Merthur Week 2025

welcome to merthurweek2025!! admin @bellamyblakru

[merthurweek2025]

☀️STARTING December 18th - 24th🌑

WE BACKKKKK. duh💅this is my baby, and i love and cherish everyone who has continued to support me or recently found themselves here—i appreciate everything and everyone. thank you for loving our forever sun and moon as much as i do💖

have fun and enjoy!!!☀️🌕

FOR FANFIC OR META WRITERS - prompts and/or themes for inspiration:

day one: fake/temporary death + angst

day two: childhood memory + protective!others

day three: “stay away.” + angst with a happy ending

day four: spell(s) gone awry + humor

day five: bamf!merlin + hurt/comfort

day six: “oh. oh.” realization + fluff

day seven: magic reveal + canon era💖

there is an ao3 collection under the name which can be found here 'merthurweek2025’ - if you wish to add your fics

please put the day and prompt in your summary if posting to ao3.

reminder: merlin/arthur do not need to be the one to say the line or be the things exactly! and the + means and/or. these are mostly for inspiration alone. if you would like to just write fake death au for day one, for example, and not use angst, then that's perfectly fine.

FOR GIFS/ VIDEO/ ART CREATORS - ideas and/or themes for inspiration:

day one: enemies of merthur + red hues

day two: favorite quote(s) said between/about them + orange hues

day three: favorite location(s) + yellow hues

day four: favorite merlin scene(s) + green hues

day five: favorite arthur scene(s) + blue hues

day six: favorite merthur scene(s) + purple hues

day seven: “love didn’t change anything…but it was there.” + any color combo💖

rules:

must be posted on tumblr so we can reblog

please tag your posts as #merthurweek2025 and/or tag us directly.

NSFW is allowed, just please tag appropriately.

have fun and enjoy yourself! this week is all about supporting each other and sharing your work!

questions, concerns, or just wanna talk? you can dm or send asks at this account or my main @bellamyblakru

[merthurweek2025]

omg yall are doing such beautiful work!!! i appreciate everyone’s effort and dedication so far—i am loving every second of it.

ive been thinking about doing a year-long thing for next year (WITH MERTHURWEEK2026, TOO) so this account isn’t as dormant for 10 months LOL whatcha think? ORRRR i just reblog merthur stuff? with merthur2026 handle?

what should i do next year with this account?

do the same as always - keep downlow until new fest time

reblog merthur content throughout the year with the fest at the end (as always)*

make a year-long content post-like fest and reblog all year long with tracking**

something else? lmk!!!

Voting ended onDec 28, 2025

*with a tracking tag for reblogging and naming it merthur2026 / making it merthurfest2026 before fest starts

**also with merthur2026 / change for fest season

[merthurweek2025]

AHHH IT WAS SUPER CLOSE. okayokay, how about i do both the winners? reblog throughout the year with stuff tagged as merthur2026 AND make a collection event for the year of the previous fests?

hows that sound? next, we decide the queue tag!!

queue name tag for merthur2026

queue belong at Arthur's side

i don't want to lose queue

queue sides of the same coin

queue threatening me with a spoon?

i use it for you, Arthur, only for queue.

i was born to serve queue, Arthur, and i’m proud of that

i don't want queue to change.

i want you to always be queue

suggestions!!!

Voting ended onJan 4

[merthurweek2025]

omg yall are doing such beautiful work!!! i appreciate everyone’s effort and dedication so far—i am loving every second of it.

ive been thinking about doing a year-long thing for next year (WITH MERTHURWEEK2026, TOO) so this account isn’t as dormant for 10 months LOL whatcha think? ORRRR i just reblog merthur stuff? with merthur2026 handle?

what should i do next year with this account?

do the same as always - keep downlow until new fest time

reblog merthur content throughout the year with the fest at the end (as always)*

make a year-long content post-like fest and reblog all year long with tracking**

something else? lmk!!!

Voting ended onDec 28, 2025

*with a tracking tag for reblogging and naming it merthur2026 / making it merthurfest2026 before fest starts

**also with merthur2026 / change for fest season

[merthurweek2025]

AHHH IT WAS SUPER CLOSE. okayokay, how about i do both the winners? reblog throughout the year with stuff tagged as merthur2026 AND make a collection event for the year of the previous fests?

hows that sound? next, we decide the queue tag!!

queue name tag for merthur2026

queue belong at Arthur's side

i don't want to lose queue

queue sides of the same coin

queue threatening me with a spoon?

i use it for you, Arthur, only for queue.

i was born to serve queue, Arthur, and i’m proud of that

i don't want queue to change.

i want you to always be queue

suggestions!!!

Voting ended onJan 4

[merthurweek2025]

omg yall are doing such beautiful work!!! i appreciate everyone’s effort and dedication so far—i am loving every second of it.

ive been thinking about doing a year-long thing for next year (WITH MERTHURWEEK2026, TOO) so this account isn’t as dormant for 10 months LOL whatcha think? ORRRR i just reblog merthur stuff? with merthur2026 handle?

what should i do next year with this account?

do the same as always - keep downlow until new fest time

reblog merthur content throughout the year with the fest at the end (as always)*

make a year-long content post-like fest and reblog all year long with tracking**

something else? lmk!!!

Voting ended onDec 28, 2025

*with a tracking tag for reblogging and naming it merthur2026 / making it merthurfest2026 before fest starts

**also with merthur2026 / change for fest season

[merthurweek2025]

AHHH IT WAS SUPER CLOSE. okayokay, how about i do both the winners? reblog throughout the year with stuff tagged as merthur2026 AND make a collection event for the year of the previous fests?

hows that sound? next, we decide the queue tag!!

queue name tag for merthur2026

queue belong at Arthur's side

i don't want to lose queue

queue sides of the same coin

queue threatening me with a spoon?

i use it for you, Arthur, only for queue.

i was born to serve queue, Arthur, and i’m proud of that

i don't want queue to change.

i want you to always be queue

suggestions!!!

Voting ended onJan 4

[merthurweek2025]

omg yall are doing such beautiful work!!! i appreciate everyone’s effort and dedication so far—i am loving every second of it.

ive been thinking about doing a year-long thing for next year (WITH MERTHURWEEK2026, TOO) so this account isn’t as dormant for 10 months LOL whatcha think? ORRRR i just reblog merthur stuff? with merthur2026 handle?

what should i do next year with this account?

do the same as always - keep downlow until new fest time

reblog merthur content throughout the year with the fest at the end (as always)*

make a year-long content post-like fest and reblog all year long with tracking**

something else? lmk!!!

Voting ended onDec 28, 2025

*with a tracking tag for reblogging and naming it merthur2026 / making it merthurfest2026 before fest starts

**also with merthur2026 / change for fest season

[merthurweek2025]

AHHH IT WAS SUPER CLOSE. okayokay, how about i do both the winners? reblog throughout the year with stuff tagged as merthur2026 AND make a collection event for the year of the previous fests?

hows that sound? next, we decide the queue tag!!

queue name tag for merthur2026

queue belong at Arthur's side

i don't want to lose queue

queue sides of the same coin

queue threatening me with a spoon?

i use it for you, Arthur, only for queue.

i was born to serve queue, Arthur, and i’m proud of that

i don't want queue to change.

i want you to always be queue

suggestions!!!

