#merlin protection squad

[drlettuce]

Gwen: you better not hurt merlin

Arthur laughing: I won't

Leon: don't laugh she's serious

Arthur:I-i won't ......

Leon: you better not Arthur

Percival: or else

Arthur: I won't........

Lancelot: you better king or not if you hurt him we'll make sure you'll never see the light of day again

Arthur: WHAT THE HELL ?!?! WHY DO YOU ALL THINK I'LL HURT MERLIN YOU'RE MY FRIENDS TO!!!!!

Gwaine: Nah

[hannahhook7744]

Fic idea where Gwaine post death sees all of Merlin and Arthur's adventures, and through pure stubbornness ends up waking up before Merlin ever ended up in Camelot.

Upon realizing how far back he is, he decides 'fuck destiny' because he's not letting his friends (all of them) lose everything and he's not letting innocent people die all over again.

Somehow his meddling reforms some villains (Morgause, etc), stops some people from becoming villains (Mordred and Morgana), saves his friends and their families, AND pisses off Uther and the overgrown lizard beneath the castle while doing it. Bringing Albion together several years ahead of schedule and giving several people the happy endings they should have had (and would have without Uther).

Merlin still has Will and Freya and his parents in his life.

Daegal, Tom, Elyan, and several others don't die.

Arthur and Gwen rule Albion happily, changing the laws with many people actually in agreeance.

Also Gwaine totally curses the dragon out earlier on , revealing he's from the future and confusing Merlin VERY much.

[mossmx]

18 for merlin game

18 - Favorite dragon

Aithusa, but I like them especially in fanon and AUs.

In canon they were SO DAMN cute as a new born, but in the next season it was just too painful to see them so signed by their suffering ;____;

(Merlin Ask Game Questions)

[tinyavenuesailor]

Crack Fic! Where Everyone thinks Merlin is the reasonable one.

Everyone loves Merlin and thinks he’s the sweetest person, who couldn’t hurt a fly. So, they’re all annoyed when they see how Arthur treats him. The King is constantly overloading his manservant with work, ordering him to do massive tasks and coming up with ridiculous excuses to keep Merlin from taking a break. So, the knights and others constantly try to find ways to pull Merlin away from Arthur’s side and give him a break but Arthur always finds a way to mess up their plans.

Gwen and the other maids sometimes try to help Merlin with his chores

Gwen: Arthur you can’t actually expect Merlin to clean the entire throne room by himself

Arthur: *shrugs* Yes. I’m hardly asking him much

Gwen: It usually takes five maids to thoroughly clean the throne room. It’s ridiculous to ask one person to do so much work and then, to place Lancelot as a guard to make sure none of us can help him. 

Arthur: Lancelot wouldn’t have to guard anything if you all weren’t so ready to disobey my orders. I said Merlin will clean the throne room ALONE and that is final

Gwen: I never knew you could be such a cruel person and to Merlin of all people

*Gwen storms off*

Gwaine, Leon, Percival, Elyan and some of the other knights try to steal Merlin away to the tavern to relax

Gwaine: Come on Princess. I’m sure you can survive one night without Merlin 

*Gwaine tries to pull Merlin to their side but Arthur grabs hold of Merlin and pulls him back*

Arthur: Need I remind you, Merlin is my manservant and doesn’t have time to play around. He still has very important duties to complete

Elyan: What could he possibly have to do at this time? Most servants have gone home for the day?

Arthur: Well Merlin is the King’s manservant as I keep reminding you and still have very important things to do

Gwaine: Like what?

Arthur: *pauses* For one, he needs to clean the mess he made in the closet

The knights: *trying to process the bullshit Arthur just told them* 

Arthur: *crossing his arms, 100% serious, daring them to challenge him*

Merlin: It’s fine guys really, probably next time *pulling Arthur and himself back into Arthur’s chambers and locking the door*

Or when something terrible happens to Merlin like the time he got kidnapped and everyone went into full panic

Arthur: *staring hard at Lance* Merlin’s been kidnapped?

Elyan: They ambushed us out of nowhere and before we knew it they were off with him.

Leon: Don’t worry sire, I’ll gather a search party immediately to have him found.

Gwaine: We’ll make them sorry they ever thought to mess with our Merlin

Arthur: *holding up a finger and turning to Lance again* Merlin’s been kidnapped?

Lance: ..... That is the story

Gwaine: Princess, have you not been listening. We need to hurry every second counts. 

Arthur: I heard, just wondering why he couldn’t have chosen a better day to get himself kidnapped

*Everyone gawks at Arthur in disbelief*

Basically, everyone thinks that Arthur doesn’t appreciate Merlin and that their cinnamon roll deserves better and formed a protection squad to help Merlin get the treatment he deserves.

Meanwhile in Reality....

Arthur knows about Merlin’s magic. He is fully aware of how powerful Merlin is and finally sees that his manservant isn’t an idiot. He’s just a bloody madman.

===In the throne room=== 

*Arthur and Merlin both staring at a dark purple swirling vortex on the floor*

Arthur: *takes a deep breath* Merlin, why is there a hole in my throne room?

Merlin: Well, it's not a hole. It’s a sort of gateway to the dark dimension.

Arthur: Oh, okay. Why is there a gateway to the dark dimension in my throne room?

Merlin: ..... I can fix it

Lancelot: Arthur, I heard you- *looks down at the menacing purple gateway on the floor and then back to Arthur and Merlin* 

Lancelot: Should I go guard the door?

===After Gwaine, Elyan and Percival tried to take Merlin out for drinks===

Merlin: You know we both could use a break. I am a bit hungry. Been a while since I had a drink too

Arthur: Well maybe, we can join them after you explain why my Uncle is tied up in my closet

*Arthur opens his closet doors revealing a tied-up and gagged Agravaine making muffled noise*

Merlin: You told me to get evidence that he was working with Morgana

Arthur: And your solution to that was to kidnap him?

Merlin: What better way to hear it than from the man himself? 

Arthur: What’s going to happen when people realize he’s missing

Merlin: Don’t worry, one memory wipe spell and he’ll be back tomorrow in his chambers like nothing ever happened

Arthur: You told me those spells were dangerous

Merlin: *laughs* Well, yeah, I’m not using it on us

Agravaine: *making muffled and panicked pleads to Arthur*

Lancelot: Sorry, Arthur, Gaius told me that Merlin needed m- *sees a tied-up Agravaine* 

Lancelot: *nods* I’ll go stand guard

=== Arthur, the first to find Merlin after his “kidnapping” ===

Arthur: *folds his arms and looks behind his manservant to see a trail of bodies* Kidnapped?

Merlin: Well they did try to kidnap me. I just decided not to resist. 

Arthur: *sighs* Is everyone dead?

Merlin: I was supposed to leave someone alive?

Arthur: *rolls his eyes* Come before I have to explain how my “innocent”, “weak” manservant took out a group of mercenaries.

Lancelot: *already standing guard* 

[grandmameredith]

EXCUSE ME fuck all of the others, the biggest plot discrepancy in all of BBC Merlin is the fact that the Knights of the Round Table, the Bestest Bros, literally the Merlin protection squad, just locked him up without a trial or question at all for arthurs poisoning in s5e7. ARTHUR. everyone knows they're in love.

idgaf abt anything else, this is without a doubt the biggest plot hole I've seen anywhere at any point in time.

[browneyesandhair]

Loaded March by Footloose

Description:

Captain Arthur Pendragon has put together the best team of specialists that the SAS has ever seen, but when his superiors assign Lieutenant Merlin Emrys as his communications officer, Arthur does everything to make him feel unwelcome. Arthur's job is to protect and guide his team through dangerous missions, and he worries that he can't do that when the newest member has a mysterious background and acts suspicious when he thinks no one is looking.

