#mithian of nemeth

[justaz]

i prefer happy ending bbc merlin where morgana becomes court sorceress and arthur becomes king and merlin remains as his servant (until they eventually marry) and lancelot lives and he and gwen marry but that damn game of thrones (?? probably idk) audio on tiktok that goes “i mean to fight this war and win it.” “good. to war then.” keeps giving me visions of king arthur of camelot on the verge of war with other kingdoms and his powerful court sorcerer merlin standing by his throne. arthur declares that he wishes to go to war and merlin (eager to bring about the united albion the prophecies speak of) supports arthur immediately and declares they’re going to war

[deborahdeshoftim5779]

It’s possible that the writers were at fault @lightasthesun​, but as a Merthian shipper and a reasonably careful viewer, I think there’s at least a case for Merlin knowing Mithian quite well:

“There’s something not quite right with Mithian.”

This is self-explanatory. 

“No, it’s not like that; she’s not unwell.”

A fairly bold statement on Merlin’s part, given that Mithian had fainted as soon as she reached Camelot, and had to be rushed to bed. He also hadn’t tested Mithian for anything, so the fact that he could conclude that she was not unwell from a distance suggests that he knows her fairly well.

“It’s more than that: I can see fear in her eyes. It’s not the Mithian I know.”

This is the key issue. The fear is self-explanatory. But then Merlin claims to know Mithian, which implies that she is ordinarily a brave person. Merlin can’t know this without having spent time with Mithian, and we know that he was deliberately cold and obstructive during their first meeting. 

“The Mithian you knew was here in happier times.”

Unless this is a clumsy error by the writers, Season 4 Episode 11 did not qualify as “happier times”, especially not for Merlin. It is entirely likely that Mithian had been on state visits to Camelot since that time, given that she held no ill-will towards King Arthur or Camelot. But we have no direct evidence for this, unless you count the fact that Arthur calls Nemeth an “ally” and “friends” in Season 5, Episode 4. 

“It’s not just Mithian: it’s Hilde. There’s something not right between them.”

Since Merlin has never seen Hilde before, it stands to reason that he knows enough of Mithian’s character to make this assessment. 

The suggested scene in the OP would be entertaining to read. Have you written one @lightasthesun​ ?

I like they idea of Mithian and Merlin happening upon each other at night in the hallway..

Perhaps Merlin is coming back from yet another reckless excursion to save Camelot and its King and Mithian had been strolling the castle because she was unable to fall asleep. Maybe she asks him to keep her company for a while. After all there's no one around that would care whether or not a foreign princess and the kings manservant sat together or shared a laugh under the cover of the night. And maybe their meet-ups become a thing and an unspoken friendship blossoms.

After all, who knows exactly how much time Mithian spent in Camelot before she left to return to Nemeth? Merlin seems to be pretty sure of his belief that he knows her quite well when she comes back and is held hostage by Morgana. Ofc we could say the writers are at fault and likely just didn't think about whether or not Merlins proclamation would make sense but me being an avid merthian shipper preferred this way of thinking lol what if Merlin and Mithian actually spent some time together off-screen and without Arthur?

[akelafang]

