Chapter Text
It’s nice to spend time with Merlin. The rest of the day, Merlin and Arthur linger around the golden field in the middle of the battleground and Arthur can’t help but point out how unrealistic the idea is that there is solid gold underneath their feet and NO BANDIT ever tried to dig it up.
Merlin’s laugh is bellowing and loud. It’s far from elegant but Arthur finds himself drawn to it anyway. He could not feel more proud of that achievement if he tried. He grins a lot that afternoon. Listens to Merlin’s retorts and watches as Merlin lets his magic play around them in diverse colored butterflies and flowers, flames and illustrations that underline the stories he’s painting in the sky. He seems relaxed.
It’s easy to fall into light and teasing conversation with Merlin. Merlin likes to insult Arthur, and Arthur is shocked to find it endearing. Merlin, in turn, seems to like it when Arthur is flustered and Arthur is easily flustered.
The sun is shining on them and Merlin’s magic is keeping them warm against the cold. It’s easily the nicest day Arthur’s had in his life.
“I think we should go to Essetir.”
Merlin chokes on the water he was drinking from his flask. Half of it runs down his chin as he fixes his gaze on Arthur. “Come again?”
Arthur feels somewhat nervous, so he shrugs. “We were meant to go there anyway. I know this is much sooner than planned… but the peace treaty is real now. I would like to see where you live and meet Camelot’s new allies.”
“They won’t accept you.”
“I know.” Arthur is still relaxed. He knows it, has felt it when he walked into Camelot, his face and voice that of Camelot’s worst enemy. “I don’t expect them to, unless I prove my worth to them.”
“No, no no no. Arthur, you don’t understand -” Merlin pulls at his own hair and searches for something in Arthur’s eyes that he can’t find. “When I made the suggestion to take you to Essetir, I was in your body. I could have protected myself, while you were safe in mine. If worse came to worse, I would have told them the truth, just to make sure they don’t kill me.”
“I can’t follow.”
“Of course you don’t.” Merlin lay back down on the ground. “They would have easily chopped your head off without me asking. My people… Essetir, believes that a king must be strong. A king who can’t even light a candle with magic - They’ll never accept that.”
“I think that’s your insecurity talking.”
“Yes, Arthur. The same insecurity that makes sure no one ever enters my rooms except for me, the same kind that has to destroy giant objects to prove my worth and make sure no one tries to kill me like they killed my father -” Merlin closes his eyes and swallows, then he opens them again. “This… this part of my magic -” He lets a flaming dragon flutter around Arthur but Arthur is too hung up on Merlin’s words to watch it, “I can’t display that in front of my people. I never have.”
Arthur gapes and sits up. “Wait… am I understanding this right? This ENTIRE time that you were telling me that THIS -,” he waves at the dragon, “is what magic truly looks like, your own people don’t believe it?”
Merlin hesitates but answers anyway. “Of course they know that magic can be like this. But this kind of magic is useless. It’s just for show. They will not be pleased to find that I …” He bites his lip and when he reaches out to Arthur’s hand, Arthur knows he’s searching for comfort. So, he takes Merlin’s hand and holds it between both of his. Merlin sends him a grateful smile. “I’m not weak… but the magic I show them defines Essetir’s strength and no kingdom wants a king who’s only good for visual effect.”
Arthur smiles weakly.
“Besides, I never said that this is how all magic looks like. I told you that magic overflows sometimes and that I need to use it as stress relief. That’s why I kept redecorating your room when I was sure no one was looking. The reason why you got so see my real magic -” Merlin exhales deeply.
“Is because of the soul magic.” Arthur nods and Merlin confirms it by biting his lip. “You know, Merlin, for someone who told me he needs to be happy to be a good king, you sure are suffering for your own people.”
“And for someone who’s willing to sell his soul for his kingdom, you’re surprisingly inspiring. Your people love you.”
Arthur can’t help but smile. “Then, how about this - You’ll protect me while we go to Essetir, and in the meantime I help you win your people’s hearts.”
Merlin considers him for a moment. “You think I can do that? Win their hearts?”
“You already won mine.”
Merlin kicks him with his foot and groans. “GOSH, are you always going to be like this?”
“You enjoy it.” Arthur shuffles closer and tackles Merlin into a hug. Before they know it, they are laughing underneath the sun. Arthur learns that Merlin is ticklish and Merlin counters that discovery by reversing their position. Arthur would believe it, if someone told him that someone had captured two stars between Merlin’s eyelashes. He would believe it if the gods said he was made to become a god. Arthur cannot believe that Merlin’s smile is directed at him. He kisses him softly, just because he can and maybe, because he can hardly stop himself.
