marguerite_26 | Canon Era Arthur/Merlin Recs [A-J]

If you are new to M/A and are looking for a short list of pretty popular older fics, check out the M/A Bookshelf by

phoenixacid

The date preceding each rec is the date the fic was added to this rec list. The date in bold denotes newly added fics. Last updated May 1, 2012. Rec lists are updated once every few months based on the journal recs found under my Merlin Recs tag

Arthur/Merlin Canon and Canon AU Recs
A-J | K-R | S-Z

Arthur/Merlin Modern and Historical AU Recs
A-J | K-R | S-Z

Canon Era Arthur/Merlin Recs [A-J]

Aug 16, 2010 - A Choice is All That's Left Him by

mellacita [R] (4.4k)
Summary: kinkme_merlin prompt:Arthur is captured by an enemy - either a sorcerer or an enemy who has a sorcerer at his bidding. Arthur is forced to watch Merlin's difficult journey to find and rescue him through scrying; through this, Merlin's magic is revealed. Kidnapper tries to use this information against Arthur.

This fic has interesting use of timelines and possible futures. Arthur's struggles are well done. A very interesting read.

Aug 16, 2010 - A Chuisle by

exlibris_tenisu [PG-13] (26k)
Summary: Merlin’s eyes were so wide he felt like they might burst from his head; he could hear his heart in his ears, beating a frantic rhythm against his ribcage, and a low, keening whine escaped his throat. Was Arthur all right? Had Merlin just allowed, through his ineptitude, his prince and his destiny to be killed?

An absolute emotional rollercoaster. It's just perfect for lovers of emo, my heart tore into a thousand pieces in this fic. But a great ride and a great read.

May 1, 2012 - a coin toss and a fork in the road by

xsmoonshine [Nc-17, genderswap] (4k) Merlin/Arthur
Summary: A sorcerer casts a curse to enchant Arthur into a woman's shape, with the only thing that can save his life being to have sex. One of two things happen.

The reader in me love this sort of genderbending fic, with the ‘changed’ person getting used to a new body and those around him (her) having to react. And the writer in me loves that the author took one simple trope and told two versions of this story. (ie: same plot but one with Merlin changed, one with Arthur changed).

May 1, 2012 - A Heavy Heart to Carry by

xthursdaynextx Arthur/Merlin [R] (12k)
Summary: When Merlin is captured and injured, Arthur must face up to his own feelings for his manservant as well as the many secrets he discovers are being kept from him.

When I first got into fandom, Arthur taking care of injured Merlin and ~discovering his worth is the first type of fic I sought out. Funny thing? A bazillion fics later – I still cannot get enough of this trope. This was a lovely read that satisfies that spot that canon always pokes at and leave me wanting – that part of me that screams: “Arthur, look at what is right in front of you and TRULY appreciate it and see Merlin for who he is.” Loved it, lovely h/c.

Aug 16, 2010 - A Long Way to Go Before We Are Truly Divine by Staraflur (47k) [NC-17]
Summary: Merlin is content, but not exactly happy, in Ealdor, so when his mother's friend Gaius' shows up with a tale of dragons under castles and priestesses and an exiled prince, Merlin is thrilled to listen. The reality, however, isn't so great: the priestess is a killer, the prince is a prat, and the dragon sure does have some curious ideas about them. But Gaius is saying it's Merlin responsibility -- destiny, even -- to help Arthur win back his kingdom, and to evade all the forces amassing against him on the way. This would, of course, be a whole lot easier if he could stand to be in the same village as Arthur for enough time for them to stop arguing.

This fic basically takes Season 1 and retells it under the premise of Nimueh shows up at the castle and kills Uther, while Arthur 'escapes' with a few men, Morgana and Gaius. They head to Ealdor to find Gaius's friend Hunith and with the help of Merlin and the towns folk try to find a way to recapture Camelot. Very interesting AU and true to the basic concepts and characterizations of season 1.

Jan 08, 2011- A Miracle of Rare Device by

pepperlandgirl4 [PG-13] (pre-slash) (4k)
Summary: It was easy to lose track of time in that sort of cold. Nothing served as adequate distraction because your mind was constantly concerned with the problem of freezing to death—or rather, not freezing to death.

Very sweet, quiet h/c fic, with an adoring Arthur taking care of a very cold Merlin.

