#hurt lancelot

[adageyer]

Maybe, one day I will make a comic out of it, but until then, here is my note, my idea about this AU.

So what if Balinor wasn't killed. What if, Arthur and Merlin were separated on their quest to find him: Merlin and Balinor found their way back to Camelot on their own, and Merlin wasn't scared and less careful to use magic, to defend the both of them.

(Meanwhile Arthur being worried sick and tracking both of them back to Camelot, being convinced that Balinor kidnapped Merlin).

Merlin sneaks Balinor in, who then banishes Kilgharrah, but before they both fly off, Balinor and Merlin share a heartfelt hug, bidding their goodbyes and a promise to visit each other occasionally.

Merlin gets back to the castle, having forgotten that Arthur is still one of his responsibilities , where, one day later, Arthur surprises him at the foot of Merlins bed.

Arthur, reliefed of seeing Camelot freed form the dragons wrath (and to see Merlin sound asleep) shows this by bitchily waking Merlin with a "rise and shine"

Merlin slowly blinks awake, before he realizes it's Arthur, and jumps up. "Where have you been?" Merlin musters Arthur, who quite literally dragged all the mud and dirt into Merlins room.

"Oh! I don't know! In the woods?! ALONE?! Where the hell have YOU been Merlin?!" They stare at each other.

"I showed Balinor the way... We lost you,,, and I thought you'd want him as fast as possible in Camelot." Arthur is speechless, but snaps back "so you left me alone?!"

Merlin smiles daringly "What should I have done? I thought I'm just a servant?" Arthur stammers, before storming off "I am starving! And fetch water for a bath!", but Merlin understands.

Months go by, even whole seasons. The winter has come again. Merlin has frequently sneaked out to visit his father, who has been traveling on Kilgharrahs back. Balinor even occasionally sneaked in to visit Merlin and Gaius. Balinor has reconnected with Hunith as well, but she remains in Ealdor.

It isn't until he tries to visit Merlin, who is on the verge of death from some stupid quest Arthur dragged him on, that Balinor is discovered sneaking in. He is arrested on the spot, and given a hearing the next day.

Heavy lidded, Arthur forces himself to mask his turmoil, and faces Balinor. "What is it that brings you here, Balinor, last dragonlord." Balinor, made to kneel before Arthur, remains quiet. The King taps his throne, growing impatiant. "You have freed Camelot of the Great Dragon, for wich I will forever be in your debt. You are free, to leave Camelot and are to never return. That is all the kindness I can offer you."

Balinor gaze stays fixed on the tiles. As Arthur waves him off, signaling to guards to take him away, he speaks up, his voice booming through the throne room. "I am here to visit a friend."

"Whom?" Balinor hesitates for a moment, "Gaius."

Gaius straightens up as Arthur looks at him "Is this true? Is he an old friend of yours?"

"Yes, we were close friends," Gaius confirms, and adds shortly after: "before the purge."

Arthur sits there for a moment, unrest rising in the throne room as he ponders what to do next. "What prompted your visit, Balinor?"

Again, Balinor waits a moment "I heard his ward is injured, I came to offer my help."

Arthur, now suddenly more awake, frowns. His eyes dart to his knights, Gwaine, Lancelot, Leon, who all are more alert now. "Surely you must know, as the court physician, Gaius is more than well equipped to deal with such a simple wound."

"And yet Merlin remains half-dead." Balinor offered an apologetic gaze towards Gaius, but then looked on. Finally, he faced Arthur."If only it were a simple wound. Magic has wounded him. It takes magic to heal him."

Arthur decidess; Balinor is permitted to use the arts of the old religion to save Merlin, but only under Arthurs surveillance. Stating clearly, that if he failed, he would face execution.

They trail behind Balinor and Gaius, who exchange hushed words as they walk down the corridors. Arthur decides to take Lancelot and Leon with him, to Gwaine's dismay.

In the chambers, Gaius and Balinor share a routine; they work together smoothly. Balinor pulls out weeds and flowers out of his pouch, Arthur follows them with his eyes, worried.

What if they are poisonous?

He hands them to Gaius, who promptly works them into a rather chunky mush. Balinor takes it back, sitting himself next to the candles on Gaius' workbench. For a moment everything stilled, even the fire did not dare crackle as Balinor concentrated. He whispered words, none of them could decipher, as he held his hand over the bowl. He stood up, promptly going to Merlins room. The knights hurried behind him.

It wasn't lost on Arthur dad Balinor knew exactly where to go.

Merlin lay sweating, Gwen by his side. She tried to cool him down with a rag drenched in water. She stood up, placing herself between Merlin and the raggedy stranger "Who are you?". Balinor went past her and sat down on the stool she had used just prior.

Everyone walked into Merlins room, Arthur noted that it was to small for all of them.

That needed to be changed.

Gaius took Gwen by the arm "He's a friend, here to help Merlin." and let her go. She goes out the door, turning around one last time and catches Lancelots gaze. He nods reasuringly and she closes the door.

Meawhile Balinor worked on taking off Merlins bandages, tossing them to the side, and embalming Merlins wound. It was a nasty wound. A slash across his chest, torn and suppurating. Thankfully, it didn't need stitches. Yet the gash has swollen quite a bit since the last time Arthur saw it, and he winced. Balinor worked the mush around the gash and lastly came to work it into the wound itself. Merlin huffed and winced.

Balinor leans back and Merlin calms, so does everyone else in the room. For a moment they stand there, the kights hands still on the stilts of their sword, anticipating Merlin to bolt back to life.

But he doesn't. "What have you done to him? Why isn't he waking up?" Arthur glares at the back of Balinors skull. "I have treated the wound," Balinor spoke calmly, "he has yet to recover."

The knights linger, it is starting to become uncomfortable, what are they going to do next? Stand there and wait for Merlin to recover? Yes. That is exactly what Arthur is planning on doing.

He walks out of Merlins room, into Gaius' work-chamber and drags back a chair. He places it on other side of Merlins bed, he has to be on the left, but also opposite to Balinor.

[v10l3tz-thmblr]

Slow dance with you.

Now this is crazy with no heterosexual explanation. Told yall this would be my fruitiest art 😩

Oh and I think Espio should run !

[evadne01]

Merlin Masterlist Part 2

You can't always threaten nobles!

Merlin tries to advise Arthur. Arthur, as usual, misunderstands.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

This is not what I meant

Arthur carries out his plan. Merlin is not impressed

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

What do you mean you are my servant?

Every noble needs his servant. Merlin isn't happy about it.

George & Merlin

No, this is enough!

Arthur has another idea. Merlin is very tired about this.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

You see? Stupid wounds

Arthur needs to be healed. Merlin turns out to be an extremely competent physician.

Arthur is impressed. And he has an idea.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

Desperate attempt

Arthur finds his servant missing. Agravaine reflects on his actions.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Knights of the Round Table & Arthur Pendragon, Gwen & Arthur Pendragon, Agravaine & Morgana

Discovering new sides of ourselves

Merlin's magic has its own mind.

What you did to Agravaine?... Sorry, Steven?

Merlin and Morgana. The Knoghts, Arthur, Merlin and Morgana.

Merlin & Morgana, Merlin & The Knights of the Round Table, Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

You don't have to be afraid anymore

Arthur makes a decision after saving Merlin and finding his sister.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Gwen/Morgana

King and king

Arthur has his latest idea. This time Merlin has nothing against it.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

Secret Stalker

Merlin has a secret stalker. No matter that his two best friends told him it is a secret admirer. He knows the difference.

Gwen & Merlin, Lancelot & Merlin, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon, Gwen/Lancelot

Till next time, my brave honeysuckle

Gwaine episode from Merlin's and Gwaine's pov

Gwaine/Merlin

Where are you? ~ Please, don't leave me

Arthur discovers that his servant has not come to wake him and, at dawn, runs throughout the castle looking for him.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

Why I hate hunting

During a hunt, the knights and Merlin are stuck in a cave and must say the thing that weighs most on their minds.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Merlin & The Knights of the Round Table, The Knights of the Round Table & Arthur Pendragon

Sweet persuasion

In his attempt to keep Arthur safe, Merlin uses Gwen's advice: sweet persuasion.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Gwen & Merlin

The knight and the king

A deleted scene in A Servant of No Master. Arthur and Gwaine look for Merlin

Gwaine/Merlin, Merlin&Arthur Pendragon

I thought I knew you

After Gaius exposed Merlin as a sorcerer, Arthur needs to talk with him.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

I can show you incredible things

Post-magic reveal, Arthur learns about Merlin's magic and their relationship suffers.

Both of them are scared and sad.

This until during a hunt, Merlin saves Arthur from a spell and becomes his kid self.

How will Arthur react to his friend's (or something more?) fear?

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

Drylic and scamu

Merlin and Lancelot deleted scene in the Darkest hour.

Merlin talks about his magic, and Lancelot sees him

Lancelot & Merlin

Protecting the youngest

After Merlin is fired and Cedric takes his place, the servants and Morgana has something to say.

Gwen & Merlin, Merlin & Morgana, Servants & Merlin, Morgana & Arthur Pendragon

How it should have gone

But that was not their destiny, and Arianrhod decided to give them a new one.

What do you do when you have a second chance to fix everything? Trust your friends

Gwen & Merlin, Lancelot & Merlin, Knights of the Round Table & Merlin, Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

My most loyal friend

After reclaiming Camelot from Morgana, Arthur rewards his most loyal friend.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

You were supposed to be dead

After the Veil, Merlin finds an old friend. The only problem: he shouldn't be alive.

Merlin is happy, the knights curios and Arthur just tired.

Merlin & Will, Knights of the Round Table & Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

Clover and Confessions

In the midst of a hunting trip, Merlin and the Knights of the Round Table embark on a quest to find healing herbs for Merlin's toothache.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

Forged Allegiance

Lancelot and Merlin talk. And then, they find the Round Table.

It's the start of a new Era

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Lancelot & Merlin

What kind of love do you have? 

The love life of Gwen and Merlin.

Or: the two servants that made fall in love the most powerful people in Camelot

Gwen/Morgana, Gwen & Merlin & Morgana, Knights of the Round Table/Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

Flowers and Jealousy 

Merlin's gestures of affection towards Morgana are too dangerous for the servant. Arthur is not jealous, at all.

Even if he is trying to kill the other one with his eyes.

Merlin & Morgana, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

A broken bond

Merlin was rejected another time by one of his soulmates.

Arthur wants to help his friend.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Gwen/Arthur Pendragon, Gwen & Merlin, Knights/Merlin

Destiny could change, our nature never 

Merlyn had believed the Great Dragon when he told her that it was her destiny to protect Arthur Pendragon.

She had believed him when he said they were two halves of one whole, that they couldn't be separated.

She had believed him when he told her that they shared a great and splendid destiny together, the golden age.

But how could she believe him, now that he was telling her that she should let a child die for words spoken in fear?

How could she believe him?

Merlyn had to choose: betray the fate they predicted for her and Arthur, or betray herself?

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Merlin & Morgana, Gwen & Merlin, Gwen & Merlin & Morgana & Arthur Pendragon, Merlin & Mordred, Merlin & Will, Hunith & Merlin, Balinor/Hunith, Gaius & Merlin, Druids & Merlin, Lancelot & Merlin, Knights of the Round Table & Merlin, Gwaine & Merlin, Merlin & Mithian, Freya/Merlin, Freya & Merlin, Elena & Merlin, Gaius & Hunith, Balinor & Gaius

Fake nobles and revelations

"Oh, no, just strange." Percival shrugged. "There were these girls with very thick and sturdy leather strips and they were like taking measurements?"

Leon blinked. "What do girls need leather strips for?"

Merlin's sudden laughter drew their attention.

"Something amusing, Merlin?" Arthur called him out.

"They're binders." Merlin said, amidst laughter. "They're used to bind their chest."

Knights of the Round Table & Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

How can you not be attracted to me? 

Arthur finds out that Merlin is attracted to men and women.

This isn't a problem, no. The problem is that Merlin isn't attracted to Arthur!

Gwen & Merlin, Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Knights of the Round Table & Merlin, Knights of the Round Table & Arthur Pendragon, Gwaine/Merlin

A lovely kitten

Merlin is turned into a cat.

Morgana is amused, Arthur and the Knights are in love with him.

Merlin is so done.

Gwen/Morgana, Gwen & Merlin & Morgana, Knights of the Round Table/Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

In a Land of Soulmates

Soulmates AU!

During the Great Purge, Uther Pendragon banished every type of magic, with the only exception of the one shared to all the crown, every crown of every kindom: SoulMate's mark, the one who would have always had your back, something more than a brother, more than a companion. And it doesn't imply romance, but only a strong loyalty and solidariety between the two people.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Gwaine/Merlin, Lancelot/Merlin, Lancelot & Merlin, Knights of the Round Table & Merlin, Knights of the Round Table & Arthur Pendragon, Gwen & Merlin, Merlin & Morgana, Leon & Merlin, Elyan & Merlin, Merlin & Percival, Balinor/Hunith, Ygraine de Bois/Uther Pendragon

"You and me, love, what do you say?" 

Merlin and Arthur are the heir of the two rival families.

Will they find love? Or will they follow their parents' steps?

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

I'm about to blow ~your mind~ 

Arthur is cursed to 'open his mind'.

The only problem: his mind is open towards his manservant.

Who has a lot of imagination.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon, Gaius & Merlin, Gaius & Arthur Pendragon

The fear of losing a friend can often be greater than the fear itself.

Arthur and Merlin talks.

Freya makes them a gift

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

The Omega and the Alpha 

"So, my lady," Merlin leaned in, under the guise of fixing her dress, "shall we overthrow the king together?"

Morgana's eyes sparkled. "Why, Merlin, I thought you'd never ask."

Merlin & Morgana, Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Morgana & Arthur Pendragon

Love is in the air (or maybe, it's just jazz)

Jazz bar, Merlin is approached by the most attractive man he ever saw.

This is the story

Gwaine/Merlin

Guardians of Honor 

In a time of war and magic, Lionel, a knight of Camelot, finds himself indebted to a mysterious young boy named Merlin, whose unexpected display of magic saves his life.

Determined to protect Merlin from the dangers of a kingdom where magic is outlawed, Lionel and his wife, Jaelle, take the boy into their home.

As they navigate the complexities of loyalty, duty, and love, they must keep Merlin's true identity hidden while facing the looming threat of war.

Leon & Merlin, Leon & Leon's Mother, Leon & Leon's Father, Merlin & Leon's Father, Merlin & Leon's Mother, Druids & Merlin

Guardian Angel 

Not everyone is lucky enough to know their guardian angel.

Arthur and the Knights are

Knights of the Round Table & Merlin, Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

Thank you 

Some king isn't happy with Merlin, but at least he has friends he could rely on.

Merlin & Morgana, Knights of the Round Table & Merlin, Gwen & Merlin, Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Gwaine/Merlin

How to judge a man 

Pre-Canon, a moment between Merlin and his mother Hunith

Hunith & Merlin

There was an idea

Before Merlin could change his mind, he went to his dating app, and changed his bio.