Yellow Thread

Pairing: Mithian/Elena, slight side Merthur Word count: 2841

Inspired by this post by @arthursknight. It's a different pairing but the idea of the colored thread acting as a favor was so cute I had to use it! Might post to ao3 later, will link if I do.

~~~

Nemeth was abuzz with activity. Nobles and royalty from all her allied kingdoms were flocking to the citadel, a new group arriving almost every hour. Servants scurried around making preparations and aiding those who had already arrived. The reason for all this excitement? A celebratory feast was being held in Princess Mithian’s honor.

See King Rodor knew he was getting on in his years. He was starting to slow down and it wouldn’t be long before his time came. He feared what kind of position his death would leave his daughter in. While he knew MIthian will be an excellent queen and was more than capable of taking over the kingdom when he was gone, not everyone agreed with him. More than a few had expressed concern over a woman taking the reins of power in Nemeth once Rodor was gone, some had even gone so far as to suggest he skip over Mithian and make one of his nephews his heir. There was no way he was going to do such a thing. Why would he pass over his brilliant daughter just because of her sex? 

Some had expressed their support of Mithian’s future rule, such as King Arthur of Camelot, but Rodor knew that it was not enough to make the transition of power an easy one for Mithian. If he could not bring more people to support Mithian and those who opposed her managed to come together then there could very well be a coup early on in his daughter’s reign. 

So after much discussion with Mithian over the matter they had agreed to make Mithian his regent, a trial run so to speak in order to demonstrate her abilities before she was granted full power. Thus the celebratory feast. A tournament is also to take place over the duration of the guests' stay. A perfect opportunity for Mithian to showcase her skills as a warrior against knights of the realm and any from visiting kingdoms who wish to join. King Arthur himself had already expressed interest in taking part in the event.

“It would be an honor to cross blades with such a fine swordswoman.” He said when the tournament was mentioned while welcoming him and his men to the kingdom.

Mithian smiled at the gesture before answering “I look forward to besting you on the battlefield.”

Merlin, standing just behind his king like the loyal manservant he was, failed to stifle a laugh. Arthur smacked him upside the head for it but he couldn’t fully keep a smile off his face. Mithian chuckled at the display. 

“It’s good to see you again Merlin.”

“And you, your highness.” He said with a cheeky grin and a bow.

Arthur huffed and was about to interject when trumpets sounded announcing new arrivals. The procession from Gawant.

“Well, we best not keep you from your other guests.” He said instead.

“Heather will show you and you men to your rooms,” Mithian said gesturing to the mentioned servant.

The King of Camelot and his men headed inside just as the Princess of Gawant and her father rode into sight. 

Mithian had heard about Princess Elena but this was the first time they’d met in person. Rumors abound of the unkempt, socially inept, wild child heir to the throne of Gawant who was unsuccessful in securing a marriage to then Prince Arthur a few years before her attempt. Mithian failed to see the resemblance to the woman gracefully dismounting her horse before her now. Yes her hair was a little messy but who’s wasn’t after a long journey? Besides, the look suited her.

“Rodor! Good to see you old friend!” Lord Godwyn called as he and Elena approached. 

“You as well Godwyn.” The two shook hands. “Allow me to introduce my daughter and regent, Princess Mithian.”

Mithian extended her hand and Godwyn kissed the back of it. “My lady, It’s a pleasure. I believe the last time I saw you you were still a young child clinging to your mother's skirt.”

Mithian gave a polite smile. “Yes well, that would have been many years ago my lord.”

“Indeed. Time waits for no one. Allow me to introduce my daughter Princess Elena.”

The two princesses curtsied to each other.

“Princess Mithian. I’ve heard much about you.”

“And I you Princess Elena.”

“Good things I hope” Elena forced an awkward smile.

Mithian returned it with what she hoped was a reassuring look.

“Anything less than that I’d say holds no water. You must be tired after your journey, Aisling will escort you to your rooms where you can rest and freshen up before dinner.”

Godwyn and Elena bowed and curtsied respectively before moving to follow Aisling. As she passed by Mithian Elena caught her foot on the stairs and tripped. Mithian’s reflexes kicked in and she swiftly caught her around the waist, pulling Elena against herself to keep her upright. 

“Are you alright?”

“Yes, thank you. I must not have raised my foot high enough.”

With their faces so close Mithian couldn’t help but notice Elena’s beautiful hazel eyes. She thinks she spotted a few flecks of blue in them. Realising she was still holding Elena she let her go and stepped back. Her throat felt tight all of a sudden and she cleared it before speaking again.

“Probably due to exhaustion. I know I’ve struggled to raise my feet after a long enough time traveling.”

“Indeed. Good thing you’re a good catch.”

Mithian looked surprised and Elena, realising what she said started to ramble.

“I mean, you’re a good catcher-uh, I mean you’re good at catching- I mean, thank you for catching me.”

Mithian pressed her lips together to keep herself from giggling. “You’re welcome.”

Elena curtsied again before hurrying up the rest of the stairs and following her father inside.

Once she was gone Mithian let the giggle escape her. She supposed the rumors weren’t completely unfounded. Though they still seem quite exaggerated. 

Mithian’s arm still felt warm from where it had been wrapped around Elena’s waist.

~~~

The feast went off without a hitch. It was a pleasant evening of good food and mostly good company. One nobleman, Lord Cilian from one of the oldest families in Nemeth tried to goad her into a debate on a woman’s place in political circles but she managed to evade the topic and steer the conversation away from that explosion waiting to happen. She was not going to win support by participating in an argument during the celebration feast of her regency.

She scanned around the banquet hall, what for she wasn’t entirely sure but she did spot Arthur just down the table bantering with Merlin as he poured him wine. She watched as the two seemed to forget everyone else around them as they looked at each other. She also watched as Sir Leon rolled his eyes and moved the wine jug out of Merlin’s hands. She pitied the poor fellow. From what she’d witnessed in her few days in Camelot she can only imagine the pain Sir Leon has experienced in his years of service having to watch those two flirt and pine.

While her ego had been bruised by Arthur calling off their engagement she certainly could not blame him for it whenever she saw him and Merlin together. She longed for someone to look at her the way he looked at Merlin. 

Rumors have been circling that Arthur was fighting with his council over law changes he wishes to make. The specifics regarding which laws vary, some say it’s about the magic ban, while others think it’s the law forbidding nobles and peasants from marrying, but in almost all versions Merlin’s name is mentioned. Whatever the truth it was obvious to Mithian that Arthur was putting things in place for him to finally make Merlin his consort. She hoped for his success and wished them both happiness.

A commotion from the other side of the hall caught her attention. She looked over to see Lord Cilian now speaking to Princess Elena. It seems he’d tried the same thing with her and she was not interested in changing the topic and ignoring him as Mithian had. 

“I don’t think I’m the one you want to have this discussion with sir. You’re clearly looking for a sympathetic ear and based on your tone I can tell you it won’t be mine or anyone from Gawant’s. Or have you forgotten that my mother was Queen Regnant and that I’m her heir? I already have more right to my throne than my father and have every intention of claiming it when I am ready. In fact, my father and I have been discussing ending his regency and officially crowning me in the near future. I’m sure it won't be too long before Gawant will be the one hosting many of the people here tonight.”

Lord Cilian huffed and moved away.

Mithian admired how she handled him. She managed to shut him down without outright insulting him or saying anything anyone could truly argue against. She was impressed. 