Nov 30, 2010 -A Moment in Ealdor by

piscaria [NC-17] (4k)
Summary: Coda to 1.10. When he accidentally stumbles across a private moment between Merlin and Will, Arthur settles back to watch . . .

This is a bit of PWP that is brilliantly satisfying. It’s the little touches that makes a PWP rise to something that really works for me beyond just... porn. This one has a several of them: great characterisation, fits so well with the feel of that episode, intensity, lovely details and burning hot sex. Great read.

Jan 08, 2011- A Moving Target by

chicaintcheap [NC-17] (7k)
Summary: Canonverse AU. The story of a prince and his assassin.

This is a lovely re-writing of canon, with Merlin having been trained by other magic users to become an assassin and his assignment is to kill Prince Arthur to avenge the purge. Nothing goes as planned, of course, because Merlin is still Merlin and has a heart of gold and sees more in Arthur than just a prat. Neat premise, I liked it a lot.

May 1, 2012 - A Slight Miscalculation by

faithwood
Arthur/Merlin, Merlin/a thing with tentacles [Nc-17] (2k)
Summary: Arthur and Merlin track an evil, murderous creature back to its lair. Now if only Arthur would leave so Merlin can kill it.

First-- Warning: the tentacles thing isn't exactly consensual but it's done with humour and Merlin is under the influence of ~something so he's not complaining. The opening sequence of this made me forget all the bad things ever. It's classic M/A humour that had me almost too giddy to read. The whole fic is silly, over-the-top fun with a bit of tentacle consent-issues to hit all the right buttons.

May 1, 2012 - A Study in Natural Philosophy by Mad_Maudlin Merlin/Arthur [PG-13](13k)
Summary: It wasn't all that unusual for people to hide their daemons; Merlin, however, seems to be taking it a little far.

This is an old fic, I assume written post-S1??? But stumbled on it last night and I fell in love with the idea that every human in this AU had a daemon (basically like a familiar, an animal they were linked to, like it was a part of them). It’s a fascinating AU, loved seeing everyone’s daemon and what it said about their personalities. And loved that Merlin had to hide his familiar because it would say too much.

Aug 16, 2010 - a tree and a bee and a flea, fiddle-dee-dee by

oxoniensis [R] (8k)
Summary: Arthur is a princess. And other things.

An adorable collection of little moments with Arthur and Merlin. I grinned from beginning to end.

Sept 2, 2010 - A Warlock's Worth by

ella_bane [NC-17] (21k)
Summary: When a visiting prince sets his sights on Merlin, Arthur is not amused. A story of love, loyalty, and secrets too-long kept.

This fic is simply lovely. It’s sexy and romantic and really well done. I adore this Arthur and all his jealousy and protectiveness towards Merlin. And the OC (Prince Steffan) is quite delicious, interesting and clever and petty. He understands both Merlin and Arthur too well and plays them perfectly.

May 17, 2011 - Absence, Self from Self by

scribblemoose [R] (10k)
Summary: Sometimes the truth is hard to take. Merlin and Arthur, canon-era, a few months after the end of Series 3.

A great post-S3 canon fic. I really enjoyed this take on Arthur’s reaction to the reveal and the consequences of it (which in this has him banish Merlin). Gwaine was a brilliant secondary character and lightness to a few serious, emotional scenes. Despite the heavy topic, this was a lovely feel-good fic.

Aug 16, 2010 - Accept No Substitutes by

lamardeuse [NC-17] (7k)
Summary: It was extraordinary, Merlin reflected as he pounded down the corridor toward the Great Hall, how often the destiny the Great Dragon constantly spoke of entailed saving Arthur from beautiful women.

I love Merlin in this fic, very conflicted and honourable, wanting to protect Arthur (in this case, from the visiting Lady Mireilla who happens to have a love potion) and struggling with his own desires.

July 23, 2011- Alchemy by

lolafeist [NC-17] (3k)
Summary: Arthur got bit by a (baby) serket. Merlin bathes in a really cold stream. Later, frottage ensues.

Ridiculously hot frotting, with 'too cold' pressed against 'too hot' and my brain melted into a puddle by the end of it.

Feb 10, 2011- All Its Splendid Glory by

lozenger8 [R] (8k)
Summary: In the two years and five months Merlin has known him, Arthur has been enchanted to love people he ordinarily wouldn’t nine times. Merlin simply never expects Arthur to be enchanted to love him.

