#merlin wraith

[sugar-coated-prat-dragon]

Title: Nimueh did feel some regret over Ygraine’s death 💔

Episode: "Excalibur" questions #4

Questions by @tansyuduri

Tagging: @miyriu

Books used for reference: Sword and Sorcery book and The Merlin Complete Guide 📚

Question: Why would Tristan attack Uther for what he thought was a normal childbirth death? That would be REALLY weird.

My answer: Is it really that hard to believe though?

Agravaine didn’t know about the life-for-a-life magical bargain and he still blamed Uther for his sisters death.

Hell, if anything Agravaine was worse, because not only did he want to kill Uther, but he despised Arthur for being born and wanted him dead too.

Grief is a tricky emotion.

In some ways, it’s almost more dangerous than displaced rage.

Question: Wraith clearly has a different meaning in this show?

Usually, it refers to a ghost, death omen or a soul who was on the verge of death/recently passed on?

My answer:

Actually, the definition for Wraith in the show (and in the tv shows glossary) is quite literally; apparition or a ghost.

The only difference between a normal run-of-the-mill ghost and a Wraith is that it’s the ‘spirit of a dead man’ conjured from the grave using magic and then that same tormented soul is made to live again as a physical manifestation of the living dead.

Basically, a ghost is a tormented soul with no physical body and a wraith is a tormented soul that has been brought back using dark magic (then given a physical body; which remains stuck in the space between life-and-death).

Book description:

WRAITH: apparition or a ghost (glossary)

- But Gaius had located the page he wanted. He pointed to the illustration of a skeletal knight. 'It's my guess we're dealing with a wraith. The spirit of a dead man conjured from the grave

Merlin was shocked. 'So this is the work of a sorcerer?*

The doctor nodded. 'Powerful magic can harness the grief and rage of a tormented soul and make it live again.'

Episode 12 - The Fires of Idirsholas; This band of seven wraiths, formerly noble knights whose souls where corrupted by an evil sorcerer, were lethal warriors.

- Because a wraith is not alive, no mortal weapon can kill it.

Question: Nimueh obviously has a bit of control of who dies?

Did something interfered here causing it to be Ygraine?

My answer: It does seem like Nimueh has at least some measure of control over whose life she trades during her life-for-a-life bargains.

Especially, since it states that she ‘ignored Merlin’s request’ to take his life in exchange.

However, I don’t think Nimueh purposely chose to exchange Ygraine’s life, because she genuinely seemed sad over the memory of the queen’s death (at least briefly in the book; during a moment of weakness when her mask slipped).

That scenario likely only happened because when no other life is pre-destined to die, it falls simply to the old religion itself to right the balance.

The book mentions that Nimueh had no idea that her choice to help Uther have an heir would ultimately result in helping to shape events that unite the kingdom and aid magic to be free again - perhaps stronger than ever.

Book description:

Even when directly serving the old religion, Nimuch showed no compassion.

She agreed to save Arthur's life but ignored Merlins request to take his own life in exchange. Instead, she took the life of his mother.

DESTINY:

Nimueh is aware of some aspects of Arthur's destiny - despite her wish for the prince's death, so that Uther is punished, she knows he is not fated to die at her hand.

Yet she doesn't realize that in bringing Arthur into the world, she has helped shape events that may aid magic.

Under Arthur, the kingdom may be united, and magic could be free again - perhaps stronger than before.

- 'She died giving birth to your son! It was not my choice. That is the law of magic. To create a life, there had to be a death. For a second she looked almost sad.

"The balance of the world had to be repaid:

Question: Uther does seem to truly view magic as evil incarnate, but seemingly only after the death of his wife?

My answer: Uther tolerated magic just fine, until he found out the hard way that he couldn’t control it and in the aftermath, he came to conclude that he had been deceived by magic.

It was only then that Uther decided to order that anyone who practiced sorcery was to be put to death.

Book description:

UTHER CONQUERS

Magic was tolerated - after all, it had always been part of the world; who could imagine a land without sorcery?

However, as many rulers had done before, Uther looked on magic as something that could work for him - and found out, as so many others had done, that this was not the case. Magic has its own laws, and cannot be ruled by a mere king.

PERSECUTION

Uther believed that he had been deceived by magic - while it appeared to grant his wish, it did so in a way that would cause him great suffering.

He concluded that all those who practised magic were evil - even if they seemed to use it for benevolent reasons. Anyone connected with sorcery or the old religion was put to death.

Question: I wonder what kinda person Ygraine was that Uther fell so deeply in love with her?

My answer: There’s not really any information about Ygraine and Uther’s married life.

However, the cute, little fatherly scene between Uther and Arthur after the Black Knight duel might have been a glimpse into what his wife had seen once upon a time.

The light hearted scene of a playful man who had a nice sense of humor and a affection for his son hinted at an aspect of Uther’s personality that only his wife had ever been privy too, because with other people, he had to be a strong and hardened warrior.

Book description:

“I'll show you footwork!'

Laughing, Uther rose and aimed a playful kick at his son, who dodged out of the way and headed for the door.

As Arthur left, he realized he hadn't heard his father laugh like that for a very long time.

[justaz]

kilgharrah warned merlin and told him that excalibur was only to be wielded by arthur. merlin used excalibur to kill morgana. arthur died on the shore of the lake.

[akelafang]

It is currently 8 am and I stayed up all night writing. This idea I had a while ago crept its way back into my mind and would not let go until I had written this thing out. Please excuse any spelling or grammar mistakes, I am very sleep-deprived and have not properly proofread it.

Enjoy!

After Morgause’s ritual Ygrain may have vanished from Arthur’s sight but she did not leave his side. She watched his rage build as he rode back to Camelot. She watched as he confronted Uther about his newly acquired knowledge of the circumstances of his birth. She watched as the man she once called husband so flippantly dismissed the charges laid against him and felt her own rage boil inside her, echoed in the fury of her son's words. She watched as Arthur threw down his gauntlet, as the seriousness of the situation finally hit Uther. She watched their fight with a sick mix of satisfaction at Uther finally facing consequences and horror at Arthur’s actions.

By the time the servant boy arrived horror had won out. She was relieved when he managed to talk Arthur down. She desperately wanted Uther to face justice for what he’s done but not this way, not by Arthur’s blade. The murder of one's father is a stain on the soul that can not be washed out and one she would never wish upon her beloved son.

She understood why the boy, Merlin, had lied to stop Arthur. In the state of mind he was in she doubted that anything else would have stopped him from running Uther through. Though she could tell it pained him to say such words. Since the day Merlin had arrived in Camelot Ygraine had watched this boy protect her son with magic and now he forced himself to speak ill of it in order to protect his soul. She’d grown fond of Merlin as she’d witnessed the growing bond between him and Arthur but this instilled an affection for him in her that almost rivaled that of her love for Arthur. His care and devotion to Arthur was as endearing as it was heartbreaking.

That night she watched over Arthur as he slept, as she had done many nights before. As she expected he had trouble falling asleep and what sleep he found was not restful. She knew she could do little to soothe him but she hoped that on some level he knew she was there and that her presence would help.

Currently, he lay on his side, face smushed into the pillow and hair fallen over his eyes. For now, he had stopped tossing and turning in his sleep and seemed to be getting some level of rest. Ygrain smiled at the image he made. Oh, how she loved her ridiculous boy.

She reached out, wishing to brush the hair away from his sleeping face. When her fingertips reached the golden strands she expected them to pass through, instead she felt their softness against her skin. She pulled her hand away with a gasp. Surely she had imagined it. But then she looked closer. The hair she had reached for sat differently than it had before. The difference was miniscule but it was there. She had touched her son’s hair. And her touch had caused it to shift ever so slightly. 

Slowly she reached out again and could not contain a smile as her fingertips connected with Arthur’s hair once more. She lifted her hand upwards towards the side of Arthur’s head and marveled at how the strands of hair followed her movement. She shifted his fringe away from his eyes and smoothed out the hair that stood on end. She ran her fingers through those silky golden threads with reverence. 

She never thought she’d feel what it was like to touch something again. She thought that brief moment during the ritual would be the first and last time she’d get to hold her son. She never thought she’d get to experience this simple joy of stroking her baby’s hair while he slept.

As she continued to tentatively move her hand she felt him shift beneath her fingers and she froze. The last thing she wanted was to wake him. But that wasn’t the case. No, instead he leaned into her touch. She released a breath she didn’t need and continued her ministrations. Arthur nuzzled into her touch, his face so relaxed and peaceful. Ygraine wished she could stay in this moment forever.

Minutes passed, or it could have been hours, Ygraine was uncertain. But eventually, Arthur rolled over in his sleep and out of her reach. With the moment broken, Ygraine turned her attention to the things around the room. Could she touch them? 

A glinting of light caught her eye. The sun was beginning to rise and the morning rays were peaking through a small gap in the curtains covering the windows, shining off of the gold tassels. She made her way over to them and eagerly reached out to grab hold of the closest one. A huff of quiet laughter escaped her as she felt the expensive material in her hand. She moved her arm this way and that way, amazed as the heavy fabric followed her movements. She delighted in the way they caused the light to shift and sparkle off of the tassels. With a sudden burst of confidence she scrunched up her fistful of curtain and flung it to the side, pouring light into the room. Behind her, she heard a groan from Arthur.

“Too early Merlin” He grumbled before settling back to sleep.

Whatever spell Morgause had cast had changed things. She could touch Arthur. She could move the curtains. She could interact with the physical world.

Ygraine smiled. It seems she has some unfinished business to attend to.

[larluce]

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

Tagging @aceauthorcatqueen , @fallenxjas , @smileytrinity ,@lucifertookmyshoe , @an-entity-i-think , @thecornerofbelu , @griffonskies , @odinjm , @cinnabon-sweetroll-tiramisu , @thelady-mary , @bennedict , @nightninjaboy , @st8-of-grace , @star-rie , @error-username-not-available , @dogberryrowan , @jamieweasley13 , @tansyuduri , @tercais , @robynnemrys , @evadne01 , @serasvictoria02 , @hairdryerducks , @hopeaha , @curiously-lazy , @ harriettesthings , @andrealux16 , @wacko-weirdo , @greatdonutenemy , @yougottobekittenme , @anxiousosaurus , @kinkforwings , @someweirdassnamee , @impracticalantlers

LINKS TO THE OTHER PARTS OF THIS AU HERE: PART 1 , PART 2 , PART 3 , PART 4 , PART 5 , PART 6 , PART 7 , PART 8 , PART 9 , PART 10 , PART 11 , PART 12 , PART 13 , PART 14 , PART 15 , PART 16 , PART 17 , PART 18 , PART 19 , PART 20 , PART 21 , PART 22 (You're here) , PART 23

In "Excalibur"

The black knight arrives as expected. Arthur this time lifts the gauntlet before any other knight can do so, much to Merlin's dismay, but at least he now knows what to do.

