#merlin x reader

[lovelyflower23]

Merlin BBC Works

incorrect quotes [01]

[imaginingsofotherworlds]

Gwaine x Reader: Worthy

Synopsis: Gwaine has no shortage of callers. How could you compete?

Today was the day. You were finally going to do it. You were going to tell him. You and Gwaine were already close, but you had been hiding your feelings for so long. It was getting exhausting, and you honestly couldn't take the secrets anymore. You were going to do it, but you still needed a confidence boost.

Which is where your best friend came in. When you arrived at her cottage, she was admiring herself in front of her mirror. You noted she was wearing one of her nicer gowns, and a flower crown was perched on top of her head.

"Wow!" You exclaimed. "What's the occasion?" You asked. She spun around.

"Y/N! You think it looks nice?"

"Of course it does, why are you all dressed up?" You asked again.

"I'm going to make my move today." She proclaimed. "I'm going to tell my crush I like him!" She suddenly looked nervous. "I hope he accepts it."

"Dressed like that? Of course he will!" You assured her. "Who is it? I don't think you've told me about any boys you fancy."

"He's a knight," She said, fiddling with her skirts. You were a handmaid for Queen Guinevere, so you probably knew him. You told your friend as such. "Maybe you do! He's a member of the Round Table. His name is Gwaine.”

Fuck.

"Oh!" You said cheerily, plastering a fake smile on your face. "No, I don't think I recognize that name," You lied. The bell tower chimed.

"Is that the time?! I better get going. Wish me luck!" She breezed by you and out the door.

"Good luck." You whispered to the empty room. You quietly left your friend's house, blowing out the candle and locking the door, knowing she had a habit of being forgetful. As you slowly made your way back to the castle you continued to think about what you had been planning. You scoffed to yourself. You may be a little biased, but your friend was gorgeous. And you were... you. If you had told your friend about what you wanted to do, you know she would've been gracious and stepped aside. Which wasn't fair to her. And after all, she had a better chance than you did. Why would you bother sharing your feelings when you were almost certain the response would be negative?

"Hey Y/N!" You turned around to see Gwaine jogging to catch up to you. Speak of the devil.

"Hey Gwaine," You smiled. "Have you seen F/N yet? She's looking for you."

"That's actually why I'm here." You raised an eyebrow. "I know she's going to ask me to court her, and I was wondering if you could let her down for me?"

"Oh yeah?" You said, trying to keep your tone light and teasing. "Need a break from making constant rejections?"

"Yeah," Gwaine said, missing the sarcasm in your tone. "Yesterday I had to turn someone down and it didn't go well. I just need a break." You schooled your expression into remaining neutral.

"Okay, I'll let her know."

"You're a peach!" He kissed your cheek, causing you to freeze. He ran off, waving to you over his shoulder. While the kiss made you feel all warm and fuzzy, his words quickly pulled you back down to earth. If Gwaine was constantly rejecting people desperate to court him, how could you ever think you would be successful? You noticed your friend in the courtyard, looking around for her would-be beau. As her face fell as you delivered the news, it strengthened your resolve.

You were never going to tell Gwaine your feelings.

...

A few weeks had passed and the pain in your heart had dulled to nothing more than an ache.

A constant ache.

That was always there.

You had told your friend what Gwaine had relayed to you. She had been disappointed, but had bounced back relatively quickly.

Unlike you.

You sighed to yourself as you finished setting the head table for the banquet. As you turned, you bumped into a serving boy. You both let out a grunt. He managed to steady the pile of plates, but you landed on your backside.

"Sorry about that!" He apologized, setting the plates on the table and offering you his hand.

"It's okay, I should've been watching where I was going." You looked at the massive pile of plates. "I can help you if you'd like."

"Sure, that would be great." He split the pile of plates ad handed you half. "You start on that side of the table and I'll do this side." He thought for a moment. "My name is Jonathan, by the way."

"Y/N. Nice to meet you," You smiled. You made light conversation as you both worked your ways down the table. He was funnier than you expected, and you found your sides hurting by the time you made it to the other end of the table.

"I can't believe I haven't met you before. Where do you work?"

"I'm a lady in waiting for the Queen." You explained.

"That would make sense. I work in the kitchens." You nodded. A brief moment of silence passed.

"Well, I should probably see if Her Majesty needs me for anything. It was nice to meet you." You turned to leave.

"Wait!" You turned back to Jonathan. "...Are you free tomorrow?" He asked.

"Yeah," You said. He rubbed the back of his neck bashfully.

"Well, chef wants me to go into the woods and gather some berries. And I was wondering if you wanted to come?"

Maybe this was just what you needed to get over Gwaine. Any time you weren't working was spent at home by yourself. And Jonathan seemed like a nice guy. You weren't going to stay young forever either. You made up your mind.

"I'd love to," You smiled.

"Love to what?" A new voice asked. You turned to see Gwaine striding towards the two of you with a peculiar look on his face.