As their assignments become more dangerous, Merlin can't help but to use his magic to keep his team -- even his prat of a Captain -- safe from threats they couldn't possibly understand. But when they are sent on a undercover operation against a group of zealots intent on a magical apocalypse, Merlin needs to confront his fear of discovery and derision, and to finally trust his team with his secret.

Arthur and Merlin rely on each other for more than the sake of their mission. The entire world is at stake. When they learn -- from dragons, no less -- that they are prophesied to restore the balance of magic to the world, they fight on regardless of the outcome, because duty, honour and loyalty is a far stronger driving force than destiny.

The first in the series:

Radioman by Footloose

Summary:

The reason SAS Captain Arthur Pendragon can't keep a communications specialist in Team Excalibur because none of them are good enough. And then Lieutenant Merlin Emrys gets assigned to his squad, and Arthur does everything he can to prove that Merlin isn't good enough, either. Except he is.

Relationship: Merlin/Arthur Pendragon

Characters: Merlin, Arthur Pendragon, Gwen, Morgana, Leon, Lancelot, Gwaine, Knights

Additional Tags: AU - Modern Setting, Action/Adventure, First Meetings, Military

Notes: This is fascinating. The author did such an incredible job that I got through like 10 of the works in this series before I remembered to stop and eat something (that's an exaggeration). But really, this is so well-done and though I haven't finished it yet, it is complete. Highly recommend this!

(This is part of my year of recs. I'm trying to share some of my favorite stories on tumblr. I've set up a series of Soulmate recs for each month on the 15th, but these will be randomly dispersed throughout the year.)

[onceandfuturelesbian]

merlin fic where merlin and mordred are chill w eachother and are a secret magical crime fighting duo™️

well basically they just discreetly help out the knights in ambushes and stuff even tho mordreds also fighting as a knight

the round table and merlin are out on patrol and they’re attacked by bandits and they’re just doing their thing when merlin notices a group of sorcerers going after them and realizes the knights can’t take them alone

he yells for mordred who immediately finishes off his opponent and runs to join merlin

they block the group from reaching the knights and immediately start casting together, arms raised and eyes glowing

it’s super impressive and it’s obvious to the rest of them that merlin and mordred are extremely powerful alone, even more so together

out of the corner of his eye, merlin sees more people sneaking towards the group and moves his other hand to dispose of them

the knights r shook cause they hadn’t even noticed anyone else approaching

when The M Squad™️ (what i’m fondly calling merlin and mordred) is done protecting everyone, i think they should like high five and start complimenting the other (ie. mordred you finally got that spell right! wow merlin i hadn’t even noticed those other guys! etc etc)

i think the knights and arthur would just be like um wtf just happened

idk how to end it tho

merthur recommended but not required

[crazyk-imagine]

Hi I’m back again, I have a request for our dear Wolfman, again. Would you please write a 50 first dates ?

Thank you again for everything!

💛💛

Thinking of You

Pairing: (Henry Roth) Leonard "Wolfman" Wolfe (Henry "Wolfman" Ruth) x (Lucy Whitmore) Fem!Reader

Characters: Fem!Reader, Leonard “Wolfman” Wolfe (Henry "Wolfman" Ruth), Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, Nick “Goose” Bradshaw, Carol Bradshaw, Bradley Bradshaw, Tom “Iceman” Kazansky, Ron “Slider” Kerner, Rick “Hollywood” Neven, Marcus “Sundown” Williams, Sam “Merlin” Wells, Charles “Chipper” Piper, Mike “Viper” Metcalf, Bill “Cougar” Cortell, Charlotte “Charlie” Blackwood, Penny Benjamin

Warnings: Fluff, angst, this is cute, Leonard is adorable, reader watches out for herself, everyone is protective of the reader and it's adorable, no fisherman here, only ranchers and cowboys, small town vibes, Iceman and Viper are the best, Pete can't cook for the life of his business, few funny moments, few serious moments here and there

Word Count: 5,307

A/N: I am so so sorry for taking forever with this one. I did not forget it, I promise. It was a whole thing with trying to find inspiration and rewatching the movie for research. But it... is... done!!!

Viper still refers to Bradley as a baby because he is (in his eyes)

Charlie is the horny German lady which I find hilarious

Yes, I used the TGM Squad as the kids for everyone who had children in the movie

The guys all have a work past with Viper

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

He takes a seat at the counter, minding his own business as he reads a menu.

You smile as you walk inside, you always love coming here and not just because you get to see Penny and Pete, your favorite couple at the restaurant but because you get to make your waffle buildings.

‘Maybe today I’ll build a hut. Oh, and for the steam we can use coffee.’

Penny notices there’s a little pep in your step while she hands you a menu. “How are you doing, Butterfly?”

You giggle, “I’m doing just fine.”

She smiles and tells you your table is free.

He sees you enter the restaurant, sitting down in one of the empty booths in the middle of the row.

Penny turns around filling another customer’s coffee, she notices the looks he’s sending your way and needs to stop it before things can progress, you don’t need any more heartache (even if you don’t remember it today).

It would also save him from meeting your dad, who’s in charge of the port, Viper aka Mike or your cousin, Iceman aka Tom.

“I wouldn’t,” she tells him.

He furrows his brows and turns towards the waitress. “I’m sorry, what did you say?”

“You’ll only find yourself heartbroken if you try to pursue her.”

“What makes you say that?”

She purses her lips; she doesn’t find it necessary to tell him of your accident. But then she realizes he’s new and must be one of the few new cowboys that came into town.

“You’re gone for more than half of the year doing what you do. You’ve never met her but if you did and it was time to leave both of you would be crushed. Imagine how much that for a second.”

“Maybe she’d come with me.”

“She-” She sighs at the wound of glass breaking. “Excuse me while I go kick my husband out of the kitchen.”

“I didn’t do it on purpose, Pen.”

“Out of the kitchen, Maverick," a new voice says.

He doesn't know it, but it was the actual cook, Marcus.

He sighs, pushing the doors open, taking a seat beside the man. “Sounds like you did good there.”

The dejected man chuckles, “yeah.”

“Hey. You happen to know that girl sitting in the booth, would you?”

Pete glances over his slumped shoulder. “What’s it to you?”

“Woah. Woah. Why is everyone so aggressive? I was just asking a question.”

“A question that shouldn’t be asked.”

“Okay. Message received.”

“You seem like the type who won’t take no for an answer?”

Leonard chuckles, “am I really that transparent?” He chuckles to himself as he takes a sip of his coffee until he turns back to look at Pete and realizes how serious this whole thing is. “Oh, shit. Sorry, I just thought-”

“She wouldn’t go for a guy like you,” a voice says sitting on the other side of the rancher.

The two men angle their bodies to hear the man better.

Pete gives him a sarcastic smile. “Yeah, thanks for that, Cougar. We don’t need to give it any more ideas.”

“First off, it has a name and oh, she’s trying to make a door.”

The two look back and focus on you trying to get the finishing touches to your waffle house done.

He debates on walking over to you after hearing everyone’s warnings.

Clearly no one here wants to see anything bad happen to you if they’re this willing to stop him before he could try anything.

He pushes himself out of the chair, grabs a toothpick before heading over to you.

“Hey,” he starts off not to startle you entirely before sticking the toothpick in place, opening and closing the door to show you how well it works. “I thought this might help you a little more.”