Kilgharrah: (watching Merlin arrive) Oh, until you finally deign to see me, young warlock.

Merlin: I'm sorry I didn't answer your calls. Many things happened.

Kilgharrah: (analyzes Merlin and realizes) Another old mind in a young body.

Merlin: (confused) What?

Kilgharrah: You are not from this time, are you young warlock?

Merlin: (sighs) I should have known you'd notice. Look, if you're going to give me the destiny and coin speech, I swear that-

Kilgharrah: I find it useless to talk to you about something you already have very present. However, I'm sure you didn't come here just to greet me. If so you would have come much sooner.

Merlin: (takes out the sword Gwen gave him) Arthur, the Once and the Future King of your prophecy, is going to duel with a wraith. It's not in your best interest for him to die, so I need you to reforge this sword so that Arthur won't die in combat-

Kilgharrah: I'll help you.

Merlin: I remind you that your revenge is with Uther, not with… Wait, you'll help me? 😧

Kilgharrah: You have a very strong argument. I can't deny that.

Merlin: And you won't try to convince me to free you in exchange either?

Kilgharrah: I don't want you to see my help as conditional, young warlock. I imagine that's why you've avoided coming to see me. I'll just ask you one thing. Where you come from, am I free?

Merlin: Yes… (Thinking) After you almost turned Camelot into ashes.

Kilgharrah: That's all I need to know. (Raises the sword towards him with magic) A sword forged with my assistance will have great power.

Merlin: I know.

Kilgharrah: Normally I'd say you can only guess, but in this case I know you are very aware, and yet there's still so much you don't know.

Merlin: I know that in the wrong hands this sword can cause great evil. I won't let that happen.

Kilgharrah: That's not what I meant. (comes closer) Do you know why you and Arthur are two sides of the same coin?

Merlin: (rolls his eyes) Yes, yes, the prophecy. We are the half that makes us whole. Arthur is my destiny. I already know all that. 😒

Kilgharrah: Indeed, but the curious thing about the sides of a coin is that, despite being literally glued together, they never see each other.

Merlin: (tired) I don't have time for this. Are you going to forge the sword or not?

Kilgharrah: (forges the sword) Hear my words, the sword must be wielded by Arthur and him alone. You must promise.

Merlin: I promise.

Kilgharrah: (returns the sword already forged to Merlin with magic)

Merlin: (looking at it wistfully) It's just as I remember it (looks up at Kilgharrah again, smiling) Thank you, Kilgharrah. (leaves)

Kilgharrah: Any time, young warlock. (Thinking) It is when the sides of the coin see each other that tragedies occur.

Time skip. Right after Merlin gave the sword to Arthur and just before he duels the black knight.

Merlin: (finishes putting Arthur his armor on) Ready, sire.

Arthur: (smirking) Won't you give me a hug?

Merlin: What?! 😳

Arthur: For luck, of course.

Merlin: (very red and confused) Since… since when are you so fond of hugs? (thinking) You were never this affectionate before...

Arthur: (opens up) I admit I didn't always like them. Wrong, I always liked them, but, as a prince, I'm not supposed to be affectionate. At least that's what my father always said. "Physical contact with royalty is a privilege, it cannot be given lightly" that was his phrase.

Merlin: (realizes, sad) The king doesn't… doesn't hug you much, does he? (Thinking) Now that I think about it, I don't remember a single time he did it.

Arthur: (thinking back) I think the last time he did it I was… 5 years old? Oh, don't look at me like that. I understand why he thought that was the best way to raise me, but it wasn't until recently that I realized… that's not how I want to live the rest of my life, or how I would raise my kids, you know? I don't want to deny myself the giving or receiving of affection, at least not when it comes to the people I care about.

Merlin: (understanding) That's why you hug Morgana more often now.

Arthur: And you. (Extends his arms) So? Will you give me my lucky hug or not?

Merlin: (laughs softly) As if you need it. (but he hugs him, thinking) I'm glad you trust me enough to tell me this and that you want to change. We've never... we've never hugged this much before... It's... it feels good. (melts in the hug)

Arthur: (thinking) I thought I'll never have you like this ever again... (pulls him closer) I don't want this to end. Gods, let me hold him forever. Please

Merlin: (thinking, scolding himself) Stop it! What will Arthur think? (gently separates the hug and says) There, you can go now.

Arthur: I don't think that's enough luck.

Merlin: (confused) Huh?

Arthur: I'm going to need this too (takes Merlin's neckerchief off)

Merlin: What?! 😨 What are you doing?! (He tries to get the neckerchief back from him) Give it back! Arthur! 😠

Arthur: (raising the nekerchief and dodging all of Merlin's attempts to take it from him) I need all the luck I can get, Merlin. And what's luckier than a favor?

Merlin: (very red, but pretending to be upset) Yes, but that's supposed to be with the favor of a lady! Not my-That's not how it works!

Arthur: Would you prefer that I ask a Lady hers?

Merlin: That's not... You don't need it! 😡

Arthur: I could die.

Merlin: (raises his voice in sudden panic) You are not going to die! (Composes himself) Sorry.

Servant x: (enters) Sire, they are waiting for you.

Arthur: I'll be right away. (puts the neckerchief around his arm) Merlin, help me, will you?

Merlin: (ties the neckerchief around Arthur's arm, blushing)

Servant x: (gives Merlin a knowing smile and then turns to Arthur) Your highness (bows and leaves)

Merlin: (sighs, thinking) Great... more rumors...

Arthur: Will you be cheering for me? 😏

Merlin: (snorts) You wish. (Softens his expression) But I'll be there. Just to make sure you don't ruin my neckerchief, of course.

Arthur: (starts to leave, but turns to Merlin) My lady (bows with a flirtatious smile and leaves)

Merlin: (in shock with eyes wide open) What the…? (turns red with fury and embarrassment) This clotpole is making fun of me! 😡

Arthur wins, of course. Merlin was definitely not clapping and cheering loudly and he definitely did not blush furiously when Arthur decided to give back his neckerchief publicly.

"He is taking this joke too far" is all Merlin can think when he gets back to his chamers, but he sleeps with a smile on his face and the neckerchief curled in his hand.

In "The moment of truth"

In Arthur's chambers. Arthur writes at his desk.

Merlin: (enters without knocking) Arthur!

Arthur: (startled, spills the ink with which he was writing on the parchment)

Merlin: Sorry... 😅

Arthur: (sighs, thinking) Some things just never change. (Says) Be useful for once and bring me another scroll, will you?

Merlin: (hurries to take out another scroll and gives it to him)

Arthur: (takes the parchment) Any special reason why you decided to burst into my chambers so suddenly or did you just miss me? (moves his eyebrows flirtuosly)

Merlin: (blushes) I...(thinking, freaking out internally) WHAT IS HE DOING?!😳😱😫. (Says, nervous) I just wanted to ask you if you could give me a few days off so I can visit my mother, sire. (doesn't look at him in the eye)

Arthur: (frowns, concerned) Is something wrong? You seem anxious.

Merlin: It is nothing, my lord. I just miss seeing my mother. I haven't been able to see her since I came to the castle.

Arthur: I see, that's understandable. (He puts the parchment aside and stands to look Merlin right in the eye, seriously) Now the truth.

Merlin: (thinking) Damn it! (sighs, giving up and says) I got a letter from her recently. The village I come from, where my mother lives, is being attacked by raiders. I promise I won't be gone for long, just until I'm sure she's save. She's my mother, Arthur. I need-

Arthur: I understand. You have my permission.

Merlin: (smiles) Thank you, Arthur (About to leave)

Arthur: Oh, take this (throws him a bag with supplies)

Merlin: (looking at the bag) What...?

Arthur: (Searches the room and grabs another bag) And this (throws it at Merlin too) and this (goes to Merlin and hangs the last bag around his neck). Yep, that's all, let's go.

Merlin: (confused) Go where, Sire?

Arthur: To Ealdor together.

Merlin: What? No! (Drops all things) Arthur, you can't come with me. The king will not allow it.

Arrhur: Did you really think I'll let you go alone?

Merlin: (thinking) I mean, you did came with me before, but no so soon! (Says) But, Uther-

Arthur: Don't worry about it. I'll solve it.

Merlin: But I need to go alone!

Arthur: Why?

Merlin: (thinking) Because I need to be able to use magic without you watching me! (Says) I…

Arthur: (thinking) I don't know how advanced you are at your magic, I'm not going to risk something happening to you... And I have to reduce numbers. (snorts) I know you think highly of yourself, Merlin, but I don't think you can take down a mugger patch all on your own.

Merlin: (thinking) If you only knew... (Says) You don't have to do it.

Arthur: True, but I want to.

Merlin: (smiles) I know and I really apreaciate it. Truly. But it's not just a matter of want. Ealdor is in another Kingdom and if there was a word that the Prince of Camelot went there- (thinking) The treaty with Cenred will be broken and it would be my fault again.

Despite Arthur never telling Merlin this in his other life, he knows Arthur going to Ealdor to help him played a great part in that to happen. He remembers Uther was furious with Arthur when he got back and throw him in the dungeons for a week. When Arthur finally got out he had several bruises on his skin. It was the first time Merlin ever consider killing Uther if even for a moment. Arthur never hold any of that against Merlin but that didn't make him feel any less guilty. He can't make Arthur go through that again.

Arthur: No one has to know I'm the Prince. Plus we could take it as a trip to Ealdor and I can finally meet your mother.

Merlin: (confused) Why do you want to meet my mother?

Arthur: Can't I meet my manservant's family?

Merlin: (shuts his mouth helplessly, thinking) Oh, well, at least it'll just be Arthur and me.

Time skip. Outside the castle.

Merlin: (yelling at Arthur) YOU BROUGHT YOUR KNIGHTS?! 😡

Knight 1, 2, 3 and Leon: (standing awkwardly a few meters away of Arthur and Merlin)

Knight 1: He's yelling at the prince.

Knight 2: I think the servant doesn't like us very much.

Knight 3: I feel bad third.

Leon: I'm not even surprised anymore.

[Welcome to: ✨breaking the fourth wall space✨

Me: Hi!😊 I'm the author of this crazy story! An I created this little space so the characters can break the fourth wall, without affecting the trama! They will mostly use it just to complain to me though.

Knight 1, 2 and 3: (to the author) Hey! when are you going to give us names?! 😡

Me: (to the audience) See? (to the nameless knights) Well, I would but, you see. Normally I just give names when they... last.