Voting ended onJan 4

[merthurweek2025]

omg yall are doing such beautiful work!!! i appreciate everyone’s effort and dedication so far—i am loving every second of it.

ive been thinking about doing a year-long thing for next year (WITH MERTHURWEEK2026, TOO) so this account isn’t as dormant for 10 months LOL whatcha think? ORRRR i just reblog merthur stuff? with merthur2026 handle?

what should i do next year with this account?

do the same as always - keep downlow until new fest time

reblog merthur content throughout the year with the fest at the end (as always)*

make a year-long content post-like fest and reblog all year long with tracking**

something else? lmk!!!

Voting ended onDec 28, 2025

*with a tracking tag for reblogging and naming it merthur2026 / making it merthurfest2026 before fest starts

**also with merthur2026 / change for fest season

[merlinmellark]

Day 7: Magic Reveal + Canon Era

you can also read on AO3 if you prefer!

“You know, I really don’t think I should be doing this anymore.” Merlin says as he removes Arthur’s royal cape. 

“What are you blabbering on about now?” Arthur asks, faking indifference. 

Merlin gives him a look but carries on. “I’m not your servant anymore, remember?” 

Arthur presses a finger to his chin as he thoughtfully looks off into the distance. “Oh, are you not?” 

“No.” Merlin starts working on the buckles of Arthur’s armour, his fingers flying over the clasps without having to even think about it. 

“What are you then?” Arthur asks, and Merlin smirks at the teasing tone lacing Arthur’s words. He removes the chest plate and places it on the table, muttering under his breath as he does so. “What was that?” Arthur asks, loudly. “I can’t hear you.” 

“The court sorcerer.” Merlin repeats, but louder this time, and turns to find Arthur grinning at him. It’s a smile that he adores, and one that the prince had been wearing throughout the entirety of the ceremony held to appoint Merlin into the royal court. 

Revealing to the kingdom’s people that Merlin was a sorcerer and that Uther was intending to change his views on magic as a whole was an extremely unique experience. It was one that Merlin thought he would never live to see. He had stood in front of all the people that had flocked to the kingdom when news had spread of a grand event being held in the castle courtyard. A lot of them already knew Merlin as the manservant to the prince, but it was obvious by their confused facial expressions that they were perplexed as to why he was dressed in such finery as he stood beside the prince at the top of the castle steps whilst waiting for Uther to make his speech. Merlin had quivered in his old leather boots – the only piece of his own clothing that Arthur allowed him to wear – as he faced the crowds of people. Arthur had leaned in to tease him, but cut off with a grunt as Merlin sneakily elbowed him in the ribs. Uther had thrown a warning glance over his shoulder at the two of them, and they stood up straighter, keeping stoney, apologetic expressions on their faces. That was, until, the king turned back around, and then they couldn’t help but let out titters of laughter before the king launched into his speech, changing the course of history forever. 

Merlin had made a speech as well, addressing the people and introducing himself to them as their new royal court sorcerer. He swore allegiance to the kingdom and made an oath to only use his magic for the greater good of everyone. He also promised that he would help keep everyone safe from exterior threats, whether they be magic or not. When the kingdom’s people congratulated him and praised him afterwards, he became very overwhelmed. Of course, there were some who seemed a little wary of the king’s new changes, but it was nothing they couldn’t handle.

Once the celebrations after the ceremony were coming to a close, Arthur had told Merlin that he was ready to retire for the night. 

So now the two of them were in Arthur’s chambers, and Merlin was helping Arthur out of his royal attire. 

He waits whilst Arthur removes his gambeson and then takes it from him, placing it on the table alongside his armour and chainmail. He then goes to fetch his sleeping tunic, when Arthur wraps his hands around his wrist to stop him. Merlin freezes, his attention going straight to Arthur’s big warm hand wrapped around his slender wrist. When he slowly looks up, his eyes meet with Arthur’s, which are soft at the corners and glimmering in the low evening light. 

“I wanted to say thank you.” Arthur says, and there it is again – that soft tone of voice that he’d never heard Arthur use with anyone but him. It sent shivers down his spine and he felt a little self conscious of the goosebumps that rose on his skin where Arthur was touching him. 

“Thank me for what, my lord?” Merlin asks, and Arthur tilts his head with a knowing smile on his lips. 

“You know what. For all the times you’ve saved my arse, never asking for credit.”

Merlin shrugs his shoulders. “I should be thanking you,” Arthur raises his eyebrows, and Merlin grins, “For not ordering me into the stocks for having magic. I can’t believe you knew all this time.” 

Arthur chuckles, and Merlin feels him brush the pad of his thumb up his wrist a little. The two of them seem to be growing closer by the second – so close that Merlin can feel heat radiating off Arthur’s bare chest. He tries not to look at it, but his impulses betray him, and his eyes flicker down to the sprinkling of hair on the prince’s chest. He shuffles a little awkwardly on his feet as he drags his eyes away, looking off into the darkness that was starting to pool in the corners of the room. “I should turn your bed down for you, sire—” he starts to say and tries to take a step away from Arthur, but isn't able to get very far, as Arthur tightens his grip around his wrist, forcing Merlin to look him in the eye again. 

“Thank you.” Arthur repeats, but this time, his voice is deeper, silkier, and suddenly there’s a different atmosphere in the air. Arthur’s eyes have fluttered half-way shut, and Merlin feels something stimulating stir in the pit of his stomach. He turns a little, so that the two of them are facing each other more head-on. 

“You don’t have to thank me.” Merlin whispers, his voice soft like the crackling from the fireplace. “Ever.” 

And then Arthur is tugging Merlin closer and closer until Merlin’s chest collides with his and the heat from his skin is sinking pleasurably through the material of Merlin’s tunic. Merlin can feel Arthur’s hot, short breaths as he moves his face closer. 

And then the prince – the future king of Camelot – is tentatively pressing his mouth to Merlin’s. The kiss starts slow: soft, gentle and a little hesitant, but when Merlin tilts his head to the side, signalling to Arthur that he’s okay with this – more than okay with this – it becomes more passionate. Arthur lets go of Merlin’s wrist, and instead twists his hand in the material at Merlin’s waist to keep him in place. He raises his other hand to place on the back of Merlin’s head to deepen the kiss further. A small moan erupts from Merlin’s mouth and he can feel the blood rushing to his cheeks as he melts into Arthur. 

When they finally break apart, they look at each other as though they’re both gazing at stars in the night sky. And then they both laugh a little, making a bit more space between the two of them. 

“I’ve wanted to do that for such a long time.” Arthur admits, and Merlin is thrilled to see that his cheeks were flushed too. 