You glance up at him, giving him a smile. “Well, then I guess the only thing I can say is thank you. To be honest, it probably would have taken me five minutes to figure it out, so again, I thank you for saving me from any potential embarrassment.”

Leonard lifts his hat, “I always do what I can to help a beautiful lady such as yourself.”

“Ah, I bet you say that to everyone you see then.”

He chuckles. This certainly isn’t what he was expecting when he walked over, it's different, nice even. “May I,” he gestures to the empty side of the booth.

“Please, I’d like to look a little less pathetic in front of, well everyone here.”

“I don’t think that’s possible.”

“You flatter girls to get them in your bed and expect that very thing to happen, don’t you?”

“Uh- well,” he stutters.

You shrug, “doesn’t matter now. I’m just happy to have some company even if it’s just for a minute or two.”

“Well, then I’m happy to be of service.”

You dazzle him with another smile.

This is different from the other times he's gone out with girls.

You lift your watch to check the time. “Oh, looks like it's time for me to go. Sorry,” you sheepishly shrug as you reach for your bag.

“Uh- oh, okay. Yeah, I guess it’s time I went back to work.”

You get up and barely walk past him when you stop. “Is that you?”

“Is what me?”

“The farm smell?”

His mouth opens into an “o” making it obvious he now knows what you’re talking about. “Oh, yeah. Perks of being a rancher. Sorry about the smell. I didn’t realize it was so bad.”

You shake your head. “No, it’s- it’s not that. It’s just- it's more of a comfort thing. It reminds me of my family because my dad and my cousin are in the ranching business, and this is- the smell of, well the farm, is basically what I grew up with.”

He nods, “okay, good to know I don’t smell too much like shit.”

You chuckle, shaking your head. “Happy to help but I seriously have to go now.”

“Okay.”

You head over to Penny and pay her before saying bye to everyone.

Leonard shakes his head once he sees your car leave. “She sure is something else.” He then heads over to his car, sneakily watching you leave.

-

He spends the night talking to Rick, watching his kids. “So, you gonna ask her out?”

“Me?” Leonard shakes his head, pulling Rick’s youngest, Javy, away from the fence before his beloved (crazy) goat comes over and towards the edge to scare the kids.

The rancher isn't going to have his headbutting, crossed eyed goat injure another one of his friends' kids (even if it's on them because they didn't listen). “I- no.”

“You like her?”

The kids’ “ooh” at their dad’s comment.

“What? No. She’s just- she’s... busy?”

“Excuses.” He pushes himself off the fence, “come on kids. Your uncle needs alone time to process the fact that he’s a wimp.”

The kids mumble wimp under their breaths as they walk by.

He’s left alone with his thoughts.

-

“Did she get offered any drugs today?” Mike asks his nephew.

Tom shakes his head, “no and you know she wouldn’t take anything anyway.”

“She wouldn’t know.”

The blond glances over at the older man.

“Don’t give me that look boy.”

Neither of them says anything else as they go their separate ways before going out to the garage so they can repaint the wall.

Nick and Carole walk to the open space, "hey guys."

"Do you know what got her in such a happy mood today?" Mike asks.

The couple glance at one another.

"When we went to get food, Penny said that one of the new ranchers came in and talked to her, but I don't know what happened," Carole tells him.

"A new rancher?"

She nods. "Yeah, he's the only one here who wears his hat twenty-four seven."

"And you don't know anything about this?" Tom asks Nick.

The mustached man narrows his eyes at him, "if we knew anything else we would have told you."

"I'm just checking, mother Goose. No need to get your p-"

Mike smacks his nephew on the back of his head. "Stop it. Nick take another roll and again, thank you for the food, Carole. If you could just-"

"Set it on the counter for later, I'd be happy to."

"How's life been with the baby?"

"It's been great. I know it makes her sad that we can't bring him around here. All they've wanted since they were kids was for their kids to be friends and hangout all the time."

Mike sighs, "yeah."

Carole sneaks up the stairs to check on you. She barely opens the door and sees you standing there, a smile breaks across her face. She's happy to know that you're safe and sound for another day.

-

The next day is a weird one... for Leonard.

He had no idea what was going to happen when he made his way to the restaurant, and he most certainly wasn’t expecting you to not remember him (and mean it).

Sure, he’s had a few girls say they don’t remember him but after some persuading and mentions of certain clues, they break, this time with you though, not so much.

A few minutes passed after you ran out until someone explained to him why he shouldn’t continue doing what he’s doing.

“Everyone knows but,” Penny sighs. “She was in an accident that killed her mom and left her with what the doctors believe to be permanent brain damage.”

That is the last thing Leonard was expecting to learn about you. “All those light threats make sense now.”

“Now that you know, are you going to keep trying to date her?” Penny asks him. "Because if you’re not and you break her heart, you can just leave now. We won’t tolerate that kind of behavior.”

He nods and finishes his coffee, coming up with a few ideas.

-

Rick lounges on his couch, as usual, and watches as his friend jots down a few things. “You must really like this girl if you’re so willing to do just about anything for her.”

Leonard shrugs, “I don’t think that’s it.”

“Well, you’re doing something really nice for her, someone you’ve met a few times. As for me, your best friend barely gets a birthday card.”

“You’ve been giving yourself your own gift every year.”

“Oh, yeah and what’s that?”

“Your kids.”

“Damn, you’re good.”

-

He sits at the counter in front of the kitchen, waiting for you to come in so he can ask to eat with you.

You enter, at the same time as always, greeting Penny and Pete before sitting down to look at the menu.

He stands up and walks over to you, “hey, is this seat taken?”

You look up from the menu, “yeah, that’s my boyfriend's seat.”

“Oh, it is?”

You nod, “and he won’t be happy to know that some random guy sat there while talking to his girlfriend.”

“What if we say we’re just friends?”

“Are we though? I mean, I don’t even know your name.”

“Leonard.”

“I wasn’t asking. Look, I gotta go.”

Everyone hears the commotion outside and runs out to see what’s happening, Penny and Leonard being the fastest to get outside when they hear your voice.

“It’s not- it’s October thirteenth.”

Nick slams his car door closed before rushing over, wrapping his arms around you, wanting to give you some kind of protection.

Leonard takes a step forward, ready to tell the cop everything when Penny gets to him first.

Pete grabs the cowboy, “you and Goose are gonna take her home. She needs to be with her family right now. She needs comfort.”

He nods, taking his words into consideration.

The boys get you into the car, but the ride home is a blur, you don’t even know if you’ve responded to Leonard.

-

Your father and cousin are outside before you know it.

"What happened?" Mike asks, taking in your state of distress.

Nick looks up at the older man with sad eyes. "She found out again."

He closes his eyes, rubbing his chin.

Tom comes to your other side, the two men helping you inside.

The mustached man stops the rancher before he could step any further onto his front porch. "I'm gonna have to stop you right there."

Leonard furrows his brows. "What do you mean?"

"You being here isn't good for her."

"What does that mean?"

"This is something we've done before. You have never been involved."

"How would you know?"

"You don't know her, and you don't need to concern yourself with her. I'm asking you once and only once. It's time for you to go."

The man turns around, not even waiting to see if he's going to walk away.

Nick peaks through the window, whispering, "what are you doing?"

Leonard rushes closer. "He kicked me out."

"He doesn't want her to be more heartbroken than she is. Are you here for her or for you?"

"What- why are you asking?"

"If you're here because you want to date her, I'll let you in. If not, you can turn your sorry ass around."

He didn't even have to hesitate. "Open the door."