Knights 1, 2 and 3: (who literally die in the "Le Morte d'Arthur" part) What does she mean? 🤨

End of ✨Breaking the fourth wall space✨]

Arthur: (To Merlin, but raising his voice so the knights hear him) Of course! We are going to carry out a formal inspection of Camelot's border (looking at Merlin meaningfully), or did you expect the King to send his only Prince and heir to the border alone, Merlin?

Merlin: Oh... Oh, right!(nods exaggeratedly and turns to the knights smiling, then looks back at Arthur with too much enthusiasm) Then we better hurry, my lord. (He gets on his mare)

Arthur: (gets on his horse too)

Time skip. Merlin and Arthur riding ahead and the rest of the knights riding a few meters behind.

Merlin: (Just loud enough so Arthur can hear) Did you tell them?

Arthur: Tell them what?

Merlin: 😑

Arthur: Of course (pauses) not.

Merlin: Do you realize that technically we will be invading the territory of a neighboring kingdom? Not only is it a delicate matter, it could escalate into a diplomatic conflict! That's why I told you-

Arthur: Don't worry, I have a plan.

Merlin: (opens his mouth)

Arthur: (cuts him) Before you ask me what the plan is, we'll cross that bridge when we get to it. (Turns to give a look at the knights) That way they will have no choice but to obey me.

Knights: (feeling a chill down their spine)

Time skip. After two days of travel, they finally arrive at the border.

Knight 2: Uhm… Sire? Isn't this the border?

Arthur: No, it's ahead.

Knight 1: I'm sure we've already crossed the border.

Arthur: Do you claim to know more than me, Sir Innprudence?

Knight 1: No, sire (shuts up)

[Knight 1: (to the author) Sir Innprudence?! 😡 That's the best name you could come up with? Really?!

Me: (laughs a little) He he, yeah, I forgot I already named you in part 16.

Knight 1: I prefer Knight 1 😒.

Me: Too late, I already changed it 😈.

Sir Innprudence: NO! 😭]

In the forest of Escetir, near Ealdor. Arthur stops and dismounts his horse, so the others do too.

Leon: Have we reached the border yet, sire?

Arthur: Actually, we are technically in Escetir.

Knights: WHAT?!😱

Arthur: Yes, we're on a deck mission. I'll explain. Merlin, bring the bags.

Merlin: (brings the bags)

Arthur: (To the knights) Do you see the village there? (points to Ealdor)

Leon: Yes, sire.

Arthur: This is my manservant's home village and it's under attack by raiders. Our mission is to slay them all and protect this village.

Knights: ...

Merlin: Oh gods 🤦‍♂️

Arthur: As you know, it would be catastrophic if they were to find out the Prince and the Knights of Camelot were here. So (takes some clothes out of the bags) We're going to pretend to be mercenaries. (throws the clothes at each of them) and we will tell the villagers that we were paid to defend them.

Sir Innprudence: And who paid us?

Arthur: Merlin, of course.

Merlin: What?!😨 Arthur, no one is going to believe that!

Arthur: Why not? This is your native village, your mother lives here. You have more than enough reasons to want to protect Ealdor.

Merlin: And where did I supposely get the money from?!

Arthur: From your benevolent master, of course. That pays you very generously.

Merlin: You are mad! Completely mad! (Pointing to the knights) THIS is MADNESS!

Leon: Sire, you know that I support you no matter what, but you do understand you are basically asking us to betray the king, right?

Arthur: That's only if he finds out, which he is not going to do.

Sir Innprudence, knights 2 and 3: (hesitating whether or not to inform the king of what is happening)

Arthur: After all, everyone here crossed the border, so everyone here would be in trouble if the king ever found out. Although, of course, I would not receive such a severe punishment because I am the prince and unlike others I am not replaceable.

Knights: …

Leon: Count on us, sire 😊.

Merlin: (shouts) NO! (To Arthur) You are not going to do this! 😡

Arthur: (with feigned confusion) But, Merlin, it was you who asked for my help strongly, don't you remember?

Merlin: (jaw drops at Arthur's audacity, thinking) This son of a- (says) That's not true! (To the Knights) I didn't ask for anything, I swear!

Leon: Don't worry, Merlin, we understand how things happened. (wraps an arm around Merlin) Surely you only asked him for money to hire the mercenaries, but his highness decided to come himself to defend the village for you.

Merlin: No! I didn't ask for anything at all!

Knight 2: (to Knight 3) He is the favorite for sure.

Sir Innprudence: (to Leon, making him let go of Merlin in panic) Don't touch him! Do you want to die?!

Knight 3: We better change.

Knights: (start changing)

Merlin: I'm not...! I didn't...! (tries to explain, but no knight listens)

Arthur: (smiling, amused) What are you waiting for, Merlin? (Points to his mercenary clothes so Merlin dresses him)

Merlin: (goes to Arthur and changes his clothes, thinking) Oh, you're going to pay for this Arthur Pendragon.

Meanwhile in Ealdor.

Kanen: (on his horse, grabbing the harvest sacks) What's this? Where's the rest of it?

Village chief: (on the ground, picking up the vegetables they made him drop) I only kept back what we need to survive.

Kanen: (mockingly) Survive? (threatenly) I'll be back in one week, farmer, and I want to see all of it.

Hunith: (Runs furiously to Kanen) You can't take our food! Our children will starve! I won't let you do this! (Tries to take the harvest sacks) You're not taking any of it!

Kanen: (hits her and Hunith falls to the ground)

Merlin: (arriving on his mare, shouts) Mom! (Furious, mutters a spell) Miere hors.

Kanen's horse: (gets upset, raising his legs, making Kanen fall off him)

Hunith: (hurries to grab the harvest sacks and runs)

Arthur and knights: (just behind Merlin, they get off their horses and attack the raiders)

Merlin: (gets off his mare and runs to Hunith) Mom! (cradles her face) Are you okay?

Hunith: (very surprised and happy) Merlin! What are you doing here?

Kanen: (gets up and rushes towards Merlin and Hunith with his sword, about to sly them)

Arthur: (blocks the attack with excalibur) Don't you dare... (Breaks Kanen's sword with excalibur) even think about it!

Villagers: (looking between fear and amazement)

Kanen: (seeing himself outmatched, decides to retreat) You will pay for this with your lives! (gets on a horse nearby) All of you! (Looks down at Hunith and smirks) I'll see you later, sweetheart.

Merlin: (about to jump beat Kanen up, enraged)

Arthur: (Stops him by putting an arm in front of him)

Kanen: (leaves with the raiders that survived)

Arthur: (Thinking, coldly) He'll be back with more, perfect. (Looks at the bodies lying there, thinking) 295.

Hunith: (hugging Merlin) My son, how good it is to see you, but you shouldn't be here.

Merlin: I came as soon as I knew what was happening (points at Arthur) and I brought help.

Arthur: (introduces himself) Nice to meet you, Hunith of Ealdor, my name is Arthur. Merlin hired me and my men to defend this village.

Hunith: Arthur? Like Prince Arthur?

Arthur: A very popular name, indeed.

Hunith: (smiles) I sincerely thank you for what you're doing, Arthur. You are very chivalrous for a mercenary. (sees the knights in the distance, who are helping the women and children) You all seem very chivalrous to be mercenaries.

Arthur: Uh... We get paid well.

Will: (approaches Merlin) You're still up to the same old tricks? I thought I told you we don't want your kind here.

Merlin: ...

Will: (confused) Merlin?

Merlin: (suddenly breaks down crying)

Arthur: (angry, to Will, ready to beat him up right there) What's wrong with you?! 😡

Will: (in panic, worried) I was kidding! Merlin, that's how we always mess with each other! I did not mean-

Merlin: (his crying turns into laughter) Ha! I got you. (Hugs Will) I missed you too, Will. (Thinking) I missed you so much.

Arthur: (coughs, definitely not jealous) Merlin, gather the villagers, I need to talk to them.

Merlin: (pulls away from the hug) Yes, right away. (about to leave)

Will: Wait. You let him give you orders? I thought you hired him.

Merlin: (in realization and smiles evilly) It's true. (hits Arthur arms) You! How insolent! Is this how you treat your employer? You gather the villagers!

Arthur: (About to yell at him, but remembers that Hunith and Will are there and stops himself) Sorry, I thought you might want to do it yourself. I'll do it right away. (Thinking) Wait until we return to Camelot, you dollophead.

Merlin: (thinking) Oh, this is going to be fun.

...

I know this kind of feels like a filler, but it's important I swear! What did Kilgharrah meant? Can Merlin save Will this time? Will the rest of the Kmights get to have names? Find out in the next episode of ✨"Merlin: the Mistress in denial" ✨

[thatgaywizardoverthere]

Hey remember that time in 1.09 when Merlin went to take out wraith Tristan like “oh this’ll be SO discreet” because it was nighttime and then immediately proceeded to publicly light him up like a fucking Guy Fawkes Day effigy with a trail of fire leading directly back to him

[thesongistheriver]

Life continues to be a bit of a dumpster fire, so once again the next chapter of Raise My Hands, Paint My Spirit Gold is slow going. Have a snippet!

“My uncle,” Arthur said, rubbing the back of his neck. “My mother’s brother.” Merlin’s brow furrowed. “I thought your mother’s brother was dead.” “She had two,” Arthur replied, before his brain caught up to the conversation. “Wait, how did you know that the other was dead?” “The Black Knight.” When Arthur didn’t show any recognition, Merlin continued, “The wraith, remember? Oh, wait, Gaius knocked you out and you missed that bit. With the sword.” “You’re talking gibberish, Merlin.” Merlin’s nose wrinkled not-at-all adorably. “I’m actually not, but I’ll have to explain it another time."

[deadbabey]

Y’all know in BBC’s Merlin when Arthur is supposed to fight Tristan’s wraith and Gaius gives him that draught to make him pass the fuck out so Uther can fight instead?

Where does a bitch get one of those? Asking for myself.

[frost-queen]

Miss steal ya things (Reader x Kaz Brekker)

Requested by: anon, Forever tag:@missmelodramatic, @merlin-dahlia, @alex--awesome--22 @elllie-does-the-posts, @floatlosers, @merlieve, @queen-of-books, @glimmering-darling-dolly@denkisclown, @wildieflower, @meyocoko, @bubblybrianna, @justanothercoco@subjecta13-thefangirl, @m-rae23, @harleyquinnswifeyfrfr, @swampthing07, @melsunshine

Summary: Kaz and you are enemies at first but you start to fall for each other. You have an argument with him in the rain (like Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet fight scene) where you kiss afterwards despite what was said.