“I’m starting to think that your kissing addiction will be the bigger problem, now that I think about it,” Merlin says seriously.
“I suppose we’ll have to make room for it then. I don’t think I can hold back for very long. It’s basically the same as it was with your magic.”
“Oh, do shut up.” Merlin giggles. Then his smile falters just slightly. It’s not displeased, not entirely, but worried. “I can’t have you sleep in a guest room. What if one of the servants poison you?”
Arthur’s eyes widen. “You trust them so little?”
“Arthur, I myself have a resistance to poison because of how often it happens. Yes, I’m serious!” Merlin hesitates for a second. “You’ll be sleeping in my room with me.”
Arthur is speechless. “I - Isn’t that-”
“It’s the only place where I can be sure you’re safe.”
—------------------------------------------------------------
Needless to say, Arthur is anxious.
What kind of kingdom does one live in, if their own king is scared of his people? What kind of king was Merlin if he had to show strength rather than compassion to his people? What Merlin described is what Arthur was taught is tyranny. Was Merlin a tyrant? Was Arthur riding into his own doom? It’s a fleeting thought. Arthur has seen Merlin’s soul, has seen his magic, he knows Merlin is a good person. Where Camelot fails to accept magic, Arthur is sure Essetir needs to change the way it rules. That’s all.
They ride into the town at sunset. The sky is red and the towers of the kingdom dark and foreboding shadows against the sky. The streets are empty, except for a few people in dark robes who are chanting magical songs. They look mystical and creepy in the wet corners and shadows of broken walls.
Not even moss is growing on the ruins. It’s as if Merlin’s magic is folding away, no longer willing to reach out to Arthur. The silence is eerie, the glances even more so. Arthur feels like he’s hunting, but suddenly he’s the prey. He strains his ears to hear who may be approaching and hears his own steps echo in the streets.
“It… looks better during the day.” Merlin mutters quietly. Arthur can barely see him, even though they are riding next to each other.
Arthur wants to reach out and hug him. Merlin had been right. Essetir is not at all like Camelot.
On their way through what Arthur assumes is the market, they pass a giant statue. It’s a giant rock with a sword stuck in it. In the dim light, Arthur can’t tell if the thing is completely made of marble or a different kind of stone. The blade doesn’t reflect the moonlight, so at least he knows it’s not a real sword he sees, and it looks like parts of it has succumbed to time.
“What’s that?” Arthur points at the stone.
Merlin hesitates to answer. “An old tradition.”
“What kind of tradition.”
“It’s nothing you need to worry about.”
“Merlin -”
Merlin grumbles. “It’s a wedding tradition. Let’s hope you won’t have to do it.”
Arthur frowns and flushes. “But I thought -”
Merlin interrupts him before Arthur can point out that their current relationship absolutely warrants that Arthur should worry about a wedding tradition. “Arthur… it’s too soon. Even if… if we work out… the people need to accept you first. The King of Essetir can marry whoever he likes… but the sword in the stone is the way the people can object to the marriage. That’s why my father never got married. The woman he loved doesn’t have magic as far as I know. It’s complicated but… the people didn’t accept her and she couldn’t fulfill the demand, so… Well.”
Arthur clenches his fist around the reins of his horse. “And you’re telling me that now?”
Merlin growls again. “It’s fine. I won’t accept the objection, I mean… I wouldn’t, if we ever… get that far.”
“Is that even possible?” Arthur feels a nervous flutter in his chest. Was it possible for Merlin to object an objection?
“Not really. But unless you can pull a fucking sword out of that stone - “ Merlin trails off and urges his horse to keep going. “I don’t expect you to do the impossible, Arthur. This… event… requires magic.”
“So… someone who has magic could do it?”
“Yes. My father did it. I did it. Otherwise I wouldn’t have been accepted as heir. As I said, magic and strength are what this kingdom requires their kings to have. I told you they wouldn’t accept you, for this reason alone. This stone requires powerful magic. It is said that only one person per generation can do it. If they call objection, it’s pretty much safe that the wedding will be called off.”
