After something terrible occurs, Arthur, Gwen, Gwaine, and Lancelot take their turns in protecting their protector. Merlin's the one in trouble, now, and it's up to them to save him.
"Only the person Merlin loves most can wake him." The girl took on the air of someone who held the upper hand over their adversaries. "Only a kiss from the person he desires most can break the curse."
"Why?" Mordred questioned, "Why lay such a curse on him and offer the chance of a cure?"
But Arthur knew the answer even as she said it. "Merlin desires no one. It isn't within his capability to."
Takes place after 5 x 6, The Dark Tower
and we pretend that Elyan never died
Loads of angst with a happy ending.
General Audiences
M|M
W|W
Arthur/Merlin
Gwen/redeemed Morgana
Merlin/Dead Lancelot
Dead Uther :)
Also posted on AO3