Kaz hastened himself up the stairs. Whatever he wanted almost in his grasp. He could almost feel it. The weight of it in his hand. All that pure gold dangling from a necklace. Behind him, he heard some grunts. Letting him know Nina was taking them out. Upstairs there was commotion. He knew Inej was clearing the path for him. She had taken the approach from above, making her way down while Nina worked her way up.

He also knew Wylan and Jesper were waiting outside with a carriage. When the time came, they’d stop underneath the window so he could escape. He moved aside, pushing himself to the wall when a man came rolling down the stairs. Kaz looked up with a grunt, seeing Inej smile apologetic. Her attention drawn away when another man came at her, making her move backwards, knives in the ready.

Kaz went further up, stepping over some fallen people thanks to Inej. He knew right where to be. He took a left, opening the door. His eyes widened at seeing something he did not expect. Staring frozen at a girl, holding his precious necklace. – “Put that down!” – Kaz ordered with a firm point.

You stared in shock back at him. – “I’m sorry I didn’t know this was yours.” – you replied showing him the necklace. Kaz clenched his jaw making you smile. – “A necklace doesn’t seem to suit you.” – you said mockingly with a sarcastic smile. Kaz smiled sarcastically back. You let the necklace slide into your pocket for him to see. You wanted him to know what you just stole right from under his nose. Kaz gritted his teeth, lashing out to you.

You jumped away. Kaz stumbled against the desk, grabbing for nothing. Hastened he turned himself around, staring with wide eyes at you. You opened the widow, taking out the necklace again. – “I’ll let you have a souvenir.” – you pulled a ruby out of the necklace, throwing it at him. Kaz caught it, looking at the ruby in his gloved hand. You winked, letting yourself drop out of the window. Kaz hurried over to the window, grabbing the framework while sticking his head out.

You had fallen onto his carriage. He watched how Jesper and Wylan were surprised and confused when you came sitting between them for a second. Saluted them and then took off. Kaz punched his fist into the wall hard out of anger. From this day on, he had made an enemy.

You duck down, moving past barrels to stay out of sight. Coming to a stop, you dared yourself to peek over a barrel. Immediately ducking down when you saw one of Brekker’s crows stand on the port. He was whistling, tossing a coin up to catch in his hand. Seeing him made you smile. You were in the right place. Keeping a low profile, you moved further. Well aware of the wraith watching from above. You knelt down, turning around leaning close to the barrels.

Looking up, you watched the roofs of the storing houses close to the docks. Moving your hand up, holding your thumb and index finger up. Squinting your eye, you moved your hand to a spot on the roof. The wraith’s silhouette fitting perfectly between your fingers. – “Found you.” – you whispered pleased. Now that you knew her position it was but a matter of staying out of her sights. Moving further you saw the heartrender flirt with some dockworkers.

Good she was keeping them busy for you. There was still no sign of Brekker or the other kid. You neared the ship, sneaking on it. You staid low, shuffling closer to the lower decks. There you waited a few seconds before making your way down. Down below the compartment was lighted up with a few candle holders. You smirked seeing the boy stand with his back towards you. Still no sign of Brekker.

“I’ll take that.” – you said, taking out a gun. The guy got startled, bumping with his back to the crates at the sight of you. You smiled, tilting your head a bit to the side. – “I’ll take whatever you are packing.” – you said twirling with your finger at him. The boy blinked confused, looking rather nervous. – “You…you want it… it all?” – he repeated slightly confused. You sighed loud. – “Yes I’ll take whatever Brekker is trying to steal.” – you responded. The boy wasn’t sure what you wanted. – “Uhm…” – he looked behind him to the crates. – “What’s in the crates?” – you asked, making him aware of your gun.

He moved his hands up desperately. – “Just… chemicals.” – he told you with a slight stutter. – “Chemicals?” – you repeated lowering your gun on him. – “Uhm yes… chemicals I produced myself.” – he explained, not sure why he even told you. – “Huh.” – you said loud trying to process it. Scratching the gun against the back of your head, the boy seemed frantic about it. Worried you’d might shoot yourself in the head or so.

“W…watch that!” – he said having almost jumped at you to take it from you. – “What? This?” – you said lowering the gun. He nodded shy. – “Worthless.” – you said carelessly holding one finger through the loop, the gun flopped upside down. – “Doesn’t even have bullets in it.” – you chuckled out. – “What?” – the boy blurted out. – “I got you there didn’t I.” – you laughed tossing the useless gun aside. – “I’m no fan of guns.” – you told him.

“So Brekker isn’t here to steal anything?” – you asked after some silence. – “No.” – the boy answered immediately. – “Shame…” – you shrugged your shoulders. – “What is he planning on doing then?” – you asked coming closer. The boy fluttered confused with his eyelashes when you came standing beside him, looking inside the crates. – “He… he means to blow it up.” – Wylan said, maybe regretting he did. You stared at Wylan. – “Boom.” – Wylan mimicked with sound effects and hand movements. It made you laugh loud. – “You are funny. I like you.” – you told him.

Wylan chuckled softly, rubbing his hands nervously together. – “You… you are the girl that keeps stealing our stuff right?” – Wylan asked, questioning your presence. You hummed loud. – “Y/n!” – you said, holding your hand out. – “Wylan.” – he responded, shaking it. You sighed loud, looking at the crates once more. – “Shame there is nothing to steal from him. I would’ve loved to see his face when I did.” – you said to yourself. – “Anyways say my regrets to Brekker. You should definitely tell him I was here.” – you told him with a wink.

You plucked a self-made bomb from the crate. – “Also I’m holding onto this.” – you said pinching Wylan in his cheek. Wylan rubbed his cheek watching you head back out. Funny. He thought you were strange but funny. He could see why Kaz got so worked up over you.

Wylan returned to his chemicals and bomb hearing suddenly loud tapping of a cane on the wood. Kaz emerged down. – “Is everything in order?” – he asked looking around, still standing on a few steps. – “Yes…” – Wylan responded. – “Just uhm…” – he started. – “Just what?” – Kaz cut through. – “Well your uhm… the girl appeared… Y/n.” – Wylan said making Kaz clench his hand.

“She thought you were stealing something… she just left… although she did take one of the bombs I made.” – Wylan said innocently. Kaz tapped his cane loudly onto the stairs. Annoyed, he turned around. – “Finish up!” – he ordered Wylan before heading back up. He walked up on the docks, Inej dropping down beside him. – “You missed her!” – he pointed out to catch her on her neglecting.

Inej stopped, staring stunned in front of her. – “How? I…” – she said getting back in motion to catch up with Kaz. – “I…I should’ve seen her. I had the best view.” – Inej continued. – “But you didn’t.” – Kaz spoke back angry. – “Now she’s run off with a bomb of mine.” – he said walking firmly as Inej had stopped following him.

 You outdid yourself of the cloak, you had been wearing as a disguise. Having snuck into the building. Taking careful routes, you made your way over to the office of interest. You had to be quick before Kaz Brekker would be there before you. You ran past a window on the swirling staircase, catching quick that it had started to rain. Panting loud, you reached the top. Busting into the office. Your eyes widened seeing Kaz Brekker. He was leaning against the desk, casually going through some papers.

Once you entered, he barely looked up from them. – “I was starting to think you weren’t going to show up.” – he said turning a page. You looked confused behind you. You thought for sure you’d be here before him. – “How did you…” – you wondered. Kaz laid the papers down, taking his cane that had been leaning against the desk. – “Got here before you?” – he rephrased with a sly smile. – “Dear Y/n. I adapt.” – he said moving a heartful hand to his chest. You blinked confused. – “I knew you’d keep tabs on me, trying to snatch any of my prizes from under my nose.” – he started to move closer to you.

“It was but a matter of making you believe my plan while actually there was a plan underneath the plan.” – he said proudly standing face to face with you. You stared back at him, hating to admit how perfectly clever that was of him. He smirked back at you. – “Apologies but I believe this is mine to take.” – he said, patting his chest, letting you know he was hiding the papers there. You slowly started to clap for his amusement. – “I must applaud you Brekker. You are not so dumb after all.”

Kaz swayed his finger from side to side. – “I am many things Y/n, but not dumb.” – he answered. Kaz and you kept staring at each other till you heard something clatter into the room. Kaz and you looked down at the tube where smoke was sizzling out. Kaz’s eyes widened. – “Run!” – he called out, pushing you aside. He dived back just in time as the tube went off. Bombing the room with a bright light. The blast made you crash against the wall.

Kaz and your ears were buzzing, coughing loud trying to get up. Kaz felt a sting of pain on the side of his face. Touching it brief, he felt the bruising. He kept coughing, seeing you lay down on the ground. In an attempt to head over to you, he stumbled back to the ground. You were moving a bit restless making him crawl over the floor to reach you. A bit of his hearing coming back as he heard commotion on the stairs. He poked you with his cane. – “Get up…” – he coughed out. – “Y/n get up!” – he ordered, poking you more.

You slowly got up, coughing loud. Kaz kept poking you to get a move on. Both of you got up, helping each other. You duck down, covering up your ears when shots were fired inside the office. Kaz ducked down as well, holding his arm over you. – “The window!” – he shouted with a firm head motion. You nodded stumbling over to it. Kaz broke the window with his cane, glass clattering on the ground.

The rain outside pouring heavily. He stuck his head out, looking for a way out. He saw a carriage approach. If he timed it right, it would break your fall when you jump down. More shots were getting fired into the office, making you jump out of your skin. Kaz turned to you. – “You jump when I say so!” – he said angrily. You looked down for yourself. – “No way!” – you called out, taking a step back. Did he not know how high that was? Did he just wanted you to jump out of the window to crack your skull open, so he’d be rid of you?

Kaz clenched his jaw, looking down to see the carriage near. Not up for a discussion, he grabbed you firmly by your clothing. Pulling hard at it as he tossed you out of the window. You screamed loud when he came jumping out after you. Your back hit the roof of the carriage hard. Just in time you were able to roll over or Kaz would’ve fallen on top of you. He lifted his head up, puffing some hair out of his face. The carriage rode further away making him look back to the building.

In the window he spotted some men, pointing their guns out to shoot. His eyes widened, grabbing you again by the clothing. You squeaked when he pulled you with him off the carriage. You landed on some sacks that broke your fall. – “Get up!” – he ordered kicking you with his cane. You struggled to get up as he rolled with his eyes, holding his cane out to you. You took it, letting him pull you up to your feet. He gave you a push against your back with his cane, insisting you’d go a certain way.

The rain getting you soaking wet. Kaz motioned with his head for you to continue to walk. He and you started to run, taking shelter from the rain underneath a roofing. Panting loud, you let yourself lean against the wall. Kaz glanced your way, catching his breath. Taking in a deep breath, he felt compelled by you. – “Y/n.” – he started asking for your attention. You turned to him, startled. – “Why’d you save me? It certainly felt out of character for you.” – you stated watching something change in his gaze.