“Oh, really?” Merlin teases, rocking back on the balls of his feet. “How long exactly?” 

The faux-thinking expression from earlier falls back into place on Arthur’s face as he puts one hand on his hip, the other scratching his chin comically. “Oh, long before I knew about your magic.” Merlin’s mouth drops open in surprise, and Arthur laughs, leaning forward to hook the crook of his elbow around Merlin’s neck, leading him over to the bed. “C’mon, you can turn my bed down and I’ll tell you all about it.” 

THE END

day seven prompt: magic reveal + canon era for: @merthurweek2025

thank you SO MUCH to everyone who has read and supported this little mini fic written for the merthurweek2025 writing event. I had so much fun creating a storyline to fit in with all the prompts, and I really hope you all enjoyed reading it just as much!

I hope you all have a lovely Christmas, and at least in this version of Merlin, they have a happier time :')

[ughmerlin]

BBC MERLIN: “THE DIAMOND OF THE DAY” first aired 13 years ago on December 24, 2012

[bellamyblakru]

there are many, many things shining in this world (but among them, you're the only one that's precious to me)

for @lightasthesun and @pantsbutfancy !! my og muses for this fic!! thank you both❤️

day seven of @merthurweek2025 - magic reveal + canon era💖

An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works

[cabbageheadss]

MERTHUR WEEK 2025 | Day 7: "Love didn't change anything... but it was there" ↳ @merthurweek2025

[interrogatethecat]

Six Things Arthur Learns About Merlin (and One Thing He Learns About Himself, Too)

for day six of @merthurweek2025 | “oh. oh.” and/or fluff | 7k words on ao3!

1. Merlin is an idiot, but he’s a brave one

The boy in front of Arthur is thin and knobbly, with sharp cheekbones and too-big ears that make him look rather ridiculous. Everything about him screams peasant, from the ratty neckerchief around his neck to his utter stupidity– because who would dare insult the crown prince besides an idiot?

“I’d never have a friend who could be such an ass,” the boy– Merlin– says, and even as Arthur scoffs, appalled by Merlin’s lack of respect, part of him comes alive with excitement. Even if it’s only stupidity, no one ever speaks to Arthur like this– like a person instead of a prince.

Merlin turns, and Arthur doesn’t know what it is– a desire to keep talking to him, or perhaps to put him in his place– but something in him hates the idea of Merlin walking away. Before he can really think it through, he’s calling out, “Nor I one who could be so stupid.”

A couple of the squires behind Arthur chortle, but he barely notices them. Instead, his attention is on Merlin, who’s stopped walking, though his back is still to Arthur, hands clenched and shoulders tense.

“Tell me, Merlin,” Arthur says, “do you know how to walk on your knees?”

Merlin turns then, chin held high defiantly. “No.”

Arthur steps forward, condescending. “Would you like me to help you?”

Merlin’s lips twist into something wry. “I wouldn’t if I were you.”

Arthur can’t help his laugh, because really. Merlin must be stupider than Arthur thought if he reckons that he can take Arthur. “Why? What are you going to do to me?”

“You have no idea,” Merlin says, like a promise.

Arthur throws him in the dungeons a few minutes later, and laughs about the overconfident imbecile with the squires after the guards have taken him away. Imagine, one of them says, being so much a fool that you didn’t recognize nobility, and the prince at that! Arthur can’t help but agree.

The incident is forgotten until a few days later, when Arthur sees a familiar head of dark hair and oversized ears in the lower town. When he calls out, “How’s your knee-walking coming along?” he expects another encounter to laugh about with the other nobles, making fun of a common idiot.

Instead, Arthur gets the thrill of Merlin continuing to talk back, even though this time, he knows exactly who Arthur is.

Things only escalate from there, and all of a sudden, they’re vaulting through the market, maces swinging. Merlin drops the weapon before they’ve even begun and his technique is atrocious, but he doesn’t cower, even when Arthur bears down on him with a stroke that would make full-fledged knights flinch. Arthur couldn’t say when in the fight it happens, but his first real discovery about Merlin happens then:

Merlin is an idiot, yes. But he’s also a brave one.

[merlinmellark]

Day 6: "Oh. Oh." Realization + Fluff

you can also read on AO3 if you prefer!

Uther’s face goes pale, his eyes widening as he whips his attention towards Merlin. He opens his mouth – no doubt about to sentence Merlin to death – but Arthur steps in front of his servant, hands held out placatingly. 

“No, father. Please, listen to me.” 

“This boy has magic?” Uther thunders, spittle flying from his mouth, and Merlin hunches his shoulders, some primal instinct begging him to escape.

“You have to listen to me. Father, I promise you, Merlin is not a threat.” 

The atmosphere in the hall drips down the walls like poison, and Merlin can practically feel the hatred radiating off of Uther like steam, his eyes wide and blazing, his body rigid with caution. He casts his gaze upon Merlin once more, and Merlin knows he would be dead in a flash if looks had the ability to slaughter. 

As he keeps his breathing under control – not wanting Uther to catch on to how terrified he is – his head is buzzing with question after question as he attempts to process what’s happening. 

“Merlin can help us create a better kingdom.” Arthur explains, and there’s desperation in not only his voice, but his eyes. He turns to face Merlin then. “I've known about his magic for some time.” 

“You have?” Merlin baulks, and a soft look is exchanged between him and the prince, but it’s quickly interrupted when Uther roars to life again. 

“Is this some sort of joke?” 

“No, father.” Arthur sucks in a deep breath, clearly trying his best to think of how he can explain everything without getting either of them thrown in the stocks – or worse. “Can we please sit down and we’ll explain everything.” 

“Will we?” Merlin thinks, but when Arthur shoots him an exasperated look, he realises he’d said it out loud. He clamps his mouth shut. 

Uther looks uncertain, keeping his eyes on Merlin the whole time, as if he’s afraid he’ll lash out, but eventually gestures for them to move into the council room. “Monitor the sorcerer closely.” He tells the guards as they sit down at the long table. 

As Merlin sits down, he feels reality start to sink in: how did Arthur know he had magic? And for how long exactly? Did he see him using magic in the cell and figure it out? Or had he known long before that? Arthur seems to have noticed Merlin’s inner questioning, and raps his knuckles gently on the table in front of him to get his attention. 

“It’ll be fine.” He said in a voice so quiet that Merlin knows it’s only meant for his ears. He blinks at Arthur and then catches Uther studying them curiously from the other end of the table. 

“First, I want you to tell me about this grand plan that you had.” Uther orders and Arthur sits up a little straighter in his chair. 

“Merlin came to me yesterday and told me of a tonic that Gaius has. One that slows the heart down enough that it can give the impression that the patient is dead. That’s where we came up with the idea of trying to trick the curse. We were trying to come up with a solution that wouldn’t require sacrificing an innocent life—”

“I was never going to sacrifice anyone innocent,” Uther interrupts, his words booming across the room. “I was merely contemplating the idea of… forfeiting a criminal. Someone who has to pay the price for their crimes.” 

