He didn't realize he'd entered hell the minute his mother remarried. When Hunith marries Uther Pendragon, Merlin is subjected to the man's cruelty, emotional and physical abuse. Just like a doll in a dollhouse, Merlin wears a fake plastic smile. Will someone realize what is going on? Or will Merlin be forced to mask his pain for the rest of his life?-Modern AU

Arthur is well on the way to becoming the type of leader Merlin had always hoped he'd be - one who cares for all of his people. But even so, preparations for Yule festivities along with some unforeseen circumstances result in Merlin taking on too much work. Unfortunately nobody notices until it's almost too late.

"You see, you are going to be the key to Camelot." When Cenred captures Arthur and Merlin, with the intention of interrogating the Prince for information, Merlin takes it upon himself to protect his friend. But when Merlin ends up taking the brunt of the punishment, can Arthur return the favor? serious whump!Merlin