This is an adorable fic! A nice, clever plot with enchanted!Arthur being hilarious and exasperated!Merlin being exasperated. A very fun read.

Sept 2, 2010 -An Unshakeable Desire by

riventhorn [NC-17] (12k)
Summary: Arthur meets a boy in the rain. A dirty, poor, insolent peasant. A common whore. But Arthur can't stop thinking about him... written for prompt that requested a hooker!Merlin fic set in Camelot.

Warnings: dub-con, some non-con and violence. This is not an easy read, mind the warnings. Riventhorn (who also wrote Leashed) has a talent for this type of victim!Merlin. I find reading someone being completely helpless extremely hard. :/ I did have to skim the non-con. Lalalla... BUT it was such a great story. A Merlin who wanted to believe in Arthur, to believe he was more than the rich prat, more than yet another noble willing to treat him like garbage. And I love seeing Arthur struggle with meeting these expectations and rising to be a better man. Also, hot, hot dub-con if that’s your kink. :D

May 1, 2012 - As Falling Snow by

i_claudia Arthur/Merlin [PG] (5k)
Summary: [Mine] Arthur deals with his issues the only way he knows how: by going hunting in a snowstorm with Merlin and not talking about it.

First, this bit of artwork is stunning: Art Masterpost by steam_pilot. Second, I adore this fic. While it’s a canon future!fic, it carries forward so many of my favourite things about canon. Arthur is stubborn and caught in his own thoughts. He’s frustrated and yet not putting words to what is going on inside his head, instead he broods and trudges through the snow and snaps at Merlin. Merlin snarks and waits it out. It’s very much the canon we know, but there a layer of complication with the years that have passed between them, many things revealed, and many things still left unsaid. A really lovely read.

May 1, 2012 - At the Edge of the Woods by

aprileaf Merlin/Arthur [NC-17] (2.5k)
Summary: Merlin is fascinated by the man with the house at the edge of the woods.
Contains: knotting, orgasm control, elements of D/s, behind held down

YUM! More knotting. Lots of knotting fics popping up lately, and they each bring something a little different to the table. I loved the feel of this one, it was dreamy and soft and yet when it go to the porn it was scorchingly detailed. The intensity of it was brain melting.

Aug 16, 2010 - At Our Best When It's From the Hips by

derryere [NC-17] (13k)
Summary: Merlin goes to a brothel to get rid of that virginity thing and runs into Arthur. From there on, it's all madness.

This is so fabulous, with a young Merlin (by which I mean 'feels' young) trying to figure out if he's gay and angsting about it like only Merlin knows how. Not nearly as cracky as the summary implies. Actually, not cracky at all. Hot and tender and emo.

Aug 16, 2010 - August by

rageprufrock [R] (10k ish? not sure)
Summary: (Merlin, shut up, don't judge me) Merlin looked uncertainly to Arthur. “Have you ever made bread?” he asked. / “How hard could it be?” Arthur said.

Arthur is taken out of his element, as he follows Merlin to Ealdor for Hunith's birthday. His love of Merlin's mom is incredibly endearing, but so is how easily he fits into the unkingly life of Ealdor and loves the simplicity of it all – while still being … Arthur. He and Merlin make an adorable odd couple that everyone can't help but fall in love with.

Aug 16, 2010 - Backfire by

oxoniensis [NC-17] (8k)
Summary: In which there are giant ears, a curious cat, backfiring spells, a stick figure Arthur, some unfortunate truths and some very welcome ones.

This fic is killer funny. There is something about the author's humour that just struck a chord with me and *brusts out laughing* yeah… this fic is just adorable. I giggled and snickered and guffawed my way through it.

Nov 30, 2011 - Before Dawn by

lolafeist Arthur/Merlin [R, plenty of warnings] (17k)
Summary: When Arthur stops his father's men from abusing a Druid captive, he sets into motion a chain of events that will bring him face to face with his destiny.

Regarding the Warnings: Please read the warnings on this fic. In the first part of this fic, there are some definitely uncomfortable bits that highlight Merlin's vulnerability, and I have this helpless/humiliation squick so I was fidgeting while reading. But the fic grows so far beyond that first hard-to-read scene that if you can handle some not happy bits in the first couple scenes (and I’m happy to go into detail if you pm me or leave me a comment), it's so well worth it just to see how both Merlin and Arthur grow from that first very unpleasant meeting. The fic is much more than the sum of the warnings: I love this AU. It has Uther as a warlord, not yet having captured Camelot. Arthur is 16(ish) on his first campaign with his father and overwhelmed by the brutality of it all, particularly the way his father’s men treat one captive in particular. In the events that follow, the reader (and eventually Merlin) can see Arthur’s heart and how he is a different man than his father . The humanity he learns in his adventure with Merlin (even though they are both young and hot headed and stubborn) prepare him to be the one to bring forth a new world.

