chuckles) Yeah, and I thought you were joking.

Gaius: Well, believe me now. Arthur is obsessed with you. And I'm not saying this as exaggeration. No, he's literally obsessed. And I'm worried.

Merlin: (confused)... What?

Gaius: (choosing his words carefully) When a man strikes in anger, that's one thing. But when he hurts others while calling it love… that's something far more dangerous.

Merlin:(defensive) If this is about Gwaine, Arthur lost his temper, he didn't mean-

Gaius: To almost choke him to death? Because he nearly crushed that man's windpipe. I'm not overstating it. Had you been there a second later, Gwaine wouldn't be telling the tale. Do you understand what I'm trying to say?

Silence...

Merlin: (concedes) Arthur has... anger issues. We are working on that.

Gaius: (leaning forward, gentle but firm) This isn't some bad habit to be cured. You can't change what's been there from the start.

Merlin:(stubborn) He's never acted like this before!

Gaius: (raising an eyebrow) Really? Was he thinking clearly when he threw Lancelot in the dungeons? Or when he nearly started a civil war over you?

Merlin:(flushing) That was different! The rebellion was about justice and-

Gaius:(raises his voice) It was about you! Just like the dungeons were about you! Just like tomorrow's disaster will be about you!

Merlin: ...

Gaius: (softer, reaching for Merlin's hands) My boy… I know you love him. I'm not asking you to leave him. Just… (squeezes his hands) be careful. Come to me if Arthur ever…

Merlin:(eyes widening in realisation) You think Arthur will hurt me?

Gaius: Merlin—

Merlin:(pulling away violently) No! That's ridiculous! Arthur wouldn't dare. (begins pacing)

Gaius: I'm not talking specifically about physical—

Merlin:(whirling around) He loves me! He wouldn't harm me in any way!

Gaius: (patient but firm) I don't doubt his love. But what about today's display in the square?

Merlin: (defensive but blushing) It was… excessive, I know. But he was apologizing! He knelt before me! (voice softens) He's never done that before… He was afraid of losing me. (blushes more) And it was kind of romantic if you think about it-

Gaius: Why?

Merlin: Why what?

Gaius: (leaning forward) Why was he so afraid of losing you?

Merlin: (shifting uncomfortably) Uhm... I... told him I wanted space. Two days. Because I was angry about the Gwaine incident and everything it caused.

Gaius: (face darkens with understanding) So you didn't threaten to leave or gave him any ultimatums. Didn't say you hated him or something of that sort. You just asked for two days... and Camelot saw its prince unravel like a madman.

Merlin: ...

Merlin: Well, if you say it like that-

Gaius: (stands up) What happens when it's not two days, Merlin? When it's forever? (grabs Merlin's wrist) You think that boy would let you go? (laughs bitterly) He'll chain you to his throne before he sees you walk away. And if he can't have you. I'm afraid-

Merlin: (wrenching free) STOP!

Gaius: -he'll kill you and then kill himself!

Merlin: Arthur is not like that! You're twisting everything!

Gaius: (quietly) I wish I was wrong. I held Arthur as a baby and watch him grow. Is not easy for me to accept this either. I always hoped he took after his mother. And in more than one aspect he does. But in matters of love? (sad smile) He's Uther's son through and through.

Merlin: (yells) ARTHUR IS NOTHING LIKE UTHER!

Gaius: ...

Merlin: What if I'm the mad one, Gaius? I've killed for him. Would kill again. Sometimes… (smiles strangely) Sometimes I dream of shrinking him down, keeping him safe in a little box where no one can ever hurt him.

Gaius: (pales)

Merlin: You don't have to worry about what Arthur might do if I leave him. I won't. I can't. (pauses) If he is really as insane as you are portraying him to be... (chuckles softly) then we are perfect for one another. (grabs his incomplete necklace) I'll finish this in my room. (leaves)

Time skip. The next day. In the throne room. Gwaine, Percival, and Lancelot stand before the raised dais where Uther, Arthur, and Morgana sit in solemn authority. Merlin and Gwen hover at their masters’ sides, silent but watchful.

Uther: Have you decided on your reward?

Percival: (bowing) Yes, Sire.

Arthur: (through gritted teeth, looking at Gwaine) Why is he still eligible for rewards?

Uther: (dismissive wave) He isn't. But his companion is. (eyes Percival) And it seems you wish to petition for both.

Percival: (diplomatic) We seek permanent positions in your household, my lord.

Merlin: (open his eyes wide in surprise)

Arthur: (his jaw tightens)

Gwaine: (smirks)

Uther: Is that so?

Percival: Any capacity you deem fit.

Uther: (turns to Lancelot) And you?

Lancelot: (glancing at Gwen) I hope to start a family soon. A steadier position would be… appreciated.

Gwen: (her cheeks flush crimson)

Merlin: (bites his lip to hide a grin)

Morgana: (smiles bittersweetly)

Arthur: (mock-thoughtful) Well, now that Lancelot is moving on, the stables could use another pair of hands. Gwaine did quite… impressively yesterday.

Gwaine: (his smirk falters)

Uther: (leaning back, fingers steepled, a glint in his eye) Actually, I had something more useful in mind. (gestures grandly) You'll be the personal guards of Prince Arthur's manservant!

Silence.

Arthur: (explodes) WHAT?! 😡

Merlin: (squeaking) Wait—MY guards?! 😨

Uther: (raising an eyebrow at Arthur) Didn’t you insist your manservant needed protection?

Merlin: (whisper yelling at Arthur) You did what?! 😠

Arthur: (to Uther) Yes, but-

Uther: Then is done. (To Percival, Lancelot and Gwaine) What are you waiting for? Bow to your new master.

Percival, Lancelot, Gwaine: (get out of their stupor and, in slightly delayed unison, bow deeply) My lord.

Merlin chokes on air. Arthur looks like he’s about to combust. Morgana’s composure cracks, a snort escaping.

Arthur: (through gritted teeth, to Uther) Father. A word.

Uther: (ignores him) That will be all. You start tomorrow.

Percival, Lancelot, Gwaine: (bow again and leave)

Gwaine turns, smirking like he’s won the lottery, only for Percival to smack the back of his head. Lancelot walks like a man to the gallows. Morgana finally loses it, laughter ringing off the vaulted ceilings. Gwen buries her face in her hands. Merlin is still too stunned in place to have a proper reaction.

And Arthur? Arthur looks moments away from declaring war on the entire room. Why is his father doing this?! He isn't naive enough to believe Uther Pendragon suddenly decided to grant his wish. Was this his way of punish him? Or just wanted to annoy him? No, something tells him there's more to it, but he can't tell what.

For now, he'll have to settle for the fact that at least Merlin's new guards genuinely care about him. One of them a bit more than he should.

Time skip. In Arthur's chambers. Merlin strips off his "monk uniform", tossing it over a chair with more force than necessary. Arthur watches, jaw tight, as Merlin rounds on him.

Merlin: (frustrated, arms wide) What made you think giving me guards was a good idea?

Arthur: You attract as many assassination attempts as I do!

Merlin: Which I handle, because I'm perfectly capable of defending myself!

Arthur: With magic, which you can't always use openly.

Merlin: (throws up his hands) Oh, brilliant! So now how am I supposed to defend myself at all with three men watching me constantly?

Arthur: ...

Merlin: You didn't think of that, did you? 😒

Arthur: (sighs, scrubbing a hand over his face) … I’m sorry.

Merlin: (softens his expression and steps forward, one hand settling on Arthur's shoulder) I know you worry (cups Arthur's cheek, which makes Arthur lean into the touch, eyes closing briefly) But I'm not defenseless. I'm a very powerful sorcerer, remember?

Arthur: (eyes flickering open, pained) Being powerful didn’t stop you from- (cuts himself off)

Merlin: (frowns) From what?

Arthur: From getting into trouble more than once. (catches Merlin’s hand against his cheek, threading their fingers together) But you’re right. No more decisions about you… (Brushes his lips over Merlin’s knuckles) without you.

Merlin: (blushes) Alright, I forgive you. (Grins) Only because I actually LIKE my new guards.

Arthur: (scoffs, but his thumb still traces circles on Merlin’s wrist) I wish I could say the same. (Smirks) I can still try to reduce them to two.