Arthur doesn’t respond. He wouldn’t know how to. This certainly was a problem. Arthur had thought that Merlin was free to choose who he was going to marry. Truth is, he couldn’t choose an arranged marriage and a love match was just as difficult to obtain. Arthur supposed that a love match was still easier for a king, if it proved to improve the king’s mood. Essetir’s customs were something Arthur couldn’t quite fathom. It was built on the events of the purge and the laws based entirely on a system that Arthur had no access to on his own.
Merlin uses his magic to open the castle gates for them and the doors open with a creak. There are no guards there to open the doors. Essetir is smaller than Camelot, its army too, although their magic makes them stronger and more terrifying than any other army Arthur has ever faced. Arthur understands that this also means that there are jobs that simply don’t exist in Essetir. At the same time it shows how powerful Merlin is, if he doesn’t need twenty people to open this giant solid door for them.
They ride inside and here, it is even darker than it was in the market. Arthur clears his throat. “Erm… Merlin. Are you still there? I can barely tell where we’re going -”
“Oh, right.” Merlin mumbles something under his breath and soon fires light around them. Torches are burning in their handles against the wall, and one blue orb rights out in front of them to show them the way. “Sorry, I forgot that it’s too dark for you to see.”
“You can see in the dark?”
“I can see the magic.” Merlin explains this with a gentle smile. “There isn’t much within these walls, to be completely honest, so I use my magic to enhance my vision. What little is there, helps me map out the way. The horses can’t see as far as I, so I usually don’t forget. I guess I’m just…”
“Nervous.” Arthur nods. “Me too.”
“Yeah, you should be. You have every reason to be nervous. I’m the KING.” Merlin goes silent. “Are you disappointed?”
Arthur knows that Merlin means what Arthur has seen from Essetir so far. “I have barely seen anything yet. Besides, you’ve told me what Essetir would be like and you told me why it’s the way it is. I’m not disappointed.”
“It’s ironic how Essetir’s castle is less magical than Camelot.” Merlin laughs anxiously.
“You can change that.”
“I wouldn’t know how.”
“Yes, you do.” Arthur smiles at Merlin too.
“There’s a lot of problems with that idea. I’d have to tell the people to start praying. I’d basically tell them to fend for themselves and admit that I’m a useless king! They’d dethrone me instantly! And I know who would be next in line and then I promise you, neither Camelot nor Essetir will survive for long.”
Arthur nods. “Maybe we should sleep this over. I had the same concerns as you, when I took over my father’s reign. I’m a different king than my father was and I now realize that that’s a good thing. Showing vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.”
Merlin hums as an answer. “That depends on how the people view it.”
“Then make them believe you have ulterior motives.” Arthur stares at Merlin intently. “If they don’t trust that you want the best for them, make it look like you’re doing it for yourself and be open about it. For example, I know you dine alone because you’re scared you may be poisoned. My father was afraid of the same thing. Once a year, at Christmas, he would allow knights and peasants to dine at the same table as him. It would be the perfect opportunity to poison him, but the danger of accidentally poisoning a friend is way higher than killing my father. Especially, if all the food is open to everyone. My father decided to sit somewhere else every year. I didn’t know this as a child. And the people didn’t know it either. My father told me about it when I became crown prince.”
Merlin stared at him. “But that’s… That IS an ulterior motive.”
Arthur nodded. “It was in the beginning. And it was what the people criticized him for. But in time the people started to like the festivities and they began to believe that my father was doing this for them. When my reign began, I believed in what my people believed. I knew what my father thought, but to me it felt like I was closer to my people during those events than any other day. So, I kept the tradition and opened up the round table where everyone is equal. The government, Merlin, is there for the people, not the people for the government. I cannot demand from them whatever I want. What I need from them, is to know what they need so I can help them. Whether or not a kingdom is rich, is measured by the poorest of the poor, not the rich. That’s what I believe.”
Merlin frowned a bit, then send Arthur a fond smile. “You think… If I do that, things can be better? But at my own risk?”
“I know you care for your people. And you bear the responsibility. That doesn’t mean you can’t ask for help. The kingdom is not you. Your job is simply to protect it.”
“I know THAT.” Merlin is still smiling. “Then… I’ll order for a feast tomorrow, shan’t I? Let’s call it a Camelot tradition and my way of accommodating for our truce.”
Arthur smiles. “That does sound like an ulterior motive to me.”
“You have too much faith in people.”