Aug 16, 2010 - Beltane, That Shall Achieve The Sword and An Exile In Albion by astolat (25K? not sure how long the entire series is)

I do love the universe that astolat creates and as with several of her fics, the focus is not solely on M/A but on Arthur's destiny and how his path is laid before him. It's all very 'big picture' while still being about the characters.

Aug 16, 2010 - Between His Lips by

leashy_bebes[R] (1k)
Summary/Warnings: Originally written for the prompt of 'Merlin wears bright red lipstick'

A wonderful teasing, sexy bit of porn. SO DAMN HOT.

Feb 10, 2011- Blue and Gold by

leashy_bebes [R] (2k)
Summary: Merlin's fingers are clumsy, because it's easy to pilfer extra drinks on feast nights (practically encouraged) and as well as the beer, Arthur had sneaked him a little of the mead from the royal table – much less watered down than what was available elsewhere in the hall.

Looking for something sweet and hot to read with your morning coffee? This is just the thing. Short, but just sizzling with post-feast drunken silliness and sexy and romantic food-smut.

May 1, 2012 - Borderlands by

nympha_alba [NC-17] (11k) Arthur/Merlin
Summary: Canon era AU. When Arthur is separated from his knights by a mysterious fog on the Mercian border, he finds himself trapped in a place that seems to balance between dream and reality. To regain his freedom he must put his trust in one of Lord Bayard's closest men - a man who calls himself Merlin.

This fic is full of gorgeous atmosphere and a clever little plot in an canon-era AU setting. The entire piece (nearly) takes place inside a cottage, where Arthur and Merlin (strangers to each other) are trapped. They’re forced to work together and get along to survive. There are moment of h/c, of domestic life, of UST and truths revealed. On the whole, an excellent read.

Jan 08, 2011- Both Sides by

wordsdiminish [R] (13k)
Summary: Canon AU; essentially a re-write of how The Castle of Fyrien would have played out if fuzzytomato02 and I had any say in the matter, meaning: Merlin kidnapped instead of Gwen, Hunith in peril instead of Elyan, and a whole lot of boy-angst with a side of forest!sex. Yay!

I read this summary and was just bouncing to read this fic. SUCH a good idea and Hunith in peril! And Merlin kidnapped! MY HEART! The author did not disappoint. Well told fic and a great read!

Aug 16, 2010 - Breathe In, Breathe Out (I Love The Way You Move) by

leashy_bebes [NC17] (2k)
Summary/Warnings: Originally written for the prompt of 'Arthur makes Merlin wear a corset laced too tight for him to breathe properly while he fucks him up against a wall', so breathplay, forced feminisation and a smidgen of dub con (stop looking at me like that). Also, historical accuracy? wtf is that?

Breath play, crossdressing, powerplay... ZOMG one of the hottest things I've ever read. fabulous kink!fic

Oct 22, 2010 - Carry it With You if You Want to Survive (Rabbit Heart Remix) by

misswinterhill [PG] (1k)
Summary: Arthur knows, Merlin knows he knows, and this is all getting really a little ridiculous.

this is a remix of Carry it with you if you want to survive by shenniefish. They are fun fics on their own but both fix together are a total of 2k and are very cute reading them both, one after another.

Mar 19, 2011 - Carry that weight by

clevermonikerr [NC-17] (3k)
Summary: Arthur’s crown weighs heavily on him, and Merlin just wants to help.

A lovely post-S3 fic. It makes me itch to see what kind of Arthur we will get in S4, and I have my fingers crossed for one like this, with the stress of being regent heavy on his shoulders.

Jan 08, 2011- Catapult by

lolafeist [PG-13] (6k)
Summary: Merlin gets his first taste of war when he helps Camelot's army fight magical beasts.

A wonderful post-S3 future fic, taking place a year after 3.13. Excellent characterisation and I love the style used here, a series of short scenes with varying points of view made this fic fast paced and tight, without compromising the action and emotion of it. Well done.

