#Fic: Agent Emrys

[vikingsong]

WIP Wednesday (8/16/23)

In which spy!Merlin attempts break the Crown Prince out of an interrogation room after accidentally kidnapping said Prince and dumping him, unconscious, in said interrogation room to begin with.

Shifting aside one of the lay-in ceiling panels, Merlin gripped the edges of the frame and flipped down into the room, landing on his feet, silent and catlike.

The Prince jerked back from the table. “Who are you?”

“I’m the one who’s going to get you out of here.”

“And where is here, exactly?” the Prince asked, folding his arms and glancing surreptitiously between the locked door and the open ceiling panel.

Merlin chose his words carefully, admitting to nothing as he trod the line between honesty and insinuation. “I think you already know. You saw some of their handiwork earlier this evening.”

Arthur nodded, just once, and leveled his gaze on Merlin. “That still doesn’t answer my first question. Who are you? More importantly, why should I trust you?”

Impulsively, Merlin threw back the cowl.

“You!” the Prince blurted, taking a step back. “But you did—! Earlier, I thought I saw…” The Prince made several nonsensical hand gestures, and Merlin soon tired of watching him flail.

“No, you weren’t hallucinating.” Merlin pinched the bridge of his nose. “Yes, I have magic—and, yes, magic is real…but I think you figured that part out already, what with the fireballs they were hurling at you.”

The Prince crossed his arms and raised an imperious eyebrow. “Those were rather hard to miss.”

“Rather.” Merlin cleared his throat pointedly and waved a hand at the ceiling. “We need to go.”

“But you have magic.”

“I thought we’d already established that.”

“You could be working with them.”

“I know you don’t trust me, alright?” Merlin grit out between clenched teeth. “But if you want to get out of here alive, you’re going to have to trust me for the next twenty-two minutes.”

“Twenty-two?”

“Twenty-two.”

“That’s oddly precise.”

“It took me sixteen to get in here; getting out will take quite a bit longer with you in tow.”

“I beg your pardon,” the Prince sniffed.

“Then beg.” He allowed himself a moment of satisfaction at the Prince’s shell-shocked stare. Merlin knew if Lance had heard that retort, he’d groan and tell Merlin to ‘touch grass,’ so Merlin simply wouldn’t tell him. Leaping up onto the table, Merlin grasped the edges of the metal ceiling grid on either side of the displaced tile and swung himself up through the gap.

“...You can’t speak to me like that,” the Prince sputtered belatedly.

Merlin stuck his head back through the ceiling to glare at the Prince upside down. “Well, I did. Are you coming or not, your Royal Pratness?”

“Fine,” the Prince snapped. He shrugged off his suit jacket—a jacket that Merlin knew cost more than Merlin’s rather generous salary—and tossed it carelessly over the hard metal chair before pocketing his patriotic cufflinks and rolling up his shirtsleeves. “I can’t believe I’m doing this,” he muttered as he climbed onto the table and hoisted himself through the ceiling gap after Merlin.

Merlin hid a sigh of relief as he slid the tile back into place and led the way into the ventilation shaft. His entire plan hinged on convincing the Prince to trust him, albeit grudgingly. He’d made it past that first hurdle; the rest of the plan should be just fine.

***

It was not fine, Merlin soon discovered. He’d pulled up the front of his dark cowl to cover his nose and mouth, held in place by a handy sticking-spell, as soon as he’d re-entered the air shaft because the Shadow Division desperately needed to have their ducts cleaned. The Prince had no such luxury. He also had a dust allergy.

“Brilliant,” Merlin muttered under his breath as the Prince sneezed for the fourth time in barely thirty seconds. The sound rebounded off the metal, multiplying the echoes through the ventilation system. Merlin glanced back over his shoulder and hissed, “Are you trying to get us caught?”

[princess-of-the-worlds]

Two years after the plot that left his girlfriend Freya dead, con artist and criminal consultant Merlin Emrys has found himself in a burgeoning relationship with the MI5 agent who once arrested him, Arthur Pendragon, and his event planner wife Gwen. But on the eve of Freya's unsolved murder, Merlin's nemesis Morgana le Fay comes knocking and brings with her a proposition — Merlin's help with a treasure hunt, Morgana's for luring out the mastermind of Freya's death.

Yet, as Merlin finds himself working with Morgana, he finds himself risking everything he has built with Arthur and Gwen as well as falling into his alluring criminal past.

master of all, master of none | Art

A collaboration for @aftercamlann After Camlann Big Bang 2023

Story By @princess-of-the-worlds

Art By @aro-tarot

Artwork rating: M

Fic rating: M

Word count: 57K

Relationship: Gwen/Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen/Merlin (Merlin), Gwen/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Merlin/Morgana (Merlin), past Freya/Merlin (Merlin) - Relationship), Gwaine & Merlin (Merlin)

Characters: Merlin (Merlin), Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen (Merlin), Gwaine (Merlin), Morgana (Merlin), Nimueh (Merlin), Leon (Merlin), Elyan (Merlin), Minor Characters

Archive Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Additional Tags: Alternative Universe - White Collar Fusion, Alternate Universe - Modern Setting, Alternate Universe - Criminals, Canon-Typical Violence, Minor Character Death, White Collar Crime, Treasure Hunting, Protective Gwaine (Merlin), Past Freya/Merlin (Merlin), Morally Ambiguous Character, Established Relationship, Polyamory, Power Imbalance, Partner Betrayal, Break Up, Guns, Non-Explicit Sex, Angst with a Happy Ending, After Camlann Big Bang 2023 (Merlin)

[earlgreyinpajamas]

any fics full of crack please 🙏

merthur

Arthur Pendragon, Merlin Emrys, and Gwaine Greene do the Autocomplete Interview by cominupforair

Arthur: Hello! I’m Arthur Pendragon, Camelot’s striker! And this is Merlin -

Gwaine: No, no, this is the wrong order. I should be before Merlin, I’m number 5, Merlin is number 3!

Arthur: (rolls his eyes) Ok, let’s start over. Hi! I’m Arthur Pendragon, Camelot’s striker and - (gestures to Gwaine)

Gwaine: And I’m Gwaine Greene, Camelot’s wing and -

Merlin: And I’m Merlin Emrys, Camelot’s goalkeeper. We are Camelot FC and you’re watching our Autocomplete Interview!

~~~

this au slaps

2. Call It Like It Is by Justalittleobsessed

“How do you…” Arthur wiggles his fingers, like he’s teaching magic to a five-year-old, “conjure the fire?”

“Oh, that’s easy,” Merlin starts, because what the fuck else does he have to do, and Lancelot just looks at him with that stupid look he always does when Merlin’s about to say something particularly stupid- “I call it forth from the deepest pits of hell.”

OR

Everyone may know about Merlin's magic, but nobody knows what he's actually capable of. Merlin decides that this is a great advantage when your boyfriend is an idiot.

~~~

adshadjkf why are they like this dshfakls

3. The Trouble with Hair Care Products by archaeologist_d @archaeologistd

Gwaine was up to his old tricks. Who knew honey could be used for hair?

~~~

you need an account to read thi, but it is WORTH IT

00q

Flirting with Danger by samanthahirr (@samanthahirr)

Bond’s latest mission takes quite a detour when a pair of sexy rival agents ask for his help. Bond is game to assist on their rescue mission…but what will Bond’s new boyfriend Q think of all his flirting?

~~~

you gotta love a classic over the top bond mission

2. Quanker Anustickle Iggywumpus III by reallyneedsalife

James suspects that Q is his soulmate. All he needs is Q's name. He goes about it, however, in a rather roundabout fashion.

~~~

ah bond

3. Harry Potter and the Fucking Audacity by Anyawen , AtoTheBean

An offended hacker dishes up Karmic justice to an outspoken transphobe on Twitter. MI6 and the rest of the world react. ::popcorn::

~~~

one of my fav crack fics of all time

[slantedknitting]

Had a very productive 4-day long weekend! Got about halfway through my @ficreadingchallenge bingo card. 13 fics below, mostly Merlin & Merthur fics.

new (to me) pairing: people we’d be together by lyryk BBC Merlin | featuring Freya/Gwaine | Mature Summary: names of poisons, names of handguns, names of places we’ve been together, names of people we’d be together

lyric title: Feel It In My Fists by thesongistheriver BBC Merlin | Merlin/Arthur | Explicit Summary: Merlin felt strong arms lift him. He wanted to protest, to stay and hear what else Gaius might say, but the knights were already carrying him off the training field, and he sank into oblivion. ~*~ An assassination attempt on Arthur leaves Merlin seriously injured. In fact, he shouldn't survive ... but he does. And that brings a lot of other questions to the fore.

