#the clotpole speaks

[itzy-bitsy-spidey]

Merlin's assistant

Pt.2. Introductions

Merlin BBC X fem!reader

"This, my dear assistant, is king Arthur Pendragon of Camelot" Merlin introduced, and the sheer joy that showed in his smile managed to drown any posible witty remark Arthur had thought of making.

"HOLD ON A SECOND" on the other hand the loudness from the girl kind of made him wish she was once again arranging bottles in silence.

"He is Arthur Pendragon, as in the Arthur Pendragon I've heard so much about these last few years?" The smile in her face could barely contain all of her exciment, if the way she was flapping her hands up and down was any type of sign. A little bit more emotion and she would surely be jumping up and down in front of him.

Merlin eyes softened at the sight of the girl and his smile went from excited to fond rather quilckly for Arthur's liking. He had just then remembered the way she had called his friend a few moments ago.

Love.

Now, Arthur might not had been the brightest one in the room, even if he would never admit it, but if something was not up between those two then he had never been dead.

So lost he had been in his own thoughts he had missed what Merlin had to say about him. But whatever it was it certaninly reassured who he was, because she looked ready to explode.

"Oh, you have to tell me about Camelot, I've asked Merlin before but with his memory we honestly never get anywhere and all he can tell me is about how you would always get in trouble, or be cursed, or how your father would be cursed, or the kingdom, or..." somehow, the girl had managed to get all of that out of her sistem in just one breath before Merlin cut her off.

"Alright, that's enough kiddo, why don't you better go look for some clothes for our guest?"

"I'm literally your age, you old man!" She complained to the warlock but nevertheless got up anf started walking away.

"No you're not, and if you were, that would make you an old man!" Merlin quiped right back at her, raising his voice so he could be heard.

"Age doesn't change gender you dumbass!" at that point the girl's voice was just that, a voice, because she had completely dissapeared from sight. Two seconds passed in silence before she finished her statement "But apparently it does make you lose braincells!"

Merlin shot a nasty look at the door she had left through, but decided against continuing fighting, and instead chose to put his attention on the very confused king.

"Sooo, who was that exactly?" Finally asked Arthur after a while of sitting in silence.

In response Merlin grabbed a chair and sat in front of his friend, his eyes flashed golden for a second and tea started preparing itself while the warlock answered the question.

"She's my assistant, helps me with things around here and in exchange she lives here where it's peaceful" he explained at the same time a cup filled with chamomile tea landed gracefully in front of Arthur.

"Your assistant? You? Have an assistant?" The tone of the king's voice sounded almost mocking, but Merlin raised both his eyebrows at him and continued.

"I don't see what you find so funny you clotpole, I was tecnically your assistant back in the day".

Something about hearing Merlin speak about them as if they had happened a long time ago hurted deep inside Arthur's chest. His heart twisted into a knot when he realized that for Merlin, for his best friend, it had truly been long ago.

Truth to be told, the blonde king had woken up that day in the lake and had just felt as if no time had gone by, as if he had just slept for a few minutes, a few hours at most.

But it hadn't been like that for Merlin, if he had understood it right it had been hundred of years of loneliness for the magic boy, hundred of years of waiting, never really knowing if he would come back.

Suddenly the idea of the girl being around Merlin didn't sit so bad with him anymore, at least he wasn't completely alone, he hoped there had been other friends for Merlin before her too, people that could have helped him carry the load that waiting for his friend might have been.

[yorit1]

Merlin was excited. It was the day of his wedding. He and Arthur have been dating since Morgana and Gwen's wedding. Gwen was Merlin's best friend, and Morgana was Arthur's sister. Merlin and Arthur met when Gwen and Morgana moved in together. At first, they did not get along. But they soon became fast friends. They finally admitted their feelings for each other at Gwen and Morgana's wedding. Merlin and Arthur had proposed to each other at the same time. It was magical. Their friends were all there watching as they proposed to each other. Merlin was preparing for his wedding with Gwen, Lance, and Gwaine. He wore his wedding suit and thought he looked good if he could say so himself. "You look so handsome, Merlin," Gwen cooed. "You look good, my friend," Lance said. "Princess is one lucky man," Gwaine leered and winked at Merlin. "Okay, let's get going. We don't want you late for your wedding," Gwen said. Merlin looked at himself in the mirror one last time and left to get married.

Arthur was nervous. Today, he was marrying his best friend. His other half. The idiot Merlin. Arthur could not believe that the day had arrived. It feels like he has been waiting for years to marry Merlin. He was in his suite with Morgana, Leon, Elyan, and Percy, helping him prepare for the wedding. "How do I look?" Arthur asked. "If I wasn't a lesbian and you weren't my brother, I'd marry you," Morgana said. "You look good, man," Percy said. "I'm so happy that you are marrying Merlin. You deserve to be happy, Arthur," Leon said. "Maybe I'll meet my perfect match at this wedding," Elyan said. Arthur looked at himself in the mirror. He thought he looked good. He appreciated what he saw in the mirror and thought Merlin would enjoy it. "Time to go. We don't want Merlin to wait," Leon said. Arthur looked at his reflection one last time and turned to leave the suite.

Merlin was walked down the aisle by Hunith. He and Arthur would walk down the aisle one after the other. First, Gwen and Morgana walked down the aisle hand in hand. Leon, Lance, Elyan, Percy, and Gwaine followed them. Finally, it was Merlin's turn to walk down the aisle. He was excited to walk down with his mum. He was marrying the man of his dreams. Growing up gay in a small village in Wales, he never thought he would get married. But his best friend introduced him to the man that he was marrying. He arrived at the alter, and Arthur arrived a moment later. Merlin and Arthur turned to face each other. Merlin thought that Arthur looked handsome in his suit. He looked regal with his blonde hair and the suit. He could not believe that soon he would be his husband. Arthur took Merlin's hands, and they stared into each other's eyes. Merlin could see Arthur's love for him shining in his eyes. Merlin was happy. "We are gathered here today to celebrate the marriage of Merlin and Arthur," the registrar said. "If anyone knows why these two should not get married, speak up now or forever hold your silence." Merlin looked around and saw that everyone was smiling at them. Merlin was happy that no one objected to him marrying Arthur. "Good, no objections," the registrar said. "Let's get started. Merlin and Arthur have prepared their vows." "Growing up gay in a small village in Wales, I thought I'd forever be alone. Then I went to uni in London and met my best friend, Gwen. Gwen met the woman of her dreams and moved in with her. There, I met her brother. At first, I thought he was a prat. But soon, I got to know the person under the clotpole persona. He was kind and brave and stood up for those who couldn't stand up for themselves. We became friends, and I fell in love with him. I worried it would ruin our friendship, so I decided not to tell him. Then, we had a situation at Gwen and Morgana's wedding, and finally, we admitted our feelings to each other. Since we started dating, I have been the happiest ever. All my dreams came true. I had an amazing boyfriend who I loved. I was loved back. Today, my last dream comes true: I get to marry the man of my dreams. So, Arthur, I am ready to marry you," Merlin said, looking into Arthur's eyes. "When I realised I was bisexual, it wasn't easy for me. I knew that Uther wouldn't accept me. I was worried about what he would think. Morgana was already out as a lesbian, and he was furious. Morgana was moving in with her girlfriend, Gwen. At the housewarming party, I met an idiot. He spoke to me like no one has ever before. I was bewitched. You got under my skin. I couldn't get you out of my head. Uther still hoped I'd marry a society lady since I also like women. But from that moment on, it has only been Merlin. You have bewitched me heart and soul. I am so happy to marry you and spend the rest of my life with you. You, my idiot," Arthur said, staring into Merlin's eyes. "Great, let's move on to the next part," the registrar said. "Repeat after me. I, Merlin Emerys, take you, Arthur Pendragon, as my lawful wedded husband." "I, Merlin Emerys, take you, Arthur Pendragon, to be my lawful wedded husband," Merlin said. "I, Arthur Pendragon, take you Merlin Emerys to be my lawful wedded husband," the registrar said. "I, Arthur Pendragon, take you, Merlin Emerys, to be my lawful wedded husband," Arthur said. "With this ring is a symbol of my love," Merlin said as he slid the ring on Arthur's finger. "This ring shows all my love for you," Arthur said as he slid the ring on Merlin's finger. "Great, I now pronounce you husbands. You may kiss each other," the registrar said. Arthur and Merlin kissed. Merlin could not believe that he was kissing his husband. The kiss was sweet, and they swayed slightly as they kissed. It was one of their best kisses. Merlin took Arthur's hand, and they walked down the aisle as everyone threw confetti at them. Merlin could not believe that he was married. All his dreams had come true.

As Merlin and Arthur walked to the hotel's reception room, Arthur thought he was now married. He could not believe that he had a husband. Merlin was Arthur's husband. He and Merlin were entwined for eternity. They walked into the reception room and saw that all their friends were there. He and Merlin walked to the table where Hunith, Morgana, and their closest friends sat. "Little brother, you finally joined us in marital bliss. Uther must be fuming both his children in same-sex marriages," Morgana said. Gwen kissed his cheek and sat down next to her wife. After eating the first course, it was time for their first dance. He and Merlin knew the perfect song to play for this, and Arthur was excited to dance with Merlin as husbands. "May I have this dance?" Arthur asked Merlin as he put his arm out for Merlin to take. Merlin stood up, and they went to the dance floor. Merlin and Arthur put their arms around each other and started swaying to the music. Arthur looked into Merlin's eyes as they danced. Arthur could see all the love in Merlin's eyes. He knew that the same love was reflected in his own eyes. Arthur was so lost in the dance that the song soon ended. Soon, everyone was joining them on the dance floor. Arthur danced with Morgana, and Merlin danced with Hunith. Arthur was enjoying his dance with Morgana. He was lucky to have her support and at least one family member there on his wedding day. After dancing, it was time for the main course. The food was exquisite. This hotel has outdone themselves. It was finally time for Arthur and Merlin to cut their wedding cake. Merlin and Arthur were in sync while cutting the cake. Then Arthur shoved the piece of cake into Merlin's face as Merlin shoved the cake into Arthur's face. Merlin laughed, and Arthur thought it was the most beautiful sound he had ever heard. His husband laughed in delight for shoving cake into his face. Arthur took Merlin's face and kissed it. He tasted like the cake. His husband tasted good. Arthur could not wait to get to the wedding night part and for them to show each other exactly what they meant to each other. "I love you, idiot," Arthur said. "I love you, clotpole," Merlin said. They bid everyone goodbye and celebrated their wedding in their hotel room.

[spacecadet-ticklesinspace]

Trying Out Tickles

Summary: When Merlin chooses to sass him, Arthur decides to test some interesting information he learned about his manservant.

(Merry Christmas @cantsaythetword ! ❤️ :) I was your squealing Santa this year! ❤️ :) I loved the TV show the first time I saw it and instantly knew Merlin had to be ticklish ❤️ :) I hope you have a Happy Holiday however you celebrate, and a great New Year ❤️ :))

"Merlin, you idiot! You'll dent it!"

The dark haired boy cringed as he pulled himself up from the floor. "It's armor Arthur."

"Still. A future king shouldn't appear before his people with dented armor."

"Stop having battles and you'll have nothing to worry about your royal pratness."

As Merlin picked up the dropped armor pieces, Arthur scowled. "I'd advise you not to speak to me like that."