Feb 10, 2011- Choices, Orders, Marks and Stains by

agenttrojie [NC-17] (2.5k)
Summary: Arthur follows his father's orders, Merlin takes matters into his own hands, and it doesn't do either of them one bit of good.

This fic comes with dub-con and power play warnings. It’s very raw and hurty, which this author does a great job with. I love the barely controlled restraint that Arthur shows contrasted against Merlin’s brashness.

Feb 10, 2011- Chosen by

archaeologist_d [NC-17, infidelity] (6k)
Summary: Sometimes when all you have is love unrequited, you'll take what you can get.

This fic has so many elements I enjoy, great use of POV where we are deep in Merlin's POV while still understanding Arthur's as much as Merlin's POV allows and no more (as it should be). The tension and emotion in this fic are wonderfully done. Great imagery and just the kind of post-S3 fic I'm desperate for at the moment.

Aug 17, 2010 - Clysterfuck by

bitter_crimson [NC-17] (5k)
Summary: "Okay, so then the syringe must go--" And suddenly there was silence from behind Arthur, and he was almost tempted to turn around to make sure Merlin was still there, when he heard Merlin say in a much fainter voice: "Oh."

ENEMAS!!! Just so we’re clear. What can I say? If you’re tempted to see how anyone could possibly make enemas in any way sexy, then give it a try. The author does an amazing job with this kink. Full-on in character, well written and hot.also... so wrong. Lol.

Jan 08, 2011- Collared by

venivincere [NC-17] (4k)
Summary: Ever since Arthur apologized, Merlin's spent rather more than a healthy amount of time in two pursuits: first, learning that the line between awake-but-will-fall-back-asleep Arthur and awake-and-will-eventually-rise Arthur lay just after irritation but before annoyance, and second, inventing new ways every morning to ride that line like a prize stallion.
Nov 30, 2011 - Come Here To Me by

myashke Merlin/Arthur [NC-17] (20k)
Summary: When Merlin accidentally brings home a magical creature, his relationship with Arthur is forever change

This was a fun fic with lots of Merlin hiding something (badly) antics that could have been taken right from the show. The OC (Pen) is completely endearing, as is Arthur's reaction to him through out.

Aug 16, 2010 - Coming Of Age by

destiny_fic [NC-17] (18448 words)
Summary: "An orgy. The celebrations for Arthur's 21st birthday were a three-day orgy." So yeah, lots of sex...though I'll be honest, and the orgy part is pretty limited, it's mostly just Merlin/Arthur. This is ridiculously sappy porn. I am a sap, I'll admit it...but that'll be pretty easy to see once you've read through this.

I think the author does a great job in the summary of preparing the reader for what's ahead. There is porn and nudity and lots of it. But also a really beautiful love story that makes the porn that much more enjoyable. This isn't a 'and the fairies made everyone shag' fic. There are real emotions and confusion and um, lots and lots of hot, hot sex.

Aug 16, 2010 - Deluge by

suaine [NC-17](50k)
Summary: In the aftermath of Merlin's battle against Nimueh, the rain seems a minor complication, perhaps even a cleansing influence. When the rain doesn't stop, Camelot is pushed to the brink once more. This time, Arthur may be in over his head.

This fic takes place immediately after the end of season 1, where the rain that is pouring down on Merlin and Gaius just never stops. Arthur must figure out his destiny and what Merlin means to it, and save Albion from the … well… deluge. A great character journey for Arthur.

Aug 16, 2010 - Doubled Over With the Hunger of Lions by

nightanddaze [NC-17] (23k)
Summary: There's something in the air, pulling them together and pushing the kingdom apart.

The fairies made them do it! Yes, it's a forced bonding fic of sorts and OMG! So hot and delish because they fight it and they give in and they fight and they misunderstand each other. *pets the pretty angst* and yeah, hot like burning and a lovely, lovely fic.

Feb 10, 2011- Everything, Always by

dreamdustmama [NC-17] (6.5k)
Summary: Arthur discovers Merlin's magic, but no matter how hard he tries he can't tell him that he knows - even when he starts having nightmares about Merlin's death.

An AMAZING reveal fic. Incredibly in character and realistic. Arthur here is heartbreaking and beautiful. I loved it.

Aug 16, 2010 - Externality by

zarathuse [NC-17] (10k)
Summary: Because, really, why wouldn’t the slash dragon’s fire create a slash sword?