"Oh, hi Gwaine." You greeted him, trying to stay neutral. "I was just telling Jonathan here I would love to go and gather berries with him tomorrow." Gwaine looked between the two of you and nodded.

"Sounds fun." You let out the breath you didn't realize you were holding. "When are we leaving."

"What?"

"Berry picking. What time are we leaving?"

"We?" Jonathan asked.

"Of course, the Queen's lady in waiting needs an escort. One with," He looked Jonathan up and down. "Combat experience."

"What are you talking about, Gwaine?" You asked. "I go into town alone all the time."

"This is different," He insisted.

"How in the hell—"

"Y/N it's fine." Jonathan interrupted you. "We can still have fun, and we'll be able to collect more fruit with three of us."

"If you're okay with it, then fine." You told him.

"We'll leave at nine tomorrow morning," Jonathan told the both of you. "I need to get back to the kitchen. I'll see you later." He grinned, and you found yourself smiling in return. You turned to speak to Gwaine, who was glaring in the direction Jonathan had gone.

"Since when do I need an escort?" You questioned, putting your hands on your hips.

"New policy." He said simply.

"Since when?"

"Since you decided to go off into the woods with some guy you just met."

"I'm a big girl Gwaine. I can look after myself. And he's not like that," You added. "You know as well as I do the screening processes for servants. God knows how many close calls we've had before we had them."

"...Well still." Gwaine persisted. "I'd rather come along. Just to be sure."

"Fine." You said. "Just this once."

"Hopefully this only happens once." Gwaine grumbled as you turned to walk away.

"What was that?" You said.

"Nothing!"

...

"This is nice," Jonathan said as you walked along the forest. "You, me, and your escort."

"I know, I'm sorry about this. I tried to talk him out of it but he insisted." You said.

"It's fine Y/N, I can understand wanting to look out for your friends. Hopefully this puts his mind at rest." He assured you as you stopped by a bush to gather some berries.

"Hey Y/N!" Gwaine shouted. You and Jonathan shared a look, before you straightened up and turned around.

Gwaine was up in the branches of an apple tree, straining to reach a few fruits. "What the hell are you doing?" You shrieked. "Get down before you hurt yourself!"

"I'm a knight, Y/N! I can take care of myself!" The grin was quickly wiped off this face as the branch below him began to creak. "Oh shi—" The branch broke and he plummeted to the ground. You and Jonathan raced to where Gwaine lay crumpled on the ground. He sat up, brushing twigs and leaves off of him.

"Are you alright?" You asked. He smiled, and held out his hand.

Sitting in the palm of his hand was a shiny red apple. "For you, my lady," He said in a posh accent.

"...Are you serious right now?" You asked, dumbfounded. "You almost broke your neck for an apple?"

"...Yes?"

"...I'm only taking this so your near death experience wasn't for nothing." You grumbled, swiping the apple and pocketing it. Jonathan offered a hand to help Gwaine up, which he ignored. The three of you walked back to your baskets and picked the back up. The clock tower chimed in the distance.

"That's our cue." Jonathan said. Gwaine snatched your basket out of your hand, ignoring your demands to return it and insisting he would carry it for you. You and Jonathan shared a glance, but said nothing as you made your way back to the castle. After dropping the berries off in the kitchen with Jonathan, you began making your way up to Queen Guinevere's room to help her get ready for the banquet. As you climbed the winding stairs, you heard footsteps rushing up behind you. You turned to see Gwaine jogging towards you.

"Today was fun, wasn't it?" He remarked as he fell into step beside you.

"Yeah," You answered, not trusting yourself to say more than what was strictly necessary.

"Will you be coming to the banquet tonight?"

"No," Gwaine stopped and grasped your arm lightly.

"Hey." He began. "Did I do something?" He asked you.

"Of course not, I just won't have time to attend tonight." A total lie, Gwen had encouraged you to attend, but you didn't want to spend the night watching Gwaine work the room.

"Why not?" He asked.

"I'm sorry?" You asked.

"What do you need to get done? I can help you." He offered.

"Oh no, that's not necessary." You waved him off. "You have a much harder job than mine, you should take this time to relax." Realizing he wasn't going to budge, you sighed. "I'll try and get things done quickly so I can at least make it for part of it." You conceded. Gwaine visibly brightened.

"Deal. He squeezed your arm before releasing you and heading back in the direction you both came from.

Well shit. Now you had to find things to do so you weren't a total liar. You thought for a moment, but then you remembered.

Jonathan probably needed help cleaning the berries you gathered. You changed course and headed to the kitchen.

You ducked under the arm of one of the chefs a he carried a large tray of buns and found Jonathan at a table near the back of the room. He was surrounded by bowls of fruit, and was painstakingly washing them. "Need some help?" He looked up and smiled.

"Y/N!" He scooted over on the bench. "Sure, that'd be great." You sat down next to him and began washing the fruits.

"So has Gwaine asked you out yet?" Jonathan suddenly asked. You nearly dropped the fruit.