Looking for someone to take to couples therapy and see how long it takes for the therapist to notice we don't know each other

Glad to have a plan for later, Merlin happily went back to studying.

Freya & Merlin & Will, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

Past enemy and current pains 

Gwaine meets someone from his past. Fortunately, he isn't the same person anymore

Gwaine & Knights of the Round Table, Gwaine & Merlin, Gwaine & Arthur Pendragon

Orders, curly hair and fake nobles ~ how Leon and Gwaine met

The Knights learn how Leon and Gwaine first met.

Gwaine is still insulted for that meeting

Gwaine & Merlin, Knights of the Round Table Friendship

A gift and a lady ~ how Gwen and Morgana met

Gwen and Morgana first meeting

Gwen & Morgana

In the shadows of the sorcerer

What if Cornelius Sigan doesn't disappear in one night? What if Kilgharrah doesn't know what the spell is going really going to do?

What if Merlin gets more help?

Yes, what if?

Gaius & Merlin, Kilgharrah & Merlin, Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

(Are you sure you) Love Me ((say you) Love Me Remix) 

Merlin still can’t really believe Arthur wants to marry him, or that he loves him.

Probably, is Arthur's fault anyway

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

Do you remember the first time I kissed you?

Arthur and Merlin's first and last kiss

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

The king of my heart 

Gwaine and Merlin share a sweet moment

Gwaine/Merlin

Living up their expectations 

Merlin and Arthur talk about thei desire and need to make their fathers proud.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

Maybe the next time

Merlin was really starting to hate that shirt.

Usually, he only wore the red shirt on special occasions. Like the first day of a new season, or when it was someone dear's birthday, or when Gaius took him to do something for the first time.

Now, after wearing the red shirt thirteen times in a row, he hated it.

Lancelot & Merlin, Lancelot/Merlin

Do you like my accent? 

Merlin, the Knights and Arthur spend some time together

Gwen/Morgana, Knights of the Round Table/Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

Emrys and the three Queens

Arthur overhear Merlin's conversation with Agravaine.

Things change.

Merlin & Morgana

I like when you protect me 

Well, Merlin had been warned.

Indirectly, from the protective glances of the Knights.

Directly, from Morgana and Gwen's comments.

Now, he could only try to limit the damage.

Gwaine/Merlin, Knights of the Round Table & Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Gwen/Morgana

Never alone again 

Gwaine realised that Merlin was hiding something.

And in a panic, Merlin denied it and hid behind more lies.

How could their relationship be based on lies?

Gwaine/Merlin, Gwen & Merlin

No. I have magic. 

A magic reveal with a twist.

Gwaine/Merlin, Knights of the Round Table & Merlin, Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

I will always protect Merlin

Gwaine decides to reveal his heritage to Uther

Gwaine/Merlin

This isn't the proper purpose!

Gwaine manages to transform the purpose of one method of communication into another. Which is absolutely not the correct one.

Merlin begins to doubt his own choices (as well as Gwen's)

Gwaine/Merlin, Gwen/Arthur Pendragon

The Seneschal of the King 

Merlin and his new role as the seneschal of Arthur

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

“What do you have there?”

Merlin adopts a pet and Morgana is not okay with that

Merlin & Morgana

Guilt and Redemption

Finally, after some delays, King Balinor had managed to conquer Camelot, and to demand his revenge for Uther's bloodthirsty pursuit of magic and all its believers.

Uther Pendragon was dead, and with him, the Purge was over.

Gwaine & Lancelot & Merlin, Gwaine & Lancelot & Percival, Balinor/Hunith, Balinor & Hunith & Merlin, Merlin & Nimueh, Gwen & Morgana, Morgana & Arthur Pendragon

Letters from a friend

A collection of all the letters between Merlin and Lancelot

Lancelot & Merlin

Fatal Unions 

Merlin and Arthur marry after knowing each other for only a few weeks, shortly after Merlin starts working at Arthur's company and receives one promotion after another.

But is there more behind this marriage?

Lancelot & Merlin, Gwaine & Merlin, Gwen & Merlin, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon, Leon & Arthur Pendragon

Changing Destinies 

For destiny was not engraved in wrought iron.

And Arianrhod had no intention of making her youngest son suffer again.

A whisper, accompanied by a sweet smile and the boy would have been deaf to attempts to evoke distrust and fear in his destiny.

One answered prayer and the boy would never again lose his good heart or doubt his friends.

They would all get a second chance.

Gwaine/Lancelot/Merlin, Gwen/Arthur Pendragon

Echoes of Magic and Nature 

After the lands of Camelot lose their life, it seems that hope for the kingdom is lost for good.

That is until Prince Arthur decides that he would save his people.

But he will not make this journey alone. He will have allies, even in the most unthinkable places.

After all, to heal the wounds made by an impure heart, it is needed the purest of them all.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

Why would I lie when I can tell you the truth? 

Merlin tries to figure out how many people he can admit to having magic without getting caught.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

This is my favourite cute little cat ~ okay, it's a bastet

Merlin finds a cute little kitten.

Very very huge, with wings.

Okay, maybe it isn't a kitten, but Merlin likes it.

Merlin & Morgana, Freya & Merlin

Please, he's an Alpha!

Merlin is amazed by the new Alpha, and Arthur isn't happy

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

I just met you

Arthur and Merlin first meeting.

Or: How Arthur fell in love with Merlin

Freya & Merlin & Will, Morgana & Arthur Pendragon

They lived happily and gay ever after

Youtuber Merlin makes his edits on videos.

It follows a discussion about couples in series.

Gwen/Lancelot, Gwen & Merlin, Gwaine & Gwen, Freya & Merlin & Will, Lancelot & Merlin, Gwaine & Merlin

The hunters and the preys

Merlin is been sold by his older brother to the slaves.

This is how he'll escape them

Merlin (Merlin) & Original Female Character

Jealousy, jealosy

Arthur and the knights are jealous of their Omega

Gwen & Merlin & Morgana, Knights of the Round Table & Merlin, Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

The Value of a King

Merlin had been given a choice.

Admitting the truth about what Morgause had said, admitting that Uther was indeed responsible for the Purge and Ygraine's death would have meant freedom for Merlin and for all those who had magic.

But Arthur would suffer.

Lying about the truth, lying about what Uther had done, once again covering the king from the consequences of his own actions… it would have spared Arthur the pain of losing another parent. It would save Uther, a man who had never had compassion for anything or anyone, once again.

It would make Arthur hate magic once and for all.

Make Arthur hate Merlin, the profound nature of what Merlin was, forever.

Gwen & Merlin & Morgana & Arthur Pendragon

The vigilante of Camelot

There is a scoundrel who kills nobles who threaten Arthur, leaves evidence of their guilt in the room and offends Uther every time

Merlin & Morgana

Simply splendid

One of the most important rules that Leon had passed on to Arthur was to be as ready as possible in every possible situation.

Being a prince was a great responsibility, he had said, and always being ready for any occasion was Arthur’s sacred duty as protector of the kingdom and its citizens.

Or:

Arthur tries to test his knights, and instead he starts following his servant around

I'll be worthy of your trust

Arthur had always thought that using magic was for the wicked and weak.

His father had thought so, and Morgana had shown herself capable of anger and violence like few other enemies had ever been.

Arthur couldn't believe that he too was a sorcerer.

Taking care of each other

five times Merlin heals one of the knights + once all of them heal him.

Merlin & Knights of the Round Table

Princess Elena of Gawant

“I had a Sidhe.” Elena murmured. “I was possessed by a Sidhe.”

Merlin nodded. “I'm sorry it took me so long to understand this.”

Elena/Merlin

The Curse of Camelot

Narrator:

"In Camelot, where peace once reigned,

Now a dark shadow has remained.

In the heart of the castle, something's astray,

An ancient presence that won't fade away.

No one was ready for this fateful night,

And no one will ever be, despite their might."

“Promise me you won't look back.”

“Promise me you won't look back.” Arthur said, speaking through the fog.

Merlin swallowed. “You can't ask me that.”

“Merlin, promise me.”

Merlin didn't answer, unable to utter those simple words.

How to fix a bad day

Merlin sighed, casting a longing glance at his refuge for the night.

Going on patrol was always painful, not because of the hours spent on horseback (which didn't help anyway, as it was necessary to maintain a rigid and constant position for a long time), but because of the work Merlin had to do afterwards, while the knights rested.

What happened?

Merlin finds himself in a very different Camelot.

Or: Merlin of season 1 finds himself in late season 4.

Keep it safe

“If the sigil is a proposal, then what does the ring mean?” he asked, his voice dropping to a whisper.  

 

“The ring itself? Nothing,” Arthur reassured him, leaning closer as if drawn by Merlin’s quiet tone. “But that ring, given by me? It means I’m offering you the most fragile, vulnerable part of myself and asking you to keep it safe.”  

Converting a Non-Believer

Merlin knew Arthur was a sports enthusiast.

He had held out hope for him because of the role-playing game Arthur had joined—a sign that he couldn’t be entirely lost to the better ways of life.

Surely, it meant something that he was part of such a profoundly nerdy game.

Arthur could be saved; Merlin was certain of it.

Unfortunately, Arthur seemed allergic to everything Merlin loved.

All the things I do for you

Merlin and Morgana come up with a plan to protect Arthur from the killer of the week

True Love

It was a special kind of torture, Merlin decided, having Freya there. Trapped in a corner of his mind, unable to communicate with the real world, with no hope of escape.

He would never be able to tell Gaius that the cure was impossible to find.

Merlin’s true love was sitting right next to him, long since dead.

Three Hearts at Twilight

The Central Government had long decreed that love was an inefficient distraction, allowing only authorised unions for controlled reproduction. Every emotion was regulated, every desire smothered in the name of perfect order.

Everywhere, screens broadcast the same propaganda: the world as it was now was the triumph of the Golden Age, an era of peace and perfection achieved after the chaos of the past.

In official speeches, the Central Government, through the voice of Morgause—a woman as insipid as she was heartless—claimed to have restored humanity to its original purity, just as the gods had always intended.

Dinner party 

Geoffrey sighed.

There were a lot of people in the room when Uther Pendragon got killed.

There were his relatives, starting with his son, Arthur, his daughter, Morgana, and the two brothers of his wife, Agravaine and Tristan.

There were also Gaius, an old friend of Uther, and his nephew Merlin, who was also the nurse of the old man.

And Gwen, a friend of Morgana, as well as Nimueh and Morgause, the two sisters from mother’s side of Morgana.

A lot of people had a reason to kill Uther.

Do you regret choosing this pill?

“So, you are new here, is that correct?”

Gwaine looked around, frowning when he realised he was in some strange place.

“Someone named L brought me here.” Gwaine muttered. “Is it normal?”

The agent raised one eyebrow. “What is normal?”

“Calling people with the first letter of the name, instead of using the whole name.” Gwaine answered. “Isn't that extremely stupid?”

As Good as we can get it

The banquet at Camelot had been what one might call a true triumph.

For everyone except Arthur.

He had endured an endless string of toasts, insincere smiles, and ill-judged remarks about his impending coronation.

Feel like home

Soulmates identifying marks AU -

Arthur grew up with parents who loved each other, Merlin's were a disaster. Both of their parents are soulmates, but while Arthur idolizes and wants to find his soulmate, Merlin rejects the very idea of that.

A man pure in heart

Anhora breathed out, his gaze resting on the son who was fading away. Another of his pure-hearted creatures disappearing because of glory and hatred, because of ignorance and deceit.

His eyes then shifted to the boy who had held, cradled, the head of Anhora’s son, Estel, in his hands.

“I’m so sorry,” he was whispering, “I’m so very sorry.”

Anhora allowed a faint smile to disturb his solemn expression, a glimmer of light in the grim darkness.

At least, he thought, someone who still cared did exist.

“Arthur Pendragon,” Anhora spoke to the soul of the hunter who had just arrived, a look of pride of the kill he had just made, killing an innocent with his actions, “the judgment of your heart has only just begun.”

We’ll see what kind of friend you are, he thought, vanishing as the boy’s blue gaze found him.

Back to General Masterlist

[overlyspecific]

Part 8 of Merlin Hood AU

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6, Part 7, Part 9, Part 10, Part 11, Part 12

The room is dark, lit only by a sliver of sun peaking through a hole in the wall when Merlin comes too. A breeze through the dark dank cave causes Merlin to shutter. His wrists ache from being chained in cold iron above his head and the sound of water dripping echoing through the chamber pulls a sorrowful longing sound from Merlin’s scratchy throat.

Merlin: *whispering to himself* Well this couldnt get any worse…

Merlin looks quickly around him for the witchfinder to approach. From Merlin’s experience they usually can’t resist the urge to say something witty like ‘Oh, but it can’ or ‘I was hoping you would say that.’ If Gwaine was there they’d probably bet on which one it would be. Man, he missed Gwaine and Lancelot and Gwen and Arthur. Wait, Arthur! He was in the woods and he was looking for Merlin! Merlin smiled to himself sadly, it was nice to have people who cared about him…even if one of them was a clotpole.

The Witchfinder (Aredian): Oh my boy, there’s nothing to smile about.

Merlin: *sighing* I liked my options better. Why are we even here? Don’t you just want to deliver me to the king and get paid?

Aredian: But wheres the fun in that? Besides the king has some questions for you that he knows I can get answers for.

Merlin: If its about how I manage to look this good when I’ve been living in a forest for years, the answer manages to escape me too.

A bucket of cold water is thrown at Merlin, irritating his wounds. Merlin typically doesnt like the idea of killing anyone, but for Aredian he could make an exception. A small bit of magic sparks itself in Merlin’s abdomen, comforting him before diminishing once again. Merlin groans it frustration.

Aredian: What? No more quips? Did I get the fearsome Merlin to finally shut his trap?

Merlin: *gritting through his teeth* Not likely.

Aredian throws his head back in a laugh and Merlin watches as he brandishes a dagger.

Aredian: Good. The fun is just beginning.

Meanwhile, Lancelot, Gwen and Gwaine are thinking of plans to rescue Merlin at the hideout.

Gwaine: All I’m saying is if you have enough chickens-

Lancelot and Gwen: *monotone because they have heard Gwaine pitch this four times now* -they make for a good diversion.

Gwaine pouts a bit.

Lancelot: Gwaine, we don’t even know where they took him. Merlin has made it pretty clear that he can break out of almost every dungeon and cell they keep him in so I doubt they’ve taken him to the castle.

Gwen: Plus, if he was at the castle, the king would be showing him off to everyone as an example and we haven’t heard anything like that yet.

Lancelot: Gwen, why don’t I escourt you back to the castle so you can try to gather more information. Gwaine can scavenge the woods for anywhere they might be keeping Merlin.

Gwen takes off in the direction of the castle leaving Lancelot with Gwaine for a moment.

Lancelot: We’ve been through these woods a thousand times, there’s only a few places that he could be hidden.