“We didn’t want to sacrifice anyone’s life, guilty or not.” Arthur says, and the sternness of his voice seems to shock the king into silence. 

Uther interlaces his fingers together on top of the table, sitting back in his chair a little more. “Carry on.”

“I wanted to do it. I couldn’t let Merlin risk his own life for my kingdom. That’s my job.” There’s passion in Arthur’s words, and Uther raises a grey eyebrow at them – Merlin can’t figure out if it’s a good or bad sign. “But Merlin took the tonic before I could do so.” 

“Defying orders,” Uther mutters, turning his piercing gaze back to Merlin, “Why does that not surprise me?” 

Merlin knows well enough to keep his mouth clamped shut.

“Well, obviously it didn’t work,” Arthur carries on, sounding a little more deflated now, “But we had to at least try.” 

“How did you escape the cell?” Uther asks, and when Arthur draws in a breath to reply, Uther stops him with a raised hand, keeping his eyes trained on Merlin. “No, I want him to tell me.” 

Merlin’s blood runs cold. “I… uh…. the guards… they dropped the key and—”

“The truth, sorcerer.” Uther demands, and Merlin swallows around the lump that had made its home in his throat. 

This is it, Merlin thinks to himself as he shifts in his chair. He can feel the weight of everyone’s gaze on him, the sweat collecting in the palms of his hands, his heart beating erratically against his rib cage. This is it. 

“I used my magic to distract the guards. In doing so, they dropped the keys and I… I cast a spell to bring the keys to where I could reach them.” 

It felt strange – no, it felt insane – to be speaking so openly about using his magic. To be telling Uther Pendragon of all people about his magic. Never did he think he’d be having a conversation like this with the king. Merlin suspected that it wasn’t that far-fetched to imagine that this was probably going to be the last conversation he would have with anybody. After this, Merlin had a feeling he wouldn’t be marched back to the cells, but to the gallows instead. 

“And you knew he could do this?” Uther asks Arthur, and Merlin didn’t know whether to feel relieved or unnerved by the calmness in his tone. He kept trying to pinpoint exactly when Uther would erupt again. 

“I’ve known for years.” Arthur says, and Merlin’s thoughts tumble to a halt. He slowly turns to face Arthur, his head spinning slightly. 

“Years?” He repeats, and Arthur crosses his arms over his chest. 

“I’ve told you many times before, Merlin,” The prince sounds almost weary, “You can’t hide anything from me.” 

“Oh.” Merlin breathes, sitting back in his own chair, the solid hardness of the wood comforting and stabilising as he comes to the realisation that after all this time, after all these years of being careful, sneaking around and lying, it had been futile. Arthur had already known. He had always known. “Oh.” 

“How do you expect me to react,” Uther asks, bringing Merlin out of his strange haze of actualisation. “To hearing this? What do you expect me to do with all this information, knowing how I feel about magic?”

The flush in Arthur’s cheeks quickly fades away, and the sight of his brow creasing into a frown sends Merlin spiralling into a pit of anxiety once again. Because it was true: what was Uther supposed to do other than send Merlin to his death? That was how he had always treated sorcerers – why would they expect him to react any differently towards Merlin? Uther held no real loyalties to Merlin – up until now, he had just been another disposable servant. Perhaps he would even disown Arthur for lying to him and letting magic reside in his kingdom. 

“I beg you to be open-minded.” Is all Arthur manages to say, and when Uther laughs, the sound of it disconcerts Merlin so much that he wishes he could crawl into a ball. 

“Open-minded?” Uther’s words are flecked with disbelief and he looks from Arthur, to Merlin, and then back again. “Arthur, you really want me to be open-minded about the thing that killed your mother?

The prince sighs and closes his eyes tightly for a moment. “What happened to my mother was horrible, but it was just another part of life. Sometimes things work, and sometimes they don’t. I made peace with that fact a long time ago, and I think it’s about time that you did too, father. We cannot continue living in a world of hatred and spite. It will get us nowhere.” 

“What could you possibly know about it?” Uther snarls. “You are just a boy. You have not lived the way I have. You have not seen the things I’ve seen—”

“I’ve seen enough.” Arthur cuts in, and the confident vigour in his voice seems to shock Uther.

He narrows his eyes as Arthur continues, “I have seen things that you haven’t, father. This is not a competition of who’s had it worst. This is about figuring out what’s best for the majority, and I believe that it’s only fair that those with magic should also be included in that consideration.” 

Merlin was sure he could feel the ground trembling with tension. He risked a quick glance to the others in the room, and it seemed as if Merlin wasn’t the only one affected by the uneasiness of the scene playing out before them all. The guards remained standing to attention, but their foreheads were wrinkled with frowns, and some of the council men were anxiously fiddling with their beards. When Merlin catches movement in the corner of his eye, he turns and is a little startled to find the prince looking directly at him. 

“Merlin has saved me many times over the years.” He says, and Merlin’s spine goes rigid. “And I know he’s used his magic to protect me each time. Whilst it’s true that magic is something we should be cautious of, and that there are those out there that wish to use it for evil,” a sadness flickers in Arthur’s eyes then, and Morgana’s face comes into Merlin’s mind. But then the prince is already taking a breath and carrying on, “It is still unfair to assume that every creature who possesses a magical ability is inherently evil. That’s just not how it works.” Arthur gives Merlin the smallest of smiles before turning back to his father, who – surprisingly – now looks a bit more reined in from his earlier outbursts. “If I hadn’t had Merlin by my side, I would have died a hundred times over by now. Things need to change within this kingdom, father. They need to change for the better.” 

Uther looks at Arthur for a long time, his eyebrows tugged down and his eyes narrowed, but eventually he glances down at the table in front of him, as if trying to process what he’s just heard, and then pushes himself to his feet. He looks at Merlin. “Come here.” He says, and Merlin feels a flash of hot worry pummel him. He momentarily meets eyes with Arthur, who has also pushed himself to his feet, looking as though he’s desperate to intervene. Merlin steps towards the king and is sure that his knees are about to buckle under the weight of the king's gaze as he comes to a stop in front of him. Just when he’s sure an order of death will be placed upon him, the king instead reaches out a hand and places it gently on Merlin’s shoulder. “Thank you,” he says, and the rush of relief that swells through Merlin is almost enough to bring him to his knees. “Thank you for protecting my son, and for being a loyal friend to him. I’m not afraid to admit that I’ve perhaps been too blindly driven by my negative experiences with magic in the past. I cannot promise that I won’t make future mistakes… but with your help, I'd like to be a little kinder.” 

Merlin knows he’s not the only person in the room that is lost for words. He’s all too aware of the way his mouth drops open in shock, but when Arthur not so discreetly clears his throat, he presses his lips together and nods his head, “Uhh, yes, of course, my lord. I’d be honoured to assist in any way I can.” 