Something shy and as if it was so clear. You recognized it making you step back. He saved you because he cared. You pressed your lips together, finding it hard to believe. – “I did not intend for this. I tried everything to snuff it out.” -  Kaz tightened his jaw. – “Are you laughing at me?” – he asked. – “No.” – you replied fierce. – “Are you rejecting me?” – he then asked, seeing how silent you remained. – “I am told the feelings that you harbor against everyone will help you overcome it.” – you stated.

Kaz looked rather uncertain. – “May I ask why I am repulsed?” – he continued. – “And I may ask why so evident in desire of insulting me, you chose to tell me you like me against your better judgement.” – you called out. – “No, believe me I…” – Kaz cut through, but you waltzed right over him with your words. – “If I was so uncivil then that is some excuse, but you know I have other reasons.” – you said firmly. In the distance the sky was rumbling with thunder.

“Like what?” – Kaz said back annoyingly. – “What of Wylan?” – you asked. Kaz visibly looked frustrated. – “What about Wylan?” – he snapped. – “What excuse can you give me for your behavior towards him.” – you spoke as he approached intimidatingly. – “You are taking an eager interest in him?” – Kaz replied. – “He told me of his treatment.” – you spoke, staring intensely into his eyes. – “Oh yes his treatment have been very great indeed.” – Kaz answered sarcastically.

“You ruin his personality and yet you treat him with sarcasm.” – you made clear. Kaz stared briefly down at your lips. – “So this is your opinion of me?” – he said hurtful. – “Thank you for explaining so fully!” – he called out. His gaze caught up in yours. – “Perhaps these offenses might have been overlooked had not your pride been hurt…” – he called out, angering you. – “My pride?” – you shouted at him. – “And my honesty!” – he yelled louder to overpower your voice. – “Admitting our relationship could you expect me to rejoice in the annoyance of your circumstances.” – he continued.

“And those are the words of a gentleman?” – you said closer to his face. – “From the first moment I met you, your arrogance and your selfish feelings towards others made me realize that you were the last man in the world I could ever fall in love with!” – you made clear to him. Kaz let his gaze go over you while you were out of breath. He leaned his head a bit closer, hesitant if he should.

His gaze drifted away to your lips. Sucking in a breath, he grabbed your head, forcing his lips onto yours. You inhaled loud, grabbing him as well. Lips desperately moving over his. He kept kissing you, guiding your back up against the wall. Lips rough against one another to release all the buildup tension. No matter the words that had fallen here, he knew they were lies. You knew it as well. Kissing him made that clear. The two of you were just to stubborn to admit it at first.

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

Read more of my fics on my Masterlists!  

[fayewoods-2]

Is The Following Synopsis Good For My Story

One night a teenage half demon is whisked away from the only world he’d known, that of an evil circus who exploited the poor boy as one of their ‘freak shows’. He’s thrown into a quest with a pair of slightly malicious wraiths and a not so malicious catgirl, journeying to learn of his demonic heritage, so that one day he might control his powers and prevent the destruction of himself and those he loves at his own hands. Along the way, they meet Merlin himself, whom gives instructions to find the elusive primordial being Evil, the only one who would know who this boy is descended from, and how to control his emerging demonic power…

[xreaderbooks]

The Shadows of Our Love |3|

Chapter 3 | In the Shadow of Evasion

Pair: Sebastian Sallow x Reader

Word Count: 2.5k

Warnings: slow burn, language

Summary: Y/n had DADA and a group date in Hogsmeade

Also available on Wattpad and AO3

Playlist

a/n: let me know if you'd like to be tagged for future parts... picture is not mine, credit to @legacyshenanigans

Chapter 2 - Series Masterlist - Navigation - Chapter 4

The passing week went by as soon as it started with most- if not all your classes with the boy who was keen to avoid you for all of eternity it seems. Every attempt to talk to him was shut down with him quickly walking away in the opposite direction or talking to one of your classmates, finding any and every excuse to seem too busy to talk.

It hurt, you didn’t know what you did wrong, as far as you knew with the last exchange of letters, everything should be fine. He was getting along with Ominis despite the fact that you were the one who convinced him not to turn Sebastian in. Being a part of someone’s life, dueling side-by-side in life-risking situations, it’s almost impossible not to grow feelings.

You shared moments that one would dare call ‘bonding time’, fighting off all kinds of monstrosities, helping him find a cure for Anne no matter how drastic. You were his support when his own best friend wasn’t, and in a way he became yours. Poppy and Natty aside, he became a huge part of your life at Hogwarts, learning the secrets of your shared house (made you feel like you had a special connection with him), and especially out of Hogwarts with all the dangerous situations you both got involved in.

You foolishly thought he shared the same sentiment.

You felt betrayed, betrayed, and angry. You thought you were giving him space to heal, thinking you needed to heal on your own as well, you didn’t think you were giving Sebastian the perfect excuse to disappear on you.

When you walked into the Defense against the Dark Arts classroom on Friday morning, you were determined to get answers. He would speak to you whether he wanted to or not, one conversation was all you needed.

“Today I will be introducing the topic of Nonverbal Spells,” Professor Hecat announced to the class as soon as everyone had arrived.

The only familiar faces are Sebastian (of course, You thought), Leander Prewitt, and Cressida Blume.

Leander raised his hand, “But Professor, I thought we were going to continue our lesson on Dementors.”

Last class, Professor Hecat gave a lecture on the soul-sucking wraiths, their strengths, what they feed off of, and the charm that repels them. It was expected that you would be learning how to cast a patronus but she had other plans.

“I can understand that some of you are excited to produce a patronus charm,” She walked around the class and placed her hand on his shoulder as she passed him. “However it is more difficult than it may seem, Non-verbal spells and counter spells are just as exciting, Mr. Prewitt.”

“ Now, I would like for you all to divide into pairs, one partner will attempt to jinx the other without speaking. The other will attempt to repel the jinx in equal silence.”

You searched the room with your eyes dreading pairing with literally anyone other than Sebastian, due to the current status of your friendship, your choice would be either one of the Gryffindors that you were sort of acquaintances with.

“Mr. Sallow, I’d like for you to be paired with Ms. L/n,” Professor Hecat declares and motions for the two of you to take up an open spot on the floor. It looked like Cressida was headed for Sebastian and Leander was headed towards you. “Both of you are my most skilled students, it would do you both well to get a feel for Non-verbals, that way shall I need any assistance going further, you two will be more than capable.”

Sebastian look as if he wanted to protest but didn’t, you on the other hand were thanking Merlin for the opportunity, perhaps this lesson will be able to break the silence between you. Ironically.

“Sebastian, Why don’t you start?” The older woman suggested. “Y/n, try your best to block him. I’ll be walking around the room, checking everyone’s progress.”

You and Sebastian stood facing each other, 5 feet apart as everyone else was. There was no humor in his gaze as there normally was, you had gotten used to his jokes, the flirty comments that suggested more than there actually was between the two of you. When it was just the two of you on a quest, he had an easygoing manner that made fighting off villains, easier.

Now, in class, the intent in his gaze, was nowhere near humorous as he focused on the conjuration of a spell to attack you with.

You kept your ground, waiting for the blow, not sure what to expect from him. Your thoughts were soon answered as several moments passed and the knockback jinx sent you to the floor.

“Are you even trying?” Sebastian retorted, as you lifted yourself off the ground, nothing you haven’t dealt with before. The comment though, reminded you of the argument you had with him last year when he called you ignorant after finding out you were in league with Lodgok.

Oh, Lodgok. You shook the memory of the goblin who had been a victim of his own brother's wrath and how you wished you would’ve been able to defeat Ranrok before it was too late.

Another blast sent your way, you scowled dusting yourself off, once again standing from the floor.

“I’m fine Sebastian, thank you for asking,” You sighed and focused harder this time. You widened your stance, now that you knew what to prepare for, you felt the magical aura rise, and as you felt the vibration in your wand, with the perfect timing you blocked the spell with your wand. “My turn.”

You mentally think of the spell you wanted to use, nothing came to mind except for the sharp sting of his words.

His eyes narrowed for a second before going back to normal, steadying his stance to focus as you did before.

You willed a spell, any spell to counter his previous moves, the feeling of magic in your veins you wanted a stinging jinx one that would hurt him. A dull hum sang in the back of your head, familiar and consuming.

You tried to refocus on the stinging jinx, or a knockback spell, anything to bubble up your ancient magic. You winced as your wand sputtered out red, green, and purple sparks.

Sebastian had a hand on his hip, his head tilted as he observed you.

“Do you mind?” You shot at him, you felt the heat rise from your neck at the embarrassment.

“Not at all,” He smirked. You wished you could conjure something, anything to wipe the amusement of your failure off of his face. You weren’t used to not being good at something, it had been a long time since you felt a failure at the hands of something magical.

You sighed and attempted to will a single spell into your wand without saying a word, and every time, you felt the icy blue glow that came from your veins.

You both settled on him practicing jinxing you and you, blocking them. At the least, you were successful in doing that, but the glow from inside you never faltered, it was like it was absorbing all the power sent your way.

Professor Hecat dismissed the class after the second hour, encouraging you and your classmates to keep practicing and to begin thinking of one of your happiest memories, listing them if you had to, and turn in a paper on why it was your happiest memory for homework.

Leaving the Defense against the Dark Arts classroom, you searched for Sebastian, in hopes of being able to tell him and thing or two about his treatment of you this past week.