Ok, now this is a bulletproof kink of mine. When Faynia pointed me here saying Arthur felt it when Merlin polished his sword, I RAN to this fic. Because, yeah. Never is that not hot. But this charming fic is actually much more that that one scene and I enjoyed every bit of it.

May 17, 2011 - Feel Your Pain by

myashke [NC-17] (7k)

This is a post-S3 fic, with Merlin casting a spell to ‘take on’ Arthur’s pain so he can win a tournament, which is really such a Merlin thing to do. *g* fantastic dynamic between them, and the positive aspects of the spell are so hot.

Mar 19, 2011 - Few Words Suffice by

myashke [NC-17] (6k)
Summary: for the prompt: "Arthur strains something training the knights so merlin has to rub some salve/ointment on the area.”

Delicious and so much fun. More medical kink that hit all my buttons. I really love myashke’s take on these characters.

Sept 2, 2010 - Finding Home by

riventhorn [NC-17] (8k)
Summary: Written for kinkme_merlin prompt: When Gaius retires, a new physician takes over, one that quickly kicks Merlin out of his room and takes it for himself, Arthur finds Merlin sleeping in the stables..and it's winter.

HURT/COMFORT! This is such a wonderful ‘Arthur must take care of Merlin’ fic. If the image of Arthur finding a cold, shivering Merlin and wrapping him up warm and feeding him makes you squee, you are going to love this fic. I did.

May 17, 2011 - For the Good of the Kingdom by

magog_83 [PG] (12k)
Summary: Merlin returns from his sojourn with the druids in the company of a man who is criminally handsome. Arthur reacts in the mature and reasonable fashion you would expect.

Fabulously funny fic. A nice light read, that leaves a smile on your face from start to finish. I also have a thing for jealous!Arthur and ridiculous in his obliviousness!Arthur so this hit the spot just right.

Nov 30, 2011 - For the Love of Camelot by anon @ KMM Merlin/Arthur [NC-17, warnings] (10k+ ? not sure)
Summary: After the ceremony where Arthur is crowned Crown Prince of Camelot he is taken by Uther to a private room where he must submit to receiving a Prince Albert piercing as a secret, traditional part of the crowning ceremony

This is a really delicious kink!fic. I love the amount of detail that went into the humiliation of having a piercing done their with no time to prepare, in front of an audience. And then from there the pain and emotions that Arthur dealt with (tried to hide) while healing. Very well done. It’s a bit unfortunate that it’s still sitting on KMM in messy comment snippets. Not my favourite way to read a fic, which is why I rarely rec anything long on KMM. But this one is a lovely exploration of a rare kink. Not to be missed.

Feb 10, 2011- For the Weary by

lady_ragnell [PG] (5k)
Summary: When Arthur becomes King, Merlin overworks himself.

A sweet, romantic fic where Merlin is literally killing himself to do everything and be everything for Arthur now that Arthur is king. Cue a healthy spoonful of H/C.

Aug 16, 2010 - Four Times Merlin Cock-Blocked Arthur, and One Time He Didn't by

oxoniensis [R] (3690 words)
Summary: He doesn't mean to the first time. Truly. It was an honest mistake.

Short little fic that is just fun, fun, fun. Merlin's obliviousness to what is happening is pure win. Charming.

Nov 30, 2011 - From The Ashes by

randomslasher Merlin/Arthur [NC-17, warnings] (42k)
Summary: When Merlin uses magic to save Arthur’s life, he is condemned to death, and Arthur is too late to save him. But when the grief-stricken prince, along with Morgana and Gwen, journeys to Ealdor to return Merlin’s ashes, a series of strange events leads them to believe the warlock may not be as dead as they thought.

I'm an absolute sucker for this kind of fic. Love rolling around in the angst that I know is going to get resolved. (thank you, spoilery smexy art) I also have a thing for guilt-ridden!Arthur who discovers gasp!toolate! that Merlin has magic. I also loved the S1 feel of this whole fic. Brings me back to happy times when I actually thought there was going to me a reveal in midway through S1. Very enjoyable read that hit lots of my buttons.

Nov 30, 2010 -Grave Mistake by

kick_flaw [NC-17] (7k)
Summary: For the merlinarthurfqf prompt #79: The ghost of Arthur's creepy great, great uncle starts following Merlin around and making lewd comments. Fortunately — or unfortunately — only Merlin hears him most of the time.