Gwaine: Right. I’ll scavenge the areas and you can send word if Gwen hears anything.

Lancelot: Be careful, Gwaine.

Gwaine: *smirking* When am I not?

Gwaine takes off in the other direction and Lancelot sighs. He really needs more friends that don’t attract trouble like it’s their job. But they are all he’s got and he’ll do anything for them. After a moment, Lancelot takes off after Gwen.

In another area of the forest, Arthur wakes up to in a bed of flowers. The sun is shining high above his head and his chainmail is laid out against the grass next to him, leaving him in his tunic and breeches. Birds are chirping near by and Arthur rubs at his eyes. He feels at peace, but something is wrong. He was supposed to do something or be somewhere. He knows it.

Rustling in a bush catches Arthur’s attention and he gets up quickly to draw his sword. A hooded figure approaches Arthur and raises out their hand.

Hooded figure: Arthur Pendragon.

Arthur: Who are you? Where is this place?

Hooded figure: I have many names but for our purposes you can call me Pirerymus.

Arthur: Pyramus? Like the tragic love story?

Pirerymus: *softly chuckles* No, but it this case it might work just as well. As for your where you are, I’m surprised you don’t recognize this place. It means a lot for your future and your destiny. Tell me, what does it feel like to you.

Arthur: Peaceful, warm, protecting. It feels sort of like it’s watching over me, like if I fell asleep again right here I would safe.

Pirerymus: and when have you felt that before?

Arthur thinks back and has a hard time placing it. He feels safe at Camelot but he’s always a little on edge waiting for the next person to try to kill him or for his father’s disapproving words. The only time he has really felt at ease is when he is with…

Arthur: Merlin.

Pirerymus: He’s your protector and your destiny, but the same applies to you. You must protect him as well.

Arthur: How am I supposed to protect the most powerful sorceror ever? What can I do that he can’t?

Pirerymus: He may be very powerful but he is not a warrior. Not like you.

Arthur: Well, I don’t know how much good that’s going to do now. I don’t even know where he is and I still don’t know where I am or how it connects to our destiny.

Pirerymus: Oh, but you do. He told you exactly where he was.

Arthur: The light.

Pirerymus: Yes. You need to learn how to understand what he is telling you, otherwise you two will never unite the land and bring about the golden age of Albion.

Arthur: I don’t have time for this. He’s in trouble.

Pirerymus: Emrys’s own well-being is not my main concern. You will find in time that he can handle a lot. However, if he loses control the safety of everyone and everything around him is at risk.

Arthur: Merlin would never hurt anyone.

Pirerymus: That may be the case, but if any outside forces got control of even a sliver of his true power they could do a great deal of damage.

Arthur: So, I’m supposed to keep people from stealing his magic?

Pirerymus: You are to protect him when he cannot protect himself just as he does for you. But you will need to work together this to work. Emrys has already opened up to you. Now, you must do the same. Follow me.

Pirerymus leads Arthur through the wildflowers until they get to a small lake and they stop at the water’s edge.

Pirerymus: Tell me, Arthur, what do you feel now?

Arthur: *pauses for a moment to take in his surroundings* There’s something in there. Something calling to me.

Pirerymus: Yes, I would guess so. After all, it was made for you.

Arthur looks back to the field of flowers. Most wildflowers have a cacophony of colors, but Arthur only sees here a very harmonious blue and golden yellow. Arthur closes his eyes for a minute and the calling from the lake grows. He wades into the lake.

[gettingthisoverwith]

You before me Fandom: Merlin (TV) Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Knights of the Round Table & Merlin (Merlin), Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin & Percival (Merlin) Characters: Merlin (Merlin), Lancelot (Merlin), Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Percival (Merlin) Additional Tags: Whump, Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Merlin's Magic Revealed (Merlin), Febuwhump 2025, Day 20, i did good right?, Unconsciousness, Merlin Whump (Merlin), Self-Sacrifice, Self-Sacrificing Merlin (Merlin) Series: Part 20 of Febuwhump 2025 Summary: Merlin saves the lives of Arthur and the knights at the cost of revealing his magic

[evadne01]

Merlin Masterlist part 1

New body and new boyfriend 

Trans-Gwaine and doctor!Lancelot

When you follow friend's advice and you got a boyfriend in the meantime.

Gwaine/Lancelot, Gwaine & Merlin

Friends like this

Unith's decision to send her son to Camelot wasn't easy.

Both for the magic of his son, magic forbidden in Uther's kingdom, and for her fear of sending him in a context too different from Ealdor.

Despite her fears, she had forgotten about Merlin's talent for making friends wherever he went.

Or:

Every time Merlin made a positive impact on someone and made a new friend.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen & Merlin (Merlin), Gwaine & Merlin (Merlin), Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin & Percival (Merlin), Leon & Merlin (Merlin), Elyan & Merlin (Merlin), Knights of the Round Table & Merlin (Merlin)

YOU ARE MY POISON AND MY SALVATION 

Gwaine always looked for a home.

When he find one, he also find love.

If only Merlin loved him back

Gwaine/Merlin (Merlin), Gwaine & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen & Merlin (Merlin), Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin), Gwen/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

sometimes you just need a little help

Merlin is wounded.

Gaius takes care of him

Gaius & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen & Merlin (Merlin)

Losing away from you 

The guilt was too much for Merlin.

His magic was revealed and he ran away.

Arthur can't lose his best friend

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwaine/Merlin (Merlin), Gwen/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Balinor & Merlin (Merlin)

Look at me ~ i burn when you look at anyone else 

Gwaine isn't a jealous person.

Until he saw Merlin and Lancelot.

Gwaine/Merlin (Merlin), Gwen/Lancelot (Merlin), Gwen/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

Don't look back, it will be better ahead

Arthur and Merlin took a trip to Ealdor

Arthur learned something about Merlin's past

Arthur is not happy about it

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Hunith & Merlin (Merlin), Balinor/Hunith (Merlin), Hunith & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

Don't tell anyone ~ I'm still the same 

During a journey, The knights and Arthur found out something about Merlin.

The servant is surprise how they behave.

Gwaine/Merlin (Merlin), Knights of the Round Table & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwaine & Merlin (Merlin), Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin)

Always listen to the physician ~ especially if it's your boyfriend 

Gwaine was hurt by bees.

Merlin took care of him.

Fluff!

Gwaine/Merlin (Merlin), Knights of the Round Table & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

Turn off the electricity and turn on life

On November 9, 1965 in New York, there was a blackout for 12 hours

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwaine & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin), Gwaine & Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin), Gwen & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

Shine with a bright 

Merlin hated patrols and hunting.

The knights and Arthur have a surprise for him.

They will be very surprised by something he said

Knights of the Round Table & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

Feel like home

Merlin is hurt.

Merlin is surprise to be take care of.

Merlin shouldn't be surprised.

Gwen & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gaius & Merlin (Merlin)

I am your king ~ bring me to my knees for you

Arthur sometimes just doesn' t want to be king.

Arthur decides to ask Merlin for a big favor.

Merlin accepts and maybe he likes a little too much to see Arthur desperate for him.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

There are many things you don't know about me

Merlin laughed at a nobleman during a training.

The knights couldn't believe what they saw after that.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Knights of the Round Table & Merlin (Merlin)

It's not your fault

Camelot was take back from Morgana and Morgause.

Merlin and Lancelot talk

Lancelot/Merlin (Merlin), Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin)

No lies, just me and you 

How could he sentence his king to death by advising him to save his prophesied killer?

How could he once again condemn magic in the eyes of his friend, when Arthur already believed that to be the cause of his mother's and father's deaths and his sister's corruption?

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

Don't play with your food 

Merlin and Gwaine have some time alone.

Gwaine/Merlin

Don't look at me. I'm a disaster

Merlin has always had problems accepting himself.

Until he does

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin), Gwaine & Merlin (Merlin), Hunith & Merlin (Merlin)

A puppet in your hands 

Morgana kidnapped Merlin and controlled him.

What will happen to the future of Camelot?

Merlin/Morgana (Merlin), Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Merlin & Mordred & Morgana (Merlin), Knights of the Round Table & Merlin (Merlin)

I am on fire for you

Merlin finds a room for potions making.

Lancelot helps him.

Lancelot/Merlin

I believe you

Why did Gwaine look for Merlin, when he was searching any clues for finding Gaius?

This is the scene we were robbed of.

Gaius & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwaine & Merlin (Merlin), Gaius & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Agravaine & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

A day together 

Gwaine and Merlin enjoy some time alone.

Gwaine/Merlin

If you love me let me hear you 

Merlin has a problem with notes.

Arthur has a problem.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

Becoming Melody

Merlin is tired for all the jokes the knights made about him

Morgana had a simple solution

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwaine/Merlin (Merlin), Lancelot/Merlin (Merlin), Leon/Merlin (Merlin), Merlin/Percival (Merlin), Gwen & Merlin & Morgana (Merlin)

The secret in the shadows

Merlin, while Uther is too sick and his servant busy with him, has to become the chamberlain and takes care of everything.

When the stress is too much, Lancelot is there for him.

Lancelot/Merlin

Please, be careful

Lancelot was never afraid for Merlin.

This was true till they discovered that the Dorocha couldn't be damaged by Merlin's magic.

Lancelot/Merlin (Merlin), Knights & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Knights of the Round Table & Merlin (Merlin)

If you don't fight for your love, what kind of love do you have? 

Gwaine helped Merlin and Lancelot.

By locking them in the armory.

Lancelot/Merlin

You had one job!

Merlin and Lancelot are lost in the woods.

Lancelot/Merlin

I see the real you

Collecting herbs should be safe.

If only bandits would stop trying to rob him!

Lancelot/Merlin (Merlin), Gwen/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

Be always mine, never let me go

Arthur has an important question for Merlin.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

A broken ankle, a full heart 

Merlin saves Arthur's life again.

Gwaine helps him.

Arthur is jealous and worried. Not a good combination.

(Merlin thinks it is)

Gwaine & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

Call me your friend, treat me like one 

Gwaine had only had one great friend in his life, Merlin.

But had he been an equally true friend to him?

Gwaine & Merlin

Tell me a story

Merlin didn't chose to wait Arthur for all his life.

He choose to live, to make experiences he could tell his friends about.

He couldn't make best decision.

Lancelot/Merlin

Chaotic duo

Where Merlin ends up helping Morgana with her magic and they become some kind of chaotic magic heroes duo but with a bit of a plot twist

Merlin & Morgana

Lovers of the night 

Merlin and Lancelot after the Dorocha.

Lancelot/Merlin

Something that matters more than anything else

The veil.

Lancelot's decision

Lancelot & Merlin

One, two, three

The druids didn't want Mordred among them anymore.

Merlin didn't allow them to banish him.

Arthur is not impressed

Merlin & Mordred (Merlin), Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Freya/Merlin (Merlin)

I was enchanted to see you ~ but I had always loved you

Merlin drinks some love potion and falls in love with Arthur.

Arthur is in love with Merlin.

Merlin had always been in love with Arthur, but nobody knew it

In short: they are idiots in love

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Morgana & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Merlin & Morgana (Merlin)

I don't know who you are, but you are my home

Lancelot wakes up and doesn't remember anything. He doesn't remember his origins, his family, his home. He has only a name: Merlin

Lancelot & Merlin

Dogs and boyfriends 

Merlin has a dog, Aithusa, and he doesn't like to talk to other dog owners.

Then Arthur made his appearence.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwaine & Merlin (Merlin), Gwen & Merlin (Merlin), Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin), Leon & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Arthur Pendragon & Percival (Merlin), Elyan & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

I know what happened this summer

Merlin and Arthur just got married.

Clearly, the honeymoon shouldn't be chose by Merlin. Arthur should have thought before.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

In love and in war, all is fair 

Gwaine dislikes Lancelot. He is not worth to be Merlin's best friends.

Or maybe he is?

Gwaine & Lancelot (Merlin), Gwaine & Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin), Gwaine & Merlin (Merlin), Gwen & Merlin (Merlin), Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin)

Run, little boy

After applying for college, Merlin has to have at least one mark in PE.

He isn't happy about it. Fortunately, he has his two best friends with him

Gwen & Merlin & Morgana

You are not alone. I am here. 

Merlin has been used to be alone, he has all his life to be that way.

Now, he can finally stop

Gwaine/Merlin

Trust a friend, save yourself 

Merlin had tried to save himself, had tried to overcome the pain that the Lamia had caused him.

In the end, all he needed was a friend

Gwen/Lancelot (Merlin), Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen & Merlin (Merlin), Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin)

I'll be there for you 

Merlin got hurt. Gwaine got protective.

Gwaine/Merlin

Stay away from him

Gwaine is captured by bandits. Merlin doesn't react well.

Gwaine/Merlin

Surprise me

Merlin shouldn't have listened to Arthur. Now he found himself spending the evening in the hospital, again.

At least the doctor was nice

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Merlin/Gwaine

Bring him back safe

Merlin has a choice. He chose being honest and a friend.

He chose to trust Gwaine.

Gwaine & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

Under the sky 

Merlin and Gwaine have a deep conversation under the sky. What if they can be whatever they wanted

Gwaine/Merlin

Locked in a cage

Freya had trusted them. She had hoped for the warmth of their embrace, and instead she had only the emptiness of hunger.

We could make a blanket forts

Gwen must deal with the awareness of Lancelot's departure and Merlin is there for her.

When it's up to Merlin to aware Gwaine's departure, Gwen is there for him.

Gwen & Merlin (Merlin), Gwen/Lancelot (Merlin), Gwaine/Merlin (Merlin)

Emrys' Island 

Gwaine wanted to be free.

He'd do anything to achieve that

Gwaine/Merlin (Merlin), Gwaine & Percival (Merlin)

Engage your enemy

Merlin and Arthur have been together for a couple of months.

Until they discover they are members of two opposing spy associations

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

IPUCA rule 

Merlin and Morgana discuss the best way to deal with the problems plaguing the castle. Merlin has a rule. Morgana isn’t a fan of it

Merlin & Morgana

How did you get my phone number? 

Merlin receives a message from an unknown number and complains about it to his best friend.

He should have known that Gwen was an accomplice

Gwen & Merlin, Gwaine/Merlin

Special fun

The owners of The Rising Sun had correctly assumed that his customers would require special caution. They didn't want to incur the judgment of other customers, they didn't want to be recognized by friends or colleagues, but they wanted to have fun. And the Rising Sun provided for their entertainment in many different ways.

Gwaine/Merlin

It was just an idea

Merlin smiled as he saw Lancelot dancing with Gwen, the two lovers smiling.

"They seem very happy, don't they?"

Gwen/Lancelot, Gwaine/Merlin

Lost in my mind

Merlin couldn't bear the heavy stares. He knew he already met those people, but he didn't know who they were.

Gwaine/Merlin

Walking in the snow

"If you had listened to me we wouldn't be in this situation right now." Merlin whispered urgently.

"I certainly couldn't leave you here, could I?" Gwaine smiled, a pained frown on his face.

Gwaine/Merlin

What do you mean is a secret?