Merlin: (poking Arthur’s chest) Nope. I want all three. (Sweetly vicious) Suck it up.

Arthur: (sighs, defeated. But then lifts Merlin's hand again, turning it over in his own like something precious) You know I love the shape of your hands?

Merlin: (chuckles) What a weird thing to say.

Arthur: You have calluses.

Merlin: From scrubbing your socks. 😒

Arthur: (thumb skating over his wrist) And they are always cold.

Merlin: (rolls his eyes, fond) I’ve always been cold.

Arthur: (pulls him closer, pressing Merlin’s palm flat over his heart) And yet, when you touch me… (leans in, forehead resting against Merlin’s) They always feel warm an soft.

They stay like that. Feeling each other's breath and heartbeats. Merlin closes his eyes and thinks that, sometimes, moments like this are even more intimate than any kiss would be. Just holding each other close, feeling.

Then Merlin feels the cool slide of metal against his finger and his eyes fly open.

Merlin: (startled, pulling back slightly) What-What is this?

Arthur: (not releasing his hand, soft but firm) My mother's ring.

Merlin: (staring at the royal heirloom now circling his finger) Why are you putting it on me?

Arthur: (smiling faintly) Isn't it obvious?

Merlin: (realises, voice rising in panic) No! You aren't actually giving it to me. You can't! (Tries to pull away but Arthur holds fast) This is supposed to belong to…(thinking) To your future queen. I know because Gwen had it in my other life. (says) Your mother's sigil is one thing. This is too much.

Arthur: (steadfast, stepping closer) I want you to have it. You are the only person I want by my side. Always.

A tear splashes onto their joined hands. Then another. Merlin's breath hitches before he crumples forward, his free hand fisting in Arthur's tunic as sobs wrack his frame.

Merlin: (laughter tangled with tears) You're so… infuriating! (Beats weakly at Arthur's chest) So sweet and cruel at the same time!

Arthur:(startled, catching Merlin's wrists) What do you mean?

Merlin: (looks up, eyes red-rimmed and voice breaking) We can't marry, Arthur. You know it's imposible, and you still- (His words dissolve into another sob, forehead dropping against Arthur's shoulder.) You still give me this like we could…

Arthur: (arms come around Merlin, one hand cradling the back of Merlin's neck. His lips brush Merlin's temple as he speaks) Then let this be my vow instead. (Pulls back to meet Merlin's gaze, thumb wiping his tears.) No ceremony. No kingdom's approval needed. (Brings Merlin's ringed hand to his lips.) To me… we are married.

Merlin stares at their joined hands. At the ring that shouldn't be his, but Arthur decided to give him to prove him, once more, he only loves him. That they only belong to each other. All the doubts he had left, his fear of not being enough, of Arthur's love being temporary, and, more recently, Gaius' warnings… they die in this very moment.

Arthur watches the realization dawn on Merlin's face with quiet satisfaction.

Arthur: So, the next time someone asks you if you are engaged (Serious look) you say yes.

Merlin: (gasps, shoving at Arthur's chest) Oh! So this is about what Gwaine told Lady Merelyn in the woods! (Hits his shoulder halfheartedly, grinning despite himself) I should have known!

Arthur: (catches Merlin's wrist, chuckling) Can't it be both? (Softens, brushing their noses together) A vow… and a reminder that you are not single.

Merlin: (rolls his eyes) I never said I was single. (looks at the ring) Uther will kill me if he sees me with this. I'll wear it as necklace. That big robe will hide it well- (suddenly his smile falters and looks down at their joined hands, hesitant)

Arthur: (tilts Merlin's chin up) What is it?

Merlin: (chewing his lip) Nothing. It's just… (gestures vaguely to the ring) I had a gift for you too. But it can't compare to-

Arthur: (lighting up like a child on Christmas morning) Give it to me!

Merlin: (flushing crimson, pulling away) I don't think I should now.

Arthur: (cornering him against the bedpost with predatory glee) Merlin. (Fingers find his ribs) Give. (Tickles mercilessly) Me! (Nips his jaw) My! (Lifts him onto the bed) Present!

Merlin: (squirming with laughter) Alright! Alright! (Catches his breath and gets off the bed, suddenly shy) Just… don't expect anything grand. (goes to his chambers)

Arthur: (perches on the edge of the bed, knees bouncing with barely-contained energy)

Merlin: (comes back, hands on his back) Close your eyes. (warns) Don't pick!

Arthur: (eyes snap shut)

Merlin: (puts the handmade necklace in his hands) There. Don't... don't laugh.

Arthur: (opens his eyes and looks the necklace in awe)

The necklace is made of cords and beads woven into an intricate pendant. The Pendragon dragon rendered in tiny, painstaking stitches of cobalt-blue thread. A faint golden glow pulses at its core.

Merlin: It's a protection amulet. So you don't get... cursed and all.

Arthur: (breathless, tracing the embroidery with trembling fingers) You… made this? When did you even-

Merlin: When helping Gaius, though I wasn't exactly helping him. (Points to faint needle marks on his fingertips.) Hence the… extra calluses.

Arthur turns the amulet over. On the reverse, hidden from casual view, stitched in Merlin's messy hand: "Dollophead."

Arthur: (chokes on a laugh that sounds suspiciously wet)

Merlin: (watching Arthur's face anxiously) You… like it?

Arthur: Like it? (Crushing Merlin against him, the amulet pressed between their hearts.) I LOVE IT, you absolute— (kisses his temple) —dollophead of a sorcerer!

Merlin: (muffled into Arthur's shoulder, indignant) That’s my word! (but he smiles into Arthur's clothes, so happy Arthur liked it)

Arthur: (holding the pendant as proof) It seems that now it's mine.

Merlin: (huffs but then says softly) It'll glow if there's magic meaning to harm you. (Swallows hard.) And it should stop at least one killing curse. (Looks up, eyes vulnerable.) But mostly I just... wanted you to have a bit of my magic... always with you.

Arthur:(his expression does something complicated and then says, hoarse) Put it on me.

Merlin's fingers shake as he puts the necklace over Arthur's head.

Arthur: (touching it reverently) Now we both have something to hide under our clothes. (Grins, wicked) Though I do wonder (traces Merlin's collarbone where the ring will rest) How will you look wearing your necklace... and nothing else.

Merlin: (suddenly very hot and smirks) I think I have an extra cord in my room.

Meanwhile. In Uther's chambers.

Percival, Gwaine and Lancelot: (enter an bow)

Lancelot: (formal, guarded) Did you call for us, sire?

Gwaine: (frowning, arms crossed) I thought our job started tomorrow.

Uther: (leaning back in his throne-like chair, eyes sharp) Officially, yes. (Steeples his fingers.) But your true purpose requires… discretion.

Silence. The newly hired guards exchange glances. Percival shifts uncomfortably.

Percival: (careful) Is there something… specific about Merlin's protection we should know?

Uther: (lips curls into a thin smile) Oh, you won’t be protecting the boy. (Pauses) Not really.

Another silence. Lancelot goes very, very still.

Uther: (leaning forward, voice dropping to a whisper) Your true task… is to spy on him.

FIRST PART (SERIES 1) >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

....

This was a bit of a filler part, but not totally. Will Lancelot, Percival and Gwaine betray Merlin? What will they do? We know Arthur later gives his mother's ring to Morgana, but, if Arthur gave Merlin the ring here, what do you think happened in between for Morgana to have it?

Tagging @aceauthorcatqueen , @fallenxjas , @smileytrinity , @lucifertookmyshoe @an-entity-i-think , @thecornerofbelu , @griffonskies , @odinjm , @cinnabon-sweetroll-tiramisu , @thelady-mary , @bennedict , @nightninjaboy , @st8-of-grace , @starrieisdelusional , @error-username-not-available , @dogberryrowan , @jamieweasley13 , @tansyuduri , @tercais , @robynnemrys , @evadne01 , @serasvictoria02 , @hairdryerducks , @curiously-lazy , @harriettesthings , @andrealux16 , @wacko-weirdo , @greatdonutenemy , @yougottobekittenme , @anxiousosaurus , @kinkforwings , @someweirdassnamee , @impracticalantlers , @miyriu , @hobipabo , @whitemaskcd , @bogslob , @braziiis , @rubinaitoart , @thebigoblin , @toomanyfanficsbruh , @farmboyprince , @nonsensefunsense , @slightly-psycho-multifan , @jxmimac , @anarchelsworld , @beepbeep-yeah , @faithiikins , @the-moons-undying-light , @atlasflower , @chaosofbelievers , (tagging the rest in the comments cause apparently you can't tag that many people)

[larluce]

To think that in this short fraction of time...