She caught Elena’s eye and raised her goblet to her. She ignored the flutter in her stomach when Elena smiled and returned the gesture. There was a familiar gleam in her eyes and a voice in the back of Mithian’s mind told her where she’d seen that look before. She ignored that too.

```

Mithian was in her tent preparing for the tournament. This was hardly the first tournament she’s participated in but the significance of it sent her nerves into overdrive. This was meant to be a show of strength, of her abilities as a warrior. How well she does in this tournament could help tip the scales in her favor in the eyes of the people. She needed to show them what she was capable of. 

She anxiously straightened out her chainmail where it lay on the table while she checked over the rest of her kit to make sure it was all there. 

“Shouldn’t your maid be helping you with that?” A voice asked from the tent entrance.

Mithian looked up to see Elena looking at her curiously.

“Sera’s skill is doing up tiny buttons on dresses, not armor buckles. Besides, I like doing it myself.”

Elena moved further into the tent until she stood across the table from Mithian looking over her armor. She fiddled a little bit with the handle of Mithian’s sword.

“Fair enough. I suppose it's similar to me saddling my horse. It’s meant to be the stable boy's job but I feel better doing it myself.”

“Exactly. Some things you need to do on your own even though you’re taught to let others do it.”

A somewhat awkward silence settled between them.

“So what brings you to my tent my lady?”

“Oh um, I just wanted to wish you well. Not that I think you need it of course! I’m sure you’re amazing with this thing.” She lifted the sword and the tip caught itself on Mithian’s sleeve, cutting a hole on its way up. Elena dropped the sword and hurried around the table.

“Oh gosh, I’m so sorry! I didn’t hurt you, did I?!”

She grabbed hold of Mithian’s arm and frantically searched it for any injuries.

“No it's alright, you didn’t even nick me.” Elena breathed a sigh of relief. “The only thing you got was…my tunic.”

Mithian looked down at her sleeve. Now that Elena had calmed down she fully registered that there was a large tear in her tunic sleeve. She clutched at the fabric.

“Oh shit no! I’m meant to be out there in 15 minutes!”

Elena looked surprised by her reaction, probably because she seemed to care more about her tunic getting cut than her own flesh. Mithian looked a bit embarrassed before she started to explain.

“It’s silly but, I always wear this tunic for tournaments for good luck. It was my mother’s and, I guess it makes me feel like she’s there cheering me on.”

“I don’t think that’s silly at all! It makes sense you’d want to have your mother close when doing something you love.” Elena said before a solemn, pensive look came over her face. 

No doubt she was thinking of her own mother who had passed when Elena was a baby. Mithian had been young herself when her mother had gotten terribly ill before passing. She treasured every memory she had of her and clung to any small trinket that was passed on to her. She could only imagine how much harder the loss must have been for Elena.

Suddenly the somber mood seemed to lift from Elena, quick as a lightning strike before she turned to Mithian with an excited look.

“I can mend it for you!”

The sudden shift threw Mithian off for a second but a flicker of hope began to burn in her chest. “Really?”

“You may have noticed but balance has never quite been my forte.” Elena gave a brief self-deprecating smile. “I’m well acquainted with tears and learned to mend them pretty quickly. I could have this sewn up before you’re needed for the tournament. I think I’ve even got some thread that will match!”

Elena pulled a small sewing kit from her dress pocket and, with a nod from Mithian, quickly got to work. Meanwhile, Mithian finished all the preparations she could in just her breeches and undershirt. As she strapped her greaves to her legs she couldn’t help glancing over at Elena, watching her as she worked. Clumsy she may be while on her feet but the way her hands moved with needle and thread between her fingers was nothing short of graceful. The practiced movements were smooth and fluid as the needle glided through the fabric. Mithian felt like she could watch her work for hours. She shook her head to dispel the thoughts and moved on to tie her hair back in a ponytail. She needed to focus on the tournament now and not on unkempt, awkward, pretty, princesses.

However, that was hard when said princess let out a triumphant “Ah ha! Done!” 

Elena hurried over to Mithian, stumbling slightly but quickly righting herself. She eagerly held out Mithian’s tunic with a look of pride. Mithian took it from her gratefully and looked over her handy work.

“Oh, it's lovely Elena! It looks as good as new!” Mithian smiled as she analyzed the craftsmanship, running her thumb along the mended seam. That is when she noticed it. Just at the end of the stitched-up hole, next to the thread that blended in perfectly with her off-white tunic, were 4 little stitches in yellow thread. The same yellow as Elena’s dress.

“It wouldn’t be proper for a princess to be seen carrying another princess's favor but…I thought this might do. Forgive me if I overstepped.”

Mithian glanced up at her but Elena had her head down, refusing to meet her gaze. She looked anxious and though she tried to hide behind her messy hair Mithian could see a rosy hue on her cheeks. Adorable.

Mithian tugged the tunic on, catching Elena’s attention. She caressed the little yellow stitched thread before smiling at the other princess. “I shall wear them with pride, my lady.”

Elena’s smile was like beaming sunshine and Mithian was captivated by the sight. Anyone who said the princess of Gawant was unattractive had clearly never seen her smile before.

Her gaze softened as the two smiled at each other, turning almost shy. Mithian quickly put on her chainmail and armor but she could feel Elena’s eyes on her the whole time. Hesitantly Elena moved closer to Mithian, reaching towards her neck. 

“Allow me.” She breathed, barely above a whisper. Gently she reached behind Mithin and lifted her hair up, releasing her ponytail from the tunic and chainmail. Her fingers skimmed along the base of her neck sending shivers down Mithian’s spine. Their eyes never strayed from one another. “Wouldn’t want your hair to get all tangled up”