Once again, he was gone before you could reach him.

~~~

The dorm was empty when you got there.

You got dressed into your usual brown pants, white blouse, and blue corset with a belt around your waist, lacing up your almost knee-high boots. It reminded you of the adventures you used to go on, making you reminisce, despite the dangerous feats you had to admit you missed it.

You descended the steps of the girl's dormitory and into the common room when you caught sight of Ominis who was already moving toward you.

“Hello, Y/n.”

“Hi,” You greeted him, placing a hand on his shoulder so he would know where you were.

“Have you spoken to him?”

You didn’t need him to specify who ‘him’ was, unfortunately, what happened just 30 minutes ago left a bitter taste in your mouth.

“Not exactly…”

“He was in quite a mood in the Undercroft,” He exhaled. “I was simply minding my business when I hear the gate shut and he begins casting spells like a madman.”

You smile to yourself fondly at knowing Ominis ‘minding his own business’ actually meant taking a nap. Sebastian’s behavior was a surprise, in fact, you knew that is what he chose to do with his free time, especially when letting off steam but you couldn’t find yourself to care at the moment.

“I’m sorry to hear that he disturbed your peace Ominis, but he was in no mood to speak with me, nor I him for that matter. I tried to catch up with him after class, to tell him a piece of my mind- he’ll no doubt tell you about it when he’s ready- and he was gone.”

Ominis hummed in thought, you glanced at the clock, noticing it was almost lunchtime. You and the others had agreed to go to the three broomsticks for lunch, so you would all have the rest of the day to walk around and shop before dark.

“Garreth and I are going to Hogsmeade with a group if you’d like to join?”

“That’s alright, I should be checking on Sebastian, see if I can get him to stop being… well him.”

“Okay, next time then.”

He bowed his head as he used his wand to guide him to the boy’s dormitories. You climbed the stairs up and out of the common room, hearing the sound of the cement snake slither into an arch, you walk to the great hall entrance where you saw Garreth pacing around.

You cast the disillusionment charm, creeping up behind him and shouting in his ear. He jumped and screamed, it was a high-pitched one that echoed in the moderately full hall.

He clutched his chest, “You!”

You laughed heartily at his expression, “That was for yesterday. What are you doing out here for?”

“Well, meanie.” He lightly pushed you, “I thought of waiting for you in front of the Slytherin door like a gentleman but… you know, Gryffindor.”

“Aw, Garreth are you scared of a couple of Slytherins?”

He glared at you playfully, “Shut up.”

Footsteps, loud and heavy came closer from running. “Wait!”

Imelda slowed to a jog, stopping once in front of you and Garreth.

“I’m coming with you.”

You raised a brow in suspicion, “Really?”

“Ugh, don’t act so surprised Y/n, you said I didn’t know how to have fun.”

“So, you’re willingly coming with us?”

She shot you a look, weaving between the two of you, opening the Great hall doors and holding it open for you. “Well?”

You looked over at Garreth who shrugged. “You’re that desperate to prove me wrong.”

You and Garreth walk alongside Imelda, seeing Poppy and Natty sitting by the fountain with Leander and Nellie.

“I can be fun, I consider Quidditch fun, not my fault you lot can’t feel the greatness of winning. But since this is what you losers consider fun, I’ll try it.”

“Okay,” You responded simply. The sight of Leander trying and failing at flirting with Poppy makes you cringe. “Why’d you invite him?”

Garreth’s face held something cold, something you’d never seen from him, no matter what the circumstance. “He invited himself.”

“Let’s how this goes then,” You braced yourself for Leander's overbearing presence.

Natty and Poppy greeted you with a hug, and smiles for Imelda, Poppy gave Garreth a shy wave. One he returned with equal warmth in his cheeky grin.

~~~

The three broomsticks were busy as per usual so seating was a bit complicated but once a couple of people left, the boys who had let you girls take the available seats first (much to Leander's dismay), they were able to sit.

Lunch made by Sirona was arguably one of the best meals you’ve ever eaten, the time flew by with your friends, and Leander made more than a few distasteful jokes but nothing that could’ve ruined the good vibes.

You all got to catch up, sharing stories on what you were all up to during the summer.

Poppy helped her grandmother with her research on unicorn blood and its benefits, Natty went back to Matabeleland with her mother but only for a short period of time because of safety, you and Garreth told them about how it was to live together.

You both confessed to having a bit of a fling… mouths were left open, and jaws dropped. Imelda smugly said she called it.

“It was too weird, he’s like a brother now,” You said. “It was only for a month and a half towards the end of summer.”

“A month and a half?” Leander exclaimed.

“Who broke up with who?” Natty asked.

“It was mutual,” Garreth answered. “And gee thanks, Y/n/n.”

You rolled your eyes, knowing why you both decided to break up with each other, it was fun and a nice distraction. You had always found Garreth attractive and apparently so did he, but your heart belonged to Sebastian and he belonged to an unknown girl. The only time Garreth made a mature decision, it was easy to confuse the two when you both aching for other people.

You both knew that though your relationship could have continued, as a couple, you didn’t have the spark.

You chose to leave out the romantic feelings for other people.

“Now that I know red hair is your type-” Leander began.

“Leander!” Nellie smacked the boy behind the head.

She then, thankfully, changed the subject to her new hobby which sounded all kinds of risky. A new sport apparently, called rock climbing, she loved all things that gave her a thrill. Only a handful of people knew how to do it in the world, safely, that is.

All in all, a brilliant time, you had all agreed to do this every other week, just send an owl if you couldn’t make it. The rest of the night was spent strolling around Hogsmeade, looking at all the new in-season merchandise.

~~~

You and Imelda stumbled into the common room, tripping over yourselves and giggling. She took Quidditch too seriously, but other than being desperately passionate about the sport, she was a nice hang. She proved as much throughout your time, hardly being as stuck up as she normally was for literally everything.

Your cheeks hurt from smiling so much, it had been a while since you felt this light.

That was, until she said goodnight, noticing how quiet you got. You stood stunned at Sebastian sitting in his usual armchair in front of the fire, book in hand, he stared at you as you stared at him.

Seconds, minutes, passed, and he broke the silent staring contest by going back to his book. You strolled passed him, pretending what passed between you, never happened. 

~~~

Chapter 4

Taglist:

@vanivivs

[sarcasticsciencefictionwriter]

List of Actors in Sanctuary who Also Appeared in Stargate (Spanning Entire Franchise).

Main Cast (Counting Regular Major Appearances):

Amanda Tapping. Sanctuary: Helen Magnus. Stargate: Sam Carter.

Christopher Heyerdahl. Sanctuary: John Druitt, Bigfoot. Stargate SG-1: Pallin. Stargate Atlantis: Halling and Todd the Wraith.

Ryan Robbins. Sanctuary: Henry Foss. Stargate Atlantis: Ladon Radim.

Agam Darshi. Sanctuary; Kate Freelander. Stargates Atlantis: Novo and Athosian 2.

Jonathon Young. Sanctuary: Nikola Tesla. Stargate Atlantis: Dr. Parrish.

Peter Wingfield. Sanctuary: James Watson. Stargate SG-1: Hebron and Taneth.

Jim Byrnes. Sanctuary: Gregory Magnus. Stargate SG-1: Documentary Narrator (Heroes Part 2). Stargate Infinity: voice (no character listed).

Significant Stargate Actors Not in Main Cast of Sanctuary:

Michael Shanks. Sanctuary: Jimmy (one episode). Stargate: Daniel Jackson.

Tom McBeath. Sanctuary: General Villanova. Stargate SG-1: Colonel Harry Maybourne.

Vincent Gale. Sanctuary: Nigel Griffin. Stargate SG-1: Deputy - Agent Cross. Stargate Universe: Morrison. (he was significant in Sanctuary and had a high episode list for Stargate, so no arguing)

Colin Cunnigham. Sanctuary: Gerald (one episode). Stargate: Major Paul Davis.

Paul McGillion. Sanctuary: Terrance Wexford (four eps + webisodes). Stargate Atlantis: Carson Beckett.

David Hewlett. Sanctuary: Larry Tolson (webisodes). Stargate: Rodney McKay.

Kavan Smith. Sanctuary: Joe Kavanaugh (two episodes + webisodes). Stargate: Evan Lorne.

David Nykl. Sanctuary: Strickland (one episode). Stargate Atlantis: Radek Zelenka.

Sarah Strange. Sanctuary: Allison Grant (one episode). Stargate: Morgan Le Fey.

Dan Shea. Sanctuary: Transit Cop 2 (one episode). Stargate: Sergeant Siler.

Gary Jones. Sanctuary: George (one episode). Stargate: Walter Harriman.

Peter Flemming. Sanctuary: FBI Agent Bruce Tanner (one episode). Stargate: Agent Barret.

Martin Christopher. Sanctuary: False Priest/Father Clark. Stargate: Kevin Marks.

Barclay Hope. Sanctuary: Security Force Commander (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Col. Lionel Pendergast.

Peter DeLuise. Sanctuary: Ernie Watts (one episode/webisodes). Stargate SG-1: Sal's Diner Customer, Wormhole X-treme Replacement Actor, plus 20 other roles. Stargate Atlantis: Dr. P. Smith (uncredited). Stargate Universe: Peter. (<- also directed all four shows)

Significant in Sanctuary but not Stargate:

Shekhar Paleja (Credited in both as Shaker Paleja). Sanctuary: Ravi Ganapathiraman. Stargate SG-1: Jaffa. Stargate Atlantis: Doctor (uncredited, six episodes).

Ian Tracey. Sanctuary: Adam Worth. Stargate SG-1: Smith.

Pascale Hutton. Sanctuary: Abby Corrigan. Stargate Atlantis: First Officer Trebel. (<- almost/should have been main cast in Sanctuary)

Carlo Rota. Sanctuary: Richard Feliz. Stargate Universe: Carl Strom.

Other Actors in Mostly Minor Roles in Both (but often more significant in Sanctuary, for obvious reasons) Listed in Order of Sanctuary Appearance:

Lauren K. Robek (Credited as Kirsten Robeck in both). Sanctuary: Maryanne Zimmerman (three episodes). Stargate SG-1: Lieutenant Astor.

Sheri Rabold (credited as Sheri Noel in all). Sanctuary: Molly (two episodes/webisodes), Helen Magnus Stand-in. Stargate SG-1: Physiotherapist. Stargate Atlantis: Scientist, Lab assistant.

Laura Mennel. Sanctuary: Caird (one episode/webisodes). Stargate SG-1: Mary. Stargate Atlantis: Sanir.

Alex Zahara. Sanctuary: Carver (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Motion Capture Warrior, Warrick Finn, Iron Shirt, Eggar, Shy One, Alien Leader, Alien #1, Micahel Xe'ls.

Peter Bryant. Sanctuary: Cabal Team Leader (two episodes). Stargate SG-1: Hoskins and Fro'tak.

MacKenzie Gray. Sanctuary: Mr. Jones (one episode). Stargate Infinity: Pahk'kal, Napoleon Bonaparte (voices).

Matthew Walker. Sanctuary: Oliver Braithewaite (one episode). Stargate SG-1/The Ark of Truth: Merlin/Roham.

David Richmond-Peck. Sanctuary: Jake Polanski (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Jaffa Leader. Stargate Atlantis: Toran.

Panou. Sanctuary: Sylvio (two episodes). Stargate SG-1: Lt. Fisher.

Katherine Isabelle. Sanctuary: Sophie (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Valencia.

Chuck Campell. Sanctuary: Two-Faced Guy. Stargate: Chuck the Technician.

Gabrielle Rose. Sanctuary: Ruth Meyers (one episode). Stargate: The Ark of Truth: Alterean Woman #2.

Daryl Shuttleworth. Sanctuary: (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Commander Tegar, Commander Rigar.

Rukiya Bernard. Sanctuary: Kayla Bradley (one episode). Stargate Universe: Airman Richmond.