This was all that was going through Merlin's head:

Fic Recover By My Side (now with Merlin's perspective)

[larluce]

"Merlin."

The voice on the other side of the door startles him.

Arthur.

The young warlock scrambles backward on instinct, glass shards biting into his palms. He barely flinches. It’s nothing compared to what he’s already endured. He has to protect Arthur. Keep him away! But that’s hard when the stubborn prat insists on visiting him every single day.

The familiar sound of parchment sliding under the door reaches his ears.

"Please. Talk to me." Arthur’s voice is soft, but persistent, just like every other time he’s tried to coax Merlin into responding.

" I can’t talk, you idiot, " Merlin thinks, glaring at the door as if it were Arthur himself. "That’s the whole damn problem. I can’t do anything. I’m useless now! "

"You know what I mean," Arthur says, as if he’d heard his thoughts. "Write something." A pause. Merlin can hear his unsteady breath against the wood, picturing him leaning his forehead against it. "Please," he adds finally, voice cracking in a way that twists Merlin’s heart.

And yet part of Merlin hates him for it. Hates that Arthur treats him so differently now, because it’s just another reminder of how broken he is. That’s why he doesn’t want to see him. Doesn’t want anyone to see him like this.

OR

Merlin's perspective of the events of Recover By My Side

READ CHAPTER HERE!

[larluce]

NEW RANDOM MERTHUR PROMPT!!

So this is an alternative ending of what happened at Camlann.

Morgana and her army are about to win, when suddenly a great force sends them flying until they are outside the limits of Camelot. Morgana and the few that survived try to get back, but an invisible wall pevents them from crossing the border. They soon realize there is a magic force field surrounding all Camelot. Nobody can cross it.

Morgana is furious. Is clear to her Emrys somehow survived her attack at the crystal cave and did this. But she won't be defeated. Camelot will be hers even if its the last thing she does!

As she guessed, the shield permits allies, merchants, even peasants to pass freely. Only enemies are barred. Arthur can’t hide forever. The moment he steps beyond that barrier, she would strike.

A year slips by before her patience is rewarded.

Arthur rides out alone, unguarded. Morgana ambushes him, her followers encircling him with drawn steel. Yet he dismounts slowly, his face gaunt and eyes hollow.

Morgana: (smirking) Finally crawled out of your little cage, have you?

Arthur: (soft, weary) Hello, Morgana. I was looking for you.

Morgana: (scofs) You? Seeking me? Are you suicidal? Or do you truly believe you can kill me alone?

Arthur: I don’t want to kill you. I came to offer a deal.

Morgana: (confused) A deal?

Arthur: I'll give you Camelot.

Morgana: ...

Morgana: (laughs) Right. What is it that you came really?

Arthur: It's the truth.

Morgana: Do you take me for a fool? (Looks around) This is a trap, isn't it? Where is your pet sorcerer, Uh? Waiting in the shadows for the moment to strike as always!

Arthur: (pained) He isn't here.

Morgana: (snarls) LIAR! That traitor would never abandon his precious king!

Arthur: (Yells) HE CAN’T BE HERE BECAUSE HE IS IN COMA!

Morgana: ...

Morgana: (her smirk falters) What?

Arthur: (voice breaking) The barrier drains his magic. His body sleeps to sustain it. (a couple of tears falls) No one can wake him. Not Gaius, not the Druids. There's no one powerful enough to break it... No one but you.

Morgana: (stunned) You… want me to break the shield?

Arthur: I never asked him to do this. (Takes a deep breath) help me and Camelot is yours.

Morgana scrutinizes Arthur. The desperation in his face is too raw, too real to be a trick. She knows him too well. Still...

Morgana: (cold, calculating) You expect me to believe you’d surrender Camelot... just to wake him?

Arthur: (voice steady, but his hands clenched) Not just Camelot. My crown. Whatever you want. It’s yours.

Morgana: (amused) You’d trade your kingdom for a servant?

Arthur: (soft, deadly serious) For my friend.

Morgana: Your friend?... or perhaps something more?

Arthur: ...

Morgana: (laughs, cruel) Oh, my hopeless brother. Always the sentimental fool. Does your beloved queen know? (Pauses, savoring the tension.) In fact… does anyone know what you intend to do?

Arthur: ...

Morgana: (mocking) Arthur, the ever-honorable… lying to his people. Why doesn’t that surprise me?

Arthur: (gritted teeth) Will you help me or not?

Morgana: (icy) How do I know this isn't a trick?

Arthur: (kneels, voice raw with pleading) You don’t. This is a leap of faith for us both. But I swear it—on everything I hold dear. (his voice cracks) Just… please. Bring him back to me.

So Morgana accepts the deal.

She will wake Emrys, yes. But then she will slit Arthur’s throat the moment the barrier falls. Camelot will be hers, and her vengeance complete.

Yet the spell defies her. Merlin’s magic is woven into the land itself, a tapestry of ancient power. Even with Merlin's journals and his scribbled incantations (which Arthur provides her), the answer eludes her. Days turn into weeks, and their forced clandestine alliance becomes a slow, seething dance.

At first, they speak only in clipped barbs:

Morgana: (flinging a book aside) His handwriting is atrocious.

Arthur: (not looking up) He was in a hurry.

Then comes the venom:

Morgana: You let Uther’s laws stand for years. How many sorcerers died because you were too much of a coward to change them?

Arthur: (eyes blazing) And how many innocents died in your ‘noble’ crusade? I won't deny I've made mistakes, but don't pretend you are better than me.

Later the truth unravels and so does their rage:

Morgana: (brittle) Morgause… used me? When Emrys poisoned me?

Arthur: (exhuasted) Merlin thought you knew.

Morgana: (in denial) No! I don't believe you! You are a fucking liar!

Arthur: (shrugging, hollow) Believe what you want. I honestly don't care. You still chose her. You still betrayed us.

Morgana: (raises her voice, furious) I was alone!

Arthur: (roars) NO, I WAS THERE! You just assumed I was the same as my father despite the many times I proved you otherwise! You chose to be alone, because you decided I wasn't someone to trust on your own!

Morgana: (sneering) Oh, please! Not even Merlin could trust you!

Arthur: (flinches as if struck) ...

Morgana: (knowing she went too far) Arthur-

Arthur: (icy, turning away) We’re done for today. (leaves)

But eventually they come to a some kind of unespoken forgiveness, which allows them to have more deep convarsations:

Arthur: He told me about his magic… before Camlann. (Lets out a broken laugh) I accused him of lying. He couldn’t even prove it—

Morgana: (quietly) Because I stole his magic with the Gean Canach.

Arthur: (nods and tears fall) He begged me to let him get his magic back. On his knees, Morgana. Said he needed it to protect me… to save us all. But I was so mad and hurt (presses his palms to his eyes, shoulders shaking) So I told him to leave and never come back. That, from that moment on, he was nothing to me. (Sobs) Those were my last words to him.

Morgana watched him—this broken king, this boy she’d once loved as family—and felt something long-buried stir.

Arthur: (wiping his tears) You were right. He couldn't trust me... And I proved he was right not to.

Morgana: (carefully neutral) You're being too hard on yourself. You were overwhelmed.

Arthur: (barking a laugh) You're defending me now?

Morgana: (sharp, but not cruel) I’m stating facts. I have no reason to pity you.

But before they know, the air between them shifts.

One day, after weeks of frustration, Morgana slams Merlin's journal shut.

Morgana: This is useless. I need to see him.

Arthur: (instantly tense) No.

Morgana: (raising an eyebrow) You’re refusing now? After weeks of begging for my help?

Arthur: (jaw clenched) You’ve spent years trying to kill him. Forgive me if I don’t trust you alone with him in a vulnerable state.