BFFs: The Best Thing by lancelitttle BBC Merlin | featuring Merlin & Gwen | General Audiences Summary: The castle servants have a secret that they won't share with Merlin.

fix-it fic: And Tomorrow by pumpkabitch BBC Merlin | Merlin/Arthur | Teen + Summary: After he dies, Arthur wakes up ten years in the past

future AU: Telekinesis by cassan_astaroth BBC Merlin | Merlin & Arthur | General Audiences Summary: Arthur wasn’t sure what he had expected when he finally met Merlin again, but watching him destroy a whole solar system of planets in a bout of anger certainly wasn’t it. -- In which Arthur gets reincarnated only a few moments before Earth is swallowed by the sun, and has to adjust to a new life in space. He is sure everyone he knew is gone, but are they really?

rarepair: In the Cave by paintedpigeon BBC Merlin | Merlin/Leon | General Audiences Summary: Merlin and Leon cuddle for warmth in a cave full of Uther's knights, and Leon has something he wants to share.

inspired by another fanwork: I will show you how to dance by (currently anon) BBC Merlin | Merlin/Lance | Teen + Summary: For a few weeks now, Merlin had been attracted to a human home. At first, he had strayed in this direction accidentally, following the wind and sounds, only coming close to the property. Then, he had realised to whom this house had once belonged to.

oldest fic in the fandom: Compass by missdeviant Raven Cycle | Gansey/Blue, Adam/Ronan | Mature Summary: It was one thing to see the women of 300 Fox Way bare-breasted in a pagan rite. It was something else entirely to do the same with boys.

author’s oldest fic: Secret Release by fifty_fifty BBC Merlin | solo Merlin | Mature Summary: He didn’t often do this, in truth he tried to do it as little as possible. But sometimes, sometimes… he just had to. He was only human after all. A sheepish smile crossed his lips as he remembered with embarrassment the first and only time he’d attempted it at home in Ealdor. His mother was out at a neighbour’s for the evening. He shook his head, no never inside again. The broken crockery, the carpet of grass, the newly grown tree in the house... Only outside from now on, as far as away as possible from others and only when he was desperate and he had to admit after a day like today, he was desperate.

time travel: Finding the Right Time by Diamond_Raven BBC Merlin | Merlin/Arthur | Mature Summary: Following a hostile takeover of the time travel agency, Agent Arthur Pendragon is left stranded with Agent Merlin Emrys in the distant past. While waiting to be rescued, he and Merlin have to figure out how to live as flatmates in the 20th century and cope with the thought that they’ll never get home again, all while figuring out what the word home really means.

newest fic in the tag of your choice: Day 2 – Heat by EmptyBucketOfFucks BBC Merlin | Merlin/Arthur | Mature (tag of my choice was “wet dream”) Summary: Summer is approaching, and the heat gets to everyone.

small fandom (<1k fics): Lazy Mornings by Geekygirl24 Shades of Magic | Rhy/Alucard | Teen + Summary: Rhy sighed fondly, shaking off the lethargy, reaching over to brush a thumb across his lover’s cheek, easing him awake.

unhappy/bittersweet ending: Fly away, my Merlin by raimosorsa BBC Merlin | Merlin/Arthur | Not Rated Summary: "Fly away, but remember to always come back home."

:)

[hyacinths-recs]

Entirely Unprofessional, by jinkandtherebels (@itwasyummy) (Teen And Up)

Merlin is a secret agent. His ex Arthur is also a secret agent, and hates him. Gwen is a mechanic whose father has been kidnapped by a wealthy arms dealer. Together they might just save the world - if they don’t end up killing each other first. 1960s AU, also known as the “Man From U.N.C.L.E.” fusion.

(Written for the 2016 Aftercamlann Big Bang!)

Surely one of the fics I will come back to as soon as I've got the time. Spy!Merlin gives me life because I hate how they always make him the more fragile one, when in canon he literally killed more people than some of the "bad ones".

[wordsofthefanfic]

“And where, pray tell, did you manage to find a Christmas tree this late?”

“We bought it?” He tried.

“Already decorated?”

“Oh, fine, we took it from the lobby in IKEA,” Gwaine waved his hand dismissively. “But it’s Christmas day, isn’t it? They don’t need it anymore, and I mean they’re hardly going to miss it…”

“So you stole it.” Merlin summed.

“I wouldn’t call it stealing, exactly…”

“Oh? Then what would you call it?”

Gwaine’s eyes twinkled. “An extreme case of window shopping.”

— You Only Live Twice, storyforsomeone

[theemryslegacy]

Adela: Home to Roost [1/2]

Adela: Home to Roost [1/2]

Summary: The familiar Force signature, the familiar voice, familiar features -- recognition settled over her with the subtlety of a sledgehammer: Ardun Kothe, former Mid-Rim Station Chief and her former handler, was here, now, standing before her on the Odessen base, deep in conversation with Theron Shan, Alliance spy and the man who would soon become her brother-in-law.

Hells.

Note: This came about, discussing with friends the spies we’ve encountered in the past, in the TOR storylines, and who we’d like to revisit. Ardun Kothe was one. I thought he would be particularly interesting, given Adela’s rediscovered Force abilities and training -- an aspect that had been suppressed during her interactions with him in the vanilla story.

Posted without beta.

Rounding the corner from the War Room, headed for the Commander’s quarters, Adela Emrys felt the hair on the back of her neck bristle. Something was about to happen. Unlike so many other times, however, there was no chill, no rock settling into the pit of her stomach to warn her of impending trouble. So was it good? Bad? Seeking an answer, she reached tentatively into the Force. She was rewarded with what she could only call a fog -- neither light, nor dark; neither good nor bad. It was an odd feeling, one similar to what she felt when dealing with the Director of Administration, Lana Beniko, but this time the base signature was different, almost... familiar?

She could hear now the rumble of Theron Shan’s voice, the lower octaves resonating off the stone walls of the cavern. At this distance, his words were unintelligible. She did not sense the presence of the Commander -- her own sister -- and an attempt to read Shan through the Force revealed little more than a black hole. So he was intentionally blocking, Adela mused. Then his guest is a Force user he doesn’t entirely trust? She might have theorized the visitor was his mother, save for the simple fact that Satele Shan, for all her imperfections, still shone like a beacon in the Force.

Another male voice emerged as she bounded up the stairs into the quarters. The voice was familiar, too, she thought. She looked up… and stopped. The familiar Force signature, the familiar voice, familiar features -- recognition settled over her with the subtlety of a sledgehammer: Ardun Kothe, former Mid-Rim Station Chief and her former handler, was here, now, standing before her on the Odessen base, deep in conversation with the former Republic spy.

Hells.

Adela blinked, looking to Theron. “My apologies,” she said. “The door was open, and --”

Theron waved it off. “It’s all right. This is someone you should meet, anyway.” A slight smile twitched across his lips. “Adela Emrys,” he began slowly, “I’d like you to meet Ardun Kothe. Chief Kothe, former Imperial Intelligence operative -- and future sister-in-law, Adela Emrys.”

“Just ‘Ardun’ will do for now,” Kothe corrected. He nodded to Adela, brown eyes catching blue for a brief, significant moment. “Pleasure to finally meet you, Agent Emrys. I’ve read about your exploits for a number of years.”

She felt his attempt to sense her out, and his resulting surprise as she both allowed it and he realized she had a very distinct presence in the Force. Then again, her suppressive implants and conditioning had been mostly functional the last time they occupied the same room, some five years ago. Like a good spy, however, his expression revealed nothing.

“Just… ‘Adela,’” she said, following his lead. “Your reputation precedes you, as well. You and your operations team made my life very interesting for a time.”

Kothe allowed an impish grin. “Mission accomplished, then,” he replied with a chuckle.

“It seems Chief Kothe will be our liaison to Director Trant,” Theron explained. There was a hint of amusement to his voice. “The Director needed a direct link, someone he felt he could trust. Kothe ran one of our best and longest-running Imperial sources. Apparently, this qualifies him for the job.”

Adela arched a fine brow. “Access to all three sides would certainly offer a clearer strategic picture… if all sources can be trusted.”

“They can be trusted,” Kothe said. His confidence and sincerity was impossible to miss. It was, however, tinged with more than a little curiosity. That, Adela reasoned, would have to be addressed later… without her future brother-in-law hovering just to her left.

“If you don’t mind, Theron,” the former station chief continued, “we’ll wrap here. I’ve got more than enough to discuss with Marcus, and I’d like to take a little time to relax before I start the trip back.”

Theron nodded. “I’ll make sure you get encrypted copies of the reports before you leave.”

“Perfect.” Kothe looked to Adela. “Join me for a drink? I’d love to hear your side of some of our war stories. I’ve heard all of his.” He jerked a thumb over his shoulder at the former SIS operative.

“Sounds like that could be entertaining,” she replied with a chuckle. “I’ll meet you in the cantina after I finish here?”

“See you there.”

With a nod to her, then Theron, the SIS station chief turned on his heel and departed the room. Adela watched until he disappeared around the corner, then turned her attention back to her future brother-in-law. “I am sorry to interrupt,” she said. “I was looking for Ahn.”

“Ah,” Theron began, “she’s up in the medbay with Doctor Shade.”

“Medbay?” Reaching out across the bond she shared with her twin, she noted a muted sense of frustration and impatience; anything else was murky at best. She couldn’t tell if the weak link was due to her own neglected abilities or an intentional attempt on her sister’s part. “She is all right?”