"Yeah well when have I ever listened to your advice."

While Merlin muttered insults and picked up the pieces, a small smile pulled at the corner of the future king's mouth. He knew Merlin never meant any harm. He just did it to get under Arthur's skin. Then, as Merlin gathered the last of the pieces, Arthur took a step toward him. "I want to be able to see myself in the reflection before practice tomorrow."

"Thought you didn't want to dent it?"

"Huh?"

"One look at your face and the whole piece will bend."

Arthur reached to smack the back of Merlin's head. However, the younger boy managed to duck and gave Arthur a playful bump with his hip.

"Oi!"

Merlin smirked. "What about those reflexes your majesty?"

"You know, you're getting on my nerves."

The younger boy dodged another attack from Arthur. "Just have that affect on people."

"Idiot."

"Clotpole!"

"Moron!"

As the last insult left his mouth, Arthur reached forward to poke the younger boy's chest. However, at the sight of Arthur's hand moving, Merlin had reactively turned. So instead of poking his chest, Arthur's finger poked his ribs.

A surprised squeak left Merlin's mouth as he jumped away.

"What is wrong with you?"

"Y-your finger hit a bruise."

Arthur tried to cover up his concern with sarcasm. "Don't be such a girl Merlin."

The younger boy glared at the future king of Camelot. "Then don't be such a dunce!"

Arthur reached forward and poked Merlin's ribs again.

And once again, Merlin squeaked and jumped, but he couldn't quite hide the nervous giggles that followed. "Aharthur!"

Arthur's brow furrowed as he studied the thinner boy. The response did not equal a bruise on the ribs. "Are you sure it's a bruise?"

Merlin immediately backed away. "Yes, and don't gehet any ideheas!"

"Any ideas about what?"

"N-nothing!"

"What's gotten into you Merlin?"

"Nothing!"

Arthur watched with a slight twinge in his heart as the younger man scurried away. How had he gone from cocky to cowering in the blink of an eye? Had he really been that injured? Had someone done something to his ribs? Had Arthur done something? He had seemed fine all day today.

For another moment, the future king mulled over the clues. A memory from an interaction he had accidentally seen between Merlin and his mother Hunith had caused a similar response. He had completely forgotten about it until now. And, if memory served correct, Hunith had used a certain technique that had her son squealing and squirming as he apologized.

What was it she had called it? Something with a T? Arthur thought to himself.

Finally, a light clicked on. It was tickling.

Growing up in the castle, Arthur had never really been tickled before. He had occasionally been tazered on the side or ribs by Morgana, and he had a few memories from his younger days of Gaius spidering some fingers under his chin or behind his ears to distract him from things. However, he had never been properly tickled before and he for sure had never tickled anyone else.

Guess that's about to change.

With a smirk on his face, Arthur followed Merlin. The stables were quiet at this hour and Merlin had been rude to him. So it seemed like the perfect opportunity for Arthur to practice.

Inside the small room, the younger man was busy distracting himself by cleaning the armor pieces he had brought with him. With a grin, Arthur quietly locked the door before stepping closer to his manservant.

Once he was close, he clapped Merlin's shoulders. "Merlin!"

The younger man jumped, sending the pieces clattering to the floor once again. Merlin immediately punched Arthur's arm. "Do you normally annoy people this much or am I just the exception?"

"What has gotten into you Merlin?" The future king firmly grabbed his manservant's wrist. "You've dropped my armor twice, talked to me in a manner not fit to address a future king, and now you're attacking me?"

Merlin growled and tried to free his wrist from the hold. It didn't hurt, but he didn't like the fact that Arthur clearly had more strength than him.

As if to prove that thought, Arthur gently tugged Merlin toward him before quickly turning him around. Two arms then held him in place as he tried to squirm away.

"Arthur!"

"Maybe it's time someone taught you a lesson."

"Go for it! I'm used to the stocks."

"Who said I was putting you in the stocks?"

"What then?" Merlin stiffened. "Are you going to hit me instead?"

"Of course not. That's reserved for people who have done something horrid." The future king lowered them both to the floor. "Not for sassy manservants who are rude to their king."

Merlin raised an eyebrow at the change.

"Just to make sure you don't hurt yourself."

"What are you doing?"

"Something new." Arthur wrapped him in a hug and placed his hands around Merlin's thin sides. "Hunith gave me the idea."

Something about the situation clicked, making the younger man's eyes widen. "Dohon't you dare!"

"Don't do what Merlin?"

Merlin's mouth clamped his mouth shut.

"What Merlin?"

A head shake was his only response.

Arthur tried to bite back a smile as his manservant's squirming picked up again. "I can't stop if you don't tell me what it is I need to stop."

A squeak slipped out when Arthur's hands lightly squeezed. "Arthur!"

"Again, what's wrong Merlin?" The future king squeezed again with a little more force. "Ticklish?"

"Ah! Noho!"

Arthur couldn't hold back the grin on his face as he added in more and more squeezes.

"No! Ah! Clohotpohole!"

"You insulting me does not make me want to stop."

"Jerk!"

The future king's hands slowly squeezed upwards. "What was that?"

Merlin's laughter suddenly broke out when Arthur's hands made contact with his ribs. It didn't help that his thinner frame made it easier to grab and squeeze.

However, for all his squirming and insulting, Merlin never told Arthur to stop, nor did he try to pull away. He stayed squirming in the same place in Arthur's arms.

The future king smirked as he latched on to the spaces between Merlin's ribs. He was going slow and cautiously so he wouldn't hurt his manservant. But it was fun to make him laugh and squirm like a girl.

Why hadn't he done this sooner?

Suddenly a random idea popped in to his mind. "Merlin? How many ribs does the human body have?"

"IHI DOHONT KNOHOW!"

"Well why don't we see?"

"WHAT!"

After placing his hands on Merlin's bottom most ribs, Arthur squeezed. "One."

"AH!"

Then his hands moved to the next two. "Two."

"NO!"

The next rib was squeezed. "Three."

"ARTHUR!"

"Quiet Merlin. Now look what you've done. I've lost count and have to start all over again."

"No yohou dOHONT!"

Over and over went Arthur's hands, turning Merlin into a cackling, snorting mess.

"Ugh, I'm bored now." The future kings hands dug into Merlin's stomach. "What's hiding down here?"

The younger man squeaked as he curled into a ball.

"Ah, so it's a curling spot I see."

"Shut uhup!"

"Interesting, but not very entertaining." Arthur experimentally squeezed Merlin's hip. "What about here?"

Merlin jumped! His laughter shot up in volume and he let out a wheeze.

"Oo, that's more like it."

The younger man shoved Arthur's chest and tried to worm away but he was quickly pulled back.

"Let's see if we can find another one."

"Lehet's nohot!"

"Come now Merlin." This time Arthur's hand wormed its way into the younger man's armpit. "Didn't Hunith teach you to share?"

While not as ticklish as his hips, Merlin's armpits still produced a ton of laughter and squirms. Arthur would be lying if he said he wasn't enjoying this atleast a little bit. Merlin looked absolutely adorable and his contagious smile brought one to the future king's face too.

He decided to try one more thing before releasing the breathless younger man. Arthur leaned forward and pressed his lips against Merlin's neck before blowing hard. In response, Merlin squealed and kicked his legs just as he had for Hunith.

Once he was through, Arthur held Merlin close a little longer. "Now, if you get sassy again, I'll be forced to use same technique again."

The younger man kicked the future king's leg. "Dohont you dahare!"

"Ticklish idiot."

"Thihich headed Prahat!"

Arthur squeezed his knee. "Try that again?"

"AH! Yohou're royal prahatness!"

"That's more like it." The future king teased before playfully shoving him away. "Now come on, my armor still needs cleaning."

Merlin muttered, "Clean it yourself."

Arthur raised one eyebrow.

Merlin scurried to his feet and re-prepped the armor pieces for cleaning.

Arthur chuckled before heading out of the room. He trusted Merlin's work, but if he pushed the future king again, he may just have to use Hunith's tickle tactics all over again.

[yourneighbourhoodtraumatisedkids]

You've done favorite music and fanfics... what's your favorite fan arts???

Okay, it seems like it’s favourite fanart this time! Not everyone could make it, but five people could, so we’re trying our best here!

*Clotpole and Hairdo Guy fixing the camera while Dark Raven goes through the script.*

Dark Raven: It says that it’s Claire this time on the list.

Clotpole: Yeah, I can’t deal with Toby anymore. He’s being an ass.

Hairdo Guy: *cracks knuckles* Need me to go talk to him?

Clotpole: Not unless you want a murderous time traveller on your heels. I can possibly get away with it, but don’t for even one second do you think you can get away with it, bitch.

Hairdo Guy: *flings hair* Who are you calling bitch here, darling?

Dark Raven: Hairdo, love you and all, but… no. Just no. 

Hairdo Guy: Fine. Get the first person on here so we can get shit over and done with.

Clotpole: *clears throat* CLAIRE, YOU’RE UP!

*Claire enters the room, grinning as she sits down on the first chair set up in a semicircle.*

Dark Raven: Hey, C-Bomb. If you don’t mind me asking, what is… your favourite fanart?

Claire: This one https://www.tumblr.com/inecole/649990950312181760/best-girl-some-more-of-my-weird-sense-of?source=share by @inecole. I really just like their type of style when drawing me, and typically, I’ve always been drawn to that sort of style.

Dark Raven: *glances at Clotpole* Yeah, no, we’re always going to be starting with her in the future, Boss.

Clotpole: Yeah, I’m going to have to agree with you there. NEXT!

*Douxie walks into the room, and sits down next to Claire*

Douxie: Ladies, my dear sir.

Clotpole: Okay, Douxie, none of the posh nonsense until after we get to cut the shooting.  Tell us, favourite fanart?

Douxie: Has to be this one: https://www.tumblr.com/honeyxmonkey/726948737517322240/more-of-him-douxies-hair-getting-long-in-the?source=share by @honeyxmonkey. I want my long hair back sometimes, and this piece of fanart certainly proves how much I need it.

Claire: *giggles* You’d look good with long hair.

Hairdo Guy: But my hair will always look better.

Dark Raven: Dude, we get it- your hair is amazing, it floats, and it likes whipping my boyfriend in the face. Speaking of which… where is Dollophead?

Clotpole: *blushes* Nowhere.

Dark Raven: I’m guessing it’s a secret, right?

Clotpole: You guessed it, sister!

Dark Raven: Well, as long as Lance and him don’t break into a museum again, I say we’re safe.

Clotpole: That wasn’t Dollophead, that was Lance, KK and Hairdo Guy.

Dark Raven: He was on video call with them. I was there.

Douxie: Wait, Hairdo Guy, Lance and KK broke into a museum?!?!

Claire: I mean, so did Jim and Toby. Nothing new to me.

Clotpole: Guys, I spent effort writing this script and we’re going off track already. And we need to get this posted by Tuesday at the latest we can! So let’s hurry up, okay?! NEXT!

*Mary walks in and sits down, before swinging her legs into Douxie’s lap*

Mary: I am so done with this room- I swear it doesn’t do our asks any justice.

Hairdo Guy: *shrugs* None can do, m’lady. You’re just going to have to do with it. Anyway, favourite fanart?