…
Arthur wonders what the people will think. Camelot’s people would whisper about infidelity and dishonor and breaking traditions if they knew where Arthur is right now. The people of Essetir, Arthur is sure, won’t even bat an eye at him, but start mistrusting Merlin.
Arthur himself has a similar thought process to the one he had when he was kissing Merlion. ‘luoguzdfloiuhluzfdloiöh’.
Arthur is prepared for the night, bath and everything, and he’s picked the left side of the bed as usual and Merlin is laying next to him, face turned to him and curled into himself like a wary watchdog. His dark blue eyes are flaring golden and fixed on Arthur, like he’s determined to watch him all night, lest someone drag him away.
Arthur is laying stiff on his bed, simultaneously wishing he had his own room, and wishing Merlin to come closer. “Your magic is guarding the door, Merlin, you don’t need to stare at me all night.” Merlin flushes and Arthur has the distinct impression that maybe the staring isn’t entirely because of worry. Arthur’s heart skips a beat and he feels his face heating. “You know… in Camelot it would be considered indecent to spend the night with someone before the wedding night.”
Merlin’s face explodes into red. He curses and when Arthur looks to where he felt the magic exploding with him, and sees vines growing all over the door.
Questioningly, he turns to Merlin. “Didn’t you say you can’t do that here?”
Merlin buries his face in the pillow. “That’s your fault,” he muffles into the linen, implying that he can’t help it.
Arthur breaks out into a smile. The reaction does wonders to his pride. With a quiet laugh, he throws caution to the wind, knowing that Merlin is just as nervous as him, and leans over Merlin’s shoulder to kiss him on the hair. Another magic explosion lets flowers bloom on the windowsill while Merlin’s eyes blow wide.
“Arthur, stop it!” Merlin sounds embarrassed and alarmed but doesn’t protest when Arthur wraps Merlin in a hug and presses him closer to his side. His barely concealed giggle and smile only spur Arthur on to kiss him on the cheek. The next magic wave changes the air into tasting fresh and sweet like right after raining. Merlin groans. “I hate you.”
Arthur revels in the fact that Merlin’s magic begs to differ.
Arthur doesn’t know who announced Emrys’ return to Essetir but he’s not surprised that they are woken by a heavy knock on the door.
His eyes snap open and he notices that he still has one arm put around Merlin’s shoulder. Their legs are entangled under the blankets and Merlin groans into Arthur’s shirt.
It knocks again and Arthur gently shakes Merlin awake. Merlin raises his head, curses, then waves his hand and the door flings open. For a moment, Arthur is flabbergasted. Not by the display of magic but by the fact that Merlin doesn’t care where he is and with whom and in what position.
Arthur’s inner alarm has to make place for curiosity though as he catches a glimpse of the old man who just entered. His face is a bit asymmetrical, his long hair white and wavy and he wears robes as unimpressive as any druid does. His eyes meet Arthur’s and he raises a single eyebrow. Arthur nearly gapes. What an impressive expression, he already wants to apologize and he hadn’t even done anything.
Merlin sleepily raises his head and groans before puffing out some breath. “Hello, Gaius.”
Arthur thinks he’s heard the name before but it takes him a moment to recognize where. “GAIUS? You mean the famous court physician?” Arthur has heard stories of his own court physician who explained to him that Gaius had to flee, once Uther learned that the man had magic. His skills, he said, were unparalleled in all the five kingdoms. At the time, Arthur had been sure that Gaius may have tried to kill Uther but now he was pretty sure he’d have to reevaluate his prejudices.
The man tilts his head. “I’m flattered, young man but I don’t know who you are. I would like to talk with the king, if you please.” He steps into the room, not batting an eye at Arthur’s existence before addressing Merlin. “Merlin, I see you’ve returned from your… adventure. I wish to know what happened. People say you’ve gone to Camelot and now you bring home a -” He sends Arthur a glance that asks if he’s a harlot or something of the sort. “What is he exactly?” Gaius frowns a bit. “What are you waiting for? Get out. This is a private conversation.”
Arthur isn’t even moving but Merlin still reaches out a hand to signal him to stay. “Good morning, Gaius. My stay in Camelot was … enlightening, thanks for asking. Let me introduce my boyfriend to you. This is Arthur Pendragon, King of Camelot.”
If Gaius is shocked to hear that, he doesn’t show it. He straightens his back and widens his eyes just slightly. “Uther’s son.”
Arthur is far more shocked by the term ‘boyfriend’. He sends Merlin a barely concealed grin that seems to relax Emrys. Merlin clears his throat. “Yeah.”