“Far as I know,” her former counterpart replied. “Doc Shade insisted on checking her out once a quarter, making sure the carbon freeze didn’t do any lasting damage. Since she wouldn’t let Ogurobb near her, I’m glad she’ll listen to someone.”

Adela gave a snort. Former Special Forces medic and now chief medical officer for CorLion, Doctor Margaret Shade could be a force of nature on her own. “After a lifetime dealing with father,” she said, “Maggie is more than equipped to deal with a recalcitrant patient.” She shook her head. “I will check in on her later. For now, I think perhaps I will join Chief Kothe for that drink. Care to join us?”

“Hm?” Theron blinked, refocussing his attention. “Oh, like the man said, he’s more than familiar enough with my war stories. The two of you can compare a few notes for a change.” He shook his head. “I have a few reports I need to get encoded for him before he leaves, anyway.”

Offering a slight smile, the silver-haired agent nodded and turned toward the door. “Then I leave you to it. Try not to work too hard,” she said, teasing.

Shan gave a chuckle as she headed down the steps. “Too late.”

Shaking her head, Adela trotted down the stairs and back into the corridor. She then drew a deep breath and steeled herself for her rendezvous in the cantina.

[knighttimesong]

fic ideas

so found some fic ideas after doing a deep dive into my docs. Anyone feel free to use these, just please remember to tag me if you do! (I may also end up using these one day if the inspo strikes but idk if that would ever happen so I’m sending them out into the universe)

Merlin/Arthur Pendragon - Arthur finds out about Merlin’s magic and banishes him from his kingdom. Years later, Arthur is in trouble and needs to find the sorcerer Emrys to help save him. Merlin is living as a physician in a Druid settlement/camp and is an older, hotter, powerful sorcerer. Merlin grudgingly helps Arthur and old feelings reemerge. 

Stiles Stilinski/Derek Hale - Stiles comes back to Beacon hills with 2 yr old twins, Derek works as a deputy. 

Alina Starkov/Malyen Oretsev- after the war in the orphanage being visited by their friends.  Alina paints on the walls and all the kids love them. There is one baby that was left at the orphanage that is really cute and hangs off the hips of Alina and Mal. Possibly 5+ times old friends visited them. 

Stiles Stilinski/Derek Hale- Stiles is a classically trained ballet dancer. Nobody in the Pack except Scott knows about him being a dancer. One day one of Stiles dancer friends who are also friends with Scott sends Scott a video of Stiles doing something cool dance wise, like a cool routine or tons of pirouettes. The Packs sees. 

Stiles Stilinski/Derek Hale- Stiles is a student at Brakebills University, he has drifted away from the pack and one day the Hale pack is being taken on a tour of campus, they come across Stiles being cool

Stiles Stilinski/Derek Hale- Stiles is a S.H.I.E.L.D agent. He was recruited while in Berkley after hacking into the pentagram or something. The agents have to investigate a supernatural/extraterrestrial/criminal occurrence in Beacon Hills. The Hale/McCall Pack own/work at a diner called Hale’s Diner (or something more cool.) Stiles pulls up to the diner on a Motorbike and does the slow-motion take-off-helmet-and-gloves-hair-flip-cards-his-fingers-through-his-hair-move and the entire pack watch and drool. A fancy car pulls up next to Stiles with two of his agent friends in it. There is also a scene where the Beacon Hills Deputies are at a crime scene, Scott’s FBI dad turns up and goes “I have jurisdiction” and Stiles and his agent buddies turn up and go “Actually I outrank both of you” or something along those lines. 

[vikingsong]

Thank you, @sydneysageivashkov , for the tag! ❤️

Rules: Post the names of all the files in your WIP folder regardless of how non-descriptive or ridiculous. Let people send you an ask with the title that most intrigues them and then post a little snippet of it and/or tell them something about it! And then tag as many people as you have WIPs.

Oh goodness that last step is going to be the hardest. 🤦‍♀️😂

*deep breath* Ok, let’s do this! Original WIPs excluded; this is only the fanfic WIPs. 😬

Individual WIPs:

1. “The Prophecy”

2. “Keep Calm and Let the Admin Assistant Handle It”

3. “Learning Curve”

4. “Promises to Keep”

5. “Reforged” (aka ‘aliens & swords’)

6. May Mental Health Month melee fill

7. “A Coin for the Styx”

8. “Qualified (Arthur writes a resume)”

9. “Darkness Like a Second Skin”

10. “If You Give a Writer a Bingo Card”

11. “Agent Emrys”

12. “Bogged Down in Lies (I Want To Come Clean)”

13. Elyan melee fill

Collab WIPs:

14. Evil Uncle

15. “Mutually Assured Destruction”

16. Knights-Errant band AU

17. “He Never Expected To Be The One Left Behind”

18. [title redacted] <- a friend’s fic that I’m attempting to podfic ☺️

…now I have to tag 18 people 👀

Ok, um, a bunch of lovely people in no particular order:

@trekscribbles @staygold-bebold @fandomsschmandoms @madladyishere @s0mmerspr0ssen @vakarcs @demitimelord42 @leonaesperanza @magiclia16 @moerysworld @diamonds-and-dynamite @midnight-clover @thebiballerina @sincerelyme1297 @skydragon05 @salt-popcorn And of course I can’t mention “Mutually Assured Destruction” and not tag @bronteheart and @dorochas 😉

[earlgreyinpajamas]

merthur fic recs: spy!arthur

1. The Quartermaster Who Loved Him (The Bondverse Remix) by fifty_fifty

Merlin Emrys is a researcher and one of Her Majesty’s best and brightest at MI6 headquarters. His latest tech is a huge hit with the secret service and everything seems to be going swimmingly, until a hot new 00 agent comes along and messes things up royally.

Or how Merlin and Arthur met, and what happened next.

~~~

HELLO I LOVE THE BONDVERSE SO YOU CAN BET YOUR BUTTONS I LOVE THIS FIC. i love the bondverse jargon this author used so much and i adore how sassy merlin is in this fic. it’s a completely different universe, but somehow every character fits in like it’s their original world, so honestly this was just fantastically done.

2. Pendragon, Arthur Pendragon by aoigensou

Arthur Pendragon is a spy specializing in corporate espionage living all his James Bond fantasies. Merlin Emrys is a hot nerd that is messing up Arthur's current mission royally. Written for Kinkalot Challenge 4: Magic Made Them Do It.

~~~

i adore the bond references in this fic and arthur is literally a bond-obsessed child stuck in a grown man’s bond, which is so terribly cute and endearing.

