Merlin Big Bang Rec

On Tethered Wings by thuri Merlin/Arthur [R] (43k)
Summary: A dragon lord who doesn't know his power, a prince who doesn't know his heritage, and a broken king who doesn't know their destiny. What will happen, when the dragonriders of Camelot break free their bonds, and their mounts rise up once more?
ART by lukita and ART by randomslasher

This fic is an absolute gem. I don't know this author, but I peeked at the art and knew I had to read. (though the art is spoilery, so fair warning). I love the world building done in this fic, not a re-telling of canon - but a drastically different universe set during canon time. From Merlin and Arthur's very first meeting, and Merlin's entrance into Camelot we see that this is not at all 'our' canon. It's brilliantly done, with great depth to this 'tamed' dragon verse with lots of unexpected twists and I'm completely in love with it. And the art, both sets - are beautifully done.