Mary: You’re not Chat Noir, so don’t call me, m’lady. Anyway, my favourite fan art has to be… https://www.tumblr.com/avirxy/701584713464283136/the-chaos-that-would-unfold-if-theyd-all-been?source=share by @avirxy. Way too good. I honestly just fell in love with this meme draw.

Clotpole: Avirxy and Honey have really been getting our attention lately, but then again, they’re both way too good at what they do. Oi, Dark Raven, did you see that one ask I sent Avirxy of a possessed Jimgana from her angsty art meme?

Dark Raven: Oh yeah… that one you sent me- I remember that one. There’s like a world of wonder to explore with a possessed Jim, but there’s even more to explore when it’s Jim and Morgana as a romantic pairing-

Claire: NO WAY!

Clotpole: Okay, moving on! Dark Raven, please for the love of god don’t say that again- it’s Jlaire forever and Ajim at the maximum for my wondering ass to bear as a multishipper-

Hairdo Guy: And then there’s Jeves-

Clotpole: That’s our secret, you idiot-

Douxie: I can’t believe I’m saying this but FOR THE LOVE OF MASTER MERLIN, NEXT!

*Toby enters, wearing sunglasses*

Toby: Hello, beautiful world!

Clotpole: Did someone give him tequila?

Hairdo Guy: Is that really your first reaction to Toby wearing sunglasses?!?!?!

Clotpole: Shut up, man. Anyway, Toby, what is your favourite piece of fanart?

Toby: *sits down* This awesome piece: https://www.tumblr.com/jae-in-a-trenchcoat/730304134181470208/this-tag-absolutely-took-me-out?source=share by @jae-in-a-trenchcoat. Love your work, Jae! It was super random when I found it, but the look on Douxie’s face was so worth it.

Douxie: What do you mean?

Toby: Not now, dude. I’ll show you later.

Clotpole: *rolls eyes* Someone definitely gave him tequila- or something spiked with it. Anyway, final person, YOU CAN COME OUT NOW!

*Jim walks into the room, smiling*

Jim: Hey, guys!

*Jim sits down, and leans back into chair*

Dark Raven: What’s got you so cheery?

Jim: Nothing really. What’s the question today?

Clotpole: Favourite fanart?

Jim: Anything Percy Jackson.

Hairdo Guy: *facepalms*

Clotpole: Dude, we know you’re obsessed with Percy Jackson. We mean anything in the TOA side of things.

Jim: Wait… Trials of Apollo?

Clotpole: NO JIM, WE MEAN TALES OF ARCADIA, GODDAMMIT!

Dark Raven: Jim, just say it, dude. We’re going off script, and Clotpole needs a nap.

Jim: Then… anything by @bluheaven-adw. Love all her art.

Clotpole: *nods* Okay, I’m out of here. Claire, create me a shadow portal back to my house.

*Claire creates a shadow portal and Clotpole jumps into it, before it closes. Everyone looks at the camera.*

Mary: If you have any questions, hit that ask button, I guess.

Douxie: And give us a follow for more content!

*Claire hides her head in her hands*

Claire: Dios mio, we sound like a Youtube channel at this point.

*Jim turns to look at his girlfriend with a raised eyebrow*

Jim: We’re worse than that. We’re a Tumblr account with no sense of self preservation.

Toby: That’s just you, Jimbo. I say we get Discord and Twitter.

Everyone else apart from Douxie and Hairdo Guy: NO TOBY!

Douxie: I say we give at least Discord a shot.

Hairdo Guy: I’m up for anything, honestly.

*Suddenly, the lights switch off, and electricity crackles. Dark Raven sighs*

Mary: I think that was Clotpole saying no.

*Electricity crackles again.*

Jim: And that was her threatening us with a fate worse than death if we do any sketchy shit.

Dark Raven: And that's why we don't talk about Twitter out of all the things you could, Toby.

*camera cuts to black*

[curseconsumed]

'This isn't you.'

from here.

( From: Benjamin Tallmadge to Clara / melpomeneprose )

"What isn't me?" Clara asked, her chin stiff with annoyance. "With all due respect, Mr. Bolton, you seem under the impression that womenfolk are forthright in our mannerisms -- that we haven't developed a universal need to conceal our true desires, for fear of losing inheritance and marriage proposals." Her lips curled into a simper. "Not that I'm overly concerned, of course. I'm not so sure I want to be tied to the same clotpole day in and day out. "

Irritably, she flicked open her fan, cooling herself amidst the back gardens. "Even so, I find it puzzling how after only a fortnight of acquaintance, you seem to think you know precisely how I would or should behave." Clara sneered, her green eyes glittering. "In my experience, a man only presumes so much once he's gotten inside my mutton. What's your excuse, hmm? What makes you believe you know me?"

In truth, Clara was perplexed by John's behavior. There had been a man h.anged earlier in C.hatham S.quare -- a beastly r.ebel, at that -- so she couldn't even begin to understand why Mr. Bolton seemed so displeased with her attendance.

"It was a h.anging, not a scandal," she coolly said, deciding to cut off any further speculation. "The man committed t.reason against the Crown. You've claimed to be a staunch l.oyalist, sir, so speak true: are you so green that you'll recoil at the sight of necessary bloodshed?"

[the-epitome-of-sunsets]

you called?

testing, testing. jakob's my idiot of a brother, and i love sunsets.

call me dawn | she/they | istj | questioning | extrovert | not religious | minor | may 15 | taurus | dating this idiot called kyle | darci scott | a certified judo flipper | popular kid | warrior maiden | dyscalculia | | hopeless romantic | hot people on my mind 24/7 | insane soul | half greek half african-american | green eyed dad girl | am a hoe- accept it | nobility | cabin 7 gurl | slytherin | candor | the most noble of the knights | chronically online | public school kid | youngest child | forsenics | sunsets, sunsets and more sunsets

DNI IF: pro-israel, zionist, homophobic, islamophobic, antisemetic, proshipper, religiophobic, xenophobic, transphobic, ableists, anti-blm, porn bot, pro-facist, MAPs, NSFW, racist, sexist, creep, or if you want me to judo flip you :)

fandoms: tales of arcadia, riordanverse, harry potter, marauders, avatar the last airbender, ghosts (bbc), ghosts (us), merlin bbc, boarders, four o'clock club, get even (bbc), creeped out, owl house, grishaverse, and kotlc

music: taylor swift, ariana grande, stray kids, one direction, conan gray, olivia rodrigo, rosendale, lewis capaldi, ava max, billie eilish, miley cyrus, bob marley, tate mcrae, MKTO, alan walker, alexander stewart, nico collins and ed sheeran

hobbies: judo, netball, football, fencing, ballet, fitness, underthinking shit, tumblr, pinterest, embroidery, painting, listening to music, guitar, reading, being a material girl, swearing and cussing, and judo flipping my brother

personal tags:

#the epitome speaks- if i need to speak

#the epitome rants- vent stuff

#tsunami whirls- about jakob

#this punk ass bitch- about cassie

#lightning shatters- about siya

#im going to kill this jock- about my bf kyle

#my beloved moots

I support Palestine. If you don't, you better run, because I will track you down and shoot you with the gun I hide in the basement. If you don't, you're a zionazi- end of story.

@that-one-clotpole & @the-ocean-is-inside-of-me thank you for the help with blog aesthetic <3

I share an account with @the-punk-and-the-jock too <3

Hey! I'm Dawn. I'm a minor, and I decided to join this hellsite, because of my brother- @the-ocean-is-inside-of-me. I thought it would be best to watch over him, and also because I wanted to see what exactly Tumblr has it in for me. You see, I'm the granddaughter of a Greek mafia boss, and I've seen... interesting things. Let's see how crazy this hellsite can get. My ask box is open, as well as my DMs, if you wanna talk, have any concerns or if you just wanna be friends! Oh, and don't you dare try to hurt my brother, or our friends, because if I do, you're invoking the wrath of the ✨judo flipper✨. I think that's all from me! Stay safe, little people on my phone. Dawn, signing out.

[tansyuduri]

Watching Arthur make jokes undermining his pain while actively being killed or just waking up from being nearly killed. It just part of my life in this fic

Slight spoilers bellow but I'm kinda proud of these from the rough draft

He was alive. He was alive. It had been so close. If Merlin had not had that rush of inspiration… 

“M-merlin?” Merlins pounding heart lept into his throat at the sound of that voice. He had thought he would never heard it again. 

“Here” He managed to keep his voice even. “I just saved your royal ass, again” His effort to remain calm was ruined by breaking out into renewed sobs as soon as he finished speaking. 

“Hmmmm That w-would explain… why I’m no l-longer in the water. Was not, enjoyable.” Arthurs tone shifted as he seemed to realize Merlin was sobbing. “Merlin? Crying like... ”

“If you tell me I’m crying like a girl I WILL put you down Arthur. I don’t want to put you down.” Merlin pulled Arthur even tighter to himself. One hand still cradled the back of Arthur’s head as he held him. Running his fingers gently through Arthur's blond hair. He tried and failed to stop his sobs. And Merlin moved to Arthurr who was swaying slightly.  “No more of them then?” Arthur asked. The sword slipped from his prince's gasp to the floor of the room. Merlin did not reply he was too busy tearing the sheets to make bandages. “Merlin?” Arthur asked. 

“Hold still” Merlin told him and began frantically trying to bandage his prince's wounds. He didn’t think they had hit anything vital but Arthur was loosing blood quickly.

“You don’t get to tell me what to do” Arthur sagged sideways and Merlin caught him, wrapping one of Arthur's arms around his shoulders. “We have to get you to Gaius…” To his horror the bandages were already leaking blood, it trailed along the floor as Merlin half carried half helped Arthur stagger out the door. More blood and more! As they moved down the halls Merlin could see Arthur’s eyelids droop, his face was pale, sweaty and clammy. 

Merlin was mostly carrying him now. “Hey! Prat! Stay awake! “Clotpole!”

“Still can’t… tell me what to do” Arthur slurred out. Sagging against Merlin completely. 

“That is not funny! Merlin snapped as they rounded a corner. 

“Slightly funny Heh.” Arthur’s words slurred even more. 

[caniruineverything]

i get by with a little help from my friends

ft. merthur and a bit of whump/angst (and a teensy bit of morgwen)

Summary: Merlin doesn't understand why Arthur's acting weird, but when Uther takes it too far with his words one day, Merlin realizes why.

"Mer-lin!" At the sound of his name, the warlock spun around, only to be met with an irate Arthur slamming the door behind him as he walked in. And he had been in such a great mood earlier, he thought to himself.

"Yes, sire?" If he put a bit more ire in the greeting than normal, well that was between him and the long list of chores he was sure was heading his way.

"Have you really been cleaning this whole time?" The question was rhetorical, but Merlin answered anyway, foolishly.

"Yes, sire. Your room is quite messy. Really, it's a shame no one ever taught you how to clean up after yourself." And, well, on any other day, the jab wouldn't have been of any importance, but that day, Arthur was in quite the mood.

"Well, it's a shame no one taught you how to speak to your Prince. Leave, I don't want to see your stupid face." The words caused something in Merlin to shrivel up, despite his attempts to stop it. He'd thought he and Arthur had been getting closer. He'd apparently thought wrong.

He left, moving away from the room and the unreasonable prince as fast as he could. As he exited the palace, he realized Arthur had not given him anything else to do. Part of him wondered if that had been purposeful, but he quickly dismissed the thought. After that display, it was clear the prince had no intention of being generous.