Morgana smiled, finally feeling repaid for all the headaches that the boy had given her. “Merlin.”

Merlin sighed, bowing his head and saying. “Mordred has brought some druids to my house.”

Merlin & Morgana

King and queen 

Morgana could not believe what had happened.

Merlin, her best friend, had poisoned her.

Merlin had tried to kill her.

Merlin & Morgana, Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

Hoping for a better future

"Mom always said you can see someone's kind heart in their eyes." The boy murmured, and Merlin nodded. “I think that's true. It's hard to miss the goodness in the eyes. They are the mirror of our heart, you know that?”

“Do my eyes say I'm broken?” The boy asked, and Merlin's heart tightened.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Knights of the Round Table & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin (Merlin) & Original Character(s)

If I could save you 

She had studied medicine, and she wanted to help others. Deeply.

It was on one of these long and impossible work's hours that she met Arthur Du Bois.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Hunith & Merlin (Merlin), Balinor/Hunith (Merlin), Balinor & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin & Morgana (Merlin)

The Rise and the Fall

Camelot was recovering.

Merlin had never realized how strong its inhabitants were, but after seeing their ability to return to everyday life after the horrors Morgana had subjected them to, he had to realize it.

Camelot wobbled, tried to hold on, and it did.

They had defeated Morgana, they had won. And, now, they could reap the fruits of that victory.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwaine & Merlin (Merlin), Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin), Leon & Merlin (Merlin), Elyan & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin & Percival (Merlin), Knights of the Round Table & Merlin (Merlin)

You are my wish

Merthur, yule, mistletoe

The new kid

He had already been the new guy, he knew the procedure that would await him.

The other students would study him to figure out what category he fell into, and then the athletes would bully him to get homework done.

The nerds would gather around him, creating a new sect, leaving him no time to create his own.

And then, it would all culminate in Merlin offending the most popular boy in some way, ruining his chances at that high school forever.

Gwen & Merlin

"You really had to do it?"

Merlin is so proud of what he did.

Arthur not that much.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

You are my world

Arthur never understood his father's decisions.

Then he becomes king himself and is convinced that he is making all the wrong decisions.

Luckily for him, Arthur has someone who loves him deeply by his side

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

I knew you'd come for me ~ But you did?

Merlin is kidnapped. They make a bet: do the knights care about him as a friend or is he just a servant?

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon, Knights of the Round Table & Merlin

"Stop, please" 

Merlin and the knights reach a cave that allows you to discover your greatest fears.

How I met your father

Merlin and Arthur first meet

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

Aftermath 

Lamia is dead, but her shadows remain

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon, Gwaine & Merlin

I'll carry your heart with me 

Despite the war, there is always time for love

Gwaine/Merlin

The whole package 

Arthur is not a jealous man.

Except when it comes to Merlin.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Knights of the Round Table & Merlin (Merlin)

Just us, you find out

When Arthur had been given the love potion, Gwen's kiss hadn't been enough to wake him.

Merlin panicked.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen & Merlin (Merlin)

You needed a break! 

Merlin ignores Morgana, the druids are still in her chambers and Arthur irritates the witch.

Solution? Kidnap Merlin, obviously.

Merlin & Morgana

Jealous of him, I want to be yours

Gwaine is jealous. Not of Arthur, because even if he and Merlin are basically joined at the hip, it's obvious that the royal numpty has no idea about Merlin's magic. No, Gwaine is jealous of Lancelot, because he's the only one who does know.

Gwaine/Lancelot/Merlin

They don't know you ~ not like I do 

Merlin is jealous of Mithian? Yes, he is.

Merlin thinks that no one except him knows Arthur that good? Yes, he does.

Merlin will definitely plan the perfect wedding for Arthur and Mithian.

PS: There is no wedding.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Leon/Mithian (Merlin)

I thought I had lost you 

Merlin has an infected wound.

Arthur is worried to lose his best friend (and something more)

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

How this all started 

Arthur and Merlin tell how they met.

Or, rather, Merlin tells how he met his husband while he teases him

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen/Morgana (Merlin), Knights of the Round Table & Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

He was an hero. He is an hero. He will be always a hero.

Merlin is mourning his friend.

Arthur pays him a visit.

Lancelot & Merlin, Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

The seat at the Table

Merlin is an amazing and loyal friend. He is also a good servant.

Arthur just need to realise he is more than that.

Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen & Merlin (Merlin), George & Merlin (Merlin)

What do you mean someone wants to kill the king? 

Merlin avoids the knights, hides his magic, and prevents the killing of the king.

Knights of the Round Table & Merlin (Merlin)

You never fathomed me out 

Arthur gives Merlin his mother's sigil.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

The god and the believer 

Merlin lived for century distrusting humankind. They did nothing to deserve his love and he didn't give it to them.

This, until someone stepped into his life. And Merlin felt alive once again.

Gwen & Merlin (Merlin), Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen/Morgana (Merlin)

If you're getting this 

Merlin left a letter for Arthur

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

There'd be no distance that could hold us back

There is nothing that could make him break his oath

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

This means something ~ but I don't know what 

Giving to someone your family's sigil is like adopting that person as a brother or confessing your feelings.

Arthur tries to do the second one.

And Merlin, well, is simply Merlin.

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)

Not again woodworms!

Arthur didn't know that Lancelot and Gwaine would have been dangerous.

Actually, it was Merlin's fault.

Like always

Gwaine & Lancelot & Merlin (Merlin)

There's no rhyme nor reason, just a sense of completion

Merlin and Lancelot talk.

Lancelot & Merlin

You deserve to be loved 

Being a servant meant being beaten and mistreated.

But was that really what they were meant to be?

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gaius & Merlin (Merlin)

The screams of the innocents

Merlino, an FBI recruit, is tasked by his boss with drawing up the profile of a dangerous criminal.

But it's never that simple.

Merlin / Arthur Pendragon

For Merlin

Arthur Pendragon avenges his best friend.

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

The list

Arthur starts his plan.

Gwen & Arthur Pendragon

Malvor 

Arthur confronts the king who wounded Merlin

The servants 

Some gossips in the kitchen.

The seat

Arthur finds someone else for the empty seats

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon

A servant at the table? 

The nobles disagree with Arthur's decision to have servants at the Round Table...

Merlin & Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen & Merlin (Merlin)

Wow, guys, I have a lot of Merlin fanfic, so, click here to go to the second part

[angelynmoon]

Merlin and Lancelot emerge from their self imposed isolation after three days, Merlin with a skip in their step and Lancelot with a smile that Gwaine called smug.

Hunith handed Theron over with little fuss and no comment on Merlin's change, Effie and Ellie also don't comment except to start calling Merlin mum rather than daddy.

Merlin does refuse to turn the handful of people who ignored their warning back into humans, stating that they needed to learn their lessons about interrupting their time with Lancelot, though Merlin assured Arthur later that the effects would wear off within the week.

Lancelot, while always protective of Merlin, takes it to a new level now that they are carrying a child, he stands guard for Merlin and Gwen both as they talk about what is to come for their pregnancies with Freya, Merlin insists that Hunith stay, they refuse to intertain the idea of someone else delivering their child, and Hunith has assisted in many births, their villiage was very small.

Gaius checks in on Merlin and Gwen, but he has other duties and both are more comfortable speaking with Hunith about woman's problems that crop up.

Arthur is suddenly glad he'd thought to invite Hunith to Camelot, she gave the Castle a softer touch and it was good for Gwen and Merlin to have a mother around, plus all the children adored Grandmum Hunith, even Morgana would only sit still for lessons if Hunith was the one teaching them.

Lancelot is not the only Knight to get more protective over Merlin and Gwen, Arthur knows he has, insisting that Merlin sit whenever possible, and there may be a squire whose only job is to follow his wife with a padded chair for if she needs rest.

Both Merlin and Gwen roll their eyes at him when he offers them chairs, but neither stop him and he's glad for that.

He's worried, more than he thought he'd be, about both pregnancies, his mother died in childbirth, and though no one speaks of it, Uther tried for a spare heir many times, only Morgana survived of his siblings and none of their mothers left the birthing bed alive.

So, Arthur worries and he tries to make life as stress free for his wife and his best friend as he can, he keeps Lancelot in the Castle when he'd normally send him on missions hexd trust to no one else, Gwaine and Percival have taken over those missions, Elyan kept close for Gwen.

But sometimes he dreams, they are not happy dreams, he dreams of blood soaked sheets, of hands pushing a screaming babe at him and of sorrow filled eyes as news of his wife's death are dilivered, the person dead in the birthing bed switches between Merlin and Gwen with no rhyme or reason.

On those nights Arthur cannot bring himself to stay in his marriage bed, it's the bed that would bring his wife's death on those nights and he can't stay there.

The guards make no comment as he leaves his chambers, both of them remaining at the doors as Arthur goes for a midnight walk.

Hunith finds him in his mother's garden, she does not speak, only sits next to him on the bench and pulls him into a hug that he sinks into, he can't help it, it's a mother's hug, something he never got until Merlin came into his life and stayed there.

"Merlin won't let anything happen to Gwen, and neither will Freya." Hunith told him.

"I can't stop dreaming about it, my mother..." Arthur said quietly.

"Your mother's circumstances were quite different, as were all the others." Hunith stopped him, "Your Father banned Magic, you cannot commit the atrosities that he did without consequence, that it came at the expense of other's lives was his own selfishness because he did not stop at the first woman."

"How can I stop dreaming of them dying?" Arthur asked, "I can't stop seeing them die, I can't..., I don't want to have a child at Gwen's expense, and I don't want Merlin to die either."

Hunith looked at him and hummed, "I can give you a draught for the dreams, but it doesn't relieve the cause of them, only a successful birth can do that. But Merlin and Gwen are strong, they have good odds, especially with a Goddess on their side." Hunith motioned to the pond that Freya often lounged in, though she appeared absent tonight,nfir which Arthur was glad.

"It's alright to be frightened, Arthur, I was scared when I realised I was going to have Merlin, I was alone, unwed, and Merlin showed signed of Magic long before I gave birth, it's normal, things will turn out right, you'll see. Now, come on, I'll make you a snack and some warm milk before you head off to bed." Hunith said as she got up.

Arthur followed her, anxieties soothed over for the moment, he was sure to continue his protectiveness but no one was blaming him for that, even Lancelot seemed to understand Arthur's overprotectiveness when it came to the man's Mate and shared the sentiment with Gwen.

Come to think of it Gwaine was extreemly protective of Gwen and Merlin as well, perhaps it was a Dragon thing, either way, Arthur was glad that so many people were looking after his wife and his best friend, even if he still worried.

--

A/n: So, I figured that Arthur might have some anxieties about Gwen and Merlin's pregnancies and this chapter came along to explore them.

[scionofguineverependragon]

[evadne01]

My Merlin 4x4 card!

Hi! This is me completing another merlin bingo card!

Also, I use this post to remind you amazing people that I accept requests to write fic (see my masterlist to fandom and characters)

Under the cut, my submissions for this!

m1, epistolary: Letters from a friend ~ Chapter 2: Second letter

Merlin's and Lancelot's letters through the series

m2, dragonlord voice: Emrys and the three Queens ~ Chapter 2: Proving them wrong

They (Merlin, Morgana, Gwaine) start their mission

m3, deaf-hard of hearing: Why would I lie when I can tell you the truth? ~ Chapter 6: Morgana sees something and realises something else

Morgana wants to help Merlin and she isn't blind as Arthur

m4, therapy: You need therapy

Leon and Percy talk.

Leon adopts Percy

y1, stories: Did you send the head where?

The reborn souls, Merlin, Leon and Percy talk about some quests.

y2, makeup: I just met you

Arthur and Merlin first meeting.

Or: How Arthur fell in love with Merlin

y3, Septicemia/infected wounds: There's always a way ~ Chapter 3: Making a plan

Gabriel talks about the Cage, and then Merlin and Gabriel talk about Merlin.

y4, ransom/ransom demand: Emrys and the three Queens ~ Chapter 3: Forgive and forget

There are some issues between the new group. And they plan their next move.

t1, sharing clothes: Fatal Unions ~ Chapter 4: Arthur

Arthur feels

t2, slaves: The hunters and the preys ~ Chapter 1: The new life

Merlin is been sold by his older brother to the slaves.

This is how he'll escape them

t3, jealousy: Jealousy, jealosy

Arthur and the knights are jealous of their Omega

t4, Protective Arthur: Why would I lie when I can tell you the truth? ~ Chapter 5: Merlin asks for forgiveness and Arthur is worried

Merlin is so tired of making hard choices, Arthur is a good friend and Morgana got her confession

h1, teasing: It takes a lot more than that to impress me

Merlin finally meets reborn Gwaine.

Percy is amused, Leo is amused, Merlin is amused.

Leon is not amused.

h2, arrest: This is my favourite cute little cat ~ okay, it's a bastet

Merlin finds a cute little kitten.

Very very huge, with wings.

Okay, maybe it isn't a kitten, but Merlin likes it.

h3, fluff: There was an idea ~ Chapter 3: … he was always there

Merlin and Arthur

h4, napping: Why would I lie when I can tell you the truth? ~ Chapter 4: Merlin has some words after the Sophia's mess

Merlin and Arthur talk about the almost-marriage (Merlin disagree with Gaius' story)

[lit-in-thy-heart]

dandelions

(Part 3 of we are bound together by delicate stems)

Rating: Mature

Archive Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Categories: Multi

Relationships: Gwaine/Lancelot/Merlin

Characters: Gwaine, Lancelot, Merlin

Additional Tags: i've got a finished wip! i've got a finished wip!, and guess what's inside it, Hurt/Comfort, Light Angst, in comparison to marigolds that is, hello and welcome to another tonal shift, and idk how to tag nsfw stuff, Nudity, Touching, Grinding, and that's about as far as it goes, it was not meant to be a part of this fic but here we are, Hugs, Mild Smut, Mild comedy, Hair Brushing, Bathing/Washing, Casual Magic, Literal Sleeping Together, listen lance and merlin are just really worried about gwaine, and gwaine is worried about them being worried, Injury Recovery, Forehead Kisses, Forehead Touching, this is an inadvertent bottle episode, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Canon Universe, Insecure Gwaine, Plot? What Plot?, discovered the name polaris wasn't used until more recently, so accidentally spent half an hour researching the north star and old english grammar, no it is not relevant to the story, yes if there's an odd-looking word then it's probably the old english one, yes i can now give you about five different names polaris has been known by, Worried Merlin, worried Lancelot, Supportive Lancelot, Supportive Merlin, one day i'll stop beating gwaine with a narrative stick, today is not that day, literally this has been in my google docs since last september, Kissing, Teasing, Infection, Hallucinations, Sleep Deprivation, falling over

Words: 12,443

Chapters: 1/1

Summary: Now safe in Camelot, Gwaine, Lancelot and Merlin struggle to forget the events of Fyrien. As they navigate open wounds and emotional scars, they try to rebuild themselves.