3. License to Thrill by lady_ragnell (@theladyragnell)

Merlin's employees bet him the recipe for the most addictive cocoa in the world that he can't find out what the hot blond who comes into his chocolate shop does for a living within the month. He ends up getting far more than he bargained for.

~~~

this is my favourite fic on this list. it’s super cute and sweet and i love how each and every character is written and characterised in this fic.

[brighter-side-of-the-coin]

Merlin Fic Rec - Halloween Masterlist

In the spirit of the spooky season, here is a (monstrous) list of fics that cover a range of Halloween-themed tropes!

Many of these fics explore darker themes, so please remember to read the tags/archive warnings - stay safe folks!

🎃Horror/Thriller🎃

The Devil's Table by kriadydragon (28k)

Arthur and Gwaine rescue Merlin from the clutches of slave traders only to find themselves trapped in a strange castle whose residents have up and vanished. There's something in the castle that's after them, and to make matters worse, Merlin is already injured and can't use his magic.

The Tomb by kriadydragon (17k)

There's a reason they say the Valley is cursed.

The Wild Hunt by aa_fic

Every year on Samhain, the Wild Hunt terrorises the small Welsh town of Camford. A year after his own father is killed by the Hunt, Arthur is asked to lead a party against it. Merlin Emrys, the ailing recluse who alone escaped the Hunt in the past, may hold the key to Arthur's success in defeating it—or he may be the leader of the Wild Hunt himself. Mystery/suspense, supernatural, Samhain/Halloween, dark romance.

A Dark and Storming Knight by tehfanglyfish (4.9k)

After their horses run off in a torrential downpour, Arthur and Merlin are forced to take shelter in a cold and creepy abandoned house. To make matters worse, Arthur keeps wishing that a sorcerer would show up to light the fire.

The Monster in the Mirror by CaffeinatedFlumadiddle (7.5k)

A strange mirror has made its way into Camelot. With claims of it being enchanted, Arthur is determined to lock it away as soon as possible. However, while knights and lords and servants have all seemed to be shocked and terrified by whatever visions the mirror presented…Merlin doesn’t seem to notice. 

Until he does.

In the Deep, Dark Woods by dante_s_hell  (22k)

Arthur hires a company to provide team building exercises for the employees of Camelot Industries. The urban jungle is more their speed, but they make a go of it, traveling into the woods to bond while communing with Mother Nature. Unfortunately, the trip isn't what they expect and they bond the hard way...by trying to survive.

Tales to Tell in the Dark by mushroomtale, Polomonkey (7.3k)

A Prince stumbles across a beautiful man asleep in a castle...A merman longs for the handsome noble he sees above the waves...One orphan courts another in a town where young men are going missing...Three classic fairytales, given a horror twist.

The House by silence_since_silence (1k)

Merlin is a real estate agent. Arthur buys the two bedroom, one bath, one-level house with the streetlight right out front and just across the road and with the giant rosemary bush that has grown up around the front window like ivy.

🎃Ghosts🎃

Gibraltar May Tumble by shes_gone (24k)

Merlin's life in London is a bit of a mess: his career is trapped somewhere between student and professional, his love life is trapped in a relationship gone sour, and most days he feels physically trapped in the tiny, shared flat he can't afford to move out of—until an unexpected opportunity sends him packing for the coast. There, he meets someone who might be in a even worse fix than he is: Arthur, a Victorian-era sea captain who's trapped, a bit literally, between life and death, and who refuses to leave the house he died in over a hundred years ago.

Lament for the Lost by Clea2011 (21k)

Arthur inherits a crumbling mansion and sets out to restore it to its former glory. But Merlin has been held by a far darker inheritance all his life, and its grip on him tightens when he arrives at Camelot House to work for Arthur.

Resurgam by La_Temperanza (16k)

Merlin can see dead people™, and Arthur's just indirectly invited the entire spirit world. To think, people said this party was going to be boring.

The Ghost of Le Fay House by rotrude (28k)

Lieutenant Arthur Pendragon is wounded in action during the battle of Narvik. Rescued, he's sent to recover in requisitioned manor turned military hospital Le Fay House. His doctor, Merlin Emrys, is new at the job but quite hopeful of doing well... until strange happenings start to plague them both.

The Apartment and Everything That Comes With It by Pendragons Dragonlord (PseudoAuthor) (6k)

The apartment is old. Windows still covered in cobwebs, paint peeling from the walls, the bathroom ceiling covered in mould.

It’s a dump.

It’s perfect.

Apart from the flickering lights.

Nothing Like a Good Ghost Hunt by thecheekydragon (17k)

Merlin and his team are commissioned to investigate the hauntings at the famed Camelot Castle and get more than they bargained for when they find that the paranormal investigation team led by Arthur Pendragon has been commissioned to do the same.

Welcome to Camelot Hotel by schweet_heart (3.9k)

When his Uncle Gaius' old friend needs a favour, Merlin jumps at the chance to rent a flat in the newly refurbished Camelot building at a substantial discount. So what if the previous tenant left in a hurry in the middle of the night? It's not like the place is haunted or anything…

The Washerwoman by schweet_heart (4k)

Her dark eyes held such an aching sorrow that the expression almost stole his breath, and there was something oddly familiar about her, though Merlin was certain he would have remembered if he had seen her before.

Haunted by maarzanna (<1k)

Curious visitors keep turning up at the ruins of Camelot's castle. One of the spirits who haunts the grounds is particularly disgruntled by the disturbances.

Dead And Breakfast by yourrockyspine (4.3k)

After his Mum's demise, Merlin kept her beautifully-maintained B&B up and running.

And though he mostly loves having his mother's ghost nearby, it's some of the other deceased residents that make it exceedingly hard to please his (living) clients.

Flattening by yourrockyspine (2.3k)

A small, fluffy Happy Halloween follow-up to Dead and Breakfast

Arthur takes Merlin to his flat; Morgana's there all ghost-like and obnoxious

The Afterlife by supercalvin (3.1k)

“Hey, what’s your wifi password?” “For the love of God!” Gwen yelled, “Merlin you are dead. You do not need a wifi password.”

🎃Zombies🎃

Land of Ghouls by rotrude (39k)

In a world overrun by flesh-eating ghouls, with the apocalypse as part of his everyday life, smuggler Arthur Pendragon has nothing left to fight for until Finna, the leader of a survivor camp, entrusts him with one life-endangering mission he at first doesn't want to accept: escorting Merlin Emrys, a man who has survived a ghoul bite, to the last medical facility left standing in Great Britain in the hopes he will be key to a cure. Arthur and Merlin start on a quest that could cost them their lives or save mankind.

All the Dead Are Here by Footloose (46k)

There's not much outside Arthur's purview -- eventually, all creatures fall to the Reaper's scythe. It's never personal. It's just his job.

That was true until Arthur ran into the only death he's ever regretted reaping -- Merlin, who is inexplicably alive and well.

But that's not all. There are monsters that exist outside of life and death, and they're spreading like vermin in the city of London. The balance is in jeopardy, and Merlin may be the only one who can help him restore order in the chaos.

It's a Beautiful Night; We're Looking for Something Dumb to Do by flammablehat (<1k)

What's a little political unrest and a lackluster zombie outbreak in the face of True Love, anyway?

World of the Skin Puppets by charmed_seconds (3.5k)

The world was in ruins. Zombies have overtaken Europe and everyone was striving just to live. No matter how callous you get from living in a post-apocalyptic world, one is never ready to face the undead corpse of a loved one.

fixing to die by helloearthlings (3k)

He had put in his blue contacts, covered himself nearly head to toe in cover-up mousse, and still all that Arthur could see in the mirror was decayed yellow eyes and rotting flesh.

Zombies, Run! by supercalvin (1.2k)

It’s the zombie apocalypse. Merlin and Arthur are runners for Camelot Township.

🎃Vampires🎃

Dead of Knight by jsea (43k)

Merlin Emrys, supernatural expert and consultant for the local police, knows that going to the opening night of a vampire bar isn't a good idea, not with anti-vampire sentiments running rampant. So when he draws the eye of the bar's charismatic owner, and the new Master of the City, Arthur Pendragon, he's not exactly pleased.

When a series of murders, seemingly the work of vampires, forces them to work together anyway, Merlin unwittingly finds himself falling in love. Suddenly, the lines between work and love are not as cut and dry as they seem.

Dead Men Tell No Tales by a8csock (ladysockalot) (20k)

As a necromancer Merlin had a duty to the dead, as much as he avoided it. However, Merlin wasn't sure if he was lucky or not to have met a vampire in a cemetery, especially when he was investigating murders perpetrated by a vampire.

A Double Dose of Destiny by Drag0nst0rm (1.6k)

In which Camelot has a vampire problem, and Gwen rather wishes she wasn't the one who was expected to deal with it.

A Warlock's Blood by Lullabylily (8.2k)

People are dying. A vampire is terrorizing Camelot. And this particular vampire has taken an unsavoury interest in Merlin…

Another One Bites the Dust by merlin_the_dragonlord (3.2k)

The vampires have kidnapped Merlin. It's up to Arthur to retrieve his precious watcher.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer AU with slayer!Arthur and watcher!Merlin

Age Ain't Nothing But a Number by Mad_Maudlin (3.7k)

It was all going so well, and then Arthur found out Merlin's secrets. Both of them.

Vârcolac by rotrude (44k)