Alex Diakun. Sanctuary: Doctor (three episodes). Stargate SG-1: Tarek Solaman.

Chris Gauthier. Sanctuary: Walter (two episodes). Stargate: Mattas and Hertis.

Anne Marie DeLuise. Sanctuary: Rachel (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Amy Vandenberg, Farrell.

Aleks Paunovic. Sanctuary: Duke (one episode). Stargate Atlantis: Rakai.

Ryan Kennedy. Sanctuary: Darrin Wilson (one episode). Stargate Universe: Dr. Williams.

Terry Chen. Sanctuary: Charles (three episodes). Stargate SG-1: Monk.

Nimet Kanji. Sanctuary: Pili (two episodes). Stargate Atlantis: Doctor.

Ron Selmour. Sanctuary: Kanaan (three episodes). Stargate Atlantis: Jannick.

Raquel Riskin. Sanctuary: Cheryl (one episode). Stargate Universe: Mindy.

Eric Keenleyside. Sanctuary: Det. Michael Bronson (one episodes). Stargate SG-1: Fred.

Michael J Rogers. Sanctuary: Stanley O'Farrel (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Major Escher, Col. Richard Kendrick, Colonel John Michaels.

Fabrice Grover. Sanctuary: Father Nathaniel Jensen (one episode). Stargate: The Ark of Truth: Amelius.

Allison Hossack. Sanctuary: Lillian (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Zerina Valk. Stargate Atlantis: Perna.

Scott McNeil. Sanctuary: Birot (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Kefflin, Townsperson.

Jody Thompson. Sanctuary: Fallon (three episodes). Stargate Atlantis: Hospital Nurse.

Nels Lannarson. Sanctuary: Commander Tollan, Praxian Guardsman. (two episodes). Stargate SG-1: Major Green. Stargate Atlantis: Captain Holland.

Sean Rogerson. Sanctuary: Castor (one episode). Stargate Atlantis: Nevik.

Richard de Klerk. Sanctuary: U.S. Sergeant (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Dominic, Joe.

Aaron Brooks. Sanctuary: Lieutenant Hallman (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Nisal.

Collen Winton. Sanctuary: Anna (one episode). Stargate SG-1: National Security Advisor, Dr. Greene.

David Milchard. Sanctuary: Garris. Stargate Atlantis: SGC Technician.

Greyston Holt. Sanctuary: Lt. Coxswell (two episodes). Stargate Universe: Corporal Reynolds.

Brian Markinson. Sanctuary: Greg Addison. Stargate SG-1: Lotan.

Lara Gilchrist. Sanctuary: Cassidy (one episode). Stargate Atlantis: Dr. Hewston.

John Novak. Sanctuary: Thug Boss (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Colonel William Ronson.

Martin Cummins. Sanctuary: Brad Sylvester (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Aiden Corso.

Kurt Evans. Sanctuary: Agent Gavin Crealy (two episodes). Stargate SG-1: Col. Johnson.

Sage Brocklebank. Sanctuary: Canadian Press Photographer (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Rand Protectorate Tech.

Kwesi Ameyaw. Sanctuary: Colonel Bosh (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Olokun. Stargate Atlantis: Technical Sergeant.

J.C. Williams. Sanctuary: SCIU Agent (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Jaffa (uncredited), Stargate Universe: Marine (uncredited).

Caroline Cave. Sanctuary: Sheila Delacourt (one episode). Stargate Atlantis: Dr. Cole. Stargate Universe: Dana.

Brent Stait. Sanctuary: Finn Noland (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Major Louis Ferretti.

Richard Stroh. Sanctuary: Orin (one episode). Stargate Atlantis: Genii Soldier #2.

Venus Terzo. Sanctuary: Capt. Franklin (one episode). Stargate SG-1: Dr. Francine Michaels.

I spent entirely too much time on this, but I really got going. I also probably missed a few people (and didn't even start on the crew because of so much overlap). I'm not sure if this is just Vancouver film industry at work or what, but I am done.

[sugar-coated-prat-dragon]

Title: The reason Arthur wasn’t officially named the crowned prince earlier 👑

Bonus: Tristan De Bois crest was a silver eagle 🦅

Episode: "Excalibur" questions #2

Questions by @tansyuduri

Tagging: @miyriu

Books used for reference: Sword and Sorcery book, Merlin Heroes Guide and Merlin Villains Guide 📕

Question: Why was Arthur not considered crown prince already as the eldest son and only apparent heir?

My answer: That’s a REALLY good question.

Thankfully, I have the answer. 👌

Arthur’s official crowning ceremony was not only to celebrate his coming of age, but to show that should it become necessary; he could rule the kingdom with no need for advisers or guardians.

Book description:

Arthur had come of age now; should it become necessary, he could rule the kingdom with no need for advisers or guardians.

His coming of age was marked by the ceremony naming him Crown Prince of Camelot.

Question: So apparently throwing down a gauntlet was supposed to be a huge insult?

My answer: Correct.

In the book, it mentions that even Merlin had been with Arthur long enough to know that the knight's code did not allow such a challenge to be ignored.

Book description:

The knight pulled off one black metal gauntlet and flung it to the floor - the knightly way of issuing a challenge to combat.

Merlin had been with Arthur long enough to know that the knight's code did not allow such a challenge to be ignored.

Question: It’s interesting that Sir Owain picked up the gauntlet, because in the legend, he was one of the last to die at the battle of Camlann?

My answer: Unfortunately, Sir Owain didn’t last nearly long to enough to participate in the battle of Camlann, but according to his ‘Hero Rating’ in the Heroes Guide book, he had a weapon prowess of 4 stars (⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️).

The book admits that the deaths of Sir Owain and Sir Pellinor robbed Camelot of two of its bravest defenders.

That’s quite a compliment.

Book description: HERO RATING

Bravery: 大大大

Magical power: 0

Weapon prowess: 大大大大

Selflessness: 大大大

NOBLE KNIGHTS OF CAMELOT: Arthur went to pick it up but Sir Owain took it first, eager to prove himself and face an enemy on behalf of his king.

Even when the Black Knight announced that the fight would be to the death, Owain showed no fear.

Owain bravely and confidently went into the arena.

He dealt a deadly blow to the Black Knight, but the wraith could not be killed by a mortal weapon.

- The magic of the wraith robbed Camelot of two of its bravest defenders.

Question: I find it interesting that Tristan uses his own personal crest and not his family crest?

Geoffrey: “It is the crest of Tristan De Bois.”

Gaius: “And he is the only knight ever to have carried such a crest”.

My answer: It’s certainly possible that was his personal crest, but I personally, don’t think that is what that sentence implies.

They pointedly said Tristan De Bois was the only “knight” (🛡️) to bear the crest.

Which honestly would make s lot of sense given how Ygraine was obviously not a knight and I very much doubt Agravaine (coward 😒) was one either.

Despite the fact, the knights of Medhir lived three centuries before Uther’s reign (so there were in fact knights in the past).

We also know that Camelot’s first knights were formed by Uther himself, when he took the throne.

So the De Bois line (Ygraine’s family) most likely had no knights that bore their family crest before or after Tristan’s death.

Gaius: ‘Uther created the knights to protect this kingdom from those who wished to destroy it.”

Book description:

DEATHLY KNIGHTS: Three centuries before Uther's reign, seven noble knights were seduced by a sorcerer and became a terrible force that swept through the land, bringing death and destruction.

Question: It looks like the symbol on Tristan De Bois’s crest is an eagle?

So Tristan was likely a strong man and military leader, who was sincere and constant in his personality?

My answer:

1. The crest was definitely an eagle. 🦅 A silver eagle on a black background.

2. However, I don’t think it was Tristan’s “personal” crest (I don’t even think they even chose their own crests at all).

More likely, it was the crest of the De Bois family and since they were a noble family, they probably had that crest for many generations of their family tree.

It’s just that none of that family tree happened to be knights and therefore no one ever bore that symbol on a sheild.

Book description: Sir Tristan's crest was a silver eagle on a black background.

[faye-writes-stories]

INTRO POST YEAHHHH

Okay so this is @f4y3w00d5s writing blog, I'll occasionally post short stories (probably unrelated to my main books) and things about characters, plots, subplots etc from my main stories.

CURRENT MAIN WORKS

-Freak Show (and other books in this world. This is where Ben and Faye come from) -The Ghost Story (something I've been working on the sides. Pretty epic. I dont think it will end well. no official title or names, just ideas.) -The Horror Stories (works i started when i was younger, series of short horror stories. Some characters may be reworked to be in main stories. Faye and Ben started out as these.)

You may submit asks to my characters, I will work on getting them pictures and bios on here.

List Of Characters To Ask Things

(Freak Show)

-Asmodeus (main character of Freak Show. half demon. A lot of development in the stories, most of which is planned out)

-Fay (okay you know her. shes my wizardblog person. but this is OG Faye. Some things are a bit different this verision doesnt have an e though)

-Ben (same as Fay. but more different.)

-Purple Haze (nonbinary and asexual supervillain. Faye and Bens boss. She's epic. Also just human.)

-Evil (pronounced Eh-vil. OG version of Matrix. Above gender. All seeing all knowing primordial being. actually neutral.)

-Merlin (this version of Merlins a faerie. also one of Bens exes)

-Cyprus (Merlins mortal boyfriend and leader of his guard)

-Cyrus (Vampire. Gay. Magnus Bane vibes.)

-Haydyn (Shapeshifter. Gay. sorta punk but very insecure)

-Evelyn (shes 14. when shes added. she'll date Azzy for a bit. Then some angel fucker named Tristan.)

-Cody (Fays youngest brother. he dies and turns into a vampire.

-Kyra (Jengu. i hate her guts. Shes one of the heroes.)

-Hazel (Kyras gf. Satyr. I also hate her. also one of the heroes)

-Dolores (Hah... hahaha... dont get me STARTED on this bitch)

-Matthew (Dead. used to date Dolores. One of the horror story people)

-Kylan + Christopher (boyfriends. Wraiths. Horror people again)

(Horror Story)

-Anaira & dolls (poor traumatised doll girl :(

-Fern (oh shes fucking EPIC!!! also traumatised.)

-August Smith (IMAGINE DROWNING ON THE TITANIC COS OF A PRANK)

-Adrika (please adopt my poor baby :(

-Jinx (literally just that song Parents by YUNGBLUD)

(The Ghost Story)

-Avery (main character. unnamed.) (https://www.tumblr.com/f4y3w00d5/769925251084812288/backing-info-of-the-house-that-ill-link-into-the?source=share)

-The ghosts (oh i love these fuckers. boy + girl. murdered.)