Or

Gwaine comes down with an infection and is forced to face his fear. Luckily, Lancelot and Merlin are very good at distractions.

Opening:

Lancelot was the one who noticed that Gwaine had developed a fever. Gwaine had dismissed the sweating as a result of the nightmares that had returned after Fyrien, the shortness of breath as a consequence of reliving every moment that he’d been tied to a rock in the ocean. And he’d been trying to eat, trying to keep hydrated, since being moved from Merlin’s room into their shared chambers. He’d been trying so hard to recover, to lessen the strain on Merlin and Lancelot, but when Lancelot had refused to leave him for even a moment it had become apparent that Gwaine was not getting any better.

Merlin, after resting for two days, had returned to his duties and Lancelot, unable to train with his arm in a sling, had chosen to stay with Gwaine. He’d barely spoken since returning – had done little but sleep and curl up against Lancelot in the hours before dawn, his face streaked with tears – and both of his partners had been concerned about what thoughts would trickle into his mind if he was left alone. It was on the third day after their return that Lancelot realised Gwaine was significantly warmer than he ought to have been.

Read on ao3

[magicalsniper]

9,832 words | Mature | One-Shot Author's AO3: MagicalSniper Story Link: An Heir is Borne

Summary: Arthur and Guinevere face a crisis when Arthur is found to be sterile, leaving the kingdom without an heir. Desperate, they turn to Merlin, who agrees to help them conceive a child through magic despite his own unrequited love for Arthur. However, little do they know, Merlin plans on leaving Camelot for good once Gwen falls pregnant.

0===][:::::::::::::>

An Heir is Borne

0===][:::::::::::::>

Beneath the starry sky of Arthur’s bed chambers that Merlin had placed one day for a prank but kept because Arthur loved it, Arthur’s hand found Gwen’s in a tremulous grasp. Gwen interlocked their fingers and closed her eyes, pressing her lips to his knuckles and letting out a shaky breath.

“Yet another month passes,” Arthur murmured as if the words were heavy on his tongue. His blue eyes, usually clear and sure, were clouded with sadness and self-doubt. “And still, no heir.”

Gwen sighed softly, shaking her head, her dark curls spilling over her shoulders. “Perhaps it is time to seek Merlin’s help,” she suggested gently. She understood her husband’s hesitance in getting their friend involved, but he might be their last hope. “He would never think ill of us.”

Arthur scoffed, rising from the edge of their bed. “Merlin wouldn’t think ill of us if we put him on a pyre to burn.”

“Maybe, but let’s not test that theory,” Merlin chirped as he entered the room with a large tray. He held the door for George, who was holding another large tray, and for Elisabeth, who was holding the water and wine jugs. He dismissed George and Elisabeth and walked up to the bed to lean against the left front bedpost, an eyebrow raised. “Why am I being put on a pyre?”

Arthur gave Gwen an uncertain look before sighing heavily. “Gwen and I have been trying to have a baby. We’ve yet to be successful.”

“Maybe your soldiers are just as stubborn as you,” Merlin quipped. He then grew serious, his face softening with genuine concern. “How long have you been trying?”

“About six seasons,” Gwen admitted, causing Arthur to wince. Merlin’s face mirrored their concern.

“And your monthly bleed is normal? I imagine so because once a month for like a week, Arthur complains and comp—”

“Shut it!” Arthur snapped, throwing a pillow at Merlin’s head. 

“There are tests we can try,” Merlin said as he caught the pillow and fluffed it before handing it to Gwen to place back on Arthur’s side of the bed. He tilted his head, shaking it slightly to get the hair out of his eyes. “Spells of fertility, to see what is happening.” 

“Are they dangerous?” Gwen asked, worry clouding her features.

“Only to Arthur’s pride,” Merlin said with a grin. He motioned for Gwen to come closer and, in a theatrical whisper, said, “he has to provide a sample for me.”

Arthur blanched. “What kind of sample?”

Merlin maintained a serious expression, though his eyes twinkled with mischief. “You need to ejaculate into a beaker for me. It’s the only way to get an accurate test with the spell. I could do it straight to your testicles, but then you risk frying the rest of them.” Arthur winced and moved his legs together. Merlin looked down at Gwen, “You can help him if he needs it, but honestly, if his sheets are anything to go by, he’s a semi-pro.”

“Gwen will not be helping me with that!” Arthur said, his face flushing with embarrassment.

“What, you want me to help you?” Merlin asked, finally allowing a small, reassuring smile to break through.

Arthur was at a loss of words for a moment, his face getting redder and redder as he struggled to form a sentence.

Gwen laughed and slapped Merlin’s shoulder gently, “Stop teasing him. He’s about to pass out.”

Merlin sighed heavily and shook his head at her, his tone light and affectionate. “You always take away my fun.” He straightened and motioned towards the table. “Why don’t we eat and discuss it more? If you are comfortable, we can start the tests tonight.”

“See, told you he could do it,” Merlin joked lightly later that evening as Arthur shoved the beaker with his sample into Merlin’s hands, refusing to meet his eyes.

“We will never speak of this again,” Arthur said through gritted teeth, standing beside Gwen on the other side of Merlin’s table. He squeezed her hand tightly, his heart feeling as if it were about to fall out of his chest.

Merlin’s chambers, which were across the corridor from Arthur and down the corridor from Gwen’s, were dimly lit. Tendrils of incense smoke rose, making the air feel heavy. Merlin drew intricate symbols on the table, his fingers leaving luminescent trails that glowed softly against the wood.

Arthur’s jaw was set firm as Merlin began to enchant, his voice barely above a murmur, yet it resonated through the room. Gwen’s eyes didn’t leave Merlin’s hands as, with careful precision, he dropped herbs into a chalice of water, each submerged with a pulsing ripple. The chalice's contents shimmered, casting an ethereal light that danced across their anxious faces.

Merlin placed the sample in the middle of the chalice, the liquid in the chalice now a vortex of swirling colours, each hue blending into the next. With a swift motion, he upturned the chalice, sending the contents to spread across the drawn circle.

The trio held their breath, watching the liquid stretch along the table, stopping within the confines. Arthur and Gwen looked up to Merlin for guidance, but his frown merely grew the dimmer the concoction got. 

Merlin stepped away from the table, sniffled and took a deep, shaky breath before vanishing everything from the table. “I’m so sorry.”

A sharp intake of breath from Gwen pierced the silence that followed. Tears welled in her eyes, but she held them back as she looked over at Arthur. 

Arthur stood frozen, the colour draining from his face, leaving him ghostly pale. The implications of Merlin's words were a blow more devastating than any enemy's sword. A sterile king—a broken link in the chain of succession—meant uncertainty and chaos for Camelot.

“Are you certain?” Arthur’s voice cracked, his usual confidence shattered.

“There is a minimal chance, if ever, that you will be able to sire a child,” Merlin responded softly.  He hesitated before reaching over and rubbing Arthur’s back as Gwen reached for Arthur’s hand, squeezing it. 

“Then we must discuss the next steps,” Arthur said, his voice steadying with resolve.

Merlin looked over at him, eyes flooded with curiosity. “Next steps, like assigning an heir?”

“That is one of the options,” Gwen admitted, pushing a strand of hair behind her ears. “I think this is better if we do it sitting down.”

Merlin summoned the chairs from the other side of the room and sat on the table, crossing his legs and leaning his elbows on his knees.

“I need a drink,” Arthur muttered, not even flinching when Merlin summoned the goblets and wine from his chambers and handed him and Gwen theirs. 

“We’ve discussed that if one of us—”

Arthur took a deep drink from his wine. “Is unable,” Arthur finished for her, his eyes locking into Merlin’s. “That we would seek help.”

"Help?" Merlin queried, his brow knitting in confusion. “Surely not—”

Arthur shook his head hard, “Nothing like my father had done. A surrogate or donor, depending on our needs.”

“A donor,” Merlin said slowly. He licked his lips, “who were you considering?”

“Well, you.”

“Me!?” Merlin’s reaction was immediate and visceral; he almost fell off the table in his shock. “Surely, you can’t mean—”

“The kingdom needs an heir,” Arthur interrupted, his voice edging towards a plea.

“Of course, but consider the ramifications,” Merlin countered, his voice rising in pitch. "If the child does not resemble you, questions will arise. The accusations against Gwen alone..."

"Could weaken Camelot further," Arthur conceded, his expression darkening.

“Beyond the whispers of infidelity, there is the matter of lineage,” Merlin pressed on, his hands gesturing emphatically. "The legitimacy of your rule, the stability of the realm—it all hinges upon the perception of a rightful heir."

“We thought of all that, which is why it has to be you,” Gwen said with finality. 

Merlin dropped his hands into his lap, “I don’t follow.”

“We announce that you will be the child’s sire—”

“Are you insane?” Merlin screeched, “That’ll invite chaos and dissent.”

“Or it will be seen as the connection of Camelot to the magical community, something to make it stronger,” Arthur said, folding his arms across his chest. “A child, born to the Camelot throne, a child of Emrys…”

“But, Arthur, they will say you’re weak.”

“No, they will see we’re strong,” Arthur said firmly. “There have been times in Camelot’s history where an heir was not sired or had died early in life. The successful adopted heirs were those announced to the community, not hidden out of the King’s shame of not being able to sire one.” Arthur took a deep breath and looked into his friend’s eyes, a vulnerable smile on his face. “We can’t hide the fact that it will be your child, but we won’t have to.”

“Merlin, everyone loves you. Yes, there will be people against it, likely some of our counsellors, but the vast majority? They’d be proud to call your child a leader one day.” Gwen leaned forward and touched his knee, giving it a light squeeze. “The hope you would give the magical community—showing that you are helping grow Camelot into a haven for them—what better way than to give your child to rule the kingdom?”

“I…” Merlin glared down at his shoes, his fingers playing with his laces. “I don’t know about this…”

Arthur reached forward and took Merlin’s hand, squeezing it lightly before rubbing his thumb against the top. “Merlin, there is no one else in this world whom I trust as I trust you,” he began, his voice laced with an earnestness that Merlin hadn’t ever heard from him before. "You are my most loyal friend, my confidant, and the very soul of Camelot. Your intentions have always been pure, even when faced with the darkest times."

Merlin felt the room spin slightly, the gravity of Arthur's words anchoring him to the spot. He watched Gwen give them a slight, encouraging nod before she rose gracefully from her seat and retreated, leaving the two men alone.

"Arthur," Merlin started but was silenced by a gesture.

“Let me speak,” Arthur implored. "I have never doubted your loyalty nor your love for Camelot—and for us. If there is one man in this kingdom who could fulfil this role, who could help us in our most desperate hour, it is you, Merlin."

Merlin swallowed hard, the intimacy of the moment wrapping around him like a cloak. It was rare for Arthur to expose such vulnerability. "Arthur, this could bring unforeseen consequences upon us all," Merlin murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Perhaps," Arthur conceded, moving closer to sit shoulder-to-shoulder with his friend. "But without an heir, Camelot's future is bleak. You know as well as I that the realm's stability rests upon our lineage. Without it, the kingdom will fall into chaos, and the work we've done, the progress we've made towards uniting the five kingdoms—will be no more."

He knocked his shoulder with Merlin’s before pressing into his side.  "I would not ask this of anyone else, Merlin," Arthur continued solemnly. "You are the one person in this world, other than Gwen, whom I can trust with anything—my life, crown, and heart. You have stood by me through trials that would have broken lesser men. You've saved my life more times than I can count."

"Arthur, you are my king, my best friend," Merlin replied, caught in the intensity of Arthur's blue gaze. "Your request is... it's not something I ever imagined."

"Nor I," Arthur admitted. "But here we are, and I find myself asking you to help us in a way that goes beyond anything I have ever asked. I know that you love us, Merlin, and I know that you would never use this as an excuse to seek the crown."

Silence followed, Merlin unable to come up with any reasonable retort.

"Think on it, Merlin," Arthur said finally, his hand dropping away as he stepped back, allowing Merlin the space to process the enormity of the proposition. "This is not just about us—it's about the future of Camelot."

Merlin sighed heavily and licked his lips, his fingers twisting into the bottom of his tunic. His eyes, usually shining with joy, now flickered with an emotion that seemed to wrestle between profound duty and personal turmoil.

"Arthur," Merlin began, his voice steady despite the storm of thoughts raging in his mind. "I will consider your request, but know that this is not a decision I can make lightly or quickly."

Arthur nodded sharply, "I understand. And whatever you decide, know that it will change nothing between us. You are my most trusted friend, and that is not contingent upon the answer you give."

"Thank you, Sire," Merlin replied, the formality of the title feeling suddenly inadequate for the moment. He glanced towards the door, feeling Gwen’s presence just beyond the wood. "I shall give you my answer by the rise of the next moon," he promised.

Arthur clapped a hand on Merlin’s shoulder before stepping away and leaving Merlin to his thoughts. As he stopped by the door, he glanced back at his friend. Merlin was still sitting upon the table, but now, his face was hidden in his knees, and his hands were running and pulling at the strands of his hair. With a sigh, Arthur opened the door and closed it softly behind him, joining his wife in the corridor. He wrapped his arms around her waist, resting his chin atop her head and kissing her crown.

"What if he says no?" Gwen whispered, her words fragile as glass.

"Then we will face that when it comes," Arthur replied, his voice unwavering even as his heart quaked with uncertainty. "We have overcome much, my love. We will overcome this, too.”

Gwen pulled away and took his hand, “Let’s go to sleep. It’s been a long evening.” 

As the night deepened around Camelot, the castle seemed to hold its breath, awaiting the decision that would shape the destiny of a kingdom.

And outside, beneath the veil of stars and the watchful gaze of the heavens, Merlin walked the cobblestone paths, his footsteps echoing softly against stone, the weight of a crown's future pressing upon his shoulders.

~o0o~

Merlin traced the contours of the wooden table with an absent-minded finger, his gaze distant as Gwaine and Lancelot entered his chambers. He greeted them with a melancholy smile and gestured for them to sit. He continued his musing, barely nodding in thanks when Gwaine slid a goblet of wine his way.

“What’s wrong?” Lancelot asked, pushing his hair from his eyes. “Another fight with Arthur?”

“No, it’s not that.” With a sigh, Merlin sat back in his chair, frown deepening. “The harvest moon is near, but the fields are barren.”

“What?” Gwaine leaned forward, his eyes narrowing in confusion.

“Someone is struggling to conceive,” Lancelot said softly, his features tightening as he caught the hidden meaning in Merlin’s words. “Arthur and Gwen?”

Gwaine snorted. “Of course, it’s them. Who else would you be this down about?”

Merlin opened his mouth to argue but stopped, knowing it was pointless. “They asked me to help them have a child.”

Gwaine stood up abruptly. “Are they insane!? How could they ask that of you?” His voice was a low growl, his hands clenching into fists. He glared over at Lancelot, who put a calming hand on his shoulder and lightly pushed down to get Gwaine to sit back.

Merlin’s eyes watered, and he took a deep breath to calm himself. “I’m their last hope. If I don’t help them, who will?”