Poking around the other day and found a Kick_flaw M/A I hadn’t read!!! This is a wonderful, hilarious tale of Merlin being haunted by a (surprisingly endearing) dirty old man who whispers into Merlin ear all day long and makes him mildy insane and have a perma-blush. Adorable fic.

Nov 30, 2011 - Harmonia Mundi by

pen_rabbit [R] (43k) Merlin/Arthur
Summary: Music has always been the centre of Merlin’s reality, and the idea of silence is unimaginable. But when Camelot is deafening, Arthur is distracting and the dragon is utterly unhelpful, will his gift turn out to be a blessing or a curse?
Link to the art masterpost by

juvenine
Link to the music masterpost by

gfeather

I didn’t get to enjoy the accompanying music for this fic while I read because I read the fic on a print-out but the art is really lovely.
I love the premise of this fic, that Merlin hears the world differently from everyone, and how that explains how his magic is different (more powerful) as he is able to manipulate those sounds. The language the author uses to describe the song of the world is incredibly beautiful from water, to trees, to people. I think I will always think of Gaius as forest-green and Morgause as waterfall. I admit, I’m not a fan of being re-walked through canon, but I appreciate that going through the seasons were essential to immersing the reader into this world that Merlin lives in and interacts with. The seasons were mostly cut into short summaries – told through the filter of the ‘song’ the experience had and how Merlin whispered to that song to solve the problem. But the story really took off once we got to see the artists post-S3 world and I was up way too late last night enjoying every minute of it. Lovely read.

Aug 16, 2010 - His Own Hand by

mpoetess or The past tense version [NC-17] (12k)
Summary: In which Merlin is punished for saving his life for the thousandth uncredited time, and arguing with Uther is the stupidest thing Arthur's done until the next thing.

Thank you Merlin fandom for seducing me and leading me back to madpoetess. *twirls* First - spanking! FTW!!! Hot like burning. But the best thing? I have not laughed so much during a fic since... God, I don't remember when. I had tears (of laughter) running down my face from Uther! Uther! OMG! And yet this was still somehow IC for everyone, Arthur, Uther and Merlin all so damn well done. I'm keeping this one for when I need something to brighten my day.

Nov 30, 2010 -How It Will Be by

agenttrojie [PG] (1k)
Summary: Prompt: Using Samhain to also symbolise the end of Uther's rule and the beginning of Arthur's, which includes hiding in corn fields.

A super short fic that is brilliantly written, not a word wasted and all the intensity and emotion that a truly skilled author can pack into a 1k fic. Set in the days before Uther’s death, while Arthur waits and worries about the kind of king he will be. Amazing fic.

Feb 10, 2011- I’ll Teach You To Say Please by

nu_breed [NC-17] (1.3k)
Summary: Arthur tries to slow things down a little. Merlin has other ideas.

Steaming hot porn with delicious possessive!Arthur and wanton!Merlin. nnnnngh!

May 1, 2012 - How Lucky You Are by

hermette Arthur/Merlin [NC-17] (3k)
Content: underage (Merlin is 13) and hints of D/s
Summary: There’s a lot Merlin needs to learn.

My comfort zone with underage is usually around 15. So... Merlin is 13 in this. What made this work for me is being in Arthur’s POV and feeling his panic and indecision at Merlin’s age and innocence, together with Merlin’s naivete at what his curiosity was doing to Arthur. I was with Arthur all the way as he squirms and forgets to breathe and holds back on going further through this perfect balance of wrong and hot. That balance is a little different for everyone. So. Click with care, but it has my two thumbs up and begging for more. soon.

Mar 19, 2011 - In the Spaces Between by

neathsunnyskies [R] (16k)
Warnings: Major character death and minor character deaths aplenty (including a stillborn child); violence; the briefest allusion to rape; descriptions of self-harm; suicidal thoughts; angst; unhappily-ever-after
Summary: Written for this prompt over at the kink meme: Arthur/Merlin, Merlin dies. Alternatively, Arthur is so stricken with grief that he goes on a mad quest looking for a sorcerer to bring Merlin back to life. When it finally happens, Merlin is horrified because it's truly impossible to just bring someone back to life like that and he's fairly certain he's some kind of half-dead abomination. Arthur doesn't care. Bonus points: This is how Merlin lives forever waiting for the Once and Future King!