“Thank you,” Mithian spoke softly, not wanting to ruin the moment they had found themselves in. 

Mithian’s eyes dropped down to Elena’s lips. She knew she shouldn’t but it was like there was a magnetic pull between her and Elena, one she was losing the fight against. She leaned forward. Just as her lips were about to brush Elena’s the trumpet sounded, announcing that the tournament was about to begin. 

Like that, the spell was broken. They jolted away from each other, avoiding the other's eyes. Mithian hurried to grab her sword and helmet and made her way towards the tent flap.

“Mithian!”

She stopped at Elena’s call.

“Good luck.”

“You’ll be watching from the stands right?”

Elena nodded.

“Then I’ll have all the luck I’ll need.”

Elena gave her another of those blinding sunny smiles. It quickly turned mischievous “Maybe if you win I’ll let you join me for a horse ride tomorrow. If you think you can keep up with me.”

“I look forward to it my lady.”

[merlinrarepairfest]

Round Up 3

The third week of posting concludes with another amazing variety of rare pairs - please find them beneath the cut! <3

Title: The Mirrhe sweete bleeding, the Ash for nothing ill AO3 username: Zorbo_Jorks | @zorbojorks Rating: G Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Medium/Word Count: Fic/ 1300 words Pairing/main characters: Elena/Mithian; Elena, Mithian Up to 10 tags: First Meetings, Feasts & Banquets, Pre-Relationship, Post-Season/Series 3, Cute and Happy, Horse Talk, Bonding over Horses

Summary:

It has been months since Elena has been freed of her changeling curse, and to say the adjustment to normal princess-hood has been easy would be a flat-out lie. She is still the same clumsy, blustering young woman she ever was, only now she is aware of how embarrassing that can be for her. Especially when her father is hosting a feast for delegates of neighboring kingdoms. Even more so when one of those delegates is Princess Mithian of Nemeth, who has the keen ability to fluster Elena with just a look and a smile. Oh, how can she possibly make it through the evening?

AO3 link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/60066730

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Title: but, baby, i'm a rebel AO3 username: insane_faclon | @insane-ohwhyfandoms Rating: T Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Medium/Word Count: Fic, 1.8k Pairing/main characters: Elyan/Morgana Up to 10 tags: AU - High School, Party, Underage Drinking, Sexual Harassment by Cenred, Kissing

Summary:

Morgana's crushing hard on her best friend's older brother. It's a problem.

AO3 link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/60069466

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Title: [ART] My Pet AO3 username: Mischel | @magicalmischel Rating: M Warnings: none Medium/Word Count: art Pairing/main characters: Morgana/Freya Up to 10 tags: digital art, light dom/sub, cat ears, bamf morgana, suggestive themes, canon divergence

Summary:

Merlin isn't the one who found and rescued Freya. Morgana is.

AO3 link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/60077356

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Title: Learning to Stay AO3 username: SlantedKnitting | @slantedknitting Rating: Mature Warnings: none Medium/Word Count: 5.5k Pairing/main characters: Elyan/Gwaine Up to 10 tags: canon era, Elyan has magic

Summary:

Elyan has always had a hard time staying in one place. Thoughts of leaving always tempt him, even when he’s settled in Camelot as a knight. It doesn’t help that he always has to hide who he is and hide his magic. Then he and Gwaine grow close, too close, and maybe Elyan has a reason to stay put this time. Until Gwaine discovers his secret, and all Elyan wants to do is leave. Again.

AO3 link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/60069850

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Title: Merlin's knight in muddy armour. AO3 username: ohmerthurcharm | @oh-merthur-charm Rating: Mature Warnings: Angst Medium/Word Count: 1,244 Pairing/main characters: Gwaine/Merlin Up to 10 tags: Merlin's magic revealed, angst, kissing, crying, escape, bathing/washing, affection, hopeful ending.

Summary:

Arthur is saved by Merlin publicly just before he gets seriously injured. The problem? His magic was revealed by his daring attempt in saving his King's life. Now he is on the run, with two pairs of footprints being tracked by the King and his men. Merlin has help and it is Sir Gwaine himself. Prompt: Gwaine has always been Merlin’s knight. By: HadrianPeverellBlack. This is for the Rare pair fest 2024.

AO3 link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/60070792

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Title: The Green Duvet AO3 Username: pyjamacryptid | @pyjamacryptid Rating: Gen Warnings: Major Character Death Medium/Word Count: Fanfiction / 2,292 Words Pairing/Main Characters: Gwen & Gwaine, Elyan & Gwen, Elyan/Gwaine Up to 10 Tags: Merlin (TV) Season/Series 05, Grief/Mourning, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Angst, Canonical Character Death, Relationship Reveal

Summary:

Gwen, finally released from Morgana’s curse, finds herself with a lot of mourning to catch up on. Gwaine, mourning more than he lets anyone know, finds Gwen in Elyan’s room. They talk and, maybe, begin to heal.

AO3 Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/60070741

[witchmd13]

Considering that merlin writes Arthur's speeches for him and, with how overprotective he is, must know all of Arthur's correspondings, i genuinely want to know the lengths arthur must've gone through to hide his correspondings with nemeth for his and mithian's engagment. Merlin is literally with him all the time. HOW did arthur manage to hide this from him. and most importantly i love how this is basically just a clear admission of how IT IS the kigdom merlin helped him build. Arthur's thought process was literally like yes I'm the king. no i dont have the final say. merlin has the final say. everyone knows it so might as well admit it too.

[earlgreyinpajamas]

merthur fic recs: different first meeting

1. Here at the Altar I’m Letting You Go by messandahalf (@messandahalf10too)

Against Arthur's will, he is arranged to marry Princess Mithian from Nemeth. A minor problem occurs in Uther's plan for his son when the regular tailor for the Royal Family falls ill, requiring a replacement to sew Arthur's wedding attire.