With nothing else to do he walked home to see if there was anything Gaius needed him to do. The old man answered that he did not, in fact, have anything that needed to be done. Instead, he suggested Merlin go help out Gwen or the knights. Deciding this was both a good idea and a way to pass time, which moved slowly when he was away from Arthur, Merlin left to go do just that.

As he approached the palace steps, mentally making a list of the places Gwen was most likely to be found-he knew from experience that it was very difficult to find people in the palace-when a voice called from somewhere to his left.

"Merlin? I thought Arthur dismissed you."

"Gwen!" He couldn't help it, a grin broke out on his face at the sight of his friend, a sweet but slightly confused smile gracing her lips. "Just the person I was looking for!" At her questioning glance, he elaborated. "Yeah, the clotpole did let me out early, not sure why, so I wanted to see if you needed any help." He paused, and she took her cue to respond.

""Oh! Thanks." At this, Gwen smiled kindly and continued, "Nope! Morgana let me out early too, said something about the nice weather." Merlin smiled, knowing Morgana too was weak for Gwen's smile, just in a different way than he.

"That's kind of her. Well, if you need anything, you know where to find me!" She grinned back, seeing his smiling face, and continued on to her house. He stood there, once again with nothing to do. Should he check on Arthur again?

The urge to both see the prince and make sure he was okay was not something one should feel for their employer, let alone their prince and their friend, but, well, he had taken one look at the prince when the latter had been consoling a woman looking after her ailing son and fallen head over heels. Yes, that prat could be such a cabbage head, but he could also be caring, and brave, and kind. And handsome, that little voice in the back of his head spoke up, but he banished it with a quick not the time.

So yes, he did want to check on Arthur. But at the same time, what Arthur had said has hurt. Merlin worked hard because Arthur expected nothing less, and it still wasn't enough.

But Arthur was a prince, and he was Uther's son, so it was almost to be expected. Almost, because even though it was explainable did not mean that it hurt any less.

He decided against reentering the paper in search of a prince who clearly didn't want him there, and returned home. At Gaius's raised eyebrow, he just said Gwen hadn't needed any help, and walked into his room. And no, he definitely hadn't closed the door more forcefully than normal.

He used his free time to read through the book on magic Gaius had given him. Sitting under his thin blanked with aagically conjured light to see by, he could almost forget about Arthur and his behavior. Almost.

Merlin blinked awake blearily, light glaring in through the window. He brushed a fallen lock of hair out of his face, then sat up. As he did so, he both heard and felt paper rustle, and looked down. He had apparently been using the magic book as a pillow, and there were a few drool stains on one of the pages. He quickly magicked away the stains and returned the book it it's hiding place, then turned to his clothing to get ready for the day. Now, to wear the red or blue neckerchief. . ?

He made it almost to the palace steps before he remembered. Arthur. He had been in such a foul mood the other day, and with a prince with anger management issues and a tendency to bottle things up, Merlin did not know what to expect.

When he had gathered up the courage to walk to Arthur's room, he was greeted with the sight of the blonde glaring at him, picking at the good in front of him.

"You're late," were the first words out of the prince's mouth. "I had to get woken up and delivered breakfast by George." His distaste was clear, and on another day, Merlin might have laughed. Not that day, though, when he was already feeling the sting from the careless words.

"Oh, poor you." It was almost hilarious how obvious the double take Arthur was trying to hide was, as he had clearly been expecting sympathy, but Merlin was not in the mood. "You should be happy, you had a servant who didn't talk back."

"Well, Merlin, you should be happy. I have a long list of chores headed your way, just for being late." Merlin sighed. Why him? Why did he have to bother with the unreasonable man who happened to be both his employer and the prince of Camelot?

"Yaaaaayyy. . ."

"That's the spirit! Now, you'd better get started or you won't finish by tonight, and we can't have that." By Arthur's tone, Merlin could tell he was implying something important, and though he really didn't want to, he gave into the blonde's ploy to get him to ask.

"What do you mean by that? What's happening tonight?"

"Oh, did no one tell you?" God, the nerve of this man. "Father's having a feast in honor of the new alliance. And yes, before you ask, you do have to be there." Damn, how had he known that was what Merlin was going to ask before the latter even opened his mouth? "Because, idiot, you ask that every time. Of course I knew." Okay, now Merlin was slightly freaked out.

"Did I say that out loud, or did you somehow acquire mind reading skills?"

"I could read it on your dumb, expressive face. You didn't need to say it, and I don't need to read your mind to know what you were going to say." Arthur scoffed at Merlin's confused face and ordered him to get to work before he wasted the day trying to understand a simple sentence.

All day, Merlin simultaneously carried out his chores, fuming at Arthur and his pompousness, and ran their earlier conversation through his head, trying to make sense of it. And make sense he did. It was no secret that they two were developing a strong bond, but he hadn't realized how strong it was, if the prince was able to deduce what Merlin was going to say before he said it.

But of course their 'strong bond' wasn't enough to keep them from bickering like a dysfunctional couple. Resigned to his foul mood, and with no intent to forgive the prince any time soon, he got to work on the long list of chores Arthur had handed him.

By the end of the day, Merlin had somehow managed to get everything in Arthur's ridiculously long list done. Well, not somehow, he may have used a bit-just a bit!-of magic to help. The list was otherwise way too long for him to finish by midnight, much less in time for the feast. The only good part about any of it was that he got the satisfaction of seeing Arthur's shocked face when he realized Merlin had actually been able to complete the list. Well, he had also been given a bit of the food for the feast to taste test (impeccable as always), which had been nice.

His last task was to help the prince prepare for the feast. Bathing him, dressing him, and just making him look like the prince he was. If Merlin was honest, there were a few things he liked about feasts.

For one, there was the fact that he was allowed to eat some of the leftover food, which was even better than the food the kitchen normally prepared. There was also the fact that Arthur looked even more presentable than he usually did, and while Merlin thought the prince looked handsome in anything, it was nice to see him get dressed up a bit. And the feast provided something to make the evening a bit more entertaining, which was something, at least.

By the time he was done getting Arthur ready, it was time for the feast. Merlin looked over the prince one more time to see if he was ready, and he was. But Merlin also noticed that Arthur seemed a bit more nervous than he usually did for a feast. Was it that this was celebrating an alliance and he didn't want to do anything to put that in danger?

Merlin wanted to ask, he wanted to make sure his friend was okay, but before he could, Arthur spoke.

"Well, Merlin, are you ready?"

"Wh-what? Why are you asking me if I'm ready? You're the one who needs to be ready, not me."

"Well, yes, that is true. But you know if I'm ready or not, and you're not ready until I am. I'll ask you again. Are you ready?"

"Yes, sire." For once, Merlin's voice was completely free of any sarcasm or mocking. He sensed that Arthur was nervous and he didn't want to make things worse.

"Alright then. Lets go."

The feast was a typical feast, all things considered. There was good food and wine, a few performers, and speeches from Uther and the allied kingdom. Arthur did not give a speech that night, which Merlin did not find particularly odd, as not every feast required a speech from the prince.

Though Merlin did notice that Arthur was more tense than normal, he figured it was just the blonde worrying about how the guests would find the feast. What he did not notice, however, was the way Arthur's eyes kept darting to his father, and the way Uther was nearly glaring at his son.

There was one slight hiccup during the whole thing, which was, in Merlin's opinion, not bad at all. One of the servants, a tall skinny boy with brown hair, spilled wine on Uther. In the boy's defense, it was not much, and Utter had bumped into him slightly, but that did nothing to quiet the king's rage.

But before Uther could say or do anything, Arthur leaned over and whispered something to his father. This calmed the older man down only slightly, and now his rage seemed directed at Arthur. Nothing happened however, except that Arthur apparently dismissed the servant, as the boy scurried away as quickly as he could.

If Merlin had paid a tiny bit more attention to the king and his son, he would have noticed how Uther's anger remained, and how Arthur was clearly masking his fear.

But he didn't, so he paid no notice as, when they were walking back after the feast, Arthur was silent. Merlin figured that he was simply tired, as a feast would tire anyone out, especially someone who was as involved as Arthur.

When they got back to the prince's chambers, Arthur dismissed Merlin as soon as the latter had finished getting Arthur ready for bed. Merlin once again figured he was simply tired, although he did begin to suspect something was up with the prince.

Hey, he wasn't stupid, not by a longshot, but he hadn't really seen anything that would make him worry. His whole job was to protect the prince, whether Arthur knew it or not. He would never purposefully do anything to put his friend in danger, and not just because it was his job.

That night however, he did remember Uther's angry glare at his son, and the way Arthur curled in on himself infinitesimally. Unfortunately, he fell asleep before he could think any more about it, and by the time he woke up in the morning, he had almost completely forgotten it.

The beginning of the morning the next day was pretty predictable. He woke up, got dressed, ate a hurried breakfast, and left to go wake up the prince.

When he got to the prince's room, however, breakfast in hand, he discovered that Arthur was already awake and dressed. Merlin set the food down on the table and looked the prince over.

"Wow, sire, you managed to put on your shirt correctly, nice job. However the back of your shirt is not quite tucked in. Here, let me get it." But when he reached over to help fix the shirt, Arthur batted his hand away.

"It's fine. I can do it myself. Thank you for telling me." This was very odd. When had the prince ever woken up and gotten dressed before Merlin arrived in the past?

Actually, he could remember a few times, and it was always odd. He was not usually able to get everything on right, either. Also, why had he not let Merlin help him? That was certainly unusual.

The rest of the day was relatively normal. They went on a hunt with the knights, as Uther had ordered Arthur to capture an assassin who had killed a few villagers overnight, for an unknown reason. It was nice to get back into the woods, and Arthur seemed happier because of it, joking around with Merlin and the knights in a way he hadn't in the last couple days.

The hunt, despite Arthur's best efforts, was unsuccessful, and they did not manage to capture the assassin. The hooded man escaped, after a fight that ended with Elyan slightly injured, and the entire party disheartened.

After a short visit with Gaius, Elyan was fine, and Arthur and Merlin headed back to the palace. Arthur was acting odd, not talking much, and when he did, he was very short with Merlin. Merlin opted for silence instead while he took Arthur's chainmail off.

"I have a meeting with my father to discuss my failure in apprehending the assassin. You are free to leave. Enjoy your afternoon." It was phrased so oddly. To discuss my failure. Was that really all Uther wanted to talk about? Arthur had accomplished a great many things, and yet Uther seemed only interested in the few failures. He really did expect his son to be perfect.

Arthur left, and though he had been dismissed, he did not have anything he needed to do, so he decided to stay and tidy up the room a bit. While he was in the middle of cleaning the fireplace, his magic suddenly became alert. The hairs on the back of his neck rose, and he became convinced something was wrong.

He didn't do anything about it, as he didn't even know what was wrong. He waited it out, and it dissipated slightly. There were a few more times during his cleaning that he felt it rise up, and then it began to rise steadily until the door creaked open.

Merlin looked up, and his heart seized in his chest. Arthur walked in, tears dripping down his face, and bruises on his face.

"Oh, Arthur, what happened?”

"Merlin?!? Why are you still here? I dismissed you." Though he sounded angry, the tears hitting the floor said otherwise, and his face did not show any anger.