Mind the warnings on this fic, it’s not a happy tale. The writing is really beautiful, sparse and rich with imagery and emotion but it was not an easy read. I wept through the first half and ached, like someone had gut-punched me, through the rest of it. Not the type of fic you see often in this fandom, but it was brilliantly done – even if it left me breathless and scrambling for something happy to chase away my shivers.

Jan 08, 2011- In the River by

nympha_alba [PG-13] (500)
Summary (and prompt): Arthur watches Merlin bathe in a river and is fascinated by the contrast of black body hair on white skin.

This fic is a brilliant 500 words. Wonderfully written, beautiful fic. I'm totally stalking this author HARD.

Aug 16, 2010 - In Time Of Trial by

shinetheway [NC-17] (36807 words)
Summary: Uther fears his son's power, and Merlin has helped Arthur flee to escape imprisonment. Now the two of them must fight to regain Arthur's rightful place in Camelot.

A wonderful plotty fic about Arthur's destiny. Very moving and heart warming in that way you feel when Arthur is the man you want him to be and Merlin stands proudly at his side. Excellent read. One of my favourites of this type of fic.

Aug 16, 2010 - In Want of a Wife by

syllic [NC-17] (40k +)
Summary: When Merlin first hears that Arthur has been betrothed, his ribs pull inwards with an odd little hitch, and he only allows himself a second—which he needs in order to coordinate spinning in place without falling on his face—before he’s running to Arthur’s chambers.

This fic takes place in the year of Arthur's Betrothal to OFC, and all the strange things that happen therein. A beautiful, romantic look at Merlin's and Arthur's reaction to this year of 'freedom' with the shadow of the inevitable wedding hanging over their heads.

July 23, 2011- Instruction to Make it Perfect by

kick_flaw [NC-17] (5k)
Summary: Written for the KMM prompt: Arthur thinks that he is a sex GOD. Merlin is dubious and not impressed. Chaos ensues.

This Arthur is hilarious in his overconfidence and bravado, and just enough of a tender underbelly to give me everything I need in an Arthur. And Merlin – cheeky and brilliant. Fabulous porn.

Mar 19, 2011 - Insubordination by

tourdefierce [NC-17] (1.6k)
Summary: MAGICAL REVEAL PORN.

Merlin is such a BAMF is this fic, I was totally with Arthur thinking, yes, please. Up against a tree, however you want me. UNF! Great Merlin, great Arthur and hot angry!sex.

Aug 17, 2010 - It Happens Like This by

hermette [NC-17] (1.6k)
Summary: Original Prompt: Arthur/Merlin, Knights/Merlin, gangbang. Arthur likes to watch other guys do Merlin. When the knights go on expeditions (war/rescue/hunting/missions, whatever), Arthur likes to pimp Merlin out to the men and watch them use him. Can be PWP, can be angst, just make it filthy and hot plz!

Really, really filthy smut. While ‘gangbang’ is a squick of mine (even the term makes my bile rise), I loved this dirty, dirty fic. Merlin is not degraded, he is fully consenting and everyone seems to enjoy the fact that Arthur decided to share for a moment. Do read the warnings, though. :D

Nov 30, 2010 -It's Not the Time or the Place by

picayochan [PG13] (4k)
Summary: Arthur wages a one-man war against an enchanted tree. Merlin thinks it's a bad idea. He's right.

The summary doesn’t do this fic justice. Neither does looking at the word count. It’s a truly fantastic read, with great characterisations and heartbreak and romance in one simple setting that goes terribly wrong.

Nov 30, 2010 -It’s Only a Flesh Wound by

misswinterhill [PG] (3k)
Summary: Merlin underestimates how sharp Arthur’s sword in and slices his hand open, right up the arm. Arthur is definitely not worried by this, no, not at all.

OH!!! This fic is the kind I might read over and over on days I need something to curl up to. It’s warm and sweet and full of emotion. The fic is told in Merlin’s POV just after he sliced his hand open, and the author just nails the POV. Through Merlin’s state of shock from the cut and blood loss, we feel how truly dangerous the moment is, how panicked Arthur is at Merlin’s injury and the tenderness between them that never make to his words even if his actions are screaming it. Really, really well done fic.

Arthur/Merlin Canon and Canon AU Recs
A-J | K-R | S-Z

Arthur/Merlin Modern and Historical AU Recs
A-J | K-R | S-Z

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oh, these are GORGEOUS. *_____*

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Canon Era Arthur/Merlin Recs [A-J]

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