The blond smiles and lifts the windowpane higher. "You said you'd open the door."

"I'd like to not have my ass kicked too bad, thank you."

He rolls his eyes and crawls through, listening to your cries as you listen to what you went through again.

"Can we- I want to talk to the doctor." You quietly hiccup, "I'm sure I've already talked to him but let me go again. Please?" You ask your father.

He nods and you all are off to the facility you were in for some time after your accident.

-

"It's the same thing I've told you before," Dr. Simpson finishes.

You nod, "I'm sure you have, and I appreciate you taking the time to explain it to me again."

Leonard and Nick were stuck talking to one of the patients, (ten second) Sam.

"Hi, I'm Sam."

They nod and introduce themselves to him and continue to do so until Tom grabs them by their collars, hauling them out of the building.

"You two idiots wanted to stay. Stop getting distracted."

-

Once you got home, you decided to go to your room and write in your journal, needing to process everything.

"Would it- could I go talk to her?"

Mike silently nods.

"Go get 'em, tiger."

Nick averts his gaze your dad's stern look.

-

He knocks on the door, waiting for you to answer as he removes his hat.

The door swings open.

You stare at him through your lashes. "What do you want?"

"To talk. Check on you."

"I'm fine. Go home. I'd say I'll talk to you tomorrow, but I'll forget you by midnight." You walk back into your room, leaving the door open.

He takes that as an invitation and enters. "I- uh-"

"I don't want you to feel like you have to stay after everything you’ve learned. I would understand if you didn't want to talk anymore."

"No!" He nearly screams before realizing his mistake and sits down. "I mean, I don't mind it. This- your twenty-four-hour memory is no problem. I- I actually think you're worth getting to know, every day."

You don't give him a verbal response as you nod, unsure of how to respond.

As you two bask in the silence, the other's downstairs are preparing for the next day.

-

“You coming to the garage or are you going to call Carole?” Tom asks him after his uncle walks out of the room.

“What do you think?”

Your cousin rolls his eyes, “still as lazy as the day I met you.”

“Hey, I am offended.”

“Good.”

Nick shakes his head, mumbling a variety of comebacks that he would never say out loud because he values his life.

-

Leonard reaches around, rubbing your shoulder, not realizing the time or what’s about to happen.

You wake, opening your eyes and start screaming, alerting everyone in the house.

Tom and Mike make it to your room in no time.

The older man hauls the rancher out of your room and out of the house. “I thought I told you to stay away.”

“You might have.”

“Then why aren’t you?”

“Sir, I really care about your daughter and honestly, the thought of showing her how much I care about her everyday sounds-”

“Like you’ve got some kind of ulterior motive.”

“That hurts. No, I mean, telling her every day that I care for her and making her fall for me again and again. I can’t explain it but, I know I’m the right guy for her. Everyone here cares for her and I’d like to count myself lucky enough to be a part of that community. I know you think I’m messing with her but that’s not true and even if you push me away, I will still be here and continue to stand by her.”

Mike has a lot to think about now.

He nods, “don’t come around today. She needs time to heal and take it all in, you hear me?”

“Yes, sir.”

“I’m sure I'll hear from you later. Now go.”

Leonard smiles as he leaves. He spends the day making a gift, as a precaution he doesn’t come by for a couple of days.

Leonard has a lot of things to think about.

If he stays and builds a relationship with you, he’s going to be putting his dreams on the back burner; something he’s had his mind set on for a long, long time now.

Can he, do it?

Is it worth it?

As much as it hurts him to think about, he needs to. But then he thinks of you again and it is.

He makes a mental note to email his response.

-

He knocks on the door and Tom answers it. “You’re back? I thought you decided to leave.”

The rancher shakes his head, “nope. Can’t get rid of me that easily. I- uh- I actually made something and I want to play it for her. I don’t know if it’ll help but, you never know.”

He steps aside, giving Leonard enough room to walk by.

“Thanks.”

You and your father enter the living room, seeing him placing the tape in the VHS player.

The tape plays before either of you could ask what's going on.

Your name flashes across the screen, drawing your attention along with mentions of the accident and Bradley, Carole and Nick's son who's four now.

You touch the scar hidden by your hair.

Tom stands back, waiting for what you decide to do.

Mike rubs his hand across his face. "Did you do this?"

He nods. "I did."

You take a deep breath and grab his arm, bringing him with you.

-

"Where are we going?"

You don't answer him.

"Should I be worried?"

You stop in front of your car. "Do you ever shut up?"

"I could."

"Do it now."

"Stop being mean to me or I swear I'm gonna fall in love with you."

You roll your eyes. "I need to talk to you, and I don't want to do it with my guard dogs nearby."

"Oh, sure."

He opens the door for you, earning a furrowed brow look from you.

You don't say anything as you drive to the one place no one knows about.

"Are we-"

"The accident site, yeah. I didn’t know that at the time but now that I do, it doesn't change the special value it holds."

"That's good." He turns to you, seeing the way you're staring at him. "What?"

"We need to end this."

"End what?"

"You know what."

"Honestly, I have no idea what you're talking about."

"Leonard-"

He cuts you off before you can continue. "You remember my name?"

"If you'd let me get a word in, you'd know that the only reason I know of you is because I have a journal. I've been keeping notes of everything, I just- I never realized it."

"And that means we need to not see each other anymore?"

"Exactly."

"Why?"

"You."

"I'm not following."

"You," you close your eyes, huffing through your nose. "You're so sweet and have been since we first met but you're going to get hurt."

"What makes you think that?"

"You've stayed longer than any guy ever has but to do this every day is just- I know it's a lot."

"It's nothing."

"See, that!" You point at him. "That right there is exactly why I'm ending this. You've got such a pure heart and I can't be the reason it breaks when you realize it's not worth it to stay."

"Who's to say that I'll stop feeling what I do?"

You avoid eye contact as your tears blur your vision. "You will, just like I know how my father and Tom are tired of it. They'll never admit it, but everyone has their breaking point and I think us meeting and seeing each other has pushed theirs. I'm really sorry, I like you. I do but I'm doing this to protect us."

You offer him a weak smile as the tears spill from your eyes and down your cheeks.

Before you leave to go back inside, you hand him your journal.

He pulls you back and kisses you.

Your first kiss with one another and it's amazing but can't last forever.

You pull away, walking inside with heavy steps; barely able to keep yourself together.

Tom nor Mike stops you, but they do make sure to call Nick and Carole, knowing you'll need a good day tomorrow even if you don't remember it.

-

Leonard doesn't come into the diner for a few days.

Carole sits with you at your job while Rick, Nick, and Pete drive Mike and Tom to see him off.

"What are you guys doing here?"

"We couldn't let you leave without saying goodbye," Rick tells him.

"That's nice but how do you know these guys?" Leonard points between the guys in the group.

"We used to work together before I decided to settle down," his friend explains.

"Is that what you've been telling people?" Pete asks, staring at the man with a confused expression.

Rick glances at the man, "what are you talking about? Of course, that's what I've been telling people. It's the truth."

Pete shrugs, "I just thought-"

"Thought what?"

Nick smacks the two across the back of their heads. "Alright you idiots, there's a time and a place to talk about this. Now is not it."

The two grumbled, rubbing the now sore spot.

"We came here to talk to Wolfman before he left."

"You told them?"

"We all worked for him," Rick points to Mike. "Of course, I'm going to tell them."

"Anyway," the oldest chimes in. "We're here to send you off but not before giving you this." He hands him a CD.

"Really?" The rancher asks, not understanding the sentimental thought behind it just yet.