The atmosphere in the room softens further as Arthur takes a few tentative steps towards his father. Uther removes his hand from Merlin’s shoulder and turns to face the prince. “My son,” he starts, and there’s a tilt in his voice that Merlin has never heard before. There’s a twinge of remorse in his voice, sitting side by side with a flicker of love. “You are my greatest purpose in life, and I’m sorry if I’ve ever made you feel otherwise. I would do anything to protect you, I hope you know that.” Arthur smiles a little softly, creases settling in around his eyes. Uther presses a hand to the side of his son’s face. “I couldn’t bear the thought of anything happening to you. You are going to be king one day and it would be foolish of me to expect you not to rule how you see fit. I know you care as much about this kingdom as I do, but it’s clear that you also care about this boy,” when Uther looks pointedly at Merlin, he feels a little awkward in his scruffy boots and worn leather jacket, but Uther flashes him the softest look he’s ever given him, and Merlin accepts it gratefully with a polite bow of his head. Uther looks back to Arthur and pats his cheek fondly. “If you can promise me that this boy will not pose a threat to you or anyone else, then I will try my best to try and see things through your eyes.”

Just when Merlin feels as though he’s going to faint from disbelief, there’s a huge gust of wind, the force of it rattling the glass in the windows, and then the doors to the council room burst open and in walks the sorcerer. She looks more put together now, her dress no longer in tatters and her hair piled elegantly on top of her head. Merlin feels Arthur move closer beside him as the woman steps into the room.

“Sorceress,” Uther says, and Merlin sees his body go rigid. 

The woman grins, though there seems to be nowhere near as much malice in it than there was before. “You have shown great improvement, Uther Pendragon.” She says, and tilts her head to the side as her eyes flicker over to Merlin. “He finally found out, then?” She asks, and Merlin feels his own spine go stiff when he realises that he’s being spoken to directly. 

“Yes,” he says a little hesitantly, trying to ignore the dryness in his throat. 

“And both your king and your prince have accepted you. How marvellous that must feel.” There’s a slight pinch to her tone, reminding them all that not every magical creature has been so fortunate. But then the warmth floods back into her eyes and she continues, “Use your magic wisely, young warlock.” Something in the way she speaks instantly reminds Merlin of the Great Dragon imprisoned down in the cave underneath the castle. He really must speak to Arthur about that… unless that’s something he also already knows about… 

The woman turns back to face Uther now, and clasps her hands together in front of her. “So you’ve finally come to see the goodness that lies within magic.” 

Uther studies her face for a moment before he nods carefully, as though trying to figure out what her next move might be so that he can one-up her. 

As if she’s thinking the same thing, the woman laughs, and her posture relaxes a little. “The curse will be terminated.” She says, as though she’s merely speaking of something minor. Merlin and Arthur share a victorious look, but the woman carries on, her tone sliding back into one more serious. “Only as long as this positive attitude towards magic remains. It has been far too long that magic has been outlawed, Uther. Magical creatures are not all evil. There are a select few who choose the dark side, that is a fact and I will grant you it. But there are many more who wish to use magic for good than there are who wish to use it for evil. It is your responsibility now to remember that. For your kingdom,” she glances at Arthur, “and for your family.” 

Uther sucks in a deep breath, rolling his shoulders back. A small grateful smile inches onto his lips, and Merlin wishes he could find some sort of way to capture that look, to remember it for years to come. “Thank you,” The king says and apparently it’s all the woman needs to hear, as she nods her head in response and with a blink of an eye, she’s gone. 

Light starts to flood in from the windows lined along the walls of the room, and Merlin has to squint against the brightness of it. The curse had been lifted. 

As the room erupts into celebrations, everyone talking animatedly in relief, a shadow passes over Merlin’s face. Arthur steps in front of the window to block the light from Merlin’s face, the sun’s golden rays shining like a halo behind his head of blonde hair. 

“Camelot is heading towards a new era.” He says, and Merlin lifts his chin up, feeling somewhat proud to be a part of that change in history – and partly to be a reason for it. 

“It is, my lord.” He replies and when Arthur smiles at him, Merlin feels a cheeky flare wash over him. “I am expecting a raise, though.” 

Arthur’s grin widens, and he looks away for a moment as he chuckles. When his eyes meet with Merlin’s once again, there’s a warmth that’s passed between them. A shiver of pleasure tingles down Merlin’s spine. 

“Don’t push it,” Arthur laughs and reaches out to ruffle Merlin’s hair. 

day six prompt: "oh. oh." realization + fluff for: @merthurweek2025

[interrogatethecat]

for @merthurmicrofic bingo | shadow + excalibur + gold + magic reveal | 502 words

The moment Arthur sees the army, he knows that there is no hope for victory. His men are strong, but they’re outnumbered five to one, and that’s to say nothing of Morgana’s power and any other sorcerers she may have recruited. This, he understands, chest tight, is where Camelot will fall.

Excalibur is heavy in his hands, but still, he holds firm.

Morning is dawning, painting the sky a bloody red, as though it knows the slaughter that will come. It will not be a pleasant death– but at least it will be honorable. He will protect his kingdom and his people until his last breath, and his knights will do the same.

In a few minutes, the carnage will begin. The beginning of the end.

Merlin speaks quietly from behind him. “There’s no hope, is there.” It isn’t a question.

Arthur turns. He told Merlin to stay out of the thick of it, but there was no persuading him; now, his manservant stands in Arthur’s shadow, face grim. Something like fear flashes through Merlin’s eyes, but he doesn’t falter. He has always been braver than Arthur gave him credit for.

Arthur hates that Merlin is here, to be slaughtered at his side, but he is also terribly glad that Merlin will be here with him, at the end.

“It’s not too late for you to go,” Arthur says, which is a lie.

Merlin’s lips twist wryly. “And risk you ruining your armor?”

There’s a shout from across the way.

Arthur looks back to the army; the enemy has hefted their swords and are waiting for their final command. They have only moments.

Merlin steps out of Arthur’s shadow. There is something powerful in the way he holds himself; a surety that Arthur has seldom seen in him. In the dawning light, he looks less like the gangly, clumsy boy Arthur met all those years ago, and more like a warrior or a king. He turns to Arthur, eyes filled in equal parts with regret and determination.

“I’m sorry,” Merlin says.

Arthur frowns, but before he can ask, Merlin’s eyes burn gold.

The ground shakes beneath them and Arthur stumbles, unable to look away from Merlin until he hears the cries from afar. His focus snaps to Morgana’s army. The land has begun to cave in beneath them, and within moments, the entire army has been swallowed by the earth. The shaking stops.

Everything is silent.

Arthur watches the gold fade from Merlin’s eyes, numb with shock.

Merlin just used magic. Merlin leveled an entire army without a single word.

Merlin saved them all.

Arthur doesn’t know much about magic, but he knows that such a feat would not have been possible without great power and practice. He wonders how long Merlin has been lying to him. He wonders how many times Merlin has saved him.

“Arthur,” Merlin says, and though he stands defiantly, Arthur only hears the uncertainty in his voice.

Excalibur falls from Arthur’s hand, bloodless, and the sun rises.