"What?!" You all but shrieked.

"Well, after today's display, I thought he was, I dunno, staking a claim?" Jonathan continued.

"Gwaine? And me?" You said. "Absolutely not." You laughed it off, ignoring the pang of sadness.

"Really?"

"Really." You confirmed.

"Well, then would it be to forward of me if I asked you out?" Jonathan asked hopefully. "I was thinking when I'm done my chores we could go to the banquet."

In all honesty, you weren't sure if you were emotionally ready, but perhaps you needed to force yourself to take that next step. After all, you couldn't spend your entire life pining after someone who didn't feel the same. You deserved someone who truly wanted you.

"I'd love to," You said with a soft smile, wondering if you made the right choice.

...

You were standing in front of your mirror a couple hours later, adjusting the floral crown perched on top of your head. Just as you decided you were satisfied with your appearance, you heard a knock. You opened the door, expecting to see Jonathan on the other side.

"Oh. Hi, Gwaine." You said awkwardly. "Wow," Gwaine answered with a grin. "You look amazing. I was coming to ask if you'd be able to make it tonight." He offered his arm. "Shall we?"

"Um, yeah, Jonathan and I decided to go after we finished our chores." You explained, trying to be subtle. With the mention of Jonathan, Gwaine's face visibly darkened.

"Listen, Y/N. I know he's your friend, but I am too. I don't think he's good for you." You stared at him incredulously.

"I beg your pardon?”

"He won't be the person you deserve!"

"How do you know what I deserve, Gwaine?" You said, wanting to be over with the conversation. When he didn't answer right away, you shouldered past him. A hand on your wrist stopped you.

"Because I want to be the one you turn to!" He suddenly shouted. "I want to be the one you track down when you get good news, and the one you run to when you just need a break. I want to be the person you can trust, and I want to be the one to protect you. I want you to be on my arm at every ball, and I want to be babied by you when I do something stupid. Don't you see? He's not the man for you, because I want it to be me!" He was out of breath after his outburst.

The only response you could come up with was, "Why?"

"What?"

"Why me?" You repeated. Gwaine just stared at you. "Come on Gwaine, it's no secret that you're popular. And your callers are stunning. How can I compete with that?" You looked down at your slippers. A hand cupped your cheek and tilted your face up. A pair of lips delicately covered yours. You found yourself melting into it, fingers coming to rest on Gwaine's chest. When you pulled apart, Gwaine's lips ghosted over your cheek and made their way to your ear.

"Because you see me for me. Because all I could think of when you were with him is how much I wanted to be the one you smiled at. Because this is all I've wanted to do since we got back from the forest." He pressed a kiss to your earlobe. "I've felt this way for so long, but when I saw the two of you getting close I couldn't take it anymore. Please, tell me you feel the same." He all but begged.

"Of course I do," Gwaine's face lit up and he tugged you even closer. "I've felt this way for a long time too. I just never thought I was worthy."

"Oh, Y/N." Gwaine chuckled as he kissed the side of your head. "I'm the one who needs to be worthy of you.

[imaginingsofotherworlds]

Being Morgana’s Sister Would Involve…

- Whether you're older or younger, the two of you are inseparable.

- You share a room, despite Uther telling you dozens of times that there are other rooms available.

- Sleeping in the same bed when Morgana has a nightmare.

- Going on rides together and having picnics in a meadow

- Being each other's escape plan when an unwanted suitor approaches

- Doing each others hair and makeup

- Having a sleepover with Gwen and Merlin, and spending the whole night talking

- Uther having to seat you apart during tournaments or banquets because you just spend the entire time roasting guests.

- As sisters often do, you bicker, but actual fights aren't common. However, when you do fight, it will take a couple hours to fully reconcile

- When Morgana leaves with Morgause, you're furious. How dare your sister leave you behind?

- When she finally returns, even in your anger, you can see something is different. So you corner her and tell her so.

- She tells you everything. About her magic, about Morgause, about Uther's lies.

- She asks you to join her.

- "I always thought things were too boring around here."

- Camelot never knows what hits it.

[imaginingsofotherworlds]

Merlin x Chubby!Reader: Beautiful

Synopsis: You’ve heard the new serving boy is making quite the impression.

"Did you hear what happened in the training grounds today?" Gwen asked you as you both scrubbed laundry by the fountain.

"No," You replied, looking up. "What happened?"

"Gaius has a new assistant, and the first thing he did was pick a fight with Prince Arthur." You dropped the tunic you were washing as your burst into laughter.

"That is the best thing I've ever heard!" You crowed. Gwen looked at you like you grew a second head.

"You shouldn't joke about this, Y/N!"

"Why not? It's about time someone put the prince in his place." You picked up your tunic and began scrubbing at it again. "I'd love to meet the guy who took Prince Arthur down a notch."