“I dread to hear what enlightening means, Merlin. But since you’re both here… albeit unexpectedly, what changed your mind? I hear you surrendered. The council is mad and so are the people. I’ve heard plans about revolts, Merlin.” It dawns on Arthur then that Gaius isn’t mad but worried. It is hard to tell with his expression.
Merlin groans. “As expected.”
Gaius steps further into the room. “Merlin, I cannot stress how fickle your reign currently is! They already had their doubts when you couldn’t keep the walls enriched with your magic! But surrender, now? And you bring home the King of Camelot to your bed? Really?”
Merlin mumbles something incoherently and presses his head into the pillow. Arthur watches him with concern, then addresses Gaius. “I don’t mean to speak out, this isn’t my kingdom -”
“Go ahead, your majesty. I apologize for my rude welcome.” Gaius says this quickly.
“It’s fine… the circumstances were… unusual. Merlin, should I tell him?” Merlin gives him a thumbs up and a groan in response. Arthur takes it as a confirmation. “We did some research on the prophecy and we learned that we weren’t meant to kill each other but to reign… together.” Arthur trails off, mostly because he feels his face heating. “The moment we met on the battlefield, our bodies switched and we didn’t know what to do, lest we fight on the wrong side of the war. So, we called it off to figure out how to change back. Then… we talked, we switched back and somehow ended up like this.”
Gaius blinks once, then probably never again. “Fascinating.”
Arthur leans down to Merlin to whisper. “Is he always like this?”
Merlin gives him a look that speaks of years of experience and leaves no doubt. Gaius, however, has long stopped looking at him and turned on his heels to inspect the walls. “Merlin, did you do this?”
Arthur needs a moment to figure out what Gaius means, until he finds the entire room changed overnight. It’s not just the air that feels fresher and the flowers blooming over the door frame and the windowsill… the walls look like they are freshly renovated. What has been black rubbled stone the night before, is now a homey place with tapestries and paintings so highly illustrated that Arthur wonders how the hell he hasn’t noticed before. As he looks closer, he can tell that the illustrations tell his and Merlin’s story.
Merlin too, finally sits up. He’s the first to step out of the bed and steps closer to the wall. His hand runs over it. “I… I didn’t even…”
Gaius looks at him, then turns to Arthur and then, finally, understanding washes over his features. “I understand.”
“Understand what?” Arthur feels slightly self conscious here, on the bed that isn’t his own in a kingdom that wants him dead and a power he can’t even conceive of.
“I believe you,” Gaius says unhelpfully before he elaborates. “People have been doubting Merlin’s status as the most powerful sorcerer and destined king of Albion since he can’t…,” he looks around, “liven up the place. It appears that either his adventure, or you are solving that issue. You will have to explain more about that prophecy, but I think you do have a point.”
Arthur relaxes. Merlin doesn’t move from the point where he’s standing. “I thought I had to … love Essetir.”
Gaius steps closer to Merlin and puts a hand on Merlin’s shoulder and Arthur has the feeling that to Merlin, Gaius was something akin to a father. Since Balinor died young, it doesn’t see, unrealistic that this man stepped in. Arthur makes a mental note to ask Merlin later. “No, Merlin. Just love is enough. Your happiness is enough to fuel the castle. You’ve never truly experienced happiness before, since you were a child. I won’t ask you what warrants your change of heart but I suppose I can imagine what led to it.” Gaius sends Arthur a smile. Arthur, however, doesn’t know what to say.
—-------------------------------------------------------
Merlin has never been as mortified as he is seeing the tapestry. For some reason, he’s completely lost control over his magic and it feels like it’s bleeding into his surroundings. Every time he tries to reel it in, he looks at Arthur and a wave of complete adoration overcomes him and his heart is bleeding out into the floor. It’s embarrassing and it’s visible for everyone in Essetir to see. The first wave must have come during the night, in which Merlin slept in Arthur’s arms. Now, he’s trying to walk the corridors with a stoic face, which is impossible when the walls around him are changing as he breathes.
Arthur, on the other hand, looks completely delighted. It becomes most obvious when Merlin sends a servant to arrange the feast that he and Arthur had discussed the night before. As the servant walks in the direction of the kitchen, he keeps looking around himself in complete awe.