"I, uh, wanted to do some cleaning. Seriously, what happened?"

"Nothing, Merlin, please just leave." It must have been serious if the prince was using please.

"No, Arthur." Merlin stood steadfastly in front of the crying prince. "You're my friend, and you're hurting. I want to help. What happened?"

"Nothing. My father just-he just got angry. That's it."

"Arthur. That is not it. You are crying. Please tell me what's wrong. It hurts to see you hurting."

"Fine!" More tears dripped down his face, and he looked up angrily. "He was angry that the hunt failed, and he yelled at me. When I told him I'd done the best I could, he just said that. . ." The prince trailed off, clearly very pained.

"Arthur. What did he say?" It was becoming hard for Merlin to just stand there and not go off to kill, or at least maim, Uther.

"He told me," Arthur sobbed harder, "he told me that Ygraine died for me, and I was wasting her death by just existing." The blonde broke down, sobbing loudly, not caring who heard him, and Merlin's heart broke. How could anyone say that to someone, let alone their own son?

"No, no. Arthur, you are a wonderful person, and your mother would be so proud of you for everything you've done. Uther doesn't deserve you, he never has, okay?"

"No, I'm useless! I can't do anything right! The feast, the hunt, and now I can't even take a lecture. Just leave, I'm not worth it."

"Never say that. Never. I love you because you are kind, because you always strive to do the right thing, even when it is harder. You saved that boy from getting flogged. You tried to catch the assassin, and the only reason you didn't is because you were protecting your friends. Uther is wrong. You are not useless. I love having you in my life, I'm grateful for it every day, and I know Gwen, Morgana, and the knights are too. You're amazing, Arthur."

That was the first time Merlin had gotten to voice his thoughts on Arthur in a long time, and it felt nice, even though it was brought on by Uther being an asshole.

"Do you mean that?" Merlin's heart broke impossibly further by Arthur's unsure tone.

"Of course I do! We're all incredibly lucky to have you around." Arthur just cried harder, stilling when Merlin wrapped his arms around the prince, sensing the blonde might need a hug.

When the prince sank into it, he realized that Arthur likely didn't get many, if any, hugs.

"Are you injured?" The prince was silent, and Merlin's heart rate skyrocketed.

"What?!?"

"He just slapped me a few times, and I have a few bruises. It's not that bad." This prince. Now Merlin was beyond pissed. He had assumed Arthur's face was red from crying, but now there was a handprint visible. That was why Arthur had dressed himself! He hadn't wanted Merlin to see the bruises.

"Are you alright?"

"I will be," was the quiet response.

"Take all the time you need. I need to go hunt down a king"

"Merlin, please don't. He is still my father."

"Fine. For you." They were silent for a few moments while Arthur composed himself and Merlin thought up ways to creatively harm Uther, not that he would actually carry them out. After a few minutes, Arthur's soft voice broke through his thoughts.

"You. . . love me?"

"I-What?" He thought back over what he had said, and blushed hard. Damn it, he had confessed to Arthur!

"I'm so sorry! I mean yes, I do, but I didn't mean to tell you. You can fire me, you'll never have to see me again, I'll-" He was speaking really quickly now, trying to apologize and reassure the prince.

"Merlin! Listen to me! I, uh, love you too. So please, don't leave. Ever." No way. No. Way.

"You-you love me too?"

"Of course I do. You're Merlin, how could I not?"

"What does that mean?"

"That it was inevitable that I'd fall for you, you clumsy oaf." Of course Arthur would compliment someone and then insult them, all in a declaration of life. Oh my god, he loves me!

"Hey! Thanks?"

"Now get over here." What? Why? Then, his silent questions were answered as Arthur kissed him. Their lips moved together as though they were made for this, and Merlin wondered if they had been. Two sides of the same coin. How had he not realized how romantic that sounded?

When they broke away, breathing hard, Merlin pulled Arthur in for another hug, sensing how touch-starved he was. The prince melted impossibly more into Merlin than before.

"You don't need him. You have me, you have Morgana, you have Gwen, and you have the knights. You have people who love and care about you. You don't need him."

"I. . . don't need him. Okay. I don't need him!" Arthur sounded as though he had been freed from prison, and in a way, he had. As Arthur stood up and got ready for bed, tired from crying and professing love, Merlin realized that as long as they had each other, and their friends, they would be okay.

[fictionkinfessions]

SUP ARTHUR PENDRAGON IS BACK

I'm so cool with my death. Literally in the fiset season i was so clear. I'm meant to die for my kingdom, is my destiny. Kilgarrah was wrong I knew it and i was fully into it because I was a fathers boy.

My own fault Merlin speaks against Aggrivane and I threaten his life. "why did he never tell arthur anything?" cuz i would have threatened to kill him. You gotta make me think it's my idea.

Which I did. I thought I came up with dying. I wasnt even scared until Merlin made me see that I can make kingdomwide reforms

I think i am the reason I died. I hesitated. I knew I was to die and I hesitated because I exist for the good of everyone. Except Merlin apparently.

Literally fuck me apparently I sensed Merlin was the other side of the coin, hijacked the coin, then made him suffer for being close because I am such a great king.

I think im the only Arthur P on here so if anyone wants any updates on me I fused with a bunch of other fictives and now I think i count as a kin. I kinshift alot but it's cool. I'm surrounded by my system and our friends. I am loved.

Ik it sounds like I hate myself but I don't I hate the actions the arrogant prince and teh idiot king made. I'm still Arthur Pendragon but I've no responsibility of running a kingdom. I'm so free it makes me giddy.

I'm going to improve Albion and it wont even kill me. I'll fight battles and wage wars for my disorder and I'll forge each footstep alone. I'll tread this path bearing only the load of my own expectatin and the weapon of my own expertise.

Also duelsource artthur pendragon, in the legand Merlin locked the lady of the lake in a cave and it's so funny to me because bbc Merlin could never do that. I love him dearly. Absolute clotpole please go, live your life. You're allowed to get over me.

Also Mordrid, that was a gross overreaction and you know it. If I ever see you apologise. I've been a teen with a sword and did I kill the king? No. Merlin did. (/ligh hearted, i dont mind you killed my dad merlin, it was an accident and morgana's fault)

Morgana is good we only fought bc i wouldnt legalise magic on threat of violence despite the fact we kinda never made clear we're chill with magic users and she kinda had her whole life taken from her the day she found out she had magic because uther would never legalise it ad then i just dont solve that problem. It was sorta my job. You go my dearest sister. Keep doing whatever ur doing and dont read the legand.

I only relate to crazy merlin & me bits of the legand it's so bad

x

[waltwhitmansbeard]

my fair lady: chapter eighteen

previous chapters! inspired (yes, still!) by @romeoandjulietyouwish's medieval au

Having had no easy time falling asleep, Keyleth doesn't wake until late in the day, when the sun is close to its apex in the sky. When she does wake, it is to the distant sounds of activity from somewhere outside her chambers. She sits up, rubbing at her eyes. "What is the commotion?"

She's startled to see Vax, dressed and armored with dagger in hand, just beside the door. He looks at her and places one finger over his lips. He then gently creaks the door open, where they're greeted by the suddenly audible sounds of a very familiar voice.

"Stop squirming, you churlish clotpole. You'll tell the sovereign what you know."

Keyleth sighs in relief as Vax stows his dagger with a roll of his eyes. Master Gilmore. She slides out of bed quickly and wraps herself in her dressing gown. She hurries past Vax into the hall, where she darts as fast as she dares to her father's chambers. With Vax hot on her heels, she comes into view of the bustle just as Master Gilmore, elaborately dressed and looking both annoyed and quite pleased with himself, shoves a scrawny, tow-headed boy a few years Keyleth's junior past her father's guards into the sovereign's rooms. "Master Gilmore!"

The man in question looks up and immediately grins his signature self-satisfied smirk. "Well there she is! Come quickly, we have a war to end!" He starts to turn into the room, but then stops to say sultrily, "And a very good day to you, Vax'ildan."

Vax, now standing just beside Keyleth, laughs despite himself. "Good day, Master Gilmore."

"Please, don't call me master here, we're in polite company." Then he's gone, and Keyleth, honestly grateful for Gilmore's particular brand of levity, follows him in, where several of her father's advisors, including Percy and Pike, who did not return to Zephrah with the others, have joined the sovereign to speak with whomever Gilmore has just unceremoniously tossed before them.

The young man is huddled on the ground, eyes darting between everyone surrounding him nervously. He's disheveled, but when her father barks at him, "Stand up, boy," he does so, straightening his clothes best he can.

"Master Gilmore, who is this?" her father asks.

Gilmore dips low into a bow. "Your Majesty, this is Tadhg, and who Tadhg is matters far less than who he works for." The sovereign frowns in confusion. "You are familiar with Gaben Finefirn, I presume?"

"Of course. A conjurer who did excellent work for us during the war. We'd never have taken as much of the Dreemoth Ravine as we did without his assistance."

"And charged you a pretty penny for it, did he not?"

One of the gathered advisors snorts. "I'd say so."

Gilmore, always a fan of a good presentation, throws out his hands dramatically. "Well, as it would turn out, our friend Gaben was dipping into both nations' coffers, as it were. Seems a conjurer-for-hire will conjure for, well, whomever hires. And during the course of this war, he turned himself from a novice battle mage into a crucial chess piece for both sides of the conflict, and in the process amassed a fortune the likes of which a once-pauper could only imagine."

The sovereign straightens, his face drawn. "Is that so?"

Gilmore floats over to where Keyleth stands by the entrance and wraps an arm around her shoulders. "Now before we proceed, I do need to give credit where credit is due. All we are about to learn here today was only uncovered due to the princess's ingenuity and quick-thinking."

Keyleth's face burns hot. "No—I didn't—"

"Without her instruction, I never would have thought to dig into Mister Finefirn, though—" He turns to speak directly to Keyleth. "—once I received your letter, dear, I knew exactly where to start looking. A brilliant young thing, you are."

Keyleth would like nothing more than for a hole to open up directly beneath her feet. All of her father's advisors are looking at her now with curious expressions, and Percy is grinning from ear to ear. Before she can collect her thoughts enough to say anything, Gilmore is gone again, striding forward to clap a strong, intimidating hand onto the shoulder of Tadhg, who flinches. "You see, Your Majesty, your daughter requested I begin investigating those mercenary-types we hired on during the war to aid us in our cause, as she had a sneaking suspicion that whoever brutally slaughtered those innocent revelers at the peace celebration did so with the intention of continuing to profit off of our hostilities with Draconia.

"But I didn't need to investigate too hard, because I had heard a rumor, a scrap of gossip, really, that Gaben's new palatial estate in Emon was really something to behold. Which I did find curious when I first heard it, because as much as we paid him for his efforts, could he really afford such a place with just what he's earned in two years of war? Perhaps—if he was earning from both sides."

Gilmore squeezes Tadhg's shoulder tightly. "Go on then, boy. Why don't you fill the sovereign in on your master's scheme?"

Shaking, Tadhg gives a tiny, apprehensive bow of his head, before squeaking out, "M-my lord, I—Master Finefirn is my employer, and h-he asked me to make payments to the commander of a mercenary group out of Emon. I delivered the f-funds and the instructions, but I swear to you, the p-plan was not my own!"