Morgana: (mocks) Ah, so much for your grand leap of faith. (but then her voice drops to something almost sincere) Arthur, I can’t unravel a spell this complex from notes alone. His magic isn't just dormant—it's woven into the land. I need to examine him directly.

A long silence. Arthur’s fingers tighten around the arm of the chair Morgana offered him in her lair.

Arthur: (threatens) If you hurt him—

Morgana: (dryly) Yes, yes, you’ll run me through. I’m terrified. (Leans forward, eyes sharp.) But ask yourself—if I wanted him dead, why would I waste weeks poring over his scribbles?

Silence.

Arthur: (reluctant, but resolved) … Fine. I'll bring him.

Aaaand that's all I got. I guess Arthur would need help to bring Merlin to Morgana (cause it's not easy to drag a body around alone without no one noticing), so the knights would have to find out what he's been doing in secrecy. Don't know how they'd react to their king trading his kingdoom with the enemy. Defenitely not well. And how would Gwen take it? Don't know how exactly they would break the spell either (It can't be as simple as true love kiss cause Arthur already tried) . And will Morgana get Camelot? I really don't know if she should.

Anyway, what do you think should happen?

[larluce]

Merlin as Arthur's familiar/Arthur's shapeshifter falcon AU

FIRST PART >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

The prince leads the hunt for his missing female merlin chick with fevor. The knights trailing him exchange uneasy glances—they’ve never seen the crown prince so unhinged. Arthur tears through every corner of the Citadel, interrogating servants, merchants, and nobles alike. Posters bearing an eerily detailed portrait of Rain paper every wall. The reward for her return is so great many bring merlin chicks before the prince, trying to pass them as Rain, only to be sent to the dungeons for trying to fool him. It’s as if they’re searching for a lost royal heir rather than a bird.

But one day passes... and then two... but there's still no sign of Rain.

Knight x: (hesitant, wiping sweat from his brow) Sire. We checked all the places in the Citadel. Maybe... Maybe we should consider-

Arthur: (wheeling around, a dangerous tone in his voice) Consider what?

Knight x: (flinching, stammering) 😰 That... that the-the chick is-is not... I mean-it's been days, Your Highness—

Arthur: (expression darkening, stepping closer) Are you suggesting that my Rain, that a raised since she was an egg, my only girl, my sunshine... is gone? Is that what you’re implying, Sir Owen? (points his sword at Knight 1)

Knight x: (hands raised, trembling) N-no, Sire, I—!

Leon: (stepping in, calm but firm) I think what he is trying to say is that we should widen the search beyond the Citadel since we had no results here so far, your highness.

Arthur: (his grip on his sword tightens. Then relents and lowers the blade, jaw clenched) You're right. (to Leon) Send riders to the lower town and the outer villages. Double the reward. (to the rest, biting out each word) I’ll scour the Citadel one last time. If she’s not here… (He mounts his horse in one fluid motion, knights scrambling to follow.) Then we burn the damned forests to the ground if we must. (leaves, his retinue thundering behind him)

Leon: (dry, to Knight X) I told you it was a bad idea.

Knight x: (weakly clutching his neck) I thought he’d stab me… 😰

Leon: He would have (patting his shoulder) Next time you suggest Rain's dead, make sure you have your will written.

Meanwhile, with Rain.

For two long days, Rain has wailed for her Mama and Papa, keeping the entire hostel awake with her distressed chirps. Gwaine does his best to soothe her—offering scraps of meat, makeshift toys, even lullabies—but nothing helps. Finally, the hostel’s matron snaps.

Hostel Matron: (flinging the door open) OUT! Both of you! That demon rooster hasn’t let a soul sleep! (hurls Gwaine’s half-packed bag at him)

Gwaine: (stumbling into the street, Rain clutched in one hand) Hideous woman! She didn’t even refund my money!

Rain: It's your fault! 😠 You were supposed to lock me in a high tower with a dragon! Not a smelly room with an ugly old female predator. You're the worst capturer ever. 🙄

Gwaine: (patting his pockets) Now where do I get more coin…

Rain: Oh! I know what that is! 😃 Papa has a lot of that. The round shiny things. He uses them to get me more shiny things. 😊 (gets sad) Papa 🥺. I want my Papa! 😭

Gwaine: No, no, no, no, no! Don't cry! 😨 I'll get you more food. (searches his pockets) Not a single coin 😞... Oh! I could sell my bracelet 😃. (rolls up one of his sleeves and takes off his bracelet)

Rain: (stops crying inmediatly) Shiny thing! 😄 (snatches it, draping it around her neck like a collar)

Gwaine: (in panic) Wait! Don’t eat it—! (relieved sigh) Oh, you’re just wearing it.

Rain: (posing) 🐥🐦😏🪽

Gwaine: (chuckles) I can see you like it a lot. But I need it to get us food- (about to take the bracelet)

Rain: (looks at him with big watery eyes and a trembling lower beak) 🥺

Gwaine: How the hell do you manage that?! 😨

Rain: 😢😖

Gwaine: (defeated) Alright! (sighs) I guess we can handle one day without food. Or I could sell my boots… (cuts himself off as if realising something and then chuckles) I can't believe I'm talking to a fucking bird. Am I really this lonely?

Rain: (confused) What's... (doesn't find an equivalent to the f word in falcon language) that word?

Gwaine: Can I tell you a secret? (holds her closer to his face) I think you're the closest thing to a friend I’ve had in years.

Rain: I'm not your friend, human peasant 😠. You captured me!

Gwaine: Yeah, yeah, I like you too. (pats her head)

Rain: I didn't say that! 😡

Gwaine: (spots a poster in a wall) What is that? (aproaches, reads and smiles) How funny! They are offering a reward for finding the prince's royal pet (looks the drawing closely) Oh, look! It looks a lot like you.

Rain: (chirping loudly, making little hops and pointing with her wing) It's me! It's me! It's me!

Gwaine: It even has your scarf... (realises) Wait... (checks the scarf in Rain's neck, lifts it and finds the Camelot seal in the back) YOU ARE THE PRINCE'S PET?!😨 WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME?! 😱

Rain: I'm not his... that word 😠. I'm his daughter! And I did tell you! 😡

Gwaine: (who only hears "chip, chip, chip", feeling stupid) Right, you can't talk.

Rain: I CAN talk! It's you who doesn't understand me, ignorant peasant! 😤 (pauses) My Papa is looking for me 🥺 (chirps louder, looking around) Papa? (and louder, chirp crying) PAPAAAA! 😭

Somewhere near. Arthur and his knights riding on their horses.

Arthur: (jerks his horse to a halt, eyes wide)

Knight y: Sire?

Knight z: Wait, do you hear that?

Arthur: (whispering, raw) Rain. (suddenly roaring) RAIN! (leaps off his horse, sprinting toward the sound)

Knights: (scrambling after him) SIRE—!

Back with Gwain and Rain.

Gwaine: (rocking Rain frantically) Shhh, come on, don't cry! I'll get you back to your owner.

Rain: PAPAAA! 😭

The crowd parts as Arthur comes sprinting into view, his face pale with terror until—

Arthur: (spotting Rain, voice cracking) Rain? Rain! (He barrels forward, snatching her from Gwaine's hands without so much as glancing at him) Oh, my baby girl! (cradles her against his cheek) You're alright—thank the gods, you're alright!

Rain: Papa! 🥹 (curls her claws around her Papa's fingers and rubs her head on her Papa's cheek)

Arthur: (soothes her) It's alright, Papa it's here with you now. I'll never take you out of my sight again. (kisses her head fondly)

Gwaine: (uncomfortable) Uhm... I'm guessing you're the prince. I was just about to look for you, your highness.

Arthur: (finally noticing him, eyes narrowing) You found my Rain?

Gwaine: Yes, Sire.

Rain: (looking at Gwaine, resentful) 😠 This human male captured me and took me to ugly places! 🥺😭

Arthur: (hardens his features, holding Rain as if protecting her) When did you find her? 😑

Gwaine: (nervous) Uhm... Pretty recently.

Rain: Lies! 😠 I've been... (doesn't know how to measure time) an eternity with him! 😭

Gwaine: So... about that reward.

Arthur: (fuming in his place)

Knights: (arrive)

Knight Y: (relieved) Sire, you found her!

Knight Z: (wiping brow) Thank the gods.