1740, Young Queen Maria Theresa of Austria sends Hauptmann Arthur Pendrachen and Leutnant Oberarzt Merlin Emryß to Transylvania, currently belonging to the Austrian Crown, with the task of dissuading the locals from believing in legends and myths that are archaic, provincial and frankly absurd. This is the Century of Philosophers, the Age of Enlightment and the state must spread rationality and scientific thinking all around! In short Pendrachen and Emryß are to drive some sense into those credulous peasants who still believe in the undead, also known as vârcolaci, moroi -- vampires.

It all starts to plan, but their journey journey ends up being fraught with less Enlightment and more peril than they'd wagered for.

🎃Monsters (and others)🎃

Skellington by Pasteles, Succulents (3.9k)

((Skellington/Frankenstein AU)) Arthur's been reincarnated in the 18th century when magic is still something punishable by death. But something's wrong, Merlin is no where to be found upon the once and future kings return. Kilgharrah, who has been bound into a human form, takes it upon himself to bring back the powerful sorcerer. In a twist of destiny, Arthur and Merlin meet before Kilgharrah's work is finished.

Through this Wonderland by inktomi (3.5k)

"No," says Merlin. "No. We are not going to Scotland so you can slay a mythical beast that does not exist."

Bumps in the Night by schweet_heart (<1k)

Arthur's back. Merlin's a vampire. The whole destiny thing is a bit anti-climactic, really.

Monster Mash by supercalvin (2.4k)

The ballroom was filled to the brim. On the ground there were the normal crowd of creatures and then flying around the ceiling were the winged clique. Everyone had a drink in their hand as they socialized (Wine, punch, blood, witch’s brew, and brains were all available at the open bar). 

A Modern Pygmalion by supercalvin (1.9k)

Doctor Arthur Pendragon has been working on his theory of reanimation for seven years and now he is ready to try his theory on human flesh.

Monster by supercalvin (1.4k)

Merlin and Arthur are the best pair of hunters on this side of the Atlantic.

Lake Monster Matchmaking by FandomOlde (<1k)

Kilgharrah, mistaken for a mythical lake monster, plays matchmaker for a reincarnated Merlin and Arthur.

With Smoke and Shadow by staymagical (1.2k)

Ever since he can remember, Arthur has had The Sight, a gift that shows him the aura of the supernatural. It's a pain, mainly.

The Wallfahrt Witch by rotrude (14k)

1630s, Counterreformation AU. A solitary traveller coming to a small Upper Austrian village finds shelter with the organ player of the local pilgrimage church. While religious strife is on the rise, the supernatural victims of its violence watch on as a star-crossed love story blooms.

🎃Halloween Fluff🎃

Of Halloween Socks and Poor Timing by orphan_account (1.6k)

No one knew he was wearing silly Halloween socks under his patent leather shoes.

Halloween Knights by bunnysworld (<1k)

Percy might have misunderstood as what they were going to the party this year. 

Stars directing our fates by Camelittle (4.9k)

In which Merlin finds that his destiny is quite literally written in the stars.

Pumpkin Carving by qvicksilvers (<1k)

The first ever Pumpkin Carving Contest has arrived in Camelot, all thanks to Merlin. Will it become an annual event? Judging by the results, probably not.

Pumpkin patch Mayhem by ForTheLoveOfFangirling (<1k)

Merlin drags Arthur to the pumpkin patch. 

To Light the Fires of Winter by Elizabeth (5.6k)

The Druids' mysterious leader, Emrys, has invited King Arthur to their encampment for Samhain.

Eager to solidify their people's alliance, Arthur agrees.

Halloween night by bunnysworld (<1k)

This wasn't their best idea

Suicidal Glasses and the Halloween Goose by giselleslash (3.3k)

Elena has to work Halloween night and Gwaine is smitten by the fact that she’s the worst bartender ever.

for me it's always you by helloearthlings (2k)

“My mum and I watched horror movies together every October when I was a kid,” Merlin said, unfazed by the look on Arthur’s face. “I like them.”

“I get to choose the movies,” Arthur said, not able to just agree without a fight. Merlin, damn him, looked as cheerful as ever as he leaned down to kiss Arthur again before moving away. Arthur missed him the second he was gone, even though he was just going to the kitchen, and it was somehow the most amazing and annoying thing all at once.

Modern Dracula by TsingaDark (3k)

Arthur didn’t believe in supernatural creatures. Nevertheless, he was about eighty-five percent sure that his neighbour was a vampire.

Halloween Story by every1isgay (3.4k)

Arthur always sees Merlin at Gwaine's parties, and he really likes him, though he hasn't asked him out yet. This Halloween, he hopes he can impress Merlin, but does not expect his reaction to Arthur's gory costume.

Away We'll Go by maarzanna (<1k)

The Halloween party at Pendragon's Co. has gotten a bit out of hand, and Arthur is mortified, that is, until Merlin shows up in a tantalizing costume.

Caldron Bubble by maarzanna (<1k)

Arthur does a terrible job at being a supportive boyfriend, and Merlin’s potion gets ruined. It's all Arthur’s fault.

Toward the Darkness by maarzanna (<1k)

A mischievous demon disturbs the Pendragon household.

Don't Kill Me, Kiss Me by safarialuna (2.3k)

Merlin just wants to have a peaceful Halloween. The last thing he expects is to be face-to-face with a towering man who is about to bash his head in with a shovel at a cemetery.

Haunted House by schweet_heart (<1k)

"Dare you to go inside," Arthur said.

Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice by supercalvin (2.2k)

Arthur goes to Gaius Cafe before work and sees a fit runner who stops by every morning.

[emrysandhisking]

Merlin/Merthur Fic Rec Part 1

So I have enjoyed reading some brilliant Merlin inspired fics and here’s a collection of some of my favourites:

-Paint my spirit gold by andiwould (19k)

Arthur’s agreed to come to the druid camp so that he can see this Emrys the prophecy talks about and unite their lands, but Emrys won’t meet him. Instead, Arthur’s been left with this young druid called Merlin that parades around half-naked and smiles too much. At first, Arthur feels as though there’s not much more to him than just that, but later he discovers that he’s been wrong all along and that Emrys has been closer to him than he thought.

- The King of Mars by Ivalee (Chapters 5/5)

As children, the Pendragon siblings were obsessed with the space program. They dreamt of becoming astronauts and one day walking on another planet. Their dream leads them to NASA where the revelation of magic suddenly brings Mars within our reach. The Camelot 1 crew, including both Pendragons and powerful sorcerer, Merlin Emrys, land on Mars, and the world celebrates -- until a Martian storm cuts the mission short and tragedy strikes. Arthur is killed, and Morgana makes the difficult decision to leave her brother's body behind on Mars. His crewmates and the world mourn his loss, until Gwen Smith, a clever engineer at NASA, makes a shocking discovery: Arthur is alive.

His ingenuity and determination will get him far, but will Arthur be able to survive alone on Mars until help arrives?

-A Medieval King Arthur in Cameron’s Court by tuesdaymidnight (26k)

The legends all say that King Arthur will return when Britain needs him most. That's why Merlin is confused when Arthur is awoken in the twenty-first century. The country isn't under attack, the pound remains strong, British artists are topping the Billboard charts, really, the only thing amiss is Merlin's magic. At first, Merlin thinks it's technology interfering with the balance of magic in the world, but with the arrival of Arthur, he's not so sure. When Gwaine and Percival also reappear, together the four men try to find the cause of the magical failure. Eventually they track the problem down to a CEO of an energy industry giant who looks suspiciously like Morgana, and the four old friends are forced to stop her. All the while, Merlin has his hands full with three medieval knights trying to adjust to life in the twenty-first century.

- The Unintentional Wooing Skills of Arthur Pendragon by giselleslash (5k)

Arthur is a master of wooing...if one defines master as ‘a complete and utter tragedy’. Somehow Merlin doesn’t seem to mind all that much.

-A Modern Manservant by Mamalazzer (Chapters 2/2)

A modern magical comedy very loosely based on Ugly Betty. Publishing king Uther Pendragon has had enough of his playboy son seducing every female assistant he has ever had so he hires Merlin, a man he is sure Arthur will never sleep with. Merlin would be more insulted by this fact if he wasn’t so busy trying to juggle his duties, save Arthur's skin from ruthless fashionistas and keep his magic a secret at the same time. Expect appearances by oil-lathered knights, the occasional mad druid, a perverted Will and a mental caretaker who lives in the basement and keeps harping on about coins and destiny.

- Warden (Of the Land) Primal (Of the Sea)  by FrozenMarVel (Chapters 20/20)

Arthur is a half-human, half-atlantean warrior, popularly known as the Aquaman. Following his world saving feat with his fellow League heroes, he does his best to use his natural abilities for the good of humankind. Enter captivating, fierce Merlin, a Prince of the Seas, who insists on Arthur’s help to stop his power hungry half-brother King Mordred from forcefully uniting the oceanic people to conquer the surface world.

The Kingdom of Atlantis needs its one true heir to take the throne, but can Arthur set aside his anger at the people who murdered his Queen Mother for bearing a half-breed? Amid Primordial Creatures, Legendary Weapons and Powerful Sea Sorcerers, Arthur must stop a great war and save everyone, while enduring Merlin’s irresistible self.

Easier said than done.

- Give the Dragon a Chilli by supercalvin (46k)

Aithusa might have been no bigger than a house cat but she was still a dragon. That meant wings, claws, and her own personal hoard, which in Aithusa’s case included soft pillows, fluffy socks, and much to Merlin’s chagrin, stolen pants. When Merlin found out that his winged ward had stolen a rather considerable pile of clothing for her hoard, he thought that it would be the end of any kind of friendship with his neighbour. But when Merlin met the victim of Aithusa’s burglary, he was pleasantly surprised to find Arthur, a man who had never in his life seen a dragon let alone a burglarizing one, and Cavall, a curious German Shepherd puppy who was quick to befriend the little white dragon. From there, it was only the beginning.