"You're in luck then; I can introduce you if you want." Gwen said. Before you answer, she was waving at someone behind you. "Hey, Merlin!" You turned around to see a boy with dark hair and a blue shirt walking towards you. "Merlin, this is Y/N. For reasons I can't understand, she thinks what you did with Arthur was hilarious. You two should get along just fine." You offered your hand, and Merlin shook it.

"Nice to meet you, Merlin."

"You too."

And thus began a beautiful friendship.

...

You were folding laundry in Arthur's room when Merlin came barrelling in and dove under the bed.

Arthur came in seconds after Merlin's feet vanished under the bed. "Where is he?" Arthur demanded. "I saw him come in here!" You balked as you tried to come up with an answer, but luckily you didn't have to. The door to Arthur's chamber slammed shut seemingly by itself. Arthur spun around and ran towards the door. He wrenched it open and took off down the hallway, yelling for Merlin. You laughed to yourself as you resumed folding laundry. Merlin pulled himself out from under the bed with a grunt.

"One of these days, you're going to run out of luck, Merlin." He sat down on the bed, watching as you worked.

"You're probably right, but I don't have to worry about that right now." You shook your head in exasperation, but a smile pulled at your lips. You picked up your pile of folded laundry and carried it over to the armoire. After putting the laundry away, you glanced out the window overlooking the courtyard.

"You better find somewhere else to hide; he's coming back up." You commented as Arthur all but stomped up the stairs.

"See?" Merlin said from right behind you, causing you to jump. "Who needs luck when I have you?" You rolled your eyes. Merlin kissed your cheek and took off running. You remained frozen in spot, raising a dazed hand to your cheek.

"Why don't you tell him?" You jumped again as Gwen strode in. You had to stop yourself from curtseying to your friend or else you'd be scolded.

"Tell who what?" You replied innocently. Gwen rolled her eyes.

"Please; it's obvious you like Merlin. Why don't you just tell him?" Your shoulders slumped.

"I have no idea how he feels about me." You answered honestly. "I don't want to ruin our friendship for something that might happen. And besides," You gestured to yourself. "I'm not exactly the ideal woman." Gwen sighed.

"Y/N. Don't start with this again." She put her hands on her hips.

"It's true though. I'm not what men look for. I think I'm beautiful, but it took me a long time to honestly believe that, and I know others don't think I'm pretty. Why would I take that risk?"

"We both know Merlin's not that shallow." Gwen argued.

"He's been with people like me before?"

"Well, no, but—"

"Then you can't know for sure. I appreciate what you're doing Gwen, but I think it's better if things stay the same." You took your empty laundry basket and brushed past Gwen before she could answer.

...

You had just finishing cleaning your cup and plate when a knock sounded on your door. You wiped your hands on your apron as you went to open it. "Hi, Gwen." You greeted.

"Hi, Y/N. Arthur invited me on a bonfire with his knights and Merlin, and I was wondering if you wanted to join us? I think it would be more fun if I had another girl to talk to." Gwen asked.

"Sure, that sounds fun," You said as you grabbed your cloak off of its hook. You swung it over your shoulders and locked your door behind you. "Where are we headed?"

"Just to the training grounds, Arthur didn't want to go too far." You nodded as you made your way to said training grounds. You could see the glow of the fire as you got closer, but surprisingly couldn't hear the normally rambunctious group.

And as your turned the corner you found out why. Nobody was there. There was a fire, but next to it was a small table with fruits and cookies on it. You were horrified. "Oh no." You planted your feet firmly in the ground. "No, no, no, no." Gwen pulled your arm and continued to approach the table. "I'm going to kill you." You said. "Arrest me for treason, because I am going to kill you."

"I'm sorry for lying, Y/N, but you wouldn't have come if I didn't."

"You're right!"

"Okay, I deserved that. But you're here now. Just give it a chance, okay?" She batted her eyelashes. "For me."

"...Fine." Gwen beamed as she sat you down in a chair. Now that the two of you were done arguing, you could hear two men arguing.

Well, one man was arguing. The other was just dragging him along. "You don't understand, I can't say anything it would ruin our—" Merlin stopped talking as he and Arthur rounded the corner. He stared at you wide eyed as Arthur dragged him closer and dropped him unceremoniously into the seat across from you.

"Now. You two are going to sit here, have a lovely time, and get this all cleared up, because the tension is killing us." Gwen said, fixing you both with her most stern gaze. You both gulped and nodded. "Good." She nodded, satisfied. Without a word, Arthur offered her his arm and they left the two of you alone to share in an awkward silence.

"I am so sorry about all of this," You said at last. Merlin's eyebrows raised in surprise.

"You're sorry? This is my fault." He answered. Now it was your turn to be confused. Seeing your face, Merlin elaborated. "I thought I could trust Arthur with a secret, but apparently not." You laughed softly.

"I thought I could trust Gwen, but I was wrong too. I'm this close to moving away to the middle of the woods," You said, holding up your fingers to show how done you were. Merlin laughed.

"Okay, if they want us to talk, we might as well cut to the chase. On three, we both say the reason they made us come out here."