Mike nods, "I think you'll like it. Check side B, song four. Everything will make sense after that." The older man walks away, letting the others take their time in following.

Nick pats Leonard on the back, saluting him before wishing him luck. "I wish you luck, my friend."

"I'm pretty sure you just jinxed me."

"That's for the theater and you're going to need it one way or another."

The rancher frowns.

Pete chuckles, "you really leaving?"

The blond shrugs. "What else can I do? She told me she doesn't want me, and I can't force myself into her life, you know. Whether she remembers me or not. I'm going to respect her decision."

"That's really nice of you, not everyone would do that."

"I keep telling you I'm not like everyone."

"And I understand why. You're going to do great, kid."

The man in the cowboy hat purses his lips as his brows knit together in confusion. "If I'm not mistaken, we're the same age."

"Potato, potahtoe."

"Not the same."

Pete smirks and slaps his arm before jogging to Mike's car.

"You really want to leave?" Rick asks, standing beside him, resting his arms on the fence. "Because I'm not buying this whole "I can do this" thing. I mean, from what I've heard it sounds like you love her but who am I to assume."

Leonard shakes his head, "you heard wrong."

"That's a load of bull and you know it."

"You'll never know."

"The kids are going to miss you."

"They'll find something else to occupy them."

“You know they won’t.”

“Whatever you say, man.”

Rick’s hand hovers over his friend’s shoulder, he doesn’t pat him like everyone else had (knowing he’ll be back in no time). “You’re an idiot.”

Leonard lets out a dry, “thanks.”

Tom gives him a knowing look, “you know I’m right.”

“If you’re just going to be a jerk, leave with the others. I don’t want to talk to you.”

“You said you were going to stay by her side no matter what. What happened to that guy?”

“She made the decision. She doesn’t want me around; thinks she’s going to save me from heartache or something.”

“You’re an idiot.” Tom walks away, leaving him with his thoughts.

Leonard shakes his head, not understanding half of what just happened; all he knows is that he’s offended. He hops in his truck, his heart heavy and mind full of useless thoughts; he places the CD in the car player.

Half forgetting he’s had the damn thing this whole time and never once thought to use it. He skips to the song Mike told him to play.

He’s barely on the road for ten minutes and gets out of his thoughts, his fingers stop tapping along to the beat on the steering wheel when he slams on the brakes. “Holy shit! Holy- no way. No way!”

His smile is as wide as can be. “I knew the old man liked me.”

He turns the car around and heads towards the office you visited when you were told about the accident again.

-

He runs through the door, trying to sneak in by the security guards before anyone can kick him out.

“Hey, where do you think you’re going?” He turns to face them, removing his hat.

He shrugs, not saying a word.

Maybe playing dumb would be easier?

The taller of the two stares at him with raised brows as his partner takes in Leonard’s appearance. “Go on in.”

Ron turns to Charles, “what’s wrong with you? What if he was a murderer or some psycho?”

“Did he look like a psycho to you?”

“No but-”

“But nothing. I got good vibes from him.”

“What did you smoke for breakfast?”

“I’m not answering that,” Charles says, checking the computer for today’s schedule.

“If someone gets murdered, I’m not protecting you.”

“Dick move.”

“Cya, man.”

“What?”

Ron pats his shoulder, “cover your ass. I’d remember that if I were you.”

-

Leonard runs into the room, eyes scanning all around and over anyone in the room, only to not find you, for the moment.

He wanders further into the room, tempted to ask around when he sees ten second Sam and decides not to, there’s too much time that could be wasted and he can’t waste a second right now.

You turn the corner, not noticing him as you help someone outline the outline of their sketch.

A voice calls out to you, and you turn, finding him.

“Hi? Do you- nevermind, stupid question. Could I- uh- could I talk to you for a minute?” He asks.

You know everyone here will be fine for a few minutes. You hesitate to answer him. “I- we can- just- just follow me.”

-

You two stand in your special art room. “Have we met before?”

His chin juts out. “What?” His eyes wander around the room, finally understanding.

“As you can see, I’ve seen you before. I mean, I know I’ve talked to you, but I don’t remember it. You- you haunt my dreams. I’ve seen us in my favorite restaurant, as if we were on a date and- and I don’t know if it was real or not.” He can see how it’s wracking your brain to try and remember something that won’t be there.

He nods, “we have. We’ve met a few times.”

“That’s all you’re going to say?”

He holds a journal in front of you, “if you really want to find out, read this. It’ll tell you everything.”

You stare at the cover, wondering if you should read it or not.

You hold it close to your chest and stretch your hand out for him. “Hi.”

He raises his brow but shakes your hand. “Hi?”

“We’re starting over.”

“Oh, that makes more sense.”

The door opens, “Hi, “I’m Sam.”

You purse your lips, trying to hold in your laughter.

“And our special moment has a little twist.”

“Leave Sam out?”

He nods, “we’re leaving him out.”

You nod and slowly remove your hand from his. “Hi, I’m Sam.”

“I swear to-”

-

You push open the door and cover your eyes when the sun hits you. Leonard turns around and smiles at the sight of you looking as beautiful as always. “Hey, you’re up.”

You nod, your eyes landing on your precious baby boy, Jake, pretending to be like his dad with ranching.

“How are you feeling this morning?”

Your daughter, Natasha, runs over to you with her arms open for a hug.

Everyone always says that a mother and her child share a special bond, in this case it’s true because you open your arms and scoop her up, holding her close to you, even if it is a little strange just finding out she’s your daughter after watching the video Leonard made for you.

“I’m okay, a little weird this morning.”

“I don’t blame you.”

You tilt your head up at him, staring at him like you’re trying to memorize his face. “I think Tom’s doing things he shouldn’t.”

He turns around, finding your cousin doing the exact opposite of what he told him to and hands Jake to your father so he can help your cousin from messing up his ranch (any more than he already has). “Son of a-”

“Language!” You and Mike shout.

“I wasn’t going to actually say it,” Leonard tells you two.

You and your dad share a look. “He’s your husband, you take care of it.” And he walks away.

“So rude,” you mumble to yourself.

“Hey guys!” Nick and Carole wave as Bradley runs towards Natasha (who hasn’t left your side until this moment).

You smile and wave back, hugging Carole tightly.

“Let's go inside and see what you have in your kitchen for breakfast.”

You lean in closer to her, whispering, “does he ever eat? I swear he is always raiding my pantry.”

“Fast metabolism.”

“I don’t buy it.”

“Can I tell you something?” She asks.

You nod.

“Neither do I.”

-

You, Carole, and Nick grimace at the sight of Leonard's friend and his coworker-

"Can they eat each other's faces somewhere else?" Nick mumbles. "I'm trying to eat here."

You and her share a look.

"You're still eating," his wife points out.

He shrugs. "I can't pass up when Sundown cooks. That'd be like disrespecting Penny."

Leonard walks through the door and grimaces. "You two need to stop trying to eat each other and enjoy breakfast. This is not what I imagined when I suggested you two go out."

Charlotte and Rick part from one another, offering weak apologies.

You and Carole can't help but laugh.

The rancher turns around at the sound of your laughter and knows that he wouldn’t trade this for the world.

[achillesuwu]

Back on my bullshit with merlin looking older because he is a gremlin (& because he DOESN'T want a Stephen 2.0. A 20 yo BABY trying to seduce you in the 15th century is more than enough.)

Arthur and the knights are getting slowly accustomed to the whole 21th century thing (it's a bit easier since Merlin is an old man ™ and thus his home isn't full on technology)

But, but,

From the pov of others people who are they? They are asshole.