Arthur: (turns to his knights, in a barely calm but cold tone) Arrest him.

Knights: (seize Gwaine)

Gwaine: Wha... But I found your bird! There is reward-

Arthur: (low, dangerous) And it wasn't enough for you, was it? That's why you kidnapped my daughter. To use her for ransom!

Gwaine: What daughter?!

Knight y: (whispers) The bird, mate.

Gwaine: Oh... It's a her? (thinking) I guess that explains why it was so whimsy. (says) Well, I didn't kidnap HER! I was going to bring her back!

Arthur: (voice rising, angry) When exactly? Because the posters and searching parties have been around for DAYS!

Gwaine: (now angry too) You royals are all the same! You promise something and then you don't even-

Rain: (throws up, soiling Arthur's chainmail) 🤢🤮.

Gwaine: (bursts out laughing) HA! 😂

Knights: (still holding Gwaine, go pale)

Knight Y: (hissing) Oh, no.

Knight Z: (whispering) You’re dead.

Gwaine: (grinning) What? It’s funny-

Arthur: (worried) My baby! (examines the vomit, then Rain) What did you eat?

Gwaine: (snorts, thinking) Oh, now he’s interrogating the bird.

Rain: Some nasty dry bird. 😞

Arthur: (murmurs, confused) Dry?

Gwaine: (thinking) This is hiliarous! He really believes the bird is answering!

Arthur: (opens his eyes in realisation and looks back at Gwaine furious) You gave my daughter cooked meat?! 😡

Gwaine: (thinking) Don't fuck with me! It actually answered him! 😱(says) I was... not supposed to? 😅

Arthur: (holds Gwaine by the collar with the hand that is not holding Rain, yelling) FALCONS ONLY EAT RAW MEAT! 😡

Gwaine: (surprised) That's a falcon?! 😨

Arthur: YOU DIDN’T EVEN KNOW?! 😤

Rain: (scared because she never saw her Papa this angry) Papa? 🥺

Arthur: (composes himself, lets go of Gwaine and pulls out his sword to Gwaine's throat, but speaks with a calm voice to not scare Rain) How long have you been feeding my Rain cooked meat? 😊

Gwaine: Uh... 😰

Arthur: My physician will check her so you better not lie. 🙂

Gwaine: 3 days, I think. Cooked chicken meat.

Rain: Not always, the first time he didn't feed me.

Arthur: (his smile becomes more strained) I see... 😊 (sheathes his sword and them covers Rain's eyes and ears, his smile drops as he orders the knights) Make sure to beat the shit out of him before you drag him to the dungeons.

Knights: Yes, Sire.

Arthur: (walks way)

Gwaine: (shouts) Wait! Little bird—tell him I also took care of you!

Knights: (start beating Gwaine)

Rain: (snuggles into Arthur's hands) Papa saved me! 😄 Like a knight in shining armor! 🥰

Arthur: (smiling, fondly) I will always come for you, princess. (pulls out a little blanket from his satchel and wraps her lovingly)

Leon: (arrives and bows) Sire, I’ve already sent—(spots Rain) Oh! You found her! 😃

Arthur: (urgent) Get a cart. I won’t risk riding while holding her.

Leon: (alarmed) Is she hurt?

Arthur: (gritted teeth) Some bastard fed her cooked meat for days, so she's terribly sick.

Leon: (nods) On it, Sire. (sprints off)

Rain: (whimpering) Tummy...hurts! 🥺😭

Arthur: (shouting after Leon) RUN!

Time skip. In Gaius' Tower.

Rain: (devouring her freshly chopped prey—crushed bones, viscera, and all—with gusto) 😋

Gaius: (after examining her) Easy there, don’t forget to drink your water, sweetheart. (turns to Arthur, who stands rigid with worry) She’ll be fine, Sire. Just needs to return to her normal diet and stay hydrated. She’ll recover quickly.

Arthur: (whispers, fatherly panic creeping in) Are you sure she doesn't have some parasite or infection? I read falcons can die from it when they don't eat correctly-

Gaius: And when not treated in time, but that's not the case. I checked. Thoroughly. Even used healing magic—against my better judgment—because you insisted. She’s fine.

Merlin: (bursts in, cradling the nest of chicks) Rain! (rushes to her, setting the nest beside her on the table)

Rain: Mama! 🥹

All male chicks: Sister! 😄😄😄😄

Merlin: (gathers Rain, voice trembling) My chick… (holds her close, careful not to squeeze too tight) I thought... for a moment, I though...

Arthur: (softly) I told you I'd find her.

Merlin: (sets Rain down, glaring at Arthur) I'd have found her sooner if you'd stayed with the chicks like I asked.

Arthur: (exasperated) You're still on about that? (pauses, eyes widening) Wait—you came here in your human form?! 😨 Someone could've seen you!

Merlin: (dramatic flourish) Oh no, a scrawny peasant boy! How dangerous!

Arthur: (deadpan) Merlin. 😒

Merlin: (defiant) I was careful. At worst, they'd assume I'm a servant of yours. And did you really expect me to sit around while my daughter was here?

Wary: Mama, are you fighting? 🥺

All the chicks: 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺

Arthur: No, babies, we are not-

Merlin: (sharp) Yes, we are fighting! You know why? Because you disobeyed and nearly got yourselves killed! 😡

Arthur: (stunned) Merlin—!

Merlin: (firm, unyielding) It's the truth. Morgana is at fault for not keeping an eye on them, yes. But they aren't little hatchlings anymore. They knew the rules and the dangers and still decided to go outside. It was their choice. And I'm not going to pamper them for almost giving us a heart attack!

Arthur: (speechless, staring)...

All the chicks: (shrink into themselves, heads bowed)

Merlin: (calmer but stern) Well? What do you have to say?

Guardian: I'm sorry, Mama. I'm sorry Papa 😔 (nudges his siblings) We are all sorry.

Brave: (nodding fast) It won't happen again. Promise. 😔

Wary: (shuddering) Never ever. It was too scary. 😔

Rain: (nuzzling Merlin) And horrible. 😔

Blizzard: We learned our leason.😔 Please forgive us, Mama. (lifts his head) 🥺

All chicks: (all of them lift their heads) Pleeeease 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺

Merlin: (melting, kisses each head) Of course I forgive you. (stern again) But you’re grounded. No leaving the nest until you master flying.

Blizzard: (to himself) Dammit.

Guardian: (chirp whispering to Blizzard) I told you the big eyes only worked on Papa.

Merlin: To the nest. Now.

Chicks: (scramble in obediently, pouting in bird)

Someone knocks the door.

Merlin: (takes his bird form and stands next to the nest)

Gaius: (calls out) Come in.

Hunith: (bursts in, breathless, her hair windswept and eyes wild with desperation) Gaius!

Gaius: (rushes to embrace her) Hunith! My dear, it’s been too long. What's happened?

Hunith: (clutching his sleeves, voice trembling) I saw him, Gaius! I swear on the Old Gods—he’s here, in Camelot!

Gaius: Who?

Hunith: (near breaking) Merlin!

Silence. Gaius’ face crumples with grief.

Gaius: (gentle, pained) Hunith…

Hunith: (fierce, shaking her head) No—this wasn’t a vision, not like before! I really saw him. You have to believe me!

Arthur: (politely clearing his throat) Forgive the interruption, but who are you? And why the interest in my falcon?

Hunith: (startles, finally noticing the prince)

Gaius: (sad) She's not talking about your falcon, Sire.

Hunith: (flustered, curtsying) Your Highness! (voice cracks) I—I apologize. My name is Hunith of Ealdor. I came to visit my… (trails off)

Gaius: (completes) My niece.

Arthur: (his gaze softens and tucks the nest with his chicks against his chest) A pleasure, Hunith. (gives her a diplomatic smile and then glances between Hunith and Gaius) You clearly have urgent matters to discuss. I’ll give you privacy.

Gaius: (grateful nod) Thank you, Sire.

Merlin: (flies to Arthur's shoulder)

Hunith: (soft, wondering) Is that… a merlin?

Arthur: (surprised, impressed) You recognize the breed? Most mistake him for a kestrel at first.

Hunith: (lips quivering, bittersweet smile) They’re my favorite. (a tear escapes; she turns away swiftly) I—I named my son after them.