That is how they find themselves at breakfast at a table that has grown under Merlin’s touch into a round table, similar to Camelot’s own. Merlin tries not to wince, because he really can’t hold his magic back anymore. It feels like it’s growing with every beat of his heart. And whenever he catches Arthur watching Merlin’s magic unfold in awe, another wave of it explodes into the air, creating doves and butterflies and all the things Merlin was NOT supposed to create!
And when it comes to the paintings… oh boy. Merlin really hopes that the paintings are just telling real things and not just his fantasies. This whole thing already declares that Merlin is weak for the King of Camelot. He may as well tell them he wants to bend Arthur over the nearest table and have his way with him. And now imagine it painted on the walls! (Spoiler: It’s not.)
At the feast there are only very few people. Beside Merlin himself, Arthur and Gaius, only a few servants and guards have gathered. None of them seem eager to touch the food. All seem distracted by the magic unfolding. Quite a few of them look confused. Not more than Merlin himself though. Merlin turns to Gaius. “Where do you think the others are?”
Gaius hesitates. “I told you. They are at the bring of a revolt. Your arrival last night didn’t go unnoticed and you have to remember that no one here really knows what Arthur looks like. There have been rumors, but most people seem to think you’re insecure in your proceeding with Camelot.”
Merlin nods seriously and leans back, unsure how to do this. When he looks at Arthur to ask him what to do, Arthur has already gotten up and reaches out a hand. Merlin takes it without knowing why. He raises to his feet and only then does Arthur explain. “If they don’t want to come in, then we need to come out and invite them ourselves.”
“Arthur… If they are revolting, I’ll have to speak word over them.”
Arthur is always so positive and optimistic. “I’m sure once they step inside, they’ll understand.”
“Arthur, I really am sure that they won’t.”
“Don’t judge them before you’ve tried.” Arthur pulls him along and Merlin has to follow. He sees his servants frown at the interaction. They hate this, they hate Arthur, they hate Merlin. Merlin just knows and swallows. Maybe the prophecy is really just about Arthur. The man was reckless and clueless, but with a heart of gold and it was always meant to be Merlin’s job to protect him.
Arthur drags him outside into the marketplace and Merlin curses under his breath. Gaius was right. There is a revolt. Merlin hates revolts. He always has to use his magic to overpower and kill them all so they stop doubting him. Merlin hates it, he hates them, he hates -”
“Dear citizens of Essetir!” Arthur’s voice echoes loudly over the heads of the people who, as soon as they notice him, throw forks and stones at him. Merlin can’t make out their words and complaints but his magic immediately reaches out to shield Arthur. Merlin, panicking slightly, silences them all. Arthur looks shocked at the reaction but when he clears his throat, his voice is magically enhanced to let the people hear him. “My name is Arthur Pendragon, king of Camelot.”
Loud booing sounds interrupt him and Arthur freezes. Merlin fumes. “Let him speak!”
“Traitor!” “Emrys brought destruction to Essetir!” “Pendragon is a murderer!” These are the words Merlin can make out but it’s many more. “There will never be peace!” “Kill him!” “Kill them both!”
Essetir has fewer people than Camelot but they are louder, more dangerous and always armed.
Both Arthur and Merlin begin to panic, though Merlin is only holding back because Arthur still looks determined to solve this problem. He wants people to love Merlin. Merlin loves Arthur in that moment because he can tell. His people can’t. “Don’t believe a word a Pendragon says!” “He’s blackmailing our king.”
Arthur shouts over their heads, and Merlin is sure he’s either deaf of someone has hit Arthur over the head, because his words finally create the silence they had earlier craved. “I’m here to marry your king!”
Merlin’s mouth drops open and he sees Arthur’s flush. Why on EARTH would he say that? The people are laughing at him and point fingers, more amused than anything. Merlin bites his lips. They’vbe talked about it! The druids are SO going to object! Arthur doesn’t have magic! They need to like him first, before marriage is even an option! Not to mention that it’s far too soon anyway.”
“OBJECTION!” It’s almost a chorus but the people part the way for him mockingly. Most of them probably believe that Arthur doesn’t know what’s at stake. What the objection means, but Arthur suddenly looks confident.
Only when he looks at Merlin does he falter. “Sorry. I didn’t know how else to…”
Merlin shakes his head. “Arthur, you’re … You’re way too impulsive.”
“Always have been.” Arthur gives him a lopsided grin. “Do you believe that I can do it? Do you believe in me, Merlin?”
Merlin huffs a breath. “I trust you with my life, Arthur. But this is… this is magic.”