[merlinmellark]

Day 5: Hurt/Comfort

okay, the hurt/comfort is pretty minor, but it’s there if you squint reaaaaaaal hard!

you can also read on AO3 if you prefer!

Arthur had been right: after he and Merlin had been given their pathetic supper of bread and cheese – signalling that it was well into the evening – the two guards on watch had soon both drifted off. 

Merlin argued that they were probably only in a light sleep, which Arthur dismissively waved away. “They’re fast asleep.” 

“What if they’re not? We can’t afford to mess this up, Arthur.” 

“Merlin,” Arthur raised an eyebrow at his servant as he slotted the key into the lock of the cell. “It’s fine, trust me.” 

“How can you be so sure?” Merlin queried further, and Arthur sucked in a sharp deep breath, turned to Merlin, and promptly slapping him upside the head. 

“Ow!” Merlin yelped, bending forward a little and rubbing a hand on the back of his head. “What the hell?” 

But Arthur just stood there, hip cocked, eyebrow raised. Merlin looked from him, to the guards who were both – annoyingly – still fast asleep, and back to Arthur, grumbling a little in annoyance that he had been right. 

“Now come on,” Arthur hissed, turning the key and opening the cell door, not even flinching when it creaked loudly. 

They crept out of the cell and started moving for the stone staircase that would take them back up to the main part of the castle. They were hoping that Uther had yet to select someone for the sacrifice – their plan was to get back up to Merlin and Gaius’ chambers so that they could find out from the physician what the king’s next move was. But first they had to arrive there without running into any problems. 

They carefully listened out for footsteps, hanging back and slipping behind the cover of pillars when it was safe to do so. At one point, Arthur had to grab the back of Merlin’s shirt to stop him from walking around a corner and in plain sight of a couple of guards standing outside a room. Merlin made a strange choking noise as Arthur pulled him back, and the two of them hunkered behind the corner for a few heart-racing moments until the sound of footsteps moving off into the distance could be heard. 

Arthur slowly peeked around the corner, relieved to find that they had gone. He let out a deep sigh and gave Merlin a warning look. “That was close,” He whispered. “We have to get back to your chambers now!” 

With an increased sense of care, they carried on, thankfully not running into any more problems along the way. 

Merlin hurriedly rapped his knuckles on the door whilst Arthur kept watch. Only a few moments later, Gaius was opening the door, his eyes going wide at the sight of Merlin and Arthur. 

“How on earth did you get out of the cells?” Gaius questioned in a hushed tone as he shepherded them inside. Merlin felt that stab of panic flash through him again – had Arthur seen him cast those spells? 

But to his relief, Arthur just shrugged his shoulders, “I woke up and the guards were freaking out about something. Then I saw Merlin pick up the keys from the floor. I just assumed that one of them had knocked them off the table.” 

Gaius looked at Merlin with a subtle eyebrow raised. “I see,” he said, and then sat down on the edge of his bed. 

“Has Uther done anything about the curse yet?” Merlin asked, desperate to change the subject, and feeling grateful when Gaius caught on. 

The old man shook his head, though a grim look was plastered over his face. “Not yet, but he’ll be deciding soon.”

“We should have just gone straight to him.” Arthur spins on his heel and starts heading back towards the door. “Come on, Merlin, we’re going to speak with him now.” 

“Your father will be furious if he knows you’ve escaped the cell!” Gaius warned, standing back up. 

Arthur whirls around, holding his arms out in exasperation. “He’s going to find out anyway. We’re wasting time here. I’m sorry, Gaius, but we have to do this. Damn the consequences.” 

Gaius’ eyes flicker over to Merlin and Merlin feels the physician’s gaze follow him as he leaves after Arthur. He knew Gaius worried about both of their sakes, and he found himself desperately wishing he could reassure him that everything would be okay. But if he were telling the truth, he wasn’t even sure he could promise that. 

Merlin followed Arthur as he walked with a newfound purpose towards the council room where they're hoping Uther will be, drawing up plans. As they approach, a pair of guards outside the room order them to stop. 

“I want to speak with my father.” Arthur orders, and the guards look between themselves, clearly uncertain. But before they can respond, the doors to the hall are pulled open and there stands Uther, his face grim and menacing. 

“Arthur,” He says, disapprovingly, and then his eyes flicker over to Merlin, who he looks up and down once, then back to Arthur. “What are you both doing out of the cell?” 

“We need to speak, father.” Arthur declared, his shoulders square and his head held high. 

“There is nothing to speak of.” Uther quips, and then nods at the guard beside him, who proceeds to lunge forward, gripping Merlin’s bicep and starting to try and drag him away. 

“Leave him!” Arthur barks, and conflict flashes over the guard’s face as he looks from Arthur to the king. Uther narrows his eyes at Arthur, clearly intrigued by his passionate outburst, and holds up a placating hand to the guard, who promptly lets go of Merlin’s arm. 

Arthur turns to him, his voice low as he says, “Are you okay?” 

Merlin rubs at the spot where the guard had grabbed him – he was sure he was already bruised – but he nodded his head in confirmation. 

Arthur studies Merlin for a moment longer before slowly turning back to face his father, sucking in a deep breath as though preparing himself for something. “I need to tell you something, father.” Uther tilts his head in query and Merlin feels the ground fall away from him when Arthur says, “Merlin has magic.”

day five prompt: hurt/comfort for: @merthurweek2025

[merthurweek2025]

omg yall are doing such beautiful work!!! i appreciate everyone’s effort and dedication so far—i am loving every second of it.

ive been thinking about doing a year-long thing for next year (WITH MERTHURWEEK2026, TOO) so this account isn’t as dormant for 10 months LOL whatcha think? ORRRR i just reblog merthur stuff? with merthur2026 handle?

what should i do next year with this account?

do the same as always - keep downlow until new fest time

reblog merthur content throughout the year with the fest at the end (as always)*

make a year-long content post-like fest and reblog all year long with tracking**

something else? lmk!!!

Voting ended onDec 28, 2025

*with a tracking tag for reblogging and naming it merthur2026 / making it merthurfest2026 before fest starts

**also with merthur2026 / change for fest season

[mysticwolfshadows]

So I meant to write this fic for MerthurWeek2025, but got to busy and never got past my outline. But I figured I'd share it anyway.

day one (18) - fake/temporary death + angst 

Merlin is put on trial for sorcery, as a new servant claims to have seen him cast a spell on Arthur's armor. Merlin doesn’t deny it.

Arthur is interrupted during training by Uther. 

Uther doesn’t explain, just demands that Arthur put down his sword and let George take Arthur’s armor off. 

Arthur protests, but lets him. 

Uther commands Arthur come to the throne room immediately. 

In the throne room, in private, Uther has a witchfinder look Arthur over. 

Arthur demands answers

Witchfinder claims there is definitely magic on Arthur. Enchanted. 

Uther tells Arthur that Merlin has been accused of sorcery. 

Arthur argues, claims Merlin would never. 