Both Arthur and Merlin stiffen, catching the raw grief in her voice. There's an awkward silence.

Arthur: (stumbling) Uh. I…

Gaius: (gentle dismissal) You should go, Sire.

Arthur: (nods, backing toward the door) Of course.

As the door closes behind Arthur, Merlin’s eyes are locked on the woman’s turned back, having a strange feeling of knowing her thought he's sure he has no memory of her.

FIRST PART >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

...

You didn't expect that ending, did you? What do you think will happen?

Also, answering to the latest pool. Yes, Guardian is Merlin's favourite chick. That's because, since he was the first to hatch, Guardian is physically stronger and more skilled than his siblings. In other words, Guardian is more fit to survive. Taking that into account, you can imagine who his less favourite is. This preference may seem unfair, but lets remember Merlin has the mentality of a bird still in some aspects and this is one of them.

Tagging @dsabian , @theplatanitosqueal , @stressed-but-chill , @gregre369 , @chaosofbelievers , @thelordofabsolutelynothing , @another-tblr-fangirl , @aceauthorcatqueen , @smileytrinity , @tiny-and-witchy , @wacko-weirdo , @cacklingharpy , @schiwalker , @natsu2501malo , @dearfuturelyn , @thedollopheadofcamelot , @yougottobekittenme , @your-local-asylum-escapee , @theroundbartable , @alo-ween , @orliththedragon , @dumbdemjin , @dangerhumming , @fandomabibliophobia , @beebsnas , @genyxie , @tyanatadraven , @andrealux21

[larluce]

Ooooh, I love this!

Well, first I would justify WHY Merlin got pregnant. I know mpreg generally doesn't care about logic, but I personally prefer it when fics don't use the excuse "Merlin has magic" as the only explanation for being able to bare children.

So in my mind, the story would go like this: Arthur discovers Merlin's magic and they’ve been distanced from one another since then. Merlin still serves Arthur, but there's no banter between them anymore. For once Merlin acts like the perfect servant, just does as he's told and speaks when asked. And Arthur hates it.

Arthur is still hurting for the lies and the betrayal, but he also misses Merlin deeply. Arthur is so distraught, he ends up getting drunk in a tavern like he never did before and Merlin is the one who has to get him out of there. Due to this they have a heart to heart conversation. There are yells, there are tears and finally forgiveness. Their relationship begins to heal from then, slowly but surely.

Is in the process of healing when that night happens. They made it a rutine to speak alone at night in Arthur's chambers to talk things through, the good and the bad of the things Merlin has done. They always had a bit of wine to endure heavy conversations, but that night they drink a bit too much, so it happens. First a kiss, then 2 kisses, and then suddenly, their clothes are gone and they are making love. The next day, when they wake up naked next to each other in Arthur's bed, they decide to act like nothing happened.

What they didn't know, is that that night was a special one, when the planets aligned with the full moon. The druids from more than one comunnity were doing a ritual, praying to the goddess of fertility and to Emrys, the god of magic itself, that magic may be reborn in Camelot again and flourish.

And that’s how Merlin ended up pregnant with Arthur's baby.

So yes, when Merlin first tells Arthur, he doesn't react well due to that talk he had with his father about what happened to his mother, distrusting Merlin again, but also because they hadn't completely restore their relationship by that point.

Merlin is hurt that Arthur thinks he planned this, that Merlin tricked him into getting him pregnant. He doesn’t even know how it happened! But no matter what he says, Arthur doesn’t believe him.

Merlin thought they were making progress, but it seems he was wrong. His word, his loyalty to Arthur, everything he's done meant nothing to his prince after all. And this knowlegde destroys him.

So Merlin decides to do something drastic: abort. He prepares himself the potion to do it and with tears in his eyes he drinks it.

When Arthur goes to Gaius's chambers to look for Merlin after realising how cruel he had been for accussing Merlin of something so horrible, he finds the worst image he could have seen: Merlin lying on the floor, unconcious and with a growing stain of blood between his legs. Arthur loses it, picks Merlin up and calls for help, desperate. Gaius, fortunately, arrives in time and treats Merlin the best he can and stables him. When Gaius figures out what Merlin tried to do and tells Arthur, the prince can't feel more guilty and devasted.

Arthur: (tears rolling down his eyes, holding Merlin's hand while he lies still unconcious on bed) The baby... Is the baby...?

Gaius: Merlin may have wanted to abort, but his magic didn't. It protected the baby, so it's still alive, but...

Arthur: What?

Gaius: Now his pregnancy is more delicate than ever. Merlin will have to stay in bed and do minimal effort during all his pregnancy and...(his voice breaks) he might not survive childbirth.

Arthur: (breaks down crying)

Merlin: (opens his eyes weakly) Arthur.

Arthur: Merlin! (Leans and holds his hand more tightly)

Merlin: (smiles weakly) It’s okay, Arthur. I got rid of it. You won't have to worry about it anymore.

Arthur: (cries harder)

Arthur apologises over and over again and of course Merlin forgives him, because is Merlin, but the damage is done that's something Arthur will never forgive himself.

Time passes. Arthur visits Merlin everyday during his pregnancy and takes care of him. As Merlin's belly grows, so does his hapiness, but also his fear. He loves this baby with all his being already and the idea of being a father, but the possibility of losing Merlin during childbirth is terrifying. He can't lose Merlin. Is this how his father felt when his mother was pregnant with him?

Is when he compares himself to his father that Arthur realises he loves Merlin. He's been in love with his manservant this whole time. Arthur never felt more stupid.

Then. I don't know. I guess Uther would find out at some point and try to kill Merlin and "that evil creature" he has on his belly. And chaos would ensue.

I saw this meme and the first thing that came to my mind was that I need a fanfic based on this meme. Not just an casual Mpreg merthur story but one were Uther has an actual serious talk about dangers of magic with Arthur and as a example he tells the story of how he's mother got pregnant and died because of magic. He's warns Arthur so that he won't make a similar mistake of trusting magic just like in the meme AND then few weeks later he discovers that he got his manservant pregnant because of one time fucking they did when drunk and went to pretending they were just friends. Imagine the consequences omg.

Like Artur feeling betrayed by Merlin, realising he disappointed his father, Merlin being scared for his life, being accused of tricking Arthur and getting pregnant because of his evil sorcerer plan, hiding it from everyone, not knowing that he could actually get pregnant in the first place he is horrified.

I think it would be interesting if Arthur knew that Merlin has magic before it, fully trusting that he is a goodhearted person, keeping his secret safe. Then he has that talk with Uther and after that Merlin tell him about the pregnancy and Arthur's mind goes back to this talk. He 'realises' that he had been tricked by a sorcerer and Merlin beags him, swears this was an accident.

The potential for heavy angst is immaculate...

[larluce]

Merlin arrives with a baby in Camelot AU

(co-writing with @roxineedstosleep)

BASED ON THIS PROMPT >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

Chapter 3: Valiant (Part 1)

In Gaius's chambers. Merlin, who has barely slept, drags himself out of bed with dark circles under his eyes, hastily putting on his clothes. His day is just beginning, but he's already exhausted.

Gaius: (Almost at the same pace as Merlin, dressing more slowly and then putting more wood on the fire) Did you get any sleep last night?

Merlin: (Yawning) No. (points to the baby in the crib). Someone thought it was a good idea to have colic and roll a bottle across the table.

Baby: (sleeping peacefully) 😴

Merlin walks over to the table to see his list of things to do for the day. His to-do list is quite long, and the castle bells haven't even rung to welcome the day yet.

Gaius: (Looking up from his book) You can barely stand, my boy.

Merlin: (Yawning, as he prepares the bottle of milk) Uh-huh. But the prince can't seem to dress himself, and my roommate is sick. Do you think you could give her-

Gaius: (Sighs and takes the bottle) I'll do my best to look after her today; colic is common at this age. Go before Arthur gets impatient.

Time skip. At the Training Grounds. Arthur is already waiting with his arms crossed when Merlin arrives with his training gear, having already dressed him.

Arthur: (mockingly) Have you always been this slow?

Merlin: (mimicking his tone) Have you always been this helpless?

Arthur: (seriously) You can't talk to me like that.