~~~

fahjdkh the pining!!!

2. Woad Blue by MerlinLikeTheBird

They accidentally take over a castle. Well, Gwaine calls it liberating. Merlin’s not sure what to call it—there was a lord, and now there isn’t. (Kanen comes to Ealdor early, and that changes everything.)

~~~

the angst slaps so hard in this fic (though there is still a ton of fluff!)

3. We Can Hide Together, Among the Roses by infinitemerlin         

Arthur is supposed to marry Princess Mithian in five days.

And then he meets the wedding's florist.

Suddenly, he can't stop thinking about roses and happiness and—does he even deserve all of that?

~~~

ahhh this is so cute!!!

[prue84]

The Current and Future Pendragons

Fandom: BBC’s Merlin (canon divergence, post-canon) AU AU: The Royal Husbands (Aithusa Pendragon)

High King Arthur Pendragon and the royal family of Camelot.

AU in which a series of canon divergences lead to Arthur surviving the mortal wound inflicted him by Mordred at Camlann and, with the help of Merlin who then becomes his Prince Consort, bringing the golden age foretold by the prophecies.

———————————————————————————————

Manip planned few years ago, but started on the prompt of @tavernfest​. It's all @papysanzo's fault on Tumblr for reblogging the May round. Also @merthurotica​, but their post on my RSS feed turned up later.

———————————————————————————————

More about the AU under the cut and also at the AU edit. (More fanworks from this AU at the links above) (All rambles and how this manip was made under the cut. Please suffer with me.)

——————��————————————————————————

Arthur Pendragon, king of Camelot and High King of Albion. He successfully reunited the lands as the prophecies said, and also brought back magic. Few years after the victory of Camlann he married Merlin, who has become prince consort and second ruler of the kingdom. But, since unfortunately Merlin might be many things, but a woman with a womb he's not, Arthur (with Merlin) had to find a way to conceive a heir while being married to a man. Cue in Mithian, crown princess of Nemeth, equally saddled with the duty to give the throne a heir but uninterested in finding a husband trustful enough to sit at her side without potentially become a danger to her right to the throne. Together, the three of them reach an agreement that satisfies them all and they've been tight-close since. Their peculiar settlement initially was met with confusion and diffidence, but Mithian earned herself the thrust of everyone, and eventually the title of Queen of Camelot, third in line after Merlin. Peter is the first born of this union and rightful heir to the throne of Camelot. He's a talented swordsman but he suffered through all his teen years because of the never-ending comparisons with his warrior father who is on another fighting level. With age he learned to accept that he'll never be a war king and nobody ever asked him to become one either. He isn't his father, his name isn't part of legends or prophecies; he wasn't born to unite Albion but to keep it united once the Age of the Once and Future King sees its dawn. He will be a good and fair king for the peaceful times of the golden age, and his duty will be to make sure all his father - and his father's husband - sacrifices won't be wasted, that what they built is preserved. Susan was conceived because Mithian wanted both a heir for her to entrust Nemeth and a daughter. She's stubborn and strong but also capable of great empathy and kindness, as her mother and the Pendragon women (when they not meet High Priestesses who manipulate them). She's a formidable archer. Handsome Caspian, the son of Gwaine and Lady Vivian, is courting her and she welcomes this game, but Susan is enjoying too much her freedom to settle for a marriage and a family of her own. She has time though. Aithusa is the cute, small thing of the family, although she's actually the oldest of the new Pendragon generation - not counting the centuries spent in the egg that make her older than the castle of Camelot itself. As per usual with the dragon race, Aithusa's growth is stunned by her remaining with her parents. Only by being left on their own to tend to themselves, a dragonling is forced to grow. Thus, despite she was hatched on the dawn of the golden age, before Arthur married Mithian, she's still a dragonling that can fit Arthur's shoulders - her second favorite spot after the sling she made Arthur wear for years under his shirt. She learned the human language and can talk with her half-dragon impaired siblings Peter and Susan, but her speech pattern still needs some work. She doesn't care though. She's not so eager to leave the nest.

———————————————————————————————

Aithusa, (officially the ward of the king, unofficially considered by anyone in the court his scales-covered, flame-breathing daughter) is actually the eldest, since she was the first to come to the family. So yes, she's the older sibling. Make of this knowledge what you want. She also is firm that Arthur is a dragon, just one kind that looks like humans. But he's totally dragon. And if he doesn't breath fire or doesn't understand the dragon language, is all Uther's fault who didn't teach him his dragon gifts. Since Arthur is clearly a dragon, while Mithian sadly isn't, Peter and Susan are to her half-dragons. She still claims that it's because of the half human blood in their veins that they are impaired and don't have any dragon skill.

There's a fanfic for Aithusa as the (still only) daughter of the royal husbands during Father's Day, if you're interested.

When the time comes, and Arthur retires to Avalon to sleep, Peter will ascend as new king of Camelot, whose court will be moved to the renovated Castle of the Old Kings (or a new castle - still have to decide on this). Susan will succeed to Mithian on the throne of Nemeth. Aithusa will inherit the nest itself, the castle of Camelot, to own and protect until Merlin will be ready to make use of it.

I decided that Caspian would be Gwaine's (and Vivian's) son out of looks alone, and out of a (wrong) belief that he was meant to be Susan's love in Narnia. I never watched the second movie, and by the time I finally read the books, I didn't want to change it. For the same reason, I don't have a woman for Peter. A potential daughter of Gwen and Lancelot wouldn't be bad, but not necessary. (The AU idea ends with Arthur's travel to Avalon for his sleep and a mention of Peter moving the court to another castle, to then a time skip focusing on Merlin, so I didn't really focus on Peter's or Susan's life.)

While I'm writing this I wondered if Merlin wouldn't want to have a child so to kickstart the dragonlords kind (although, unless Magic changes its rules, the child would never inherit the dragonlord powers, since Merlin doesn't die). It never occurred to me before. I'm not sure he'd feel like having children, if he already knew that he would be immortal and he would then be forced to see his children grow old and frail and then die. But who knows. He could have one or more with Mithian, especially once Arthur is gone to Avalon. In case, Edward Pensive is there for the picking. Also Lucy.

