i've been waiting for a fic like this since before s3 even ended, and i'm just so in love with your Arthur's voice here: his confusion and brokenness as well as his allover strength and eventual understanding. the magic reveal was simply fantastic--quite unexpected, as usually it plays out as an accident and in the midst of desperation, but here it just left my heart beating so fast in dreadful anticipation. and i love how much it managed to say about Merlin's role in Arthur's life, not just as his protector but somebody who would see a new Camelot steadfastly alongside him. (and that bit with wanting to take Guinevere's place just made me giggle despite the intensity of the situation XD)

this was really brilliant. ♥