The look on her father's face is ominously dark, but he says nothing. Gilmore squeezes the shoulder again. "Explain the plan, boy."

The tremble of Tadhg's limbs is violent now. "I-I heard my master explain that he needed the war to continue, th-that he could not keep up his lifestyle during a time of p-p-peace. If the peace treaty were not signed, he could continue to sup-support both the Ashari and D-Draconian war efforts."

"Why were our people targeted?" her father booms, his voice a thunderclap in the night. "Nearly three times as many Ashari died as Draconians!"

Tadhg shrinks down to almost half his size. "Y-Your Majesty, my m-master believed that if the death were equal on all sides, the attack would seem r-r-random. The scales needed to be unbalanced, and he b-believed that the Ashari Nation would be the more difficult nation to c-convince to go back to war."

Keyleth's heart sinks to the floor. All that death, the screaming and the blood, and all for one man in a foreign land to make more money. She wants to vomit, but more than that, she wants to be holding Vax's hand. She wants his voice in her ear, saying the exact thing she needs to hear to keep her upright.

"Why attempt to kidnap the princess?" Percy asks, stepping forward. "What would taking her have accomplished?"

Tadhg gives a small shrug. "I b-believe he thought that the final n-nail in the coffin of peace. If the heir to the Ashari throne were taken, the s-s-sovereign would have to go to war."

"Where is your master now?" her father asks, his voice dangerously calm.

"I do not know, Your Majesty. When Master Gilmore arrived in Emon, he fled through arcane means. He left me b-behind."

There is a long, tense silence in the room as her father regards Tadhg with an inscrutable expression. Finally, he looks to Pike and says, "Take this boy and question him further. Employ your method of demanding the truth. If there is any more to be learned, we shall learn it as quickly as possible. Then the Draconians shall be informed of how we were played."

Pike bows, and then gestures for Grog to help her escort Tadhg, who now resembles a pile of wet towels, from the room. The boy lets out a terrified squeak when he's lifted by the scruff and carried out in one of the goliath's massive hands. When they are gone, the sovereign says quietly, "Daughter, please come here."

Now very much wishing she had taken the time to properly dress before rushing here, Keyleth obeys, taking a few wobbly steps toward her father, keeping her dressing gown tightly closed. She dips her head in a bow. "Father, I—"

A finger lifts her chin up, and she is staring into his face. "You remind me so much of your mother."

The tears come so suddenly that Keyleth imagines them magically conjured. "I—"

"She, too, loved nothing more than undercutting my authority at every turn, and she shared your frustrating habit of being right to do so every time."

Keyleth quickly brushes the tears away with a small laugh. "I promise, Father, I did not intend to...undermine you. I merely thought..."

"You did what any good sovereign would do: you acted. That action very likely staved off a resumption of hostilities in a long and costly war. The Ashari Nation and Draconia both owe you our gratitude."

All around him, his advisors give her a polite bow, and despite her flustered embarrassment, she finds herself standing a bit taller. "Father, I would never have come to the conclusion I did without the wise counsel of both Lord Percival and Vax'ildan. They have been great aids to me, both in these past few days and well before. Lady Pike as well, she has also given me some...much needed advice. I am lucky to be surrounded by such sage individuals, whom I trust with both my life and my nation's future."

"Good. Every sovereign needs those people. You cannot lead your nation without them." He leans down and presses a kiss to her forehead. "I am so proud of you, Keyleth of the Ashari Nation."

.

Things move quickly from there. Pike finishes her secondary interrogation of Tadhg, who reveals a few more specifics of Gaben Finefirn's plot but nothing quite as dramatic as Gilmore's original reveal. The Draconians are brought in to hear the tale as well, and a meeting is set for the following morning between Keyleth's father and King Kruvanis to discuss finally signing the peace accords and ending the war once and for all.

When news of this meeting reaches Keyleth, she tells Vax to get word to Prince Tiberius as quickly as possible that now is the time to strike. He departs at once, leaving Keyleth under Derrig's watch. When he does, Keyleth then returns to her father's chambers to request an audience with him alone. He acquiesces, sending his advisors elsewhere and his guards outside. Then, for a rare moment, Keyleth is truly alone with her father.

"What do you wish to discuss, daughter?" He stands at his writing desk, a copy of the original peace treaty in his hands, having just been reviewing it with his advisors.

"That, actually," she says, gesturing toward the parchment he holds. "The peace treaty."

"Ah." He places it on the desk, which he leans back against. "We have not spoken of this since your arrival here in Syngorn."

"Well, things got a little busy," she jokes. Then she sighs. "Do you remember just earlier today, when you claimed in front of everyone to love how much I undermine you?"

His eyes narrow. "I don't recall claiming that I loved it, no."

"Well, I hope you can learn to." She pulls from her pocket a thick scroll, which Percy had delivered to her just an hour before. "I would like you to read this over, please."

Curious, her father walks over, taking the scroll from her. He unravels it and begins to read. After a minute of agonizing silence, his eyes widening the entire time, he sighs, "Oh Keyleth, what have you done?"

"This treaty was negotiated between myself and Prince Tiberius of Draconia," she replies, tone defensive and chin high. "We worked together to rewrite the terms of the peace—"

"When did you meet with the prince?" he exclaims loudly, staring at her in shock and horror.

"—to better suit both of our nations' interests," she presses on. "This deal is far better than the one in which you sell me off like a prize milking cow and not the crown princess of a nation."

"Keyleth!"

"Our imports and exports have been more evenly balanced, Draconia receives the diplomatic support they've been lacking for generations, and both nations will be better positioned to become serious players on the global stage. This—" She points to the scroll in his hands. "—is the Ashari Nation I wish to lead someday."

"Keyleth, a legion of trained diplomats, each of whom has more life experience than you and the Draconian prince combined, carefully worked out the details of this accord over weeks of arbitration. You believed you could do better in one conversation with some third son who has never listened to someone else speak once in his life?"

Gritting her teeth, Keyleth argues, "I did do better, Father. Will you please just read it?"

She can tell he doesn't even want to entertain the notion, but he has little reason to argue with merely reading the thing. He throws himself into the desk chair with a huff and begins to read. Too nervous to watch him, Keyleth goes over to a window and looks outside at the Syngornian cityscape. It really is a beautiful place, with magnificent, magical architecture the likes of which she never could have imagined. Despite the terror and heartbreak she's faced in these halls, she can't help loving a city so clearly devoted to beauty and wonder.

It takes her father nearly half an hour to go over the treaty. As he reads, he makes a few thoughtful noises, but Keyleth can't decipher if they're pleased or annoyed. When he's finished, he carefully rolls up the scrolls, tips his head back against the chair, and closes his eyes. Keyleth's knee bounces anxiously. She knows better than to interrupt his thoughts, but she is desperate to know if he approves.

Finally, after what to Keyleth feels like days, her father lifts his head. "Well I'll be damned."

Keyleth folds in on herself with a sigh. "Truly?"

"You did this? Just you and Prince Tiberius?" She nods. "Perhaps the adage about too many cooks in the kitchen is true, after all. This is exquisite, Keyleth. There are terms in here I wouldn't even think to ask for."

"I do listen, you know. I know what our people need."

"Come here." Keyleth walks over to her father, who takes her hand and squeezes it. "I obviously cannot promise that this will earn King Kruvanis's approval, and I do want to discuss it with my advisors, but it has earned mine, at the very least for the clear care and effort you put into it." He tips his head to the side. "When did you get this done, anyway?"

Keyleth bends down to kiss the top of her father's head. "Let's not worry about that just now."

"Keyleth..."

"Talk to your advisors, please. Prince Tiberius should be giving this treaty to his father now. Hopefully tomorrow, we will finally no longer be at war."

When Keyleth leaves her father's chambers, Vax is waiting outside with the other guards. She meets his eyes, and he nods once to confirm the delivery of her message. He follows her back to her chambers, where, once they are inside, he asks hesitantly, "How did he take it?"

"Wonderfully," Keyleth gushes. "I mean, he wasn't thrilled it happened behind his back, but he supports our revised treaty."

"That's incredible, Keyleth." He closes his eyes. "I mean, Your Highness."

"Thank you, Vax'ildan." She twists her hands nervously in front of her. "I'm sorry that things became so...hectic today. I know you had plans to speak with my father."

He gives a small smile. "I believe what we learned today is worth the delay."

They stand in her rooms, the distance between them aching and awkward, for a long beat, until Keyleth can't take it anymore. She excuses herself to her desk, where she sits and pretends to have anything of importance to write, when in reality, all she needs is to not be looking at him. She begins to scribble out a fake letter, the scratch of the nib against the parchment comforting as she tries to focus on the bright future ahead for her and her nation, and not the past her people need her to leave behind.

[themerlinlibrary]

Favourites Friday (Mar 2023) – Memories

TML Favourites Friday round-up! March 2023 round 3

What is Favourites Friday? – The Basics

a different theme is announced on Friday each week; FF recs must match the theme of the week

only one FF rec per person per week/theme

FF recs must be unique within that week/theme; no double-posting the same fic for one theme!

no self-recs during regular rounds

only self-recs during self-rec rounds (last Friday of each month)

Theme for week 3: Memories!

The Lost by Ultrageek T, 52k, Gen Canon era

For the stars shall speak of us by lunapark, art by chrissie E, 40k, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon Reincarnation AU, 1920's era

Yours is a Shallow Voice by pipelliot G, 8k, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon Canon AU,

You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free by vampiric_mcd G, 1k, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon Reincarnations AU

Remember When We Never Faded by giselleslash E, 37k, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon Pre-canon

Flickering Embers by prattery T, 20k, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon Canon Divergence

Forgotten by carinims01 T, 4k, Gen Canon era

Lament for the Lost by Clea2011 M, 21k, Merlin/Arthur Modern AU, Reincarnation AU

I Call Your Name by DeansBrokenHeart E, 31k, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon Modern with Magic

Missing by JessicaMDawn T, 23k, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon Canon era

PTA by rotrude E, 22k, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon Modern Setting (?)

ask me why (my heart's inside my throat) by Scarlet_Ribbons T, 7k, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon Canon era

The Memory of Stone by A_Farnese T, 7k, Gen Canon era

Out of Sight, Out of Mind by BabyStepsAreStillSteps G, 20k, Gen Canon era

Untouched Beds by Aldryne21 T, 3k, Gen Canon era

Series: Penumbra by A_Farnese T, 516k, Gwen/Arthur Pendragon Canon era

In Dreams by mornmeril M, 9k, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon Modern Era, Reincarnation AU

Cinderella Wasn't a Clotpole by GeekLover M, 9k, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon Modern setting

Surprise Attack by litinthyheart T, 4k, Gen Modern era

The Gate of Memory by Destina T, 14k, Merlin/Arthur Pendragon Canon divergence, Modern setting

A masterlist of all round-ups can be found here. Special thanks to @griffonskies for helping out with this round-up!

If you want to make sure you never miss a FF rec, or would like to participate and share your own favourites; join us on the Discord TheMerlinLibrary! Happy reading!

About the FF round-up lists:

Recs are listed in the order they were posted on the Discord; the order does not imply any sort of ranking.

The pairing given in this list is the main pairing of each respective fic – please read the tags for any possible minor or side-pairings, as well as any potential warnings or triggers.