About the AU When Lancelot is sent sent back to the world of the livings after he sacrificed himself to close the Veil, Gwen realizes that, between the two boys she loves, a relationship with a knight of humble origins has better chances than the one with a king that comes with a throne and a heavy kingdom, and so she picks Lancelot over Arthur. Arthur, who has given his blessing to the couple, doesn't find the time nor interest to find himself a wife and he's still a golden bachelor by the time Camlann happens. Merlin manages to save him and they eventually acknowledge their feelings. The Court backs Arthur's wish to marry a male servant on the premise that Arthur will pick a woman to give the kingdom a heir. And here comes Mithian, who might be more interested in women, so Camelot and Nemeth can make an agreement that will make both households happy. Since Mithian is wonderful, and fondness between her and the Royal Couple of Camelot grows, she's eventually given the title of Queen of Camelot, third in line after the King and the Prince Consort. Arthur and Mithian will have two children, the first born a male who will inherit Camelot and the second a daughter that will inherit Nemeth.

———————————————————————————————

Tec stuffs (aka Behind The Manip) Both a challenge and a nightmare. The original picture is four people. I needed five. Now, onto the specific characters - in order of making. Mithian, who had to be moved to make space for Merlin, was surprisingly easy to make. I wished to delete the lions on the dress, and replace them with either the Pendragon dragon or the Nemeth bull, but it was too much even for me, so I gave up. Removing them altogether felt odd - the dress is black with little movement, and without the lions it felt just one blotch of black. Susan. I'm not satisfied. The actress picture was perfect in pose but it has something in colors/lights that makes it stand out and look a bit more fake. Whatever. Peter. It took me a while to find the picture that would fit the body. Initially I kept the original body's curly hair, for I didn't feel like William Moseley's hairstyle would acceptable in a Medieval setting. But then I changed my mind, and remade it. He might be a bit too stocky for my liking but the body is that and making him less bulkier is out of option. On the chest the costume featured a cross: I erased it to be replaced it with the Pendragon dragon in the same style. Quite proud of how that turned out. Can't say the same for the sword. Yes, Arthur's son has a name sword which is coincidentally the sword of Peter Pensive. But the change was a given. Merlin was one challenge. I planned to use another body for his (the same king from Vikings but with another costume) but the picture just didn't work out. The one I chose... featured the man from the knees above. Which meant reconstruction for legs (which meant stealing the legs from Arthur's base - coincidentally it's always the same character!)... and the cloak. That was the true challenge! Also. I like how it turned out, but it just irks me that Colin doesn't look in the camera. But that picture was perfect and the result is fine. It did take me some tinkering to place the circlet but all in all I'm satisfied in how prince Merlin turned out. Bonus point for my headcanon marriage ring that didn't look good (the manip is too small for decent rings renderings), but I managed to add another from a jewelry maker that does rings in a style very similar to Ygraine's canon ring. Be sure to visit their Etsy and die. Ygraine's sigil, that replace the medallion the original body was wearing, is a given as well. Too bad we don't have a decent prop pic of it. Now. Arthur. Bloody Arthur. Tinkering with the original body to change colors from blue to red was funny. The rest NOT. Replacing the original sword with Excalibur, which was mandatory, gave a mild result. Ygraine's ring is there but, given the small size, isn't looking good enough. And those were the easy things! Because then it came the time to place bearded Bradley. Now. We do have few nice bearded Bradley pics, courtesy of the man himself, but they were mostly too small to work with in this manip - and/or in poses that wouldn't fit the body. You might say: there's Vikings: Valhalla. No, my friend. I downloaded ALL the screencaps available and very few worked, and - given the costume the character wears, there was never a inch of Bradley's bearded neck. In the end I worked with one of the pics Bradley released on Instagram. A pic with a black background in which bear and hair blended in. And an hard shadow on the right side of the face. A nightmare to cut, a nightmare to fix. And then the crown. The crown comes from The Hollow Crown. It looks similar but it isn't the same refurbished prop (different decorations, slightly different proportions of the fleur-de-lis). Years ago, when I saw the pics, I decided this would be older!Arthur's crown, for it's more regal with its fake gems and golden coating. There wasn't a pic with the proper perspective, so I had to tweak it a bit. It doesn't look awful, mind me, but I feel something's off with how it's placed on Bradley's head. I can't tell what, though - I used one of Arthur's coronation pics as reference while working, but still I can't fix what's wrong. In hindsight I wonder if I should've used a crowned Arthur pic with the original crown and be done with it. And then Aithusa. We literally have two pics of her, unless you want to work with night/dark screencaps. I knew where I wanted to have her, no idea how to. Still not happy. Does she looks fake? Yes. But at this time I just gave up. Whatever. (Besides, the other options didn't work. Her standing promo pic at Arthur's feet? Her fore legs are in a different perspective. Her standing promo pic on Arthur's shoulders? There was enough space, her head would be cut out from the picture and there was no way to extend the base pic by 50px, that specific background is a bitch to work with).