[impishtubist]

Personally DESPISE and despair at the lack of haughty Sirius & Regulus. Orion & Walburga may have been shit parents but they were still their parents and you bet your little arse that those two injected all their aristo-audacity into their children. Someone takes a photo of Sirius and Regulus and after it’s been developed, they need a moment to breathe because, “Oh for Merlin’s sake, that expression’s all mother and fuck, the way I’m holding the glass—that’s father, isn’t it?”

They can’t get rid of their upbringing. Sirius secretly really likes the aesthetic of a cane with a silver snake head, no matter how gaudy it looks. Regulus still prefers a cravat over a tie. There’s nothing as emotionally devastating of having a Black brother look you up and down and smile a little bit, because it reeks of judgement. Lucius Malfoy will avoid his wife’s cousins at all costs because they won’t give him a moment of peace—at their wedding, Regulus glanced at him once, hid a scoff in his champagne, and asked him if he enjoyed taking fashion advice from old Arcturus. Sirius once asked him during a raid if his Death Eater robes were from that fun little shop in Paris his mother used to get his father’s clothes from, and that they looked “really cute on you, Luce, really. I’m glad you’re having such fun playing dress up.” Lucius had to ask Voldy if he could take some medical leave to recover, because the burn paste he needed wasn’t covered by their Manger-la-Mort Insurance.

They’re both horribly haughty and will only be nice if they like you. Maybe. If all the Black cousins had teamed up together, Voldemort would’ve been defeated in a week and wish he hadn’t made any horcruxes because they’d judgingly laugh his wraith into non-existence.

Okay so I literally was about to rec your own fic to you 😂 I was reading this like "YES there's this Prongsfoot fic out there that does this exact thing, James takes the piss out of Sirius for being just like his parents--wait a minute."

But yes, this! I want to see more fics--Wolfstar, Prongsfoot, Jegulus, Moonseeker, I don't care--where the Black brothers can't escape their upbringing, can't escape looking/sounding like their parents sometimes, and their spouses just tease them mercilessly over it.

And you're 100% correct about how devastating the Black cousins could have been if they all teamed up together.

[pearlsoflongago]

Quest

Tales From Elsewhere

La Parque et l’ange de la Mort/The Park and the Angel of Death by Gustave Moreau

Eldorado

Gaily bedight, A gallant knight, In sunshine and in shadow, Had journeyed long, Singing a song, In search of Eldorado.

But he grew old— This knight so bold— And o’er his heart a shadow Fell as he found No spot of ground That looked like Eldorado.

And, as his strength Failed him at length, He met a pilgrim shadow— ‘Shadow,’ said he, ‘Where can it be— This land of Eldorado?’

‘Over the Mountains Of the Moon, Down the Valley of the Shadow, Ride, boldly ride,’ The shade replied, ‘If you seek for Eldorado!’

—Edgar Allen Poe

La Palme by Odilon Redon

Elaine

Oh, come again to Astolat! I will not ask you to be kind. And you may go when you will go, And I will stay behind.

I will not say how dear you are, Or ask you if you hold me dear, Or trouble you with things for you The way I did last year.

So still the orchard, Lancelot, So very still the lake shall be, You could not guess—though you should guess— What is become of me.

So wide shall be the garden-walk, The garden-seat so very wide, You needs must think—if you should think— The lily maid had died.

Save that, a little way away, I’d watch you for a little while, To see you speak, the way you speak, And smile,—if you should smile.

—Edna St. Vincent Millay

Boat in the Moonlight by Odilon Redon

Merlin and the Gleam                

   I.    O YOUNG Mariner,    You from the haven    Under the sea-cliff,    You that are watching    The grey Magician    With eyes of wonder,    I am Merlin,    And I am dying,    I am Merlin    Who follow The Gleam.                   II.    Mighty the Wizard    Who found me at sunrise    Sleeping, and woke me    And learn'd me Magic!    Great the Master,    And sweet the Magic,    When over the valley,    In early summers,    Over the mountain,    On human faces,    And all around me,    Moving to melody,    Floated The Gleam.                   III.    Once at the croak of a Raven who crost it,    A barbarous people,    Blind to the magic,    And deaf to the melody,    Snarl'd at and cursed me.    A demon vext me,    The light retreated,    The landskip darken'd,    The melody deaden'd,    The Master whisper'd    "Follow The Gleam."                   IV.    Then to the melody,    Over a wilderness    Gliding, and glancing at    Elf of the woodland,    Gnome of the cavern,    Griffin and Giant,    And dancing of Fairies    In desolate hollows,    And wraiths of the mountain,    And rolling of dragons    By warble of water,    Or cataract music    Of falling torrents,    Flitted The Gleam.                   V.    Down from the mountain    And over the level,    And streaming and shining on    Silent river,    Silvery willow,    Pasture and plowland,    Horses and oxen,    Innocent maidens,    Garrulous children,    Homestead and harvest,    Reaper and gleaner,    And rough-ruddy faces    Of lowly labour,    Slided The Gleam.—                   VI.    Then, with a melody    Stronger and statelier,    Led me at length    To the city and palace    Of Arthur the king;    Touch'd at the golden    Cross of the churches,    Flash'd on the Tournament,    Flicker'd and bicker'd    From helmet to helmet,    And last on the forehead    Of Arthur the blameless    Rested The Gleam.                   VII.    Clouds and darkness    Closed upon Camelot;    Arthur had vanish'd    I knew not whither,    The king who loved me,    And cannot die;    For out of the darkness    Silent and slowly    The Gleam, that had waned to a wintry glimmer    On icy fallow    And faded forest,    Drew to the valley    Named of the shadow,    And slowly brightening    Out of the glimmer,    And slowly moving again to a melody    Yearningly tender,    Fell on the shadow,    No longer a shadow,    But clothed with The Gleam.                   VIII.    And broader and brighter    The Gleam flying onward,    Wed to the melody,    Sang thro' the world;    And slower and fainter,    Old and weary,    But eager to follow,    I saw, whenever    In passing it glanced upon    Hamlet or city,    That under the Crosses    The dead man's garden,    The mortal hillock,    Would break into blossom;    And so to the land's    Last limit I came—    And can no longer,    But die rejoicing,    For thro' the Magic    Of Him the Mighty,    Who taught me in childhood,    There on the border    Of boundless Ocean,    And all but in Heaven    Hovers The Gleam.                   IX.    Not of the sunlight,    Not of the moonlight,    Not of the starlight!    O young Mariner,    Down to the haven,    Call your companions,    Launch your vessel,    And crowd your canvas,    And, ere it vanishes    Over the margin,    After it, follow it,    Follow The Gleam.

—Alfred, Lord Tennyson, from Demeter and Other Poems

The Muses Leaving Their Father Apollo to Go Out & Light the World by Gustave Moreau

[weird-tea]

So the continuity of BBC Merlin is a mess, for a lot of reasons, they clearly did not have a plan as to how they were adapting certin elements/chaaracters from the legend more than a season ahead. And don’t get me wrong there is something endearing about how much of a mess it is, and over planned tv shows can be bad as well because it doesn’t allow for creativity in the same way BUT that doesn’t mean I don’t wonder about an alternative universe version of the show that actually knew what it was doing a bit more and was more into acknoledging continuity.

Like, can you imagine if Agravaine has been forshadowed? As in way back in season 1 when the wraith of Tristan de Bois turns up and we get the story of Igraine’s brother challenging Uther to a fight to the death because he blamed him for Igraine’s death - imgaine if they had also mentioned that Igraine had another brother who is still alive but left camelot after Tristan’s death and has never even seen Arthur. Nothing big, just a throw away line seeding the idea that Arthur has a living maternal uncle out there who wants nothing to do with him. It would have been an intresting element for Arthur’s character to be established so early on, that Uther isn’t actually his only blood kin (They didn’t know about Morgana yet) but he is the only one who has anything to do with him. And like obviously it’s awful that Uther seems to hate Arthur, or at least not love him as he should, because of how Igraine died giving birth to him, but hey at least he didn’t just send him away to be raised by strangers, at least he still wants to have his son in his life. Where as igraine’s own brother seems to blame Arthur so much.

And then seasons on when Arthur is show Igraine’s ghost and almost kills his father, it’s not just that Uther got his mother killed and then blamed magic, there is the added twist of the knife that this Uncle we’ve only ever heard mentioned probably blames Uther for his sister’s death not Arthur, and Uther let Arthur beleive that Agravaine hated him. Then when Uther is ill and Arthur is regent and suddenly Argraine is there and helping him that message is doubled down on. That his uncle never hated him, just Uther. Agravaine could have a scene saying how guilty he has felt not being there for Igraine’s boy but he just couldn’t stand to be around Uther when he’d killed both his siblings (continuity reference to Tristian who I don’t think show Agravaine ever mentions). So Arthur’s apsalute trust in Agravaine dispite him acting shady as hell and Merlin’s warnings makes so much more sense because we’ve had his quiet longing to actually know his mother’s brother built up from season 1. And then the reveal that Agravaine really does hate Arthur and is plotting against him would hit the audience so much harder because he was actually a character we had wondered about and wanted in Arthur’s life for seasons.

Also, I feel like the fact that Uther cheated on igraine, his supposed great love, was not brought up nearly enough on the show. Like it focuses almost entirely on the betrayal of Uther hiding the truth from Morgana and Arthur and like a tiny acknowledgement that it’s fucked up he had an affair with his best friend’s wife but like, he cheated on Igraine. Arthur should have a lot of feelings about that! Especally when the whole Gwen/Lancelot thing happens. 

And speaking of the affair - where the hell is Morgana’s mother? We’re told she had a daugher, Morgause, who Uther belived was dead but was actually snuck out to be raised by a high priestess. And that is never explained. Is Morgause’s father Gorlois? Who knows! And then Vivienne has an affair with Uther and has Morgana who is raised by Gorlois beleiving he is her father, then he is killed in battle when she is a child and she is taken in as Uther’s ward - where is her mother in all of this? Did she die? It seems more like she left? What’s up with that? I feel like she got a lot of build up for her with the mystery of Morgause being stuck out of camelot. Imagine is Vivienne was a character in later seasons! Imagine if we got a scene with her and her daughters reuniting? The fact that Vivinne was made to leave camelot, leave Morgana, could have been part of Morgana’s reasoning for turning evil. Like her mother was forced to flee because she had magic or something and no one ever told her. And we could have had Vivinne and Uther scenes where she is worried about the dark path her daughter is on and blames Uther for being a shit dad. We could have had Vivinne talking to Arthur about his mother, about the person she was and how gulity she felt for betraying Igraine with uther. 

I know so many of these things can be ‘fixed’ in fanfiction form, but part of me mourns for the show we could have got. I love the show as is but there is so much wasted potential that just drives me mad.