- A (Marginally Secret) Sorcerer on Her Majesty’s (Marginally Secret) Service...Plus a prat of a Field Agent by Phoenix_Rose  (Series)

Merlin Myrddin is our definitely, entirely, completely secret Sorcerer.

Arthur Pendragon is out definitely, entirely, completely magic-hating field agent.

Merlin definitely doesn’t call Arthur ‘Prince’ as a pet name (it’s a codename).

Arthur definitely doesn’t call Merlin ‘Emrys’ because he’s in awe of his power in any way.

And most importantly of all - they are definitely not dating against protocol, Uther Pendragon’s wishes, and the logic of every person in Great Britain.

-We duel at dawn by clotpolesonly (2k)

Merlin was squinting at him, concentrating very hard. Arthur waited for him to say whatever it was he was thinking so hard about.

What he finally got was, “Fight me.”

Arthur was hard-pressed not to laugh out loud. Merlin looked so determined, his chin up and eyes narrowed, but he was obviously still high as balls.

- About Time by rosewatergold (55k)

After losing Arthur, Merlin semi-accidentally travels back in time. In an attempt to change the future, Merlin takes Morgana under his wing and trains her in magic, all the while trying to pretend he's not still in love with an Arthur who doesn't remember that they used to be married (in the future, that is), keeping an eye out for Morgause, and juggling Camelot's run of the mill crises. You know, the usual manservant stuff.

Enjoy! x

[camelotremix]

Camelot Remix 2020: Week 4

Yesterday's entry concludes the posting period for this year’s Camelot Remix! Thank you so much to everyone who took part, we had some amazing work!

If you haven’t read all of the entries yet, you still have a week to do so while they will be anonymous. Reveals will go up on Monday 20th July. If you haven’t had a chance to comment on the remix of your work, please do so now. All of our submissions can be found in the AO3 Collection. FIC: A Bit Of A Shock (The Trust. Remix) for digthewriter (Arthur/Merlin – PG – 1.2k) Summary: Merlin has gone. Arthur finds him after searching for him high and low. Will Merlin forgive him ART: Tarot Cards for altocello (Arthur/Merlin – G – ART) Summary: The Magician and the King of Swords. Merlin: Manifestation, resourcefulness, power, inspired action. Arthur: Mental clarity, intellectual power, authority, truth.Wednesday FIC: Through His Eyes (The Look At Me Remix) for lairofthedragon / TheDragon (Arthur/Merlin, Merlin/Knights – R – 2.5k) Summary: He loves to watch and Merlin loves to be watched. He loves to dominate and Merlin loves to be dominated. They’re a perfect match for each other in so many ways. Arthur and the knights have their way with Merlin. ART: Decisions, Decisions (the Episode - Choose Your Shovelware Remix) for eisbaerfussel (Arthur/Merlin – R – ART) Summary: Arthur has to decide what to do when he catches Merlin playing NSFW video games during work hours..... AGAIN! FIC: The Quartermaster Who Loved Him (The Bondverse Remix) for degrees / aoigensou (Arthur/Merlin – NC-17 – 9.2k) Summary: Merlin Emrys is a researcher and one of Her Majesty’s best and brightest at MI6 headquarters. His latest tech is a huge hit with the secret service and everything seems to be going swimmingly, until a hot new 00 agent comes along and messes things up royally. Or how Merlin and Arthur met, and what happened next. FIC: The Mistletoe Conspiracy (The Mistletoe Madness Remix) for slantedknitting (Arthur/Merlin – G – 3.7k) Summary: As a prank, Morgana has put up enchanted mistletoe all over the castle, which traps whoever steps beneath one until they've been kissed by their true love. As such, Arthur has memorised every single location of mistletoe to avoid being trapped and having to confess his inappropriate love for his assistant, Merlin. And his vigilance pays off; he doesn’t get caught even once. But Merlin does, which is worse. ART: Meanwhile, In Another Dimension - A "The Adventures Of Arthur Rabbit" Remix for schweet_heart (Arthur/Merlin – G – ART) Summary: The problems one might encounter if one was born as a bunny.

[andveryginger]

A Road Not Taken, Pt. 5

“Speechless”

Summary: For months, she has wondered how to tell him. Now that the moment is here, she still has no idea. (IA x NPC//Adela x Saganu)

Note: Many thanks to @storyknitter for the quick review. Posted with minimal editing, so any mistakes you see are definitely my own.

Also posted over on AO3.

They walked the corridor to their joint quarters in silence, neither trusting themselves to speak. The tension between them was fraught: Fingers intertwined, her knuckles paled as she tightened her grip; shoulders creeping higher as they progressed; jaw twitching in time as she clenched her teeth. She slowed the pace as they approached their rooms, the distance between them dwindling. Finally, pausing before their door, her free hand came to rest against his elbow and he looked up. The blue eyes he knew so well were glassy, swirling with a storm of emotions he couldn’t entirely parse. There was affection and relief, certainly, as well as joy and hope. But it was the spark of fear amidst it all -- something rarely seen from his Red Flame -- that had him worried.

He offered a smile, reaching up to cradle her cheek. “Are you alright, beloved?”

“I --” Adela hesitated, drawing a deep breath. A smile flickered across her lips, warm but wavering, her fingers tightening with his once again. Her voice was low, rough, and unsteady as she stepped before him. Her free hand came to rest against his, eyes fluttering closed for a beat. “I have missed you, my darling Aristocra.”

“As I have missed you,” he replied, glancing left and right. The corridor was deserted around them. He eased forward, brushing his lips gently across hers. He spoke quietly, reverently: “My beloved wife.”

Her expression warmed, but the smile that flickered across her features could only be described as anxious. His apprehension grew. “We should step inside,” she whispered. Her gaze darted toward the security camera to her left, at the apex of the bulkhead and upper deck. “No need to provide any more entertainment than necessary.”

Saganu said nothing as she reached behind them and keyed entry. The door slid aside with the usual rumble, closing with a hiss. They had stepped in to what was nominally her side of the suite, the standard chair replaced with one slightly overstuffed and infinitely more comfortable, and the bed piled with two extra pillows -- his, pulled from his room, the bed they rarely used. Datapads were stacked on her desk, two and three high, and a cup of caf waited nearby, vacuum canister beside it. As always, the temperature had been lowered considerably, accommodating his preference after years of service on first Csilla, then Hoth.

He tugged gently on their joined hands and she stepped closer. Releasing their connection, he brought his hands to rest on her hips as hers came to rest against his chest. She did not close the gap, he noted, even when she slid her palms up to his shoulders. A rueful gleam touched at her eyes even as he opened his mouth to speak. “Will you tell me what’s wrong, beloved?”

She looked up at him, drawing a deep breath and swallowing heavily. Again, he noted the odd mix of emotions, the tension in her shoulders. “Wrong is perhaps not the correct word, but things have become more… complicated in your absence,” she said. “Shortly after Tabarin recalled you, I...” She stopped, inhaling and shaking her head. A nervous laugh escaped her. “For months I have wondered how to tell you. And now that moment is here, and I still have no idea.”

His brow furrowed. “Adela, what --?”

“I --” She exhaled sharply. “I’m expecting.”

Her words struck him and his breath escaped him in a rush, eyes widening with the shock. “Expecting?” he echoed in a whisper. Surely she didn’t mean… Confusion creased his brow as his mind struggled to catch up. “A child?”

Adela nodded. “Yes, darling. Our child.”

They had discussed the possibility of children, of course. At the time, both agreed that, while they might wish for it, the prospect carried enormous personal and political risk; Adela believed the potential cost -- his family, his position, and his standing -- to be too great. Such desires would have to wait. Following Copero, he had all but resigned himself to the fact they would never bear children; that, by the time they regained the good graces of the Ascendancy and House Nuruodo, his beloved consort would be unable to do so. It seemed the galaxy itself now demanded they take that risk.

Confusion slowly gave way to surprise, chased quickly by delight and awe. He felt her hand close over his, gently guiding it over her abdomen. She placed it against a small swell, hidden beneath the loose fit of her tunic and duster. Warmth infused him and his eyes stung. Was this what it was like to cry, he wondered. He didn’t remember; he had been permitted such a show of emotion only as a small boy. As he stood before her now, their hands joined over the first physical evidence of their child, however, there were simply too many emotions to contain. The chaotic jumble overwhelmed him.

“Beloved…” His voice emerged rough, his throat tight as he struggled to find words.There were none. Shaking his head, he slipped his arm around her and drew her close, sealing his mouth over hers. As with so many other things in their relationship, he would simply have to show her.

Afternoon sun filtered through the transom windows at the back of the room, broad beams of yellow light sprawling across the opposite wall as Saganu stirred, the familiar warmth of his consort curled into his side. He revelled in the welcome weight of her head on his shoulder, the wisps of hair tickling his chest, and caress of her skin as her leg slid over his. Three months, he thought, and it might well have been an eternity. Functional and capable, but not operating at full capacity; he had become so accustomed to working with her that working without her seemed as alien as sleeping alone. A rueful smile curved his wide mouth. Before her temporary assignment to Hoth, it had been as many months between their Zeltronian rendezvous. How his life had changed…