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Credits

1. + 18. Vikings, season 4 promo pictures. ( farfarawaysite.com/section/vikings/gallery4/gallery21/gallery.htm ) 2. Janet Montgomery from Salem, season 1 promo picture. ( farfarawaysite.com/section/salem/gallery1/gallery14/gallery.htm ) 3. Anna Popplewell from Reign, season 1 promo picture. ( farfarawaysite.com/section/reign/gallery1/gallery1/gallery.htm ) 4. Vikings, season 2 promo picture. ( farfarawaysite.com/section/vikings/gallery2/gallery1/gallery.htm ) 5. Colin Morgan from We Hunt Together. ( farfarawaysite.com/merlin/actors/colin/filmtv3/gallery.htm ) 6. The Hollow Crown, season 1 - Henry V. ( farfarawaysite.com/section/hollow/gallery1/gallery3/gallery.htm ) 7. Merlin, deleted scene - screencap. (Merlin's Keep at Far Far Away) 8. Spinner ring by artisanlook on Etsy. ( etsy.com/listing/462981991/spinner-ring-ruby-ring-silver-band ) 9. William Moseley from Bonnie Paul's 'It Was Love, Now It's War' Music Video photoshoot. ( justjared.com/photo-gallery/2650927/william-moseley-bonnie-paul-it-was-love-now-its-war-01 ) 10 + 11. The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian original prop (Peter’s sword and scabbard). ( uk.propstoreauction.com/view-auctions/catalog/id/78/lot/18159 ) 12. Merlin, original prop. (Merlin's Keep at Far Far Away) 13. Bradley James, photoshoot by Jose Palma (2021). ( instagram.com/p/CVvMc_AMC8m ) 14. Merlin, season 2 promo picture. (Merlin's Keep at Far Far Away) 15. The Hollow Crown, season 1 - Henry VI. ( farfarawaysite.com/section/hollow/gallery2/gallery2/gallery.htm ) 16. Bradley James from Vikings: Valhalla, 2x06 - screencap. ( kissthemgoodbye.net/PeriodDrama/index.php?cat=510 ) 17. Merlin, 4x11 - screencap. ( kissthemgoodbye.net/merlin/index.php ) 19 + 20. Merlin, creature picture. (Merlin's Keep at Far Far Away)

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Crossposted Livejournal: prue84.livejournal.com/97890.html Dreamwidth: prue84.dreamwidth.org/89442.html Deviantart: deviantart.com/prue84/art/The-Current-and-Future-Pendragons-964446326

[onceandfutureclotpoll]

Title: Yours, with affection

Author: Cithara

Rating: Explicit

Summary: A year into his reign as King, Arthur has legalised magic and makes an official visit to Nemeth to strengthen the alliance between the two kingdoms, and to seek counsel from the mysterious Druid named Merlin, whom Mithian has appointed her Court Sorcerer. Arthur, himself, has been communicating through letters with a Druid named Emrys, who has been assisting him, and with whom Arthur has been forming a deeper connection than he had intended. He finds himself torn between Merlin and Emrys, developing feelings for them both and wondering how on earth he is supposed to reconcile them.

[nooowestayandgetcaught]

Wonderful You, You, You

read on AO3

1.1k, Mithian/Elena/Vivian, E-rating, Canon AU Summary: Mithian invites the other princesses into Nemeth's tower-room for delectable delicacies and decadent delights of debauchery.

[justaz]

can’t stop thinking about merthian,,,

beautiful and talented queen of nemeth visiting camelot and everyone is like “are they getting married this time?” and nope! mithian is dragging merlin through the lower town laughing her ass off, both of them covered in mud, while some incoherent yelling is following them. oh yeah and mithian? the queen? dressed in what looks like one of merlin’s outfits. pants and all!!

merlin whispering in both arthur and mithian’s ears as the feast progresses, making fun of the snobby nobles and sharing the gossip he catches. mithian choking on her wine as she stifles a laugh while arthur just bites back a smile, all too used to merlin’s antics

[wumiings]

Then Is Courtesy a Turncoat

Arthur was starting to think King Rodor of Nemeth simply found some cheap thrill in putting himself and his kingdom at the mercy of sorcerers. He did not say this aloud - Guinevere would probably hit him - but the thought festered in his mind as Princess Mithian, more excitable than he’d ever seen her, introduced her companion of recent months.

The newly-titled Lady Emrys was supposedly someone the princess had known for a while, but who only recently accepted the position of Court Sorcerer in Nemeth after “circumstances” drove her from her previous residence in another kingdom. It was all, needless to say, highly suspicious. Not least of all because no one else seemed to agree.

Granted, this particular witch didn’t look overtly threatening. She was sturdily built, with the broad shoulders and muscular arms that spoke to a life of real work. Several wisps of dark brown hair had escaped from the long queue that draped over one shoulder and, paired with a crooked smile and glittering blue eyes, gave an impression of someone more like the lady Elena: playful by nature, and a bit scatterbrained.

But Arthur understood the trickeries of magic.

“Mithian has been a true friend to me,” Lady Emrys effused as she led them, strolling along on Elyan’s arm, through a tour of the keep. The very sight of them had Arthur gritting his teeth.

Leon and Gwaine, at least, had the good sense to show a degree of wariness in the face of this sorceress - the former through a stiff politeness that Emrys refused to take offense at, and the latter with his usual roguish flirtation which could not quite conceal the tension in his shoulders or the hint of a growl in his voice whenever the lady’s comments drifted towards criticism of Camelot.

In contrast, the Queen and her brother had taken to Emrys at once, as if she were some long-lost cousin. It flummoxed and aggravated Arthur beyond the bearing. He wished…

But there was no use thinking of that.

Merlin was long gone, and he wouldn’t be coming back.

—

read on ao3

[appropriatelystupid]

Do you have recs on any of those fics where morgana is treated right? 🙏 please

(i always feel like i have to preface the answer to this with: i have never once gone to the merlin section of ao3 to read a fic and as such all of these pair morgana with some version of kara)

if you ever see me mention rereading a morgana specific fic, it’ll be a part of one of the following three series’

Cadentibus Astris by @bibliophile-rhino-nerd

part one summary: King Rodor of Nemeth adopts the two fae children found in his land. Young Kal and Kara grow up in his court as members of his family, along with his daughter Mithian. But now that his children are growing a diplomatic party to their allies in Camelot is in order.

Or the Kara pretends to be the bastard child of a king and ends up being pushed into an arranged marriage with the Lady Morgana fic.