Uther insists, and tell Arthur that Merlin is in the dungeons and will be burnt at the stake immediately for casting enchantments on the crown prince. 

Arthur insists that there must be an explanation, that Merlin would never, and that Merlin deserves a trial. 

Uther submits, but knows that he will have Merlin burnt either way. 

The council is gathered for Merlin’s trial. 

Arthur doesn’t have time to go see Merlin, as Uther keeps him in sight at all times

Merlin is brought up. He’s in Cold Iron. He looks sickly pale. 

He doesn’t meet Arthurs eyes, simply looking at his hands. 

Uther reads the charges. He asks Merlin how he pleads. When Merlin doesn’t respond, he demands an answer again. 

Merlin looks up, looks Uther right in the eyes (making Uther uncomfortable, and says he did enchant Arthur's armor. 

Uproar. Uther is bloodthirsty. He asks what other magic Merlin has committed. 

Merlin, unashamed, lists off all the things of Arthur’s Merlin has enchanted, even saying their spells. 

Uther seeths. He sentences Merlin to the stake. Asks if Merlin has any last words (expecting Merlin to beg for his life) 

Merlin turns to Arthur then, meets his eyes. He raises his hands, palm up towards Arthur, and Arthur thinks Merlin is about to beg, only to see gold fill Merlin’s vision, and Merlin to cast a spell (Druid prayer) 

Uther starts screaming, and Merlin in dragged out. Uther has Arthur locked in his rooms, until they know the ‘sorcerer’ is dead. 

Arhtur paces his rooms

He can see Merlin’s pyre being built from his window

He tries to understand why Merlin would try to curse him

Morgana bullies the guards into letting her enter, and demands to know what Arthur is going to do about this

Arthur, unsure, confesses he cant do anything. 

He and Morgana argue. 

Morgana gets him to confess that he wants to do something. Anything. But Merlin has maybe an hour at most, and Arthur doesn’t know what to do. 

Morgana tries to tell him that thats enough time to do SOMETHING, only to hear Uther’s voice from the window. 

They rush over. Morgana screams as they see Merlin being tied to the stake. 

Uther commands the pyre lit, and right as the fire catches, Merlin looks straight at the window, and Arthur sees his mouth move but cant hear.

Arthur throws himself away from the window, and Morgana turns in tears to scream at him, but is stunned to see him crying 

Arthur thinks he can hear Merlin screaming, and tries to cover his ears, and begs Morgana to leave

She leaves 

A week passes

Arthur can barely sleep, he doesn’t like his new servant, every day feels wrong

He learns what Merlin said while on the pyre (“It’s going to be okay. Look away.”) 

He keeps thinking about Merlin, and mindlessly doing his tasks. 

Uther claims that the fog Arthur is feeling is the magic leaving him. Arthur isn't sure. 

Morgana asks him to eat with her. They are silent most of the night. 

Morgana asks Arthur if anyone told Merlin’s mother. 

Arthur feels guilty, tells her it's unlikely. 

Morgana asks if he will help her and Gwen go see Hunith. Arthur agrees.

Arthur organizes for them to leave Camelot. 

He tells Uther that its for him and Morgana to go on a hunting trip 

Uther acquiesces, thinking a hunting trip would be good for him, but says they must take one knight and be back in two days 

Arthur knows that they’ll be longer than that, but agrees

Arthur, Morgana, Gwen, and Leon 

They go to Ealdor. 

Hunith sees them coming, and immediately knows something is wrong

Arthur cant think of what to say, and Hunith seems to know, and pulls him in for a hug

Arthur cries again, asking her why she would hug him, when it is his fault that Merlin is gone. 

Hunith says that she always knew that Merlin would protect Arthur 

Arthur says Merlin was executed for sorcery. For enchanting Arthurs things. 

Hunith is unsurprised. She tells Arthur that Merlin had been born with magic, and that if Merlin had been putting spells on Arthurs gear, they were for protection. 

Arthur asks how she knows. She says because Merlin loved Arthur so dearly, and would never do anything to harm him. Only keep him safe. “It was his destiny.” 

Arthur asks, and Hunith tells him what she knows about the prophecy. If he wants to know more, he’d have to talk to someone who knows such things. Maybe the dragon under the castle? “There’s a dragon under the castle?!” 

The crew go back to Camelot

Uther is furious they were gone for nearly a week. 

Arthur, filled with determination for find the dragon, says that they had been on the track of a great stag, and had gone further than intended. 

Arthur sneaks to find the dragon in the dungeons

Kilgarah tells Arthur about the prophecy 

Arthur wonders if Merlin only stayed with him because of the prophecy. 

Before he leaves, he asks Kilgarah about Merlin’s spell. Kilgarah tells him its not a spell, but a druidic prayer. It doesn’t do anything, but maybe, if said by Emrys, it will do something

Arthur goes to bed conflicted. 

Uther begins to grow more paranoid. 

Since Merlin was so close to the Heart of Camelot, Uther starts seeing magic everywhere. 

Theres more ‘trials’, Arthur is sent on more patrols, there’s more executions

Arthur, seeing his fathers madness, speaks with Morgana, who is also scared. 

Morgana confesses to Arthur, she thinks she has magic, and what if Uther comes for her next. 

Arthur promises to protect her, but its Gwen that is accused. 

Morgana begs Arthur to help. When he asks what he can do, she says she had a vision, Arthur riding a horse with Gwen, a druid camp, and a sword in a lake.

When Arthur senses shes holding something back, she confesses she’s also been having visions of Merlin.

Arthur agrees to help 

Arthur helps Gwen escape

He sneaks into the dungeons, helps Gwen get into the woods, then hides her in a hunters pit. 

He makes false trails leading into the trees, and goes back in time to hear Uther ranting. 

Arthur offers to lead the hunt himself “she could come after Morgana!” Uther agrees. 

Arthur sends the knights on the false trail “split up. Find her. Look all night if you must.” Then doubles back and gets Gwen on his horse. 

He takes her as far as he can, and runs into druids. He thinks about Morgana’s dream and asks about a sword and a lake

The leader, confused, mentions that the Lake of Avolon is supposedly where the Lady of the Lake guards the holy sword Excalibur

Arthur thanks him, and leaves Gwen with them and heads towards the lake. 

Arthur reaches the lake in the dead of night. 

Freya reveals herself, Arthur draws his sword. Tells her he was expecting someone else

She explains they have met before, and that her death at his hand has ascended her to godhood. After she had been put in the lake. 

Arthur asks if ‘Emrys’ is a god, and if he will return. 

Freya smiles knowingly, but dosn’t answer. Arthur takes that as a yes. 

She explains that Emrys entrusted her with a weapon, one steeped in Dragon Fire, that can slay the wickedness that holds onto Uther’s soul 

Arthur asks if that implies Uther is cursed. 

Freya corrects him that it was Uther’s own actions that made it so. A wickedness that strong, especially one steeped in the blood of innocent sorcerers, could return after death as a spectral plague.