How old is that very kind Mister Merlin Ambrosius? Who know but he is at last 90 years and none of those little fuckers went to see him in decades!!! Look how happy he is, Jeff!! They are just there for the money I tell ya!!! They barely help him when he carry not even his but THEIR groceries!!

So everyone decide that they are going to (metaphorically) kick their ass 😤😤

*cut scene with the greatest king and the best Knights of Albion getting an earful of 8 Grandma and 5 Grandpa and not being allowed to reply back or else they get the eyebrow x 13*

Meanwhile Merlin, in the back dying of laughter (the Protecting Our Old Man Squad think he id crying 😔 his great-grandchildren don't deserve him!!!) and saying from time to time "Yeah, respect your GrANdFatER"

(yes, Merlin is definitely going to talk about this to is dear great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-grandchildren and to Freya.)

[lemonadehtwooh]

Big Post for my For Funsies AU stuff

Hopefully I will remember to Update this every once in a while (>v<)b

Putting a cut for Length Reasons! Also we love how I procrastinated on making this for over a year :P

Before anything, feel free to ask me anything about my AU, as well as feel free to make drawing requests about my AU as well! I am also down to just draw Fate Grand/Order characters too! :3

Ao3 Account For Future For Funsies! AU Writing Stuff: lemonadehtwooh

(Note: This will be updated the same time I post the writing on Tumblr as well)

Writing for the For Funsies AU that's on Tumblr :3

Sorry I haven't posted any writing for the AU yet ):

Celebration post that contains Old Sketches of the AU/Beginning Stages of the AU

The Very First Post I Ever Made on Tumblr About The For Funsies AU Lmao

Romeo Angelo and Company:

Romeo's Design

More Sketches of Romeo's Design

Romeo Backstory Stuff

Roasting Romeo

Gabriel Utterson Old Design

Gabriel Utterson CURRENT Design

Alexander-Paris of Troy Design

Answer of a question about Hektor, Paris/Apollo, Penth, and Astolfo

Question about Odysseus and Hektor

Utterson skill and NP stuff

Santa Utterson Design

Silly Scolding HC

Sketches of Utterson's Gun and Monocle

Fun Facts about Utterson and the Creation of Him!

Dunky Donut. Because Ur Epic

Backless Suit Utterson

Very Old Hektor Design Sketches

Can Romeo Dance?

Drunk Romeo lol

The Two Idiots In Romeo's Mind Lore-ish stuff

Trouble sketching Hektor

Romeo Redesign sketches

Summer Paris

Height Comparisons

More old Hektor sketches

Merlin hates seeing Romeo breakdown (he is close to strangling Romeo)

Anatomy of a Romeo

Utterson Expressions

More Utterson Current Design

Jekyll's Poor Spine

Wizard Twink (Spider Man Pointing Ask)

Maple Von Roth and The Theater Cast

Maple Design

Maple's Tits

Old Sketch of Maple handing the viewer an L

Maple's True Form Concept Sketches

Jekyll/Hyde NP Rewrite concept

Jekyll/Hyde NP Rewrite Sketches!

Jekyll/Hyde Redesign

Old Opera Phantom Doodle That I Like

Opera Phantom and Maple Sketches

Old Rama Redesign Sketches + Info

Maple Design Sketches YIPPEE

Old Sketches of The Phantom of The Opera

Jekie and Hydie cool art Wow

More Maple Design Concept

Summer Jekie and Hydie

The Visiterrrrrrrr

Maple as Noel Gruber

Doctor Ishaan and His Trio

"I Am Losing My Sense of Humanity"

My Favorite Sketches of Enkidu

Enkidu Being Protective of a Sleeping Ishaan HC

Silly Mini Comic of Enkidu Forcing Gil to Carry Them

Doctor Ishaan and Doctor Mary Design Sketches and Notes Plus Angst Art of Child Ishaan

Height comparisons

Old Ishaan and Enkidu HC

Doctor Mary and The Dream Team

Billy joking and Accidentally Making Jack Cry

Dr. Mary redesign

Chance Finnick and The Chaos Squad

Chance Design sketches

Astolfo Design sketches

Nanda Lamprou and The Magic of Friendship Gang

Angst Animation of Arjuna and Karna

Animation of Lanyon

Doctor Lanyon Design

Old Lanyon Sketches

Matching Outfits

Trying to figure out Unnamed Master's concept

Nanda stuff 1

Arjuna Sketch

Cookie

Arjuna's thoughts about Nanda's lycantrophy

More Arjuna and werewolf Nanda

Maxxing out on Arjuna

Lanyon Sketches Again

Head Pats

The Beast of Calamity and Moriarty

How It All Started

The Beast/Apocalypse Design

Moriarty Sketches

Utterson X Sherlock Stuff

HC on How They Meet

Goofy X Catholic Guilt

"Why Does Sherlock Call You Babygirl?" (Old Ver., will be remade soon)

These Are Literally So Funny, I Love These Doodles, Why Did They Only Get One (1) Note

Silly Halloween Vampire Sketches

One of My Fave. Drawings of These Two Nerds

"Why Does Sherlock Call You Babygirl?" (Remake version)

GAYYYYYY

Hektor X Romeo Stuff

OC X Canon Week Pt. 1

OC X Canon Week Pt. 2

OC X Canon Week Pt. 3

OC X Canon Week Pt. 4

Weird Dream I Had Involving These Two Nerds

Misc.

Holmes Caffeine Addiction

Fruit Cake

Tiamat Drawing Ask <3

Gabriel Gay Lol

A Mutual's Fgo OC interacting With My OC <3

Baseball Batting Moriarty's Back Ask

Ea Nasir Design and Headcanons

"We'll Be Fine"

[adhd-merlin]

I would like to humbly suggest the Gwaine/Lancelot rarepair. I just think they’d make a good friendly rivalry situationship over who would be Merlin’s favourite knight/best friend or over who would be the knight second in command under Arthur (the answer is obviously Leon for that one but Leon just looks like an old man to them)

Also their chaotic energies would fit & enable each other rly well I think. Like Gwaine trying to get Lance drunk over in the tavern so that he lets loose & gets to see the chaotic side in him. Lancelot could be like a role model for Gwaine for what an honourable knight looks like (that isn’t nobleborn like Arthur) & he would definitely roast Gwaine into next dimension

(THEYD MAKE A CUTE PAIR OF DRINKING BUDDIES too)

That’s another thing they have in common too! They’re both commoners & have to get used to Camelot so it’d me nice to have each other, wouldn’t it?

And Lancelot would totally be the one to bodily hold Gwaine back when he lost his temper over smth someone said but would just go „let loose, Gwaine!“ if it was an insult abt Merlin. Like Lance would be holding the guy down & Gwaine would be punching him. Full on Merlin Protection Squad. And they’d be in that weird limbo together where they’re saying „yeah, I think Arthur’s a good guy but I was originally here for Merlin oops“

I just think these two would be fun. They are like the Benvolio & Mercutio duo just ribbing each other & vibin in the background while Romeo (cough cough Arthur) has his big dumb monologue.

And maybe Lance would also have like „easier access“ to Gwaine bc Gwaine is like one of the only knights who openly says like sassy/sometimes even anti-Arthur things abt Arthur. And like with Lance OF COURSE he has some pent up resentment against Arthur bc he got Gwen & Merlin is so willing to suffer for him too (I know Lancelot says he & Arthur are gucci & there’s no bad blood. BUT COME ON. Let Lancelot feel some human emotion expect for boyfriend perfection). And Gwaine would just be effortlessly joking abt Arthur & not let it sour his loyalty, and Lance could learn that it is perfectly fine & normal to not have noble & honourable knightly thoughts 24/7. that you aren’t judged by the worst thoughts you have abt somebody

Okay, word vomit over :)

YES. I haven't read any actual Gwaine/Lancelot fic but they'd make a great pairing.