Arthur steps forward to him. “Is that your only problem with this?”
Merlin stares at him. His lips quiver, but he nods. Yes, Arthur is right. He should be questioning the marriage idea but he can’t. He’s let it go through his head several times and it just makes too much sense. It’s an arranged marriage for the benefit of both kingdoms, it’s a love match and it means peace. He can’t not agree. “Arthur, we talked about this. FIRST comes the trust, then the action.”
Arthur smiles. “I thought I made clear that I’m actions first to deserve that trust.” He turns to the stone. “If I think this stone can stop us, then maybe I’m not worth your time.”
“Arthur, that’s not how this works.” Merlin almost panics. “And it’s not going to change how I feel. I want - Arthur this is reckless!”
“PEOPLE OF ESSETIR!” Arthur steps away from Merlin and this time they listen. “My name is Arthur Pendragon and I am the King of Camelot.” He steps through the isle of druids who are making way for him. They don’t believe in him and Arthur knows it. As he stops in front of the broken stone, he turns to the people. “I know our cultures are different and our history is complicated and twisted. But that is why I’m here. Destiny is not something I can hope to stop -” Arthur closes his eyes for a moment. “But your king taught me that we have a choice in how we do it. I am not my father and I do not believe in the ways he treated you.”
With those words, Arthur has them, Merlin knows it. But he doesn’t understand why Arthur is doing this in the first place. What is he hoping to achieve?
“By marrying Merlin -” Both him and Merlin flush a deep red, “I hope to bring our lands closer together.” Arthur pauses, knowing that these people will object to his idea again if he dares say it again. “I also hope that I can make your king a happy one. That he’ll feel at home again, no matter where he is.”
Heads turn to Merlin and he nearly curses them all.
“Merlin is strong, kind and powerful. He rules over you all by himself and bears the responsibility of you all. Camelot is different. And I know I’m biased since it’s my kingdom, but I believe my people are happy and they believe in me.” He sees the people scoffing and booing and shouts over their heads again. “AND I’m a hypocrite! Because their faith is a form of magic.”
Merlin’s face falls. And suddenly he’s not the only one captured by Arthur’s words. Arthur doesn’t hesitate for long but Merlin can see it. Can see the moment in which Arthur gathers his own faith in his people. And Merlin can feel it, how the faith is reciprocated. It fills the earth and the sky, and the moment Arthur touches the stone sword, the marble breaks underneath his hands.
This … is not how the story’s supposed to go. Merlin’s eyes widen. This is not how Merlin turned the stone into a sword. All his magic had turned the stone itself into metal and shown the people what he could do but after the magic was gone, he put the sword back and it was stone again. It’s what he would have expected if Arthur had any magic at all to somehow accomplish that fear.
Under Arthur’s grip, the stone crumbles and reveals the hilt of a white golden sword. Arthur looks awed, somewhat in surprise, but it’s nothing compared to the silence that follows. He proudly raises the sword into the sky, the rest of the marble falling away, revealing its full glory. “A true king chooses his people, and the people choose him. My people have chosen me. I’m asking you to have faith in yours.”
Merlin is going to marry Arthur. It’s more of an urge than a fact and it completely blanks Merlin’s mind.
…
It’s a bit wild after that. The people seem torn and Merlin completely understands that. Arthur has taken the sword with him, levels it with one hand and deems it a nice one, then raises a brow at Merlin, not realizing how people are suddenly bowing to him. “What… do I do with it now? I don’t know how to put it back? Or… do you have multiple of these and everyone gets to keep theirs?”
Merlin stares at him. “How on actual earth -”
“I don’t know… I just thought… you said Camelot was magic because of the prayers, so I figured it was a possibility that -”
“Arthur… do you realize that you just announced your legitimate claim to the throne of Essetir?”
“I mean… if we’re to get married -” Arthur fumbles with the sword. “I mean, of course not right away, I just… I figured- I knew we had to do something to gather their attention unless you wanted to overpower them all with your magic, so I… I just wanted to make clear that you’re not a fraud who’s being led on-”
“Arthur, you don’t have to marry me anymore to unite Albion.” Merlin feels numb and he can tell that Arthur hasn’t caught on yet. “That stone is our way of showing that we deserve the throne. I’ve turned that stone into a sword once. It took immense powers, because the stone ABSORBS magic. Your magic needs to be more powerful than that stone can absorb! It’s never never been done like that! It would always turn back to stone. And you don’t even have magic. Which means - if that sword is rightfully yours, then you’re the rightful king of Essetir.” Merlin doesn’t know whether to be alarmed or amazed.
