gilli_annTitle: Forever
Rating: G
Pairing: Arthur/Merlin
Character/s: Merlin, Arthur
Summary: Permanent ties bind Merlin to Arthur
Warnings: None
Word Count: 150
Prompt: 451 Ropes
Author's Notes: Canon-ish drabble-and-a-half
The slim ropes shimmered and shone, glinting in the dim room. Merlin could see them as clear as day — strong, enduring and meant to last forever. Of his own magical making, they were insubstantial, ordinarily invisible, but unbreakable, and they tied him to Arthur, and Arthur to him, for all eternity. As he moved quietly around the room while Arthur lingered over some parchment, scratching his head and grumbling, Merlin could see the golden link between the two of them. He sensed its gentle tug on his heart, telling him that all was well.
Many long years later, their bond endured, untarnished. It hadn't even frayed. That was what sustained Merlin. That was why he held on, secure in the knowledge that Arthur would eventually return. The gleaming gossamer strands stretched across the miles, through the veil between worlds, tying him permanently to his once, future, and eternal king.