"Can't we just tell them we talked?" You asked, trying to remain calm.

"No, I don't think we can." Merlin said. "Right, Arthur?"

"Right!" Came a muffled voice from the bushes.

"Get out of here!" You shouted. You turned back to Merlin and sighed in exasperation. "Alright fine, let's get this over with then." Merlin frowned.

"You don't have to be nervous, Y/N. If anything, I think I should be the one freaking out." You nodded, but it didn't help. "Okay, on three. One, two, three!"

"I want to be more than friends!"

"Can I court you?" You both blinked in surprise at what the other said.

"Wait what?" You said. "You want to court me?"

"Yeah," Merlin grinned. "And I have to say it'll be much easier now that I know the feeling is mutual."

"But," You sputtered. "Why me?"

"Why you? Y/N, look at yourself!" Merlin countered. "You're kind, you're smart, you're hardworking, and you're beautiful!"

"...You think I'm beautiful?" You asked softly. Merlin gaped at you.

"Y/N, you're stunning!" He exclaimed. Then he grew serious as something dawned on him. "Wait. Is that why you were so nervous to say why we were here? You thought I wouldn't think you're beautiful?" You didn't speak, but that answered his question. "Oh, Y/N." He breathed. He pulled you up from the table. "You'll always be beautiful to me."

[imaginingsofotherworlds]

Mordred x Reader: Courtship

Synopsis: It’s a group effort.

"This is painful." Merlin said to Gwen as they sat watching the knights train.

"What is?" Merlin gestured to where Mordred was sat, waiting for his turn in the arena. It was obvious his thoughts were somewhere else, however.

"He's been mooning over Y/N since the day they met, and I'm sick of it!" Gwen laughed.

"I know what you mean. Y/N's been distracted at work lately, and I only just got her to tell me why. She's head over heels for him too, but she's convinced it's one sided."

"So is he!" Merlin shouted exasperatedly, drawing the gazes of a few knights. He smiled sheepishly, but returned to his conversation with Gwen. "I'm at the end of my rope."

"I agree. Someone should really do something about it." She said innocently. Merlin looked at her.

"What are you planning?" She smiled slyly, and beckoned him to follow as she began to make her way back to the castle.

"Something that will benefit all parties involved."

...

"Y/N?" Queen Guinevere called you from where she was reading a book. You arranged the flowers in the vase with a final touch and quickly made your way over. She nodded her head towards the window. "Is my husband and his knights still training?" You looked out the window and saw the red blobs on the training field.

"Yes, Your Highness."

"Would you be a dear and take some water down for them? I'd go myself but I promised to help in the kitchens this evening."

"Of course, Your Highness." You walked with Guinevere down to the kitchens, and parted ways as you continued to the training grounds.

"Y/N!" Gwaine shouted as soon as he saw you. "How kind of you to grace us with your presence!" You grinned as you waved.

"I'm just here to refill the water skeins." You motioned to the large wicker basket. You circled the arena until you were confident you had all of the vessels. You turned to make your way to the well.

"Y/N!" Arthur called.

"Yes, Your Highness?" You turned and curtseyed.

"Those skeins will be heavy to carry back. Take Mordred with you." Your heart shot into your throat.

"Thank you, but I should be alright."

"It's fine!" Mordred shouted, getting up and jogging over to you. He practically snatched the basket out of your hands, shooting you a sheepish smile.

"Um, okay." You practically squeaked. As Mordred tried to remain calm, and you focused on remembering to breathe, Arthur flashed a thumbs up to his wife, who was watching from her window.

You returned twenty minutes later, each of you holding onto a handle of the basket. You had a soft smile on your face, while Mordred was trying and failing to hide a massive grin. You wordlessly handed out the skeins to each knight, saving Mordred's for last. You handed him his, making sure your fingers grazed each other, before sheepishly ducking your head and all but running back to the castle. Mordred watched your retreating form with a dreamy smile, before turning back and noticing that his friends were all watching him expectantly. The smile was wiped from his face, and he reached for his sword.

"Alright. Who's first?"

...

"Well it kind of worked," Merlin commented as he and Gwen watched your interaction from the window. "Now what?”

"Now we move onto phase two." Gwen said.

"Phase two?"

"We have a ball tonight, didn't you forget?" Gwen turned to her bed, where her gown for the ball was laid out.

Next to it was a second gown, waiting to be debuted.

...

You rushed back to Guinevere's chambers as fast as you could. You were well aware of the event this evening and you knew that you had to prepare the Queen as fast as you could.

You practically ripped the door open as you ran in, but quickly skidded to a halt.

Queen Guinevere was fully dressed and ready for the ball.

"I'm so sorry I'm late, Your Highness, it won't happen again!" You apologized frantically. She laughed and held out her hands.

"It's alright, Y/N." She laughed. "I asked for Rowena to help me ahead of time." You cocked your head to the side in confusion. "You've been so wonderful to me over the years, I wanted to repay you." She stepped to the side, and you let out a breath you didn't know you were holding.