Arthur’s eyes widen. “I… huh? But you said it was a test!”
“It is! It’s meant to be impossible! But you MORE than passed it! Hell, they are probably really sure now that I was always the fraud!”
Arthur shrinks and stares at the ground. “I- I didn’t mean to do that.”
Merlin closes his eyes for a moment and pulls at his own hair. “Fuck.”
“Merlin, does that mean you don’t want to be with me anymore?” Arthur looks genuinely terrified at the idea. “If - If this means you’re free now -” He holds his breath and shakes his head. “Merlin, I wanted them to see that you’re their rightful king! That you’re worthy to be their leader and that they just need to come inside to see that! I never meant to-” What he really asks is: “Do you not want to marry me anymore?” But Arthur is too emotionally constipated to admit it.
“Please, shut up -” Merlin’s magic shivers beneath his feet. Arthur never meant to take Essetir from him? What a laughable idea! FIVE DAYS ago-!!!!!
“Merlin.” Arthur sounds pleading.
“Oh, for fucks sake, Arthur, yes, I still want to marry you! The sooner the fucking better. I don’t care if you’re the king of Albion or a peasant from the gutter. If you say one more word though, I’m going to deflower you right here in front of the druids and I’m pretty sure that I shouldn’t do that!” He says it breathlessly with probably too many people in earshot. He covers his face. Great. Not only was his magic beyond his control, his stupid mouth was too.
The sword clangs to the ground. Arthur stammers like his brain is complete mush. “HERE?” It’s half a whine and half … something else.
“I blame the prophecy. I absolutely blame the prophecy for creating you and putting you so far away to be my worst enemy and now throne rival and for making you so fucking perfect, fuck.” Merlin sounds angry. Merlin guesses that’s the only emotion his brain can still fathom. He can’t help it, Arthur just is.. everything. And Merlin hates how this is probably fueling the man’s ego.
Arthur laughs nervously. “We, erm… should talk about that later. Not… not here, or now.” He’s completely affected by Merlin’s words too. He knees to grab the sword from the dirt. It’s still a sword, metal and golden with ruins and all. “But.” Arthur hesitates before he meets Merlin’s eyes. “I’m glad we feel the same.”
—-------------------------------------------------
…
The people of Essetir really only needed to take one look inside the castle to fully grasp the change that Arthur brought to their Merlin, which then improved the kingdom.
It takes a couple weeks for Merlin and Arthur to clear up any misunderstandings about their relationship. Arthur’s claim to the throne doesn’t change anything but hit home the fact that they are meant for each other. Word reaches Camelot shortly after the news of their engagement is spread and Arthur and Merlin have to return to Camelot AGAIN to clear up any misunderstandings there as well.
Merlin’s magic flourishes under his new life and so do both Camelot and Essetir.
Morgana hits Arthur once before hugging him and then laughs at him every single day for blushing around Merlin’s smiles.
After the whole body swap - prophecy story is revealed as a fun tavern story, the guard, who had made fun of Arthur when he was still presenting as Merlin, nearly fainted and asked for repositioning for his dishonorable behavior. Arthur thanked him for opening his eyes for the way Camelot treated magic users. It had sounded passive aggressive and it’s sort of how it was intended, but Arthur really is grateful for that experience.
Their marriage is held in the spring, not soon after. And of course, it’s held on the golden circle in Camlan. It’s to show their union and it turns out that the people, after observing the changes that their relationship brought to the kingdom, were even more enthusiastic about it than the happy couple themselves. But only just, since Merlin and Arthur were completely overwhelmed with nerves and anxiety and their love for each other to feel anything else.
Freya became Merlin’s best woman, Gwen became Arthur’s to Morgana’s chagrin. Mordred was made ring bearer. A couple years later Arthur and Merlin will discuss things and make him their heir. His progress with magic and sword fighting make him the ideal candidate. Also, Morgana insisted.
Morgana and Gwen, and Arthur and Merlin invent a system in which they live exchangeably in each kingdom and switch every year around Beltane. They exchange their ideas for the rule and they each get greeted with great cheering every time they switch. That doesn’t exclude visiting each other from time to time.
It really does become a legendary golden age. It’s a happy one at that.
The End.