The Once and Future Alien also by @bibliophile-rhino-nerd

part one summary: After helping with the Dominator invasion, Kara's trip home didn't go as planned. Now, stuck in some sort of medieval hell scape without potstickers or her friends; Kara has to find a way home. Only problem is that she doesn't even know exactly where or when she is. The only way to survive and get home is to ask herself, What Would J'onn J'onzz Do? Problem is, he wouldn't run around being a hero, he'd blend in. So what to do when she finds herself in Camelot where things are dangerous, and people need to be protected?

where the heart moves the stone by @jazzfordshire

part one summary: In a desperate attempt to reclaim her throne, Morgana casts a dangerous summoning spell to call for aid. When the call is answered by a woman with no name and an even stranger story, the façade of vengeance and control that Morgana has cultivated so carefully begins to fall apart.

[xviruserrorx]

Merlin Tags

#bbc merlin

Seasons:

#merlin s1 : 1x01 - 1x02 - 1x03 - 1x04 - 1x05 - 1x06 - 1x07 - 1x08 - 1x09 - 1x10 - 1x11 - 1x12 - 1x13

#merlin s2 : 2x01 - 2x02 - 2x03 - 2x04 - 2x05 - 2x06 - 2x07 - 2x08 - 2x09 - 2x10 - 2x11 - 2x12 - 2x13

#merlin s3 : 3x01 - 3x02 - 3x03 - 3x04 - 3x05 - 3x06 - 3x07 - 3x08 - 3x09 - 3x10 - 3x11 - 3x12 - 3x13

#merlin s4 : 4x01 - 4x02 - 4x03 - 4x04 - 4x05 - 4x06 - 4x07 - 4x08 - 4x09 - 4x10 - 4x11 - 4x12 - 4x13

#merlin s5 : 5x01 - 5x02 - 5x03 - 5x04 - 5x05 - 5x06 - 5x07 - 5x08 - 5x09 - 5x10 - 5x11 - 5x12 - 5x13

Characters:

Main: arthur pendragon | morgana pendragon | guinevere pendragon | merlin emrys | sir gwaine | sir elyan | sir lancelot | sir percival | sir leon | sir mordred | gaius the court physician | uther pendragon | agravain de bois

Side: mithian of nemeth | ygraine de bois | bbcm sefa | bbcm freya | bbcm morgause | bbcm nimueh | bbcm iseldir | king cenred | geoffrey of monmouth | alator of the catha |

One Off: bbcm daegal | bbcm kara | eoghan the map makers apprentice | bbcm gilli | edwin muirden | tyr seward | will of ealdor | elena of gawant | princess vivian | anhora keeper of the unicorns | tristan de bois | bbcm alvarr | bbcm enmyria | julius borden | bbcm aglain | lady catrina | aredian the witchfinder | knight valiant | king alined | the cailleach | bbcm tauren

Extra: knight!merlin | shade!lancelot | enchanted!arthur | enchanted!gwen |

Ships: (that I know of)

Arthur: #arlance | #arlyan | # armor | #arwen

Elyan:

Gwaine: #gwaincelot | #gwainevere

Gwen:

Leon:

Lancelot:

Merlin: #merthur | #mergwen | #mergana | #merwaine | #merlance | #merleon | #merwill | #merthian |

Mordred:

Morgana: #morgwen |

Percival: #perwaine | #perlyan |

| #geon | #morgal | #morra

Poly ships:

#merwaincelot | #mergwenthur | #mergwainthur | #merlyanthur |

Group Tags:

pendragon house

pendragon siblings

smith siblings

knights of camelot

people of the old religion

awotc

[merlinrarepairfest]

Title: The Mirrhe sweete bleeding, the Ash for nothing ill AO3 username: Zorbo_Jorks | @zorbojorks Rating: G Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Medium/Word Count: Fic/ 1300 words Pairing/main characters: Elena/Mithian; Elena, Mithian Up to 10 tags: First Meetings, Feasts & Banquets, Pre-Relationship, Post-Season/Series 3, Cute and Happy, Horse Talk, Bonding over Horses

Summary:

It has been months since Elena has been freed of her changeling curse, and to say the adjustment to normal princess-hood has been easy would be a flat-out lie. She is still the same clumsy, blustering young woman she ever was, only now she is aware of how embarrassing that can be for her. Especially when her father is hosting a feast for delegates of neighboring kingdoms. Even more so when one of those delegates is Princess Mithian of Nemeth, who has the keen ability to fluster Elena with just a look and a smile. Oh, how can she possibly make it through the evening?

AO3 link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/60066730

[like-sands-of-time]

Was mithian the crown princess of nemeth? Rather big move to have two leaders attempting to marry and join whole countries over some disputed lands . Does the king expect to have another child before he dies ..?

[adhd-merlin]

hihi :) idk if you're still doing the rarepair asks, but for your consideration:

mithian/morgana

first, the enemies to lovers potential is fantastic. i know they only had one episode where they actually interacted, but it could work! unlike morgause, morgana doesn't seem to derive too much pleasure from dealing with greasy warlords; i feel like she has much more fun with other women - particularly those from the 'good' (non-magic) side. it's the whole kind of control/corruption kink with her, if she can turn them to her side, even forcefully or for a short time, she gets quite a bit of satisfaction from that.

plus, mithian at that point is kind of similar to gwen: she's kind, courageous, and was once involved with arthur; so i feel like morgana would also be interested in her because of that. and then you have that one scene of mithian being kind of worried about morgana because using her magic is hurting her, could also be translated (in the realms of fanfic) to mithian being attracted to morgana but fighting it. them being together would be toxic as anything, but it would be hot, that's all i'm saying.

(plus if you threw in gwen, like say gwen went to nemeth after being exiled and her and mithian got involved, that would be a whole other dynamic) - i could go on but i'll stop here :)

incredibly rare, extremely precious. only for the refined taste of the fandom connoisseur