A gown in your size was laying on the bed, the fabric your favorite color. "I don't understand," You said, not daring to hope.

"Like I said, you've been a lifesaver to me. I want you to be able to have fun instead of constantly worrying after me."

"I..." You searched for the right words. "Thank you, Your Highness." You managed to say at last. She waved away your gratitude.

"You don't need to thank me." She clapped her hands together. "Now, let's get you ready!"

...

The knights were all standing at attention as Arthur slowly made his way down the line, adjusting a cape here, brushing some lint off there. "Now men," He began. "This is a party, and I encourage you all to enjoy yourselves. However with that being said, you are still Knights of Camelot, and I expect you to wear that honour with pride and do nothing to disgrace the uniform. Is that clear?"

"Yes sir!" The knights responded in unison. Arthur nodded, satisfied. His knights dissipated, but Arthur grasped Mordred by the arm as he went to leave the barracks.

"Sire?"

"Try to enjoy yourself, Mordred. It wouldn't do for a Knight to be seen moping during a party."

"Yes Sire." Mordred said robotically. Parties had never been his thing, but he knew how important it was to set an example for the people. It felt like there was a crisis almost every week, so it was important to present a confident air for the people under the King's protection. He followed Arthur out of the armory and up to the ballroom.

...

You skirted the edges of the ballroom as you watched the throng of dancers. You were grateful for what Gwen had done for you, but you had no idea how to act as a partygoer instead of an attendant. After watching the dancers for a few minutes, the music suddenly cut off, and was replaced by the sounds of trumpets. The dance floor was immediately cleared and the large oak doors were opened to reveal the King and Queen, with the King's Guard trailing behind them. The court curtsied and bowed as they passed. You rose as the royals passed and locked eyes with Mordred as he passed. You exchanged sheepish grins and then he was gone, seated at the head table. The party struck up again, and you watched the dancers for a few more minutes. But with the added crowds in the ballroom, the temperature in the room began to rise. The layers of skirts were beginning to make you sweat, so you decided to step outside into the empty hallway. You aimlessly wandered until you found yourself on the roof. Walking to the edge, you leaned on the parapets and looked down at he festivities below. Due to the ball in the castle, the villagers were having a celebration of their own. A maypole was erected in the village square and you could see the dancers in the firelight. On any other normal night you would've been down there. As well-intentioned as she was, you just didn't belong in Gwen's world. Deciding to call it a night, you straightened up and began making your way back to the servant's quarters.

"Leaving already?" You turned around to see Mordred standing behind you. Music was drifting through the door he had left open.

"I guess so." You shrugged. "I'm thankful to Gwen, but I don't belong here." You turned to leave. "Enjoy the rest of your night, Mordred."

"Wait!" You stopped and turned to face him again. He held out his hand.

"One more dance?" You hesitated. Were you really willing to potentially humiliate yourself? Mordred could see you hesitating. "Please?"

Oh, hell. "Just one." You relented, slipping your hand into his. Mordred pulled you into an easy waltz, and for a few moments, you moved silently with the music. Then a thought stuck you. "Wait. Won't His Majesty be upset that you aren't by his side."

"He sent me out here." He replied simply.

"Wait, what?" Mordred cleared his throat.

"It wouldn't do for a Knight to be seen moping during a party." He said in a regal voice. You slapped a hand over your lips, trying not to laugh.

"And are you still moping?"

"The company certainly helps." He said softly. You felt your face grow hot. Mordred extended his arm, sending you with it, and when he pulled you back he tucked you close, his breath hitting your ear. "I do have a question for you, though."

"And what would that be?" You asked. He didn't answer. You pulled back to look at him. "Hey. Whatever it is, you can tell me." You smiled. His nod was the indication that he heard you.

"May I court you?" He asked at last.

"What?" You breathed, certain you had misheard him.

"May I court you, Y/N?" Mordred asked again. The two of you had stopped dancing, and were just standing and holding each other.

"You may," You answered. Mordred's expression turned to one of shocked awe as a small smile began to creep across his lips. "But." You pressed a kiss to his cheek. "You'll have to wait until tomorrow to start." He laughed.

"Deal," He answered as he pulled your mouth to his.

[imaginingsofotherworlds]

Merlin x Reader: Never Forget Me

Synopsis: You thought you’d never see again.

You were twelve when you found out you were being sent away to earn money for your family.

And you were devastated.

You and your best friend of eight years, Merlin, were clutching each other as the carriage driver behind you waited impatiently.

"Don't forget me, okay?" You asked softly into his shoulder. He shook his head against yours.

"Never." He promised. "In fact," He drew back and untied the green neckerchief he wore around his neck. "Take this."

"Merlin, I can't." You protested, pushing his hands back.

"You have to," He said. You reluctantly took the cloth, and in return you took the braided hair tie out of your hair. You used the neckerchief to push it back from your face, and handed him the tie.

"Then this is for you." He swallowed hard, but took the tie.

