Hidden Light by Anonymous* (PG-13)

[unbidden-truth.livejournal.com]

Since we have posting access til the 6th, I'm going to rec a few more fics before then. Up first is a fic that was just posted today for merlin_holidays

Fandom: MERLIN
Pairing: Merlin/Arthur Pendragon
Length: 9495
Author on LJ: destina
Author Website: AO3
Why this must be read:

This fic was such a joy to read from the beautifully captured moments, the quiet intimacy between the characters to the gorgeous setting and vivid descriptions to the wonderful writing.  Merlin's devotion to Arthur is so steadfastly evident, much like canon but it was Arthur's characterization that completely stole my breath.  He was everything I had imagined him to be one day as king.  Each one of his interactions with Merlin revealed a little bit more about him.   If there could be a perfect canon winter first time M/A fic this would be definitely be in contention.

Summary: During a winter hunting trip, Merlin finds he still has much to learn about Arthur.
Excerpt:

"Merlin curled up on his nest of blankets, near enough to Arthur to see his breath ghosting white in the chill air. There were some things expected of kings; pavilions with all the trappings were one of them, and an entourage which stretched a mile was another. Arthur was not that kind of king. With his men in the woods, he often sprawled on the bare ground under a clear sky and was content.

In sleep, Arthur's face was free of the stress of daily rule, and the visage of the young prince Merlin first knew surfaced again. Merlin suspected Arthur had never known a truly carefree day in his life, but once, he had been a boy who did not yet know the weight of kingdoms and villains. Perhaps his damp hair had curled then around his forehead, just as it did now; perhaps he had longed for his mother to push it away.

Under the cold, shining stars, Merlin looked his fill, and indulged a moment of acceptance for the love he had borne Arthur these many years.

As if Arthur could sense his feelings, he opened his eyes slowly, and met Merlin's gaze. They stared at each other in silence, until Arthur's arm emerged from the pile of blankets and furs. With one hand, he tugged at Merlin's shoulder, urging him closer.

"For warmth," Arthur said, his voice hoarse and too loud in the quiet woods."

Hidden Light