They are Merlin's two favourite knights! They have such different temperaments but they have the same values! They care about the same things and the same people.

And yeah, Gwaine was a nobleman actually, but he's been acting for a commoner for so long that it hardly matters. (Actually he was a noble disguised as a commoner, while Lancelot was a commoner trying to pass himself off as a noble... THE PARALLELS BE PARALLELING.)

And Gwaine would just be effortlessly joking abt Arthur & not let it sour his loyalty, and Lance could learn that it is perfectly fine & normal to not have noble & honourable knightly thoughts 24/7.

I LOVE THIS. YES! He holds himself to such impossibly high standards, someone needs to tell him not to be so hard on himself 😭😭😭

And they both care about Merlin a lot so you could add him to the mix, if you wanted. Make yourself a nice OT3.

I think it's a crime that we didn't really get any scenes with Lancelot and Gwaine interacting in canon. A crime against me personally.

[sonicasura]

I just realized something. Breath of the Wild/Tears of the Kingdom Link can also fit the Past/Present/Future Squad too. He was literally made to train to fight by the King Rhoam at age 4! And that same old man came back as a spirit just to send him off with little context to clean his majesty's screw up sooo...

Link (Breath of the Wild/Tears of the Kingdom)

The Past member of the group and oldest(slept for a 100 years). He was immediately thrust into his destiny at four years by Hyrule's King Rhoam. Link is plagued by both severe amnesia and feelings of failure. He's the only person with the most experience in elixir brewing, bears various blessings from Great Fairies to fallen champions alongside able to use the Sheikah Slate. Shortest amongst the three with the height of 4'11.

His dynamic is a bit different when it comes to Jim and Jak here! BTW, he woke up with his changed arm so don't worry about any TotK spoilers! Only abilities mentioned are from the gameplay demonstration done weeks ago!

Link is like the glue between his fellow traumatized heroes. Great around machines with Jak and an amazing cook alongside Jim. He's also the one to design various clothing for Daxter as having a massive wardrobe requires personal maintenance lest they break.

Link definitely indulged in Blinky's intrigue with machinery. Using his new mysterious arm to craft various devices whether it be from car parts or nature itself. His biggest project is a massive carriage like train capable of carrying the troll exodus with little issue.

Link tends to experience flashbacks despite being in Jim's world. These episodes are intense as his eyes will glaze over and the worst ones he'll unconsciously reenact. Multiple times someone had to restrain Link before he hurts himself or someone else.

Like with his OoT/MM iteration, the Champion's adventuring skills led to an abandoned yet functional Heartstone for the trolls to set up shop. Unlike his other incarnation, Link was more involved in the construction of the new Trollmarket. He did help build Tarrytown after all.

Link is quite protective of his fellow brothers in trauma and more likely to throw hands than his other incarnation. Feral gremlin that will make someone's life hell with everything at his disposal. Link literally bit Merlin on sight and Daxter manage to catch a picture of the glorious moment.

Gnome/Goblin whisperer. Everyone except for Jak and Daxter were flabbergasted seeing Link just eagerly chat with both species like lifelong friends. Blinky learns that the 'dangerous pests' tend to hoard priceless or forgotten treasures since the Champion gets these valuables as gifts daily.

You can't tell me Jim and Jak didn't try on Link's various outfits. That includes the Gerudo outfit used to sneak into Gerudo Town. Outcome? Jim could pass off as female and Jak gets extra food since it became clear he hasn't recovered from the malnourishment of prison life.

Once a warp gate to his Hyrule is open, Link definitely introduced both groups of friends. Blinky adopted Zelda off the bat and both research various stuff together. Everyone agrees she deserves to be a researcher than be stuck with the princess life.

Link absolutely learned to swear in every available language. He mostly tends to swear in Trollish, Precursian, Goblin and Gnome. Link definitely ate troll food than just learn how to cook it. If he can eat rocks and dubious food then you can bet your ass the Champion would devour stolen sock stew.

Jim might've gotten adopted by the Great Fairies. I quote 'He bears a spirit just like us, a fae caught in multiple worlds.' His armor issues are not only fixed but so is Merlin's spell. Imagine Jak, Daxter and Link's reaction when a full troll(Not Beast Jim design)comes out of the Fairy Spring then shifts to a human Jim. Yup, he can shift between all three now with a sunlight immunity bonus to boot.

Link's troll form involving the Glamour Mask is much different from his other incarnation. A Krubera/Gumm-Gumm hybrid whose light peach hide is adorn in burn like black markings, jagged bull horns, armored tail and shaggy mane of golden fur that covers his entire back. Scary looking? Yes but still a feral sweetheart.

Every Link craves a cuddle pile and he's no exception. Blinky has multiple framed photos of the kids fast asleep holding each other. Jim's full troll form is the designated pillow/bed especially if he lays on his back. Link and Jak sleep like a koala right on their larger brother's scruff.

When the events of TotK begin, he has a lot more backup for the approaching battle. Troll allies who can help fight the onslaught in the night and Spargan comrades to assist in the day. For once, Link feels completely ready to face this evil with his fellow brother figures.

And that's it! Until next time folks, I'll see you back at the crossroads because Spargus, Arcadia and Hyrule.

@paradoxical-hermitcrab

[neptunesyellowsands]

Hmm idk. I think I disagree. Why do we blame Merlin for Arthur’s decision here, just because he made a suggestion? As a member of the Arthur Defense Squad, I also think Arthur is responsible for his own actions and choices. Merlin wasn’t any more certain than anyone else about Morgause’s motives, and Arthur knew that. In this moment, it was just a friend saying ��so-and-so didn’t mean it!” when you both know they MIGHT have meant it, but this isn’t the time or place to sort it out.

Maybe if he’d persuaded Arthur with a whole argument I could blame Merlin, but he just said one line that halted Arthur’s actions enough to not kill his father. I get that influencing someone is a powerful thing to do, but ultimately it’s Arthur who chose to listen to him. And Arthur has NO problem not listening to Merlin, he ignores his warnings all the time. He listened at this moment because he wanted to. Merlin said what he wanted to hear anyway.

One of Arthur’s biggest problems is that he never knows who to listen to/trust (Agravaine) and that burns him time and again. But that is really because he doesn’t know how to listen to/trust himself. We blame other characters for Arthur’s actions but he did them. He talked a lot about equality for all and then said “oh except people with magic.” He chose fear of magic over his duty to protect those citizens that had magic. Uther, Merlin, etc contributed but ultimately it was on Arthur.

So I can’t blame Merlin for this, he was trying to keep Arthur from doing something rash in the hopes he would later think it over properly before making a decision that would haunt him forever. I could be wrong! That’s just my opinion 🤷‍♀️

my unpopular merlin opinion is that merlin telling morgana he had magic wouldn't have changed anything but this scene did

I'm not saying because arthur would have killed uthere blah blah blah. uther could have as well lived, but if merlin left the seed of doubt in arthur's mind everything would have been entirely different. and that's the obvious part.

but I had also seen a genius tumblr post (if I can find it, I'll link it and tag the author) in which op was talking about how putting morgana on the throne was only morgause's backup plan. which makes perfect sense. on the one hand, morgana's quest for power is her demise: she gives up everything good in her life in favour of her greed and desire for the throne. something that she did not have before morgause set her mind on this plan. I am positive she would have much rather kept her safe and happy in a land where she can finally explore her potential without any violent coup than give away her life to never reach what she wanted.

on the other hand, arthur is the heir. no coup would have been needed and if he started thinking about magic in a positive light, he could have brought about the change morgana and morgause wanted without any desire for revenge (therefore, no violence or losses on either party). it would have been the perfect plan and morgause was clearly trying to achieve it in the sins of the father. it is no coincidence that we can see her reaction to arthur and uther's reconciliation.