And was about to change again, he mused. His brave, cunning, beautiful consort was pregnant. He smoothed his hand over her left arm and dropped a kiss to her silver hair. Their child. It still felt surreal -- as much a dream as laying here with her curled around him. Their lives forever merged in one tiny little being. Would they favor him, the dark blue skin and distinctive red eyes of his people? Or take after their mother, fair skin and blue eyes? Could the child fall somewhere in between?

He was, of course, getting ahead of himself. Any child favoring him should be taken and raised “in shadow” -- out of circulation, and instructed from a young age to take on the responsibilities of Aristocra, a standard policy he knew his consort will disagree with. A child favoring her, on the other hand, would be raised out of circulation for entirely different reasons… not the least of which might be passing on her Force-sensitive heritage. While he, himself, reserved few superstitions regarding the use, he was an outlier among his people: Any Force-sensitive child they had would have to suppress or hide their ability to pass in the Ascendancy, lest they become an outcast. Such was a burden he did not wish on his child. If it came down to it, he supposed, he would prefer the child remain with the Alliance or in the Republic. At least there, they could be trained, respected, and free.

Pale fingers trailed over his abdomen and he heard her chuckle. “You’re thinking too loud, Aristocra,” she said, her voice heavy with sleep. “Credit for them?”

A soft smile tugged at his lips. “Marvelling at how our lives have changed,” he rumbled, “and imagining what our child will be like.” He swallowed back the knot that threatened, even now, as the words ‘our child’ fell from his lips. “It still feels very much like a dream.”

“Reality,” Adela began, raising her head to look at him, “will settle in soon enough, I’m sure.” Concern radiated from her blue eyes, even as her hand came to rest against his heart. “As soon as they come looking for us.”

Saganu nodded, his hand covering hers. “I am, as yet, unsure if we should speak with Tabarin,” he said. “My cousin has extended himself more than I could ever ask, from Zeltros to Copero. I’m afraid this might be a step too far.”

“That was my concern, as well. Few here beyond my family and Lieutenant Temple would understand the significance of my pregnancy.” A rueful grin curved her lips. “But Tabarin is becoming a somewhat regular visitor. I’ll only be able to conceal things for so long before my condition becomes very apparent.”

Looking down at her, he furrowed his brow. “Lieutenant Temple knows.”

Adela nodded. “As a Force sensitive, it was… more readily apparent to her.”

“Then our child -- ?”

Again she nodded, lips drawn taut. “For now, he isn’t very strong,” she said, “just a bond with me, and a bit of flutter for familiar people like Raina and my sister.” Her gaze darted briefly to their joined hands before returning to his. “I want very much for you to have an heir -- someone to inherit all your hard work. But if this is a sign of things to come, then I pray he looks like me.”

Drawing in a deep breath, Saganu released it slowly. Even in this, it seemed they were of similar minds. He shifted focus, wonder and confusion lighting his features as he regarded her. “He? You can tell already?”

“Not at first,” Adela replied. “But now, a few months on? Yes.” Her expression softened. “It’s so strange: he’s felt how anxious I’ve been about this, been concerned about telling you. But he can sense you -- knows instinctively you’re his father. It’s... “ She gave a soft chuckle as her eyes grew misty. “He’s happy to see you.”

His hand caressed down her arm, along her ribs, settling onto her abdomen, more accessible as she shifted onto her back. Warmth radiated from her, his fingers curved ever-so-slightly over the taut muscle and skin. Such a small change, he thought, and yet so apparent now -- especially to someone who knew her curves and contours as intimately as his own. “How” -- he broke off, his voice unexpectedly rough -- “how long before I’ll be able to…?”

“Another month, perhaps a bit more?” She offered him an apologetic smile. “The doctor suggested it might take longer, since this is our first.”

He nodded, then looked back to her. “Then I hope our son knows how pleased I am to see you both.” Leaning down, he pressed a gentle kiss to her lower abdomen, at the crest of the swell. His consort. His child. He held them dear -- cherished them enough to risk or even choose exile for them, to be a part of their lives, to be a father and a husband. Such choices were not made in a vacuum, however, and he already knew the stance his wife held. But they were also his family now and, as such, deserved as much of his duty and devotion as ever. It was as he lifted his head and opened his mouth to broach the subject that the communications console sounded an alert.

“Open communication,” Adela called into the room, “voice only.”

“Agent Emrys; Lieutenant Kal,” the petite voice of Raina Temple said, “my apologies for any interruption, but we are on our way to the cantina, and Aristocra Tabarin wondered if you might join us for dinner?”

It was his turn to offer a rueful grin. “Of course, Lieutenant,” he replied. “Agent Emrys and I can finish our debrief at a later time.”

“I’m sure he’ll be pleased to hear that.” There was a hint of humor audible, even over the comm. “We’re estimating approximately twenty minutes.”

Adela spoke up. “We’ll meet you in the cantina, then.”

“I take it all went well?”

Saganu looked to his consort and his gaze softened. “The report was a touch… overwhelming, but the end result is quite promising,” he replied. “I was thrilled Agent Emrys had such good news to share.”

“I’m so glad, sir,” Temple replied. Her relief was audible, prompting a shared smile between the two. “I’ll look forward to seeing you soon. Dev out.”

The channel closed and they sat for a long moment in silence. He laid his head on her chest and Adela raked her nails through the thick mop of hair atop his head. Closing his eyes, he offered a sigh. “We should tell him,” she said at length. “He deserves that much.”

Saganu nodded slowly, then opened his eyes and shifted to look back up at her. “He does. And, if other actions are required, it will at least prepare him.”

His consort regarded him with an arched brow. “‘Other actions’?”

“Yes, beloved: Other actions.” He grimaced. “Given the current political climate, we should face the very real possibility of my… departure... from the Ascendancy.”

Adela heaved a sigh, her own lips thinning as her brow furrowed and blue eyes clouded. “Darling, we’ve discussed this. I refuse to be the reason for your exile -- voluntary or otherwise.”

“And I still maintain that you -- and now our son -- are equally as deserving of my duty and devotion,” he replied. He placed his hand flat against her heart. “You both are my family as much as my mother or Tabarin; even the rest of House Miurani. We are partners, you and I, and nothing has punctuated that reality more than the last three months we have spent apart.”

Her eyes were glassy, tears welling against her lower lashes as she looked down at him. “Saganu, I --”

He shook his head, before continuing quietly. “This time on Csilla has also shown me exactly how much I have changed -- how different I am, compared to my colleagues and kin. The rules and the double-speak; no one ever saying exactly what they mean.” A knot formed in his own throat, and he felt his vocal cords constrict as he struggled to speak. “It’s stifling, beloved, and without you -- both of you, it will never be worth it.”

Nodding, Adela sighed, tears flowing freely down her cheeks. “Oh, Hells,” she whispered, swiping at them roughly. She gave a forced laugh. “Bloody hormones.”

He shifted up, leaning down and nuzzling her nose with his own, a smile curving his lips. His heart swelled with warmth and affection for this beautiful woman before him -- his friend, his partner, his consort. “It’s all right, beloved,” he murmured. He kissed her gently.

She directed her gaze at him as he drew back. There was determination mingling with the softer emotions in her eyes. “Promise me that you won’t… go looking for it? Exile should be the last resort.”

“I can’t promise, Adela,” he replied, shaking his head. His fingers tucked a stray lock of silver hair behind her ear. “I will be there for you and for our son. That means I will do whatever is necessary, even if that means voluntary exile.”

There was a long pause. He watched the muscle in her jaw ticking, her eyes as her gaze swept over his features, reading his expression and the deeper connection they shared. Finally she nodded. “I’ve trusted you as I’ve trusted no one else,” she said. A soft smile twitched across her lips. “I’ll simply have to continue to do so.”

Saganu swallowed, giving his own nod. “Thank you, beloved.”

Her fingers combed through his hair. “Always.”

“With that settled,” he began, “perhaps we should prepare to meet the entourage?”

“Mmm.” A chuckle rumbled through her. “I’d prefer to stay here with you. But, to keep up a few appearances, perhaps we should get cleaned up.” Her eyes twinkled as she regarded him. “If you’ll start the water...?”

A lopsided grin curved across his lips. “I doubt that will save us time.”

“I don’t care.” Adela allowed her own grin. “I’ve missed you.”

He dropped a kiss to the tip of her nose, then gave his own deep chuckle. “I’ll start the water.”

[uniasus]

fic rec! 1.2MM words of Merthur.

Summary: Captain Arthur Pendragon has put together the best team of specialists that the SAS has ever seen, but when his superiors assign Lieutenant Merlin Emrys as his communications officer, Arthur does everything to make him feel unwelcome. Arthur's job is to protect and guide his team, and he worries that he can't do that when the newest member has a mysterious background and acts suspicious. As their assignments become more dangerous, Merlin can't help but to use his magic to keep his team -- even his prat of a Captain -- safe from threats they couldn't possibly understand. But when they are sent on a undercover operation against a group of zealots intent on a magical apocalypse, Merlin needs to confront his fear of discovery and derision, and to finally trust his team with his secret.