Pairings and Eras are given as tagged in each respective fic. (?) signifies that the tags were unclear and I do not know enough about the fic to fill the gaps.

Round-ups are compiled on the weekend of the week after the respective theme of the post (when the new theme has already been anounced), to avoid omitting potentially belated FF recs.

Since I am running FF alone, it is not always possible for me to have the round-up list up immediately – please be patient.

The weekly round-up is not a guarantee! Again, I'm running this alone, so it can only be posted for weeks when I have enough time on my hands to compile a list. If you'd like to help out, feel free to contact me on Tumblr ( @zaharya ) or Discord.

[fandomficsnstuff]

Witches and Wizards - 15

(Warnings: some angst, a little more angst, some death (not Ophelia) and some tiny fluff at the end<3)

Note: I once read parts of a fic where the reader has magic and goes back in time, meeting Merlin. I sadly can’t find it anymore. Also Fred didn’t die in this.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ophelia was silent as she walked alongside Merlin, her eyes scanning the cave walls, as though expecting something to jump out from beneath the stone. “We’re safe here” he whispered with a smirk, Ophelia tilting her head up to look at him, giving him a smirk in return “right, I forgot, you grew up in these caves” she teased, Merlin nodding proudly “I did” he announced with pride, Ophelia chuckling lightly “caveman” she muttered, smirking up at Merlin who scoffed with a grin “don’t start” he whispered, Ophelia unable to not grin as she glanced at him out of the corner of her eyes “why? Are you going to drag me off by my hair to some dark, hidden spot only you know of so no one could hear us?” she teased Merlin, the young man was about to open his mouth when she turned to fully look at him “please do” she whispered teasingly before falling back in line with Gwen, smirking at Merlin before giving Gwen a warm smile, walking with her until the path began to narrow, leaving her to walk in front of Gwen, in between Merlin and her. Ophelia halted as she heard a noise echo in the large cave, her heart beginning to race and she turned to look at Merlin who in return looked at her as well, both of them coming to the same silent conclusion. ��We’re not alone’.

“I thought you said we’d lost them…”

“I thought I had…”

“It won’t take long for them to catch us…” Tristan whispered, Ophelia barely able to speak up before Merlin walked past her “I’ll go back” he determined, Ophelia reaching for him but he was out of her reach, a frown on her brows as Arthur caught his arm instead “what are you going to do?”

“Create a diversion.”

“It’s too risky, Merlin” Ophelia hissed, Merlin turning to look at her after handing the torch to Arthur. Merlin gently cupped her cheeks in his hands “I know these tunnels, Agravaine doesn’t. Keep goin-”

“I’ll stay back with you” Ophelia determined, Merlin about to speak up when she leaned up and kissed him briefly, giving him a smile before turning to Arthur “keep going, we’ll catch up” she spoke softly, Arthur looking between the two before reluctantly nodding “just-... don’t do anything stupid, Merlin” Arthur muttered, Merlin and Ophelia both looking at Arthur, though Merlin had quite the frown on his face as he did “me?? What about her?”

“Ophelia won’t do anything stupid-”

“Well, how would you know??”

“Because unlike you, she’s not a clotpole.”

“That’s my word!”

“Merlin” Ophelia gently pushed him away from the others, smirking at Arthur as she stayed behind with Merlin. “I’ll lead them to a dead end, if you take that path right there and wait, you can come up behind them” Merlin whispered, Ophelia nodding, giving his hand a squeeze before getting out her wand and hurrying to the narrow passageway as Merlin went off to find the soldiers and Agravaine. Ophelia waited quietly as she heard footsteps approaching, all of them running, her chest barely scraping the cave wall in front of her and when the footsteps stopped, after torches ran past her, she silently got out, standing behind the small group of people, wand raised. “Merlin?” If only she could see the look on Agravaine’s face when he saw Merlin. “Be careful” Agravaine looked confused at Merlin’s warning, except when he saw white-blonde hair move towards him from behind, a frown on his brows as he looked at Ophelia “I always am, Merlin” she spoke softly, turning her gaze to Agravaine, her soft look gone, replaced by a wall of ice as she glared at him “Ophelia. Where’s Arthur?”

“Who?”

“Don’t play stupid-”

“No, you’re right… you’re right…” Ophelia stated with a sad frown, sighing heavily as she nodded to herself, looking down before looking back up at a smug Agravaine “stupid is your thing, you’re right, you don’t have anything else so I’ll let you have that” she stated with a growing smirk, Agravaine’s smug look fading into one of anger and annoyance “tell me where Arthur is. Now. Or I’ll have to kill you both” Agravaine threatened casually, Ophelia glancing at Merlin before raising her wand at Agravaine, slightly enjoying his confused look. “I don’t think so” Merlin stated softly, glancing at Ophelia who gave him a nod, her free hand interlocking with his, still locked with his as she turned to look at Agravaine who seemed almost amused. “So, you’ll die together, then” he barely got the words out before a bolt of energy crashed against them, giving Merlin the opportunity to make them fly back unhindered, his eyes glowing and a brief nod of his head was all it took, Ophelia turning to look at him before looking at Agravaine who was already waking up. Her hand dropped from his as they both watched him stumble up, pointing at them “you both have magic!”

“We were born with it” Merlin admitted, turning to look at Ophelia as she kept her eyes on Agravaine, his own soon following “so it’s you… you’re Emrys and Agatha…” Agravaine put together as he pointed at Merlin and Ophelia, and now it was Ophelia’s turn to look at him, studying his face closely before looking back at Agravaine as he took two small steps towards the both of them, Ophelia taking a small one forward as a silent warning. “That is what the druids call me…” Merlin admitted, turning to look at Ophelia who frowned at Agravaine, taking a small step closer “how do you know that name? Agatha?”

“Morgana had visions about you, both of you… she’s heard whispers of your name, how you were destined to help Emrys, that you were destined to become more powerful than her, than any priestess or witch before you…” Agravaine added with narrowed eyes, Ophelia turning to look at Merlin with slight shock. She knew that Merlin had a great fate and destiny, it was obvious, but her? Somehow she apparently had a fate that treaded his path as well… maybe it was what was meant to happen all along… something inevitable. Though she had never heard of anyone named Agatha with Merlin from any frog cards or Magical History, but then again Professor Binks really only ever talked about goblin rebellions. “And you’ve both been at court, all this time, eh?” Agravaine asked, oddly enough with a smile, Ophelia’s grip tightening around her wand as Agravaine kept taking steps closer to them, Ophelia backing up to be at Merlin’s side once more “at Arthur’s side... how you’ve managed to deceive him… I am impressed by both of you” Agravaine added, chuckling afterwards. “Perhaps we’re more alike than you think…” he pondered with that same grin, Ophelia gritting her teeth and scoffing “we’re nothing like you. Merlin least of all” she hissed, about to take another step forward when Merlin gently grabbed her wrist, holding her back and pulling her back at his side, both of them still watching Agravaine with suspicion. Agravaine reached out his hand to Merlin, Merlin in turn raising his own as Ophelia raised her wand, Agravaine raising his hand in surrender.

In the blink of an eye, a dagger cut across Ophelia’s shoulder, cutting through the fabric, only tearing a shallow cut across her skin because Merlin sent him flying backwards. As Agravaine flew back and hit his head, he laid still, Merlin instantly turning to Ophelia, cupping her arm in his hand as he inspected the wound, only for Ophelia to smile sweetly at him and cup his cheek in her hand, making him look at her face instead. “I’m fine. Thank you” she whispered, gently kissing him before looking past him at a dead Agravaine, sighing softly, her hands resting on his chest as Merlin looked back as well. “He was wrong, you know… you’re nothing alike… you’re nothing like him or Morgana… Morgana or Agravaine wouldn’t think twice about anything to save themselves, but you… you feel your hands sticky with blood when they’re cleaner than ever” Ophelia whispered softly and Merlin looked back at her, making her smile up at him. “They’re clean, Merlin… do you understand?” she asked, Merlin nodding weakly, making her smile even more at him “let’s find the others…” she muttered, putting her wand away and taking his hand, leading him away from the dead Agravaine.

Ophelia flinched as Arthur jumped forward, sighing heavily as she glared at the king. “Merlin! Ophelia!” he exclaimed with a smile, Ophelia scoffing quietly, unable to prevent the smile on her lips from forming. “Were you worried about us?” Merlin asked with a small smirk, Arthur hesitating before scoffing “I was worried about Lady Black, I feared you had gotten her into some trouble” he lied, Ophelia chuckling quietly “trouble finds me, Arthur, not the other way around” she muttered jokingly, walking past him as she patted his shoulder, soon hearing both of their footsteps follow her towards the others.

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

Ophelia couldn’t help but smile up at the dragon as he landed in front of both her and Merlin, her eyes bright and it seemed like the dragon was pleased to see her as well. “Well, thank you. You saved us all” Merlin stated casually, the dragon briefly nodding “the land of Albion and the future we have all fought for was in peril” the dragon rationalised, Ophelia turning to look at Merlin as he was the embodiment of defeat, despair and hopelessness, a small sigh leaving her and she looked back at the dragon with pleading eyes, begging him for something. Some advice. Tips. Hell, even a training manual on how to bring self-confidence back to others, or oneself, would help. Luckily, though, the dragon seemed to catch on, tilting it’s large head at Merlin “what is troubling you, young warlock?”

“It’s Arthur… he’s lost the will to fight…” Merlin admitted, Ophelia gently placing her hand on his shoulder as a silent comfort before looking back up at the dragon “nothing we say or do helps… he thinks he doesn’t deserve to be king. That he lost for good, that he failed everyone, especially his people” Ophelia added once Merlin seemed to bite his tongue in order to keep his emotions at bay, as if saying something would make him break down in tears. “The fate of Camelot rests in the hands of you, young warlock. For you, Merlin, and you alone, can restore the king’s faith” the dragon stated softly, Ophelia giving Merlin an encouraging smile when he looked at her, briefly, before looking up at the dragon again “how? Nothing that Ophelia or I have said so far has worked, he won’t listen…”

“You must make him believe that he can be king once more-”

“The sword!” Ophelia blurted out, turning to face a confused Merlin. “The sword. That only the true king of Camelot, Arthur, can lift!”

“How do you-”

“Merlin, even outside the wizarding world, you’re still a legend, just thought of as more… fiction. You, Arthur and Excalibur are literally famous world-wide as one of the oldest and most prominent British legends. Literally everyone knows about Arthur and his bloody sword” Ophelia stated with amusement, grinning from ear to ear as an idea formed in his mind, the dragon chuckling at the duo. “I see you hardly need my advice to save the world of Albion, young warlock. She’s quite the clever one” the dragon complimented, Ophelia blushing as she smirked up at the dragon “head-girl of Ravenclaw, thank you very much” she stated with amusement, turning back to Merlin “all we need is an audience! And of course a reason for him to lift it! The other people who escaped, can you find them?” Ophelia asked the dragon urgently, the dragon raising his head proudly, unfolding his wings a little to show their size. “I am a dragon. I can cover many leagues in the blink of an eye. They shouldn’t be too hard to find” he stated smugly, Ophelia taking off her bag, opening it and putting it on the ground, stepping back to point her wand at it “Accio Firebolt!” a broom with brass stirrups flew out of her bag, taking both Merlin and the dragon by surprise, both of them leaning away as the broom shot out of the bag, flying high into the air, shooting back down before halting just above the ground, hovering. Ophelia smirked at both the dragon and Merlin, picking her bag up, putting it over her head and shoulder before casually mounting the broom, turning her gaze to the dragon. “You’ve seen it before” she argued, Merlin nodding “it’s still… your bag, it’s incredible! A-And your broom! I’ve never seen one like it!”