Lancelot leaned forward and took Merlin’s hand, squeezing it gently. “My friend, it is noble to consider this, but at what cost to your own heart?”

Merlin smiled sadly. “My love for Arthur will always be unrequited. But that doesn’t mean I shouldn’t do something that will make them immeasurably happy.”

Lancelot and Gwaine shared a look. “It’ll tear you apart to watch Arthur and Gwen raise a child that you helped create,” Gwaine said, his voice softening with concern.

Merlin scoffed. “Even if Arthur returned my affections, we’d never have children. And in either case, what am I to do?” Merlin’s voice became almost lyrical, giving both men pause. He only spoke like that regarding talks of Destiny, the Five Kingdoms, and Albion. It usually meant he had already made his choice, and they couldn’t stop him.

“He wouldn’t hate you, you know,” Lancelot said gently.

“Of course, but I’d hate myself,” Merlin admitted. “If I don’t help Arthur and Gwen when I easily could. I can’t forsake Camelot’s future for selfish reasons.” He paused momentarily, looking unsure about his next sentence. “Should I go through with it, it would mean I leave Camelot.”

Gwaine spat out his wine, and Lancelot patted him on the back as he coughed violently. “Leave Camelot!?” He slammed his goblet on the table, causing a small crack on the surface. “You are the core of this kingdom! There wouldn’t be a Camelot without you.”

Merlin looked down at the table, “Sometimes, even the core must be removed for the whole body to thrive.”

“That is absolute—”

“Gwaine,” Lancelot said forcefully.

“You can’t think this is okay!?” Gwaine turned towards him angrily. “Merlin’s given up everything for Arthur. He is going too far this time, asking him for something like this.”

“I agree, but our job as Merlin’s friends is to support him in what he chooses to do.”

“How is this even going to happen? You have no interest in having sex with a woman,” Gwaine said, turning back to Merlin.

Merlin scrunched up his nose. It was true. There was only one woman he ever had an interest in sleeping with, and she was no longer a viable option. “There’s a spell one can use to transfer sperm into an ovum without the physical touch required of sex. It has to happen minutes after release for it to be effective, which is—”

“Weird,” Gwaine said bluntly. “What are you going to do, pleasure yourself with them in the room watching?” Gwaine scoffed and leaned back in his seat, crossing his legs. “I didn’t know voyeurism was a kink of yours.”

Merlin frowned at Gwaine, “It is not—”

“I’ll go with you,” Gwaine said with a heavy sigh. “When you leave Camelot.” he elaborated at Merlin’s confused look.

“Myself as well,” Lancelot said. “You won’t have to go through this alone, my friend.”

Merlin met with Arthur and Gwen early the following day for breakfast as usual. His mind was a vortex of entropy, and his emotions only held up marginally better. Upon reaching Arthur’s chambers, he paused to gather the last vestiges of composure before he had what was arguably the most important talk they’d ever had.

With a deep breath, he knocked and entered, finding Arthur and Gwen already at their table and having started breakfast. Gwen shot him a brilliant smile and pushed out the chair on the other side of the table. “Merlin, come join us.”

Merlin walked over slowly, each step heavy with the weight of his decision. He sat down gingerly on the edge of the chair, feeling their concerned gazes on him. Gwen frowned and reached over to grab a clean plate, piling on foods she knew he liked to eat before nudging it in front of him.

Arthur’s sharp eyes narrowed as he watched Merlin’s uncharacteristic hesitation. “What’s wrong with you?” he snapped, his voice a mix of worry and frustration.

Merlin bit his lip, then looked up at them, his heart pounding. He forced a smile, though it didn’t reach his eyes. “I’ll do it.”

Gwen gasped, her hand flying to her chest, her lips parting in shock. Arthur faltered, his eyes widening in surprise and something that looked like hope. “You’ll do it?” Arthur’s voice held a tremor that betrayed his usual fortitude.

“Yes,” Merlin confirmed, his gaze unwavering despite the storm inside him.

Gwen quickly got up from the table and circled Merlin, her arms wrapping around him tightly. “Thank you, Merlin. We can never repay you.” Her voice was thick with emotion, tears glistening in her eyes.

Arthur came up beside them and hugged Merlin, the warmth of their embrace both comforting and excruciating. Merlin pressed his face into Arthur’s shoulder, taking a shaky breath as he tried, failing to stop the tears in his eyes. He reached out and held them tightly, the reality of his decision sinking in.

“Think nothing of it,” Merlin said softly, allowing himself a moment to collect himself in their arms. “My only wish is to see you both happy and for Camelot to thrive.”

He gently extricated himself from their embrace, his heart aching with the loss he was about to face. “I’ll need a few days,” he said, keeping his voice steady despite the tempest brewing in his heart. “The specifics of the process require some preparation. It’ll take a bit to gather what is necessary and ensure everything is done correctly.”

“Take all the time you need, Merlin. We trust you completely,” Arthur said, his tone warm and filled with gratitude. It was subtle, but Merlin could hear the anticipation in his voice.

Gwen reached over, her touch light on Merlin’s forearm. “Is there anything we should do to prepare or be concerned about?”

Merlin shook his head. “It’s fairly simple, nothing like the one that ensured Arthur’s birth.” He paused for a moment, biting his lip. “You should use the time to come to terms with the fact that your child will likely have magic and be a dragonlord. My mother told me I was moving things before I was born—books flying, dancing vials, things like that.”

Gwen and Arthur were silent, causing Merlin to stutter out the following words. “I-I could bind the child’s powers. It isn’t dangerous if you do it before they are born, and it takes hold.” He offered, but the thought pained him more than he dared to admit.

“Absolutely not,” Arthur said firmly. “If our child has magic, especially magic inherited from you, Merlin, then it is meant to be nurtured. Any child with your gift... it could be nothing but pure and good.”

Gwen nodded her agreement, her eyes shining with determination. “They will know nothing but love and acceptance.”

Warmth bloomed in Merlin’s chest, a bittersweet mixture of joy and sorrow. “Thank you,” he managed to say, his throat tight with emotion. “I’ll begin the preparations at once.”

With that, Merlin excused himself to his chambers. Once there, he began to methodically gather the items he wanted to take, laying them out on his desk with a sense of finality. He separated his magic books from his personal effects, each item a memory of his time in Camelot. With a flick of his hand, he expanded the inside of his bag, the enchantment echoing the depth of his resolve. He carefully placed the books first, including the first book of magic he had received from Gaius. Next, he added his clothes and the small souvenirs he had collected over the years, each from various patrols, battles, feasts and festivals he joined.

At the top of the pile, he placed Arthur’s mother’s sigil, nestling it safely between the folds of his garments. The sigil was more than a token; it symbolised his bond with Arthur and the promise he had made to protect him. The last item he packed was a beautiful sapphire cloak with the Pendragon crest embroidered in gold thread on the front. It was a gift from Arthur and Gwen when he was made Court Sorcerer, a cherished reminder of their friendship and trust in him.

As the quiet hours of the night wore on, Merlin sat at his desk and wrote goodbye letters to his closest friends. Each letter was a labour of love, gratitude, and sorrow, the words flowing from his heart like a bittersweet melody. He poured his soul into each stroke of the pen, knowing that these letters would be the last pieces of himself he could leave behind.

With the first light of dawn cresting over the horizon, Merlin placed the notes in the top drawer of his desk. He had arranged for them to be delivered a day after he left Camelot, ensuring that there would be enough distance to prevent his friends from finding him too soon. Deep down, he knew they would come looking for him, driven by the same love and loyalty that bound them together.

The following day, Merlin steeled himself to fulfil his promise as the castle stirred to life. He would catalyse a future for Camelot that shimmered with hope, even if it meant walking away from the life he had known. His heart ached with the weight of his decision, but Merlin knew this act of deep loyalty and love would shape the destiny of the kingdom he cherished. As he took his final steps away from the castle he had called home, he felt the bittersweet pang of a new path unfolding before him, one marked by sacrifice and the unyielding strength of his heart.

~o0o~

The moonlight streamed through the stained glass window, casting a kaleidoscope of colours across Arthur’s chamber. The room, usually a sanctuary of comfort for Merlin, now felt suffocating with tension.

Merlin closed his eyes and took several deep breaths, hoping the warmth of the fire would ease his tension. He panted, his tongue circling two fingers before pressing them into his mouth. His left hand trailed down to his hip, rubbing slow circles. But nothing worked. Frustrated, he ran his hands through his hair and growled, leaping up from Arthur’s bed. The weight of Arthur and Gwen’s stares was unbearable.

"I can't do this with you both staring at me," Merlin snapped, his cheeks flushing crimson.

“You can go into the antechamber. I had George clean it out this morning,” Gwen suggested encouragingly.

Merlin nodded stiffly and walked to the antechamber, closing the door firmly behind him. He began to pace, anxiety mounting. If he didn’t do something soon, he wouldn’t be able to help Arthur and Gwen.

Two knocks on the door preceded Arthur’s entrance. Merlin stiffened, turning slowly, barely meeting Arthur’s eyes.

“I can’t do it with just you watching me either,” Merlin snarked, rubbing his sweaty hands on his pants.

Arthur raised his hands placatingly. “I was thinking… well, maybe I could…” A blush crept up his cheeks, and Merlin raised a brow. “I could help you.”

“Unless you can vanish on command,” Merlin retorted, sarcasm dripping from every syllable. “I fear not.”

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Arthur scoffed. “What is a little help between us? The knights do it all the time.”

“I’m not a knight,” Merlin pointed out. “And you can’t—”

Arthur waved his hand dismissively. “Nonsense, it wouldn’t be a hardship.” His eyes glinted mischievously but held sincerity. “I assure you.”

Merlin bit his bottom lip, torn between his desire and the potential consequences. This might be his one chance to be with Arthur the way he wanted, but Arthur didn’t know of his feelings. Still, Arthur had offered...

His heart stuttered in his chest as he nodded slowly. 

Arthur closed the distance between them, his steps unhurried as he lightly pressed a hand to Merlin’s chest and pushed him backwards until his knees met the bed. Merlin toppled over and reached out to grab Arthur in his shock. 

He took a shuddery breath and let go of Arthur’s tunic. Perhaps this hadn’t been such a good idea after all. He was suddenly reminded of the power and pain of loving someone out of reach and how this would likely only damage him more. Merlin swallowed thickly and shakily undid his pants before pushing his shirt up his chest before he could back out.

The room was chilly, causing him to suck in his stomach at the sudden temperature change, but he forced himself to relax, take deep breaths and block out everything else other than what was happening.

Arthur made to slide down to his knees when Merlin grabbed his tunic and pulled up until their faces were mere centimetres apart. “What’s wrong?” Arthur asked softly, his breath warming Merlin’s face.

“Kings should never be on their knees,” Merlin said firmly, ignoring the pleasure that shot through him at the very thought.

Arthur chuckled and rolled his eyes, placing a gentle hand on Merlin’s thigh as his other slowly freed his hardening cock. Merlin’s breath hitched as Arthur’s hand, calloused from years of wielding a sword, closed around him with unexpected gentleness. “For you, Merlin, I’d gladly walk on my knees.”

A violent shiver coursed down Merlin’s spine at the words, and he couldn’t help but lean into the sensations Arthur’s skilled hands evoked. It had been too long since he had felt this close to another, and the moment's intimacy was overwhelming.

Arthur leaned forward and nuzzled against the top of Merlin’s thigh, his breath ghosting over his cock, causing him to shiver as it rushed across the wet head. Merlin couldn’t help the strangled noise that escaped his lips as he pushed Arthur’s head off of his thigh before his hands flew up to cover his face as he felt tears begin to well in his eyes. 

He grabbed a pillow and hid his face in it, covering the rest of it with his arm. With his other, he reached down and started to run his fingers up and down his chest, sharp nails catching on a nipple, leaving him to buck into Arthur’s hand with a groan.

Arthur squeezed and twisted his hand over the head of Merlin’s cock, causing a drop of pre-cum to weep from the tip. He gently took a finger and rubbed against the slit. Merlin’s breathing hitched, and Merlin knew he couldn’t take much more. “Keep doing that,” he gasped, his voice thick with need.

Arthur slightly altered his touch to firmly rub from base to tip, collecting the precum as it dropped and massaging it into the head and shaft. “You’re so wet for me,” Arthur leaned up and whispered in his ear. Merlin’s toes curled in his boots, and he bit back a moan. It was too much, yet not enough, as his body yearned for more.

“I-I’m close,” he managed to ground out, his fingers pulling at his hair.

“Come for me, Merlin,” Arthur whispered in his ear, and it was that, the tender way Arthur spoke his name, that sent him over the edge.

Merlin’s climax crashed through him like a tidal wave, and he arched his back, crying out as pleasure surged through every fibre of his being. The world seemed to momentarily swirl around him as white-hot ecstasy coursed through his veins, and he barely registered the vial pressed against the tip of his cock.

The room fell silent as he panted for air. He squeezed his eyes shut, but it did nothing to hold back the tears that began to fall from his face. When he opened his eyes, he saw that Arthur was looking at him with an expression he couldn’t quite place.

As his breath steadied, his chest rising and galling with a pace that slowly returned to its usual rhythm, he righted himself, feeling the familiar pull of his protective facades snapping back into place as he sniffled and wiped his face one last time. Avoiding Arthur’s gaze, he forced a cheerful tone. “We should get back to Gwen.”

Arthur’s concern still lingered in his eyes, the intensity of the moment they shared hanging between them, but Merlin deftly manoeuvred past it. He wasn't about to let Arthur see how profoundly the act had affected him— not when this was to give him and Gwen the thing they wanted most in the world.

"Merlin," Arthur started, but Merlin raised a hand, halting any words that might further strip away the layers he hastily rebuilt.

"Really, Arthur. Gwen needs us," Merlin insisted, the smile plastered on his face, not quite reaching his troubled eyes. With an unsteady step, he grabbed the vial from Arthur’s hand and moved towards the door, eager to distance himself from the intimacy of the antechamber.

Gwen awaited them on Arthur’s bed. She sat cross-legged, embroidering something into a thick leather band resembling what Arthur sometimes wore around his wrist. She looked up and smiled at him softly, gently putting what she was working on to the side to give him her full attention.

“Feeling relaxed?” He asked lightly, coming up beside her and sitting on the bed.

“Of course,” Gwen replied. “I trust you, Merlin.”

He nodded and rolled the vial in his hand before he began, taking one more silent moment before things changed forever. 

Merlin began the incantation with practised movements, his fingers weaving through the air as ancient words flowed from his lips. A warm glow emanated from the vial, casting dancing shadows upon the stone walls. 

Arthur had gone to sit on Gwen’s other side and grabbed her hand, watching Merlin carefully as he completed the ritual. The magic swirled around them, and the trio fell silent as they waited, the seconds stretching into an eternity. The vial suddenly shone with a brilliant burst of light, marking the success of their endeavour.