Merlin: I'm sorry. (exaggeratedly polite tone) Have you always been helpless, my lord? (gives a small bow)

Arthur: (A smile almost forms on his face at the joke, but it soon returns to his angry expression and he throws a training pad at Merlin's head) Let's begin.

And Arthur uses him as a training dummy all morning.

Despite being overworked, Merlin gets some help from other servants who know how difficult Arthur is to deal with.

Time skip. In the laundry room.

George: (while helping Merlin wash Arthur's clothes) He wants you to quit.

Merlin: (confused) Uh?

George: The prince. He's hoping you'll either get fed up and quit, or make a mistake bad enough to get you sacked. He does the same with all his personal manservants. Although you're the first he's ever been so hard on.

Merlin: (laughs) I don't think he's forgiven me for humiliating him in front of his men. (mockingly) Or should I say his daddy's men?

George: (curious) So why aren't you doing it?

Merlin: What?

George: Quit.

Merlin: (thinking) I'm not going to give him the satisfaction. And I need to buy things for my baby. (shrugging) I just came to visit Gaius. I never planned to stay. But it doesn't hurt to have some money.

Merlin doesn't mention the baby to any of the servants. He never does. But something about the sympathetic look George gives him in response makes him suspect they might already know. And he confirms it when he asks Gwen for help with Arthur's armor.

Time skip. At Gwen's house.

Merlin: (dressed in Arthur's armor)

Gwen: (after showing Merlin how to put on the armor) I guess you know what to do with the helmet?

Merlin: (tired, but smiles at him) Yeah, yeah, that was the only bit I'd figured out.

Gwen: (laughs)

Merlin: (puts on the helmet) How come you're so much better at this than me?

Gwen: I'm the blacksmith's daughter. I know pretty much everything there is to know about armour, which is actually kind of sad.

Merlin: (impressed) No, it's brilliant! I would love for my girl— (cuts himself off, eyes widening in panic) I mean, if I had a girl, I would love for her to be interested in my interests. Yeah… (takes off his helmet and avoids Gwen's gaze) I'd better get changed now.

Gwen: (helps Merlin out of the armor and says tentatively) And how is Gaius's little patient?

Merlin: (feigning ignorance) Uh?

Gwen: The one I saw yesterday when we met. The baby.

Merlin: Oh, she is. Uhmm… (decides to repeat the lie Gaius told him to say) She's actually the daughter of a patient. Gaius and I are temporarily looking after her while her mother recovers.

Gwen: (not sounding very convinced) I see… (finishes removing Merlin's armor)

Merlin: (realizes) Wait, have you told anyone about her?

Gwen: …

Merlin: Gwen! 😠

Gwen: In my defense, I didn't know you were going to become the prince's manservant.

Merlin: (pacing) That's why everyone's been looking at me strangely. I'm sure you put them in the idea that she's my daughter! 😡

Gwen: (tries to calm him down) Merlin-

Merlin: (screams) She isn't! I wish she was, but she isn't. And even if she was, what do you all care? Huh? Why can't you just mind your own damn business?! 😤

Gwen: …

Gwen: Just out of curiosity, how much sleep did you get today?

Merlin: (sighs) 2 hours. Maybe. (feeling bad) Sorry, I shouldn't have yelled at you.

Gwen: It's okay. (places the disassembled armor in Merlin's arms) We servants may be gossips, but we never give each other away. We know how to keep a secret when it matters, and we protect each other. I just want you to know that.

Merlin: (smiles, grateful) I'll keep that in mind. (leaves)

Time skip. At the training grounds.

Merlin: (struggles to get the vambrace on Arthur's lower arm)

Arthur: (grumpily) You know the tournament starts today?

Merlin: Yes, sire. (Fixes the buckle on the gorget and tries to make conversation) Are you nervous?

Arthur: I don't get nervous.

Merlin: Really? I thought everyone got nervous-

Arthur: (shouting) Will you shut up?!

Merlin: (gets angry, but says nothing, grabs Arthur's cloak, ties it up, and silently hands him his helmet)

Arthur: Aren't you forgetting something?

Merlin: …

Arthur: Merlin! 😡

Merlin: (innocently) You told me to shut up, I'm just obeying your order, sire.

Arthur: My sword! 😤

Merlin: Right away. (goes to the swords and grabs one, but then puts it back and grabs another, and so on)

Arthur: (impatiently) What are you doing?!

Merlin: Choosing your sword, my lord.

Arthur: Just give me that one.

Merlin: (proceeds to draw his sword veeery slowly)

Arthur: (snatches the sword from Merlin and points it at him, threateningly) Don't think I don't know what you're doing.

Merlin: I have no idea what you're talking about.

Arthur: (enraged) I swear-

Merlin: You'd better hurry or you'll be late for your tournament, my lord.

Arthur: (fuming, but holds it together and walks quickly away)

Merlin: (smirks)

Time skip. At the tournament.

Both Arthur and Valiant win their respective matches. Not that Merlin could know, he was too busy catching up on sleep. He managed to get at least an hour of sleep before His Royal Highness nudged Merlin awake with his foot to make Merlin remove his armor.

Valiant: (Exits the arena, stops near Arthur, and bows) May I offer my congratulations on your victories today?

Arthur: (Frowns suspiciously, but nods) Likewise.

Valiant: I hope to see you at the reception this evening. (Leaves with his servant)

Merlin: (Still half asleep, half awake) Creep. It sounded like he was asking you out.

Arthur: (Shocked) Merlin!

Merlin: (Blinks) Oh, sorry. Did I say that out loud?

Arthur: (Sighs) By tomorrow you need to repair my shield, wash my tunic, clean my boots, sharpen my sword, and polish my chainmail.

Merlin: (Incredulous) Are you kidding? There's no way I can-

Arthur: First thing in the morning. (Leaves)

Merlin is left alone, noting how all the extra tasks within his duties for the next day seem to grow to exaggerated levels.

Time skip, in Gaius's Tower.

Merlin enters his room, his arms and legs feeling cramped from everything he's done since Arthur let him leave. Too tired, he casts a simple magic-blocking spell. His eyes glow gold, and as that happens, the baby teddy bear stops floating through the air and lands on the floor with some herbs and flowers.

Gaius: (enters) Good to see you all in one piece (with a caring tone) Tiring day?

Merlin: (with a tic in his eye) Tiring would be an understatement 🙃.

Gaius: I'd say it's always like this, but it's all because of the upcoming celebration.

Merlin: (bitterly) So the prince is such an idiot about the upcoming celebrations? (conjures) Daeft thaet (his eyes flash and the mess the baby's magic caused sorts itself out)

Gaius: (smacks him)

Merlin: Ow!

Gaius: What did I tell you about using magic like that? 😠

Merlin: If I could feel my arms, I would! 😠 I only have enough strength for this. (picks up his baby) How's the sweetest girl in the world? 😊 I hope you were good to Uncle Gaius!

Baby: 🥺 Boooo

Merlin: Oh! 😥 Is it because your teddy bear doesn't dance anymore? I'm so sorry, baby, but you can't do that kind of magic in here. (sniffs the diaper) Uh, looks like you're due for a change. (his eyes glow and a cloth diaper flies to him)

Gaius: If you want her not to use her magic lightly, you should set an example 😒. Especially because tomorrow-

Merlin: (ignores Gaiud while changing the baby's diaper) That's it, baby! 🤗 (picks her up again) Who pooped more solid poop today? You did, you did.

Baby: (happy babbling) 😄

Gaius: (sighs) Merlin, tomorrow-

Merlin: (still cuddling the baby) I know, tomorrow you'll be a good girl too, right, baby? Of course you will-

Gaius: (raises his voice) Merlin, tomorrow I won't be able to have the baby here!

Merlin: (turns to Gaius like a possessed doll) What? 🙂

Gaius: What I'm telling you, tomorrow there will be many injured. And all of them not only come to the medical tents after competing, but they also have to stay here if necessary.

Merlin: But that's terrible! 😣 Where will I and the baby rest? There's barely any room here! …. How am I going to hide the baby?! 😰

Baby: ☹️

Gaius: (seeing the baby getting nervous) Merlin-

Merlin: The servants already know about her, now the other knights will too-

Baby: 🥺

Gaius: Merlin-

Merlin: And they'll throw me out! And we won't be able to stay here-

Baby: 😢

Gaius: MERLIN!