Excalibur will prevent the evil in Uther’s heart from returning as a ghost

Freya presents Arthur with Excalibur, and Arthur reads the inscription. Overhead, storm clouds start to gather. 

Freya tells Arthur to go, and do what he must. 

Arthur rejoins with the knights and returns to Camelot

Arthur tells his father that he found the sorceress at a lake. That she now lies at the bottom. 

Uther applauds him, and says that Arthur should lead a witch hunter taskforce 

Arthur bows his head, and Uther says his first target is Gaius. 

Arthur asks what happened. Uther says magic books were found in Gaius chambers, and the man has fled. 

Arthur rides out at once, going looking for Gaius. He finds him in Ealdor, 

Gaius confesses he was going to go look for Balinor, the dragonlord. 

Hunith admits that Balinor is Merlin’s father. 

Arthur goes to help Gaius look. 

Balinor refuses at first, before Arthur jumps in, saying that Merlin died for casting protection spells on Arthur, and Arthur refuses to let his loyalty mean nothing. 

They scheme, coming up with the plan for a coup. If Balinor can get to Kilgarah and free him, they can get Kilgarah to help in the attack to take down Uther. 

Gaius asks Arthur if this is really what he wants to do, kill his father, and Arthur very gravely admits that its what must be done. 

Arthur returns to Camelot 

He tells his father that Gaius escaped into Essitir, that he followed, until risking war was to great

Uther calls him a failure. “How can you rule this pestilence ridden kingdom if you can not even kill one sorcerer?!” 

Arthur apologies, and is sent away. 

He finds Lance talking to Leon, saying he needs to get into the castle. 

Arthur catches him before he can mention Merlin’s name, and demands he shut up 

Lance says he had heard a rumor from some druids that someone important in Camelot was dead. Lance thought it might be Arthur and that Merlin might need a friend. 

Arthur fills Lance in, and asks him to be his outside man, and claim that Lance is a young witchfinder that is giving Arthur information 

Lance agrees, and goes on his first task to touch base with Balinor, and speak to the druids

Its been two months since Merlin’s passing. 

Arthur notices that, in the month since Arthur claimed Excalibur, there has been a dark cloud over Camelot. 

As it grows, Arthur realizes that its time. Lance has returned with word from everyone that would join Arthur, as well as a few others (Percival, Gwaine, Elyan)

Arthur and Morgana just have to let them into the castle. 

As the fighting begins, there's a divide between Arthur's knights and Uther’s knights. 

They try to get Balinor to the dungeons, Uther intercepts them. 

Arthur draws Excalibur, muttering “Take me up”, as the first crack of thunder finally breaks the storm.

They fight, rain pelting them. 

Arthur faces his father, but hesitates when he has the chance to kill his father

Uther goes for his own strike, seeing Arthur's weakness. 

A crack of thunder, a lightning strike between them. 

Merlin arrives, hand out, eyes glowing gold, magic personified. 

There's a tense beat, then... The glow fades, 

Merlin looks at the trashed battleground, and exclaims "what happened?! I am NOT cleaning this up!"

Arthur stares, gobsmacked, only to see Uther rage and about to swing. 

Diving in, Arthur deflects the blow, and shouts for Merlin to focus!

Merlin ducks an attack, sliding across the ground and throwing his hand out. Arthurs shield files back to Arthurs arm. 

Merlin says he IS focused. On all the WORK Arthur has saddled him with! 

Uther screams and swings at Arthur. Arthur shouts MERLIN and raises the shield. 

Merlins eyes glow, and then Arthurs shield is glowing, and Uthers sword shatters against it. 

Arthur bashes Uther with his shield, sending Uther sprawling. Arthur raises his sword, but Merlin comes to stand beside him. 

Merlin places a hand on his shoulder, asking if this is how Arthur wants to become king. 

Arthur lowers his weapon, and confesses no. 

Uther tries to attack, but Merlin casts magic, golden chains binding Uther. 

Uther screams obscenities, Arthur watching on in horror. He can’t recognize the father he grew up with. Or, at least, the father he thought he had. 

Merlin, taking pity, speaks in the magic tongue, “Tsak” meaning sleep. 

Uther crumbles, and Arthur sways. Merlin quickly catches Arthur, apologizing, since he’s getting used to the magic being so intense.

Arthur sits on the ground, leaning back with his shoulders on Merlin’s chest. 

He looks up, reaches but not touching Merlin’s cheek. “Are you real?” 

Merlin cups Arthur hand, bringing it to his cheek. “I told you. Everything is going to be okay. You did great, Arthur…” 

“I fought for you. For your memory. The faith you had in me…” 

“I know. And I’m so proud of you…” 

“Merlin?...” 

“Yes?...” 

A pause in their tender moment as Arthur asks if Merlin really came down from the heavens in a lightning strike. Merlin laughs. 

Arthur and the rest gather 

There's a bunch of others gathering, tears, welcoming back. 

They talk about whats next. Merlin says, obviously, Arthur becomes king. 

Someone asks how Merlin survived. Merlin confesses that he technically didn’t. 

Everyone grows quiet, Arthur can’t help but smile, “Even as a god, you still put your foot in your mouth.” 

A roar as they all ask what Arthur means. Arthur just smirks, as Merlin glares. 

Taking pity, Arthur steps forward, telling them to back off. 

Someone asks why Arthur, who is not yet king, can boss them around. 

Arthur tilts his head, smirks at Merlin, and says he is chosen by a god, and he would like to turn in for the night. 

Merlin, going pink, sparks with magic, there's a flash, and suddenly he and Arthur are in Arthurs chambers. 

They have a moment to themselves now. Arthur tells Merlin that he wished Merlin would have fought back. 

Merlin confesses he didn’t want to make Arthur choose between his father and him. If he had known it would drive Uther to madness, maybe he would have. 

Arthur tells Merlin theres a lot to catch him up on, but Merlin shakes his head, saying he was watching Arthur while he was gathering his strength. He knows about Balinor and all that. 

Arthur says no, that he realized something in Merlin’s absence. 

He confesses that he had been holding himself back for to long, that he adores Merlin, and he can’t risk Merlin slipping away again without telling him

Merlin shuts him up with a kiss and calls him a prat.

Anyway, I might come back and actually write this all out in an actual fic, but for now, its all just an outline.

[tehfanglyfish]

If Kisses Were Snowflakes I’d Send You A Blizzard by tehfanglyfish

Rated: T

No Archive Warnings Apply

2050 words of Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin) 

Additional Tags: Timeline What Timeline, Set At Some Point After Arthur Is King, Winter, Snow, Unpredictable Weather, of a sort, Spells Gone Wrong Gone Right, Pining Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Merlin’s Magic Revealed (Merlin), Getting Together, Kissing, Dorks in Love 

Summary: It started with a snowflake, which wasn’t all that odd considering it was early winter. What made the snowflake noteworthy was that there wasn’t a cloud in the sky.

Written for @merthurweek2025 Day 4 Prompt: Spells Gone Awry