Arthur and Gwen laughed, unbelievable huffs as they stared at her womb that was confirmed to now be with child. Merlin couldn’t help but mirror their reaction, although he much felt like sobbing in relief. Thanking any deity, he could say that he didn’t have to go through the routine again, and he didn’t think he would be able to do it a second time. 

“Do they have magic?” Gwen asked softly, holding her hand protectively over her womb.

Merlin closed his eyes and listened, feeling the pulse of magic around him. It was faint, but he felt a slight tug of magic coming from Gwen that he never had before.

“Yes,” he confirmed. “It is hard to tell how much they’ll have right now.” He smiled tightly, “Although, even a small amount of magic will keep you on your feet.”

“I’ve had good practice,” Arthur smirked before reaching down and pulling Merlin to his feet. Merlin stood uncertainly when suddenly he found himself enveloped in a tight embrace, first from Gwen, whose gratitude was palpable in every line of her body, and then Arthur, who wrapped strong arms around them.

"Merlin," Gwen began, her voice thick with emotion, "I don't know how we can ever repay you for this gift."

"Your happiness is payment enough," Merlin replied, the words barely above a whisper. His face was still partially concealed behind his hands as he fought to master the surge of emotions that threatened to overwhelm him.

"Still, we owe you more than words can say. You've given us hope, Merlin—hope for a future that seemed out of reach."

Merlin buried his face in Arthur’s neck, trying to hide the tears he was trying and failing to keep from falling. “We owe you everything,” Arthur whispered in his ear as he pressed his forehead to Merlin’s temple. 

“Anything for you,” Merlin said lightly, subtly rubbing his face against the cloth on Arthur’s shoulder before pulling away. “I’m going to go to bed; this took a lot out of me.” 

"Of course, Merlin," Arthur said, concern lacing his tone as he observed the sorcerer's sudden, weary posture. "We will see you in the morning."

“Good night, Merlin,” Gwen said with a wide smile.

“Goodbye,” he managed to say, his voice steady despite the fatigue that dragged at his limbs like chains. He offered them a smile that was more tired than joy, unable to give them anymore. He only hoped Arthur was too distracted to read through him.

He paused with his hand on the doorknob and turned back one last time to look at them. Arthur and Gwen were huddled together on the edge of Arthur’s bed, their hands pressed to her stomach and their smiles bright. 

With a deep breath, he nodded to himself and stepped out into the corridor, the click of the door closing behind him echoing like a final note in a long and arduous symphony.

Merlin made his way through Camelot's dimly lit stone corridors, his steps slow and reflective. The torches flickered on the walls as he passed, casting shadows that matched his tumultuous emotions. With his possessions over his shoulder, he allowed his feet to take him to his final destination before he left Camelot for good.

Gaius’ chambers were as familiar to Merlin as his own heartbeat, a sanctuary within the vastness of the castle, second only to Arthur’s chambers. Pushing open the door, he saw Gaius bent over a scroll, his brow furrowed in concentration. The old man looked up, his gaze sharpening upon seeing the weariness in Merlin’s features.

"Merlin, what is it?" Gaius asked, concern instantly flooding his voice.

"The ritual... was successful," Merlin began his voice a low murmur that carried the weight of his relief and exhaustion. Gwen is with the child."

Gaius rose from his seat, a smile blooming on his face. "That's wonderful news, truly," he said, clasping Merlin's shoulder affectionately. "And the magic?"

Merlin hesitated for a fraction of a moment. "They have at least a small portion of magic. I was able to feel it already. This means I need you to guide them, Gaius. Teach them to harness their power, to use it wisely."

"Of course," Gaius nodded, his eyes narrowed slightly, reading something unspoken in Merlin's stance. "But you speak as if you won't be here to see it yourself."

Merlin's gaze dropped to the floor, his hands clenching into fists at his sides. When he lifted his eyes again, an implacable resolve was within them. "I am leaving Camelot," he declared, the words resolute yet thick with emotion. My path... it lies elsewhere now."

"Merlin, you can't mean this," Gaius protested, the distress evident in his voice. "After everything, you would turn your back on Camelot? On Arthur?"

"It's not a matter of turning my back," Merlin's response was swift, tinged with sorrow. "It's about being needed elsewhere. There are rumours that Cenred’s up to his tricks again, taking young sorcerers from their parents and turning them into slaves. I must put a stop to it, and I cannot stay tethered to Camelot’s gates if I want any chance of doing so."

"Reconsider this," Gaius implored, reaching out as if trying to anchor Merlin to the present physically. "You can’t go off to fight a war alone, and you are needed here in Camelot with Arthur."

"Arthur has his queen and, soon, an heir," Merlin countered, his tone gentle yet unyielding. "He is no longer the young prince who needed guidance at every step. And you, Gaius, you are more than capable of guiding him in my steed. Should the need arise, seek help from the Druids. They will help if they know I sent you."

"Merlin—"

"Promise me, Gaius," Merlin interjected, his eyes locking onto those of his mentor. "Promise me you'll look after them."

"I promise," Gaius acquiesced, the fight draining from him as he recognised the finality in Merlin's decision. "But my worry is not who will look after them but who will look after you."

Merlin scoffed, “I don’t need looking after.” He paused and sighed heavily, “I thank you for everything. I wouldn’t be where I am today without you.”  Merlin said, his voice barely above a whisper, imbued with a lifetime of gratitude and unshed tears. With a last lingering look, he turned and strode from the room, leaving behind the flickering torchlight and the man who had been his teacher and anchor.

As he walked through the corridors and out the castle entrance, he thought of the countless mornings awoken by the bustle of servants, the late nights spent pouring over ancient texts with Gaius, and the stolen moments of quiet conversation with Arthur under the stars. He couldn’t help but stop once he was at the castle gates and stare up at the castle, unable to hold back the tears that fell. He laughed wetly, with how many times he’d cried that evening. He could hear Arthur’s voice in his mind calling him a girl.

"Goodbye, my friend," he murmured, not sure if he addressed the castle, its people, or the memories they held. With a finality that resonated in his core, Merlin stopped before the gate when he caught sight of the two shadows waiting for him.

“Are you ready to go, Merlin?” Lancelot asked softly, and Merlin turned back towards the castle one last time, strengthening his resolve.

“Yes… let’s go.”  And with that, he strode through the gates of Camelot with his two close friends at his side, his silhouette melting into the misty dawn, ready to embrace whatever trials awaited him beyond the safety of the kingdom's walls.

~o0o~

It was rainy that morning; the firelight from the fireplace spilling across the stone floor of Arthur’s chambers did nothing to warm his chambers. There was a knock at the door before it slid open, revealing George, his footsteps confident as he strode into the room with Arthur’s breakfast. 

“George?” Arthur’s brow furrowed in surprise as he peeked out from behind the changing partition, his blue eyes searching for Merlin’s absent figure. “Where is Merlin?” he stepped out from behind it, straightening his shirt and approaching the table.

“I am not certain about Merlin’s whereabouts, Sire,” George said, setting the tray down with a clatter that still disrupted the morning. “I received word this morning that I was to attend to you until further notice.”

Arthur’s hand paused mid-reach for a piece of honeyed bread, a flicker of concern passing over his face before he dismissed it with practised ease. “Very well,” he conceded, but he certainly wasn’t happy about it. Merlin was wont to the occasional and unexplained absence. He picked up the bread and bit into it without further comment, barely glancing at the sealed parchment lying innocently beside his plate. 

He would never admit it, but he jumped when Gwen burst through the doors, her breath coming out in short, urgent gasps. Her distress sent a jolt of alarm through Arthur, causing him to drop his bread. 

“What’s wrong?” 

“It’s Merlin,” Gwen said, her voice barely above a whisper, his brown eyes shimmering with unshed tears.

“What’s happened to Merlin!?” Arthur asked frantically.

“He’s gone.”

“Gone, what do you mean he’s gone?” Then, he noticed the note clenched in Gwen’s shaky hands. 

His fingers closed around the crumpled parchment and pulled it towards himself. His eyes quickly scanned the familiar script that scrawled across the page, each word etching itself into his mind.

“I write to you with a heavy heart,” he read aloud, incredulity colouring his tone. “I realise that notice of my absence during this profound moment in your lives will likely cause you disappointment and perhaps some sorrow.” Arthur coughed, feeling his throat tighten, and thought it best to continue reading silently. 

Should you find yourself in need of guidance regarding your child’s gifts, I Implore you to seek the wisdom of the Druids. Tell them Emrys sent you. I cannot express how deeply I regret not being there to offer guidance myself, especially knowing the weight of responsibility that rests upon your shoulders now. Please believe me when I say I have the utmost faith in both of you as parents. The love and dedication you have shown me, not to mention countless others and yourselves, will undoubtedly shape your child into a beacon of hope and strength that will carry forth the noble legacy of Camelot that you and Arthur have courageously upheld. I apologise that I will not be there for the birth of your child nor to watch them grow. Please know that though I am not physically there with you, my thoughts will remain with you, Arthur and your child.  With heartfelt apologies and sincerest wishes for your happiness and prosperity, Merlin

Arthur breathes out a shaky breath and goes to sit at the table. His arm reaches out to grab his water goblet when his wrist brushes against the parchment by his plate. He frowns and opens the letter. It contains only two simple sentences.

I can’t stay. I’m sorry. Merlin

Arthur’s fingers trembled as they crumpled the edges of the parchment, his heart stuttering in his chest. The short message, stark against the creamy background, blurred before his eyes as a maelstrom of emotions surged within him—betrayal, confusion, and an aching sorrow clawed at his throat.

“Merlin,” he whispered, the name a plea and a curse all at once.

He rose abruptly, his chair scraping harshly against the stone floor. With swift strides, he made for the council chambers, snapping at the guards there that they were to gather the Knights of the Round Table immediately. The Round Table loomed as he entered, its polished surface reflecting the flickering torchlights— what was once a beacon of unity was now shadowed by absence.

As the others filed in, he noticed two notable absences. “Where are Sirs Lancelot and Gwaine?” he demanded, his voice ringing through the room. 

Sir Leon stepped forward, solemnity etched in his features. In his outstretched hands were two sealed parchments, their wax seals broken. “They sent these this morning,” he said, his tone laced with regret.

Arthur snatched the parchments from Leon’s grasp, eyes scanning the words. “Resignations, they’ve gone with Merlin.” On the one hand, he was devastated to lose not only one but three of his closest friends, but on the other, he was grateful to Lancelot and Gwaine for not allowing Merlin to leave Camelot on his own. But despite the gratefulness, he still couldn’t help but wonder why. What had caused the three of them to leave Camelot?

“Prepare the horses,” Arthur commanded, his resolve hardening. “We ride at once.”

“Arthur,” Leon began cautiously, “Should we not consider—”

“No!” Arthur cut him off sharply. “We will find them all and bring them home. Camelot needs them.” I need them. 

He turned his heel, the cape behind him whispering across the stone floor as he strode from the table to prepare for the journey.

“Sire, if Merlin wishes to remain hidden, even the combined forces of Camelot will not be able to find him.”

Arthur stopped abruptly, his back to Leon. The muscles in his jaw clenched visibly. “I know Merlin’s heart, and it is one that beats in tandem with Camelot’s,” he said, his voice low but laced with intensity. It beats in tandem with mine.

“Perhaps it would be kinder to let him go,” Percy ventured, joining them with Elyan at his side. His voice was gentle. Understanding, yet it grated against Arthur’s resolve like a whetstone.

“Kinder?”Arthur spun around, his blue eyes ablaze. “Merlin is more than just our court sorcerer— he’s my… confidant, my closest ally.” He took a shaky breath, steadying himself against the emotions threatening to spill forth. “I can’t— I won’t— do this without him.”

The journey to Ealdor was undertaken with haste, leaving no room for doubt. The gallop of hooves, which pounded against the earth and stirred clouds of dust that rose like spectators in their make, could be heard for miles before they were at the treeline of the small village. Arthur rode at the forefront, his golden hair gleaming beneath the brim of his helmet, eyes fixed on the path ahead with steely determination.

Upon arriving, the familiar sight of Hunith’s cottage emerged from the soft mists of early dawn. She stood there as if she had been awaiting their presence, her face tight with worry.

“Arthur,” Hunith greeted, pulling him into a hug. She lifted herself on her tiptoes and kissed his forehead before moving away. Her voice was strained, her muscles tense with evident fear. “Merlin came through here last night.”

“Where did he go, Hunith?”

“Essitir.”

Arthur’s heart sunk links a stone in the depths of the ocean. “He’s gone to Cenrad’s castle?”

“To stop the war,” Hunith said with a grave nod. “As you’ve likely heard, the war between the castle and the magical beings of Essitir has taken a dire turn. He’s enslaving children from druid camps, erasing their memories and making it so they know nothing but of war.”

Of course, he had heard. It’s one of the only things Merlin had taken to talking about. Arthur knew he had been in talks with druid leaders about what their next move would be. Arthur had offered refuge to those who needed it, but they had to get into Camelot territory for it to come into effect. From what they had heard, Cenred had been making sure that none of them made it into the territory. 

“Merlin believes it’s his duty— as Emrys— to intervene.”

“That idiot,” Arthur breathed, his pulse quickening at the thought of his friend amidst the chaos of a magical battle with only Lancelot and Gwaine at his side. His hands clenched at his sides, the leather of his gloves creaking with the force of his grip. “And you let him go?” he demanded.

“What choice did I have?” Hunith says painfully. She glared up into his eyes, determination in her gaze. “You bring my son home safe, Arthur Pendragon.”

“Upon my honour,” Arthur vowed. “I will not rest until Merlin is safe and sound at home. 

He turned on his heel, his cape swirling behind him as he returned to his knights. The brisk air bit at his cheeks as he steered them, racing towards Essetir Castle.

The castle loomed ahead several candle marks later, its foreboding silhouette a stark contrast against the twilight canvas. 

“Prepare yourselves,” Arthur called, his voice cutting through the evening hair like a blade. He steeled himself, unaware of what would await them once they crossed the castle walls.

~o0o~

“Secure the perimeter,” Arthur commanded, watching as his knights dispersed. Their movements were methodical as they examined each still form that littered the ground, searching for survivors among Essetir’s fallen knights. 

Arthur’s heart pounded against his breastplate, a relentless drum that spurred him onward. With each step, he felt the oppressive weight of dread squeezing tighter at the possibility that Merlin might be found among the fallen.

“Please don’t let him be here,” he whispered to himself as his eyes scanned the sea of bodies, seeking the sorcerer's familiar dark hair and bright eyes. 

"Sire!" Sir Kay called, his tone laced with urgency but not despair—a sign that gave Arthur a sliver of hope. He strode toward the knight, feeling every echo of his plated boots resonate within the hollow chambers of his chest.

"Report," Arthur demanded.

"No sign of Merlin, Sire," Sir Kay responded, his face alight with relief. "He is not among the casualties. Nor are Sirs Gwaine and Lancelot,” he tacked on at the end.