"Miss, we really must be going." You nodded to the driver, and threw your arms around Merlin one more time.

"I'll miss you," You both said at the same time. You laughed, then drew back and hefted your bag on your shoulder.

"Bye Merlin." You said.

"Bye, Y/N."

...

Many years had passed since that day. You had quickly settled into life as a lady-in-waiting, but you often thought about your home and the people you left behind.

Well, one person in particular, you thought as you tied your green neckerchief into your hair.

You often wondered what had become of Merlin, and whether or not you'd see him again. You always held hope that you would.

Before you could finish your though, the wired bell in your room rang.

You were being summoned by your mistress. You tied off the neckerchief and quickly left your room.

You were accompanying the princess to Camelot, and there was still loads to be done.

You and other servants spent the morning packing carriages and preparing the nobles for travel, and by noon you were on your way.

After two days of travelling, you arrived at the castle well past midnight.

And after you got your lady settled, it was nearly dawn.

You got three hours of sleep before your day started. You considered yourself very lucky that you had formed a real friendship with your mistress, but that didn't mean there wasn't work to be done. There were baths to be drawn, laundry to be washed, and rooms to clean. The day flew by as you helped your lady unpack and dress for the official welcoming banquet.

"So, Y/N." You met your lady's eyes in the mirror as you styled her hair.

"Yes, Milady?"

"Have you met any cute serving boys while here?"

"Unfortunately, no. I've been too busy cleaning up after you," You teased as you brushed her hair. "Have you met any handsome knights?" She laughed.

"I promise you'll be the first to know. But of course, a knight isn't what my father is aiming for." The smile slipped off your face. It was no secret that your king had accepted King Uther's offer to visit in the hopes of securing an alliance.

"Well," You finished arranging her hair. "At least the party should be fun." You tried to stay hopeful as you laid a hand on her shoulder. She reached up and covered your hand with hers.

"At least I know I'll have a friend with me." You both stood in silence for a moment. "Now," She clapped her hands and stood up. "Are you ready?" You nodded. "Then we shouldn't keep them waiting."

...

'Announcing Their Royal Highnesses: King Destrian and Princess Elysande!" The king and princess paused at the entrance, every fiber exuding power. The court bowed, and King Uther stood at the head table. You followed behind the royals as they approached, every inch the meek and mild servant.

As King Uther exchanged pleasantries with King Destrian, you helped your lady settle into her seat. You poured her drink, and served her food, before returning to the edge of the room with the other servants with nothing to do. You watched as the royals sat down to enjoy their meal. Directly to Uther's left was Prince Arthur, who seemed to be deep in conversation with his manservant. You returned your gaze to the ballroom.

You missed the serving boy looking up and doing a double take at the sight of the neckerchief in your hair.

...

You were still standing against the wall, ready to tend to your lady, when you were jostled by a servant hurrying past. You managed to right yourself, but quickly realized there was a slip of paper in your hand. You unfurled it and your heart shot into your throat.

Come to the infirmary after your lady is asleep.

In the roll of paper, you found your hair tie from so long ago.

...

"Goodnight, my lady." You extinguished the candles and shut the door behind you.

Now came the hard part. With bated breath you made your way down to the infirmary, unconsciously fingering the hair tie around your wrist. You stopped outside the door, and after a few moments of hesitation, you knocked.

You heard rapid footsteps, and the door nearly swung off its hinges as it was opened. The serving boy who was tending to Prince Arthur stood before you. He looked as nervous as you felt. He looked first at the tie around your wrist, and the neckerchief in your hair. "Y/N?" He finally asked after a moment of silence. You felt tears spring to your eyes and a grin stretch your face.

"Hello Merlin." He let out a laugh and lunged for you. He embraced you tightly, keeping you close to his chest. He nuzzled your hair, grinning widely. You threw your arms around him and held on just as tight as you tried to hold back tears. After a few moments of just holding each other, Merlin drew back and pressed his forehead to yours.

"I told you I'd never forget you."

[imaginingsofotherworlds]

Having Magic and Dating Merlin Would Involve…

-There's something about Merlin that draws you to him, and he you. Thus, it doesn't take long for friendship to turn into romance.

-Both of you unknowingly protecting the other with magic during battles

-You're together for about half a year or so when you both decide that the other is "the one" and you have to tell each other

-"Y/N, I have something to tell you, but you need to promise that you won't freak out."

-You freak out and tackle-hug him before showing him your own secret

-Sneaking away to do magic together because it's exhausting having to keep it secret all the time

-Being prank masters

-Becoming extra protective of each other due to the magic laws in Camelot

-"As soon as my duty to Arthur is done, we're getting out of here."

"Really? You could leave this all behind?"

"You come before everything, Y/N. I want us to be safe."

-Having some of the best dates ever.

-After Gwen is crowned queen, you leave Camelot for a small farm in Merlin's home village

-Using your magic to do little things for each other just because

-When the time comes, you both use magic to create your rings, and you teach your children that magic is nothing to be ashamed of.