“It’s the fastest and latest model of racing brooms. I didn’t beat Cho at becoming Seeker by chance” she teased before turning to the dragon “well, we have some people to find, don’t we?” she asked with a smirk.

She grabbed the broomstick more sternly, placing both feet in the stirrups before looking at the dragon “see if you can keep up” she teased before shooting off, the dragon turning to Merlin with amusement “I see why you care so deeply for her” he teased before flying off, catching up with Ophelia who was smirking at him, the two of them glancing at each other before flying off.

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

As Percival and Leon stepped forward, Ophelia walked out from behind them, smiling softly at a shocked Arthur. Her hair was wild and tangled, untamed as though she had been flying through the air, which Arthur of course dismissed because that wasn’t possible. As Arthur turned to whisper to Merlin, she approached, ignoring the part of her that wanted to fawn over the sword in the rock, the actual proof of the myth and legend. THE Excalibur. “We’re all here, Arthur” she stated softly, gently placing a hand on his shoulder as he turned to look at her, following her gaze as she turned to look at the sword. “Tristan is wrong. They’re here because they know that you’re their king. You will always be their king, Arthur, even if you sometimes forget it yourself” she smiled warmly at him, biting her tongue and a sarcastic remark when she saw the tears in his eyes. “And you? You’re always ready to question me...” he asked hesitantly, swallowing thickly, his question making Ophelia smile even wider as she held back a laugh. “I might chew your ear off but you’ll always be my king, Arthur. And a friend I trust and care for, deeply. A good servant must sometimes tell their king the ugly truth, rather than a pleasant lie, but that doesn’t mean that I’ll ever stop respecting you or see you as my king and friend” she admitted, gesturing in a head nod towards the sword. “Everyone here sees you not only as their king, but their friend. They’re here because they love you, because they believe in you… all you need to do is believe in yourself as well, repay their trust and faith in you by believing in yourself…” she added before stepping back to Merlin’s side as Arthur kept his gaze on the sword.

As Arthur grasped the sword with both hands, Ophelia couldn’t help but sigh a little. He didn’t believe. He didn’t believe he was strong enough to lift it like any other sword. And Merlin knew this. “You have to believe, Arthur” Merlin’s voice was calm, even as Arthur began to shake, and not entirely because he was straining himself. Ophelia nearly stepped forward when Merlin gently caught her by her wrist, keeping her in place as Ophelia looked up at him with a frown. “He can’t believe in himself if you don’t” he whispered, Ophelia nodding to herself, interlocking her hand with Merlin’s instead. “You’re destined to be Albion’s greatest king. Nothing, not even this stone, can stand in your way” Ophelia spoke softly yet sternly, Arthur glancing over his shoulder at Ophelia who gave him a firm nod, making him look back at his sword, grasping it with one hand, his eyes closed as he tried to find his will. “Have faith” Merlin spoke softly, his eyes glowing bright with the light of a roaring fire and Arthur drew the sword. Ophelia couldn’t help but smile as she watched Arthur pull the sword from the stone, chest filling with a sense of pride as she watched the courage come back to her king. If one had told her two years ago that she would actually call someone king, let alone proclaim it to be her king, she would’ve called them a loon and hexed them to never be near her again. Yet here she stood, a bright smile on her lips as she echoed the words that filled the small clearing.

‘Long Live The King!’

[purpleplaid17]

Jess Watches // Tues 6 Feb // Day 137 Synopses & Favourite Scenes & Poll

Julia (with mum) 1x06 Breads

While Paul and Judith experiment with baking, Julia tackled a different kind of "bread." As a sleep-deprived Russ tasks Alice with even more work, the future of Avis's position on the show is questioned.

Was Avis not wanting to do a multi-episode season, in which she flits in and out of, a dig at Frasier lmao. Her and DHP must get along because they have such a natural chemistry together. And is Judith a little in love with Julia? The way she looked at her when she said she was there only to see her. 👀

Merlin 2x01 The Curse of Cornelius Sigan

A treasure chamber is unearthed beneath Camelot, the centre-piece being a glowing blue stone in the sarcophagus lid of Cornelius Sigan, a sorcerer. Consequently possessed by Sigan's spirit, Cedric takes on his magic powers and animates the castle gargoyles, which terrorize the city.

I'm Gwen, hugging and comforting Morgana as all the men keep trying to gaslight her. Wth, Gaius. Why not treat Morgana with the same honesty and respect that you do Merlin. Speaking of Gwen, has the wardrobe budget for her increased because she looked stunning. Also, Arthur is a clotpole. Pass it on.

Six Nations: Full Contact Ep 2 Hard Knock Life

Italy is under pressure to perform in the England game. With last year's injury at the front of his mind, Sebastian Negri faces up to the challenge.

The way he could barely talk about such a traumatic experience. And to still continue after that. A very brave man, and self-admitted c*nt.

[clotpolemerlin]

Me not even 5 minutes after posting a ~20,000 word chapter update: .... comments?

[himbodiaz]

I've had 3 rounds and a sound playing on a loop for the past 3 hours and just felt the need to tell you thank you for introducing me to the song xx

ITS SO FUCKING GOOD!!!!! I HAD IT ON REPEAT FOR 72+ HOURS WHEN I REDISCOVERED IT BACK IN MAY

[sylviawitch]

Merlin Do This, Merlin Do That, Merlin Don’t Quit (fic)

(AO3 link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/42086475)

“And it’s all ‘Merlin, do this, Merlin do that, Merlin you haven’t cleaned my fifth favourite sword properly, and why haven’t you found time to tidy the mess I made while also writing my speeches for me, and how dare you talk to Gwaine, ever?’ and by the way I’m also actually spending all my life saving him from getting his prattish royal self killed by random people who hate his father or who he’s somehow managed to offend, and I can’t imagine how he manages to do that…” Merlin finally pauses for breath, and Gaius takes the chance to step in.

“And having ranted about Arthur for the last half an hour whilst your soup got cold, perhaps you might try a bit more eating and a little less complaining? It might make you feel better. You do seem rather obsessed with Arthur these days.”

“Oh, as to the soup,” says Merlin, absently waving his hand over his bowl and letting his magic heat it, oblivious of Gaius’s frowning disapproval. He takes two mouthfuls, and then begins again, “And then this morning, Arthur says to me…”

Gaius sighs.

*

“Why is it,” Arthur asks, conversationally, “that whenever I want Merlin, he is nowhere to be found, and whenever I don’t want him, he’s right there, staring at me like a gormless oaf? What is it, I ask myself, that I have done for this to be the case?”

“And good morning to you too, Arthur,” Morgana says, tilting her head and examining him as if he were a piece of dirt she had found upon her best dress.

“This morning, breakfast time,” Arthur continues, unusually unphased by his adopted sister’s disapproval, “was he anywhere to be found? No. No, he was not. I had to put up with George - George - bringing me breakfast. Whereas yesterday-“

“Most people,” Morgana cuts across him pointedly, “begin a conversation by greeting the person they are speaking to, and at least making some effort to allow them some part of speech. It is considered good manners, even if they do have a crush a mile wide on their manservant .”

“It’s considered good manners not to interrupt someone when they’re talking,” Arthur throws back. “And I certainly do not have a crush on that big eared twit! Anything but. Quite obviously, I would have thought. Now, about what I was saying. Do you know what that… that… clotpole did yesterday…?”

*

“Why weren’t you in my room when I got here?” Arthur demands. “We left the training ground at the same time.”

“Yes, and I had to put all your things away, and make sure your precious sword didn’t have a speck of dirt on it, and -“

“You could have done that later, you knew I wanted you here now.”

“Oh, what,” Merlin demands, “am I supposed to be psychic now?”

“No, just have some common sense.” Arthur gives a derisive laugh. “But I suppose that’s beyond you.”

“That’s it, I quit,” yells Merlin.

“No you don’t. Don’t be ridiculous.”

“Oh, I’m being ridiculous now, am I?” Merlin says, hands on hips like an angry fishwife. “No common sense and now I’m ridiculous, you can’t possibly want me as your servant.”

“Well, I do,” Arthur says stubbornly.

“That’s bad luck, because you heard me. I resign. I’m done. I quit.”

“You can’t quit. I won’t allow it,” Arthur retorts angrily.

“You won’t… you won’t allow it?” Merlin’s voice is high with indignation.

Arthur’s eyes are hot and dark, more pupil than iris, his face set. “No. I am the Prince of Camelot and you are my manservant and *I* say if you stay or go.” He takes a step nearer to Merlin. “You are mine, aren’t you, Merlin?”

Merlin’s fury still burns bright in the colour in his high cheekbones, across the tips of the ears that Arthur won’t admit to adoring. His jaw is clenched tightly together, but he looks straight at Arthur as he grits out,

“Yes, damn you.”

“That’s damn you, Sire’,” Arthur corrects, a little obnoxiously.

“Oh, for…”

Neither of them know which leans forward first, though Arthur will always insist it was Merlin, and Merlin, Arthur. But they are kissing, suddenly, in the middle of the room, and the tension of the past month is forgotten in the clash of mouths and tongues and bodies, both fighting for dominance for a minute before Arthur takes control, walking Merlin backwards until he is pressed up against the wall, Arthur’s body pinning him against it as the kiss goes on and on.

“Mine, Merlin,” he murmurs, voice deep and dark.

Merlin both loves and hates that he’d get down on his knees for Arthur when he’s like this; he hopes the other man doesn’t know it but suspects he does.

“Yes, Sire.”

Arthur pulls back to look him in the face. “And no more talk of quitting.”

Merlin bites at his lip. “Was - this - just to make me stay?” He asks, hoping his voice doesn’t sound as small as he feels.

Arthur rolls his eyes. “Yes, Merlin, I always try and persuade my servants to stay by kissing them. What sort of man do you think I am?”

Merlin, unable to resist an opening like that, begins to answer, but Arthur realises the mistake he has made before Merlin has got more than a word out.

“Wait, don’t answer that,” he says hastily. “Anyway,” he adds snootily, “it was you who kissed me. Of course, I can’t blame you. I’m eminently kissable. But I can hardly be accused of forcing you to throw yourself at me.”

Merlin’s mouth drops open. “I did not, you complete and utter dollophead!” he says indignantly. “You were the one who -“

Arthur cuts him off. “It was clearly you, but since you’re not resigning after all, I have a number of tasks for you.”

Merlin sighs. “Go on then, tell me.”

Arthur grins. “Well, the first involves testing the pillows on my bed with me. I mean, you wouldn’t like me to be going to bed with substandard pillows, would you? So perhaps you would like to come and lie down next to me, and we could test how comfortable they are… together?”

Merlin’s mouth curls up into his brightest smile as Arthur takes his hand and leads him over to the bed. As they lay down on top of the covers, heads close enough on the pillows that Merlin need only turn his head a little way too catch Arthur’s lips with his own, he says,

“Well, I’m afraid, Sire… these pillows might need an awful lot of testing.”

Arthur’s answer is not in words.