Comments: I’m 100% sure I’ve rec’ed this series by Footloose before, but I’m doing it again because I just reread all 1.2 MILLION words of it.

This series is absolutely brilliant. So much happens in it, scenes and phrases that have never left my head and have pulled me back for TWO rereads of all million plus words. This is my favorite version of Will, of Balinor, of Hunith. Every single knight (Owain, Bhors, Pellinor, etc) of the Round Table gets personalities and depths.

There’s dragons in the army, double-double agents, smut scenes and tender moments. Insecure Merlin, BAMF!Merlin, and totally smart Arthur. A good Morgana and engineer Gwen. An Uther who isn’t that bad of a parent (but still not a good man) and Gaius being an amazing teacher as always.  This is for sure one of those fics you can’t read and walk away from. It stays.

[i-love-me-a-lotta-whump]

Poisonous (Lethal Weapon Fox Fanfic)(Chapter 3 of 3)

***(Location: Martin’s RV)(Seconds after Chapter 2 ended)

“Palmer was looking into your wife’s death.” Roger said.

“What? Why would she do that?”

“She saw links between it and Eddie Flores’s family’s less-than-legal drug business.”

“Yeah?” Martin adjusted his stance, crossing his arms.

“They had Miranda killed, Riggs. You got too close to dismantling them.” Roger leaned up against the door. Martin paced the room for a moment.

“I killed her.”

“What?” Roger stood straight up. “Who?”

“Miranda!” He got frustrated. “Karen, too, I guess.” He looked at Roger with tears in his eyes. “They got close to me and now they’re dead.”

“Riggs, stop.” Martin started to pace even quicker.

“No. I-I can’t, Rog.” Riggs grabbed his gun, badge and keys and pushed Roger out of his way. The two exited the RV.

“Where are you going?” Roger walked towards Riggs before he motioned him off.

“The Den.”

“We’re gonna confront the Flores family in the bar that only they go to? We’ll be dead in seconds!”

“Right. But you’re not going.” Martin turned around and started walking to his truck.

“No, Riggs. You’re not going alone.” Roger quickly began to follow before Martin pulled his gun out and pointed it at him. “Woah. Now that’d be counterproductive. Shoot me to keep me from getting shot?”

“The leg won’t kill you.” Martin said in a monotone voice.

“Touche.”

“I’m sorry, Rog.” Riggs got into his truck, cranked the engine and sped off, while the sand under his tires sprayed out into the air.

***(Location: Roger’s Car)(Speeding down the highway)

“Avery! Riggs is about to do something monumentally stupid!” Roger is screaming into the phone. “That’s not exactly breaking news, Murtaugh.” The Captain said. “But… what’s he about to do?”

“He’s about to storm into The Den, guns blazing!” He screamed.

“Get over there now! I’m sending backup! Everyone!” Avery yelled, hanging up. Roger pushed even harder on the gas pedal. He redials his phone for Martin, pressing “Psycho” on his contacts list.

“I’m sorry, Rog. I can’t stop.” Martin says. He hangs up before Roger can get a word out.

***(Location: The Den)(5 minutes later)

“Flores! Get your ugly ass out here!” Martin screams, standing in the parking lot. The criminal slides out of the booth and stands up.

“I’ll deal with this, myself.” He says, waving off his men. He grabs his pistol off of the table. Walking outside, he laughs when he sees Riggs. “Martin Riggs! How are you, detective?”

“Bad, thank you for asking. I think it’d be cathartic if I killed you, though. I just might feel better.” Martin answered. The two walked in a circle, like lions about to fight for their prides.

“And why would you want that, detective?”

“You had Miranda and Agent Palmer killed, but you already know that.”

“Yes I do; and I can do the same to you. I’ve got men inside ready to ventilate you.”

“I bet the bullets in my gun are faster than your men. You’d be dead before they could get to the door.”

The two draw their guns. Flores’s hands were steady. His mind was only on one thing. Surviving this ordeal. Or maybe not. Maybe he would do more damage to the detective if he let him kill him. Martin, on the other hand, had his hands slightly shaking. His mind was full of thoughts. The day he went to the hospital and saw that doctor pulling the sheet over his dead love and unborn child. Seeing Karen’s dead body, the way it was. Her funeral. It was time for this bastard to die.

“Riggs!” Roger screams, getting out of his car. He runs over to where the standoff is taking place. In a few seconds, the parking lot is surrounded by cop cars and the officers that drive them.

“Detective, Flores, put your guns down!” An officer yelled through a bullhorn.

“I’ve got this!” Roger yelled back. “Stand down!”

“Go away, Rog.” Martin said in an annoyed yet concerned voice.

“Riggs, this isn’t the right choice. You can’t come back from this.” Roger slowly went and grabbed Flores’s gun. He freely gave it up hoping he’d ruin the detective.

“Shoot me, Riggs. My men will see you in prison.” He says.

“I suggest you keep your mouth shut.” Roger said. He looked back to Martin. “Give me the gun.” He started to step forwards towards his partner.

“I’m poisonous, Rog.” He stepped back. “When Miranda died, I thought I’d never be happy. I finally thought I proved myself wrong. I was with Palmer. Now she’s dead, too.” Tears begin to stream down his face but he quickly wipes them away and blinks away the lingering ones in his eyes.

“You’re not poisonous, Riggs. You’re not.” Roger insists. He’s got his hands stretched out  facing his partner. Hell, his brother! He’s got tears forming but he holds them back. He wants to stay one hundred percent focused and involved.

“Everyone’s said it. I’m crazy. Poison and crazy. Not a good combination, is it Rog?” He has the puppy eye thing going on and it practically paralyzes Roger. Those dead, nearly soulless brown eyes.

“You’re not crazy and you’re not poisonous. You’re my brother.” Roger said.

“Go ahead. Shoot me, detective.” Flores said.

“Shut up.” The boys said at the same time.

“Roger I’m sorry. But he killed Miranda. He killed Palmer. They’re dead because of him!” Riggs screams. He jerks the gun towards Flores. The criminal and Roger both flinch. Roger sighs in disappointment and heartache. He took his gun out of the holster and points it at Martin.

“Rog? Wh-wha-what are you doing?” Riggs asks, in shock.

“You need to put the gun down, partner.” Roger was starting to get even more anxious. Nothing happens. “Put… the gun… down.” He adjusted his grip on his firearm. Riggs looked to Roger and slowly lowered his weapon. Roger sighed in relief.

“I’m sorry, Rog.”  Martin said, quickly lifting his gun towards Flores.

*BOOM*

“I’m sorry, too.” Roger said. Martin looks to Murtaugh and down to his abdomen. He fell to the ground, dropping his gun at his side. He grabbed at his bullet wound, shirt covered in blood. He’s still focused on Flores. He squirms, reaching for his weapon but Roger picks it up, just in time.

“Rog. Don’t.” He says. His voice is breathy. He’s breathing heavily and squeezes his eyes shut. He cries out in great pain when the paramedics lift him onto the gurney. It’s soft, compared to the concrete. It almost feels good. The oxygen mask is heavily welcomed. When the paramedic puts the cloth and temporary bandages on the wound, he bucks and kicks his left leg. He groans in pain. The paramedics babble on and he begins losing consciousness. “I’m sorry, Rog.” Is the last thing he says before his eyes close and he falls into the abyss of drug induced sleep. Roger heard it. He quickly made his way to his car and began crying. He slammed his hand against the steering wheel. He screams indecipherable words. Seeing his brother in pain like that physical and emotional was too much to bear.

***(Location: LA’s Acadia Hospital)(The next morning)

Martin’s eyes slowly open. They’re heavy. He’s a little dizzy at first but gets his bearings, a little bit. He tries to sit up but is met by a horrible pain that practically shoves him back into the bed. He lets out a strong whimper. He feels the leeds tug on his bare chest.

“Hey. Hey. Calm down, Martin.” Trish said. She was sitting in the chair next to him. She stood up, walked over to the bed and sat on it on his left side.

“Trish.” He tried to sit up, again and was successful, as he trudged through the pain for a moment. He noticed a cold feeling on his wrist and looked down. Right below his IV needle was a pair of handcuffs chaining him to the bed. “What? What is this?”

“Roger told them to do it. You’re just a little bit of a flight risk.” She answered him. She laughs a little bit. He does, too but quickly stops when he feels the pain again. Roger walked in.

“Well he’s right.” Martin said, looking at him. “Rog, I’m…”

“Sorry? Don’t be. If that happened to Trish, or one of the kids… Plus, I shot you. We’re even. Just don’t do that, again.” Roger interrupted.

“I’ll leave you two to talk.” Trish said. She gave Riggs a kiss on the forehead and walked around the bed to her husband. “I’ll be in the car.” She whispers in his ear. When she’s out of the room, Roger walks away from the doorway.

“They pressing charges?” Martin asked.

“Nah. They found evidence at The Den against the entire Flores cartel, thanks to you. The captain said it probably wouldn’t be good for the media to get ahold of the story that a hero cop lost his job. I agreed.” Roger said, suggestively. “And there’s the little part of him having a gun, too. Delgado said he considers that self-defense. To top all of that off, there’s witnesses that could testify in your favor if they decided to make a case out of this.”

“Then can you take off these handcuffs?” Martin lifted his wrist and the cuffs rattled.

“Nope. It’s like Trish said. You’re too much of a flight risk. You’ll try to leave before you’re all better.” Roger turned around, laughing a little bit.

“Rog.” Martin playfully pleaded, at first.

“The RJ and Rihanna are gonna stop by, later, to see you. Trish’ll be with ‘em with clothes.” Roger begins walking off. “Rog!”

“Cahill’s coming by, too, so you don’t miss your appointment. She’s considerate like that.” He’s almost out of the door.

“Roger, come on!”

“Sleep tight, Riggs. Don’t let the hospital bed bugs bite!” Roger is out of the door and walking down the hall.

“Roger Mayfield Murtaugh!” Martin jiggles the cuffs and sits back in the bed, grabbing at his bandaged wound. “I gotta pee.”