[imaginingsofotherworlds]

Arthur x Reader: Of Courting and Quills

Synopsis: It’s the Crown Prince’s Birthday.

You huffed in discomfort as your lady in waiting tightened your corset. She smiled at you through the mirror in apology.

"The things we do for fashion," You joked. Your maid chuckled as she tied off the corset laces and began to arrange some wildflowers in your hair. After a few moments of peace and quiet, your handmaid stepped back and announced she was finished. You inspected your appearance in the mirror, nodding in approval. Thanking your handmaid and relieving her of her duties, you exited your chambers and made your way towards the noise flowing from the ballroom.

It was Prince Arthur's birthday, and you were one of the many nobles invited to celebrate.

Not that you weren't expecting an invitation.

You and Arthur were old friends, and you considered him one of your closest.

And lately, you were suspecting that you were both moving past friendship into something more... personal. You entered the ballroom and just took in the glittering lights and swirling ballgowns.

"Y/N!" You turned around to see Arthur striding towards you with his arms outstretched. You grinned and moved towards him, laughing when he pulled you close and spun you around. "You came!" You laughed again as he put you back down.

"Of course I came! I couldn't miss the Crown Prince's birthday! Speaking of which," You pulled a small parcel out from behind your skirts. "Happy birthday."

"You shouldn't have, Y/N," Arthur said warmly, taking the parcel from you. You waited for him to open it...

But were left slightly surprised when Arthur simply handed it to a servant. "I can't be playing favourites," He teased. You recovered with a laugh.

"Of course, Your Highness," You curtsied. "I won't keep you from your guests." He smiled gratefully, before disappearing into the crowd.

"He means well," A voice said from behind you. You turned to see Merlin.

"I know." You watched as he kissed the hand of a visiting princess, before saying something that caused the girl to laugh and blush. He offered his arm, and the pair moved to the center of the ballroom, effortlessly joining the other dancers. You watched as the handsome couple spun about, seemingly in a world of their own.

At least, until Arthur caught another lady and twirled her in the place of the first. He continued to make his way around the room, dancing with lady after lady, until you couldn't take it anymore. "I'm going to get some air," You said to Merlin. "Excuse me."

Merlin caught you by the arm. "He hasn't forgotten you, Y/N."

"I know." You smiled softly. "We just want different things." You gently broke from Merlin's grip, and exited the ballroom.

You closed your eyes in bliss as the cool night air washed over you. You sat down on the citadel steps, enjoying the silence and watching the stars. You relished in the solitude, but your thoughts inevitably drifted back to Arthur.

Had you really read the signals wrong? You had thought your friendship was deepening on both sides, but could it have just been hopeful thinking? Could you really stand by and watch as Arthur chose another?

You already had the answer to that question. He was one of your best friends. He would likely never see you the way you saw him, but you'd always be there to support him.

You were so lost in thought that you didn't hear the footsteps approaching you. You jerked in surprise as a cloak was laid over your shoulders. You looked up as Arthur sat down next to you. He was holding your gift in his hands.

He sat next to you while running his fingers over the plume of the feather quill. The feather was red, and dyed in such a way that the crest of Camelot was on the feather. Clay was molded around the shaft of the feather, providing a more comfortable grip. "I was afraid you'd left before I could thank you." Arthur said after a moment.

"I just needed a break from everything." You explained. Arthur nodded.

"Thank you for the quill, it's amazing." He said softly. You smiled.

"Befitting for a King, don't you think?" You quipped. Arthur laughed, and you both fell into another comfortable silence. Then at last, you spoke again. "Not that I don't enjoy your company, but shouldn't you be getting back? I'm sure that there are many people missing the birthday boy, and many more ladies waiting for a dance." Arthur sighed, suddenly seeming tired.

"I don't want to see them." He continued to play with the quill in his hands. "They expect a perfect heir, all the time. It's exhausting." You laid a sympathetic hand on your shoulder. He immediately fell onto your shoulder with a huff. You froze. "You're different though."

"What makes me different from the other ladies?" You asked.

"You aren't throwing yourself at me." You laughed. "I'm serious," Arthur said. "You don't see a title. You see me." He had sat up, but was still inching closer. "You've been there through every hardship and every triumph" His gaze flicked down to your lips, before rising to meet your eyes again. "I...I'd like you to continue to be by my side."

"I'm always going to support you, Arthur." You told him. He shook his head.

"No, not like that." Your brow furrowed in confusion. He looked away, before taking a breath and straightening up. He took both of your hands in his. "Y/N L/N, I would like to court you." Your breath escaped you. "If that's alright with you, of course." You were in shock. He wanted to court you? "Y/N?" Arthur asked nervously.

"Yes," you breathed. He nodded in resignation, before he stiffened and looked at you.

"What did you say?"

"I said yes," You told him. Arthur smiled softly, before cupping your face in his hands and pulling your mouth to his. The noise from the festivities faded into a dull hum, and the two of you were left in your own little world.