#queen annis

Every time a guy writes a song, he’s a cowboy, a sailor Playing with the world in his palm like the first pioneer Every time he opens his mouth, it’s a loud movie trailer Clipping every image and sound he thinks proves he was here

One day, Arthur is invited, but he doesn't KNOW magic is legal there, so he obviously freaks out at first.

Arthur: aren't your crime rates skyrocketing when magic is legal?

Annis: *laughing* what? No. When magic is legal, it's not a crime that people commit, so it's much less, silly boy.

Arthur: but ... Doesn't it do harm?

Annis: more good than harm. Killing people is still illegal, so is theft. But you can't steal magic and when you have magic, it's unlikely for your crops to go bad, so people don't starve, which means less people get jealous or vengeful. The harm with magic is of course worse, but the protection is also more effective and crimes done BY magic get punished worse. So... We're regulating it kinda well.

Arthur is, needless to say... Amazed.

Not as amazed, however, as Merlin is. Merlin looks like he's absolutely thriving. Arthur has never seen Merlin smile as much or be as relaxed and he kind of looks like he belongs here. He seems to have a good sense for the quality of magical objects, seems to enjoy people using it for fun and entertainment.

And Arthur... Arthur's not sure what to do with that. He hates it, but...

Arthur: Merlin... I would understand if you wished to stay here. You seem... Happier than you do at home

Merlin: *laughs*, *realises Arthur is serious* i'm not going to leave you

Arthur: but you like it here! You... I've never seen you like this! You belong here! You just -

Merlin: I belong at your side. I just... Admire their lifestyle

Arthur: they are using magic.

Merlin: I know

Arthur: ... If... If magic were legal in camelot, would that make you happy?

Merlin: *freezes*

Arthur: I never thought it could be this peaceful. I feel like if it were legal... Things would change for the better. And you seem to have a good sense for these magic things, so maybe you could help me establish- holy shit, you're on fire

Queen Annis (and Lindsay Duncan) was a literal goddess ✨

Just look at her. Gorgeous shot. It was in a tent yet she still sat there like she was in her throne room.

KING ROUTE (Arthur)

A series of portraits styled after Pathologic 2 dialogue trees.