A silent exhale escaped Arthur’s lips, the tension in his shoulders ebbing away. “Then we continue our search,” Arthur declared his words, a clarion call that rallied his knights once more. "Merlin and the others are here, somewhere. And we shall find them.”

They swept across the castle’s shadowed corridors, and the pungent scent of blood and smoke permeated the air, but when they listened closely, they could hear a murmur of voices that drew them toward the counselling chambers.

Arthur signalled his men to pause, his hand raised for silence. They edged closer, the murmuring growing clearer until they stood before the imposing oak doors of the chamber. With a nod from Arthur, he and Leon gently pushed open the doors.

The sight before them gave them pause. Merlin sat at the head of the table, surrounded by druid leaders whose faces Arthur remembered from treaty meetings the past couple of years. A dragon circlet rested upon Merlin’s brow, starkly contrasting his simple clothes. Merlin grimaced and shifted it as he spoke, obviously uncomfortable with it on him. Lancelot and Gwaine sat at either side of him, sharp eyes observing the meeting.

It wasn’t until Gwaine had leaned down that Arthur noticed the small girl cradled in Merlin’s arms. Her hair, as dark as a raven’s wing, stood in stark contrast to the white swaddling he had her in. Even from a distance, Arthur could see how her tiny fingers grasped at the air, unknowing of the chaos around her.

“What do you plan on doing with her?” Gwaine asked, brushing his fingers across the baby’s forehead. 

“I’ll adopt her,” Merlin said softly, each word deliberate, “since I killed her mother.” He looked up then, his blue eyes locking with Arthur’s. “Hello, Sire.” The words were tinged with a melancholy that only served to deepen the furrows on Arthur's brow. His heart hammered against his chest as he stepped forward.

"That is all you have to say to me?“ Arthur's voice came out sharper than he intended, a byproduct of the worry gnawing at him. “You up and leave Camelot, and when I find you, it’s amid a war with a baby." The confusion and betrayal bled into his words, mingling with an anger he couldn't wholly suppress.

Merlin's snark was immediate, a defence mechanism honed through years of banter. "Technically, you found me on the successful side of a war." He tilted his head, a wry twist to his lips that failed to reach his eyes.

"Merlin," Arthur started, his tone brooking no argument, "don't play the semantic game with me. You need to come home."

The room held its breath, waiting for Merlin's retort. Yet what came was not a quip or a jest but the calm, measured tone that Arthur knew presaged gravity. Merlin glanced down at the babe, whose dark eyes had fluttered open. He cooed softly, a gentle hushing sound, before lifting his gaze to meet Arthur's once more.

"There's nothing for me in Camelot anymore," Merlin began, his voice clear and steady. "We have to rebuild Essiter. It can't be without a king for long. As I am Emrys, I offered to take over at least temporarily." He cradled the child closer to his chest, protective and resolute. "We will build it into the magical kingdom it is supposed to be."

Arthur felt a piercing pang in his chest—was it loss, fear, or something else entirely? Merlin's words echoed in the chamber, a haunting melody of finality that threatened to sever the bond they had forged. The future of Camelot, the weight of his crown, it all paled beside the realization that the man before him, the one he trusted above all others, the keeper of his secrets and his unspoken desires, might just slip away like mist at the break of dawn.

"Merlin," Arthur's voice cracked slightly, betraying his desperation. "You've always been the one to guide me, to stand with me against whatever darkness threatened Camelot. I have needed you before, but I need you by my side now more than ever." His plea lay bare, stripped of the regal veneer that usually cloaked his words.

The knights around them shifted uneasily, the weight of their king's vulnerability as palpable as the tension that thickened the air. Merlin regarded Arthur with a poignant stillness in his eyes.

Rising from his seat, Merlin gently placed the baby into Gwaine’s arms. The knight's usual playful demeanour was subdued; his brow furrowed with concern at the drama between his king and friend unfolding.

Merlin walked over to Arthur, his movements deliberate, each step seemingly heavier than the last. He stood before the king, close enough to touch, reassure, and mend what was broken. Instead, he reached out with tender precision, straightened Arthur's rumpled chainmail, smoothed down the fabric of his cape with a careful hand, and finally adjusted the disarray of golden locks that crowned the brow furrowed with worry.

"You don't need me anymore," Merlin said softly, his voice laced with a quiet strength. In his eyes, there flickered the merest hint of power, the depth and wisdom of a sorcerer who had seen too much, felt too much, sacrificed too much.

Arthur's heart clenched at those words, at the resignation they carried. But he could not—would not—accept this decree. Not from Merlin. His hands itched to grip Merlin's shoulders, shake him, awaken the bond that surely couldn't have faded like the embers of a dying fire.

"Merlin," he began, the name a prayer, a command, a plea. But the words that would follow remained unspoken, trapped within the confines of a throat tight with emotion. Arthur Pendragon, King of Camelot, stood face to face with the man who had shaped his reign, who had saved his life time and again, who had become the very essence of what he fought for—and found himself at a loss for how to keep him.

"Merlin," Arthur repeated, his voice cracking with the strain of unshed tears. "That's not true!" The words burst from him like a clarion call, a desperate bid to hold onto something that was slipping through his fingers like grains of sand.

Merlin leaned forward, and for a moment, Arthur wondered if he would be granted reprieve, a sign that his plea had reached the enigmatic heart before him. 

Merlin's lips brushed Arthur's forehead, a whisper of contact that sent a shiver down Arthur's spine. A faint glow emanated from the touch, magic seeping into the gesture—a final gift or perhaps a silent apology.

"I'm sorry," Merlin murmured as he pulled away, leaving a lingering warmth on Arthur's skin. His voice was barely above a breath, yet it carried the gravity of an unchangeable verdict. "I love you, but it's for the best."

The simple words, spoken with such a gentle finality, shattered the last vestiges of Arthur's composure. To hear the confession of love intertwined with the thread of goodbye wove a tapestry of pain too complex to unravel. He watched, feeling hollowed out and bereft, as Merlin stepped back, the distance between them expanding more than just the physical space—it was the chasm of their diverging destinies.

Arthur was left standing amidst the echoes of what had been and what might never be, devastated and unsure of what the future held without the man who had become his compass in a world that demanded so much of a king. Merlin, his sorcerer, confidant, and cornerstone, had decided upon a path Arthur could not follow. And the crown upon his head felt heavier than ever before, a symbol of power that could not command the human heart.

[silverysongs]

quite a nasty ride

The ride back from London was terrible. Arthur’s ridiculous rhyme about the weather played in a loop in her head, and not for the first time did Guenevere curse the climate in England. Rain smacked on the top of the carriage, deafening when they passed under a copse of trees, and she closed her eyes against her pounding headache. The bruise throbbing underneath her eye and across her cheekbone kept her from leaning against the carriage wall.

Across from her, Sir Lionel sat scowling at the sword in his lap. She was certain he had his own bruises; she could see a line of dried blood trailing down his cheek even though his head was bowed. He hadn’t spoken to her except to apologize, profusely, face aghast, before they had set off again rattling down the road. As irritating and unpleasant as he was, she reflected, at least he had enough integrity to be remorseful.

Finally the noise of the carriage changed from rumbling to rattling—a sure sign that they were on cobblestones and not a dirt road. She couldn’t bring herself to feel relief.

Lionel dismounted first and then helped her down, surprisingly gentle. They made their way into the castle, painfully slow it seemed, or at least painful and slow. Her head still ached, and she had a suspicion that Lionel kept her hand tucked into his arm on purpose so that she wouldn’t stumble.

“Where to, ma’am?” he asked quietly.

She sighed. “The king’s office, Lionel.” She didn’t say thank you and he didn’t bristle like she thought he might.

They passed servants and knights as they moved through the halls, who watched their battered queen with wide eyes. She forced the corners of her mouth up to try and make an appearance of serenity, but she wasn’t sure it was very convincing.

Then Lancelot rounded the corner, and she felt a stab of dread. He stopped, bowed his head to her in respect, and then took a second look with narrowed eyes. “Your majesty—” he began.

“We were accosted by bandits on the road,” Lionel interrupted. “Entirely my fault. Which is what I’m going to relay to the king.”

“Your majesty—” Lancelot repeated, looking intently at her, but she held up a hand.

“I’m fine, Sir Lancelot,” she said, summoning the scraps of her imperiousness. “No need to hover. I’m retiring to my rooms as soon as we see the king.”

She meant it as a dismissal. He pressed his lips together very tightly, face a blaze of fury, but he nodded. “Sleep well, your majesty,” he said, and turned sharply on his heel back the way he’d come.

She had known he would be angry, and she was already exhausted by it. He had hated Sir Lionel since he joined the Table, and this would only made him hate Lionel more, which would create an even larger chasm between the English knights and their single French compatriot. And besides that, he would regret his anger—she could practically see him at the Table, shrinking himself to be smaller, shifting guilty glances her way—and he would treat her as though she were made of glass for the next few days, scared of hurting her more.

Lost in her thoughts, she was almost surprised when they reached the king’s office. The door was open, and she could see him at the desk, surrounded by uneven burning tapers, gnawing on the end of a quill. What a terrible habit, she thought, but even through her fatigue the thought was fond.

He looked up when they entered, smiling. “Genny! And Sir Lionel,” he said. “I didn’t expect to see you together.”

“It’s not for a happy occasion, your majesty,” Lionel said heavily.

The smile faded from the king’s face, and he rose from the desk. “Sir Lionel,” he said, suddenly very serious, “why does my queen have a black eye?”

Lionel cleared his throat. “We were coming back from the fair and we were attacked,” he said. “There were highway robbers, waiting for some unsuspecting carriage.”

The king didn’t take his eyes off her face. “And you were unsuspecting?”

She heard the note of danger in his voice. “Arthur,” she said tiredly. “It was raining, and it was growing dark. He fought all three of them off once they were on us. Don’t judge him too harshly.”

“On the contrary, your majesty,” Lionel insisted, “I take full responsibility for whatever punishment you would give me.”

Arthur gave a long and hard look at his knight. She couldn’t tell what he was thinking, only that like Lancelot, he was angry. When Arthur felt any strong emotion, he talked, and right now she could feel a tirade building. Please, she wanted to say, even though it was childish. Please don’t argue. Please don’t raise your voices. Just leave and let me go to sleep.

“I will think on it, Lionel,” he said finally. “I’m not in the best state of mind right now, and I’m afraid I’d be unjust. But I do thank you for getting the queen safely home.”

Lionel bowed his head. “Your majesty.”

Arthur watched him leave. His eyes flickered back to Guenevere’s face when the door scraped shut. “You could have been killed,” he said quietly. “They could have held you for ransom. Or taken you back to France.”

“Well, I’m here, aren’t I?” She was trying to be ironic but she could hear it fall flat.

His expression softened. “Let me look at you,” he said, taking her hand and guiding her to a chair. “Sit down. How did this happen?”

He was reaching a hand to her face, and she sighed. “When they jumped the carriage, one of the men slammed my head against the window,” she said. “I think they were trying to knock me out.”

He touched her chin, gently, and moved her head to the side so that he could see. Whatever he saw there, he winced at. “You’ll be a sight for a few days.”

“Do you know what you’re looking for?” she asked, scrounging up some dry wit.

“Believe it or not,” he said, peering at her hair, “when you’re fighting a war someone’s bound to fall off a horse. We all learned what to look for pretty quickly.”

His tone was light, but she bit her tongue. She didn’t want to think of the war. And horses made her think of the bandits, and she had determined not to think of them tonight, not when the memory still made her heart speed up.

He probed at her scalp and she flinched. “Sorry,” he said quickly. “You might have a headache in the morning, but you’ve got quite the goose egg, so I think you’ll be all right to sleep.”

“Thank you,” she said quietly.

His eyes showed surprise. “For what?”

“For not getting angry at Lionel,” she said. “For not starting a duel for my honor right here in this office.”

He smiled. “Believe me,” he said, rising and fetching a damp cloth, taking her face gently, rubbing the dried blood away from her face. “I’m angry, all right. In fact, I’m tempted to cancel the cattle show in London henceforth. Forever.”

“But?” she asked, then winced as he moved to her scalp. He stopped for a moment, and his hand dropped to her shoulder, steadying, almost as though he hadn’t thought about it.

“But,” he said. His eyes, so blue, and soft like water. “I was telling the truth. I didn’t think I would be fair to Lionel if I dealt him a blow here in this room.”

She had to bite the inside of her cheek very hard, to not show her disappointment on her face. “I see.”

“And,” he continued, focused again on her head, “besides all that, you looked exhausted.” His eyes darted to her face, very quickly, and then away.  

Now she was smiling, despite the stinging pain as he tried to be gentle with the cloth. “I see,” she said again in a lighter voice.

He worked silently for a few more moments, and then finally leaned away. She was sorry for the loss of him. “Well,” he said, “that’s the most of it, anyway.”

The relief must have showed on her face, because he smiled. “What a day you’ve had.”

“Wait till you hear about the cattle,” she said.

He laughed. “Come on, Genny. To bed with you. You can tell me about the cows tomorrow.”

[caer-gai]

Galahad is still dealing with the Grail Knight mindset TM and Lancelot would fight God for his son.

[merlinisnotover]

@whumptober day 1

“How many fingers am I holding up?” Merlin’s face swam in front of Lancelot. He’d taken a harder hit in the tournament than he’d thought. His head throbbed and his left arm felt like one giant bruise.

“I’m fine, Merlin,” Lancelot assured him.

“That was not an answer.”

“Three?” he guessed.

“Right, you’re going to Gaius. Up you get.”

Merlin lifted Lancelot’s arm over his own shoulders and stood, bringing Lancelot with him.

“You’re stronger than you look, Merlin,” Lancelot said. “Are you cheating?”

Merlin glared at him. “You’re lucky you’re injured or I’d have to smack you for that.”

“You wouldn’t, you like me too much.” The room was spinning a bit, he couldn’t be held responsible for what he said.

Merlin choked on nothing and quickened their pace.

After Gaius had checked him over in the medical tent, Merlin insisted he return to his room to rest, following him in to make sure he was comfortable.

“Merlin, I’m fine, really.” It wasn’t a lie, this time, he really was feeling a lot better. “You don’t have to take care of me.”

Merlin frowned. “Do you want me to leave?”

“Oh, well, no,” Lancelot admitted.

Merlin smiled and pulled a chair to the side of the bed to sit. “Good.”

Lancelot extended his uninjured arm, just a few inches, but Merlin met him in the middle and laced their fingers together.

“You scared me,” Merlin admitted.

“I’m sorry.”

“I forgive you.” Merlin raised Lancelot’s hand to his lips and kissed the knuckles tenderly. “Just heal fast, alright?”

“I’ll see what I can do,” Lancelot agreed with a smile. Really, a bruised body was a small price to pay if it meant he and Merlin could finally stopped dancing around their feelings, really.

“Sleep,” Merlin said.

Lancelot was asleep before the word was even out of his mouth.

[demitimelord42]

Merlin says goodbye to Lancelot...

Written for Merlin Bingo square A4 - Undeserved Reputation