Merlin: (shuts up)

Baby: (burst out crying and a couple of vials break) 😭

Gaius: Don't worry, I already have a plan. We'll take turns looking after the baby, and if anyone asks, we'll say she's the daughter of one of my patients from the citadel, like always. No one will suspect.

Merlin: 🫠 You could've started with that.

Gaius: And you could need some sleep.

Time skip. The next day at the armory.

Merlin: (enters with the baby in a baby sling, muttering) Taking care of a baby with uncontrolled magic while I have to attend to an arrogant prince of a sorcerer-hunting kingdom in a place full of sharp and pointed weapons. Nothing can go wrong with that idea, right? (yawns) I'm so sleepy.

Baby: (looks around curiously)

A hiss is heard.

Merlin: (turns to the sound) Hello? Is anyone there? (Shrugs and bends down to pick up Arthur's armor)

Baby: (close to Valiant's shield, makes graby hands to the drawing of snakes, delighted with the animals) 😃

In reaction to the baby's involuntary magic, the snakes emerge from the shield, hissing loudly.

Merlin: (frightened, screams and instinctively backs away, falling on his back and protecting the baby with his body) Ahhh! What the fuck! 😨 (When he looks back at the shield, the snakes are gone)

Valiant: (who entered a moment ago, draws his sword to threaten Merlin, believing himself exposed)

Merlin: (blinks, confused, and rubs his eyes) I really need to sleep. I'm starting to see things. (gets up)

Valiant: (lets out a sigh of relief and puts his sword away)

Baby: (scared, not by the snakes or the fall, but by Valiant's presence, bursts into tears) 🥺😭.

Merlin: (concerned, takes her out of the sling and rocks her) Oh, sorry, baby. Did I scare you? I'm sorry.

Valiant: You shouldn't be with a baby in here.

Merlin: (puts the baby back in the sling and gathers Arthur's armor, too tired and worried about the still-crying baby to worry about Valiant) Tell that to that idiot I have for master. (Yawns and leaves)

Valiant: …

Time skip. Merlin, still trying to calm the baby's crying, bumps into George in a corridor.

Merlin: (exalted, very quickly) She's the daughter of one of Gaius's patients!

George: (laughs softly) I didn't ask. But yes, I know, you've told everyone. Where are you going?

Merlin: I have to get Arthur ready for-

George: What?! 😨 You're going to attend to him with the baby?! Do you want him to kill you?

Merlin: (whines, stressed) I have no choice. Gaius is busy, and I have no one else to take care of her.

Baby: (cries louder) 😭 (the baby's magic flutters ornaments around)

Merlin: (panicked) No, no, no! Baby, please stop crying, please. (Almost on the verge of tears too)

George: (Pitying him) Let me take care of her. (Takes the baby)

Merlin: (Panics even more, afraid that George will notice the baby's magic, about to throw away Arthur's armor to take her back) No, wait!

George: (Recites a lullaby while rocking the baby; which means he doesn't sing, just says the lyrics in a monotone) Lullay, my liking, my dear son, my sweeting. Lullay, my dear heart, my own dear darling. Lullay, lullay, lullay. 😐

Baby: (Falls asleep as soon as George settles her in his arms) 😴. (And the decorations stop waving)

Merlin: …

Merlin: How did you do that?! 😱

George: (shrugs) I don't know, but I have five little brothers, and my mom always gave them to me when they cried a lot as babies, and when I talked to them, they fell asleep. I guess my voice calmed them.

Merlin: (thinking) I think it actually bored them… (says, very relieved) Thanks a lot, George! Keep her asleep and only wake her up to give her milk, okay? Gaius can tell you where he keeps the milk and when to give it to her. (starts to walk away briskly)

George: (calls out) After the fight, there's a shooting match. The prince almost never attends those, so you can rest.

Merlin: Thanks! (finishes leaving)

Time skip. In Arthur's chambers.

Merlin: (enters)

Arthur: You're late. 😒

Merlin: (tired voice) I know. (abruptly places the armor on the table)

Arthur: (scolding) Be careful with that!

Merlin: It's steel, it won't break. (lifts the chain mail) Raise your arms.

Arthur: You can't talk to me- 😠

Merlin: Your Royal Highness, please do me the honor of raising your arms. 🙄

Arthur: Better. (Raises his arms)

Merlin: (puts Arthur on his armor) Your helmet. (places the helmet on Arthur's arm)

Arthur: (looks at Merlin's work) At least you didn't forget anything this time. Let's go. (leaves)

Merlin: (follows, shuffling)

Time skip. After the match.

Merlin: (asleep in some hidden corner) 😴

Arthur: (finds him) There you are! Lazing around as usual 😡 (kicks him)

Merlin: (more asleep than awake, mutters) Yes, yes, I'll go give the baby some milk.

Arthur: What are you talking about? Get up! (kicks him again)

Merlin: (opens his eyes) Uhm… What happened?

Arthur: Asleep again? I need you to get me my bow and arrow, now!

Merlin: (confused, still stretching) What for?

Arthur: What do you mean, what for? To participate in the shooting competition!

Merlin: B-but… I thought you never-

Arthur: That's the rub. A good servant doesn't think, he obeys. What are you waiting for? Go! (kicks him again)

Merlin: Ow! Alright, alright I'm coming. (gets up reluctantly, thinking) He had to have urge to brag about his aim today of all days. 😓

And it turned out that the boastful prince not only wanted to participate in the shooting competition, but in all the day's activities. And Arthur, to not lose sight of his servant again, doesn't let Merlin leave his side. Merlin's eyelids are heavy, and his thighs are cramping from standing for too long. He's too tired.

Time skip. At the evening reception. All the competing knights (uninjured) are chatting happily.

Merlin: (with dark circles under his red eyes) Anything else you'd like, sire?

Arthur: (now out of his armor, cool as a cucumber) No, I don't think so. I'm already a bit tired. I think I'll have some rest.

Merlin: (his eye ticing) Really? You? Tired, sire?

Arthur: Yes, you may leave.

Merlin: (forces a polite smile) Thank you, my lord. (turns away)

Arthur: Oh, Merlin. I want-

Merlin: (turns to him and explodes, yelling) WHAT?! WHAT ELSE DOES YOUR GREATEST HIGHNESS WANT ME TO DO?! 😡 To undress you and tuck you in for bed?! To feed you in the mouth? To wipe your ass?! 😤

Knights around: (gasp) 😨😨😨😨😨😨

Arthur: (surprised Pikachu face) Uh… 😦

Merlin: For all the gods! Are you really so useless that you can't do anything by yourself? Can't you take care of yourself at all? Don't you have hands? I swear I've seen one-year-old babies and crippled men more self-sufficient than you! Merlin clean this, Merlin fetch that, Merlin hop on one foot and then do a somersault in the air! Leave me alone! I'm exhausted! I want to sleep! 😡(leaves, stomping)

Knights around: …

Arthur: …

Morgana: (holding back a laugh) I like him.

Time skip. In Gaius's Tower.

Merlin: (enters)

Gaius: (carrying the baby) Merlin! How could you leave the baby with- 😠

Merlin: (sharply) Not now. (smiles softly at the baby and kisses her forehead) Good night, baby. (goes to his room)

Gaius: Merlin! 😡

And Merlin falls dead onto his bed, not thinking about the consequences of his outburst… and which he would probably face the next day.

BASED ON THIS PROMPT >> PREVIOUS PART >> NEXT PART

...

UHHH! Merlin really messed up, didn't he? What do you think will happen to him?

Tagging @chaosofbelievers , @blackgigglypuff , @stressed-but-chill , @nocheaseforyougoodsir , @thedragonlies , @evedaser , @lolazoel , @sammythetoaster , @caraspud , @g00pygunkyguy , @bertoliosis35-blog , @purpuraffe , @lordemryspendragon , @herstarlight , @justaz , @myalchemicalgnomace , @haunted-glassesgurl , @exmintha , @dumbdemjin , @a-line-drawn , @itsjustmeandmyanxiety , @beebsnas , @rem-the-moth , @tmarauder101 , @whitemaskcd , @robynnemrys , @genyxie , @trubel43 , @andrealux21