I believe this episode is the real "beginning of the end" and merlin's biggest misstep, because every other that followed was a direct consequence of this moment, e.g. morgana being thrust into the role of magic bringer and going insane, the disir's judgement, kara's death, mordred's betrayal, etc. everything could have been avoided if in this moment merlin had just convinced him to put the sword down without taking away from arthur's talk with ygraine.

[girlfailuregawain]

The Secret Commonwealth, thoughts:

Finished reading this book today after listening to a podcast episode about Samhain/Halloween. I didn't plan for the two to coincide, but it was pretty interesting to listen to one person describing the historical revival of celtic traditions in the 17th century, followed by reading an account written by someone immersed in that revival.

I have to admit, although I am a religious person, it's hard for me to lend much credence to pretty much any of what I've read regarding parapsychology so far. I'm not sure I agree with all of Mr. Kirk's conclusions in his essay, any more than I agree with Mr. Evans-Wentz. One of these days maybe I'll write my own thesis. Hmm.

Le Morte D'Arthur, thoughts:

Merlin is a nerd among jocks, and the kings won't let him forget it:

I don't really blame them though, Merlin is inarguably Weird, in both the modern and middle English sense.

Mdzs vol 3, thoughts:

Nearly done rereading this one. Here's one of my favorite parts:

Wei Wuxian protection squad :)

[browneyesandhair]

Hey! It's ya girl! April Edition

I got no chill and a large obsession with a lot of things. So this year, I'm tracking it! Okay, so this year, is the year of recs! (you may have seen some of my posts, but I also have an extensive queue, so maybe not (check out the #recs on my page)). Running a little behind (it's already June, oops!)

Anyways, I've created a collection for this year overall and then also for each month! Let's check out April's stats -

Works read (&finished): 112

Fandoms (top 8):

1 - Bridgerton: 33

2 - Harry Potter: 28

3 - The Vampire Diaries: 16

4 - Young Justice: 15

5 - Les Miserables: 13

6 - Criminal Minds: 2

7 - Percy Jackson and the Olympians: 1

8- Merlin: 1

The rest didn't make the first drop down section of AO3, so oh well! Let's check in on relationships (top 8):

1 - Polin: 33

2 - Klaroline: 16

3 - Spitfire: 14

4- Enjolras/Eponine: 13

5 - Harmony: 9

6 - Hinny: 5

7 - Roy Harper/Jade Nguyen: 4

8 - Dick Grayson/Zatanna Zatara: 2

Quite a few recs that were reread/added to the list this month:

Harry Potter:

The Changeling by Annerb

Summary:

Ginny is sorted into Slytherin. It takes her seven years to figure out why.

Sequels also read: pick it up, pick it all up and start again, we can still be, who we said we were, and in my head we do everything right

Six Pomegranate Seeds by Seselt

Summary:

At the end, something happened. Hermione clutches at one fraying thread, uncertain whether she is Arachne or Persephone. What she does know is that she will keep fighting to protect her friends even if she must walk a dark path.

Sequels also read: Bouquet of Asphodels

Forever Means Forever by cocoartist

Summary:

If she ever saw Unspeakable Number 37 again she would kill him with her bare hands: Hermione's research into the Veil has an unexpected side-effect. COMPLETE.

Les Mis:

It Is Not a Word Spoken by CrazyAce_n_PokerFace

Summary:

*…I don't understand. You can't possibly be suggesting you were seriously trying to sext me.* She stares at his words and exhales slowly before typing, *And if I was…?* É/E Modern AU. The long-awaited sexting fic. Very NSFW. Dedicated to the wonderful samthenardier as a birthday gift. Title taken from the lovely poem "It Is Not a Word" by Sara Teasdale.

Merlin:

Radioman by Footloose

Summary:

The reason SAS Captain Arthur Pendragon can't keep a communications specialist in Team Excalibur because none of them are good enough. And then Lieutenant Merlin Emrys gets assigned to his squad, and Arthur does everything he can to prove that Merlin isn't good enough, either. Except he is.

Atla:

Returned for a Better Try (to Make a Better Time) by atypicalhypocrite

Summary:

The Fire Lord’s blast is sharp and thorough. Still on his knees before his father, a thirteen year old dies instantly. Another Zuko, once teacher to the avatar and a Fire Lord himself, jolts into being in his place, and deals with the consequences. Timeline preservation nothing, he’s going to be a better Fire Lord this time, and start sooner.

Star Trek:

Ten Degrees Below Zero by kianspo

Summary:

After a serious incident aboard a starship, Commander Spock is demoted and transferred to a remote base where he must now serve with other "undesirables." He adjusts to his new rank and duties, and, while the future does look bleak, he is not ready to give up on himself or Starfleet yet. There is work to be done and hope to be found, especially as he begins to get to know his new colleagues, particularly one intriguing engineering officer James Kirk...

The Vampire Diaries:

At Horizon's Edge by Cupcakemolotov

Summary:

Sometimes when a girl goes on a shopping trip to pick up a new pair of boots at the local, and somewhat hostile, human space station, she accidentally aids and abets a prison break instead. What happens in the black really doesn't stay in the black.

The Umbrella Academy:

broken still you breathe (breathe, breathe, just breathe) by Eternal_Peace_is_Overrated

Summary:

“He’s not coming,” Luther says impatiently. “Let's just get this over with.” “Who’s not coming?” The voice sounds behind them suddenly, and all of them startle and whip around in synchronization. “Klaus,” Luther hears himself say distantly. “You’re…here.” Four tilts his head, bringing his hand to his lips and inhaling deeply around the cigarette dangling between his fingers. When he exhales, the smoke curls around his head like a halo before drifting into the air. “Yeah, well, I would’ve gotten here sooner,” Four says around the cigarette. “But I just really didn’t want to.” *** Number Four shows up to the funeral three hours late with an iced latte in one hand and a cigarette dangling from the other. Or; Klaus fled the Academy the day they turned eighteen. He never looked back. Ten years later, their father dies. Number Four returns. And none of them quite know what to do with this new version of their black sheep brother. AKA: Klaus single-handedly stops the apocalypse. It really wasn't that hard, so if everyone could stop looking at him like that, that would be great, thanks.

Bridgerton:

Plenty Far To Fall by useyourtelescope

Summary:

When financial troubles mean third-son Colin Bridgerton must cease his yearly travels and find employment instead, he has difficulty finding something suitable. Until he learns of a unique position being offered by the notorious gossip columnist Lady Whistledown.

Alright, that's all folks (mostly), for fun, here are the top 8 additional tags from the stories that I read in April:

AU - Modern Setting: 24

AU: 16

Smut: 14

Fluff: 10

Friends to Lovers: 10

AU - Canon Divergence: 9

Angst: 8

Explicit Sexual Content: 7

And, that's all folks (for real this time)!

[errant-knight17]

The Merlin Protection Squad

They’ve only had Merlin for a day and a half, but if anything happened to him, they’d kill everyone in Camelot, then themselves... (Something Gwaine probably has said before)